[60] - [Voice]

[doctor_j_crane]

For reasons totally unrelated to the recent flood, I've recently turned my mind to the issue of barge romantic relationships. [Crane sounds awkward just saying it.] Frankly, I'm confused as to why anyone could ever think that it ever would work out. Ignoring numerous public examples of messy arguments between wardens and inmates alike, I've never

Comments

[doctor_j_crane]

The first challenger appears. We'll keep this public, I think. No offense intended, Sergeant, I just don't want to explain myself too many times.

The key difference is that I'm not talking about simple friendships. I'm talking about deeply emotional relationships, that if anything, increases the chances of violence on the barge. Two wardens are in a relationship and one gets attacked. Their partner accordingly murders the inmate who performed the attack. The warden populous naturally does nothing. Thus, the institution of warden romantic relationships is a threat to inmates well being and the justice system of the barge.

The inherent problem regarding the second part of your argument is that the transient, unstable nature of these relationships means that by rights, anyone taking part in such a relationship should remain at a distance. But do they? Somehow I doubt that they would. Wardens don't seem to think that far ahead.

[doctor_j_crane]

I would agree with you, save for the fact that the other wardens aren't operating at the same standard as you are. Most of them are selfish, pretty and cruel. The right thing isn't relevant to what they do.

It's mainly these issues of power relations that are concerning. We'll ignore the issue of warden and inmate relationships, which is clearly an abuse of power whenever it occurs. Provided we follow the assumption that a warden's primary duty is to their inmate, which our one-on-one situation does suggest, the moment that you start a relationship with another warden and value someone equally to your inmate you're failing your duty as a warden.

It is simply to the real world, I'll agree with that. But it's more extreme and it affects others more than any wardens care to admit.

[doctor_j_crane]

We'll have to agree to differ on that.

The world must be ending in regard to your second point, as I agree with you. But the fact remains that there's no way of ensuring that wardens do the right thing. I don't know if it's common practice to consult your inmates regarding relationships, but I imagine that it's not.

Do you currently have any ongoing relationships, Sergeant?

[doctor_j_crane]

If only the Admiral would declare a warden in charge, everyone's lives would be that bit easier.

You sound a little defensive, if you ask me.

[doctor_j_crane]

Does it work? Is there some sort of voting system?

Oh, dear. I think I should try and guess. I'd say Angelica Sexby, if you weren't so scrupulous. I'm sure that you'd both have similar views.

[doctor_j_crane]

That's mainly why I chose her. You're so easy to provoke.

I would suggest your inmate as my second guess, but I think that might be taking it a little too far even by my standards.

[doctor_j_crane]

I will, since you asked so nicely. If it's any consolation, I know you're not really seeing anyone.

[doctor_j_crane]

I'm taking that as a compliment.

[Private]

Oh, it will be. I strongly suspect that it's half because it's me saying it.