[It's not Hiyori who should change to suit the environment, it's the environment that should change to suit Hiyori! Also, a smack on the ass would just make him complain more, so Leona might want to rethink that one.
But now it's Hiyori's turn to interrupt his suitemate's attempt to enjoy the breakfast buffet. A certain ominous statement has him arching his brows, a shiver coursing down his spine.]
"Make you?"
[He echoes the words, unsure he wants to know what that entails. But he needs to know, because it helps to understand what he's up against. ]
You mean they've been threatening you all? "Do as I say, or I'll destroy your kingdom and massacre your family?"
[Does someone have an overactive imagination? Perhaps, but that's not why his mind jumped there. It's more that his canon is insane. The other idols have endured similar threats throughout the qualifiers, adding to his impression that the whole resort has "ES" stamped all over it!]
[ not sorry for his language. if it means adding further emphasis to the level of danger they're all facing, leona finally shows off his collarbone. he probably had ample time to point it out especially how it's not as prominent at this time, but the diamond shaped mark which is adorned with a crown does seem oddly... bright, against his darker complexion. ]
Ya see this? This tattoo or somethin' makes ya compliant. And I mean that. Mine me feel like I was pent up for months. Couldn't think straight at all.
[ no, he's not some crazy alkaloid fan. stan ra*bits ]
You're safe for now, but I can't say you will be forever. Doesn't matter who ya think ya are or where you're from. An' that's why I'm playin'. 'cause whatever choice I got, I'm gonna make the moves myself.
[ and that's why leona's smart. play by the rule set you're given. then when you know enough, you can push those boundaries. it's a slow play but a deliberate one. also speedrunning seems terribly inefficient. ]
[He cranes his neck forward, taking a good look at the mark. And here he thought it was just a fashion choice (albeit a somewhat questionable one). However, as it turns out, the tattoo is something that makes the wearer feel... er... "pent up," apparently? He's not sure why those two things would be correlated.
But it does raise an alarming question.]
... did they lug you into a tattoo parlor and hold you down in the chair? Or did you simply wake up like that?
[A white-gloved hand drifts towards his own throat, resting on the knot of his jabot. He woke up wearing an outfit he hated, which only fueled his earlier tantrum: a white suit with gold trim and a powder blue suit vest underneath, plus gloves and a wedding veil (the latter of which got tossed away and landed somewhere on the floor). They're not an exact match—there are minor details that were changed, and the quality of the fabric is much higher—but it's still all too eerily reminiscent of something else he wore.
His focus now, however, isn't on the clothes—it's on what might be hidden underneath them, etched into his skin somewhere.]
Woke up like that. But the mark didn't show up until later. Must be some kind of fancy... somethin' that makes it work like that.
[ there are more unsettling and sinister things at work, truth be told. and he really doesn't know how much more hiyori would want to hear about, especially with that kind of... growing curiosity? at least it's less of a snippy and downright annoying attitude and something that is closer to acceptance.
and while leona's not a mind reader, it really doesn't take that much effort to make a few good assumptions--- as high quality as the suit that his 'spouse' is wearing. ]
If you're curious, ya can find out for yourself. An' I can look at the places you can't easily see. Not fair that I haven't seen the rest of my husband while he's seen a lot of me.
[Yes, there are more unsettling things going on. All too many of them, really! But to someone like him, this "involuntary tattoo" business is plenty disturbing on its own. Even putting aside the alleged side effects, he's an idol. What's he supposed to do, cover it with make-up every time he wears a costume that bares his collarbone? Pay to have the thing removed?? He'd rather not spend any time in a tattoo parlor, frankly! And how dare someone leave a blemish on his beautiful, flawless skin?
He jumps up from his seat.]
No thanks! You'll just have to imagine how lovely I look. Or wait for me to visit in your dreams, since there's no way anything else would ever happen between us! ♪
[He speaks with an odd, spiteful sort of cheer, brushing past Leona to stride across the room. There's no entertaining that offer; for all he knows, the lion man still wants to eat him! But whether he wants to eat him or "eat him," Hiyori will pass either way!
So, it's off to the bathroom he goes. ... or, er, one of the bathrooms? It seems there's more than one, surprisingly. Honestly, this suite is just unreasonably huge! And he hasn't even explored what's up those golden staircases yet. But anyway, he's found a bathroom, which means it's time to slam the door shut, flip on the lights, and face the mirror.
Admiring his reflection is normally one of his favorite pastimes, but he is sorry to say there is nothing admirable about the sight of him with a frazzled face and a bedhead, dressed in that horrible outfit. With a surge of anger, he pulls off the lace-trimmed gloves and tosses them aside (one lands in the shower, the other on the floor) before examining the front and back of his hands. Nope, nothing there, though that's no great shock since it sounds like the neck is a more probable target. He tugs the jabot loose next, flinging that somewhere too, and pops open some buttons on the collar before leaning forward to get a good look at himself.
Nope. No crown, no diamond, nothing!
It comes as a relief, though only a slight one. First, there are other places to check. And second, well... didn't the lion man say something about the mark "not showing up until later"?
[It's at least another ten minutes before he emerges from the bath. The door bursts open abruptly and he walks out, still wearing the same outfit, but with the collar loose and several pieces missing. He flops down on the same chair, assuming a lofty tone of voice.]
Looks like I've escaped your fate. This calls for a celebration...♪
[He'll be grabbing a pastry now. Specifically one of the little lattice pastries with berry filling.]
[ unfortunately leona doesn't know how to remove tattoos and any attempt of using his magic ended up fizzling out even before he could get the spell out. otherwise he would've offered if only someone played a little more nice? a little less feisty and rude and sort of combative? except it's not the blatant kind--- to him, it's the kind that comes with believing that this person can get out of anything. or that they feel they have a real grip on the situation.
and that is, well. very funny to him.
he has no response for hiyori as he leaves for the bathroom, simply choosing to stare at all the various breakfast foods. none of them are appealing. he wishes there was at least SOMETHING with more... heft? something substantial that would sit in his stomach. a pastry won't do that. maybe five or six would. that salmon quiche though? it's looking a lot better than it did when hiyori tried to get him to eat it. so.
maybe.
when that green haired brat finally exits to no fanfare whatsoever, leona's already chewing on a piece of said egg and fish tart. that he has to turn to look the other direction, swallow as quickly as possible, and then turn back with a lopsided frown on his face. ]
For now. Guess ya can do whatever ya want until then.
[ back on the bed he goes, watching hiyori with genuine interest now. the fact that he doesn't know about the food and its potential surprises is... well. it could knock him down a peg. and if not now, it will later. that's something leona can be sure of. ]
[Hmmph, so he's willing to eat the quiche now, but wouldn't test it for poison earlier?
Well, whatever. He's given up! He can't starve! Plus, if his suspicions are correct, then the person slash entity behind all this isn't out to kill him.
That person would rather "kill" idols in other ways. Isn't that right?]
Back to bed already?
[He looks back at Leona with a frown (and some flecks of sugar on his lips).]
I know you're eager to dream of me, but I can't have you falling asleep just yet. First, tell me all the attempts to escape you've made. Obviously none of them worked, but I want to know what's already been tried so I don't waste my time trying it too!
[ what, did hiyori think he'd climb into his lap or sit in a chair adjacent or something like that? leona needs his space and comfort and if the overly curious idol isn't going to provide that, he'll make his own as usual. ]
Well, tryin' to get anythin' out of the employees 'round here just has 'em sayin' the same thing. To enjoy ourselves. They don't get aggressive 'bout it but they're pretty convinced the best thing we can do is be here.
[ and use what they have to offer. the luxuries of the resort are hard to ignore, even though leona would enjoy better amenities. ]
Magic doesn't work. 'm not exactly good with that in the first place, and I'm not gonna start blowin' things up. Apparently they got a place to put unruly people and it's even less comfortable than what I'm used to, so.
[ he clicks his tongue. the taste of quiche oddly makes him want more, but he'll ignore that for now. ]
So unless you got somethin' that I don't, I think you're stuck.
[No, no, he doesn't want a two-ton lion in his lap!
He listen while chewing his pastry, fighting the urge to interject. "The best thing we can do is be here?" Perhaps that's true of someone with nothing important going on, but he's got a family and a career to get back to (not to mention his adoring fans). That's adulthood, that's responsibility! He does love to relax and enjoy the finer things, but only on days off! And if those days off have been few and far between lately, he still can't complain, since that's what he signed up for when he chose this life.
There must be a way out. Where there's a way in, there's a way out! And there must be a way in, since they're inside the place right now. It's not as though they teleported here by magic, after al—
... er
Wait.]
......
[Hiyori blinks his eyes, looking perplexed. "Magic doesn't work"? "Not good at that in the first place?" What does he mean, exactly? The next thing Leona says sounds pretty discouraging (whoever heard of a resort with a jail?), but he's still hung up on that part.
He finishes the pastry. Leona finishes talking. That was all a lot to take in. But, as usual, the ever-talkative Hiyori Tomoe manages to come out with something.]
So basically, the gist is... you didn't try to get out? Because of that punishment you mentioned?
[ he's not THAT heavy... geez..... or maybe hiyori can come sit on leona's lap instead. c:
leona's not sure what got hiyori's train of thought to finally stop at a relevant station, but it sure is funny to watch! does he have to prove that he's not bullshitting right now? it's not difficult and even without his pen on him, there are some things he's willing to do as long as it doesn't cause any significant amount of blot. and around here, leona's positive that a little stress relief will keep it at bay. keep him from doing something cataclysmic, that he would have to be... stopped. ]
Ya might think it's selfish wantin' to survive, but I'm not gonna risk my hide on a 'maybe'. If our mysterious benefactor was able to make all of this happen, they got a lot of resources and power.
[ one leg is crossed over the other. he leans back, hands against the mattress, and he raises his head so that he can stare at hiyori using his peripheral. practically looking down with a lopsided frown, one that isn't meant for him but for the present situation. ]
Don't be a coward. And again, ya don't really have a choice. Either play fast and finish the game, or don't. It's not like reputation matters or anythin'. 'm sure no one will knows who ya are 'cause I sure don't.
[The lion man looks plenty heavy to him! There's a reason his motto is "I refuse to carry anything heavier than a chopstick."
His lips purse into another frown as Leona continues. Being told "you don't have a choice" does not sit well with him, nor does he think it's accurate. Their captor's resources and power are plain to see, certainly. But he and Nagisa were already up against an enemy with "resources and power" beyond most people's comprehension, and that wasn't enough to stop them.
And he's not convinced this is a different enemy. That's the sticking point.]
Don't call me a coward.
[His tone isn't angry. More bored, really. Perhaps it would've gotten him heated under other circumstances, or if it had come from a different person. But he refuses to sit here and be criticized by someone who couldn't even bother putting up any resistance. He'll just turn back to the table and start another on pastry instead!
Then it's back to running his mouth.]
Caving into their demands without even trying to look for an alternative doesn't suit me at all. Anyone who'd do that isn't fit for my role. That sort of weak-willed person isn't the ones my fans devoted themselves to, trusting with all their heart and soul.
[He says, like there isn't a time when things could've gone differently. If they'd caught him when he was still lonely, perhaps he would've gone along after the initial tantrum. Lonely and bored and all too willing to go along with whoever's wants in order to kill time—that's pretty much how he used to be. But he's been there, done that, and doesn't have a taste for it nowadays, not now that he knows what it feels like to really be loved.]
You can do whatever you want. Be careful, don't be careful, create an illegitimate heir or two—whatever, not my problem! But I'll be doing things my own way. Anything else would simply be a betrayal. And since I'm generous and kind, I might even show you the way out once I do find it. So I'd stop insulting me and try to get on my good side, if I were you. You've left a bad impression, but there's still time to right past wrongs ♪
[ there's only so much leona can say before he has to do, and he's not going to lift a finger for this guy. as far as he knows, hiyori's been talking a lot of trash--- in subtle and not-so-subtle ways. it's ignorance. arrogance. and if anything, it sounds like he would rather have others do the heavy lifting for him so that he could keep his nails clean. perhaps he think he's being charitable? a good-intentioned benefactor that would certainly not use knowledge against others. right, right.
he might run into a real buzzsaw of another dorm leader if he keeps up that kind of attitude. one who can really spin words and deals into something dangerous, especially if they're not well equipped to handle that kind of magic... or any magic at all. ]
You sound pretty damn confident. It's gonna be funny when ya get knocked down a few pegs.
[ and leona will make sure he's there to see it. nothing irritates him more than stupid people. stupid in the sense of lacking all kinds of common sense. he doesn't doubt that hiyori doesn't have something that makes him special--- even if it's some kind of incredible delusion manifested into something that is real to him. having 'fans' means nothing to him, the one who has followers of his own.
his cup is sitting on the table next to the pot and there's no way he's going to get up to pour himself a new one. not when he wants to keep his distance from this... misguided individual. the idol can enjoy his pastry. all it takes leona is a flick of the wrist, a finger pointed towards the fancy silver teakettle and gesturing upwards. the pot lifts itself, tilts, and empties its contents into the cup. then with another movement, the cup floats right on over to leona's awaiting hand.
it's not a flex. he's not trying to impress. he's just thirsty. ]
[No, if someone would actually listen, they'd realize he's saying the opposite. He'll do all the heavy lifting! (... metaphorical heavy lifting, that is. Definitely not literal.) He'll find a way out, unravel the whole plot, and topple Gatekeeper's scheme. (Or whoever's scheme this is, if it isn't Gatekeeper's—Nagisa did imply there were other forces involved.) He'll do all that himself, with no help from Mr. Lion Prince, who's free to keep lounging in bed and shaking his hips with strangers, all because some wristwatch told him to.
And once Hiyori is done—once he's cut to the heart of this nefarious scheme, and gotten in contact with the outside world—he'll help the lazy lion man escape. All without charging money or asking for anything in return, except for a little respect (and possibly also for him to put a shirt back on). If that's not generosity, what is?
Why, he ought to demand a statue of himself be built in the kingdom of Savanna-whatever. Instead, he's offering to help solely out of the goodness of his heart. How wonderful, how noble! That's how anyone with any sense should react.
Instead, all he receives is another rude comment in response to his offer. Fine, whatever! Once he finishes his tea and pastry it'll be time to peace out, anyway. But just when he's about to pour himself some more tea, a very odd thing happens.]
............ eh?
[The silver teapot rises, hovering in midair somewhere around his elbow. As it tips itself over the empty cup, Hiyori's brows creep upward, like he can't believe what he's seeing. Is this an illusion? A hallucination? Unless it's just some new-fangled technology. Perhaps there was a self-pour feature all along and he simply didn't notice. But that idea goes whooshing out the window when the teacup whooshes across the room, landing right in the smug lion's grasp.
His shock is plainly visible on his face and probably quite satisfying.]
Huh? You did that? But you said magic doesn't work!
[ to be honest, what he hears isn't what he's willing to listen to. maybe if hiyori apologizes after all of that extraneous and pompous babble he subjected leona to, he'd be willing to be just as helpful and kind as the other guy tried to portray himself as. perhaps not as noble, because he'd totally hold it over him as long as they both live in the same space, but...
unless that statue serves a real purpose, there's no way it would ever get built. there's far too many things that need repairing. improving. modernizing. so maybe it could help with the watering efforts? gather sunlight to allow other things around it to be powered? cover the damn thing with outlets so people can charge their equipment. that would be useful. definitely more than what he believes hiyori can be. ]
To escape. Can't use it to escape.
[ ah. now that's the palpable look he's been waiting for. casually sips his tea with his pinky slightly extended as he does so. ]
Like I said. Not gonna try to kill myself over tryin' to get out if I can't get out with what I got. But if there's someone else who can that will appreciate what I have to offer, then that's what I'll use.
[ you know, the kind that can look at leona's toned body and swipe right. ]
Want some?
[ tea, he means. not himself. but he'd serve if that's what hiyori ended up wanting at some point. ]
[Somewhere in the back of his mind, he can appreciate Leona's tea-drinking etiquette. But obviously the whole "magic" thing takes priority. Is this a parlor trick meant to deceive him? No, but it sure looks real...
He's still pretty stupefied, but he doesn't have time for a "magic is real?!" crisis. How did Leona do the thing he just did? Don't know, who cares! But seeing clear evidence of his capabilities is causing the gears in Hiyori's head to turn, after the shock had ground them to a halt. A long moment of staring, then he shakes his head.]
No, I'm fine, thank you...
[He passes on the tea, too busy thinking. And he'd pass on the other offer too, of course. First of all, Leona's too muscle-y for his tastes! Second, those funny ears are a waste on him and they should've gone to someone cuter! Third, Hiyori doesn't like his attitude. And fourth, well...
How would that even work? One of them would have to do something besides just lie there, and it's sure not going to be him!
No, the question that next comes out of his mouth isn't "Want to roll around on the bed for a while?" His next question is simply this:]
Why can't you use it to escape?
[Yep. He's persisting down that train of thought, leveling Leona with a slightly suspicious stare. It's not that he assumes the lion man could just use magic to tear the whole resort down—that seems a fair bit more advanced than tea-pouring, and could very well be beyond his capabilities. It's more like, has he even tried to use magic to get out? Or would he rather just lounge around all day?]
Pouring scalding hot tea on their head or chucking some china at them could deal with a few security guards, anyway. And you must have some spells up your sleeve other than just that, right?
anyway. the kettle is safely lowered down, not a drop falling out and making even the tiniest little mess for someone to clean later. as he slowly lowers his cup, leona thinks about what he's already said and how this herbivore can possibly be this hard of hearing? how's he going to hear the nearly silent footsteps of a predator ready to pounce, leap onto his back, and tear into him with a viciousness reserved for those who truly deserve a maiming...
also his ears aren't funny. they're handsome as hell. be jealous. though, the best jun card does have pretty cute ears. ]
So I'll ya again. 'm no expert at teleportin' people around. Not really my expertise, if ya care to know.
[ the tea is actually pretty decent. shame that the taste of it has been slightly ruined by his company, but that's no big deal. having to work alongside other thick headed and easily irritating personalities has become a part of his life that he acknowledges will never become a memory. ]
And here's the other thing. 've been strollin' around, 'cause there's really nothin' else better to do. There ain't any actual ways outta the resort proper. The huge garage has no exits even though there are a lot of rich ass lookin' cars.
[ did you know leona can drive? ]
So I dunno if you know what impossible means, but it's almost that. Sorry to say.
[He wasn't asking about teleportation, he was asking about violence.
But alright: contrary to what some people might think, he can read between the lines. To wit:]
So the exit is well-hidden, and you don't think we can brute-force our way out.
[Notice that he said "well-hidden" and not "non-existent," though. Because as he points out next,]
But there must be some way out. Otherwise, their promise to send us home once we finish debasing ourselves really would be a baldfaced lie. And you seem to believe that's serious.
[Despite his own lingering skepticism on that front. The lion prince truly seems to believe that if he does what he's told like a good boy, his captors will keep his word and he'll be rewarded. Perhaps that's what he needs to tell himself in order to sleep at night. "It was for good reason, so I had to do it.""Now that I've already started, I might as well keep going." Hiyori knows, or at least he thinks he knows. After all, those were the justifications he used the last time he wore white gloves and a white suit.
But if they expect him to act the part just because he looks the part, they've got another thing coming.
He turns back to the table, reaching for a napkin to wipe the sugar off his fingers.]
In that case, it's settled. I'll just have to play along.
[Though not with that "game." He's just saying he'll make them think he's compliant, rather than launch an all-out rebellion. And, being quite familiar with noble society, he shouldn't have any problem playing the role at all, should he?]
[ the napkin rises before hiyori can take it for himself, leona's finger doing all the heavy lifting. it's not like the beastman has considered that they could all be playing the part of rubes, of sheep that follow the shepherd's crook which will also end up being led off a cliff. but the longer they play, the more information they gather, and then whatever horrible surprise that could await them might be mitigated through whatever combined efforts are around.
of course, leona also sees another side: that some could be here to avoid their homes. that's always a possibility. would there be potential factions working against each other? maybe. maybe not. the most entertaining games are the ones where there's a definitive opposing side, so... ]
Either way, playin' along is the best way to do things for now. Even if ya hate it. Doesn't mean you can't pivot, ya know.
[ floating along until it reaches its destination, the cup places itself back by the pot. ]
Ya think ya got somethin' to bring to the table... ideas or anythin' like that, then try it.
[ he's not going to break a sweat doing something that'll just make him have to shower again. too much hot water is bad for the skin, isn't it? ]
[Alright, well, that's unexpected. He jerks in his seat, hard enough that his chair threatens to tip over backwards, whirling around to send Leona an irritable look.]
Playing along and playing that "game" are two different things, you know. But as for ideas, well, I know exactly who sent me here. So that's one player in the conspiracy, anyway. And I know what sort of tricks he might try and pull in the future, if he does have a hand in running this place.
[Though not as well as Nagisa and Ibara would. For all his talk, Hiyori really doesn't know much of anything about the mysterious figure called "Gatekeeper," or about those other forces Nagisa has alluded to. He didn't care to know, and those two in Adam haven't shared much of anything with him. But now that lack of knowledge is really coming back to bite him...
He watches that teacup sail through the air again, all without the lion man having to lift a finger. A noble and royal, a prince and an idol. No doubt they've both had an easy lot in life, the current predicament aside. But there's never any shortage of commoners who hunger to see the rich and powerful brought to their knees, is there?]
You must have your share of enemies. Any idea who'd want to see you bark like a dog?
[ interesting. that's the only thing so far that hiyori's contributed that has made leona pause. he rolls it around in his mind for a moment or two--- an enemy of the royal family? one that would love to see him suffer? sure, there are always going to be people upset with the decisions that are made to ensure their kingdom prospers, but as far as he knows... ]
Psh, nah. Ya think I'd have any enemies?
[ if anything, he'd be the one who would send someone to suck-and-fuck resort but that's... not really his way of going about things either. no, he'd rather just pound someone into submission and have them grovel on their knees. beg for forgiveness. forget their insolence. ]
Even on campus, everyone knows who not to mess with. And thanks to my brother, the king... our people love us. That's the only good thing he really does nowadays.
[ and while leona may dislike certain mages, it doesn't mean it's reciprocated in kind. ]
So maybe ya know who made ya take this vacation, but that doesn't mean it's the same for me.
[Hiyori wouldn't even send his worst enemy to the fuck-and-suck resort. A, his worst enemies wouldn't deserve the "luxury resort" part! And B, if it's someone like Eichi-kun, he'd find it much more satisfying to win against him onstage than to decimate his career with a sex scandal. Part of being noble-born means taking the high road.
And if the enemy is Gatekeeper, well, apparently his dick doesn't work, so jot that down...
Leona's claim that he has no enemies doesn't earn much of a reaction. Hiyori doesn't know him or his kingdom; that might be true, or it might not be true! Still, he's surprised that a prince, of all people (even one who seems a bit too lazy to help govern or pass legislation), wouldn't have acquired some enemies...
Until he catches that one part. "My brother, the king."
Immediate recognition dawns on Hiyori's face. If Leona mentioned that part earlier, he missed it (possibly because he was still stressed over the kidnapping, or possibly because he was distracted by Leona's funny ears!). But now that he's caught it, that explains a lot in his view: not about their abduction, but about Leona.]
So that's how it is.
[He nods like he understands.]
Yep, you do make fewer enemies when you're not involved at all in your family's affairs. You get to lounge around all day thinking, "he's the heir, so that stuff has nothing to do with me." But you might still be valuable for one thing, anyway.
[ eichi-kun is very fortunate that he's not here. his pale ass would probably show more bruises than he'd like. glass bones and paper skin, you know?
also sucks to be so unlucky, mr. gatekeeper.
anyway. he doesn't like how hiyori suddenly feels enlightened and privileged to leona's life, as if he actually knows what it's like to be someone who could never be in the position that he worked so hard for up until the point where the rug was pulled out from under him. leona frowns, his next huff escaping through flared nostrils. the last thing he wants is to be frustrated by a set of circumstances he can't do anything about while he's here.
the point of escaping is so that he can... go back...
... sniff. ]
'm still very involved. Got a bunch of plans regarding the city to make sure our next hot season doesn't wipe out the fields. Irrigation's a big deal and not just to me, but to everyone who depends on a solid infrastructure.
[ those games of chess he played, the time spent in tutoring... ]
But that's got nothin' to do with ya. And if this ends up bein' some sick joke, I'll make sure whoever did it will suffer. You won't find a trace of 'em left.
[ he's serious. as serious as turning someone into sand and making sure they feel every particle of their being dissolve into something that'd be fitting for a nice hourglass. ]
[Thank goodness Hiyori can't read metatext. That way he doesn't have to picture Gatekeeper's non-functional penis or Eichi-kun's bruised butt.
He can hear spoken dialogue, though, and Leona's words do grab his attention. They get him to drop the unserious attitude, gaze turning thoughtful. Apparently he underestimated the lion prince—or overestimated his laziness. Leona is involved in running his kingdom, far more than Hiyori is involved in running the Tomoe Foundation, and that merits some respect.
As do his words at the end, which earn an approving smile.]
Now that sounds promising.
[What was that he said earlier? Something about preferring not to see carnage?
But he's not naive. Crimes shouldn't go unpunished (especially not crimes against him), and dirty deeds need to get done sometimes. That's just how the world works, as he goes on to explain.]
It'd be wonderful if I could sing a song that would purify this place. All the nastiness and filth would be purged, and then we could relax and enjoy our quiches without worrying the eggs were poisoned. But that sort of outcome doesn't seem possible, so I'll just have to rely on people like you ♪
[He reaches for the teapot, deciding he does want some more tea, after all. Right now he'll "rely on" Leona not to interfere. But if he does interfere, oh well.]
I'll stay out of the underworld and do the above-ground work. That's what suits someone like me. And once the whole plot's been unraveled, you can sink your teeth into whoever's responsible. That sounds like a good use of both our strengths.
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[It's not Hiyori who should change to suit the environment, it's the environment that should change to suit Hiyori! Also, a smack on the ass would just make him complain more, so Leona might want to rethink that one.
But now it's Hiyori's turn to interrupt his suitemate's attempt to enjoy the breakfast buffet. A certain ominous statement has him arching his brows, a shiver coursing down his spine.]
"Make you?"
[He echoes the words, unsure he wants to know what that entails. But he needs to know, because it helps to understand what he's up against. ]
You mean they've been threatening you all? "Do as I say, or I'll destroy your kingdom and massacre your family?"
[Does someone have an overactive imagination? Perhaps, but that's not why his mind jumped there. It's more that his canon is insane. The other idols have endured similar threats throughout the qualifiers, adding to his impression that the whole resort has "ES" stamped all over it!]
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[ not sorry for his language. if it means adding further emphasis to the level of danger they're all facing, leona finally shows off his collarbone. he probably had ample time to point it out especially how it's not as prominent at this time, but the diamond shaped mark which is adorned with a crown does seem oddly... bright, against his darker complexion. ]
Ya see this? This tattoo or somethin' makes ya compliant. And I mean that. Mine me feel like I was pent up for months. Couldn't think straight at all.
[ no, he's not some crazy alkaloid fan.
stan ra*bits]You're safe for now, but I can't say you will be forever. Doesn't matter who ya think ya are or where you're from. An' that's why I'm playin'. 'cause whatever choice I got, I'm gonna make the moves myself.
[ and that's why leona's smart. play by the rule set you're given. then when you know enough, you can push those boundaries. it's a slow play but a deliberate one. also speedrunning seems terribly inefficient. ]
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But it does raise an alarming question.]
... did they lug you into a tattoo parlor and hold you down in the chair? Or did you simply wake up like that?
[A white-gloved hand drifts towards his own throat, resting on the knot of his jabot. He woke up wearing an outfit he hated, which only fueled his earlier tantrum: a white suit with gold trim and a powder blue suit vest underneath, plus gloves and a wedding veil (the latter of which got tossed away and landed somewhere on the floor). They're not an exact match—there are minor details that were changed, and the quality of the fabric is much higher—but it's still all too eerily reminiscent of something else he wore.
His focus now, however, isn't on the clothes—it's on what might be hidden underneath them, etched into his skin somewhere.]
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[ there are more unsettling and sinister things at work, truth be told. and he really doesn't know how much more hiyori would want to hear about, especially with that kind of... growing curiosity? at least it's less of a snippy and downright annoying attitude and something that is closer to acceptance.
and while leona's not a mind reader, it really doesn't take that much effort to make a few good assumptions--- as high quality as the suit that his 'spouse' is wearing. ]
If you're curious, ya can find out for yourself. An' I can look at the places you can't easily see. Not fair that I haven't seen the rest of my husband while he's seen a lot of me.
[ smirks. ]
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He jumps up from his seat.]
No thanks! You'll just have to imagine how lovely I look. Or wait for me to visit in your dreams, since there's no way anything else would ever happen between us! ♪
[He speaks with an odd, spiteful sort of cheer, brushing past Leona to stride across the room. There's no entertaining that offer; for all he knows, the lion man still wants to eat him! But whether he wants to eat him or "eat him," Hiyori will pass either way!
So, it's off to the bathroom he goes. ... or, er, one of the bathrooms? It seems there's more than one, surprisingly. Honestly, this suite is just unreasonably huge! And he hasn't even explored what's up those golden staircases yet. But anyway, he's found a bathroom, which means it's time to slam the door shut, flip on the lights, and face the mirror.
Admiring his reflection is normally one of his favorite pastimes, but he is sorry to say there is nothing admirable about the sight of him with a frazzled face and a bedhead, dressed in that horrible outfit. With a surge of anger, he pulls off the lace-trimmed gloves and tosses them aside (one lands in the shower, the other on the floor) before examining the front and back of his hands. Nope, nothing there, though that's no great shock since it sounds like the neck is a more probable target. He tugs the jabot loose next, flinging that somewhere too, and pops open some buttons on the collar before leaning forward to get a good look at himself.
Nope. No crown, no diamond, nothing!
It comes as a relief, though only a slight one. First, there are other places to check. And second, well... didn't the lion man say something about the mark "not showing up until later"?
Ugh, he doesn't know what is going on...]
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Looks like I've escaped your fate. This calls for a celebration...♪
[He'll be grabbing a pastry now. Specifically one of the little lattice pastries with berry filling.]
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and that is, well. very funny to him.
he has no response for hiyori as he leaves for the bathroom, simply choosing to stare at all the various breakfast foods. none of them are appealing. he wishes there was at least SOMETHING with more... heft? something substantial that would sit in his stomach. a pastry won't do that. maybe five or six would. that salmon quiche though? it's looking a lot better than it did when hiyori tried to get him to eat it. so.
maybe.
when that green haired brat finally exits to no fanfare whatsoever, leona's already chewing on a piece of said egg and fish tart. that he has to turn to look the other direction, swallow as quickly as possible, and then turn back with a lopsided frown on his face. ]
For now. Guess ya can do whatever ya want until then.
[ back on the bed he goes, watching hiyori with genuine interest now. the fact that he doesn't know about the food and its potential surprises is... well. it could knock him down a peg. and if not now, it will later. that's something leona can be sure of. ]
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Well, whatever. He's given up! He can't starve! Plus, if his suspicions are correct, then the person slash entity behind all this isn't out to kill him.
That person would rather "kill" idols in other ways. Isn't that right?]
Back to bed already?
[He looks back at Leona with a frown (and some flecks of sugar on his lips).]
I know you're eager to dream of me, but I can't have you falling asleep just yet. First, tell me all the attempts to escape you've made. Obviously none of them worked, but I want to know what's already been tried so I don't waste my time trying it too!
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[ what, did hiyori think he'd climb into his lap or sit in a chair adjacent or something like that? leona needs his space and comfort and if the overly curious idol isn't going to provide that, he'll make his own as usual. ]
Well, tryin' to get anythin' out of the employees 'round here just has 'em sayin' the same thing. To enjoy ourselves. They don't get aggressive 'bout it but they're pretty convinced the best thing we can do is be here.
[ and use what they have to offer. the luxuries of the resort are hard to ignore, even though leona would enjoy better amenities. ]
Magic doesn't work. 'm not exactly good with that in the first place, and I'm not gonna start blowin' things up. Apparently they got a place to put unruly people and it's even less comfortable than what I'm used to, so.
[ he clicks his tongue. the taste of quiche oddly makes him want more, but he'll ignore that for now. ]
So unless you got somethin' that I don't, I think you're stuck.
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He listen while chewing his pastry, fighting the urge to interject. "The best thing we can do is be here?" Perhaps that's true of someone with nothing important going on, but he's got a family and a career to get back to (not to mention his adoring fans). That's adulthood, that's responsibility! He does love to relax and enjoy the finer things, but only on days off! And if those days off have been few and far between lately, he still can't complain, since that's what he signed up for when he chose this life.
There must be a way out. Where there's a way in, there's a way out! And there must be a way in, since they're inside the place right now. It's not as though they teleported here by magic, after al—
... er
Wait.]
......
[Hiyori blinks his eyes, looking perplexed. "Magic doesn't work"? "Not good at that in the first place?" What does he mean, exactly? The next thing Leona says sounds pretty discouraging (whoever heard of a resort with a jail?), but he's still hung up on that part.
He finishes the pastry. Leona finishes talking. That was all a lot to take in. But, as usual, the ever-talkative Hiyori Tomoe manages to come out with something.]
So basically, the gist is... you didn't try to get out? Because of that punishment you mentioned?
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leona's not sure what got hiyori's train of thought to finally stop at a relevant station, but it sure is funny to watch! does he have to prove that he's not bullshitting right now? it's not difficult and even without his pen on him, there are some things he's willing to do as long as it doesn't cause any significant amount of blot. and around here, leona's positive that a little stress relief will keep it at bay. keep him from doing something cataclysmic, that he would have to be... stopped. ]
Ya might think it's selfish wantin' to survive, but I'm not gonna risk my hide on a 'maybe'. If our mysterious benefactor was able to make all of this happen, they got a lot of resources and power.
[ one leg is crossed over the other. he leans back, hands against the mattress, and he raises his head so that he can stare at hiyori using his peripheral. practically looking down with a lopsided frown, one that isn't meant for him but for the present situation. ]
Don't be a coward. And again, ya don't really have a choice. Either play fast and finish the game, or don't. It's not like reputation matters or anythin'. 'm sure no one will knows who ya are 'cause I sure don't.
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His lips purse into another frown as Leona continues. Being told "you don't have a choice" does not sit well with him, nor does he think it's accurate. Their captor's resources and power are plain to see, certainly. But he and Nagisa were already up against an enemy with "resources and power" beyond most people's comprehension, and that wasn't enough to stop them.
And he's not convinced this is a different enemy. That's the sticking point.]
Don't call me a coward.
[His tone isn't angry. More bored, really. Perhaps it would've gotten him heated under other circumstances, or if it had come from a different person. But he refuses to sit here and be criticized by someone who couldn't even bother putting up any resistance. He'll just turn back to the table and start another on pastry instead!
Then it's back to running his mouth.]
Caving into their demands without even trying to look for an alternative doesn't suit me at all. Anyone who'd do that isn't fit for my role. That sort of weak-willed person isn't the ones my fans devoted themselves to, trusting with all their heart and soul.
[He says, like there isn't a time when things could've gone differently. If they'd caught him when he was still lonely, perhaps he would've gone along after the initial tantrum. Lonely and bored and all too willing to go along with whoever's wants in order to kill time—that's pretty much how he used to be. But he's been there, done that, and doesn't have a taste for it nowadays, not now that he knows what it feels like to really be loved.]
You can do whatever you want. Be careful, don't be careful, create an illegitimate heir or two—whatever, not my problem! But I'll be doing things my own way. Anything else would simply be a betrayal. And since I'm generous and kind, I might even show you the way out once I do find it. So I'd stop insulting me and try to get on my good side, if I were you. You've left a bad impression, but there's still time to right past wrongs ♪
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he might run into a real buzzsaw of another dorm leader if he keeps up that kind of attitude. one who can really spin words and deals into something dangerous, especially if they're not well equipped to handle that kind of magic... or any magic at all. ]
You sound pretty damn confident. It's gonna be funny when ya get knocked down a few pegs.
[ and leona will make sure he's there to see it. nothing irritates him more than stupid people. stupid in the sense of lacking all kinds of common sense. he doesn't doubt that hiyori doesn't have something that makes him special--- even if it's some kind of incredible delusion manifested into something that is real to him. having 'fans' means nothing to him, the one who has followers of his own.
his cup is sitting on the table next to the pot and there's no way he's going to get up to pour himself a new one. not when he wants to keep his distance from this... misguided individual. the idol can enjoy his pastry. all it takes leona is a flick of the wrist, a finger pointed towards the fancy silver teakettle and gesturing upwards. the pot lifts itself, tilts, and empties its contents into the cup. then with another movement, the cup floats right on over to leona's awaiting hand.
it's not a flex. he's not trying to impress. he's just thirsty. ]
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And once Hiyori is done—once he's cut to the heart of this nefarious scheme, and gotten in contact with the outside world—he'll help the lazy lion man escape. All without charging money or asking for anything in return, except for a little respect (and possibly also for him to put a shirt back on). If that's not generosity, what is?
Why, he ought to demand a statue of himself be built in the kingdom of Savanna-whatever. Instead, he's offering to help solely out of the goodness of his heart. How wonderful, how noble! That's how anyone with any sense should react.
Instead, all he receives is another rude comment in response to his offer. Fine, whatever! Once he finishes his tea and pastry it'll be time to peace out, anyway. But just when he's about to pour himself some more tea, a very odd thing happens.]
............ eh?
[The silver teapot rises, hovering in midair somewhere around his elbow. As it tips itself over the empty cup, Hiyori's brows creep upward, like he can't believe what he's seeing. Is this an illusion? A hallucination? Unless it's just some new-fangled technology. Perhaps there was a self-pour feature all along and he simply didn't notice. But that idea goes whooshing out the window when the teacup whooshes across the room, landing right in the smug lion's grasp.
His shock is plainly visible on his face and probably quite satisfying.]
Huh? You did that? But you said magic doesn't work!
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unless that statue serves a real purpose, there's no way it would ever get built. there's far too many things that need repairing. improving. modernizing. so maybe it could help with the watering efforts? gather sunlight to allow other things around it to be powered? cover the damn thing with outlets so people can charge their equipment. that would be useful. definitely more than what he believes hiyori can be. ]
To escape. Can't use it to escape.
[ ah. now that's the palpable look he's been waiting for. casually sips his tea with his pinky slightly extended as he does so. ]
Like I said. Not gonna try to kill myself over tryin' to get out if I can't get out with what I got. But if there's someone else who can that will appreciate what I have to offer, then that's what I'll use.
[ you know, the kind that can look at leona's toned body and swipe right. ]
Want some?
[ tea, he means. not himself. but he'd serve if that's what hiyori ended up wanting at some point. ]
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He's still pretty stupefied, but he doesn't have time for a "magic is real?!" crisis. How did Leona do the thing he just did? Don't know, who cares! But seeing clear evidence of his capabilities is causing the gears in Hiyori's head to turn, after the shock had ground them to a halt. A long moment of staring, then he shakes his head.]
No, I'm fine, thank you...
[He passes on the tea, too busy thinking. And he'd pass on the other offer too, of course. First of all, Leona's too muscle-y for his tastes! Second, those funny ears are a waste on him and they should've gone to someone cuter! Third, Hiyori doesn't like his attitude. And fourth, well...
How would that even work? One of them would have to do something besides just lie there, and it's sure not going to be him!
No, the question that next comes out of his mouth isn't "Want to roll around on the bed for a while?" His next question is simply this:]
Why can't you use it to escape?
[Yep. He's persisting down that train of thought, leveling Leona with a slightly suspicious stare. It's not that he assumes the lion man could just use magic to tear the whole resort down—that seems a fair bit more advanced than tea-pouring, and could very well be beyond his capabilities. It's more like, has he even tried to use magic to get out? Or would he rather just lounge around all day?]
Pouring scalding hot tea on their head or chucking some china at them could deal with a few security guards, anyway. And you must have some spells up your sleeve other than just that, right?
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anyway. the kettle is safely lowered down, not a drop falling out and making even the tiniest little mess for someone to clean later. as he slowly lowers his cup, leona thinks about what he's already said and how this herbivore can possibly be this hard of hearing? how's he going to hear the nearly silent footsteps of a predator ready to pounce, leap onto his back, and tear into him with a viciousness reserved for those who truly deserve a maiming...
also his ears aren't funny. they're handsome as hell. be jealous.
though, the best jun card does have pretty cute ears.]So I'll ya again. 'm no expert at teleportin' people around. Not really my expertise, if ya care to know.
[ the tea is actually pretty decent. shame that the taste of it has been slightly ruined by his company, but that's no big deal. having to work alongside other thick headed and easily irritating personalities has become a part of his life that he acknowledges will never become a memory. ]
And here's the other thing. 've been strollin' around, 'cause there's really nothin' else better to do. There ain't any actual ways outta the resort proper. The huge garage has no exits even though there are a lot of rich ass lookin' cars.
[ did you know leona can drive? ]
So I dunno if you know what impossible means, but it's almost that. Sorry to say.
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But alright: contrary to what some people might think, he can read between the lines. To wit:]
So the exit is well-hidden, and you don't think we can brute-force our way out.
[Notice that he said "well-hidden" and not "non-existent," though. Because as he points out next,]
But there must be some way out. Otherwise, their promise to send us home once we finish debasing ourselves really would be a baldfaced lie. And you seem to believe that's serious.
[Despite his own lingering skepticism on that front. The lion prince truly seems to believe that if he does what he's told like a good boy, his captors will keep his word and he'll be rewarded. Perhaps that's what he needs to tell himself in order to sleep at night. "It was for good reason, so I had to do it." "Now that I've already started, I might as well keep going." Hiyori knows, or at least he thinks he knows. After all, those were the justifications he used the last time he wore white gloves and a white suit.
But if they expect him to act the part just because he looks the part, they've got another thing coming.
He turns back to the table, reaching for a napkin to wipe the sugar off his fingers.]
In that case, it's settled. I'll just have to play along.
[Though not with that "game." He's just saying he'll make them think he's compliant, rather than launch an all-out rebellion. And, being quite familiar with noble society, he shouldn't have any problem playing the role at all, should he?]
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of course, leona also sees another side: that some could be here to avoid their homes. that's always a possibility. would there be potential factions working against each other? maybe. maybe not. the most entertaining games are the ones where there's a definitive opposing side, so... ]
Either way, playin' along is the best way to do things for now. Even if ya hate it. Doesn't mean you can't pivot, ya know.
[ floating along until it reaches its destination, the cup places itself back by the pot. ]
Ya think ya got somethin' to bring to the table... ideas or anythin' like that, then try it.
[ he's not going to break a sweat doing something that'll just make him have to shower again. too much hot water is bad for the skin, isn't it? ]
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Playing along and playing that "game" are two different things, you know. But as for ideas, well, I know exactly who sent me here. So that's one player in the conspiracy, anyway. And I know what sort of tricks he might try and pull in the future, if he does have a hand in running this place.
[Though not as well as Nagisa and Ibara would. For all his talk, Hiyori really doesn't know much of anything about the mysterious figure called "Gatekeeper," or about those other forces Nagisa has alluded to. He didn't care to know, and those two in Adam haven't shared much of anything with him. But now that lack of knowledge is really coming back to bite him...
He watches that teacup sail through the air again, all without the lion man having to lift a finger. A noble and royal, a prince and an idol. No doubt they've both had an easy lot in life, the current predicament aside. But there's never any shortage of commoners who hunger to see the rich and powerful brought to their knees, is there?]
You must have your share of enemies. Any idea who'd want to see you bark like a dog?
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Psh, nah. Ya think I'd have any enemies?
[ if anything, he'd be the one who would send someone to suck-and-fuck resort but that's... not really his way of going about things either. no, he'd rather just pound someone into submission and have them grovel on their knees. beg for forgiveness. forget their insolence. ]
Even on campus, everyone knows who not to mess with. And thanks to my brother, the king... our people love us. That's the only good thing he really does nowadays.
[ and while leona may dislike certain mages, it doesn't mean it's reciprocated in kind. ]
So maybe ya know who made ya take this vacation, but that doesn't mean it's the same for me.
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And if the enemy is Gatekeeper, well, apparently his dick doesn't work, so jot that down...
Leona's claim that he has no enemies doesn't earn much of a reaction. Hiyori doesn't know him or his kingdom; that might be true, or it might not be true! Still, he's surprised that a prince, of all people (even one who seems a bit too lazy to help govern or pass legislation), wouldn't have acquired some enemies...
Until he catches that one part. "My brother, the king."
Immediate recognition dawns on Hiyori's face. If Leona mentioned that part earlier, he missed it (possibly because he was still stressed over the kidnapping, or possibly because he was distracted by Leona's funny ears!). But now that he's caught it, that explains a lot in his view: not about their abduction, but about Leona.]
So that's how it is.
[He nods like he understands.]
Yep, you do make fewer enemies when you're not involved at all in your family's affairs. You get to lounge around all day thinking, "he's the heir, so that stuff has nothing to do with me." But you might still be valuable for one thing, anyway.
[Drumroll, please.]
Ransom, blackmail, or entertainment value!
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also sucks to be so unlucky, mr. gatekeeper.
anyway. he doesn't like how hiyori suddenly feels enlightened and privileged to leona's life, as if he actually knows what it's like to be someone who could never be in the position that he worked so hard for up until the point where the rug was pulled out from under him. leona frowns, his next huff escaping through flared nostrils. the last thing he wants is to be frustrated by a set of circumstances he can't do anything about while he's here.
the point of escaping is so that he can... go back...
... sniff. ]
'm still very involved. Got a bunch of plans regarding the city to make sure our next hot season doesn't wipe out the fields. Irrigation's a big deal and not just to me, but to everyone who depends on a solid infrastructure.
[ those games of chess he played, the time spent in tutoring... ]
But that's got nothin' to do with ya. And if this ends up bein' some sick joke, I'll make sure whoever did it will suffer. You won't find a trace of 'em left.
[ he's serious. as serious as turning someone into sand and making sure they feel every particle of their being dissolve into something that'd be fitting for a nice hourglass. ]
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He can hear spoken dialogue, though, and Leona's words do grab his attention. They get him to drop the unserious attitude, gaze turning thoughtful. Apparently he underestimated the lion prince—or overestimated his laziness. Leona is involved in running his kingdom, far more than Hiyori is involved in running the Tomoe Foundation, and that merits some respect.
As do his words at the end, which earn an approving smile.]
Now that sounds promising.
[What was that he said earlier? Something about preferring not to see carnage?
But he's not naive. Crimes shouldn't go unpunished (especially not crimes against him), and dirty deeds need to get done sometimes. That's just how the world works, as he goes on to explain.]
It'd be wonderful if I could sing a song that would purify this place. All the nastiness and filth would be purged, and then we could relax and enjoy our quiches without worrying the eggs were poisoned. But that sort of outcome doesn't seem possible, so I'll just have to rely on people like you ♪
[He reaches for the teapot, deciding he does want some more tea, after all. Right now he'll "rely on" Leona not to interfere. But if he does interfere, oh well.]
I'll stay out of the underworld and do the above-ground work. That's what suits someone like me. And once the whole plot's been unraveled, you can sink your teeth into whoever's responsible. That sounds like a good use of both our strengths.
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