Hmm, that's where we differ. I always thought there was a modicum of knowing, of some bare measure of affection between them which might have its explanation in the length of their history, and possibly less bitter beginnings. And while I would never picture Malice as being as 'gentle' as Vierna (who was always psychotic by Surface standards), I always appreciated the notion that she might actually give a damn in some fashion. But then, I've read a couple of good fics taking this position. *shrug*

Intelligence of a spoon! *sporfleLOLgiggle* See, the HUGE problem with the whole scenario is that this is a quite recent development, and in the recent FR timeline Catti-Brie is in her mid to late thirties, and apparently not seeing any difficulties to surmount in taking up a craft that is a lifelong committment, usually begun in early childhood, or at least in one's teenaged years. If significant mention were even MADE of this, I wouldn't mind as much, but...no. It's just 'Oh, she feels like being a mage now.' Thus I say once more, with feeling: WTF.