[Video]

[specialist_snowflake]

[Winter's severe disapproval and judgment is on open display. She makes no effort to disguise her displeasure, her brow darkening, the corners of her mouth descending.]

The recent rash of monster attacks and general assortment of chaos has left me to question the leadership capabilities of those who deem themselves fit for their positions. I will state the problematic issues that I have personally witnessed, and suggest a solution that I would strongly advise to be taken into immediate consideration.

[Her head turns just slightly to indicate her first assessment.]

One. Newcomers arrive in this city on a near-daily basis. Under ordinary circumstances, the hologram would be enough to inform them of their first steps. However.

[FROWN.]

For as many capable fighters as this city seems to hold, not one stepped forward to watch the Bay for new arrivals. Instead they were immediately thrust into a perilous situation that a mere holographic recording could not possibly hope to redeem. This is a serious and reckless oversight. During times of emergency, a team must be instated to protect our newest and most vulnerable citizens. They were neglected and left to fend for themselves.

This should NOT be allowed to happen again. Do I make myself clear?

[There's a hint of fire in those frosty tones. She definitely expects a response in the affirmative.]

Two. Along a similar vein, no public announcement was made about the sudden dangers each realm now possessed. An excusable oversight in Everglade, as no serious harm can come from a sudden shift in architecture from inedible to edible, annoying as some of you may have found it to be. For Attleton, however, the lack of warning was completely intolerable. The physical and mental damage sustained from an unexpected encounter from one's worst fears can be severe, even deadly. Despite this, there was no evacuation order, no warning, and no guard to stand by and warn the ignorant who might have ventured too close. Such gross negligence cannot be easily forgiven, but should be absolutely remedied to avoid future tragedies.

[Her icy blue eyes narrow.]

Three; my final point. Many of you were caught unaware, and unprepared, to sufficiently deal with the dangers into which you were thrust. To you, I offer a choice. You may content yourselves to remain victims and cling to the shadows of those who are stronger, better trained, and more capable. There is no shame in acknowledging one's weaknesses and limitations.

[Even though it sure sounds like she's heaping on the shame.]

However.

If you would seek to improve the situation, for yourself and others, then you must be willing to undergo a training regimen that will test your boundaries, and force growth. There are many such individuals who are willing to accept students for any number of learned skills: martial combat. Wilderness survival. Communications. If you are one such person with an invaluable skill that few to none offer, do not be stingy and hoard your gifts. Teach.

Though I did not accept students in the world from which I hail, my current position as the captain of the royal guard in Fayren affords me the opportunity to offer an intense training regimen to those with the proper motivation, perseverance, and mental and physical fortitude. It takes eight weeks to complete, and my methods are grueling. If you would have a teacher to coddle you and accept your failures, do not apply, for you will be turned out at once. I expect perfect obedience. In return I will teach you to survive, and to hone your talents.

Should you even manage to impress me, I may offer you a position as one of my elite. Nonetheless, should you seek employment as a royal guard or simply to become better than you are, I would welcome you.

[Winter leans back just slightly, her arms clasped formally behind her back.]

I have stated my disapproval, as well as my suggestions for improvement. If you have questions you are free to make them known. But I will not tolerate bruised egos or tantrums. Respond with either and you shall be cut off at once, and disregarded.

Winter Schnee signing off.

[Blip! And she even managed a little snowflake logo for her call sign. Well isn't that fancy.]

Comments

[Video]

[kalmaleader]

[Who the fuck is this, and what gives her the authority to judge how the Guardians and the overall population handle these situations? While Qubine is still reeling from encountering his own worst fears, he'll push that aside for now, giving her an annoyed glare, and a response drenched in sarcasm.]

Right. I'm sure you can see everything coming from leagues away on your high horse.

[There's a slight pause as he taps his maw with a claw in thought.]

However...I suppose the bay could use a new informative hologram, especially now that Weiss is no longer a City Guardian...

[Video]

[specialist_snowflake]

[Her eyes narrowed. Did she not just make herself clear?]

Name. Position.

( video )

[tevinteraltus]

[Dorian smiles when the video initializes.]

So you are her sister!

[Yeah, he did take that away from this.]

Also, you make very good points, dear. [A beat.] Congratulations on your appointment, by the way.

( video )

[specialist_snowflake]

[Winter coldly studies his face. When it becomes clear that he has no intention of becoming defensive or critical, her stance relaxes, if only a touch.]

Congratulations are unnecessary. I possessed the qualifications to be accepted. Nothing more.

[A beat.]

[Then an incline of her head.]

But I thank you.

[Video]

[aurabble]

[This was the person Weiss admired and Ironwood wanted him to be trained by?

Oh hell no. Nope.]

Wow you talk a lot.

[Video]

[specialist_snowflake]

A fruitless observation.

[CLICK. Come back when you have words of real value, scrub.]

Video;

[eeeksorcist]

[This woman feels familiar. She knew a Legate as fiery as this one. Ah, memories... So, of course, Eleanor was only moderately intimidated.]

You make a valid point about the newcomers. I would be more than happy to donate my extra time to watching over the Bay area.

Video;

[specialist_snowflake]

Excellent. I am certain your service will be greatly appreciated.

[They're not in the same military unit, but there's a feel of military, enough that she can raise her hand in brief salute.]

Name and position.

[If she has to take matters into her own hands, then she's going to take note of which people recognize the problem and move to do something about it. At the very least she can give commendations to their commanding officers.]

private video

[captain_by_the_book]

[ Look, it's the thoroughly unimpressed Guardian of Attleton, not a fan of call-out posts unless he makes them and a Very Unhappy Incubus after several weeks of dealing with Attleton's problems.

Nothing can go wrong with this conversation, right? ]

The Captain of Fayren's Royal Guard has my thanks for informing me of my gross negligence and shaking the citizens' faith in law enforcement in a time of crisis.

private video

[specialist_snowflake]

If they lack faith, do not lay the blame at my feet. Fix your mistakes, Guardian, and ensure that they are not repeated in the future.

video;

[truesmiles]

Couple things I want to say~!

One: If you are suggesting people take an hour or so of time out of there working schedule to watch the Bay for team watching of the Bay, does that mean you'll be volunteering too? I mean shouldn't someone set an example after suggesting it?

[Fai was doing his bit, walking by when he was going home in hopes that maybe someone he knew would be there or something. But he knew he didn't have enough time to constantly stay there 24/7 for a slim chance of someone arriving.]

Secondly, I do agree that warning should have happened, which... Usually, people have been known to do but evacuation would have been time-consuming if you are saying it in the sense of natives of this place and getting them out of the archway. [A paused as he held up one finger wriggling it slightly.] I don't mean people shouldn't be taken to safety like the safe houses that exist which... If your idea went off the ground, I guess those people could tell new arrivals if a dangerous situation were to happen but for natives in order to leave the archway, you have to literally hold there hand to cross them over.

[He... really was not kidding on that one.]

I know I didn't do as much as I have been known to do, at least. I have been very limited this time around. But I take it as a learning experience for next time.

video;

[specialist_snowflake]

You presume I have not already done so. I am afforded one day of leave from my duties per week, and this day has been dedicated expressly to combat within the area of Genessia City.

In addition, during the limited time slot where I may review and answer the calls of newcomers, I have done so with the intent of providing them the warnings that they require.

[She fixes him with a hard stare. People may say that she is harsh and sharp-tongued, but a hypocrite she is not.]

As you are not a city guardian or one of its deputies, my expectations for your own behavior are far more lax. You may conduct yourself as you see fit. Consider my words as suggestions for improvement, not open condemnation.

video;

[whiteas]

Winter, I.. don't mean to sound like I'm speaking out of turn, but given that you've just arrived and this isn't a particularly normal situation that anyone's been dealing with, I think it may have been more prudent to speak with the City Guardians in private with your ideas instead of publicly judging them for doing their jobs within their cities. Each of the Guardians had a duty to the population that's already here. While yes, it was frightening for new arrivals to arrive with monsters, it's not their fault they were busy dealing with them.

If anything, you shouldn't be holding the City Guardians responsible for doing their jobs as stated, but you should be holding me responsible for not thinking to create a state-of-emergency hologram and working to create evacuation measures when I was still in office as is the role of the company who takes on the majority of welcoming tasks in Genessia. I'll speak with Whitley, but I do think you should acknowledge your own weakness in identifying responsible parties as a knee-jerk reaction to something not having been done already.

[ Trying to speak up to her sister is honestly terrifying. Which is why when she adds something, her voice is a little bit higher pitched than normal. She's nervous. ;; ]

Also, if this is such a concern to you, perhaps you should start a task force for the protection of Bay arrivals instead of expecting everyone else to do it.

video;

[specialist_snowflake]

[There are many things in Weiss's words that cause Winter's expression to darken. 'Weakness.' 'Expecting' others as if she's content to merely delegate instead of acting to the best of her own abilities.]

Your opinions are duly noted. However, do not be so presumptuous, Weiss. While a task force would certainly be an excellent project, I lack the time, resources, and funds for a formal organization. More importantly, I lack the authority. I can point out the flaws and weaknesses, as well as offer solutions. It falls upon the shoulders of the guardians to act on these suggestions as they see fit. But if they are more concerned with protecting their egos than the populace, I cannot in good conscience offer further support, particularly when it would come at the cost of failing to fulfill my primary duties as a captain of the guard.

[She knows her boundaries (at least in her point of view), and doesn't believe she's crossed them as of yet.]

I have issued funds to those who have volunteered their services. What they choose to do with those funds is now their responsibility.

Additionally, I see no reason to change the holographic display that's been put in place, so I am laying no charges at your feet. If you are able to install an override broadcast during a time of emergency to replace the standard, that would be beneficial indeed.

Audio

[blindpuppet]

While some of your points are valid. You should learn to listen before speaking.

[She then sends a file through the phone with a recording of David Haller's announcement to those in Genessia. Time stamped to the moment that the Genessia monsters had begun.]

I've been paroling all around Genessia. I apologize that I can't be everywhere at once.

[Her tone is flat and it's hard to tell if she's serious or not with her apology.]

I think it's wise to train people but do you think that weapon regulations should be considered as well? Not all of the people who arrive here are upstanding citizens, I am not implying that they should be defenseless, but are you willing to train everyone with no way to determine a person's history? Weapons are rather easy to obtain as well.

Call me curious but you seem like the best person to direct these questions too.

Audio

[specialist_snowflake]

[If there's a long delay in response on Winter's end, it's because she's carefully studying the video, the maps that David issued, and the methods he employs when publicly interacting with those who responded. She finds his response...satisfactory. No, above satisfactory. It's excellent, and she regrets that she had not seen it until now.]

[So while she may not care for this girl's flat-toned rebuke and perceived sarcasm, she makes no effort to concoct an excuse.]

Then it seems I was mistaken in my initial assessment. I will apologize to him, and to you.

[She may not sound overly regretful, but her words are sincere.]

However, I fail to understand your meaning concerning weapons regulations. I am not in an authoritative position to grant or deny weapons to the general populace, only to those who wish for my personal training. In that case, my methods are classified.

[text]

[redcinemareel]

[One thing Grell noticed is that she is as long winded as her sister.]

duly noted.|

[...and then she blocks her!! She doesn't have time for her tirades and bossiness. Not now, and not in the future. If she tries to reply, she won't be able to get through, and Will get her message sent back with an error.]

[Video]

[om_nom_namur]

Man, an' here I thought Grell was Queen Bitch a this place.

[He bows, hand over his heart.]

Yer highness, 's a pleasure t' make yer acquaintance.

[Video]

[specialist_snowflake]

If you cannot provide anything of merit to the table, then I have nothing to say to you, Faunus.

[lol bai click]

[Audio]

[corruptedsave]

[Tired child voice from this one.]

You think pretty highly of your own opinion, don'tcha? Like to the point you won't even listen to anyone who doesn't agree with you too.

Kinda like the Nova May--Oh wait he's related to you ain't he, along with that big company too. Why should any of us listen to someone connected to all that? You're probably just using this as a way to make a profit or something to boost your name.

How selfish.

[Audio]

[specialist_snowflake]

Child. I suggest you educate yourself on the finer points of economics and political science before attempting to use them as a means of triggering someone's temper. Your ignorance will only undermine your efforts.

[Click to this one too.]

[Video]

[mother_of_monsters]

[Look at that. What a very angry yet very pretty lady. She brings up some good points but Dray frankly cares little about because it looks like they come from someone who hasn't been here for long.

However....it is a very pretty lady.]

Are you always this passionate about everything?

[Video]

[specialist_snowflake]

[She narrows her eyes, but doesn't yet immediately dismiss him. She's fairly fed up with being expected to play nursemaid to the thin-skinned, but, his tone makes his message unclear.]

Clarify your statement.

video | locked

[ironwoody]

Schnee!

[wow he lets her off her leash for a moment and this is what she comes up with.]

I am well aware of some of the issues this place has as well, however, do you not see the complications that come with damning all of the current guardians here and their hard work?

You are destroying any trust these people will have with you, and in turn, with myself as well. Stand. Down.

[yeah no he's not very impressed with this display of hers.]

video | locked

[specialist_snowflake]

[There are few emotions that Winter allows to register on her face, discernible only to a select few. In this case, there's surprise. And then frustration that borders on desperation as her lips part, a protest at the ready, as she thought he might be one of two people who would understand and support her message.]

[She's silent, searching his face.]

[The ice slowly wipes away the traces of her emotions, for there are still some things she permits no one to see. Not even Ironwood. Instead she wears her mask of cool professionalism and salutes.]

Understood. It will not happen again.

Anon-Video

[rando_dork]

Uh-Hey there, nice to meet you scary disappointed mom person.

I don't do much in official capacities or anything, masked vigilante and all that.

I get what you're saying though.

I'll try and swing by the bay more often if something like this does happen again. It's not much, but I'll try and do my part.

Anon-Video

[specialist_snowflake]

I believe I stated my name clearly.

[There's not much bite to her words, though. She does arch an eyebrow at the mask when Gwen mentions 'vigilante' but oddly, she doesn't question it. Whatever methods this one needs to achieve her results, so be it.]

That would be appreciated, as I am only released from my primary duties on Fridays. Coverage on any other day of the week would be most beneficial.

Video

[hamusukethewise]

[ There's a giant hamster on the video.]

I desire to train and better myself, that I do.

[ Hamusuke is probably better at wilderness survival, since that's pretty all she did for at least 200 years.]

Video - I don't have a surprised icon for Winter so...pretend this one does just that.

[specialist_snowflake]

[There are few things that can surprise Winter to the point where it would go so far as to register on her usually calm and serious face.]

[A giant talking hamster that wishes to seek her out for training is one of those few things. Congratulations, Hamusuke.]

I...

[Composure, Schnee!]

[The wide-eyed startlement passes swiftly, and a slightly incline of her head restores Winter's icy mask.]

...confess that I have no experience in training one of your...unique physical structure. Nonetheless, if you are amenable, I believe I may be able to structure a program that may suit you, once I've been made aware of your abilities.

Video; Private

[rulerofme]

The police have been mobilized since the first night that the Monsters appeared in Genessia City. The entire force has either been stationed in specific locations or given patrol routes. They are in constant contact with me to keep me updated on any relevant situations that they come to face. My Deputies themselves as well as me patrol every single night to deal with the monster threat.

Not only that but I have noted to the officers as well as non-natives, myself and my Deputy Guardians included, to help keep the Bay area clear in case new people arrive. The GCPD have been trained to deal with supernatural threats with the SWAT group within the department filled with those that excel in monster combat. I have spoken to business owners in all areas of the city to get them to leave their stores open so that anyone caught outside before the monsters appear at midnight every night can have a place to take shelter. Plus I have even mapped out hot zones for those defending to patrol and give out city maps.

I myself made a public announcement of the state of Genessia City, which I see that my Deputy Guardian as shown you above. The effort to combat these monsters is not remotely unorganized or chaotic, as many of us have faced events like this before. While I don’t disagree that a team should be made, it would be impossible for that team not to be stretched thin when there is something that every city has to deal with. The Hologram itself isn’t maintained by me or anyone other than your sister. If you have issues with it, speak to her.

As for the other cities, I can’t speak to what they are doing to deal with their situations, but I know they are handling it to the best of their abilities.

Video; Private

[specialist_snowflake]

I apologize, Mr. Haller. I confess that your initial announcement was somehow missed, a sizable error on my part.

[If anyone has the right to call her out, it would be him, and she would accept such with the appropriate humility and grace. That he remains calm and offers his explanation with patience is...impressive, and indicative of good leadership.]

I thank you for your detailed explanation, and offer my commendations. This is exemplary work.

( Video )

[inredress]

[Luther isn't really put off by the woman on the video at all. She...reminds him a little of his mother (and that's scary) but he's not going to suggest as much.

He does smile, at least slightly, when the feed initializes after sundown that day.]

I managed well enough, but thanks for the concern. [He does cross his arms, though.] I don't know how uncommon staff and spear fighting is around here. Do you? Uh...Captain Schnee? [He can at least pretend to be polite, after a pause, he adds.] Am I allowed to charge? I mean...I don't exactly have a source of income at the moment. [He inclines his head in a sort of greeting, though. As she's reminding him of his mother, he's reminded he should probably introduce himself.] Luther Rieben.

( Video )

[specialist_snowflake]

[When Winter replies, she appears as pristine and composed as ever. One might never guess she's just completed hours of rigorous training for the guards in her command, as there's not one snowy hair out of place, not one bead of sweat on her alabaster brow.]

[So, this man is one of the new residents, is he? She would offer welcome if it didn't seem so insulting to offer welcome to someone stolen from their worlds.]

I have yet to test the full combat capabilities of those outside of my command, so I cannot answer your question. Were I to hazard a guess, I would estimate that swords are the most common weapon utilized.

[She notes the respect. Appreciates it. Doesn't remark on it.]

As for whether or not you wish to gain a paycheck for your work, that would depend entirely on what it is you wish to do. If you intend to combat monsters in my stead, I can impart some of my personal funds to you as necessary for supplies, weapons, and food. However this would only be a temporary source of income until the emergency has passed. To continue using your skills for pay, you will have to look into other opportunities.

[Video]

[helghasten]

[The Helghast Colonel finds himself interested in the offer ]

"Col. Mael Radec, Helghast army, Ma'am. I find myself interested in your training, Captain, if you would be interested in having me. Running a military academy back home has allowed me to train various Helghan men and woman the art of combat."

"However, with no war, I've allowed myself to go soft. This I cannot tolerate of myself."

[Video]

[specialist_snowflake]

[Winter always feels far more at ease around others with military experience, even if she appears more uptight professional and alert around them. As such, it's easy to snap back into the mode in which she's the most comfortable.]

Understood, Colonel. I would welcome one with your background and experience, and may make use of your prior training to serve as an example should you manage to conduct yourself in a sufficient capacity.

[In other words, if he impresses her, she'll tell everyone else to be more like him.]

What are your combat specialties and areas of expertise?

Video

[burnwithawesome]

Man, the frosty ones seem like they are always the most the hot.

Video

[specialist_snowflake]

[FROWN. WHY.]

An interesting if useless observation, I'm sure.

[She hangs up on him. He was right about the frosty part at least. But he can call back if he's a glutton for punishment.]

[Video]

[blackrose_born]

As one of Genessia city's deputy guardians, I would feel compelled under normal circumstances to apprise you of your error - however, as others have done so already and this is patently not a normal situation, I will simply state that I am patrolling the blocks around the Bay with the aid of a squadron of law officers and my companion chocobo. Though my efforts have not been terribly visible, I assure you, they have been quite effective.

That being said, I am interested in this 'training' you offer. Allow me to make a counter offer; I will also offer my assistance in the teaching of some basic magics, especially more useful ones like healing and defensive spells. In return, I would like to observe your methods, and come to my own decisions on whether to take up your original offer for my own purposes.

I can also provide grand master-level crafting of weapons and armor to those who need them.

[Video]

[specialist_snowflake]

[Winter listens, her expression stony and serious. However, as Aeslyn finishes speaking, there's a very subtle lightening of her features as she inclines her head.]

I thank you for your understanding, and apologize for the lack of my own.

[Even if she's not demanding an apology, Winter knows that it is owed just the same, and she would be remiss if she did not give it of her own volition.]

[And just what is this 'chocobo' she speaks of?]

[The counter-offer is heard with interest. One who is versed in magic is not just a rarity in Winter's world, but downright legendary. The art may be more common here, but it is one she nonetheless values and respects.]

I am not certain I possess the innate ability to learn magic myself, but those under my employ may possess the capacity. That would be most useful.

[Especially since Hamusuke asked Winter to be better-versed in magic defense.]

However, I wish to modify the terms of our conditions. My methods are classified for reasons I am sure you understand as a matter of security to those I serve.

[If someone wished to harm the royal family, it's best if they don't know the extent of capability the royal guard possesses.]

Is there another option that would satisfy you?

[Video]

[alwaysimpaled]

[Have a borderline disgusted looking Dante.]

Lady, unless you have a way of fundamentally altering the very fabric of this reality, you might want to keep your mouth shut lest you put your foot in it.

First of all, from what I understand, all these capable fighters you mentioned? Yeah they were out, y'know. Fighting. To keep people safe.

Secondly, I can't speak for the other towns, but in Attleton our top priority was keeping people safe. Yeah, we didn't exactly advertise what was happening because "Everyone in Attleton is experiencing their greatest fears" would likely spark more panic than anything and panic in this situation is not a good sign.

Lastly, saying someone who chooses not to fight is weak, or choosing to "remain a victim" is not only ignorant, but downright idiotic. As for me, I fight because I'm good at it. Not everyone is, and it would be stupid to expect everyone to pick up a sword. If everyone is fighting, who's tending the farms? Who's mending wounds?

And no, I'm not going to teach anyone because what I do isn't teachable. And I'm pretty sure that anyone going to you for teaching is only going to get themselves hurt when you try to force them into your cookie cutter.

In short, this is why the people that are guardians are in office, and you're not.

Re: [Video]

[specialist_snowflake]

[Have a mute button. She'll review his statements later for matters that could possibly merit thoughtful consideration.]

[...Nope, there appears to be little more than angry defensive screaming, so there's no response. Cry more, devil.]

[Video]

[liorafae]

[Liora's been pondering and pondering. This might be just the kind of training she needs. But what if she can't handle it? She already tears herself down with her failures as it is, so she doubts that she needs anyone else to add to it. Well, the least she could do is ask and then decide from there. There's also the small problem of being both a dragon and a magic user, which would likely require different training methods, even if she were certain that she could handle the cruelty itself.]

...Is your training just for humans? And is it just for physical combat?

[Video]

[specialist_snowflake]

Certainly not. One needn't be human to be capable.

But it is not easy, make no mistake. It takes a great deal of dedication and willpower to survive. I don't exaggerate when I say that the ordeal is grueling. My methods are harsh, but I achieve results.

[ Video ]

[mortal_son]

Who died and made you queen of this place?

[ Drawled, sarcastically, with a scowl ]

[ Video ]

[specialist_snowflake]

[No response. She made it clear she's not going to engage in pointless arguments, but very few seem to have listened. Sorry, Shinjiro, no yelling for you.]

[video]

[borntolove]

Excuse me that I was in the lab making synthetic blood so those who were turned into vampires weren't trying to feast on inhabits or starve.

Secondly, snapping someone out of thar worst fear isn't something that you can do. They need to fight that themselves and figure out for themselves it's not real.

Thirdly, those in Genessia were safe as long as they stayed inside thar house. For some reason thar was a build in safety mechanism and thar were residents out fighting the monsters who could.

[video]

[specialist_snowflake]

[Winter doesn't seem the slightest bit ruffled.]

Why do you take umbrage when my criticism was levied at the guardians? Unless you were somehow remiss in your duties, I have no complaints. I'm certain your efforts were appreciated by those in need.

As for your second remark, I fail to understand the point you are trying to make. That fighting one's fear is somehow beneficial? Evidence points to the contrary thus far. Given that the results have been varied, it would have been a small matter indeed to simply issue a warning. Too many blundered into Attleton without sufficient notification and had no means to prepare, which could have easily been prevented with a simple message.

While you know that getting indoors was all it took to avoid the monsters, consider that new arrivals had no way of knowing this, and were also forced to navigate the streets to reach any kind of shelter at all, forcing them to be exposed to the monsters without. I do not particularly care how many people were fighting monsters; I care that the newcomers were not being monitored and protected accordingly.

Is there anything further? I dislike having to repeat myself.