WHEN YOU ARE THE ONE WHO LIES CLOSE TO ME

[unversed]

THE CATCHALL ROMANCE MEME

HOW WE ROLL:
> Post with your character, put name/fandom/etc in the subject line.
> Someone tags you with one of the scenarios listed below.
> "AND THEN THEY PORKED."
> PORNPROFIT.

THE DEETS:

ONE ➔ CONFESSION: You've been admiring this person from afar, or you've been friends with them for a while. Either way, you've finally worked up the courage to admit how you feel!

TWO ➔ LOVE NOTES: Send your crush personalized little love notes for them to find! Flick them at your crush, or hide them in their shoes! Draw pictures of you two kissing! Heck, even an old fashioned YES/NO checkbox note will do. But you've gotta get their attention with your written prowess! Get creative! Maybe they'll come up to you and you'll find true love!

THREE ➔ KISSING BOOTH: You're working a kissing booth, for whatever reason. Charity, for your school, or just because you got conned into it. But will something special bloom from a chance encounter with a booth guest? Or will you just be embarrassed for life, and punch your friends for getting you into this later?

FOUR ➔ LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT: You've been completely dazzled by this specific person! Your heart races, you have a cold sweat... whoa wtf is happening. You simply must get to know them! Maybe it was meant to be!

FIVE ➔ TSUNDERE STYLE: Sure, you like them, but you can't show that by being cute or cooking them lunch, hell no. You have to punch their shoulder and tug on their hair, obviously. W-what? They're complimenting you? Try not to blush too hard, or shove them too much.

SIX ➔ CAPULET & MONTAGUE STYLE: You're both already taken, or you simply can't be together for some reason! Your families hate each other, your friends hate each other, or you only see each other once a year! But you don't care, you have tonight, and romance is in the air. Maybe you can break away from what can't be, just for one night of fun and love.

SEVEN ➔ NEVER SAY NEVERO: You're super intent on making this person yours! You're willing to go to the extreme to garner their affections! How can they say no to extreme outbursts of love and other hard-to-ignore signs of affection? Though, it might be easier to just ask... but that's not big enough for your love!

EIGHT ➔ TLC: You suddenly feel blue, and you feel the need to be comforted. It's time for some sexual healing.

NINE ➔ SMOOTH OPERATOR: Flowers, candlelight, a bottle of champagne... it's time to woo your sweetheart!

TEN ➔ GRAB SOMEBODY SEXY TELL 'EM HEY: There's something about messing around in a public place, where anyone can walk in on you anytime. Try to keep quiet, the woman over in the bathroom stall next to you might hear you and your partner heating up and fooling around.

Comments

[curepotion]

[ Riku awakens to the owl perched on his bedside table, waiting for his awakening.

... oh. had she awaken earlier than he had? it was a Saturday--a saint's day, no one was awake before eleven today. in his house, anyway. he supposed, with a frown, that there were no days taken off at the castle. he wondered how Roxene dealt with that...

either way, he gently took the note out of its beak and opened it.

his breath caught as he read over her words, heart hammering in his chest. how could he tell her the true reason behind his using charcoal? he couldn't tell her that he was marking hems and holes like a common tailor. she wouldn't look at him the same. he'd sound like a simple commoner, and though Riku had no problem with that, common people weren't explicitly allowed into the castle and allowed to train with her Highness. he looked towards the owl with pleading eyes. ]

What am I supposed to tell her?

[ art? he couldn't draw. if he lied and said that he could draw, and then she asked to see his artwork... that'd be the end of it, right there. lying wasn't the answer. but if he told the truth... he ran a hand through his hair, stomach twisting.

he let the note sit until he made breakfast for his stepbrothers and stepmother. he tried to think of other things charcoal was used for, distracted suddenly. he accidentally cut his finger, and had to start over on a scramble.

not hungry out of nervousness, he sat on the edge of his bed, glancing towards the small window that let in a picturesque view of horizon, the castle gleaming in morning dew and sunlight. what could he... say? what could he say but the truth, really? he looked towards the snowy owl and sighed softly, brushing his feathers down. the plate he's left out for the owl to eat its breakfast is half empty now; he can start writing. ]

I must confess,
I did not think you would ask.
It is an embarrassing trait of me to admit,
but I tailor and tend to the clothes I've worn,
as well as the clothes my family wears.
It is a skill I've grown to be quite advanced in.

[ he sighed.

there, it was on ink.

he couldn't wish it away. ]

I thank you, once again.
It seems I cannot stop thanking you.

- Farrell

[ he lets the owl pluck it from his fingers with its beak, and soar off on its own prerogative.

that owl really is lively. he glances back towards the plate, and then the window, wondering just now--he regrets not wondering earlier--if it has a name. ]

[dualstance]

[ It's very rare for a day of rest within the castle, usually there is something being done in some manner of fashion. Whether it being training sessions or preparing for another gathering or just simple maintenance about the grounds, the servants are normally never without something to do. That's not to say that those of higher position aren't doing any less either.

Things that hadn't gotten to be done is made up on this day, albeit slightly more lazy than normal. Though those with nothing to do spend it relaxing in however manner they please, varying it from person to person.

Roxene herself debates on what she should do during this day, half wondering if she should remain within the castle in case of a missive arriving for her from the snowy owl that seems determined to keep the communication going. Or if she should go out riding through the forest, perhaps to that lake where she heard the singing? Though there is small chance that she would hear it again, it would still be nice to just sit by the waters and play. There are other choices as well, such as spending some time with those she has not seen in a while or taking a trip through the town dressed down in commoners clothing. However, that latter part doesn't appeal to her as much considering she knows of the rumors floating about her and that mysterious suitor.

Normally she would just ignore such talk but well. Perhaps this time it's best to remain away from the center of the gossip mills.

Just as she continues to ponder on what she should do, the distinct sound of a hoot catches her attention, turning her sights to the skies for the white bird. She holds out her arm for it to land on, a smile gracing her face at the sight of something so familiar now. And also at the thought of another letter from him. ]

You set off fairly early this morning, didn't you.

[ The owl hoots in affirmation and she wonders yet again if it can understand what she's saying all the time.

She makes her way to her desk once more, settling down and letting the owl set off her arm so as to not strain her anymore than necessary. Retrieving the note, she reads it, curiosity lighting her eyes at his words. Of all things she had thought of, that is the last that comes to mind, as she merely thought that he would have others to tend to his clothes should they need mending. But hearing that he does them himself makes her wonder, does he merely do it for his own satisfaction or is there something else about it that she just doesn't see?

As much as she would like to question about it, a feeling tells her it's alright not to. ]

It's curious to learn of that,
as I had not expected it at all.
However, it's a good trait to have
and it shows character about you.
I admit that I do not know how to do that myself.
Perhaps you'd be willing to teach me?

[ It probably won't be surprising that she does not know the intricacies of the needle and thread considering her status; however, admitting that she does not know something is rare. It's admitting a weakness about herself and appearing weak in any fashion never sits well with her. ]

There is no thanks needed.
Just the continuance of a smile
is enough for me.

- Roxene

[ Despite not being able to see it, she can feel it with his words, when they are light and happy versus sad and heavy. And if she is capable of making his days just a touch brighter, then she will do her best to continue so. She may not be the best with words, but at the very least her words are honest and true.

Turning to the owl who had been watching her the entire time, she gives a smile while petting its head. ]

I wish I knew your name so that I may call you by that. You've been very helpful these days.

[ An affectionate nip to her hand, yellow eyes looking right into her blue ones, almost as if the owl wishes to speak to her in some way. But that's silly, isn't it? There's no way for it to speak with her.

And yet-

Before she could even speak with it some more, the owl takes up her letter and flies out the window.

Watching it until it disappears from sight, she debates again what to do with her day. ]

[curepotion]

[ his stepbrothers and stepmother left without much word. they would be out for most of the day; each with their own affairs to tend to. the house was clean for the most part, and Riku had nothing to do, nor could he go anywhere. trapped in this little house, again. hopefully thieves didn't think to stop by, or he'd have to do something a little more drastic.

instead of reading, he chooses to take care of the collection of antiques his father had collected on his travels, looks towards the collection his mother had put together as well. he polishes the bow she used to carry with fondness, feeling distinctly guilty that he let it be tarnished in the years that'd gone by. his wounds from his parent's passing has not yet healed, no... but he's starting to accept it as truth, no matter how many times he finds himself waking from nightmares of their sorrowful souls. they are happy, together, in the afterlife.

of that, Riku is sure.

he's surprised to see the owl coming back so soon, moving onto the quiver. it flies straight towards him from the kitchen, like its senses have already been attuned to him. instead of perching on his shoulder or arm, it perches on the piano and sets down the note on the keys, hoots, and stays quiet.

Riku can't help but be amused. ]

You need a name. I can't just call you 'owl'...

[ but he didn't even know the owl's gender. so, a unisex name?

--he was going to think too hard on this. he takes great care to rub his polish-stained hands on his cleaning clothes, not willing to go through a question of why the letter smells so strongly of polish. ]

You would like to learn?
Tailoring is very time-consuming.
I imagine you have other
points of interest to explore...
But if that is your wish,
I would be glad to teach.

Then I will continue to smile.

- Farrell

[ he looks about the room, and feels a smile lightning his face.

yes, he could continue to smile for her. ]

[dualstance]

[ Venturing out of the castle is something she does with particular fondness, especially visiting of places she has taking a liking to. They offer her some bit of solace and peace, being away from the bustle of the palace and having to deal with various affairs, some important and others not so much. At times she might be accompanied by her bodyguard or brother, cousins looking for an adventure or just wanting to spend time with her with lack of a chance to before. But this time, she goes out alone, gathering a few extra things than her usual, a destination in mind as she has only been there once, stumbling upon it on accident.

The lake that she had somehow found is beautiful, the waters tranquil with little disturbing the surface save for the occasional fish appearing, only to disappear seconds later. Settling on the large rocks, feet dipped past the surface, she can't help the small smile at the utter peace she feels from being here. A part of her wonders why she hasn't ventured out here again before but a voice easily tells her why- duties to the castle come first before personal pleasure. And coming to a place that no one else seems to know about, it would be difficult for messengers to reach her should there be an emergency of some sort.

Still, she makes note to herself to come here as often as she is able. If not for the quiet afforded but for the off chance of hearing that voice again. A slim chance but a chance nonetheless.

It's not long before she takes out her flute and begins to play like that day seemingly so long ago, the notes carrying over the waters and filling the whole area. The melody of that song still rings in her head and she adjusts the notes to mimic it flawlessly. Perhaps if it carries far enough, it'll bring the singer back to the lake.

So lost in her playing that she doesn't notice the owl until it nips at her leg, making her stop abruptly. ]

Oh. I'm sorry, I didn't.. know you were there.

[ Somehow the owl manages to give her a certain that causes her to laugh before apologizing again. Although she is surprised that the bird somehow found her in this place, believing that it would just wait for her return to the castle. But something about the owl makes her believe otherwise. An instinct that she cannot explain.

Fortunate for her, she did think to bring parchment and pen, on the off chance that this may happen. ]

The main points of interest I have
involve sword technique and spells.
I believe it is time I learn some variety.
Although I do play an instrument,
so perhaps that's something different.
How about yourself?

[ It's almost embarrassing to be admitting such things, that as a lady she prefers mastering the sword as opposed to doing things that normal women learn at young ages. Though perhaps she cannot be considered normal in this regard. Beginning to train at a young age, there had been no time for anything else.

Despite that, she does not mind admitting to such faults as he had given a confession of his own. ]

Then as long as you smile
I shall as well.

- Roxene

[ Looking to the owl who had taken the time to hunt and finishing its well deserved meal, she sets the letter to the side for whenever it is ready to take off again. ]

We really should give you a name.

[ However, it seems that any fitting names eludes her the more she thinks about. If that's the case, then she shouldn't think about it, right? She takes up her flute again, hoping that it will make the process easier.

She doesn't notice when the owl leaves with her letter clutched tightly in its claws. ]

[curepotion]

[ the trouble with expensive mansions was that thieves liked to pilfer. and with no one out and about outside, it was easy to mistake a house that was occupied with one that was unoccupied--thankfully, Riku's gotten better at shooing them away with sword in hand.

he still sustains bruises and his head spins from being slammed into a wall, however. resting on the stairs outside, he's not surprised to see that the owl swoops down and perches on the mailbox, and then hops over.

he smiles lightly at it; vaguely accomplished. ]

I've been thinking, what about Highwind?

[ it's an excuse to speak and try not to sound as worn as he is. ] It's a noble name, isn't it? Airships, and you're an owl...

[ a quiet hoot, however, makes the facade slip away. he takes the note as it's dropped into his palm, and reads. he can't reply right away--he waits for a good moment, mulling over her words (more like smiling in an utterly lovestruck manner, so much so that it hurt his face) before he goes back inside and leaves the door open for the owl to hop with him. he retreats to the kitchen, taking out a will that he usually writes ingredients on and writes. ]

Sword technique and spells
are something I've left gather dust.
I admire your discipline.
What kind of instrument?
Surely one that sounds pleasant to the ear.
As for myself

[ he stops. and sighs softly, brushes a hand through his hair.

hobbies? skills? he leans his head back and tries to think. well, she knows he tailors already... ]

I've found I have tremendous skill in the kitchen,
and although I find myself
carrying a tune on my own lips,
I wonder if I hold correct notes well.
Perhaps a duet is in order.

- Farrell

[ before he can come back with the owl's (Highwind's?) food, he's already taken off. ]

That owl...

[dualstance]

[ Having received a missive from the castle, Roxene had been prepared to return to the castle as it seems she has an appointment with their healer and mage, Aerith. Or rather it would be accurate to say that her presence is requested by the gentle yet fun-loving woman for some afternoon tea. It's fairly rare that Aerith would call on her outside of necessity, so it's with some wonder as to why the summons. And because it's so rare, it is not something she can simply ignore.

Packing up the few things she had brought with her, she is almost ready to go when the owl returns sooner than she expects. ]

A swift one, aren't you. I bet you could compete with even Uncle Cid's airships...

[ A hoot of pride brings a small laugh from her lips, clearly seeing the slight puff of its chest. And then a sudden thought. One that she should have thought of beforehand. ]

Then I doubt he would be offended if you take his name as well. Highwind, just like my father as well.

[ The owl nudges her hand, as if agreeing to a name before gesturing to the note that he had carried from wherever the giver had been. She pets it (him?), giving to indulgence considering how much the owl has been helping them, before taking up the note and reading its contents. And again, he never ceases to surprise her.

In a second of amusement, it almost seems like Mera Farrell would make the perfect housewife, what with being skilled in tailoring and knowing his way about the kitchen. Quite the opposite of her, really, as she has no such skill in either way like he seems to have. The image of him in one of those frilly aprons that those at the castle wear is rather funny and she can't help the small laugh from it. But then she has to wonder just why it is that he's skilled in such areas when it's clear that he had an interest with the sword. Perhaps something happened that prevents him so, a lack of teacher maybe? Or something else?

Whichever the case, she can't bring herself to ask so as to not bring about sad memories. Maybe one day, when they are face to face and there is more sincerity. But for now, she will bask in the honesty and trust he is giving to her by admitting such things. ]

I play a wooden flute,
crafted and taught by my father.
I dare not say I am a better player
but I do practice as often as I am able.
Perhaps a duet is in order
as I don't doubt your own ability.

[ Thinking about a possible duet, she wonders if he could have possibly been the singer from before?

If so, then they've performed the most beautiful duet together already. It's a far-fetched possibility, but one nonetheless. ]

It sounds like you've many hidden talents.
Maybe one day you'll let me indulge
in a few of those.
Something made by your hands,
I don't doubt there is much care
and thought placed into them.
It's something that is envied.

- Roxene

[ Glancing at the owl that had been sitting patiently by her side, she gives his head another ruffle. ]

I envy you too, you know.

[ Highwind hoots softly, leaning into her caresses before giving her finger a light, affectionate nip. He looks to the note in her hand before meeting her eyes, only to go back to the note. Another hoot as he gestures to her hand.

Getting the idea, she holds it out to him, which he takes before flying off. ]

Now to meet with Lady Aerith..

[curepotion]

[ an afternoon nap sounded good after he wrapped his injuries.

after all, no one was coming back until late if everything went well. this just meant that for once, Riku could curl up in the laundry room, surrounded by old fabrics and a light, soft breeze from an open window, and nap peacefully in a small nook that hid him perfectly from sight. if robbers came back, they'd rob the place blind while not even noticing Riku.

Riku was quite sure that no one could get through the barrier he'd put up, though, so he didn't worry.

not until he heard a hoot and looked up towards the window. ]

Highwind.

[ the owl ruffled its feathers proudly and hopped onto Riku's head--he chuckled quietly and offered his arm instead, the bird flapping a few times before stabilizing and setting the letter that'd been in his beak into his hand.

he almost laughs aloud when he reads; it's funny, it's embarrassing, how warm his chest gets when he reads her scripted words. he tries not to think too much about her father--

he remembers Kain vividly. whenever Kain was around, his father had a way of being exceptionally upbeat, keeping a smile on his face because Kain tended to be completely stoic. those were some of the happiest times... for a few minutes, he doesn't know how to respond.

she's too kind.

perhaps it's the day... the exceptionally dreary day with wounds and blood, that makes his burden feel much, much more than it actually was. days like this never turned out well. ]

If you ask it of me,
I will fashion whatever
dish you would like.

Perhaps your music, too
would lift my heavy heart.
Thank you for your words.

[ ... should he stop writing, now? for good?

he has the sinking feeling that something big is happening, especially with the thieves being numerous as of lately. ]

Please, take care.

- Farrell

[ he holds the letter to his chest, against his heart, and then looks at Highwind.

he hoots impatiently and clacks his beak--Riku runs a hand through his feathers, scratching at the back of his head idly. ]

I think you deserve a break. Or a nap.

[ he lets the owl sleep for a good hour--Highwind spreads out his wings around his shoulders like he's a blanket for Riku, and he closes his eyes, though he keeps an eye open.

an hour is all Highwind will take; once it's up he's back to giving a rather demanding hoot. ]

You're way too impatient for a messenger.

... once you come back, I'll give you a whole fish for your trouble.

[ --that makes him even quicker to snatch the note and fly off. ]

[dualstance]

[ It's not until well after the dinner hour that she's able to return to her rooms, having spent all of the afternoon with Lady Aerith and speaking about the future of the kingdom. Particularly, her involvement with it. Although the conversation started out pleasant, by the time she had left, she's retained something life altering.

She would need to find a king at the upcoming suitor's ball.

The thought would normally excite a young girl- finding a man to marry and spend the rest of their lives blissfully happy. However, the mere thought freezes her with uncertainty, not knowing how she'll even be able to choose a person among dozens. So many people vying for her attention, so many promises of an ever after and yet she can't even think to do give any one of them that same promise.

Except-

After all this time, she still thinks of him. The lost boy who'd been a good friend to her, understanding and accepting. The one that somehow got away from all this.

But then again, there is someone else. Someone who feels eerily familiar that she almost wants to say it's him. That he'd been found finally after all these years. Unfortunately, she doesn't have all the proof yet. Though Lady Aerith did have a knowing smile in parting...

A sigh escapes her as she returns to her room, only for the tiredness to disappear for a few seconds at the sight of Highwind waiting patiently for her at the window sill. He greets her with a hoot, flapping his wings so that her attention is solely on him, which earns a small laugh from her. Truly this owl is remarkable in his own right and she has to wonder again how special he is. ]

I apologize for keeping you so long.

[ Ruffling his feathers, he nips her fingers when she makes to stroke his head, nudging her to the letter instead. Now that she's here, he seems a little impatient and unbeknownst to, wishes to get that prize promised to him from her future intended. Never mind that she has yet to realize it.

Taking up the letter and reading its contents, Roxene can't help the silly smile gracing her face. With her earlier thoughts of that lost boy, she can't help but wonder. There are some similarities, certainly, and Mera Farrell hasn't been known until that one meeting at the gala not too long ago. It's a slim chance but one she wants to believe in. Perhaps she should have confided in Lady Aerith about this as well. Maybe tomorrow, before the upcoming events begin to take over her time. ]

I look forward to the day
when both of our hearts can be lifted.
It seems that they can be eased
simply from each other.

The days to come shall be busy,
as a most important ball will be hosted here.
I sincerely hope to see you there.

And you as well, my good lord.

- Roxene

[ She didn't know when she would be able to reply next, knowing that the days to come will be laden with preparations and more lessons from her mother about the kingdom. Hopefully he will not be discouraged by the finality in her words of this letter and that she will meet him again soon. So much hope.

Bringing the parchment to her lips, brushing the paper as if leaving a kiss, she folds it up and holds it out for Highwind to take. She smiles with fondness. ]

It seems like this is the last we'll meet. I do hope you take care of yourself from now on.

[ The owl nuzzles against her in return fondness before taking the note and flying through the darkening sky. ]

[curepotion]

[ there's a certain clamor in the kitchen; it seems there's a rat.

Riku's well aware there are no rats in the house, but both his stepmother and Reno both seem to agree they saw a peck of black fur scurry back into the wall. Riku just scowled at both of them and prepared dinner with the ingredients they'd brought back, the salted meat that he kept, and the bread he'd made early on in the day. as soon as they're out of his sight and out of the kitchen, he closes the wide doors and shuts them out, opening his windows in anxious wait for Highwind's return.

it's halfway through preparations that he does return, and Riku has to hand it to the owl: he's persistent. and polite, despite his impatience--he doesn't wander over to the food, but glides over to the far end of the table, sets the note before him, and gives a pleasant hoot. ]

Hold on.

[ he stirs the soup three times before he goes back to the icebox, taking out a fresh fish and setting it down outside, in the small flower box that hangs from the window.

he takes a moment to check the pots and oven before he sits down to read.

ah... he knew something like this was coming. it'd been in the air.

but he'd have to find out about this 'ball', now, even if he probably wouldn't be able to go. he hesitates, looks at Highwind, and wonders if he should pen a note to reply. he seems to be enjoying his dinner, after all--is there really a need? ...

maybe it's best to let it go for now. it's unlikely he'll make it to the ball, being cornered like this. he'll keep an ear for news, to see why this ball is so important--it's none of the noble's birthdays, he knows that.

either way... now may be a good time to let go and slink back into the shadows, unless it really calls his attention.

maybe once his punishment is lightened, he can go to another ball and see her again, dance around the ballroom with his hand on her waist. he can hope, at least. he folds her letter to him carefully and tucks it away with his journal for safekeeping, and goes to the window. it's dark now. he can see all the shining stars, and he lets his gaze linger on the constellation they'd agreed on beforehand.

and then he pulls back, going to finish dinner. Highwind, at least, should have two places to stay. though the owl hoots at him with impatience, he only says: ]

She's busy right now. I'll wait until I hear about the ball, and then I'll send something.

If you want to visit her, go. I'm not stopping you.

[ Highwind, of course, ruffles his feathers in a grudgingly accepting way.

he'll return to Roxene in the morning, maybe. with no news, but a nip for good luck.

he'll just keep an eye on these two. ]