[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.]
determined