[Video] Clearly the most important thing right now.

[marvelous_murderbot]

[She waves gently as the feed comes on. Behind her there is a large sheet, divided into three categories: 'Heard of', 'Not heard of', and 'Variance'.]

[Her name and Della's are written, in perfect letters, in the first column.]

So I was reading, earlier in the month and had a conversation with Della. Interestingly, despite our different universal backgrounds, we had both heard the trope 'The Butler Did It' - though the books on the train have, thus far, not revealed why this trope is a thing in either of our universes.

As a result, I am curious: in how many of your universes in this something known as well, and are there any variants? For those unaware, the trope refers to fictive mysteries, specifically, wherein the murder taking place in a manor house is presupposed to have been committed by the butler, or head servant.

[Because it wouldn't be Guri if she didn't break it down.]

Oh, and I am unsure what to vote for in terms of room. Perhaps something for the arts? Would that not benefit everyone most?

[Later, she adds a text updated:]

My official vote is for 'pool'.

Comments

Video

[sos_pilot]

Ahahaha! You really did it!

[marvelous_murderbot]

[She smiles]

Well, of course. It was a curiosity unanswered.

[sos_pilot]

You know, people never hear the second part of that old saying.

Curiosity killed the cat, but satisfaction brought it back.

[marvelous_murderbot]

[She laughs.]

We have similar sayings, though the creature depends on locality.

[sos_pilot]

... I can't help but ask, any about ducks?

[marvelous_murderbot]

Oh, yes, there's one about 'sitting ducks' if you do not move when taking fire. There are a number of species referred to as 'ducks' across the known universe - though none have attained sentience as your species has, that I know of.

[sos_pilot]

... I can't tell whether I should be insulted or complimented.

[ leaning towards insulted, ngl. ]

[marvelous_murderbot]

[She looks apologetic about that.]

It is not a flattering one, no. But there is also one about taking to a skill or situation like a “duck to water,” which references confident and natural ability.

[sos_pilot]

[ She tilts her head back and forth a bit, trying to decide. ]

... I'll take what I can get. I'd prefer "like a duck to sky", but beggars can't be choosers.

[marvelous_murderbot]

I've always wondered about that. Why water instead of sky. I think it has to do with the fact that when the phrase was originated, organics were much more concerned with sinking than soaring.

[sos_pilot]

Well, sinking into the ocean is terrifying.

... Not that I'd ever be afraid of it.

[ yes she would. ]

[marvelous_murderbot]

[She nods]

It would be greatly concerning. In any event, at least that one is based in admiration of inherent skill.