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 Posted: Sun Aug 08, 2010 8:35 am
Bless him, he wasn't the greatest of conversationalists and she afforded a smile as she trotted enthusiastically after him. Pine cones were a rather mundane topic of conversation and she didn't blame him in the slightest for struggling with it. It might have been her favoured food but even she would have been hard pressed to talk at length about it. After all, what could she possibly say in relation to pine cones other than that they tasted nice and there was a special method to eating them properly? In short, there was nothing more he could probably say on the matter.
Rather than torture him with further conversation in relation to pinecones she instead turned her attention to his own name and wrinkled her nose. 'Dulph' she could understand, she even liked it - but 'Scum'? This puzzled her and she couldn't help but cast a glance towards him with an expression that spoke volumes about how she felt about this. Perhaps it was a difference in language but...
"Why in the name of goodness would I call you 'Scum'?" she asked in an incredulous tone, her eyes widening a little. "Are you telling me that's a normal name where you come from because it's definitely not here!" she explained and shook her head. Her brow furrowed just a touch, she didn't want to insult him but at the same time she didn't think it was right that he would accept the name even though it was an insult.
"Round here 'scum' is what you call someone when you don't like them, that's not a nice name at all!" she finished, thinning her lips in the process.
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Posted: Sun Aug 08, 2010 10:09 am
Dulph was a bit taken aback by her reaction. He was aware that often 'Scum' was said in a derogatory manner, but it was his name after all. A bit confused, "It is my name. How is it that you do not react to my name, yet would deride it if given it's more common epithet? After all, Biddulphia is also the proper name of pond scum. The green algae that gathers on the tops of small stagnant bodies of water. Thus, if one of a name Biddulphia may be called 'Scum' what matters that another of the same name not be given a similar sobriquet?"
Dulph had stopped at this point, to look at her while speaking, truly curious as to her reaction and reasoning. It did not occur to him that perhaps she had not known the source of his name. After all, she was a brilliant mathematician, surely she would know the proper names of flora and fauna.
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Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2010 1:23 pm
He gave her far too much credit - she had absolutely no idea what his name meant and it was a bit of a revelation to her. Thankfully she didn't appear to be too startled, however, her lips had pursed briefly before shaping into a small 'o'. Now that he had explained it, it didn't seem such a difficult concept for her to grasp. That being said, the term 'scum' was still a bit of an insult and she couldn't quite shake that even if he seemed to be unaffected by the less desirable definition. Unfortunately for Dulph, Francesca wasn't that intelligent and the knowledge that she did possess was through observation and experience. If she knew the name of one flora over another it was probably because she'd been told in passing, eaten it or stepped on it. She had sass and street smarts but she was certainly no genius!
"Well when you put it that way I can see why you wouldn't be too insulted by it," she mused and gave a small nod. "However," she continued and lifted a brow, "that still doesn't mean that it's a suitable nickname for someone around these parts - it's too open to abuse," she explained gently and tilted her head to one side. It was only as she spoke these words that she began to wonder whether or not they were entirely accurate. It was true that they WOULD be open to abuse but would he necessarily take note of the insult? She was beginning to suspect that he was a big thicker skinned than that, pun not intended when taking his metallic coat into consideration.
"I'd say it's a good idea if we just stuck with 'Dulph' for the time being...okay?"
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Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2010 2:16 pm
Dulph takes a moment to process, then nods. "Dulph is perfectly acceptable. I acknowledge your thoughts on the possible insult of 'Scum' and will refrain from suggesting it in future conversations. I thank you for your concern."
He stood there for another moment, trying to figure out what to say next, when he recalled they were headed towards pine cones and he had stopped leading. "I apologize for the pause, the pine trees are just a bit further this way."
Walking again, Biddulphia wondered that this mare was willing to accept his company despite his obvious physical malformations, as well as his apparent social ineptitude. But for now, he would accept his fortune in this matter. He thought it was possible she was only tolerating him until she had been lead to the pine cones, but was happy for her pleasant company regardless of the reason.
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Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2010 11:45 am
Had she been aware of what a computer was and had this technology even existed then she might have described him as almost robotic. Regardless, she couldn’t quite put her hoof on it but there was something a little unusual about this particular Usdia. It wasn’t that he was completely void of emotion, there was definitely something there. Anyone or anything devoid of emotion certainly wouldn’t be able to provide due consideration to her feelings on the matter. That being said, was he actually giving her due consideration or merely accepting her views on the matter as fact?
Puzzling.
Shaking her head dismissively at his apology, she provided a small smile and shuffled off obediently. Following his hoof steps, she continued to dwell on her musings for a short while – he was a bit of an oddball and certainly looked unusual but the two didn’t necessarily come hand in hand. Alas, there was no use pondering over answers that she may not necessarily get and eventually she drew her own conclusions. He was a bit strange but with that in mind, everyone was a bit unusual so he’d fit right in and she was just over-analyzing him. Simple!
“You know you’re not the first one to pause midstep, you know...” she pointed out with a wry smile and lifted a brow. “And you certainly not going to be the last,” she added with a small cluck of her tongue. It was completely normal for any creature to pose momentarily, particularly when subjected to very vocal thoughts. “So long as those thoughts were decent ones then it’s all good!” she paused herself after this remark and lifted a brow, “of course ‘good’ is entirely relative to whatever your perception of that is...”
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Posted: Tue Sep 28, 2010 1:55 pm
Musing while continuing to walk forward, "I have often contemplated the concept of 'good' and it's various meanings. I find that I am often lost when people discuss 'good' or 'decent' as there are often more meanings underlying the words than the meaning expressed. And as many of those meanings seem to be intertwined with a concept of a greater divine nature, be it a being or force, the meaning is further confused."
It's not entirely clear if he's actually intending this as conversation or if Biddulphia is simply thinking aloud. "Thus, my perception of 'good' is without solid definition. Though I fear that it seems there is little which may be classified as 'all good'. For to be 'all good' would not a thing be without any 'bad' as well as any 'evil'? And as both those concepts are equally confusing, how does one determine their lack?"
"Thus as perception is part of the definition, all such concepts must, inherently, be flawed. Or, at least, unable to be measured in a scientific manner." Continuing, not really paying attention to Francesca's reactions to his words, "As such, I prefer to label things 'acceptable' or 'functional' or another word of similar usage. Thus removing perception from the equation."
They were now far enough along their journey that pine trees were beginning to pepper their surroundings and a thick strand of them could be seen in the near distance.
"Of course, that is not to say that you do not have a clear definition of those concepts, and thus a viable notion of their usage. Only that I do not have such knowledge, and thus do not attempt to color my perception with them."
Of course, Dulph couldn't hear Fran's thoughts. If he could, he would agree that he was unusual. He knew he had emotions, but had difficulty accessing them, and further difficulty understanding them. He did try to understand the world as others seemed to see it, but somehow the process eluded him. Biddulphia often wondered if he was to blame for his lack of understanding. Or was it just a part of what made him so odd.
Was it possible that his hardened exterior extended into his thoughts and barred him from feeling on an emotional level the same as he was unable to feel on a physical level? Or was it a wall he had build himself, something to protect him from the pain of being driven from the company of others. Something that protected him in his solitude.
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Posted: Sun Oct 10, 2010 3:29 am
"Of course 'acceptable' and 'functional' can be based on perception as well," she pointed out. Oddly, the mare was rather intrigued by this question. She'd never really been able to discuss anything in such depth before, at least not with her family. Solstice had been great for philosophy and science, but he wasn't here right now. It was rare that she met another that actually gave her the opportunity to show that beyond her otherwise gung-ho and reckless behaviour, their lay an intelligent soul.
She didn't mind if he disagreed with her in this, she was just grateful for the conversation!
"In order for something to be acceptable or functional, you have to list what you consider to be it's defining qualities. However, this set of qualities varies from object to object and person to person. More importantly, the use you might find for something may be considered useless to another individual entirely rendering it unacceptable," she continued. She was developing her explanation of course and had no intention of turning it into a lecture, but as she'd left it previously, it was a touch vague.
"That in mind all opinions and definitions are inherently flawed and the only way to measure them in any scientific manner would be to agree with a council of individuals on what these things should be defined as first. Even then, the results you would receive would only reflect this view on what this particular topic should be - another council of individuals might choose to regard it in another manner, you know?"
She paused.
"I think when it comes to 'good' and 'evil', I like to define them in a way that my morals feel are right. Instinct tells me that being a nice soquili, being helpful and considerate are good things. My instincts tell me that to hurt others, to kill, maim and be cruel are evil. Some others might have differing views but I live by my definition and I'm happy with that - if you choose to live by 'acceptable' and 'functional' then there's nothing wrong with that either!"
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Posted: Sun Oct 10, 2010 1:47 pm
Biddulphia listens as Fran speaks. "Such definition may be useful, in functions of morality, however, I find my self often contemplating morals and their foundation. It often seems that morals are defined and then allowed to be bypassed in various situations as justified by said situation. Thus, morals, also, is a word I find difficult to process."
"Alternately, the word 'functional' applies as an action. Does the object or concept to which the word is applied 'function'? Is it able to be used in such a manner without a lack of understanding. Thus creating a definition in the base root of the word."
"'Acceptable,' similarly, can be given to something one accepts. Thus, the definition in the root. So that, in using it, I define it's meaning, in that I find the ability to accept whatever I designate as 'acceptable'."
Dulph pauses a moment to further contemplate this discussion and finds himself bemused that it is a conversation he is actually having with another. He had often had internal debates of this nature, but never the opportunity to discuss his thought with another previously. The realization stops his thought process as he marvels at this strange mare.
A thick strand of trees is just ahead now, and the rich scent of pine is heavy on the air.
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Posted: Thu Oct 28, 2010 1:20 am
"Ah, but again..." she had listened to him as he explained his definitions. She'd had a few moments to consider his words and to contemplate them before responding. It was better for her to think first and then speak, or else she might find herself in an uncomfortable argument. "In order to define the word 'functional' you also have to take into account what you believe it means. Your definition of functional may or may not differ from the views of another individual," she pointed out.
"Functions, acceptability and morals are all (in a manner of speaking) based on perception. What you consider to be functional may not work in the manner that another individual would want it to. Therefore, it isn't universally functional but is only regarded as such from a personal perspective," she pointed out. She smiled loosely, aware that she might be going in circles but they were discussing words and definitions, it was bound to happen.
"The basic definition of 'function' is the same for everyone, but how they apply this definition differs from creature to creature. I think the same could be said for acceptability, morals and any other word that requires perception in some form or another. If you find 'functional' is easier for you to impliment then I suspect in time you might find a manner in which to apply morals to something, or at least it's definition according to your own perferences."
She walked in silence at this point, glancing down at her hooves to avoid anything that might trip her up and make her land flat on her face.
"So long as you are suitably comfortable with your personal preferences that's really what matters. It doesn't matter what anyone else does, least not in my books anyway."
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Posted: Thu Nov 04, 2010 9:30 am
Biddulphia nods, "There is logic in your argument. I will think upon it."
A few more steps as Dulph ruminates brings the pair to an area thick with pine trees, their cones littering the forest floor. Their destination reached, Biddulphia puts his thoughts aside for the moment, "Are these pine cones acceptable? There are other varieties of conifers further into the forest if another variety is preferred?" Dulph politely waits for Fran to let him know her preference, trying to make his expression pleasantly friendly in lieu of the smile he couldn't quite manage.
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Posted: Mon Nov 08, 2010 4:03 am
She couldn't help but feel a touch of pride as he conceded and mused over the logic behind each of her statements. There was something satisfying about finding such ground in a debate. They hadn't argued and nor had they really disagreed, but her own knowledge and experience had benefitted another, even if it was to give him something to consider for a time. A small smile clipped her lips at this point and she gave a nod in reply, the subject now considered dropped for the time being.
However, it wasn't long before they finally reached the conifers. To say her eyes were as round as saucers would have been an understatement! She hadn't seen pine cones in years and dearly missed their tangy taste. She'd been spoiled rotten by unusual fruits and foliage, but there wasn't anything quite so satisfying as these. She couldn't surprise the squeal and she promptly bopped from hoof to hoof as an overexcitable child might do - but unlike a child she hadn't been presented with a toy.
Pine cones
Real. One hundred percent. Pine Cones.
She was spoiled of course, is the sense that it was the season for such foods but still! She flashed a much warmer smile in the direction of her guide, a clear expression of her gratitude and promptly trotted forwards. Delicately picking her way about the various trees until she located one she considered to be appropriate, it seemed to produce the finest quality cones from what she could see.
"Oh these are more than acceptable, thank you!" she announced merrily. "Would you care for some?"
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Posted: Tue Nov 09, 2010 1:34 pm
Biddulphia was startled that her joy in these simple pine cones actually evoked an emotion. He was pleased to have helped her fine these treats. Dulph couldn't remember the last time he had experienced such an emotional response. He studied the feeling for a moment before realizing he had been addressed.
Blinking twice, "Oh, yes, that would be . . . nice." Not a word he normally used, but after the discussion, and with this new feeling, Dulph decided to branch out a bit.
He walked forward to the tree next to the one Fran had chosen and studied the pine cones, looking for one that had only recently opened and would likely still have all it's nuts.
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Posted: Wed Nov 10, 2010 3:44 am
Sometimes it was the simple pleasures in life that got her through the day. She'd been away from home for quite a long time and even though she may have denied it in her own mind, her heart had been just a little homesick. Therefore, it really wouldn't have been a surprise to her family if she'd come home and acted like a young foal around something so simple. She'd probably end up being just as boisterous around her family, delighted to see them all healthy, happy and so on. Cold weather cast to one side, there was something very special about the rolling hills and less exotic foods!
It was only when Dulph's response became a touch delayed and his expression looked somewhat startled, that she tilted her head to one side and dropped her pine cone from her mouth. She'd been taught not to speak with her mouth full as a baby, and she'd learnt that if she talked with her mouth full around Sol, he tended to make up what he'd heard and make decisions she hadn't agreed to. As a result she could set the cone down for a time, she didn't want to be misunderstood after all.
"Something wrong? You seemed a little like your head was in the clouds," she mused and regarded him thoughtfully. "I'm not keeping you from anything am I? You could go if you preferred!"
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Posted: Wed Nov 10, 2010 9:54 am
Biddulphia shook his head slightly, "No, nothing is wrong. I was merely startled and engaged in a moment of introspection. I apologize for my apparent distraction."
Dulph had no idea how to explain that he'd been shocked by feeling something. He knew that for most other Soquili emotions were common and expected. His normal lack of emotion would be cause for most of them to wonder. Rather than shine light upon his current confusion and abnormality, Buddulphia gave another 'quasi-smile' to Fran. "I am perfectly content to remain here if my presence does not offend."
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Posted: Thu Nov 11, 2010 6:32 am
"If your presence offended I wouldn't have stuck around," Fran pointed out bluntly. She had her own, unique way of reassuring soquili and on occasions it involved stating the obvious. If she didn't like someone she was the sort to just walk away. She never excused herself, didn't even pick up a conversation, she just cut them off and scuttled on by. In essence, Fran was the epitome of honesty and was completely genuine in what she did - rest assured, Dulph would have known if she didn't like him.
"I don't really have time to waste in that respect, why bother with someone you dislike when you can go somewhere else?" she enquired in a rhetorical fashion. She didn't expect an answer and nor did she wait for one as the petite mare motioned him to come closer. A bob of her head and a motion of her hoof indicated that she wished for him to partake in the same pinecones she'd selected.
...These were the best ones after all.
"Try these ones, they seem firmer so the nuts should taste much more pleasant!" she chirped encouragingly.
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