tushanshu_logs | if distress of mind befalls a wise man

[Enjolras has been avoiding almost everyone from his life in Paris, it is true, but among the friends he has made here, or seems to have made here, who do not know him well yet, well, he is finding that their company is not so unbearable as that. There are so many other things that can be spoken of than the obvious, and awkward ones that come to mind. He is turning now, giving Richard a small nod as he recognizes the other man, and stepping closer, absently stroking a blond ball of fluff in his had.

Yes, he's kept the tribble from Marius's clinic. He hasn't taken it inside, since that seems to be begging for trouble, but he was able to fashion a sort of cage for it outside and, when he is there himself, has taken to carrying it around. That much at least is a comfort he can allow himself, reasonably speaking even after what he knows he's done.]

I HAD hoped we might speak again, Monsieur Richard. Is everything well with you?

[Richard glances over the tribble; it is hard not to smile on seeing one, even knowing the threat they are to this ecosystem. At least Uzmek has done his (her? Richard still doesn't know how to check) share of eliminating the creatures. He does not say a thing about how Enjolras pets the tribble.

Richard comes to a halt before Enjolras] Yes, all is well. I have been ordered out of the house on a break—not something I am accustomed to. [Kings are not usually ordered about by the lords that are supposed to obey them.] Are you taking your friend on a walk? [He nods his head towards the tribble.]

Essentially. [Enjolras is ducking his head a little, because the fact he has bonded with what is essentially a purring ball of fur is incredibly silly but...] I cannot see bringing him inside, Not with the way they multiply, but...they have a certain charm, these little creatures. If there is a way to stop the breeding but keep them...I would not mind so much, I think.

Ordered out on a break?

[That gets a laugh because Enjolras has experienced the same.] Combeferre has done the same to me, always at the busiest of times when I cannot possibly stop. You have my sympathies.

An associate of mine mentioned that she would be trying something, so perhaps that is not an impossibility. [While he isn't one to entertain false hopes, Richard knows Wanda's abilities are impressive in scope. He thinks she really could be capable of such a thing.]

[Richard's smile widens.] Then you understand. I know Asbel means well, but I don't know how he expects me to relax when there is so much work to be done.

Well, then perhaps I will be in luck on that. [Enjolras absently continues petting his new 'friend', focusing more on Richard and letting the action simply soothe him.]

The perils, in my case, of my dearest friend being a doctor, I think. [And being, possibly, the one person who can tell Enjolras what to do and make it an order if he needs to.] It always seems to come at the worse moments for accomplishing things.

What is it you are doing here then? If I may inquire of course." [Enjolras is really not of the impression that kings do very much so...]

[His expression becomes wry.] Healers and doctors can be particularly stubborn with their views on others' health. Perhaps it is because they know they are right. [Richard never has an easy time talking Cheria into prioritizing his soldiers over him and this is a constant problem for him. That an heirless king insists on having his soldiers healed first is a constant problem for Richard's retainers.

Richard smiles easily.] Of course. There are a few things; I have been working in the gardens set up by one of our own, but that leaves much time, so I have been assisting in the fields and with some ownerless pack beasts my team came across. The main body of working through the archives of the network for information is complete, but I can't help but feel I should go over it one last time for anything I have missed. [The idea nags at him and makes him want to go over every word that has been ever posted to make absolutely certain that he is missing nothing that is available to him.

And this is how Richard overworks himself into going days without sleep.]

Or they believe they are right. [Enjolras has been on that side of an argument as well.] And given that they typically can pull out fact to support it... [He's rolling his eyes good naturedly enough, and it does make him miss Combeferre a little. He can't face him, or any of the others just now, and he knows that only too well, but even so.]

[As far as Enjolras and convincing the others to prioritize, well, only look at his death to see how far some of them would go for him, he supposes, thinking of Grantaire a moment, and wishing they might have spent more time together here. But that is past of course, so he will not force himself to dwell just now.]

Pack beasts? I'd heard nothing about...much of what the other teams have come to find, only that they were beneficial to the health of TuVishan in general. I need to catch up myself, I fear. [Better than his moping around sulking, he reasons. I have had a hard time finding things to do, but then I have not actually looked much. he has to admit, frowning. It does sound like a great deal of work. If you would like some help, perhaps... I do not know much about the archives but I was reading law in Paris, and it meant a great deal of absorbing information quickly. I would not like to see you exhausted, though I must admit, I am surprise to hear of a king who actually works. ... [Then he's pausing, snickering a moment.]

Well, I have just turned things sufficiently awkward.

Edited 2013-07-21 22:10 (UTC)

[Medics get their way; on that, they are certainly in accord. He listens to all Enjolras has to say before answering, attendant to the expressions as they shift. It is surprising to hear what Enjolras has to say about monarchs. The institution is not opposed, of course; in the Republic of Strahta, Richard may be very popular personally, but he knows very well the issues Strahtans have with the feudal system in Windor. But not even the Strahtans have ever suggested that a king does not work, just that rulers should be chosen by the people instead of by lineage.

Richard does not hesitate in his response. He smiles easily when he answers.] Little enough information about the work of the other teams has come out at this point. But help is always welcome—if you do not object to working with a king. [A little teasing, to show that no offence is taken and no awkwardness need exist.] I admit, I'm curious what kind of world it is where your kings can avoid work and still keep their thrones.

You, my liege, [And Enjolras gives those words an especially ironic emphasis here, mostly because this is not a form of address he would ordinarily use.] seem to be a most different king from those that we have had in France, especially if you ask such things as that. [And Richard is getting an approving nod for that quality too, for the fact that he wishes to know.]

Of course I do not object to working with a king like you. So many of ours are, or have been tyrants, feeding off of the backs of the people, especially the poor for so long now that the system has been ingrained and continues unchecked in many places. ...If I had a copy of Rousseau's works it would be easier to explain some of the theories for how the system comes today. I would say ruling by fear is one, and force another to begin with.

It is amazing what men will do to those they view as beneath them. Amazing and horrible at the same time. But there are ways to hold that power, yes.

[Richard's smile twists wry at that ironic address—he knows there is no need to tell Enjolras that he much prefers being addressed by name here—and he considers what Enjolras says. Tyrants, yes, and rule by fear and force . . . That is not difficult for Richard to imagine in the slightest.]

I think I take your point. My own uncle, had he been firstborn—I dread to imagine what that would have meant for my country and my people.

[Richard wants to say that it troubles him, that he thinks there is a fault in the monarchy if someone so unsuited to rule could so easily have it. But he hesitates to do so, for it is that which troubles him most deeply that he tends to keep closest to his heart. He is too accustomed to carefully presenting himself as a confident leader to counter those who doubt him for his age that he forgets he could speak freely here without worry for his political position.]

[Richard has not forgotten about what Enjolras said about his own death and that of his friends. Richard feels a pang of sympathy for those people drawn into a conflict because their rulers are so unsuited for the role. And Richard tries to find a better way to phrase his thoughts.] I have considered at times if there are more peaceful methods than violent revolution change the means by which rulers are chosen and safeguard the people from such tyranny. Nothing can be done without the people's will, but in times of peace and prosperity, the will for change is often lacking.

You are conscientious. [It strikes Enjolras again, as he has never considered in life, that there are leaders out there like La Marque, who wish to do the right thing for and by their people. Those worlds must be vastly different, and while he does not entirely understand how that can happen, it is somewhat comforting.]

There need to be more like you in any leadership role I should think. Even here, I think the Empress could use a bit of direction in the points you make. It may be better for us all. As far as how leaders may be chosen...there can be revolutions without war, I think, or violence. A revolution of ideas, of goals.

The problem is, as you say, sparking such a thing.When a people are content, they miss so very MUCH that it would seem impossible to even mention the idea.

As for a people's will being needed? [This is where Enjolras has to snort a while.] You would not believe how often that is disregarded in everything. Our revolution of 1830 demonstrates that will, I think, but also how men in power can subvert and ignore their will as needed. Depressing, really.

[Richard makes no comments on Enjolras's judgements of Richard as a ruler. They are too high compliments for him, he thinks: he caused too much suffering to deserve a word of praise. All he can do is attempt to atone for what he has done and secure a safe future for his people.

The guilt is something he keeps to himself, however. He just smiles lightly, gracious, and answers the rest of it.]

[His expression becomes grim.] I have misspoken. It too easy to imagine such a thing, when there are precedents in our neighbours and even in our own history. Whoever controls the military controls the country [fuck you uncle cedric], and many militaries are trained to serve the rulers, not the people. Abuse of power is far from unheard of, and my people have suffered for the petty greed and jealousies of highborn men. [The hand on his scabbard tightens around it, and his right hand clenches at his side.] I have also seen populations in such states who struggle so much for warmth and food that revolution becomes near-unimaginable for them. [Guess whose country he is thinking about, Chancellor Eigen. He is not going to shed tears if that particular government gets overthrown, except that Fendel's citizens will suffer even more in the course of it.

Richard suppresses a soft sigh and makes his hands loosen. Between Dalen and Asbel, Richard knows, he has command over Windor's three greatest military forces. He could do anything he wanted, as long as he kept the loyalty of those two men, and the lesser lords would be helpless against him.] I should say instead that one should not act without the people's will. There is suffering enough in the world without such high-handedness. I am grieved to hear your people know that suffering so sharply.

Edited 2013-07-23 00:35 (UTC)

[The reality is that Enjolras would still likely find a ruler, in any position that directly applied to a situation he has seen, something to be judged and criticized and likely overthrown, but in the phiilosophical and abstract senses, he can see the attitude that Richard displays is, at least, far more beneficial to anything that the Bourbons have done, and better than Louis Phillipe the fat headed pear himself. So that is something.]

You could speak of much of France when you describe those other states. [Enjolras's face is grim, his words certainly sad as he remembers himself.] They say that our revolution failed the second time because the people were not willing to involve themselves but how could we have expected it? They may have joined us once before, but in our last revolt, things were different. There was not quite so much to lose with most of the support behind a revolution. When it came to 1832...Well, our poor had far more to lose, little that they could see to gain, and had spent two more years beaten down into the cobblestones. I suppose I should not have been surprised that things had gone the way they did.

[If he had gotten Combeferre, Jehan and Feuilly out, or even one of them, if he had done things differently before the barricade, had better foresight as to organizing things that day, perhaps it would be different.]

It is so odd, so tragic that I could have done better to stand by the people than I did. I will not say that striking up rebellion was wrong, nor that I am the reason my friends died, but had I played my role in things, or understood that role better, things still may have been different. I thought I was to be Saint-Just. [He sighs at that, picturing the images of that man and his involvement in the Republic and filled with admiration for him even after all else.] But as it stood, being Saint-Just is perhaps what made things at our barricade end all the more badly. Hard to say I suppose.

But no, you are right on that second point. It is possible, but should not be done. I quite agree on that. It grieves me still to know that with our deaths, what chance is there for our people now? It is the way things were to go, I do believe in that, and could have done no differently in my actions, but perhaps I still should have. Had I done but a bit better...

[Enjolras is saddened by the idea itself. He does not think he failed in everything necessarily, but the knowledge that he could have improved, that he might have left someone behind in life to carry on the work of Les Amis, or acted with more restraint upon the barricade, may have carried the message on to someone else, one of those men who walked away, pricks at him now, and Enjolras is unused to such feelings as guilt or doubt so that these are strange for him. ]

Well, there is hope someone in the future may still manage to do differently.

Edited 2013-07-23 02:20 (UTC)

[Richard frowns as he listens to it all. Enjolras seems to carry such a weight of the world—such pain, and worse than the desire to change it, that desire and a terrible loss.] I fear your Combeferre may disapprove of me now; I didn't bring up a subject so heavy and touched by memory.

There are many from Earth here. Do you have word of France's future?

I do not think he would disapprove at that. [Enjolras shrugs a little.] And true, you did not. Perhaps we should find better topics in the future. Although yes. Sixteen years after our deaths, there was the second republic. I have not heard much beyond it but imagine being there for it! I would have treasured it nearly as much as I would have the first.

[Richard is trying to form a picture of the world Enjolras describes with the incomplete pieces: tyranny, kings, suffering, Saint Just and revolution.] A second republic? This has been a difficult struggle back and forth towards republic for your France if monarchy has retaken it once. The Strahtans are always quick to sing the praises of democracy and the flaws of a feudalism they would never accept again—particularly to me, in the most polite and pointed of manners.

Ah yes, that is a long and involved story. [And one Enjolras is only too eager to discuss. Seriously. Let's not even consider his feelings about Saint-Just. We did gain a republic, our first, in 1789 against the royal houses who abused their power and acted as nothing but tyrants to the people.

Our revolution was, well, the years that followed the establishment of our republic became quite intense. Many of the men who had served to help establish it sought the end of all who were, or had been aristocracy once. This happens, I suppose, when a people is ground too far into the dirt and finally given the chance to rise. Of course they would behave like the animals they had been treated as, they knew no better. There was so much pure hope, [Enjolras sounds incredibly wistful, perhaps a bit in love here.] Pure hope and pure light, but in the face of what had happened, the hate that had been fostered...there was no chance such a thing could happen without any bloodshed, and without the new governing body, our Comittee for Public Safety being, and becoming paranoid.

In the end, so many of the leaders who had stood for France found they had stepped outside of their goals, brought things too far to set right, encouraged so much violence. The leaders of the movement were executed themselves... With the same guillotines used for aristocrats. They called their offenses crimes against the state.

[Enjolras pauses a moment here, lost,perhaps,in his thoughts of what had been.] Robespierre, Saint-Just [There is definitely a note of admiration in Enjolras's voice when it comes to Saint-Just, so vibrant and young, and alive, so much the man that Enjolras has tried to be throughout his life], and many others were executed in 1795. We had a directory for a time, men chosen from a list sent by those who had been elected to power, and then...

[Here is where the hint of disgust creeps into Enjolras's voice, and becomes more than a hint as his eyes flash with something like anger, disgust, incredulity and the kind of hate that is plainly terrifying.]

Then there was Buonoparte. Not even one of our own who rode in to help others overthrow what we had, which was at least something if not completely right yet. He settled in and overtook everything..."

[There is a brief pause here as Enjolras mutters something under his breath, in French, indicating exactly what he thinks of Napoleon, and of the leader who followed him next. At least the moment is over quickly, though that look in his eyes and the quietly seething hint of anger in his voice remain as he continues.]

And after that? Another king.

Edited 2013-07-24 08:34 (UTC)

[Richard listens along attentively, piecing it together with the rest that he knew. The allusion to Saint-Just made before seems to have more sense to it now; he can see what a symbol Saint-Just must be for a hopeful revolutionary, and he can imagine why modelling after one such could bring disaster.

But to turn on the aristocracy like that, well, Enjolras is right. It is not a surprise. His own concerns for Fendel are of the violence revolution may breed. Richard doesn't let himself think about the people he loves coming under an axe for reason of birth: Dalen, Asbel, even Cheria for her relationship with Asbel. But the logic there is more than that of emotion. Cedric had to remove Richard because Richard was next in line, but he could never have merely imprisoned Richard or his father, just as Richard could not have possibly spared Cedric's life on taking back the throne. Living royals are symbols for the discontent. Living nobles do not easily surrender power and wealth. Bloody as it is, Richard has no difficulty seeing the practicality in such violence. Nor is he surprised that such bloodiness would eventually turn back on those who dealt it out.

Buonoparte took advantage of a power vacuum—also no surprise, not after seeing the way that his neighbouring states or even the lords that serve him vie for control when there is a hint of weakness in the power of other nations. Richard may regret what he did with Lhant, and he does not begrudge the Strahtans for trying to claim it, but he also knows that they only dared remain there after Cedric's death because they thought Richard too weak to take it back. There is always someone to gain from the conflict of others—prosperity stolen through the misery of another instead of shared between all. It is not the kind of world that Richard swore to build when he was a boy. It is a world he wants to strive to avoid.

And Enjolras has given other dates, for revolution and failed revolution. All together, Enjolras's France seems to have gone through a great deal of succession and violence and pain. No, it isn't surprising that an uprising failed. How could it not? All this must be exhausting.

Richard bows his head for those losses. Pragmatic only out of necessity, Richard is not a person capable of hearing such a tale without feeling pain: pain for the aristocrats, pain for the commonfolk, pain for a nation that has seen their ideals twisted and their hopes broken after being so close to making them real.]

You and your people have my sympathies. I hope that your Second Republic, at least, knows more of peace and less of suffering for a people who has suffered so much already.

As do I. I have...almost not dared to attempt learning what comes next. In case it has gone ill. [Enjolras has ducked his head a little here, almost ashamed that he cannot stand to know. Would it not be better to just have the news and take it? Still...]

I...appreciate your listening to...all of that. There are so many parts in which, well. I will not say that either side was entirely in the right. It was a confusing and odd time, at any rate. And full of so many pieces. Perhaps it serves as something of a cautionary tale.

[Enjolras smiles a bit here, pondering. ] Something along the lines of being careful that the ones who achieve power through whatever ends are not the ones left soley in command of that power. It would turn to cruelty too quickly. I would not, for example, have placed myself anywhere near leadership once the fighting and the work of revolution had passed. I am too quick to judgement, too absolute and severe. I cannot bend where I ought to. Far too stubborn I am afraid.

[And, as he was in revolution, he recalls again, too apt to get others hurt. To lead them to their deaths because he has never known when to give in. So said Malicant, and so a part of him does believe now, as muh as it discredits some of his friends. But, no matter. He will not be leading anyone but Marius into anything now, and better for them all it stays that way.]

[He smiles at Enjolras, a kind expression. Enjolras is the wounded one, and Richard cannot tell if the injuries he shows in quiet moments are wounds he hopes to hide. Because of that uncertainty, Richard makes no comment and guards against intrusion into what Enjolras might prefer private.] I am happy to listen. [A little teasingly, Richard adds,] When we first spoke, we said we would each discuss our homes some time, did we not? This is a part of yours.

But if it is a cautionary tale, it is not a simple one of good and evil. Perhaps that is a more unheard warning than that about those with power: even those on the side of justice are flawed, and harm will come from our weakness if they are not guarded against.

[Richard doesn't allow himself to frown. His gloved hands clasp before him.] In my country, before the valkines Gloandi to which we owe our prosperity, an inscription reads, 'Forge a contract of blessing and healing with the wind here.' We think of atonement as an oath, a pact to heal old wounds in others and in ourselves, and from there to grow new blooms. Such an oath is difficult for individuals to carry out, so it is no surprise that it is harder still for the collection of individuals we call nations. But I know that Windor is capable of healing its wounds, those it has inflicted on others and suffered itself, so that it might grow into an even better nation. I can't accept that such a thing is out of reach for any country, on my world or in another.

[This conviction is not weak, untested naivety. It is hard-won idealism, the kind of hope that has been tempered and tested against suffering and despair. Richard believes in the best of humanity because he has seen it during the worst.]

Edited 2013-07-25 09:48 (UTC)

[Some of these are wounds Enjolras carried with him, really. The wound to his ability to approach situations like his role in the revolution, and his own conduct is new, and he dislikes the uncertainty he has been left with, but other than that, well. It IS probably better not discussed though. If Enjolras was aware of how much he was letting show, he would be disappointed in himself, and likely retreat further so....good move there, Richard. ]

Oh it is certainly a complex one, I will say that. But yes, the idea that power must constantly be checked perhaps, that even when those brought to it are brought to it by means that many support...there must remain a balance.

It is not so simple in practice as the social contract Rousseau would have us create amongst ourselves and yet [And that is when he realizes that Richard likely has no idea who that is.] I...he is a philosopher, from my world. He proposes that all men are the sovereign of their nations and subject to each other at all times.

It would seem that our first republic proves that even when we approach something with those goals in mind, that when the people let go for a moment, those left in control will, undoubtedly be left in a position where someone or other is acted upon. I find it worrying in part, that those who stand for that sort of ideal can be removed, by power, to something so far beyond it that something like our Terror will naturally be the result.

Perhaps the lesson along those lines is something more along the lines of keeping the people at the forefront, even after the main goal of a republic has been accomplished. I would not blame the people for what came but there was something of a breakdown, undoubtedly. It may be worth considering ways, incentives to keep the people as part of the sovereign after it has been established. What that may be, well. I can hardly claim I am expert in such a thing.

But yes, harm from our weakness, for that IS what came. It is strange. One considers that the part of man which wishes most for freedom and for the right to government does not know what to do with it once it is there. Proper establishment of goals and natural systems before it's won in any case, may well be needed here.

[And Enjolras falls silent, listening again as Richard mentions the contract.]

"A contract of blessing and healing. Yes I can see where that is difficult. It takes so much forgiveness when there are many who it seems have never earned the right. I am so good at being severe, I think that I forget the rest. But France, of any nation is capable of finding greatness and of doing such. I am told our second republic exists but I am afraid to learn more of it because I fear not only that we have not reached it, but we have forgotten to try. It is possible but I do not know what I would do, what a blow that it would be, should such things never come to pass, should we be short of even approaching that ideal no matter what. It is not out of reach but...

[Well, isn't this depressing.]

I ought not to lose hope, for France is France and will always be capable and worthy, but I would certainly feel better if I knew that we were on our way.

[Richard listens attentively as Enjolras speaks. The political theory is easy enough to follow, though the name is foreign. Strahtan philosophers have expressed similar ideas in the past, and the idea has merit.

It is strange, but the way Enjolras talks reminds Richard of his nightmares. That constant struggle to go back, do over, find what was wrong and fix it. To get it right, this time. To escape the endless loop of pain and find a happy end. And if the first republic was a dream turned into a nightmare, there is a natural analogue to Enjolras's desire not to learn more. It sounds so much like someone woken from a nightmare, too scared to lie down and once again risk his dreams.

Richard looks at the creature in Enjolras's hands. So often, Richard has been unable to sleep.]

I do not know what the answer to that problem would be. Not all is perfect in the Republic of Strahta, but the idea of a democracy is strong in them. The people take pride in their ability to choose their leaders; their children are able to have dreams of one day taking the Presidency. Whatever the flaws of that system, the ideals live strong in its people. But they have had this kind of government for decades upon decades, now.

Dreams that change the world take years to build up. France may have faltered this time, but what you described happened so quickly. Nations need time. As do people.

[Has it only been a year since Richard's whole world has been rewritten? Sometimes, he feels the painful ghost of that blade in his stomach. Richard keeps a calm, unwavering tone.] Give France time, Enjolras. If the Second Republic falls to its weaknesses, then France will have a third. The mere fact that France has tried again after losing it all is proof that it desires your ideals, and in time it will achieve them.

But give yourself time as well. France's future won't change if you wait a little to hear it. When you want to know, it will be there for you.

Edited 2013-07-29 09:55 (UTC)

[There are many things that Enjolras is fairly afraid to face in dreams these days, it is true. They have, mostly, to do with his own attempts on the barricades, sparked more by Malicant than by any horrors he brought here. That he knows of.

If he was pressed, he would suppose that having all of that recalled has made things seem more pressing, and disturbing than he had let them seem so far. Getting it right though. It seems that much of Enjolras's life has been spent in examining the first republic, trying to determine how he might do it better, asking himself if that was done in arrogance or not... Perhaps he has spent too much time with this, he reasons now, that it has followed him here, and continues to be exhausting.]

I suppose that nothing can be perfect, can it, when men are involved. Better that they try I think, as your people seem to be doing. It would be...well functional and better enough for the moment. I always strove toward the ideal, as if that was to be the only end.

[His frown is more thoughtful than sad, though a little pensive still as he takes a moment to consider. Even half of what they had come to assemble for would have been well enough, points out an annoying little voice in Enjolras's head that sounds, quite suspiciously, like Combeferre.]

I think perhaps in focusing on only the ideal, I have forgotten the good that can come when even part of it is met. Everything you say, although it is not perfect, it seems far closer to it than we have managed in France. Decades upon decades...

[He actually smiles a little now, considering that.]

You speak like someone very dear to me. Etienne would advocate natural progress above forcing too much at once. I've always thought he was too cautious but it would seem that rushing things can do much harm, instead of good. Our little rebellion, in the scheme of things, did not do much harm except to those men who came to fight there and were killed, or probably arrested.

[Surely at the other barricades, surely Charles Jeanne would have survived if anyone. It's a thought Enjolras has held to when he thinks of the other barricades, wishes he knew for certain. If he can be assured that one of the actual leaders, on the pulse of even more than the ABC had known had lived through it, well, it certainly would help set his mind at ease a bit as to France's future.]

I think there could not have been more than... perhaps a hundred killed from the reports I had been getting of the barricades that fell, including us. Not a bad fate for France, or for the republican cause, perhaps, but for those men who died...well. That may have been the result of our rushing things too much.

[Not Enjolras alone, at least, and he takes comfort in that fact, but even so, removed from the direct fighting, having confronted it as he's been forced to, it is different to consider now.]

I'd thought, we had all thought, to give the monarchy a protest of our corpses and deliver France through our shed blood, but had we given things more time, perhaps...it very well could have played differently. Perhaps it did as our Second Republic came to be, or may have again if there were more problems later. I will hope that those who came after us learned those lessons from us, instead of for themselves, firsthand.

And yes, of course, Patria, France, will always fight when it is needed. There will always be men who'll rise again. And worrying does me no good, or any of us...

Thank you. [This actually HAS helped.]

And as for you, your Strahta. You must miss and worry yourself, despite your own good advice for me.

Edited 2013-07-29 16:12 (UTC)

[There is, Richard thinks, no need to respond to Enjolras's contemplation of France's path towards his ideal, for is seems to Richard that Enjolras has talked himself through it and come to some resolution better than the last. Nothing can dispel a nightmare completely, Richard knows that. But it looks like Enjolras is a little closer to having some peace of mind, at least for now. And when Enjolras turns the conversation towards Richard's world, he takes it as a close to this mediation on Enjolras's thoughts.

He laughs softly.] You are not wrong that I worry. Ephinea, my homeworld, is divided into three nations: Fendel, Strahta, and my home country, Windor. We have each of us been at war with the others for years, now, primarily over resources; Windor's fertile farmland and our stable energy sources are highly appealing to both our neighbours, who lack one or the other. President Paladine of Strahta is a good and reasonable man, but he is also willing to do what he must to ensure the prosperity of his own people, even if that means invading my territory. Chancellor Eigen of Fendel has become less dictatorial in recent years, but a number of catastrophes have dogged his long rule, and I worry that his government may suffer a coup, at the expense of Fendel's people. As for Windor itself . . . With the recent wars and my uncle's military coup, my people have endured more than enough pain already. I want to give them peace.

I worry, yes, but I and my allies work for the peace and prosperity of all on Ephinea each day. The nations are tired of war; we hold trinational conferences now, as we have never done before. Our people travel more freely between nations, exchanging ideas and knowledge, improving the lives of everyone in every country. We work to ensure that Strahta has no need to invade Windor for its own people to be secure, and my friends in Fendel have measures in place to guarantee that all projects to secure their people's quality of life will continue, regardless of what happens to the current government. And I myself must reform Windor's laws to ensure that rule of Windor will always fall into the right hands, regardless of birth.

[Richard realizes that he has gone off on one of his tangents about his will for Ephinea's future, and he smiles apologetically.] What I miss most is Windor's countryside. It is a peaceful view, merely the green of farm and forest and the life-giving wind blowing through it. The wind in Keeliai is not the same. Asti lives, but death has a grip on this world. The people here need help as much as those at home do, if not more. I rest more easily knowing that my friends at home will carry my work out, should I not be able to return.

Edited 2013-07-30 02:11 (UTC)

The nations, tired of war, unite for peace. So that is possible in some world at least.

[THAT is good to hear. Enjolras had wished for France to be that center of the world someday, well, of Europe first, and then the world, so to hear it's been done elsewhere, well, the thought is powerful at any rate, and makes him smile to contemplate it.]

Peace is the goal in all endevours, when one picks up the sword, for whatever purpose I should think. Unless the man who wields that sword is less than honorable, but somehow I cannot see that as you.

[Not after the way Richard has spoken at any rate. How odd, Enjolras thinks, watching as the other man speaks of the things that have happened in his home, to find a monarch who cares for the people themselves, and not for his power. He was struck by it before,of course, but never really understood until this moment, while he can only nod, and continue listening to what has been done.]

It is so strange [he's musing, offering Richard a bit of a smile, tentative though it is.]

I had never considered, in my experience, the idea of a monarch, any monarch who would do so much for his people, remember them, put them before himself. You are, however, such a man. You are what we'd consider not simply a leader, but one who truly has the interests of the people at his heart, and it is obvious you do not rest without considering them first. There is a word for men like that, at home. Citoyen, not Citizen. Literally, public spirited. It certainly applies to you.

[A monarch must keep his dignity at all times and allow only controlled display of emotions. The image he presents is important, Richard knows, and he has trained himself to act always with the bearing of a king.

But the effect of Enjolras's words is visible: first, eyes that widen, startled by the words; second, a faint red colour at Richard's cheeks. Most obviously, Richard puts a hand over his mouth.

It's not like Richard has never been complimented before, but not like this, not someone who has neither use for him nor desire to see him through rose-tinted glass.

Richard clears his throat and tries to school his expression into something more befitting a king.] That's . . . kind of you to say. Ah—you said you read law, did you not? Perhaps you would be willing to offer some suggestions on how the laws might be peacefully reformed to give more voice in government to the people, without making my lords feel disenfranchised and inciting civil war.

[Smooth save, Your Majesty.]

Edited 2013-07-30 08:16 (UTC)

[Jehan does that on occasion, so Enjolras thinks nothing so much of it, at least in terms of Richard's dignity or lack thereof. He has simply...been struck with how different things are in Richard's world, how different of a man he is, and reacted accordingly, almost without thinking on what he said because it feels so natural to the man. Odd, that, but it is nothing bad. Simply...different. Different is not so bad.]

I did yes, and I had tried to reform and advocate for the change of law at home. I would be delighted to discuss what I know has worked in other nations and systems, though...I must admit my understanding would be limited to those. If you do not mind, though, I would glad to discuss this.

[Richard's got his cool back. There is nothing like discussing the affairs of state to make him behave properly.]

I would welcome it. I have only the example to Strahta to look at. Other models will give me more to consider.

I do wish that I had some of my books here, or my work where I've already framed some arguments. Of all the things to have been left behind, it WOULD be the most important ones, now wouldn't it?

[Things like clothes for example. who cares about useless clothing when there's philosophy and theory he could be discussing? He would gladly wander around the turtle naked if he had his books here. ...There's probably a good portion of the turtle who would approve of that too, really.]

And I must introduce you to my friends as well. Combeferre especially. If there are any who got me through my lifetime without being killed or burning out, it would be him above all else. He has a way of retaining knowledge about everything about him. That may be useful as well.

["Come and meet my boyfriend" in other words. Can it be more obvious, Enjolras, really?]

It is unfortunate that the Emperor has not displayed an ability to bring them along with us. [A pause as he remembers the data he went through] Though I have heard that when we dock with the mainland, at times, objects from home, even animals, can appear. Perhaps you'll be fortunate.

[Richard just hopes he never has to get any of his work from home. No thanks, Dalen. It was bad enough when Richard was sent his paperwork while in space.

At the description of Enjolras's friend, Richard smiles warmly. There is little more dear to his heart than friendship.] I am glad you have such a friend with you. It would be a pleasure to meet him.

Well, perhaps so then. I have not been here long enough to know. It would be nice, certainly. ...Comforting, really, so I can hope at least. But I can at least put forth the basics later on if you would like.

[Paperwork. This is the same way Enjolras hopes that the last essay he had been working on before the rebellion took hold will never come here to haunt him either. He had left quite a bit of it undone, considering he had really not had the time, and does not know that he would know what to do with it now.]

Good then. I think you two will get along. You remind me of him in many ways.

Of course I would; that will be most helpful. [With a lift of a hand, he goes further to say,] It may not be as polished as your written work, but I've often found the oral presentation of a subject to be more vivid and open to the generation of ideas. In our case, it may even be preferable.

[Richard is a big believer in the idea of friends and introducing friends to other friends. He brushes the bangs from his eyes.] I should like to get on well with such a friend as you have described.

Generally, true, yes. The final work does have the benefit of my friends' opinions and impacts but...close enough I think, and if it does the same that it initially did, all to the better, I think? Especially as you point out. When there are less written absolutes f my world, it allows for some expressions of yours, perhaps. I shall have to see if we can arrange for him to join us on one of these discussions perhaps. Or any of the others here. They may well enjoy helping too. After all...

[And that's a wry hint of a smile on Enjolras's face.] It is not every day we are given the chance to educate a monarch.

[Richard laughs warmly.] And it has been a very long time indeed since I have had lessons from revolutionaries. I would love to hear your thoughts and those of your companions.

I certainly can imagine that it would have been. I will look forward to it then. Perhaps I should arrange something via the networks at least at first. [He's musing a little here. ] We have all been fairly...out of touch since recent events.

[Richard takes a delicate approach around the subject matter at hand.] If you were in the habit of having such discussions with them, something like this could have a helpful familiarity for you all.

That is how we met. Well, tend to have met generally. Etienne was asked by one of our instructors to deal with me after politics got out of hand one day, and the others through various other ways like that, or as friends of friends. Some familiarity may be good for all of us just now, you are right. I HAVE been...avoiding them a bit too much, I must admit to that much. [It is hard to say why exactly but...perhaps if he tries, running the issue by Richard will not seem so bad.] Fear, I suppose, and my knowledge of what the shadow being said to me when I was with him that is true... I've been quite careless with my friendships and I had never intended that. Facing it is difficult. To say the least.

[Richard holds back a smile at that phrasing: "asked by one of our instructors to deal with me after politics got out of hand one day." That was too easy to imagine of Enjolras. The topic becomes more serious again. Because Enjolras has admitted to it, Richard allows himself to discuss it.

He wonders what Malicant said to Enjolras. Whatever it was, Richard is sure it was designed to target weaknesses more than truths.]

Friends are often more forgiving and accepting than we often are of ourselves. It is a matter of giving time again. When you are ready to speak with them, they'll welcome it.

[Richard doesn't know Enjolras's friends. He doesn't have to. That's what friends do.]

[What's even worse is Enjolras's usual method of communication in those days was not even shouting but refusing to concede any points. At all. Ever. Dear God, he was a pain in the ass of just about everyone opposed to him then. And even people who just tried to talk him down. Which is probably why he last went home when he was about fourteen and hasn't bothered going back for the most part. Anyway...

Yes, weakness was...a big part of it. Exposing Enjolras to his own, really. From someone else he may have even considered some of this advice. As it is though? Well...]

So they are. And I cannot imagine mine condemning me. What I have learned is...damning enough, I suppose, that I needed time away. But now I wonder if I went too far. That is...I have no idea how to go back.

[There's a familiar song in what Enjolras is saying. Richard has heard it many times, in those cruel moments when the world offers no distraction and has yet to give the oblivion of sleep. It pains him that Enjolras suffers like this, and he speaks with conviction.] In true friendship, I don't believe that's possible. Regardless of how far apart you stand, or what sins you bear—regardless of the punishment you believe you deserve and the kindness you believe you do not . . .

[Richard glances down at his own hand.] I believe the greatest way to apologize to friends is to trust them. You may feel you've walked too far away, but in truth, they're still there behind you, waiting for you to turn that they may again extend their hand. [He sees an image of Sophie and Asbel reaching out to him. "Let's make a friendship pact."

Richard raises his eyes and raises his hand, palm upward, to Enjolras. A gesture of invitation, though he does not expect Enjolras to take his hand. It is a symbol more than that.] Trust a man who has walked into an abyss, thinking himself alone. Your friends want to take your hand and bring you back.

Edited 2013-08-06 09:53 (UTC)

[The worst of it, really, is in the realizing that you brought it upon yourself, as Enjolras's absence has done to the others. After all, it is not as though he did not have offers. Jehan had invited him to come and stay, Combeferre is right next door, and he should not, for the life of him, be alienating Combeferre right now. Still, it did happen, and the fact that it happened is worrying.

Instead of simply saying that though, he'll will himself to listen instead, nodding slowly as Richard speaks.]

I suppose if nothing else, I do not lose anything by trying to move back, do I? If things are changed...they can be no less than just now, I should not think. And there have been offers I am too much the fool to take. Therefore...well, perhaps I ought to try all the same. It will be difficult but...

As you say, perhaps it is time to reach back to them. ...Thank you. This helps.

[Richard smiles at Enjolras. Whatever has happened, Richard has faith in one thing above all others: friends are always the path to salvation. There is no greater force in Richard's cosmology.]

I've kept you from your walk, haven't I? You've given me much to think about, Enjolras, and I thank you.

Oh a bit perhaps. But I think I HAVE found what I needed, what I did not even know that I was looking for, so it was good to see you. Thank you. [Small as his smile is, and as brief, it certainly is genuine.] You have given me the same, you know. We must speak soon.

[Genuine is what counts. Richard speaks with conviction.] We shall do so. Good day, Enjolras.

if distress of mind befalls a wise man

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