[Hiyori leaves his shoes at the door and looks around. No doubt about it—it's a nice suite, similar in size to Leo's, even if it's not a resort-within-a-resort like the two Queen suites he's been inside. He replies:]
That's too bad. I wish Jun-kun could keep his new suite, too. But at least you're taking advantage of the mix-up to throw a party. Maybe we should do the same! ♪
[Even though it's not either of their birthdays. Or Christmas yet.
He's not here (just) to talk about partying, unfortunately. But he isn't sure how to segue into either of the serious subjects he wanted to bring up without abruptly killing the mood. For now, he just continues to look around the area, keeping an eye out for any Cool Godlike Possessions.]
[Loki has been taking full advantage of the suite, but mostly with the bathtub. He doesn’t mind showers, of course. And he’s always thankful to not have to use the bath house to clean himself regularly, but there is nothing better than a private bath.
Being able to hold a proper party has its only pluses as well. He probably would’ve let his birthday pass without notice if he were still in his 5th floor suite.]
It really is a shame that they would let us see how the other half lives and not let us keep it. Though it wouldn’t surprise me if it is an attempt on the part of the House to convince us to be more active in Game 52. It is one of the few ways we can work our way up to better rooms.
[Loki watches Hiyori as he looks around, waiting to see if he’ll bring up his true reason for being there or if he needs a push. After a moment, Loki can’t help himself.]
I do not believe that you came here to speak of our suites though.
It's possible! Though some people, like me, got booted down. I wonder if that was meant as a threat? Or maybe a "See? Look how good you have it! At least you're not worse off!" kind of deal.
[Orrrr Steve fucked up and they're reading too much into it.
Hiyori's examining some corner of the room or another when Loki calls him out, causing him to turn around. No beating around the bush, huh? He smiles a small, wry smile.]
I was curious to know what your suite looked like.
[But it's not the real reason he's here. So after a moment, he says:]
You remember the Punishment Room, don't you? Not just what we saw inside the room, but what we talked about afterwards. Fighting fate, and collaborating with people who can do magic... remember?
You go moved down? Yes I suppose they would’ve had to move people both ways. I am sorry to hear that. I hope have not ended up too low down.
[He thinks of the suites on the second floor that are much too close to the basement and hopes Hiyori isn’t down there.
Loki merely raises a disbelieving eyebrow at the comment about his suite. Though there is probably some truth there, Hiyori is fooling no one. His expression evens out as Hiyori finally gets down to the chase and it is immediately apparent why he did not start with what he really wants. Loki would understand perfectly if Hiyori never wanted to think about that day ever again.]
Yes, I recall.
[Loki manages to keep his tone neutral, but the truth of it is, he also doesn’t like thinking about what happened that day.]
Fortunately, it was just one rank! But apparently that one rank makes the difference between getting marshmallows and not getting marshmallows! When I was down in the lobby the other day, I asked for some hot cocoa with marshmallows. And you know what they said? They said, "Due to a shortage, marshmallows are reserved for Ranks 8 and above!" Can you even believe it? That was so rude!
[He shakes his head, frowning deeply over this perceived injustice.]
Still, things haven't been too bad. My room got smaller, but I'm not down in the basement. And Jun-kun got moved up, so we've just been using his room.
Of course he doesn't want to think about that day. Unfortunately, he thinks about it constantly. It haunts his every waking moment here. And it got him doing a lot of thinking—about how to fight fate, about what happens if Jun disappears, about what happens if he disappears. About what he'd do if worse came to worst.
It's not easy to talk about, though. For now, he broaches the easier of the two topics—the one about magic.]
First, I should tell you I know someone who almost found a way home. He said he used magic to dig into the House's "roots," but that they stopped him before he could open up any paths home. If he hadn't been forced to stop early, he could've succeeded, or so he implied.
[Hiyori relays this in a matter-of-fact tone, not showing any particular emotion, even as the memories of Esikko's punishment flash through his mind.]
Do you think your magic could work in connection with his magic, and do you know anyone else's who could?
[It's not a lot of detail to go on, admittedly. But he doesn't understand much about how magic works.]
[If Loki didn’t already know Hiyori, he might be a little surprised by the marshmallow comment. As someone who, except for more recently, has been on the fifth level for the entire year he’s been at the hotel (has it really been almost a year already?) he’s never had the marshmallows. Though from the way Hiyori acts, he’s going to start trying to get them now.]
I am sorry you are missing your marshmallows. If this happens again, I am sure I could obtain some for you.
[And yes, by obtain, Loki means steal.]
It must be quite handy, being able to share your suites like that.
[Loki has a few friends that have offered to let him use their suites on occasion, but on the same level Hiyori and Jun have. It sounds like a nice option, but one Loki doesn’t assume he’ll ever have.
Whatever he’s expecting Hiyori to say next, it certainly isn’t this and the surprise is evident on Loki’s face. It only takes him a moment to recover before he clearly starts considering the question. He thinks about Sylvie, and how they had combined their magic to tame Alioth together. It’s true that could’ve been different because they use the same magic, but still…]
Yes, I think it is possible. I would have to meet this person and we would have to experiment, but it is definitely something that can happen. As for involving others, I am sure there are many here who have abilities. Perhaps we could get together some of the people from the Showcase and see what might work together.
[Was that insensitive? Quite possibly! As a Rank 5, Loki's probably been deprived of more than just marshmallows throughout his time here. But Hiyori does at least say,]
Right back at you! If you're ever denied marshmallows after all this is done, just let me know. I might have some tricks up my sleeve! ♪
[He's thinking of his birthday gift, which enables him to wrap the staff around his finger, more or less (though only when he's wearing it). Then he pauses when he realizes something.]
Actually, couldn't you just shapeshift into a staff member again? Then you could claim all the complimentary marshmallows you want!
[Or would they see through it...?
In response to the comment about sharing suites, he smiles.]
Yep, it sure is. Jun-kun's awfully lucky to have me so he isn't stuck in the basement! But this time, I'm lucky to have him...♪ And at other times, too, I guess.
[But enough bragging about his lovey-dovey partnership. Time to get to business.
Loki seems receptive to the idea of meeting with other magic users, just as he was last time. Hiyori smiles a little at that and says:]
I'd be happy to arrange that meeting.
[Though one of them's disappeared, he's pretty sure. And he isn't sure how useful the stage magician and the summoner would be, either (the stage magician being Compress and the summoner being Yu). Baizhu and Hua Cheng, however, he knows are still around, and he's on friendly terms with both of them. And then there's another person he wanted to bring up.]
The one who tried to open those pathways wasn't at the Showcase, though. That person was Esikko-kun. Have you met him yet?
[Thankfully, Loki no longer cares very much for these things. If they happen, he enjoys them, but he’s learned to live with less over the last few years. At least here he has access to his magic.]
Oh, I have no issues getting what I need here.
[Loki sounds a little mysterious here, but he’s sure Hiyori can extrapolate. He could shapeshift, or go undetected, or simply use his telekinesis to take what he wishes. It is, in fact, what he’s been doing most of the time while here.
Loki chuckles good-naturedly.]
I am sure he is just as appreciative of you as you are of him.
That would be appreciated. I know you must have met many people here.
[Loki too has befriended many people here, but surprisingly few of them have been magic users. At least so far as he knows. Besides, Loki is well aware that Hiyori’s charm must help for things like this.]
I have actually, though I do not profess to know him well. Is he a magic user as well?
[He'll look forward to a very extravagant birthday party, then.
In response to the "You've met many people" thing:]
Mhm! ♪ I sure have.
[He's pissed some people off, but he's also made friends here. Some of those friends have powers because that's the luck of the draw, but also because he's been seeking out magic users from day one. He'll do his best to arrange a roundtable. With Loki, with Baizhu and Hua Cheng...
And with Esikko, whom he proceeds to talk a little more about.]
I guess you really don't know him well, if you have to ask that.
[It's said with a good-natured smile, not intended to mock. He knows Esikko puts a lot into his magical studies, and that they've been important to him since childhood. If Loki doesn't know he can do magic at all, they probably haven't spent tons of time together. Maybe that could change. Maybe it needs to change. After all, one person can't do everything themselves.
His smile fades a bit as he explains:]
He said he used his magic to grab the House's "roots," and that he tried to "tear apart reality" so he could open some pathways home. He caused other stuff to change, but he got stopped before he could finish with his magic. It does sound like he got close, and I don't think he's given up. But I'm sure the House will be warier going forward, and he also got punished quite badly.
[Something he still feels badly about, even if none of it was his fault. He looks Loki in the eye and finishes:]
So, you should take that as a warning. All this rebellion we're doing could have consequences. But I'm also worried he'll burn out if he keeps working alone. That's sort of why I thought maybe you two could discuss things.
I have really only come across him in passing. And it has been some time. I guess it would have been more accurate to say I have heard of him.
[He’s sure he knows that name and has spoken with him on the network at least, but he cannot recall speaking about magic with him. Though really with how this place tries to make them interact with everyone, it’s hardly a surprise that he can’t always remember details.
As Loki listens to Hiyori though, he wishes he had paid more attention to this Esikko before. Frowning in thought as he lets the details sink in.]
Yes, I think I would like to talk to him very much. I am ashamed to say I have not made it so far in any of my own research and I would like to hear more details on what happened with him. [Loki doesn’t even acknowledge the punishment part. He’s no stranger to that and he’s pretty sure he’s endured much worse than anything the Hotel can dish out.
Though assuming in this place has gotten him into quite a lot of trouble before.]
I will happily discuss this with him and everyone you think might be helpful. When do you think is the soonest we could organize getting everyone together?
Well, it's never too late to reconnect. Perhaps you could even start your own club or society! The "Magic Research Club"! Or the "Society for Magical Research"! ♪
[This is just the Magic Showcase all over again...
He smiles, trying to stay upbeat despite the dreary subject matter. The truth is that he can't blame Loki if Loki gets turned off from rebelling against the House. Who wants to be punished? It's easier not to rock the boat. To keep your head down and live with the status quo no, matter how unbearable things get. It's a human nature. A matter of self-preservation.
But if anyone's fearless or foolhardy enough to stand against the House no matter what the House might do to them, it's probably Loki. That's what he figured. He's still willing to go against the House, too, of course.
Though he doesn't exactly have a great answer for that last question.]
I guess it depends on how many people are included in "everyone"... I can tell Esikko-kun you want to talk to him, unless you'd rather reach out yourself. His username is easy to remember, since it's "wildflower!" But as for Baizhu and Hua Cheng...
[A pause, and then he says:]
Maybe we can all go to the Red Cardinal? For a Magic Showcase winners' meal! That was supposed to be one of the prizes. It's just that we never found a time that worked for all of us, and then everyone sort of forgot. But I'm sure Jin Mingming would be happy to accommodate all of us.
[Loki hums non-committally. It’s not that he doesn’t want to, or even that he’s worried about the House might do, but he’s starting to be concerned with how many people he’s dragging into this. It does sound as though this Esikko is already in for a pound himself, but every once in a while, Loki starts to revert back to his old ways of trying to do everything alone.
He’s even less sure about starting a team. Reasonably he knows that Hiyori is right, that it’s a good idea, but Loki in any kind of leadership position does not typically go well.]
You may tell him I would like to talk to him. I can speak with Baizhu myself. You are such a natural leader though. I could see it with how you got the Magic Showcase together, and you do seem to have all the contacts. Perhaps it would be easier for you to get everyone together?
[There, that sounds perfectly reasonable. Loki wouldn’t want Hiyori to think he’s afraid or lacking confidences, but as it turns out, this place will grind anyone down eventually. He does look a little relieved when Hiyori mentions the Red Cardinal though.]
Yes, that would be the perfect excuse. The House will not suspect if we simply all get together for that reason. And it would be easier to speak with everyone at the same time.
Then I guess I'll talk to him, you'll talk to Baizhu, and we'll all talk to each other! ♪
[He injects his voice with plenty of cheer.
Even though they're talking about business, not some social gathering. And there isn't a lot to be cheerful about, in all honestly. He's not really sure anything will come of their meeting; not sure they'll ever truly break free. Are they destined to live as caged birds forever? Is it that or turn to stone?
But Esikko did get close to opening up paths home, or so he said. If he combined his magic with a god's, who knows what might happen? And if nothing else, Hiyori figures that having other people to work with might keep him from running himself into the ground. If he can prevent that, none of this will be a waste.
He smiles and concludes:]
Then that's where we'll meet.
[The Red Cardinal.
That's the end of that topic. For now, anyway. But it's not all he came here to say. This next one is more difficult, and he pauses for a moment, smile dulling just a bit.]
There's something else I wanted to ask you for, too. Though it's nothing you'd need to do right now.
Yes, that will work. I will message Baizhu shortly and let you know what happens. [He’s only just begun to get to know Baizhu, but he thinks he will agree to at least speak of these things. Hopefully he’s correct about that.
Loki also thinks more and more that it really would be a better idea for Hiyori to be in charge of organizing all of this. Despite the cheer in his voice, Loki can hear how serious he is about all of this as well. His charm and way with people in general will do them all good. Loki’s attempted leadership enough in his life to know that he is not suited to it and to know when someone else is.
What Hiyori says next has him intrigued.]
Okay, what is it you need from me?
[Loki is pretty sure he’ll say yes to whatever it is. He knows all too well how much Hiyori has helped him out and doesn’t foresee saying no now, but the way he asks has Loki a little worried.]
[If only he could leave it there. With him thanking Loki for reaching out to Baizhu. Alas, he can't.
He thinks about how Baizhu reacted when he tried to talk about this with him. He did promise, in the end, but he wasn't happy. And Hiyori knows, after the experience they shared in the Punishment Room, that this won't make Loki happy, either. Still, he comes out and says it.]
I asked Baizhu-san about this too, actually. Basically, I wanted you both to know that I keep some notes in my room. About how the resort works, what happens to people here, what the House and the suits are like, and all that stuff. Then I wrote some personal messages too, for people here and people back home.
[A slight pause, before he clarifies:]
Kind of like the note that other "me" wrote for Jun-kun.
[He forces a smile. It's hard; he's not in quite as bad a state as he was when he spoke to Baizhu, because Rinne's disappearance isn't still a fresh wound. But it still hurts, still makes him feel scared. Every day, he wonders who will be next: will it be someone he's met here, or someone from his world? If it's the latter—if it's inevitable that someone else from his world will disappear—then he can only hope that it's him instead of Jun. Even though he knows that's the last thing his partner would ever want...
He shakes off those feelings of dread and guilt, looking Loki in the eye as he asks:]
So if I ever disappear and become a statue like Rinne-senpai, I was hoping you could recover those. You'd have an easier time with that than Baizhu-san, since you've already broken into that storage room before. We both know it takes a while to find things in there, though, so I wondered if it might be better to leave you with a copy.
[There's a longer pause now; he's watching, gauging Loki's response.]
[It becomes evident rather quickly that whatever it is that Hiyori is about to ask him is rather serious. He can see the other man is trying to keep up his usual peppy spirit, but there’s a sadness there, just lurking under the surface, that he can see and understand. A lot has happened since they had become friends and Loki doubts the other man has been unaffected by it all.
Though his first instinct is to jump in, start talking, Loki manages to reign himself in and just listen. It’s something he’s gotten better at in recent years, not just distracting with words, but actually listening to what others are saying to him. Even when it’s something hard to hear. And what Hiyori is saying is very hard to hear.
Loki understands though. He had also been friendly with Rinne and had been horrified when he’d seen his statue. Helping Reign move the statue to his suite had been one of the hardest things he’d had to do since arriving at the Hotel. And Rinne certainly isn’t the only person he’s lost. Scott might have come back in a younger form, but he is not the friend Loki once had. All that Loki has of him is his old visor. Something he has yet to tell his younger variant.]
So we are clear, you wish for me to take the information about the Hotel that you have gathered as well as letters to those you care about and make sure they get where they need to go, in the event that you suffer the same fate as some of our friends who have left abruptly?
[His lips tick up a bit more and he nods shortly, grateful for the understanding.]
Mm. That sounds exactly right.
[One day, they'll watch musicals and get up to the fun kind if mischief. One day, he'll share Jun's cooking with Loki and brag about how well he trained his partner. One day, they'll talk about more cheerful things.
But for now he just continues with his request.]
I haven't finished them all yet. But if you don't mind, I'll hand you some letters meant for those closest to me. You can keep them at the bottom of a drawer somewhere and forget them, unless I do disappear.
[It makes a lot of sense, actually. Loki wonders if he should do the same, write up some notes for those he’s become closest to here, but what would he even say? What would make any sort of difference to those left behind? Does anyone here even care that much for him? Loki definitely has friends, he knows that, but it isn’t like he has someone the way Hiyori has Jun.]
I do not mind at all. Though I hope I never have to hand them out. I would much prefer we figure out how to properly get home, but yes, I will do this for you.
[Loki comes up short then, frowning slightly in confusion.]
[He's grateful Loki isn't putting up a fuss. That he doesn't tell him it won't happen to him, or try to convince him not to expect the worst. That he isn't stricken the way Baizhu was. Instead he says he'll do but that he hopes he never has to, and Hiyori smiles, agreeing readily.]
Thanks a lot! ♪
[And then:]
It's the same for me too, of course. I haven't given up yet. And I'm sure others won't, either.
[Apart from Loki, there are others. There's Bakugo, who intends to use his Wish to defeat the House—a true hero. There's Esikko, who already tried to get them out of here once, and suffered the consequences for it. There's Topaz, who's always working hard with everyone's well-being in mind. He's met all sorts of amazing people here, with all sorts of powers.
But all the same, it's been a while, and no one's succeeded at overthrowing the House or finding a way home yet. When it does happen—and in his heart he does believe that it's a "when" and not an "if"—there's no telling when that will be. Or indeed, whether he'll still be around for it.
Despite harboring that grim outlook, though, his smile is genuine when he nods at the end, the look in his eyes warm.]
Of course! I was raised in a noble household, so I had all sorts of manners drilled into me. That's how I know it would be the height of rudeness to leave without saying goodbye, or giving you a proper thank you. You've done a lot for me, after all.
[He wouldn't entrust his final wishes to just anyone.]
[It is the least he can do, really. Loki doesn’t like the thought of things going wrong and needing to hand out those notes. He would completely understand Baizhu’s reaction as well, but it seems to him that despite how much he doesn’t want something like that to happen to Hiyori, it doesn’t mean it won’t. So he will do what he can for his friend.]
You are most welcome. I do hope none of us come to the point where we feel we need to give up. I would not want to see any of us become like the more long term residents here.
[Loki has met some of those people and he is glad they are all working so hard, but he can admit, if only to himself, that he has not been putting his all into figuring this place out with others. It has mostly only been Hiyori pushing him along. It seems Loki has fallen back into old habits by trying to figure this place out on his own, at least for the most part.]
Ah yes, manners are everything. I had the same lessons drilled into me as well.
[Even if he didn’t always keep in the habit, as it were. He’s only glad Frigga didn’t see most of those times.] Well then, thank you. I appreciate you thinking of me. But really, I would have to say that it is you who has done much for me.
We've been here for a while at this point, and we haven't become anything like them. I'm sure that speaks to our ironclad sense of self. Though it might also help that I've stayed out of the casino. I heard the dealers there like sucking up people's lifeforce, whatever that means.
[He keeps his tone light. There's more he could say; without Jun to ground him, he honestly doesn't know how he would've turned out in this environment. Would he have fallen back into old habits, treating people like tools, passing his time doing nothing useful? Would he have stopped caring about anything? He likes to think he would've tried to get home, that he wouldn't want to leave Nagisa or the rest of his makeshift family behind. But that desire could've led him to some dark places, too. When people are desperate enough...
Well, there's no use speculating about what-ifs. And maybe his soul would've been fine, since he still would've had companions like Loki by his side. People who value him as more than just a card to be obtained. His eyes shine as he says:]
Then let's make a toast. When we finally go out for drinks, we'll toast to our friendship! To all that we've done for each other, and all that we will do...♪
[Loki can’t help but smile fondly. He would like to believe that too. That they will come through this with their minds intact no matter how long it takes for them to get out of here, but seeing how the long term guests are and knowing his own past issues, he is not overly optimistic. It just makes him more convinced that they need to figure this out as quickly as possible.]
Yes, I tend to stay out of the casino as well, though that is only part of the reason. Mostly I just do not care so much about gambling. Even when not actively working to get out of here, there are much more pleasant places in the resort to visit.
[If anyone knows about how dark you can go in desperate times, it is definitely Loki. He is also the one who would know about how to come back from that. He also has no intention of ever letting Hiyori fall like that, nor any of his friends. No matter what happens here, he will do everything he can from preventing such things, Hiyori need not worry about that.]
That sounds like a wonderful plan. We should do that soon.
True! There's lots to do, even with the theme being what it is. I wouldn't mind taking Jun-kun and the rest of our unit to a real resort once this is over.
[If it's ever over. With every day that passes, he's less sure it will be.
But he won't succumb to those fears. Not now, and hopefully not ever. Even if things never improve at all, even if he's destined to disappear, even if he and Jun-kun and Leo-kun are absolutely doomed, he wants to be seen as someone who smiled until the end.]
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no subject
That's too bad. I wish Jun-kun could keep his new suite, too. But at least you're taking advantage of the mix-up to throw a party. Maybe we should do the same! ♪
[Even though it's not either of their birthdays. Or Christmas yet.
He's not here (just) to talk about partying, unfortunately. But he isn't sure how to segue into either of the serious subjects he wanted to bring up without abruptly killing the mood. For now, he just continues to look around the area, keeping an eye out for any Cool Godlike Possessions.]
no subject
Being able to hold a proper party has its only pluses as well. He probably would’ve let his birthday pass without notice if he were still in his 5th floor suite.]
It really is a shame that they would let us see how the other half lives and not let us keep it. Though it wouldn’t surprise me if it is an attempt on the part of the House to convince us to be more active in Game 52. It is one of the few ways we can work our way up to better rooms.
[Loki watches Hiyori as he looks around, waiting to see if he’ll bring up his true reason for being there or if he needs a push. After a moment, Loki can’t help himself.]
I do not believe that you came here to speak of our suites though.
no subject
[Orrrr Steve fucked up and they're reading too much into it.
Hiyori's examining some corner of the room or another when Loki calls him out, causing him to turn around. No beating around the bush, huh? He smiles a small, wry smile.]
I was curious to know what your suite looked like.
[But it's not the real reason he's here. So after a moment, he says:]
You remember the Punishment Room, don't you? Not just what we saw inside the room, but what we talked about afterwards. Fighting fate, and collaborating with people who can do magic... remember?
no subject
[He thinks of the suites on the second floor that are much too close to the basement and hopes Hiyori isn’t down there.
Loki merely raises a disbelieving eyebrow at the comment about his suite. Though there is probably some truth there, Hiyori is fooling no one. His expression evens out as Hiyori finally gets down to the chase and it is immediately apparent why he did not start with what he really wants. Loki would understand perfectly if Hiyori never wanted to think about that day ever again.]
Yes, I recall.
[Loki manages to keep his tone neutral, but the truth of it is, he also doesn’t like thinking about what happened that day.]
1/3
[He shakes his head, frowning deeply over this perceived injustice.]
2/3
Still, things haven't been too bad. My room got smaller, but I'm not down in the basement. And Jun-kun got moved up, so we've just been using his room.
3/3
Of course he doesn't want to think about that day. Unfortunately, he thinks about it constantly. It haunts his every waking moment here. And it got him doing a lot of thinking—about how to fight fate, about what happens if Jun disappears, about what happens if he disappears. About what he'd do if worse came to worst.
It's not easy to talk about, though. For now, he broaches the easier of the two topics—the one about magic.]
First, I should tell you I know someone who almost found a way home. He said he used magic to dig into the House's "roots," but that they stopped him before he could open up any paths home. If he hadn't been forced to stop early, he could've succeeded, or so he implied.
[Hiyori relays this in a matter-of-fact tone, not showing any particular emotion, even as the memories of Esikko's punishment flash through his mind.]
Do you think your magic could work in connection with his magic, and do you know anyone else's who could?
[It's not a lot of detail to go on, admittedly. But he doesn't understand much about how magic works.]
no subject
I am sorry you are missing your marshmallows. If this happens again, I am sure I could obtain some for you.
[And yes, by obtain, Loki means steal.]
It must be quite handy, being able to share your suites like that.
[Loki has a few friends that have offered to let him use their suites on occasion, but on the same level Hiyori and Jun have. It sounds like a nice option, but one Loki doesn’t assume he’ll ever have.
Whatever he’s expecting Hiyori to say next, it certainly isn’t this and the surprise is evident on Loki’s face. It only takes him a moment to recover before he clearly starts considering the question. He thinks about Sylvie, and how they had combined their magic to tame Alioth together. It’s true that could’ve been different because they use the same magic, but still…]
Yes, I think it is possible. I would have to meet this person and we would have to experiment, but it is definitely something that can happen. As for involving others, I am sure there are many here who have abilities. Perhaps we could get together some of the people from the Showcase and see what might work together.
no subject
Right back at you! If you're ever denied marshmallows after all this is done, just let me know. I might have some tricks up my sleeve! ♪
[He's thinking of his birthday gift, which enables him to wrap the staff around his finger, more or less (though only when he's wearing it). Then he pauses when he realizes something.]
Actually, couldn't you just shapeshift into a staff member again? Then you could claim all the complimentary marshmallows you want!
[Or would they see through it...?
In response to the comment about sharing suites, he smiles.]
Yep, it sure is. Jun-kun's awfully lucky to have me so he isn't stuck in the basement! But this time, I'm lucky to have him...♪ And at other times, too, I guess.
[But enough bragging about his lovey-dovey partnership. Time to get to business.
Loki seems receptive to the idea of meeting with other magic users, just as he was last time. Hiyori smiles a little at that and says:]
I'd be happy to arrange that meeting.
[Though one of them's disappeared, he's pretty sure. And he isn't sure how useful the stage magician and the summoner would be, either (the stage magician being Compress and the summoner being Yu). Baizhu and Hua Cheng, however, he knows are still around, and he's on friendly terms with both of them. And then there's another person he wanted to bring up.]
The one who tried to open those pathways wasn't at the Showcase, though. That person was Esikko-kun. Have you met him yet?
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Oh, I have no issues getting what I need here.
[Loki sounds a little mysterious here, but he’s sure Hiyori can extrapolate. He could shapeshift, or go undetected, or simply use his telekinesis to take what he wishes. It is, in fact, what he’s been doing most of the time while here.
Loki chuckles good-naturedly.]
I am sure he is just as appreciative of you as you are of him.
That would be appreciated. I know you must have met many people here.
[Loki too has befriended many people here, but surprisingly few of them have been magic users. At least so far as he knows. Besides, Loki is well aware that Hiyori’s charm must help for things like this.]
I have actually, though I do not profess to know him well. Is he a magic user as well?
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[He'll look forward to a very extravagant birthday party, then.
In response to the "You've met many people" thing:]
Mhm! ♪ I sure have.
[He's pissed some people off, but he's also made friends here. Some of those friends have powers because that's the luck of the draw, but also because he's been seeking out magic users from day one. He'll do his best to arrange a roundtable. With Loki, with Baizhu and Hua Cheng...
And with Esikko, whom he proceeds to talk a little more about.]
I guess you really don't know him well, if you have to ask that.
[It's said with a good-natured smile, not intended to mock. He knows Esikko puts a lot into his magical studies, and that they've been important to him since childhood. If Loki doesn't know he can do magic at all, they probably haven't spent tons of time together. Maybe that could change. Maybe it needs to change. After all, one person can't do everything themselves.
His smile fades a bit as he explains:]
He said he used his magic to grab the House's "roots," and that he tried to "tear apart reality" so he could open some pathways home. He caused other stuff to change, but he got stopped before he could finish with his magic. It does sound like he got close, and I don't think he's given up. But I'm sure the House will be warier going forward, and he also got punished quite badly.
[Something he still feels badly about, even if none of it was his fault. He looks Loki in the eye and finishes:]
So, you should take that as a warning. All this rebellion we're doing could have consequences. But I'm also worried he'll burn out if he keeps working alone. That's sort of why I thought maybe you two could discuss things.
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[He’s sure he knows that name and has spoken with him on the network at least, but he cannot recall speaking about magic with him. Though really with how this place tries to make them interact with everyone, it’s hardly a surprise that he can’t always remember details.
As Loki listens to Hiyori though, he wishes he had paid more attention to this Esikko before. Frowning in thought as he lets the details sink in.]
Yes, I think I would like to talk to him very much. I am ashamed to say I have not made it so far in any of my own research and I would like to hear more details on what happened with him. [Loki doesn’t even acknowledge the punishment part. He’s no stranger to that and he’s pretty sure he’s endured much worse than anything the Hotel can dish out.
Though assuming in this place has gotten him into quite a lot of trouble before.]
I will happily discuss this with him and everyone you think might be helpful. When do you think is the soonest we could organize getting everyone together?
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[This is just the Magic Showcase all over again...
He smiles, trying to stay upbeat despite the dreary subject matter. The truth is that he can't blame Loki if Loki gets turned off from rebelling against the House. Who wants to be punished? It's easier not to rock the boat. To keep your head down and live with the status quo no, matter how unbearable things get. It's a human nature. A matter of self-preservation.
But if anyone's fearless or foolhardy enough to stand against the House no matter what the House might do to them, it's probably Loki. That's what he figured. He's still willing to go against the House, too, of course.
Though he doesn't exactly have a great answer for that last question.]
I guess it depends on how many people are included in "everyone"... I can tell Esikko-kun you want to talk to him, unless you'd rather reach out yourself. His username is easy to remember, since it's "wildflower!" But as for Baizhu and Hua Cheng...
[A pause, and then he says:]
Maybe we can all go to the Red Cardinal? For a Magic Showcase winners' meal! That was supposed to be one of the prizes. It's just that we never found a time that worked for all of us, and then everyone sort of forgot. But I'm sure Jin Mingming would be happy to accommodate all of us.
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He’s even less sure about starting a team. Reasonably he knows that Hiyori is right, that it’s a good idea, but Loki in any kind of leadership position does not typically go well.]
You may tell him I would like to talk to him. I can speak with Baizhu myself. You are such a natural leader though. I could see it with how you got the Magic Showcase together, and you do seem to have all the contacts. Perhaps it would be easier for you to get everyone together?
[There, that sounds perfectly reasonable. Loki wouldn’t want Hiyori to think he’s afraid or lacking confidences, but as it turns out, this place will grind anyone down eventually. He does look a little relieved when Hiyori mentions the Red Cardinal though.]
Yes, that would be the perfect excuse. The House will not suspect if we simply all get together for that reason. And it would be easier to speak with everyone at the same time.
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[He injects his voice with plenty of cheer.
Even though they're talking about business, not some social gathering. And there isn't a lot to be cheerful about, in all honestly. He's not really sure anything will come of their meeting; not sure they'll ever truly break free. Are they destined to live as caged birds forever? Is it that or turn to stone?
But Esikko did get close to opening up paths home, or so he said. If he combined his magic with a god's, who knows what might happen? And if nothing else, Hiyori figures that having other people to work with might keep him from running himself into the ground. If he can prevent that, none of this will be a waste.
He smiles and concludes:]
Then that's where we'll meet.
[The Red Cardinal.
That's the end of that topic. For now, anyway. But it's not all he came here to say. This next one is more difficult, and he pauses for a moment, smile dulling just a bit.]
There's something else I wanted to ask you for, too. Though it's nothing you'd need to do right now.
[Or ever, hopefully.
But he knows hoping gets you nothing here.]
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Loki also thinks more and more that it really would be a better idea for Hiyori to be in charge of organizing all of this. Despite the cheer in his voice, Loki can hear how serious he is about all of this as well. His charm and way with people in general will do them all good. Loki’s attempted leadership enough in his life to know that he is not suited to it and to know when someone else is.
What Hiyori says next has him intrigued.]
Okay, what is it you need from me?
[Loki is pretty sure he’ll say yes to whatever it is. He knows all too well how much Hiyori has helped him out and doesn’t foresee saying no now, but the way he asks has Loki a little worried.]
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[If only he could leave it there. With him thanking Loki for reaching out to Baizhu. Alas, he can't.
He thinks about how Baizhu reacted when he tried to talk about this with him. He did promise, in the end, but he wasn't happy. And Hiyori knows, after the experience they shared in the Punishment Room, that this won't make Loki happy, either. Still, he comes out and says it.]
I asked Baizhu-san about this too, actually. Basically, I wanted you both to know that I keep some notes in my room. About how the resort works, what happens to people here, what the House and the suits are like, and all that stuff. Then I wrote some personal messages too, for people here and people back home.
[A slight pause, before he clarifies:]
Kind of like the note that other "me" wrote for Jun-kun.
[He forces a smile. It's hard; he's not in quite as bad a state as he was when he spoke to Baizhu, because Rinne's disappearance isn't still a fresh wound. But it still hurts, still makes him feel scared. Every day, he wonders who will be next: will it be someone he's met here, or someone from his world? If it's the latter—if it's inevitable that someone else from his world will disappear—then he can only hope that it's him instead of Jun. Even though he knows that's the last thing his partner would ever want...
He shakes off those feelings of dread and guilt, looking Loki in the eye as he asks:]
So if I ever disappear and become a statue like Rinne-senpai, I was hoping you could recover those. You'd have an easier time with that than Baizhu-san, since you've already broken into that storage room before. We both know it takes a while to find things in there, though, so I wondered if it might be better to leave you with a copy.
[There's a longer pause now; he's watching, gauging Loki's response.]
Would that be too much to ask?
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Though his first instinct is to jump in, start talking, Loki manages to reign himself in and just listen. It’s something he’s gotten better at in recent years, not just distracting with words, but actually listening to what others are saying to him. Even when it’s something hard to hear. And what Hiyori is saying is very hard to hear.
Loki understands though. He had also been friendly with Rinne and had been horrified when he’d seen his statue. Helping Reign move the statue to his suite had been one of the hardest things he’d had to do since arriving at the Hotel. And Rinne certainly isn’t the only person he’s lost. Scott might have come back in a younger form, but he is not the friend Loki once had. All that Loki has of him is his old visor. Something he has yet to tell his younger variant.]
So we are clear, you wish for me to take the information about the Hotel that you have gathered as well as letters to those you care about and make sure they get where they need to go, in the event that you suffer the same fate as some of our friends who have left abruptly?
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Mm. That sounds exactly right.
[One day, they'll watch musicals and get up to the fun kind if mischief. One day, he'll share Jun's cooking with Loki and brag about how well he trained his partner. One day, they'll talk about more cheerful things.
But for now he just continues with his request.]
I haven't finished them all yet. But if you don't mind, I'll hand you some letters meant for those closest to me. You can keep them at the bottom of a drawer somewhere and forget them, unless I do disappear.
And there will be one for you, too, of course.
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I do not mind at all. Though I hope I never have to hand them out. I would much prefer we figure out how to properly get home, but yes, I will do this for you.
[Loki comes up short then, frowning slightly in confusion.]
One for me?
[That is unexpected.]
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Thanks a lot! ♪
[And then:]
It's the same for me too, of course. I haven't given up yet. And I'm sure others won't, either.
[Apart from Loki, there are others. There's Bakugo, who intends to use his Wish to defeat the House—a true hero. There's Esikko, who already tried to get them out of here once, and suffered the consequences for it. There's Topaz, who's always working hard with everyone's well-being in mind. He's met all sorts of amazing people here, with all sorts of powers.
But all the same, it's been a while, and no one's succeeded at overthrowing the House or finding a way home yet. When it does happen—and in his heart he does believe that it's a "when" and not an "if"—there's no telling when that will be. Or indeed, whether he'll still be around for it.
Despite harboring that grim outlook, though, his smile is genuine when he nods at the end, the look in his eyes warm.]
Of course! I was raised in a noble household, so I had all sorts of manners drilled into me. That's how I know it would be the height of rudeness to leave without saying goodbye, or giving you a proper thank you. You've done a lot for me, after all.
[He wouldn't entrust his final wishes to just anyone.]
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You are most welcome. I do hope none of us come to the point where we feel we need to give up. I would not want to see any of us become like the more long term residents here.
[Loki has met some of those people and he is glad they are all working so hard, but he can admit, if only to himself, that he has not been putting his all into figuring this place out with others. It has mostly only been Hiyori pushing him along. It seems Loki has fallen back into old habits by trying to figure this place out on his own, at least for the most part.]
Ah yes, manners are everything. I had the same lessons drilled into me as well.
[Even if he didn’t always keep in the habit, as it were. He’s only glad Frigga didn’t see most of those times.] Well then, thank you. I appreciate you thinking of me. But really, I would have to say that it is you who has done much for me.
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[He keeps his tone light. There's more he could say; without Jun to ground him, he honestly doesn't know how he would've turned out in this environment. Would he have fallen back into old habits, treating people like tools, passing his time doing nothing useful? Would he have stopped caring about anything? He likes to think he would've tried to get home, that he wouldn't want to leave Nagisa or the rest of his makeshift family behind. But that desire could've led him to some dark places, too. When people are desperate enough...
Well, there's no use speculating about what-ifs. And maybe his soul would've been fine, since he still would've had companions like Loki by his side. People who value him as more than just a card to be obtained. His eyes shine as he says:]
Then let's make a toast. When we finally go out for drinks, we'll toast to our friendship! To all that we've done for each other, and all that we will do...♪
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Yes, I tend to stay out of the casino as well, though that is only part of the reason. Mostly I just do not care so much about gambling. Even when not actively working to get out of here, there are much more pleasant places in the resort to visit.
[If anyone knows about how dark you can go in desperate times, it is definitely Loki. He is also the one who would know about how to come back from that. He also has no intention of ever letting Hiyori fall like that, nor any of his friends. No matter what happens here, he will do everything he can from preventing such things, Hiyori need not worry about that.]
That sounds like a wonderful plan. We should do that soon.
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[If it's ever over. With every day that passes, he's less sure it will be.
But he won't succumb to those fears. Not now, and hopefully not ever. Even if things never improve at all, even if he's destined to disappear, even if he and Jun-kun and Leo-kun are absolutely doomed, he wants to be seen as someone who smiled until the end.]
Mhm! ♪ Then it's settled.
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