Meeting: The 27th of January

The First Meeting of the Courtesy Circle


[Being an edited transcript of that event.]
[All disruptive behavior by sera Airela, who speaks no Common, deleted throughout.]


The Lecture Hall: a place for gathering many people for
presentations or group discussions.

You are standing near the west door. Mannfred, Illiana, Watchman Artegal,
Kaine, Quondam, Drusilla, and Duraze are sitting on wooden seats. A simple
table is lying near the north wall.

Punzel tells the lecture hall, "I am sera Punzel, also called Viola ...
Duelist, Awakener, and Poet ... and I will be leading this
meeting of the Courtesy Circle."

Punzel moves from the west door to a simple table.
Punzel curtsies politely.
Punzel sits down on a simple table.

Punzel admits, "But I don't like stuffy etiquette, so I am going
to sit on the table while I talk of courtesy."

Punzel grins.
[Various bowing and other politenesses.]

Punzel smiles slightly to herself, "I worry that the Courtesy Circle
meetings may end up spent entirely in bowing and curtsying to each other."

[Folks grin and/or laugh.]

Punzel nods decisively, "I will have to make a rule against it."
Punzel grins.
Drusilla says, "A courtsey circle with no curtsying."
Drusilla smiles slightly.
Mannfred smiles jovially.

Punzel smiles at Drusilla, "I just do not want to spend the entire meeting
with everyone feeling they must bow and curtsy constantly."

Drusilla nods smilingly at Punzel, "I understand. I was merly joking."
Punzel smiles at Drusilla.

Punzel asks, "Shall I begin with what I have prepared?"
[Lots of people nod and listen.]

Punzel admits, "I have not prepared a lot, but I did some thinking about
what courtesy is, and why this group seems like a good idea."

Punzel explains, "As I mentioned in my public posting, I am no
expert on the topics of courtesy and etiquette, but I do study
the materials available in this place, and do try to learn, and
also to teach what I am able to glean."

Punzel smiles encouragingly to the lecture hall, "I welcome your
input on these matters ... your questions, your thoughts, even
your disagreement if such arises. I ask only that you express
all of these with the appropriate courtesy."

Punzel explains, "Courtesy is the showing of respect and
consideration for those around us. It is not something imposed
from outside, like a set of rules ... it springs from within
the heart, as a desire to create a harmonious society."

Drusilla nods agreeingly.

Punzel smiles reassuringly, "Therefore, being courteous does not
mean having perfect etiquette. I readily admit to having
imperfect etiquette, but I do try to make others comfortable
and show them respect."

Illiana smiles at Punzel.

Punzel adds, "Being courteous does not mean avoiding anger,
either. Because even those who anger us are worthy of respect,
and it is an admirable and worthwhile goal to remember this in
times of disagreement."

Punzel nods firmly.

Punzel explains, "To me, courtesy means remembering that others
around me are people who have feelings and needs and desires,
just as I do. It means considering and respecting those
people's feelings and needs, and not only my own."

Punzel admits ruefully, "None of us are able to do this
constantly. Sometimes we are tired, or our own emotions get the
better of us, or something important distracts our attention.
But the goal in and of itself is something I think worthy of effort."

Mannfred smiles agreeingly at Punzel.

Punzel suggests, "Some may notice that the word 'courtesy'
resembles the word 'court', and this is not an accident. For
courteous behavior is a requirement in any royal court,
including that of Her Majesty Queen Vivienne."

Drusilla nods.

Punzel says, "Those who hope to advance socially in this castle
and earn Her Majesty's notice would do well to cultivate in
their own lives an attention to courtesy and etiquette,
regardless of what path they follow."

Mannfred nods silently.
Illiana smiles at Punzel.

Punzel explains, "Etiquette itself is a set of socially-constructed
rules which define a society's expected expressions of courtesy.
Etiquette tells us when to bow, when to speak, when to stay silent,
when to show affection."

Punzel suggests, "Etiquette can be seen as an outward expression
of courtesy ... or as a tool to help promote courtesy. When we
bow or curtsy to someone, we are acknowledging them, showing
our respect."

Punzel clarifies, "For example, when we stay silent during a
poetry recital, we are showing consideration and respect for
both the poet who stands before us and also the audience who
desire to listen."

Punzel shrugs slightly, "My goals for this group are as yet
relatively unformed. I have thought to offer lectures on
various topics, such as 'Courtesy in Dueling', but any other
suggestions or thoughts are also extremely welcome."

Watchman Artegal nods approvingly.

Punzel smiles hopefully, "If you have any ideas, I would be very
happy to hear them!"

Punzel glances hopefully at Watchman Artegal, Duraze, Drusilla,
Kaine, Quondam, Illiana, Airela and Mannfred.

Punzel raises your pair of thin eyebrows, "Did I put you all to sleep?"

Martel arrives through the west door.
Martel bows courteously.

Kaine shakes his head slowly.
Drusilla says to you, "I have nay any suggestions, sera Viola."
Mannfred smiles at you.

Punzel asks, "Why are you here? What did you hope to learn or
gain from such a group as the Courtesy Circle?"

Mannfred smiles at Punzel, "I wish to learn how to be better at
showing respect to others."

Quondam says, "What about a court of courtesy - to settle those
questions that plague us, like what is the plural of seras"

Duraze smiles gently at Punzel, "At least for my part, Sister, I
must admit I came into this meeting open-minded... Courteousy
is perhaps not my strong point."

Drusilla says, "Why, courtesy, sera. How to behave propperly,
to show respect and be well mannered."

Punzel nods slowly, "These thoughts are helping ..."

Illiana nods, "I had hoped it would help two fold.."

Illiana smiles, "To be amongst others who wish to seek how to
better respect others and share when it is difficult for them
to do so.."

Illiana adds, "And as a tool as an Awakener, so that I, or we,
may better help the new guest understand courtesy."

Drusilla gestures at her silver necklace, "I have just recently
become an Awakener, and to be well mannered and to be able to
teach the newly awakened this as well, is importand for the
task that I must perform."

[Many people nod.]

Punzel asks Duraze, "Why do you feel that courtesy is not your
strong-point? What might help you?"

Duraze humbly admits, "I have always found myself at a point
where I must attempt to be courteous, rather than it coming as
an intuitive thing..."

Punzel nods understandingly, "Does anything help?"

Duraze frowns slightly, "My past was not one which taught me
courteous behavior, and I would like to remedy that. I am
personally interested in the philosophy behind courteousy."

Punzel nods happily, "Oh, good! We can definitely talk about that
in these meetings, too."

[Lots of people smile.]

Punzel glances at Duraze, Drusilla, Kaine, Quondam, Illiana,
Martel, and Mannfred, "Other thoughts, on why you are here,
what you hope to get out of this, what some of our goals might be?"

Drusilla says, "Simply stated, I am here to learn."
Quondam nods appreciatively at Drusilla.

Martel suggests quietly, "To help others understand what proper
etiquette is, even if then choose not to follow it."

Punzel nods agreeingly to Martel.
Punzel touches her cobalt brocade gown.
Punzel pats her black scabbard.
Punzel smiles slightly.

Quondam says, "ummm. I'm not sure how to say this glibly, but
much of my path in the castle at the moment is governed by
discourtesy."

Punzel listens curiously to Quondam, "What do you mean, ser?"

Quondam says, "I'm not entirely sure - but I see others paying
disrespect to their betters."

Mannfred states, "I am here to become a better person...and to
avoid misunderstandings"

Martel nods to Quondam.

Quondam says, "I see things like what is going on now, where
Initiate Santlar is being used as an object of jest, like some
poor beast in a cockfight."

Mannfred frowns at Quondam, "Is she? Why is that?"

Quondam says, "It angers me. I hope that by learning more about
courtesy, if I can be more courteous, then perhaps I can live
in a castle where such things are not quite so frequently"

Punzel smiles gently to Quondam, "Sera Santlar herself agreed to
this bet, ser. She was not forced into anything."

Punzel nods slowly.

Quondam says, "Quite true - and if it were merely that... But
Retribution is using her most harshly."

Quondam says, "But then I suppose Retribution is the opposite
of courtesy"

[Some folks smile.]

Illiana asks, "May I first ask this? As a whole, of us here,
are we seeking a path that also leads us into favor with Her
Majesty as Honored Guests?"

Punzel tells Illiana, "I do not see Honored Guest status as a
direct goal of this organization ... even if favor with Her
Majesty is something which I myself would like to attain."

Illiana smiles at Punzel, "I wished only to express that if it is
a common goal amongst prospective members, that it also may be
a source of support and help in this area as it is, as you
said, a virtue of the Court."

Punzel nods agreeingly to Illiana, "I agree that this
organization could be a help to those hoping to attain such
status. And I know we have one Honored Guest with us already."

Martel says to Illiana, "I think many of us would like to find
favor with her majesty, but I think our goal should be to
behave well, and let our other virtues earn us respect."

Punzel nods agreeingly to Martel, "Aye."

Punzel smiles happily, "I am hoping to better the situation in the
Outer Bailey, and not only help everyone to leave it."

[Many people chuckle or laugh.]

Martel nods to Punzel, "Just to let people know what is considerd
acceptable and what not would help."

Punzel nods agreeingly to Martel.
Mannfred nods agreeingly to Martel.

Punzel admits, "I had thought to give my basic etiquette lecture
at the end of this meeting ... those of you who are Awakeners
... or newly awakened ... may like to stay for it."

Quondam nods encouragingly.
Drusilla nods, "Aye, indeed."
Martel smiles gently.
Martel approaches the east window.
Punzel smiles at Martel, "Though some have heard it before."

Martel nods graciously, "True. I may slip out part way through
but ... rehearing things is not bad."

Punzel nods pensively, "You have all given me many ideas to think
on before the next meeting ... any other thoughts?"

Punzel glances at Martel, Duraze, Drusilla, Kaine, Quondam,
Illiana and Mannfred, "Any other things you might hope
to learn or gain from this group?"

Duraze shakes his head apologetically, "I have no more
suggestion, Sister."

Punzel suggests, "Is there any interest in information on how the
Inner Bailey etiquette differs from the Outer Bailey, for example?"

Mannfred smiles warmly at Punzel, "Friends...this will also act as
a place to meet more people."

Punzel nods agreeingly to Mannfred, "Friends unlikely to treat
one badly, I would think."

[Many folks smile or grin.]

Drusilla nods, "I would like to know of Inner Baily etiquette as well."
Illiana nods to you, "I as well Sister."

Punzel nods to Drusilla, "I will consider some lectures on that,
then, too ... or talks ... I would like to keep this group informal."

Punzel admits, "I think there is much room for a Courtesy Circle
to become very snobbish and stuffy ... I would like to avoid that."

Punzel smiles hopefully.
[A few people nod agreeingly.]
Punzel smiles slightly, "I see no courtesy in snobbishness."
Punzel shrugs.

Drusilla says, "One does not become taller by looking down at
people, that is what I say."

[Lots of people nod agreeingly.]

Drusilla asks Punzel, "Would this eventually lead to a guild of
some sort, sera?"

Punzel nods to Drusilla, "Most likely. But we will have to see
how many are interested. Based on today's attendance, I will
speak to the Lord Chamberlain this eve, on that very topic."

Illiana raises her hand.
Punzel nods to Illiana, "Yes, sister?"

Illiana smiles, "Perhaps Sister, through this Circle, there may
be others who also wish to help you with the ettiquette
lectures you have begun..."

Punzel nods hopefully, "I would adore that!"
Punzel smiles.
Illiana smiles brightly.
Mannfred grins lightheartedly.

Drusilla suggests, "Perhaps someone to hold morning Circles as
well."

Punzel nods to Drusilla, "I can certainly do that, for my
schedule is very flexible."

Punzel smiles happily, "Oh, I am so happy that it was not only me
who thought this a good idea!"

[Lots of people smile happily.]

Quondam coughs.

Quondam says, "There is some confusion that perhaps should be
cleared up"

Punzel nods interestedly to Quondam, "Yes, ser?"

Quondam says, "Origainally The Garden Society taught etiquette.
Then it was perceved by some that that job was taken over by the
Awakeners. Now the function may transfer here."

Quondam says, "It might be best to be aware of that confusion
and prepare to deal with it."

Punzel nods agreeingly, "The Awakeners did never truly take that
over, ser. It was I who did."

Punzel blushes slightly.
Quondam nods.

Martel says gently, "It was never the garden society's as well.
Only Dame Oriana's."

Quondam says, "Quite well"

Punzel nods agreeingly to Martel.

Illiana smiles politely at Quondam, "I think ser, that it
should not be any guilds responsibilty or Duty, but more that
any denizen may take it on if they feel the urge to do so."

Drusilla nods agreeingly at Illiana.

Punzel assures Quondam, "I will make sure that all confusion is
cleared. I believe that etiquette lectures will continue to be
offered in conjunction wit the Awakeners, for example ..."

Punzel shrugs slightly, "It makes sense. It is a need for the
newly awakened."

Punzel smiles, "And many of the folk in this room also belong to
that guild."

Martel nods agreeingly, "And as we learn more abou the Inner
Bailey, the class for the honored guests can be offered again."

Punzel nods to Martel, "Yes, an excellent idea. You can be our
informant."

Punzel explains, "There are others who want to be members who are
not here today ..."

Punzel smiles, "So we should have quite a healthy group. I will
certainly speak to the Lord Chamberlain about what steps are
necessary to form an official guild."

[Lots of people smile.]

Martel says, "I think the main step is having four people who
will sign the charter."

Punzel nods, "I will work on a draft of a charter, based on our
conversation here today."

Drusilla glances at Martel, "The charter?"

Martel nods to Drusilla, "A document stating who we are, what
we will do, how to join. Those type of things."

Punzel explains to Drusilla, "A guild must have a charter
describing its functions and purposes, in order to become official."

Drusilla nods, "Ah. I see."

Punzel says, "I will post my notes on what we have discussed
today, so that those who were unable to be here can learn of all this."

Punzel adds, "And so that they can offer their thoughts, as well."

Punzel asks, "Any more thoughts, or shall I let you all escape
before I give my introductory etiquette talk?"

Punzel shrugs slightly, "Then I guess we are done for today. Any
who are interested to hear the introductory lecture, feel free to stay.
But I will not force you to stay in your seats."

Punzel grins.

Punzel admits, "It is quite elementary. Though Awakeners may find
it interesting, as a guide of some things to tell the newly
awakened."

[Punzel then demonstrated her introductory etiquette lecture.]



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