i've never had to bring up speed with a rp thread partner in this way before. it's mostly my perception that this is a generally more sensitive issue with rpers after seeing how some conversations went down here and on my plurk friend list, where people were discussing the topic being raised with them by others. this rper has been nothing but exceptionally friendly otherwise, so i could be completely off base in my expectations. i've sent them a reply after everyone's earlier encouragement, so i'll see how they take it.