|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 Posted: Mon Apr 11, 2011 12:23 am
It had been a while (a week, give or take) since they returned to school, and the nightmares had... More or less subsided. While she had been busy with catching up with everyone and making sure that they're alright, when things finally slowed down and went back to normal, she distinctively remembered one thing - Riley had asked to talk to her when she pulled the Mindflayer into a group hug... Now would be a good time, right?
She pulled out her phone and started on a text, asking if she was free to meet up, before realizing that she did not have Riley's number. A frown, shower and change of clothes later, she made her way up the stairs to the floor above hers. She had gone to Riley's room once, but that day was filled with memories of the smell of burnt sugar, sugar covered grass, Christof scaling the walls of the dorm, Christof falling apart, Calder and her searching for Christof parts and Malodore putting Christof back together. Oh, and the fact that Barth's room was surprisingly neat for a Sloth demon's lair.
Arriving at Riley's room, she felt nervous all of a sudden; while they did go through the island together, they were by no means close. Or friends, really. Hesitating for a moment, she quickly rapped at the door before taking a step back, and waited.
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Apr 11, 2011 12:58 am
When Lizzy knocked on the door, it slowly creaked open a crack. The room inside was in complete darkness, with not a window or candle letting even the smallest bit of light lead the way. The room was quiet, save for the distinct sound of bubbles floating up to the surface of some kind of container of water, like an aquarium.
It was altogether eerie.
Riley was sitting on her couch, in the pitch black living room, reading a book. Her bright eyes turned towards the door, a shocking break in the darkness.
Lizzy? Her voice called out from the dark, as she put away her book and stood to head to the door. The closer she got to it, the more of her the hallway light revealed.
I'm sorry, give me a moment. She disappeared, and the room itself slowly lightened as she lit several candleabras. Bookshelves lined the walls, but otherwise the couch and a few small tables were the only visible furniture.Please, come in.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Apr 11, 2011 1:55 am
She pushed the door open a little, frowning as she peered in; before her eyes could get adjusted to the darkness, however, she spotted Riley (or rather, Riley's eyes)... Which was rather creepy, a compliment given where they were. She responded with a nod as greeting and a sheepish smile, "I hope I'm not disturbing you? Would have called before I came but I didn't have your number..."
Dipping her head briefly when invited in, she closed the door behind her before looking around the room. While it wasn't the first time she had been there, it was the first time she had been inside the room rather than standing at the doorway. The room was surprisingly... Riley. Not exactly warm and inviting but at least she didn't feel uneasy about being there despite the lack of windows.
"You must be able to see pretty well in the dark," She commented, her gaze shifting from the decor to the purple Demoness.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Tue Apr 12, 2011 12:15 am
The room had been originally designed to turn people off - Riley had recently considered doing a little bit of redecorating, since she'd recently come to terms with the amount of visitors she usually had.
Riley finished lighting the last candelabra, using the light simply to reach out her hand for Lizzy to take. She intended to lead Lizzy into the well lit study - the living room was now candlelit, but that was rarely a comfortable solution for a visit. Then again, it all depended on the visitor.
I can see equally in the dark as I can in light, actually. She amended. It's lovely to see you again, Lizzy. Shall we adjourn to the study? It is well lit, I assure you. I am intrigued by your unannounced visit.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Tue Apr 12, 2011 2:06 am
"Really? That must come in handy," She was surprised at this new piece of information; then again, she wasn't sure what abilities a mindflayer has. Realizing that Riley had extended out her hand, Lizzy took it gratefully and with a smile; if anything, Riley was the only ghoul she had spoken to so far whom she didn't feel compelled to... Fawn over and hug constantly. Was that the right word?
"Its nice to see you again too, and I'm glad that its... Under better circumstances compared to the last time," Then again, anything was better than wandering around on a fog-covered island while risking their lives to get back home, only to be killed by traps one after the other. The fact that Riley tried to kill them all in an attempt to 'save' them while in the fog was still fresh on her mind as well, although it hadn't been appearing in any of her nightmares... Which was a fairly good sign.
"Oh, I remembered you saying something about having a chat when we first crossed the portal back to school, so I thought now would be a good time for it!" She nodded; while left unsaid, she also remembered saying 'yes' and she didn't like breaking her promises.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sun Apr 17, 2011 11:28 pm
Riley took Lizzy's hand and led her through the living room carefully, until they reached a cloth covered doorway. She pushed the covering out of the way, and they were bathed in light.
The study was far brighter and more welcoming than the living room. The sound of the large aquarium filled to the brim with little white cephalatos was a constant thrum in the air. She pulled out a chair for Lizzy to take, and then slid into her own chair behind her work desk.
I am so glad you came to see me, Lizzy. She began, pressing her hands together in front of her in a solemn manner. First, I want to take this time to commend you on what an extraordinary ally you were at that island. I have a very high opinion of you. Very high, indeed. Even though I could have lived without that experience, there were several things that I have taken away from it that can be considered positive. One of them is getting to know you better. I hope that trend continues, despite our current lack of life-endangering circumstances. Her eyes crescented softly in lieu of a smile.
That is, quite honestly, the most important thing I wanted to tell you. But there is more. Perhaps this is less important, but only just. She leaned back in her chair, and rested her head back. I have a.. hmm. Proposition, you might say? That I would like you to consider at your leisure.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Apr 18, 2011 8:44 pm
The study was considerably more welcoming than the living room, and Lizzy found herself relaxing a bit more as she took the chair with a nod. When Riley moved to sit behind her work desk, she couldn't help but be reminded of... Well, a job interview - at least, what she had seen on skelevision.
"T-thank you?" She blushed at the compliments, honestly not expecting them from Riley, especially since she didn't think she really did that much. A soft chuckle followed at her next comment, and she smiled sheepishly, "Indeed... You're different from how I, uh, imagined you to be, especially after meeting you briefly during that Truth or Dare game a while back... In a good way though!" She added the last part quickly as her blush deepened in color, her expression softening, "I think the only thing I'm thankful for where school trips are concerned, are the friends I've made. Being in life threatening situations make for rather... Good bonding time."
She paused momentarily, when the topic changed, a thoughtful look on her face before she tilted her head, "Well, I'm all ears...?"
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Tue Apr 19, 2011 11:43 pm
It was appropriate that Lizzy was reminded of a job interview - because that was pretty much the position Riley felt she was in. This would only be furthered by the 'favor' she had in mind.
Her fingers tapped against their opposites idly.
Let me preface this by saying that I am a very picky individual. I tend to classify those around me in order to ascertain which individuals would be beneficial as long term associates in the long run. Honestly, before I came to this school I did not even understand the proper definition of the word friend. Though it has not been that long since my arrival, I should think that certain, ah, experiences, have altered my understanding of things in a way you would consider positive.
Riley sat back in her chair, and rocked it gently. In other words, I've been seeing things in a new light. You, among others, are the rare kind of person who would have impressed me before doing so - and obviously still do so now. That makes you invaluable to me for several reasons. We will only get into one of them today, however, as it is the basis for my favor.
Her hand reached out and tapped against the desk. Let me try to be simpler about this. It is difficult for me, you see. My mind works at a speed a thousand times faster than a typical brain. I try not to ramble, but.. ah well. Her face tightened as she became determined to explain herself.
Lizzy, She started up again. I like you. A lot. I think you're clever, and you have all the right qualities someone might look for in a mate.
What?!
Therefore, I was wondering if you would consider dating Jericho.
Oh.
... No, wait. WHAT?!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Wed Apr 20, 2011 7:25 am
The conversation was getting formal - way too formal for her tastes. It was stressing (probably just for her) and while she was doing a very good job of hiding it, her face was starting to turn pink. In fear of saying something wrong (ugh, the pressure!), she had stayed silent as Riley started to speak again.
She wanted to say a lot of things, such as 'Friends are important, I'm glad you found that out!' or 'Thank you, but I'm not worthy of your compliments!' or 'A favor? Like you need my help, yes?' or even 'Don't worry! I ramble a lot too - not that you are rambling!' Her blushed deepened at the 'mate' comment, and she looked like she was finally going to say something when Riley finally revealed the 'proposal'. Immediately, Lizzy forgot everything that she was going to say. She opened her mouth, then closed it again, before opening and closing it again as she frowned, leaning back against the back of the chair.
So much for 'you're clever'; she was taking an awfully long time to process the question.
"WHAT?"
That single word was enough to express her feelings, really. Cue the internal flailing as she inhaled sharply, closing her eyes, trying to calm her nerves. This is weird. This is so very weird. Is this like some sort of a confession? Wait... Let's see...
I LIKE YOU -> YOU'RE CLEVER AND WOULD PROBABLY MAKE A GOOD MATE -> SO DATE MY BFF, KAY?
"I- Uh, how do I put this?" She opened her eyes, looking at Riley as she tried her best not to freak out (again), "I-I'm very honored. I mean, you make a good leader and people are willing to follow you, judging from our experiences on the island. I like you too... Its quite obvious as to why Jericho hold you in such high regard and I know he often listens to you, but-"
She paused, chewing on her lower lip before continuing, "Well, what I'm trying to say is that... Uh, shouldn't... Shouldn't we ask for his opinion?" Besides, shouldn't she be the one talking to Jericho about this, not Riley? WHY. WHY IS RILEY PLAYING MATCHMAKER? She really didn't expect this when she decided to pop by for a visit.
... At least she didn't say no?
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2011 5:36 pm
If Riley had a mouth, a slow and dangerous smile would have lifted her features. The muscles of her face reacted as such, but luckily there was no mouth to reveal the chilling expression.
Both of her hands clasped in front of her, with tightly wound claws clenched together. What an excellent question. The answer, of course, is no. Riley chuckled quietly. And your next question should be why - so let me get straight to the point.
Riley stood up, walked around the desk, and sat on it, in front of Lizzy. Her legs crossed slowly in front of the demoness, and Riley leaned down to face her.
Let's be honest with each other, now. We are a different breed of demon. This much is obvious. But I do like you, very much, Lizzy. In fact, if I wasn't already in love, Jericho may not even be a factor in this equation. However, I am quite surprisingly otherwise engaged, and I therefore want to do what I can to make sure my best friend, as well as you, seek optimal possibilities. I have no qualms about saying that this may not work. What I do know, however, is that I tend to be right a lot. When I am proven wrong, it is a learning experience. Let us find out if this shall be just another point of proof to the former, or perhaps the exception that gives rise to the latter.
Remember that part about getting straight to the point? Who really believed Riley could manage to do that?
The reason we don't require Jericho's opinion in the matter is because I wish to see how this plays out without him knowing what we have planned. Call it an experiment, call it matchmaking, call it what you will. I, however, will call it subtlety. For him, at least - for you, there will be nothing but honest truth. After all, us ghouls have to stick together. She tried to keep the humor out of her voice.
She straightened up, and rested the palms of her hands against the desk behind her. So. Right now, I have one question, before we begin. That question is - how do you feel about Jericho? If you are unattracted, this experiment is futile and there is no point, now is there? I would be rather surprised if this were the case, however - he is a fine example of male anatomy. Quite passionate. And loyal. Excellent traits for a mate.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Thu Apr 28, 2011 8:11 am
Lizzy didn't really process much of what Riley said, although it wasn't because she wasn't paying attention; it was because she was still pretty shocked. She really only started to listen as Riley went on to the reason behind why Jericho shouldn't be told, and she found herself... Agreeing?
She paused, frowning slightly; she had already decided to confess to Jericho - of course, she had planned to do it after the pizza party since she was sure it would quickly get... Awkward between them if his answer ends up as a 'no'. Meeting him at a party under those circumstances would be terrible, even more so since the party would be planned by herself. Riley stepping in would just mean that it was going to get more complicated since there would be a third person involved. Then again, its not as if she was going to do anything to "help" her, so it should be fine to resume her original plan, right?
"Hm...?" The question caught her off guard, and she spent a few seconds just staring blankly at Riley before she started to blush, looking away for a bit before shifting her attention back to the demoness, "Ah... Well, uh... I have to agree that he's passionate and loyal." He had proven that on the field trip to the island, after all; she agreed with everything else said by Riley, but agreeing that Jericho is 'a fine example of male anatomy' would be too much for her. Way too much.
"I've been watching him since after Scarentine," Wait, did that make her sound creepy? Her blush deepened in color and she looked a little worried as she continued, "He could be a little hot headed and impulsive at times, but... He's cute that way..." She hadn't forgotten his outburst at Astra, although that was all Astra's fault for trying to be sneaky in a dragon's den!
Oh right. His true form is amazing and adorable, but that's like admitting to the 'a fine example of male anatomy' comment - she hadn't been staring, honest!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Fri Apr 29, 2011 2:07 am
Riley took note of the blush, and her comments, and looked pleased. Oh, that is wonderful to hear. I'm glad you appreciate him. It makes me happy. He is my best friend, after all.. so I may be a little biased, but I would consider him a fine choice. She reached up and tapped her fingers against her chin. So, now that we are in agreement, the only question is, how can I help you? Do you have any plans, as of yet? Perhaps you should tell me, so I do not conflict with anything.
Riley flipped her phone out, prodding it a bit before pulling her calendar up. She had already memorized his schedule, among others, but sitting in front of Lizzy and searching her mental database while she spoke would be rather rude. Flipping through dates on her phone, however, was not.
That's perfect logic, right?
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Fri Apr 29, 2011 11:15 pm
"P-plans? Uh, well..." She paused momentarily, shifting in her seat as she hesitated; wow, did she just confess to Riley? Since she had already done that, might as well go all the way, right? When Riley took out her phone, Lizzy did too as she got up from her seat, approaching her before holding it out with a small smile; she wasn't sure why the demoness took out her phone, but it reminded her that she still needed her number.
"Well, first things first, why don't we exchange numbers? I'll give you a miss call after so you can save mine," She nodded, "And... I really don't have any plans. I was hoping to talk to Jericho after this party I'm currently planning, but that's all... I don't believe that anyone can help someone else fall for an individual, actually... I'll update you if there's anything to update, but I hope you understand what I'm trying to say."
She bit on her lower lip; having a third person makes it complicated. Even more so since its Riley...
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sat Apr 30, 2011 4:29 am
Riley tried not to show the amusement when Lizzy mentioned that someone couldn't help in this situation. She remained as stoic as ever, and opened up her phone's information to hold out to her. Well, you don't really have to update me on your progress. But that's kind of sweet to offer. The help I'd prefer to give you is advice, rather than anything intrusive. Perhaps help you cheat a little bit. She winked.
Once Lizzy had gotten her number, she returned the phone to her own eyes, and flipped the calender back on. For example. What clubs are you a member of?
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sat Apr 30, 2011 5:08 am
"What sort of advice...?" She tilted her head; there was a hint of curiosity in her voice, and she raised an eyebrow at the comment on cheating. Taking her phone back with a muttered 'thank you', she gave Riley's phone a call, ending it when she saw that the call had gone through. Once that was done, she pocketed her phone, her gaze shifting back to Riley once again.
"Uh, only the Frighteningly Fashionable Freaks right now. Unfortunately, its not an active club," She wished it was though; perhaps she should join another club to help occupy her time...
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Reply
