you know, if the Tres Horny Boys were to retake the BOB initiation test with all their memories, I think their choices would be different

because a Magnus with memories of the Power Bear’s lessons wouldn’t feel the need to prove himself and choose “Strongest” and with all the memories returned of risking his life to save others, of staying behind to help while the Hunger attacked, of running back to save Fisher, he would have accurately picked “Bravest”

and a Merle who remembered all his meetings with John, how to be kind and accepting of others no matter what they’ve done to you or the mistakes they’ve made, who remembered how truly powerful unconditional forgiveness can be would pick “Strongest”

and a Taako who could remember all his lessons and spells, who retained all his memories of training with his sister and perfecting his magic, and who didn’t have large gaps in his memory and mind - a Taako who remembered how to be wise and understanding, how to be observant about the thoughts and emotions of others would correctly choose “Smartest”

and I can’t help thinking that Lucretia would expect those choices, and when they chose differently, it just felt wrong. and maybe she had already realized when they appeared, when Taako was aloof and distant, when Magnus was gruffer than usual, and when Merle was meaner than she remembered, but seeing them pick what they did, I wonder if she started to realize how much her choice had changed them