The graveyard of elephants

In the realm of Formula Oats, the Ancients increasingly outshine the Moderns. Discouraged young people, who were once promised laurels and crowns, now live in misery, lamenting their abandonment.

Gérard Sans-Blé is the financier behind Luthus. Jehan de Palmer is his substitute driver. Monseigneur Ron Delé holds the position of rector at Mate la Reine. Van Vroum is the reigning champion of the modest Formula Oats series, but despite his talent, the path to the top remains closed to him. THE COUNT OF MONCET recalls that last year, Monsignor Ron Delé promised one of the steering wheels to a promising young page. Don Fernando arrived, Sir Jenson stayed, but patience was required: “Your time will come soon.” MONSEIGNEUR RON DELÉ addresses Ragnar: “My friend, you know the decree that our subtle lords have made for tomorrow. They prefer to choose twenty seasoned springs rather than a valiant Viking who is still finding his feet. Nevertheless, I promise you that next year, you will have a place at Mate la Reine. Sir Jenson will leave for the triathlon, and you will still be able to climb the Raidillon.” RAGNAR KEVIN replies: “I understand your wisdom and your wise decrees; I take your word for it and will comply.”

THE COUNT OF MONCET adds his observation. This year, Monseigneur Ron Delé must tell the young squire that certain promises bind only the gullible and the pious ignorant. MONSEIGNEUR RON DELÉ asks: “What do you think, Magnussen? Certain complications have forced me to break my word of honor. I hope you understand how much this affliction torments my mind and breaks my heart.” RAGNAR KEVIN retorts: “Treason and slander! You promised, Ganelon! Just the day before yesterday, you assured me of a bright future that I could already see blossoming! Who are you, my lord, if not a traitor?”

VAN VROUM protests: “How dare you! Not long ago, he promised me a secure place at the top of the elite.” MY LORD RON DELÉ admits: “I lied to you, Van Vroum; I admit I have been a hypocrite for twelve months. What could I do? There are only two places. Complaining, fighting… it's class warfare.”

JEHAN DE PALMER intervenes: “What about me, gentlemen? Have you forgotten my triumphs at the page school? I stood confidently alongside Gérard-Sans-Blé and saw a steering wheel, but it was just a mirage.” GÉRARD-SANS-BLÉ declares: “It's not talent we're begging for. We want money, cash, banknotes. Young or old, bedridden or junior, it doesn't matter to the destitute—we only see gold. MAX THE MINIMUS, you cry and lament, but you have never seen the real reason for your downfall. Don't blame the times or the lack of money; instead, question your own talent. VAN VROOM replies: “You, to whom everything smiles, you have fun and dance all summer long, but when winter comes, you too will bark at our decline. A fiery buffalo approaches the hour of twilight.”