[Completed AIM Log]
WHO: Rosa Farrell and Cain Highwind.
WHAT: Rosa invites Cain to have breakfast and they discuss some serious business.
WHERE: In a quite corner lobby of Crimson Dragon Inn.
WHEN: After Rosa meets Nodame, morning.
Rosa: She had been skirting the issue and avoiding any questions of real significance outside of greetings and other such common pleasantries. It had been going on for a few days now. Enough for her to begin to focus on how to improve the situation she was in now, or how to get by. As opposed to vainly hoping for a day that she would just wake up one morning in the safe and unharmed kingdom of Fabul. She might not have ended up there at all, however, had it not been for the encounter she had met in meeting Nodame. With the wicker basket filled with warm and sweet smelling pastries in the crook of one arm, she stood in front of Cain’s door, wondering if it might have been presumptuous. And then wondering again why she would think such a thing. They were good friends.
Drawing in a breath, Rosa finally knocked lightly on the door, the sound almost barely there. “Cain, it’s me, Rosa,” she announced only slightly louder. “Would you care to take breakfast to me?”
Cain: Cain had spent the past few days trying to stay out of the inn, not because he didn't want to see Rosa -quite the opposite really- but it was hard for him to spend time with her, it reminded him of his failings and the unrequitted feelings he had for her. Luckily, she caught him today, it was still quite early and he had just washed and dressed (he was kit out in his armour as usual, it was much easier for him to have his face covered so he kept the helm on even indoors). "Rosa.." he murmured to himself as he heard her sweet voice. He would... like nothing better than to share his breakfast with her. Walking to the door of his room he opened it to see her, she was as pretty as ever, even in a strange and unfamiliar world like this. "You look..." he broke the sentence and replaced it with another "Yes, I haven't eaten yet."
Rosa: It was much better to actually see and face him than to dwell on the wait or meeting to come. The mind had a tendency to wander when it was not rooted to one flow of thought. She straightened slightly, dispelling any nagging notions or doubts that crept up in the back of her mind, when the sound of the door began to open. She was relieved to see him, if nothing else. Her expression was somewhat curious, as he began, but by the time the sentence did finish it had softened to a small and simple smile. “I’m just in time, then,” she replied easily enough. She did note that he was dressed as he usually was. There was no need to travel for a time, or battles to fight. So long as he was in the privacy of his own room though, or even outside of it, she was in no place to criticize presentations.
She did often encourage Cecil, on the other hand, to remove his dark helm when there was absolutely no need for it. “Shall we eat in the lobby?” Rosa suggested, pivoting slightly to be out of the doorframe. “There are not many people gathered there yet.”
Cain: "That'll be fine." he said as he followed her downstairs. The woman that he desired so strongly was there, offering to share a meal with him, and he had no idea what to say to her. All of the things he wanted to talk to Rosa about were inappropriate or... complicated, he didn't want to burden her like that. He only wanted her to be happy... even if that meant her ending up with Cecil. "How have you been?" he querried, a harmless question he thought.
Rosa: The trek back down the way she had come was relatively brief, considering how large the Inn was, given all the people it held and the adjoining tavern. It was strange to see the place so empty given how raucous the entire establishment was in the later hours. The silence was neither awkward or completely comfortable, and she welcomed the inquiry, even if she did feel somewhat sorry that she had not been keeping in touch quite as well as she should have. Especially when her room was only down the hall from his. “I’ve been…well,” she answered colloquially enough. The hesitation in itself made the reply less credible, but she did try to justify it. “It just takes some getting used to, this place.”
She picked a place where a small gathering of sofas framed a low glass table, everything within the vicinity warmed by the embers of a dying fire. The city itself was too hot for something like a hearth, but the nights were cool, and the morning was just warming. “Here, take whatever you’d like,” Rosa told him as she set the basket down at the table and folded back the cloth, revealing its assorted pastries and glassed beverages. “Have you found a place to work yet?” She began, sitting at the edge of the plush seat behind her.
Cain: "Thanks." he glanced at the basket of pastries, which contained more than plenty for just the two of them, and tried to spy something plain. Cain wasn't terribly fond of sweet food, especially in the mornings, but he would probably eat anything that Rosa offered him. He picked out something that somewhat resembled a danish, and with his other hand he pulled off his dragoon helm. As much as he wanted to keep it on, he couldn't eat with the 'beak' of his helmet just above his lips. He took a healthy bite of the pastry and after swallowing it down he added "No, not as such... Heh, I don't think there's a demand for Dragoons here."
Rosa: Rosa been watching the contents of the basket, still at somewhat of a loss despite going through the first round of selections. Her eyes lifted of their own accord when Cain made the movement to finally remove his helm. Her breath stilled for just a moment, some strange nuance in the deft action itself reminding her of something, someone, it shouldn’t have. Gold hair, not silver. Emerald eyes, not amethyst. Blinking to break that vainly hopeful trance, Rosa quickly lowered her face and grabbed the first piece available to her, a kiwi and tangerine tart. She might have commented that it had been a while since she had seen Cain, if not for her near blunder. “No, I don’t suppose there is.” She quickly said, “But if it’s any assurance, there doesn’t seem to be one for White Mages, either. Though, I have made contact with a man that has experience as a nurse. We may be opening a clinic in Rivelata.”
Cain: "There's always need for someone like you." Cain said without thinking, adding "someone who can heal." in a moment of panic. It wasn't like him to just let these emotions just slip out. He scolded himself mentally and took a second bite of his sweet breakfast. He wasn't that surprized that Rosa had already found a way to help people... She always strived to make other people's lives easier, that was the sort of woman she was; kind and gentle. Cain was avoiding Rosa's gaze, he knew that if he looked her in the eyes he'd be caught by them... Without his helm on Cain was a lot easier to read, the subtle expression he wore was conflicted, content in Rosa's presence and... somehow very sad at the same time.
Rosa: “If there weren’t, at least it would mean that no one was hurt.” Rosa returned modestly. There wasn’t too many other ways that she could take his compliment, without assuming too much, that was. The tart was still delicious and sweet, even though the mood was slightly more somber than she had envisioned it. Perhaps it was heavier due to the content of their discussion, their circumstances and direction while trapped in that new and unknown place. But all the same, food was more appetizing with company. “How about… a place to stay?” She eventually asked, touching on the next question she had in mind. “Did you plan to remain at the Inn? I was thinking that… I might try to stay here as long as I’m able. Settling into a more permanent location doesn’t feel… right.”
Cain: "Mmm..." Cain murmured, eyes downcast to his lap to distract himself from looking at Rosa "I'll probably do the same," he admitted "I feel that... if I feel too comfortable in this... strange place, then going back to Baron would alienate me." Even more so then nower days, ever since the ordeal with Golbeze Cain had never really felt that welcome in Baron, and he didn't blame them... All of the dreadful things he had done... He was just glad that they didn't pelt rocks at him when he walked in through the city gate. Shaking those thoughts from his head he finally added "I... know we wont be here long, it's just not where we belong."
Rosa: She nodded, glad that he understood exactly what she meant to say, but couldn’t quite bring herself to make into words. Or so she had believed given the way of her interpretation. “We should always be welcome in Baron. It’s our home,” Rosa began, “But the way things have been now, I don’t know what’s happening within the castle’s very walls.” She paused, not really sure how to explain or inform Cain of the situation that she had been left with. Would it begin to worry him, too? She really hoped that they wouldn’t be there long, in order to attend to the rising turbulence Baron had been left with. “I miss everyone.” Rosa told Cain quietly. She missed Cecil. But she didn’t have to say it directly for him to know that. He might have very well known that better than anyone else. “For whatever it’s worth, I’m glad that you’re here, too.” She told Cain. She couldn’t imagine staying alone there.
Cain: That was worth more than she probably could have ever realised... Cain worried he was in the way, that he made Rosa feel awkward, and he didn't want that. He only wanted her to be the content and beautiful woman she was. His feelings were... torn, he had known Cecil since childhood, they had been friends, rivals, and more recently... enemies. He couldn't work out whether he wanted to see him to just... talk to him about things or to never seen him again ever... If Cain had been a more selfish man he might have been tempted to make the most of the time he had alone with Rosa here to his advantage, but he couldn't, even if he wanted to... "Don't worry." he tried to sooth "We can get back, and..." a sad smile crept across his lips "everyone will welcome you with open arms, Rosa..."
Rosa: “Thank you, Cain.” Rosa said, glancing up in order to smile toward him from across the seating area. Twin tiers knit, just barely, over her brows when it seemed his expression did not match that same sentiment of a happy reunion. “You know that… we’re all there for you too, don’t you?” She couldn’t help but to say, as if she needed to tell him, lest he not actually know when he should have. “Of course, with the way things were when I left them, I don’t know if they’d welcome any of us. Especially Cecil.” She had finally spoken his name, but like she had felt before meeting with Cain, it was much easier when it was done. Now was as good a time to inform Cain of Baron’s circumstances as any. For what she felt was the first time.
“When you both went to the Village of Mist and disappeared, I was so worried. But the King wouldn’t send anyone after you two, so I went myself. I found Cecil, but just when we were going to see to the safety of the Crystal in Fabul, I ended up coming here to find you.” More urgently, she began to ask, “Do you have any idea of why the King wants the Crystals? Or who ‘Golbez’ is? He was just recently appointed by the King himself.”
Cain: She must have suffered from some sort of amnesia on coming here... But how could he tell her what had happened, she didn't even know of his betrayal, let alone the details of the crystals or the truth about the moon... What torture. "I..." he began, a lump in his throat that threatened to silence him altogether "Much... has happened, Rosa. Do you not remember?" How could she not?
Rosa: Her expression furrowed slightly, her memory having been quite clear. Or so she had thought it was. From Cain’s stance, however, she suddenly felt as if she knew, or recalled, very little at all. If anything, it was almost as if he knew the answers. And she should have, as well. “I remember…” She began, thinking very carefully. Having finished her food, she gently dusted off her hands over the carpet and sat back. “Meeting a man called Yang when passing through Mt. Hobs. Damcyan had just been attacked. We feared that Fabul was next. But, just before the last horizon… I saw Rivelata. Not Fabul.” And that was about the extent of it. “What is the last thing that… you remember?” She asked, almost afraid to.
Cain: And his reply was a handful of the most difficult words he had ever uttered to Rosa "... The last thing I recall is getting an invitation from you... Asking me to attend yours and Cecil’s wedding." he left out the fact that he hadn't attended. And with that said he finished off his breakfast and began to wonder if he should be making his leave... News like that would probably shock Rosa and him being there may not... help.
Rosa: “But that’s…” Rosa began, grasping for any amount of words to say in reply to something quite unexpected, if not downright astonishing. Cecil had been much too preoccupied. With his position in the kingdom, his own profession and state of affairs, training, existence, as a Dark Knight. She was there to support and encourage him, but something as sudden as marriage…? She wasn’t quite sure how she should feel about the news. Hearing about her own wedding. Shocked, happy, or even uncertain. In her mind, it had always lingered there, but it had hardly been the right time. She struggled to grasp for an appropriate response, or series of questions, until she finally decided to back track and linger on what had been bothering her most. At least until this sudden news took its place. There was an anomaly in time. There had to be. Cain was neither rash nor prone to strange jokes.
“Then… Baron.. the Crystals and their kingdoms… They’re safe?” She asked. “Maybe I’m not supposed to know… At least not before my time. But.. please just tell me that much.”
Cain: "Baron is... safe." this was torture for Cain and it didn't help that Rosa was the one doing the torturing... had it been anyone else he could have turned away, but he couldn't do that to her... "The Crystals were taken... There were... complications." and he was one of them. Cain just prayed that she wouldn't pry into the matter...
Rosa: She lowered her head, pale yellow strands framing the side of her face as they slipped from her right ear. It wasn’t exactly what she wanted to hear, but she had wanted to hear the truth all the same. Even if it was difficult. Still, she could not quite imagine anything like a wedding during a time that there was war or tribulations running throughout the land, obviously involving them. It had to be after. Or something might have happened to force the sudden arrangement? She didn’t want to think so negatively. It could have been the completely opposite. No matter which path, though, she felt more and more as if it were not something that she yet know or hear. Especially from Cain. “I see,” she said simply and quietly. “Thank you, Cain. I appreciate your insight. I’m sure that everything will be all right, no matter what.” They had to be. “For all of us.”
Cain: He wasn't so convinced, his life had been difficult as of late -thanks to his own actions- and it didn't feel like it was going to get easier any time soon (whether he was here or back home). "You're welcome." he said in a small voice "I was shocked to hear that you couldn't recall these things, maybe it was the shock... But... do not worry... Your friends attend your wedding, the world is at peace... All the hardships are over for you, you have... a wonderful life to return to in Baron."
Rosa: She was glad to hear it. That reassurance and safety of a secure future. In contrast to the completely uncertain one. Of course, she was still there in Rivelata, making no progress towards that path one way or another, but it was something. The world, and Cecil, would be safe. All of that was everything she could have ever hoped to hear. But the more she listened to that good fortune, the more her smile faded, watching him speak. “Cain,” she called him out the trance, no longer needing, and perhaps it would be best not hearing, things she shouldn’t have yet known. “Thank you. It’s enough. It’s not me that I was most concerned of. It’s the world. Baron, and our companions, of whom you are amongst.”
With a soft sigh, she eased herself down to kneel on the carpet with her arms folded across the table. His eyes had been downcast and avoidant for a long while now, so lowering her own stance enabled her to better catch his gaze. “Listen to me, Cain. Life is whatever we make of it. Wonderful, or even otherwise. So, here, or even back in Baron, we’ll do our best. Just don’t forget that we’re there, and here, to help one another.” It was all they really could do, no matter what the circumstances. She only hoped that she would be able to see him smile more.
Cain: That had caught him unaware, Cain hadn't expected Rosa to do something like that and it was as he had first feared... Looking into her eyes was near-fatal for the dragoon. Those soft, smiling eyes framed by such a serene and beautiful face. Rosa looked angelic, Cain had always thought so, and even now after all that had happened she was just as kind to him. "... Rosa." he murmured as his sad expression softened somewhat. Seeing her like this reminded him of why he lov--was so fond of her. "Don't worry about me, please. Whether I'm here or in Baron it... doesn't matter, I'll be fine."
Rosa: The woman nodded and let the issue rest, not feeling as if she had reached the sort of closure or certainty she was hoping for. During the course of their conversation, the focus had shifted, somewhat. But as she had said, for now, it was all that she could do. For him or anyone else. After a few brief moments, she pressed her palms against the surface of the table, pushing herself up to stand. Looked around the same room, now with more people filtering about, she was back in Rivelata. “All right, then. Let’s focus on whatever’s to come.” She began with a renewed tone. “This gala is very out of place, but I think it would be a good opportunity to perhaps catch a glimpse of the Queen or any new information.” Without, perhaps, enough discretion or consideration she asked, “Would you care to accompany me?” There was no one else she could think of as a close ally to carry out such an investigation with.
Cain: His heart skipped a beat, Cain realized that this request probably wasn't intentionally a romantic one in the slightest, but... He couldn't help but feel excited. He had only dreamed of taking Rosa to a ball, her arm linked in his, watching her smile and turn to whisper to him what she thought of the event and holding her gently in his arms as they danced together. He blinked to try and shake off the overwhelming thoughts and replied -somewhat delayed- "I would love to, Rosa..." his mind was racing ahead of itself, he began to wonder whether it was formal or not, ought he buy something for the occasion? Was she going to be in a... ball dress? "When is it?" he asked to try and distract himself from these thoughts.
Rosa: He seemed to be very slightly more cheered with the prospect of the ball itself, or so she had led herself to think. A ball might lighten anyone’s mood if they were open to the idea, and Rosa was glad that Cain had agreed. It might be fun, in the end, to have something to do even as friends. And most importantly, they might have been just a step closer to the truth. If not able to be distracted from the same situation and locations at the same time.
“I believe that it is in just a few more days,” Rosa mused, “The Queen made an announcement a little while ago, though, so it would probably be best to begin making arrangements as soon as possible. Just a few costumes should do it.” She didn't suppose that 'simple' was as easily attainable as flamboyant, but so long as they were accepted into the ball, with the required accompaniment, the plan was well underway.
"I will go to find a place with costumes, and let you know where you might be able to have one fitted." She suggested, beginning to pace the front of the hearth. "You could have a look at the building where it will take place. Châteaubriant Ballroom, I believe it was. See if, perhaps, there is a way to get into it or how much people know about it. Or if it might even be dangerous... Does that sound all right?" She didn't often plan so many things out, but all her time with Cecil, especially traveling, had her inspired to think ahead.
Cain: Cain was impressed, he always knew that Rosa was a practical and forward-thinking young woman but she was so... determined and bright, he smiled and the expression just visible under his helm. "That sounds fine, I'll go there this afternoon." with a small tinge of humour in his voice Cain added "Heh, you can look for a costume you think will suit me while I'm there, perhaps?"
Rosa: He had replaced the mask which obscured his features, but at least she could still see his smile. It reassured her far more than his words and what he had informed her of, no matter how apparently optimistic. "I can," Rosa replied quickly, clasping her hands behind her with a reaffirmed nod of her head. "So long as you trust my tastes in clothing, at least. I promise I won't choose anything you would outright refuse to wear. But, I'm afraid whatever I choose won't have you wear that helm," she warned him with a small giggle.
Cain: "Haha!" he laughed! It had been such a long time since Cain had really felt comfortable enough in anyone's presence to laugh... Rosa could do that to him though, she just had one of those charming personalities that melted away his coldness. "Oh, I see!" he said good-naturedly "Well, I suppose I will just have to wait and see then. I look forward to seeing what you pick though."
Rosa: Laughter was a most wonderful sort of melody, and Cain's was no exception. It certainly made the morning, and the rest of the day's outlook, appear that much more invigorating. She had her doubts before concerning the ball. Now, she might have even begun to look forward to it. If not even the selection their attire. "I'll have it delivered to your room," she told him. "I'm actually more worried on if I'll ever be able to decide on something for myself.."
Cain: "Ah, you'll look lovely I'm sure, you always do." That just... slipped out. He hadn't meant to say that out loud, only think it, and although he hadn't said anything terribly... embarrassing, it still made Cain feel self conscious to have complimented Rosa quite so openly.
Rosa: Rosa gave him a modest smile and returned the compliment. It was common enough for the vernacular, so she didn't quite understand why he would have seemed hesitant after the fact. "Why, thank you. You're the same, yourself. At least whenever I'm able to see you." Both literally, concerning his helm, and figuratively as well. "Let's try to meet more often, all right?" She suggested, having had the feeling that he had been avoiding her of late. She was guilty of the same. Now that he had told her what she needed to hear though, there was no reason to.
Cain: It painned Cain so to see Rosa, he hadn't been able to cope with meeting her face to face, and now that he was with her he remembered why. Everything about Rosa enticed him, from her gentle nature to her soft way with words. His feelings felt all the more inappropriate now that she knew about her destined marriage to Cecil. "Very well, I've been busy as of late so you must forgive my absence.." was his best excuse.
Rosa: "I see. That's all right." She told him, somewhat less convincing than his own explanation. In the back of her mind there was a constant warning that she should not have been so forward, considering their past. But she could not simply ignore him as if he never existed, leaving him alone. He was a precious friend, if nothing else, and it had been so long ago... "Well then, I'll be off. If I don't get started now I may very well not be finished before nightfall."
Cain: "Alright, I trust your tastes then, Rosa." he stood up as she announced her departure. "Take care, I look forward to seeing you again soon." He wasn't sure how to bid her farewell, once upon a time they would've held each other tenderly in their goodbyes, nowadays it was... a different story altogether.
Rosa: Rosa nodded as he stood to face her, not allowing the time to stretch on and be filled with nothing but a sort of immobile standstill. Where they were both frozen in place, expecting something to happen. "I'll be off then. We'll dine together by tomorrow morning. I'll try to find something that's not so much like a dessert." And, turning to go with a small wave, she was careful not to look back.
WHAT: Rosa invites Cain to have breakfast and they discuss some serious business.
WHERE: In a quite corner lobby of Crimson Dragon Inn.
WHEN: After Rosa meets Nodame, morning.
Rosa: She had been skirting the issue and avoiding any questions of real significance outside of greetings and other such common pleasantries. It had been going on for a few days now. Enough for her to begin to focus on how to improve the situation she was in now, or how to get by. As opposed to vainly hoping for a day that she would just wake up one morning in the safe and unharmed kingdom of Fabul. She might not have ended up there at all, however, had it not been for the encounter she had met in meeting Nodame. With the wicker basket filled with warm and sweet smelling pastries in the crook of one arm, she stood in front of Cain’s door, wondering if it might have been presumptuous. And then wondering again why she would think such a thing. They were good friends.
Drawing in a breath, Rosa finally knocked lightly on the door, the sound almost barely there. “Cain, it’s me, Rosa,” she announced only slightly louder. “Would you care to take breakfast to me?”
Cain: Cain had spent the past few days trying to stay out of the inn, not because he didn't want to see Rosa -quite the opposite really- but it was hard for him to spend time with her, it reminded him of his failings and the unrequitted feelings he had for her. Luckily, she caught him today, it was still quite early and he had just washed and dressed (he was kit out in his armour as usual, it was much easier for him to have his face covered so he kept the helm on even indoors). "Rosa.." he murmured to himself as he heard her sweet voice. He would... like nothing better than to share his breakfast with her. Walking to the door of his room he opened it to see her, she was as pretty as ever, even in a strange and unfamiliar world like this. "You look..." he broke the sentence and replaced it with another "Yes, I haven't eaten yet."
Rosa: It was much better to actually see and face him than to dwell on the wait or meeting to come. The mind had a tendency to wander when it was not rooted to one flow of thought. She straightened slightly, dispelling any nagging notions or doubts that crept up in the back of her mind, when the sound of the door began to open. She was relieved to see him, if nothing else. Her expression was somewhat curious, as he began, but by the time the sentence did finish it had softened to a small and simple smile. “I’m just in time, then,” she replied easily enough. She did note that he was dressed as he usually was. There was no need to travel for a time, or battles to fight. So long as he was in the privacy of his own room though, or even outside of it, she was in no place to criticize presentations.
She did often encourage Cecil, on the other hand, to remove his dark helm when there was absolutely no need for it. “Shall we eat in the lobby?” Rosa suggested, pivoting slightly to be out of the doorframe. “There are not many people gathered there yet.”
Cain: "That'll be fine." he said as he followed her downstairs. The woman that he desired so strongly was there, offering to share a meal with him, and he had no idea what to say to her. All of the things he wanted to talk to Rosa about were inappropriate or... complicated, he didn't want to burden her like that. He only wanted her to be happy... even if that meant her ending up with Cecil. "How have you been?" he querried, a harmless question he thought.
Rosa: The trek back down the way she had come was relatively brief, considering how large the Inn was, given all the people it held and the adjoining tavern. It was strange to see the place so empty given how raucous the entire establishment was in the later hours. The silence was neither awkward or completely comfortable, and she welcomed the inquiry, even if she did feel somewhat sorry that she had not been keeping in touch quite as well as she should have. Especially when her room was only down the hall from his. “I’ve been…well,” she answered colloquially enough. The hesitation in itself made the reply less credible, but she did try to justify it. “It just takes some getting used to, this place.”
She picked a place where a small gathering of sofas framed a low glass table, everything within the vicinity warmed by the embers of a dying fire. The city itself was too hot for something like a hearth, but the nights were cool, and the morning was just warming. “Here, take whatever you’d like,” Rosa told him as she set the basket down at the table and folded back the cloth, revealing its assorted pastries and glassed beverages. “Have you found a place to work yet?” She began, sitting at the edge of the plush seat behind her.
Cain: "Thanks." he glanced at the basket of pastries, which contained more than plenty for just the two of them, and tried to spy something plain. Cain wasn't terribly fond of sweet food, especially in the mornings, but he would probably eat anything that Rosa offered him. He picked out something that somewhat resembled a danish, and with his other hand he pulled off his dragoon helm. As much as he wanted to keep it on, he couldn't eat with the 'beak' of his helmet just above his lips. He took a healthy bite of the pastry and after swallowing it down he added "No, not as such... Heh, I don't think there's a demand for Dragoons here."
Rosa: Rosa been watching the contents of the basket, still at somewhat of a loss despite going through the first round of selections. Her eyes lifted of their own accord when Cain made the movement to finally remove his helm. Her breath stilled for just a moment, some strange nuance in the deft action itself reminding her of something, someone, it shouldn’t have. Gold hair, not silver. Emerald eyes, not amethyst. Blinking to break that vainly hopeful trance, Rosa quickly lowered her face and grabbed the first piece available to her, a kiwi and tangerine tart. She might have commented that it had been a while since she had seen Cain, if not for her near blunder. “No, I don’t suppose there is.” She quickly said, “But if it’s any assurance, there doesn’t seem to be one for White Mages, either. Though, I have made contact with a man that has experience as a nurse. We may be opening a clinic in Rivelata.”
Cain: "There's always need for someone like you." Cain said without thinking, adding "someone who can heal." in a moment of panic. It wasn't like him to just let these emotions just slip out. He scolded himself mentally and took a second bite of his sweet breakfast. He wasn't that surprized that Rosa had already found a way to help people... She always strived to make other people's lives easier, that was the sort of woman she was; kind and gentle. Cain was avoiding Rosa's gaze, he knew that if he looked her in the eyes he'd be caught by them... Without his helm on Cain was a lot easier to read, the subtle expression he wore was conflicted, content in Rosa's presence and... somehow very sad at the same time.
Rosa: “If there weren’t, at least it would mean that no one was hurt.” Rosa returned modestly. There wasn’t too many other ways that she could take his compliment, without assuming too much, that was. The tart was still delicious and sweet, even though the mood was slightly more somber than she had envisioned it. Perhaps it was heavier due to the content of their discussion, their circumstances and direction while trapped in that new and unknown place. But all the same, food was more appetizing with company. “How about… a place to stay?” She eventually asked, touching on the next question she had in mind. “Did you plan to remain at the Inn? I was thinking that… I might try to stay here as long as I’m able. Settling into a more permanent location doesn’t feel… right.”
Cain: "Mmm..." Cain murmured, eyes downcast to his lap to distract himself from looking at Rosa "I'll probably do the same," he admitted "I feel that... if I feel too comfortable in this... strange place, then going back to Baron would alienate me." Even more so then nower days, ever since the ordeal with Golbeze Cain had never really felt that welcome in Baron, and he didn't blame them... All of the dreadful things he had done... He was just glad that they didn't pelt rocks at him when he walked in through the city gate. Shaking those thoughts from his head he finally added "I... know we wont be here long, it's just not where we belong."
Rosa: She nodded, glad that he understood exactly what she meant to say, but couldn’t quite bring herself to make into words. Or so she had believed given the way of her interpretation. “We should always be welcome in Baron. It’s our home,” Rosa began, “But the way things have been now, I don’t know what’s happening within the castle’s very walls.” She paused, not really sure how to explain or inform Cain of the situation that she had been left with. Would it begin to worry him, too? She really hoped that they wouldn’t be there long, in order to attend to the rising turbulence Baron had been left with. “I miss everyone.” Rosa told Cain quietly. She missed Cecil. But she didn’t have to say it directly for him to know that. He might have very well known that better than anyone else. “For whatever it’s worth, I’m glad that you’re here, too.” She told Cain. She couldn’t imagine staying alone there.
Cain: That was worth more than she probably could have ever realised... Cain worried he was in the way, that he made Rosa feel awkward, and he didn't want that. He only wanted her to be the content and beautiful woman she was. His feelings were... torn, he had known Cecil since childhood, they had been friends, rivals, and more recently... enemies. He couldn't work out whether he wanted to see him to just... talk to him about things or to never seen him again ever... If Cain had been a more selfish man he might have been tempted to make the most of the time he had alone with Rosa here to his advantage, but he couldn't, even if he wanted to... "Don't worry." he tried to sooth "We can get back, and..." a sad smile crept across his lips "everyone will welcome you with open arms, Rosa..."
Rosa: “Thank you, Cain.” Rosa said, glancing up in order to smile toward him from across the seating area. Twin tiers knit, just barely, over her brows when it seemed his expression did not match that same sentiment of a happy reunion. “You know that… we’re all there for you too, don’t you?” She couldn’t help but to say, as if she needed to tell him, lest he not actually know when he should have. “Of course, with the way things were when I left them, I don’t know if they’d welcome any of us. Especially Cecil.” She had finally spoken his name, but like she had felt before meeting with Cain, it was much easier when it was done. Now was as good a time to inform Cain of Baron’s circumstances as any. For what she felt was the first time.
“When you both went to the Village of Mist and disappeared, I was so worried. But the King wouldn’t send anyone after you two, so I went myself. I found Cecil, but just when we were going to see to the safety of the Crystal in Fabul, I ended up coming here to find you.” More urgently, she began to ask, “Do you have any idea of why the King wants the Crystals? Or who ‘Golbez’ is? He was just recently appointed by the King himself.”
Cain: She must have suffered from some sort of amnesia on coming here... But how could he tell her what had happened, she didn't even know of his betrayal, let alone the details of the crystals or the truth about the moon... What torture. "I..." he began, a lump in his throat that threatened to silence him altogether "Much... has happened, Rosa. Do you not remember?" How could she not?
Rosa: Her expression furrowed slightly, her memory having been quite clear. Or so she had thought it was. From Cain’s stance, however, she suddenly felt as if she knew, or recalled, very little at all. If anything, it was almost as if he knew the answers. And she should have, as well. “I remember…” She began, thinking very carefully. Having finished her food, she gently dusted off her hands over the carpet and sat back. “Meeting a man called Yang when passing through Mt. Hobs. Damcyan had just been attacked. We feared that Fabul was next. But, just before the last horizon… I saw Rivelata. Not Fabul.” And that was about the extent of it. “What is the last thing that… you remember?” She asked, almost afraid to.
Cain: And his reply was a handful of the most difficult words he had ever uttered to Rosa "... The last thing I recall is getting an invitation from you... Asking me to attend yours and Cecil’s wedding." he left out the fact that he hadn't attended. And with that said he finished off his breakfast and began to wonder if he should be making his leave... News like that would probably shock Rosa and him being there may not... help.
Rosa: “But that’s…” Rosa began, grasping for any amount of words to say in reply to something quite unexpected, if not downright astonishing. Cecil had been much too preoccupied. With his position in the kingdom, his own profession and state of affairs, training, existence, as a Dark Knight. She was there to support and encourage him, but something as sudden as marriage…? She wasn’t quite sure how she should feel about the news. Hearing about her own wedding. Shocked, happy, or even uncertain. In her mind, it had always lingered there, but it had hardly been the right time. She struggled to grasp for an appropriate response, or series of questions, until she finally decided to back track and linger on what had been bothering her most. At least until this sudden news took its place. There was an anomaly in time. There had to be. Cain was neither rash nor prone to strange jokes.
“Then… Baron.. the Crystals and their kingdoms… They’re safe?” She asked. “Maybe I’m not supposed to know… At least not before my time. But.. please just tell me that much.”
Cain: "Baron is... safe." this was torture for Cain and it didn't help that Rosa was the one doing the torturing... had it been anyone else he could have turned away, but he couldn't do that to her... "The Crystals were taken... There were... complications." and he was one of them. Cain just prayed that she wouldn't pry into the matter...
Rosa: She lowered her head, pale yellow strands framing the side of her face as they slipped from her right ear. It wasn’t exactly what she wanted to hear, but she had wanted to hear the truth all the same. Even if it was difficult. Still, she could not quite imagine anything like a wedding during a time that there was war or tribulations running throughout the land, obviously involving them. It had to be after. Or something might have happened to force the sudden arrangement? She didn’t want to think so negatively. It could have been the completely opposite. No matter which path, though, she felt more and more as if it were not something that she yet know or hear. Especially from Cain. “I see,” she said simply and quietly. “Thank you, Cain. I appreciate your insight. I’m sure that everything will be all right, no matter what.” They had to be. “For all of us.”
Cain: He wasn't so convinced, his life had been difficult as of late -thanks to his own actions- and it didn't feel like it was going to get easier any time soon (whether he was here or back home). "You're welcome." he said in a small voice "I was shocked to hear that you couldn't recall these things, maybe it was the shock... But... do not worry... Your friends attend your wedding, the world is at peace... All the hardships are over for you, you have... a wonderful life to return to in Baron."
Rosa: She was glad to hear it. That reassurance and safety of a secure future. In contrast to the completely uncertain one. Of course, she was still there in Rivelata, making no progress towards that path one way or another, but it was something. The world, and Cecil, would be safe. All of that was everything she could have ever hoped to hear. But the more she listened to that good fortune, the more her smile faded, watching him speak. “Cain,” she called him out the trance, no longer needing, and perhaps it would be best not hearing, things she shouldn’t have yet known. “Thank you. It’s enough. It’s not me that I was most concerned of. It’s the world. Baron, and our companions, of whom you are amongst.”
With a soft sigh, she eased herself down to kneel on the carpet with her arms folded across the table. His eyes had been downcast and avoidant for a long while now, so lowering her own stance enabled her to better catch his gaze. “Listen to me, Cain. Life is whatever we make of it. Wonderful, or even otherwise. So, here, or even back in Baron, we’ll do our best. Just don’t forget that we’re there, and here, to help one another.” It was all they really could do, no matter what the circumstances. She only hoped that she would be able to see him smile more.
Cain: That had caught him unaware, Cain hadn't expected Rosa to do something like that and it was as he had first feared... Looking into her eyes was near-fatal for the dragoon. Those soft, smiling eyes framed by such a serene and beautiful face. Rosa looked angelic, Cain had always thought so, and even now after all that had happened she was just as kind to him. "... Rosa." he murmured as his sad expression softened somewhat. Seeing her like this reminded him of why he lov--was so fond of her. "Don't worry about me, please. Whether I'm here or in Baron it... doesn't matter, I'll be fine."
Rosa: The woman nodded and let the issue rest, not feeling as if she had reached the sort of closure or certainty she was hoping for. During the course of their conversation, the focus had shifted, somewhat. But as she had said, for now, it was all that she could do. For him or anyone else. After a few brief moments, she pressed her palms against the surface of the table, pushing herself up to stand. Looked around the same room, now with more people filtering about, she was back in Rivelata. “All right, then. Let’s focus on whatever’s to come.” She began with a renewed tone. “This gala is very out of place, but I think it would be a good opportunity to perhaps catch a glimpse of the Queen or any new information.” Without, perhaps, enough discretion or consideration she asked, “Would you care to accompany me?” There was no one else she could think of as a close ally to carry out such an investigation with.
Cain: His heart skipped a beat, Cain realized that this request probably wasn't intentionally a romantic one in the slightest, but... He couldn't help but feel excited. He had only dreamed of taking Rosa to a ball, her arm linked in his, watching her smile and turn to whisper to him what she thought of the event and holding her gently in his arms as they danced together. He blinked to try and shake off the overwhelming thoughts and replied -somewhat delayed- "I would love to, Rosa..." his mind was racing ahead of itself, he began to wonder whether it was formal or not, ought he buy something for the occasion? Was she going to be in a... ball dress? "When is it?" he asked to try and distract himself from these thoughts.
Rosa: He seemed to be very slightly more cheered with the prospect of the ball itself, or so she had led herself to think. A ball might lighten anyone’s mood if they were open to the idea, and Rosa was glad that Cain had agreed. It might be fun, in the end, to have something to do even as friends. And most importantly, they might have been just a step closer to the truth. If not able to be distracted from the same situation and locations at the same time.
“I believe that it is in just a few more days,” Rosa mused, “The Queen made an announcement a little while ago, though, so it would probably be best to begin making arrangements as soon as possible. Just a few costumes should do it.” She didn't suppose that 'simple' was as easily attainable as flamboyant, but so long as they were accepted into the ball, with the required accompaniment, the plan was well underway.
"I will go to find a place with costumes, and let you know where you might be able to have one fitted." She suggested, beginning to pace the front of the hearth. "You could have a look at the building where it will take place. Châteaubriant Ballroom, I believe it was. See if, perhaps, there is a way to get into it or how much people know about it. Or if it might even be dangerous... Does that sound all right?" She didn't often plan so many things out, but all her time with Cecil, especially traveling, had her inspired to think ahead.
Cain: Cain was impressed, he always knew that Rosa was a practical and forward-thinking young woman but she was so... determined and bright, he smiled and the expression just visible under his helm. "That sounds fine, I'll go there this afternoon." with a small tinge of humour in his voice Cain added "Heh, you can look for a costume you think will suit me while I'm there, perhaps?"
Rosa: He had replaced the mask which obscured his features, but at least she could still see his smile. It reassured her far more than his words and what he had informed her of, no matter how apparently optimistic. "I can," Rosa replied quickly, clasping her hands behind her with a reaffirmed nod of her head. "So long as you trust my tastes in clothing, at least. I promise I won't choose anything you would outright refuse to wear. But, I'm afraid whatever I choose won't have you wear that helm," she warned him with a small giggle.
Cain: "Haha!" he laughed! It had been such a long time since Cain had really felt comfortable enough in anyone's presence to laugh... Rosa could do that to him though, she just had one of those charming personalities that melted away his coldness. "Oh, I see!" he said good-naturedly "Well, I suppose I will just have to wait and see then. I look forward to seeing what you pick though."
Rosa: Laughter was a most wonderful sort of melody, and Cain's was no exception. It certainly made the morning, and the rest of the day's outlook, appear that much more invigorating. She had her doubts before concerning the ball. Now, she might have even begun to look forward to it. If not even the selection their attire. "I'll have it delivered to your room," she told him. "I'm actually more worried on if I'll ever be able to decide on something for myself.."
Cain: "Ah, you'll look lovely I'm sure, you always do." That just... slipped out. He hadn't meant to say that out loud, only think it, and although he hadn't said anything terribly... embarrassing, it still made Cain feel self conscious to have complimented Rosa quite so openly.
Rosa: Rosa gave him a modest smile and returned the compliment. It was common enough for the vernacular, so she didn't quite understand why he would have seemed hesitant after the fact. "Why, thank you. You're the same, yourself. At least whenever I'm able to see you." Both literally, concerning his helm, and figuratively as well. "Let's try to meet more often, all right?" She suggested, having had the feeling that he had been avoiding her of late. She was guilty of the same. Now that he had told her what she needed to hear though, there was no reason to.
Cain: It painned Cain so to see Rosa, he hadn't been able to cope with meeting her face to face, and now that he was with her he remembered why. Everything about Rosa enticed him, from her gentle nature to her soft way with words. His feelings felt all the more inappropriate now that she knew about her destined marriage to Cecil. "Very well, I've been busy as of late so you must forgive my absence.." was his best excuse.
Rosa: "I see. That's all right." She told him, somewhat less convincing than his own explanation. In the back of her mind there was a constant warning that she should not have been so forward, considering their past. But she could not simply ignore him as if he never existed, leaving him alone. He was a precious friend, if nothing else, and it had been so long ago... "Well then, I'll be off. If I don't get started now I may very well not be finished before nightfall."
Cain: "Alright, I trust your tastes then, Rosa." he stood up as she announced her departure. "Take care, I look forward to seeing you again soon." He wasn't sure how to bid her farewell, once upon a time they would've held each other tenderly in their goodbyes, nowadays it was... a different story altogether.
Rosa: Rosa nodded as he stood to face her, not allowing the time to stretch on and be filled with nothing but a sort of immobile standstill. Where they were both frozen in place, expecting something to happen. "I'll be off then. We'll dine together by tomorrow morning. I'll try to find something that's not so much like a dessert." And, turning to go with a small wave, she was careful not to look back.