(Untitled)

[having_lost]

The field is replaced today with a coastline.  Rocky and grey.  Not what he really appreciates at all, too much like home.  He walks to the edge and starts looking for ways downwards. 

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[curtainwizard]

[Light is perched on the edge of the slipway. The grey water is crashing beneath his feet, threatening to wet them: the sketchbook is open. He's drawing his left hand, over and over, but isn't happy with the results. They're flat.

Seeing you pick down the cliff, he closes the book and stands. This is definitely not good.]

[having_lost]

He freezes half way down, when he sees Light. It isn't practical to turn around, he can't stay standing here, he'll fall, and above all he can't come closer than this.

[curtainwizard]

[All in all, it's better to stop him getting down to the beach, Light thinks. Too many weapons at hand. Too many improvised projectiles. He heads up the slipway towards you: the cloaked smile is perceptible.]

Near. I haven't seen you for some time.

[having_lost]

"I've seen you."

[curtainwizard]

You have, have you?

[He doesn't like that thought: that you could see him, when he doesn't see you. The idea of someone trailing him through the corridors, always around the last corner.]

And what have you seen?

[having_lost]

"I've seen you."

He shuffles back, and a stone gives out from under his foot, sending him staggering forward.

[curtainwizard]

So you said.

[Childish repetition: it's symbolic of what's broken. He looks almost enigmatic, as you trip - as if he hasn't noticed. But he does.]

[having_lost]

"Yes, yes, I said."

[curtainwizard]

You don't seem well, Near. Would you like to sit down?

[having_lost]

"Where do you want me?"

[curtainwizard]

[It's suspicious, this biddable nature of yours: Light doesn't trust it.]

Where you are will be fine.

[He's still standing on the slipway, looking down at you. If you sit, the effect will exacerbate itself.]

[having_lost]

Near sits anyways, awkwardly folding downwards, finding a bit of a perch on the path.

[curtainwizard]

[Light smiles inside: this is far better. Him up high, you below. Taking his orders. Just as it should be. It could be another of your games, but somehow he doesn't think it is.]

What brings you in here, Near? Did the door trick you?

[having_lost]

"I wanted somewhere quiet to sit and think. Then I wanted to be near the water."

[curtainwizard]

You like the water?

[He's sure you'd push him in it, if you could. Whatever the nature of the restraints is.]

[having_lost]

"I've never seen it before."