On Being a Companion: One Woman's Reasons

[Emma Florentino]

My thoughts on being a companion are complex, and sometimes self-contradicting. For example, when someone in SL asks me why I chose to become a companion, I’m often tempted to say, “If you’ve never seen Firefly or Serenity, you wouldn’t understand. And if you have seen either of them, there’s no need for explanation.”

Still, much like vampires, gays, or lesbians(1), we in the Firefly ‘Verse are always looking to recruit new members. And so I offer my own reasons—reasons which are constantly evolving as my own understanding deepens.

Similar to the Japanese Geisha, Companions are, first and foremost, entertainers and hostesses. But also like Geishas, we are often far more than that. We are often psychiatrists, therapists, sounding boards, and politicians: we listen, we advise, and, when necessary, we act. At the same time, we remain neutral; that is, a good Companion always tries to act in such a manner that brings no dishonor to either herself or her House.

I am a companion because I have seen and experienced enough of life to understand that whoever you are—prince or pauper, baron or bin collector—sometimes you just need a listening ear, a sounding board, and someone just to comfort you.

(1) - That's a joke, people, one that I as a RL lesbian am allowed to make.

[Beeflin Grut]

It's good to see people working together in lesbian fellowship! (imagines lesbians crashing 2-pint mugs together)

[Emma Florentino]

I don't have a toaster oven, but I do have two cats, hiking boots, and flannel shirts....

[Lysana McMillan]

Wouldn't that be sister lesbians, though?

And I must agree, your foundation sounds quite strong. Welcome to the Guild, meimei!