【 Thank you for choosing the Golden Peacock, 5-star resort and casino. You are currently registered as a WILDCARD in our system.
Due to a high volume of check-ins, temporary accommodations have been made in our parking garage for all new arrivals. We aim to have all guests moved into their reserved rooms as soon as possible. We deeply apologize for any inconvenience!
All are invited to There Is No Tomorrow, a Phoenix Casino soiree to celebrate our beloved guests. The festivities will begin at 1800 hours on January 20th and end at 1800 hours on January 27th. Please look forward to 168 hours of delight.
In an effort to raise happiness and encourage better guest relationships, attendance is required. The house will assist guests that are too shy to appear of their own accord. Please note that black tie attire is mandatory. As always, we hope you enjoy your stay! 】
PARKING GARAGE
ANY CAR IN A STORM
PHOENIX CASINO HALL
WELCOME TO THE NEXT 168 HOURS
Phoenix Casino is a-flutter with activity and packed to the beak with guests. As a famously ever-changing space, the staff would be remiss if they didn't deck the crown jewel of the Golden Peacock out. The casino glitters from top to bottom, shining brighter than diamonds, rubies, sapphires, opals! Party-goers are shiny and glamorous with picture perfect makeup, fluttering gowns, and sharp suits. Card tables are packed and the slot machines are a-ringing as guests play, play, play! Prizes, luxury, booze, attractive people, it's the place that everyone wants to be at.
Those people being dragged inside by some invisible force...? Silly, they were so excited to come that their bodies moved before they realized what was happening. Those are struggles of joy and definitely not the casino's infamous ghost hands dragging unwilling guests to the party at the behest of the house. Look, they're literally hurling their bodies at the card tables with unrestrained glee!
All clocks indicating day hours and night hours have been removed from the casino. Once a guest has entered, their Watch will jam, making it impossible to keep track of the time. You don't need to worry about that tonight.
▶ All characters on the TDM are WILDCARDS, which means they have not yet been assigned a card value. Suits will not manifest until characters are accepted into the game.
▶ All TDMs are game canon. This TDM acts as the game's January event.
▶ Current characters may top level on the TDM. Any current characters posting to the TDM should note they are current in their subject header.
▶ The top level directory is for new characters only. We want to make sure new characters are prioritized and receive attention! If you would be interested in a game invitation, you can note that in your comment header. This month we also have an ongoing ATP / EMP where players can connect. Please feel free to utilize this for all of your peafowl needs!
▶ If you aren't satisfied with these prompts, please feel free to check out our LOCATIONS to explore more of the resort!
▶ Smut threads that take place on this TDM can be used for rewards. If both parties in the smut thread join the game, you may retroactively apply the character's initial card values to your 52 bank. If one character does not join the game the thread will not be applicable toward rewards (as that character would not have a card value). The character that does join would still receive a small payout for the encounter. Hopefully it was a fun thread regardless!
▶ We ask you to kindly add content warnings to your threads as appropriate.
▶ If you do not currently have permissions and kinks listed in your character’s journal we suggest leaving a note in your top level of any limits or boundaries for other players to reference.
[Well, Akira will be in for a very rude awakening when he realizes that this dream of his is inexplicably long (although a nice way to explain everything weird going on, Yusuke wishes he had such luxury).
Yusuke's way too invested in the dice and "fate" they'll bring down upon them and his brows scrunch in confusion when he sees 'slap nose'. That's so... ordinary? Ridiculous even. It's nothing like schemes Hotel tend to make.
Before he manages to comment about it, he catches Akira's gaze and brings up a hand-]
...If you give me a nosebleed, I will punch you back. [One of the wait staff mutters something that 'it's not how the game works', but Yusuke ignores him. He plays his own game WITHININ the given game.]
[give him like a week, he'll figure it out!!! or perhaps he'll figure it out sooner when he realizes not everything about this place is in accordance with his own wants]
[like. . .]
[. . . the dice. . .]
[Akira stares at them with eyes squinted like a man who just had his coffee stolen. then Yusuke lifts a hand, and Akira immediately lifts two, palms facing forward, a small flush blossoming to life on his own cheeks]
I-- I wouldn't--
[he could never!! he already knows that this "slap" isn't going to be much of a slap at all]
[It would be quite a feat to have the ability to force the dice to roll the way you want. Perhaps Akira can do such a thing, but the Hotel does block a lot of abilities and magic.
That roll remains the way it is.
And now they are both staring at it with their hands raised. Yusuke sighs, wondering how and why he even considered that Akira would want to hurt him!? Outrageous.]
I- I know. Forgive me- I didn't mean to doubt you. [This place has made him paranoid, in a way.]
You do need to go through with it, however- Hotel likes to, [he pauses, looking for words,] "punish" people who leave the games after they start them.
[not his precious people!! he could never!! and. . . punishments--? wait, that doesn't feel right, either. . .?]
[at any rate, Akira lowers his hands his hands back to the table; the playful impishness that had danced across his expression just moments earlier has faded away, replaced by a frown with concern etched around the corners]
[. . .]
Hn. Well, I have an idea. [always one to play by his own rules, Akira leans forward, gesturing for Fox to do the same. he has a few questions to ask after this, but first things are first. . .!] C'mere for a second?
[Mostly in the form of insane amounts of aphrodisiacs, suit-tattoos acting up (Yusuke's is on the palm of his hand, a diamond), or some kind of lock-and-key situation that is embarrassing beyond every belief.
And he'll admit, he's a bit sad that the playfulness had disappeared from Akira's face, but he cannot blame him, especially after what Yusuke said.]
Hmm? [They shouldn't dally too much with the execution of the dares, but he goes along with it and leans forward. Half of him expects to hear some kind of bold, escape plan; the other half is preparing for the -nose slap-.]
[is the third half preparing for a THIRD OPTION, because Akira is a master of those!!]
[and truthfully. . . he wouldn't dare be so bold if he didn't think that this was all just a very elaborate dream (although that belief in dream: currently wavering). but he deeply does not want to slap Yusuke in the nose, and the talk of "punishments" has him a bit concerned. so. . . he does, in his mind, the next best thing!!]
[he invokes the trap card PLAY ON WORDS]
[with hands pressed against the sides of Yusuke's face, and a very quickly muttered apology-- sorry, I'm so sorry-- he leans in to "slap" the lightest kiss known to mankind on the tip of Fox's nose. he's gone from Yusuke's personal space in an instant, back across the table with hands resting against the dice, looking rather pleased with himself]
[. . . the casino staff is less than impressed. sir, that is not--]
What? I slapped a kiss on his nose. That counts.
[no, it's not--]
Hn. Sooooounds like someone doesn't know how to think outside the box.
[ah. he's one of those]
he should write a guide on how to confuse everyone in less than 6 seconds
[Okay so dreaming- yeah, it may be a plausible theory right now. Yusuke doesn't register the staff sputtering in confusion and murmuring between each other how 'that's not the right dare' and 'the other sides of dice can give you that' and so on and so forth. He's too preoccupied staring at Akira because that was lightning fast and he's not even sure if it happened.
...it had to have happened otherwise the staff wouldn't make a ruckus, right?
He opens his mouth to say something, but closes it, then repeats that a few times as he, too, is trying to decipher how "slap" is a "kiss" in any context of this dare. Maaaaybe if he stretched it out and went waxing poetic at it, but even that is a bit...
All in all, Yusuke's sitting there, still slightly leaned forward, with now growing flush on his face, wondering how such an innocuous thing could get this reaction out of him.]
It sure is creative thinking...
[There's thinking out of the box, and there's taking a running start, jumping on the trampoline, and leaping out.
The staff is still debating whether it's right or wrong, but Yusuke's lips finally twitch into a small, shy smile. And he extends his hand, ignoring the bickering-] I believe it's my turn now.
if he did then he'd be giving away trade secrets!!
[yeeeeah, it honestly is a huge stretch, even for a silly play on words. . . considering "kiss" is an action specified on another side of dice. but it's the way Akira has chosen to play, and he is-- if anything-- extremely stubborn in his own decisions. . . for better or worse! and if it got him out of having to do something harmful to one of his most precious people, then he doesn't care if it counts or not]
[he leans back in his chair, folding his arms across his torso as he, too, tunes out the bickering of the staff. he feels his heart flutter pleasantly when Yusuke reaches for the dice, and the smile returns. . . a bit more muted in the wake of a few things he has heard, but still no less genuine]
[. . .]
[right. . . questions. he needs to ask a few before Fox takes a spin at the dice]
[Yusuke picks up the dice, but pauses at the question, and gives Akira a long stare. He... must be joking, right? He doesn't actually believe this is some kind of mind palace they accidentally infiltrated or a weird pocket of Mementos they stumbled upon, right?
It is a casino, people are openly going "to town" with it and Akira doesn't get how none of this is okay? ...did he miss something when they were back home, is this what Akira does on a daily basis?! No, that's ridiculous.]
You... have seen this place?
[Seen, understood- Yusuke didn't expect to be the one to explain this to him. He takes the dice and places them on the table, turning them on purpose (not tossing them!) until they are showing the most obscene thing one can get from tossing them.
Then he turns and shifts closer a little so he can keep his voice just for Akira to hear.]
This- isn't a Palace, Joker. There are... intense repercussions for ditching the games or for not attending these events.
[Akira blinks a few times, before his gaze flickers down towards the dice and the offered task. he isn't surprised to see it, of course-- he had looked at the sides of the dice before picking up the game, which is why he knew it was 80% boldness. but for some reason, it still brings a dark flush to his features, one that stretches from his cheeks to the tips of his ears]
[a light cough, and he lifts a hand to the corner of his mouth, voice low as he mutters in return--]
. . . honestly? I thought this was a dream and my subconscious was telling me to be less uptight.
[THANKS BRAIN FOR INFORMING HIM THAT HE IS IN A LENGTHY DRY SPELL OF, COLLOQUIALLY, "NOT GETTING ANY"]
[but more seriously than that. . . his features darken, jaw set]
But "punishing" people for not participating when they don't want to is-- [not at all something he would find enjoyable, especially when. . .] Do I have to beat someone up for you in a back alley, Yusuke? You know that I would.
[Yusuke immediately messes up the dice, not wanting to give the staff the impression that he tossed them or anything; Akira doesn't deserve to be put in such a position right off the bat. But... he can't help but admire the flush that covers his cheeks, and it's hard not to flush in response as well, since, well... implications.
He sighs, pushing hair out of his face, and pretends to signal for some drinks from the guy that's passing by with glasses of... whatever. It's not like they are going to drink it, it's a distraction and delay, and giving him the opportunity to completely turn his back to onlookers so he can talk with Akira.]
Trust me, I wish it was for myself. I've been here for... a while. [Very long while. In ten days he'll even turn 18.
But thoughts drift from that and Yusuke shakes his head,] It's not a person specifically. None that I know of anyway. So beating up is off the table. As for the punishment, [he removes the glove from his left hand and shows Akira the suit of diamonds that is slowly becoming distorted and breaking into smaller diamonds, covering his palm,] there is some kind of curse placed upon the "guests" if we don't, well.
[He motions at a couple several tables down that are making out on top of the table now and from the looks of it, might take it even further.] This thing triggers personality traits that you'd never act upon.
[and just like that, Akira's entire body goes stiff, his breath hitching in his throat. he finds himself staring at the distorted design, gaze tracing the sharp edges of those diamonds, something starting to boil hot and angry in the pit of his stomach. a curse, Yusuke says. he doesn't know the details, but the strength of that word, coupled with the vague description he has been given, is enough for his imagination to run wild]
[a curse, is it? some kind of stupid physical branding that's meant to. . . what? put people in their place? remind them that they are at the mercy of the hotel's whims? perhaps there is no single person behind this that Akira can blame. but if there is a curse. . . if there is a prison, no matter how bright and opulent and entertaining it is on the outside. . .]
[then there is always a warden, isn't there?]
[a sharp exhale, and Akira grits his teeth, words strained]
. . . how dare they.
[how dare they-- whoever they are-- think they can lay claim to something that doesn't belong to them. Yusuke is his own person, full of vibrant life and a gaze that can see beauty in all things, both good and bad. and he doesn't belong to some. . . weird sexy hotel deity (???? deity unconfirmed, that's just where Akira's brain goes to first). that's Akira's thief]
[that's Joker's Fox]
[. . . finally, with his anger simmering cold instead of bursting to life in a grand display of emotion, Akira reaches out to take Fox's hand in his own. his fingers trace the same lines his eyes had earlier, touch light as a feather]
. . . I'll rip out the hearts of whoever did this to you.
[rip them out and tear them to pieces, bit by bit. wouldn't that be satisfying?]
how the turns have tabled, why am I getting feels?
[Was it for better or for worse that Akira doesn't know the extent of how this place changed Yusuke? Even his paintings look different, and they are probably the only thing keeping him sane around here. He didn't know how else to explain the mark they all have, it is a form of curse, in different forms, affecting people differently. And it certainly is a reminder that if he even thinks of 'slacking off', the mark will be there to "help" him find someone, in the worst, possible way.
And while he knew it would upset Akira, he didn't think he'd get angry like this. It's almost radiating off of him, enough that people are now deciding to avoid the table they are occupying.]
It's... not fine, I cannot lie. [It's pointless even. Why would he ever want to lie to Joker?] But I-
[His voice trails off when Akira takes his hand and traces the mark on his hand, eyes widening for a moment. He could feel his throat close up listening to the threats that Yusuke knows Akira would go through if he only had a target, if Yusuke just pointed at the person responsible.
When he finally swallows the lump in his throat and ignores the sting in his eyes, his fingers curl around Akira's, and he can't help himself but exhale shakily, wondering how he managed to get emotional so quickly. It seems that human decency and caring had slowly phased out of this place.]
I hope you take me with you that day.
[Because if Akira's here, it would mean he'd have to go through everything Yusuke already went through, and that cannot go unanswered, and Yusuke wants to- needs to be there.]
[yeah. . . Akira only knows that Yusuke looks a bit older and more guarded than he was in the single day that has passed since they were last together. the rest? that'll come with time]
[but for now. . . despite the way Yusuke squeezes his hand, the shaky exhale, the slight glint of moisture in the corners of his eyes-- I hope you take me with you that day is exactly the reply that Akira had hoped to hear]
[he moves his fingers so they're linked with Yusuke's, palms pressed together-- one marked with diamonds, and one completely bared--his own grip protectively tight. as if just holding hands like this could protect Yusuke from everything he has experienced thus far]
. . . I'd do you one better.
[his voice is quiet, but his words are still taut with what seethes so readily in his heart. it's a damn good thing he had learned how to temper his anger already. society does that to a guy]
[Yusuke's hand squeezes back instantly as if it was craving more than just random encounters with people in this place. Something, someone familiar.
With this kind of reassurance and support, Yusuke feels like ditching this distasteful game would be a child's play and that he wouldn't give a damn about the consequences. Besides, this conversation has taken out of any sort of playfulness he felt a moment earlier, and Akira looks angrier, feels angrier than Yusuke had ever witnessed him before.]
We should leave, [much to the displeasure of onlookers. Yusuke's chip amount in his account might drain as a result, or he'll get some suit effects in a few hours, but it will be worth it.
If he can keep Akira away from these effects, even for just a while, then he'll do it without blinking.]
[yeah. they should. not that Akira would mind sticking around-- as far as the games at this party go, this one is tame ("tame") enough, and if sticking it out for four rounds means nobody gets punished then all the better. but after that heartfelt exchange and the firmness of Yusuke's decision, there's no point in it anymore. besides. . . he is glad to see a bit more of that Phantom Thief defiance return to Fox's gaze]
All right.
[and just like that, Akira stands, never once releasing that hand. truthfully, he had another point he wanted to make while they were seated at this table, but. . . it's not one he needs the dice to convey, anyway]
[the patrons around them are grumbling their dissent, but not moving to stop them. they are free to do as they please!]
[It's been a while since he felt the urge to be defiant in this place; after a while, if you don't have anyone close from home, your previous self from home... changes into something else.
He happily leads the way out of the gambling room and into the much bigger one of the casino where many, many more people are mingling, drinking, floating around, crashing into things. His hold on Akira's hand tightens so he doesn't lose him in the crowd as he pushes past attendees and staff.
If he could get back to his room on the upper floor-- he's done with this event-
Before he can step out, there's a short "intervention" of two Hotel staff, trying to guide them both back to the party. He glances at Akira, hoping he'll catch on to play along when he says-]
We are busy.
[-trying to make it seem as if there's more going on than there actually is. That should make them let up, right?]
[. . . ah. so that's how it is. a bit sinister, honestly. . .]
[Akira doesn't even need the cue. the moment the hotel staff move to intercept them, he loops his arm around Yusuke's and immediately leans heavily into the other thief's side, crowding his personal space in an excellent rendition of someone who has had far too much to drink. all those nights talking to the drunk patrons at Lala-chan's bar sure have come in handy. Ann would be proud of these acting skills!! . . . probably!!]
Sorry, sorry ~ [his tone is light and airy] We're the type of people who like a little bit of. . . privacy.
[It is sinister, and deceitful and very, very rude. But honestly, Hotels' got it coming. He'd feel bad for the staff if they weren't actively enforcing the whims of the Hotel.
The two staff members, give them a look over, and mutter to each other for a second, then one leaves while the other motions for them to wait. For a split second, Yusuke thought they were about to get into trouble (not that getting out of Hotel's "prison" is a challenge, but he'd rather not waste time), when the other guy returned with some pink bag and handed it to them. Only then do they move away and let them leave the casino.
Stepping into Hotel's lobby feels like stepping into green, spring fields after all of that. Yusuke exhales the breath he was holding while they were waiting, and gives the bag a suspicious look (it's probably some weird sex toy...)]
The hard part's done. [How weird will it be to offer to go straight to his room??]
How much have you seen of this place? I've heard that newcomers woke up in cars this time.
[. . . yeah, Akira is also giving the bag a suspicious look. no more trust!! and it is only after they are out of sight of the hotel enforcers that he stands up straight again, giving Yusuke a bit more room to breathe]
Mm. I got to know the carport pretty well.
[it was a nice time, actually!! he failed at hotwiring a car, which is a disappointment that he will carry with him until he can redeem himself. but he hung out with a half-naked stranger and talked about being spirited away to other worlds and made a new pal, and that is all that matters!!]
[Yusuke didn't mind Akira clinging onto him at all. He'd take him like that all the way through the hotel without a complaint.
As they make their way through the lobby, the bag will be "discreetly" set aside on one of the smaller tables in the lounge areas. Maybe someone will find it interesting.]
I suppose it is better than waking in the bathrooms. It happened once.
[Once out of the view of Casino attendees, Yusuke slows his pace a little and leads the way to the elevators.]
We can go to my room if you want to change out of that. Or I can show you the stores. There are also something like botanical gardens on top floors, [the close they have to the outdoors,] and gym and spa centers on the lower floor.
[tagging along like a li'l duckling, of course. paying proper attention to their surroundings as they move. gosh, this place reeks of financial waste and irresponsible spending. down with the bourgeoise—]
Change? My suit? I don't exactly mind it.
[there is some dried cake frosting on one shoulder though, so. . . he could probably do with a change into something more comfortable]
But I wouldn't mind getting out of it, either. So it's that, or the botanical gardens.
[which sound really nice!! it might be a good place to vibe in relative peace, quiet, and privacy. but while Akira has offered his opinions, he tilts his head at Yusuke and asks]
What do you want to do?
[because right now. . . he'd much rather focus on Yusuke's desires than his own]
[He should've seen Yusuke when he woke up in this place. He thought he was back at Madarame's palace, stuck in some ostentatious room of his. The urge to lash out was intense- the only thing stopping him is that he doesn't have his powers.]
I have more comfortable clothes than these. [They'll probably be big on Akira, but it's better than a stuffy suit if they are to lounge around and talk.
He discreetly glances at his palm, but there's no change on it, and he relaxes a bit more.]
The gardens are wonderful at any time of day. Quiet. I don't mind going there.
[The elevator dings open and, to Yusuke's horror, the painting is back and instantly starts throwing obscenities and dirty talk at them.]
We'll take the next one, [he mutters and reaches to close the door, making the painting hanging in the elevator screech in "pain" and "how could they leave her and deprive her of a hot makeout session".
The elevator next to the previous one arrives and Yusuke nods at it,] This one should do.
[for a moment, Alisa just stares at the elevator, perfectly stunned as he tries to comprehend what the heck just happened?? painting?? talking painting?? THIRSTY talking painting??]
[but by the time the next elevator arrives. . . he slaps a hand across his mouth and doubles over, shoulders shaking in. . . laughter]
[SORRY SOME THINGS ARE JUST SO RIDICULOUS HE CAN'T HELP HIMSELF]
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peacockstop2025-01-15 09:00 pm
😂😂
Yusuke's way too invested in the dice and "fate" they'll bring down upon them and his brows scrunch in confusion when he sees 'slap nose'. That's so... ordinary? Ridiculous even. It's nothing like schemes Hotel tend to make.
Before he manages to comment about it, he catches Akira's gaze and brings up a hand-]
...If you give me a nosebleed, I will punch you back. [One of the wait staff mutters something that 'it's not how the game works', but Yusuke ignores him. He plays his own game WITHININ the given game.]
LAUGHING IN RNG
[like. . .]
[. . . the dice. . .]
[Akira stares at them with eyes squinted like a man who just had his coffee stolen. then Yusuke lifts a hand, and Akira immediately lifts two, palms facing forward, a small flush blossoming to life on his own cheeks]
I-- I wouldn't--
[he could never!! he already knows that this "slap" isn't going to be much of a slap at all]
. . . and if I did, I'd totally deserve it--
rest in pepperonis
That roll remains the way it is.
And now they are both staring at it with their hands raised. Yusuke sighs, wondering how and why he even considered that Akira would want to hurt him!? Outrageous.]
I- I know. Forgive me- I didn't mean to doubt you. [This place has made him paranoid, in a way.]
You do need to go through with it, however- Hotel likes to, [he pauses, looking for words,] "punish" people who leave the games after they start them.
no subject
[at any rate, Akira lowers his hands his hands back to the table; the playful impishness that had danced across his expression just moments earlier has faded away, replaced by a frown with concern etched around the corners]
[. . .]
Hn. Well, I have an idea. [always one to play by his own rules, Akira leans forward, gesturing for Fox to do the same. he has a few questions to ask after this, but first things are first. . .!] C'mere for a second?
no subject
And he'll admit, he's a bit sad that the playfulness had disappeared from Akira's face, but he cannot blame him, especially after what Yusuke said.]
Hmm? [They shouldn't dally too much with the execution of the dares, but he goes along with it and leans forward. Half of him expects to hear some kind of bold, escape plan; the other half is preparing for the -nose slap-.]
no subject
[and truthfully. . . he wouldn't dare be so bold if he didn't think that this was all just a very elaborate dream (although that belief in dream: currently wavering). but he deeply does not want to slap Yusuke in the nose, and the talk of "punishments" has him a bit concerned. so. . . he does, in his mind, the next best thing!!]
[he invokes the trap card PLAY ON WORDS]
[with hands pressed against the sides of Yusuke's face, and a very quickly muttered apology-- sorry, I'm so sorry-- he leans in to "slap" the lightest kiss known to mankind on the tip of Fox's nose. he's gone from Yusuke's personal space in an instant, back across the table with hands resting against the dice, looking rather pleased with himself]
[. . . the casino staff is less than impressed. sir, that is not--]
What? I slapped a kiss on his nose. That counts.
[no, it's not--]
Hn. Sooooounds like someone doesn't know how to think outside the box.
[ah. he's one of those]
he should write a guide on how to confuse everyone in less than 6 seconds
...it had to have happened otherwise the staff wouldn't make a ruckus, right?
He opens his mouth to say something, but closes it, then repeats that a few times as he, too, is trying to decipher how "slap" is a "kiss" in any context of this dare. Maaaaybe if he stretched it out and went waxing poetic at it, but even that is a bit...
All in all, Yusuke's sitting there, still slightly leaned forward, with now growing flush on his face, wondering how such an innocuous thing could get this reaction out of him.]
It sure is creative thinking...
[There's thinking out of the box, and there's taking a running start, jumping on the trampoline, and leaping out.
The staff is still debating whether it's right or wrong, but Yusuke's lips finally twitch into a small, shy smile. And he extends his hand, ignoring the bickering-] I believe it's my turn now.
if he did then he'd be giving away trade secrets!!
[he leans back in his chair, folding his arms across his torso as he, too, tunes out the bickering of the staff. he feels his heart flutter pleasantly when Yusuke reaches for the dice, and the smile returns. . . a bit more muted in the wake of a few things he has heard, but still no less genuine]
[. . .]
[right. . . questions. he needs to ask a few before Fox takes a spin at the dice]
Hey, Yusuke. . . [a contemplative pause] . . . is everything okay?
no subject
It is a casino, people are openly going "to town" with it and Akira doesn't get how none of this is okay? ...did he miss something when they were back home, is this what Akira does on a daily basis?! No, that's ridiculous.]
You... have seen this place?
[Seen, understood- Yusuke didn't expect to be the one to explain this to him. He takes the dice and places them on the table, turning them on purpose (not tossing them!) until they are showing the most obscene thing one can get from tossing them.
Then he turns and shifts closer a little so he can keep his voice just for Akira to hear.]
This- isn't a Palace, Joker. There are... intense repercussions for ditching the games or for not attending these events.
no subject
[Akira blinks a few times, before his gaze flickers down towards the dice and the offered task. he isn't surprised to see it, of course-- he had looked at the sides of the dice before picking up the game, which is why he knew it was 80% boldness. but for some reason, it still brings a dark flush to his features, one that stretches from his cheeks to the tips of his ears]
[a light cough, and he lifts a hand to the corner of his mouth, voice low as he mutters in return--]
. . . honestly? I thought this was a dream and my subconscious was telling me to be less uptight.
[THANKS BRAIN FOR INFORMING HIM THAT HE IS IN A LENGTHY DRY SPELL OF, COLLOQUIALLY, "NOT GETTING ANY"]
[but more seriously than that. . . his features darken, jaw set]
But "punishing" people for not participating when they don't want to is-- [not at all something he would find enjoyable, especially when. . .] Do I have to beat someone up for you in a back alley, Yusuke? You know that I would.
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He sighs, pushing hair out of his face, and pretends to signal for some drinks from the guy that's passing by with glasses of... whatever. It's not like they are going to drink it, it's a distraction and delay, and giving him the opportunity to completely turn his back to onlookers so he can talk with Akira.]
Trust me, I wish it was for myself. I've been here for... a while. [Very long while. In ten days he'll even turn 18.
But thoughts drift from that and Yusuke shakes his head,] It's not a person specifically. None that I know of anyway. So beating up is off the table. As for the punishment, [he removes the glove from his left hand and shows Akira the suit of diamonds that is slowly becoming distorted and breaking into smaller diamonds, covering his palm,] there is some kind of curse placed upon the "guests" if we don't, well.
[He motions at a couple several tables down that are making out on top of the table now and from the looks of it, might take it even further.] This thing triggers personality traits that you'd never act upon.
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[and just like that, Akira's entire body goes stiff, his breath hitching in his throat. he finds himself staring at the distorted design, gaze tracing the sharp edges of those diamonds, something starting to boil hot and angry in the pit of his stomach. a curse, Yusuke says. he doesn't know the details, but the strength of that word, coupled with the vague description he has been given, is enough for his imagination to run wild]
[a curse, is it? some kind of stupid physical branding that's meant to. . . what? put people in their place? remind them that they are at the mercy of the hotel's whims? perhaps there is no single person behind this that Akira can blame. but if there is a curse. . . if there is a prison, no matter how bright and opulent and entertaining it is on the outside. . .]
[then there is always a warden, isn't there?]
[a sharp exhale, and Akira grits his teeth, words strained]
. . . how dare they.
[how dare they-- whoever they are-- think they can lay claim to something that doesn't belong to them. Yusuke is his own person, full of vibrant life and a gaze that can see beauty in all things, both good and bad. and he doesn't belong to some. . . weird sexy hotel deity (???? deity unconfirmed, that's just where Akira's brain goes to first). that's Akira's thief]
[that's Joker's Fox]
[. . . finally, with his anger simmering cold instead of bursting to life in a grand display of emotion, Akira reaches out to take Fox's hand in his own. his fingers trace the same lines his eyes had earlier, touch light as a feather]
. . . I'll rip out the hearts of whoever did this to you.
[rip them out and tear them to pieces, bit by bit. wouldn't that be satisfying?]
how the turns have tabled, why am I getting feels?
And while he knew it would upset Akira, he didn't think he'd get angry like this. It's almost radiating off of him, enough that people are now deciding to avoid the table they are occupying.]
It's... not fine, I cannot lie. [It's pointless even. Why would he ever want to lie to Joker?] But I-
[His voice trails off when Akira takes his hand and traces the mark on his hand, eyes widening for a moment. He could feel his throat close up listening to the threats that Yusuke knows Akira would go through if he only had a target, if Yusuke just pointed at the person responsible.
When he finally swallows the lump in his throat and ignores the sting in his eyes, his fingers curl around Akira's, and he can't help himself but exhale shakily, wondering how he managed to get emotional so quickly. It seems that human decency and caring had slowly phased out of this place.]
I hope you take me with you that day.
[Because if Akira's here, it would mean he'd have to go through everything Yusuke already went through, and that cannot go unanswered, and Yusuke wants to- needs to be there.]
I KNOW BUT IT'S SO GOOD!!1
[but for now. . . despite the way Yusuke squeezes his hand, the shaky exhale, the slight glint of moisture in the corners of his eyes-- I hope you take me with you that day is exactly the reply that Akira had hoped to hear]
[he moves his fingers so they're linked with Yusuke's, palms pressed together-- one marked with diamonds, and one completely bared--his own grip protectively tight. as if just holding hands like this could protect Yusuke from everything he has experienced thus far]
. . . I'd do you one better.
[his voice is quiet, but his words are still taut with what seethes so readily in his heart. it's a damn good thing he had learned how to temper his anger already. society does that to a guy]
I'll make sure you get first strike.
😭
[Yusuke's hand squeezes back instantly as if it was craving more than just random encounters with people in this place. Something, someone familiar.
With this kind of reassurance and support, Yusuke feels like ditching this distasteful game would be a child's play and that he wouldn't give a damn about the consequences. Besides, this conversation has taken out of any sort of playfulness he felt a moment earlier, and Akira looks angrier, feels angrier than Yusuke had ever witnessed him before.]
We should leave, [much to the displeasure of onlookers. Yusuke's chip amount in his account might drain as a result, or he'll get some suit effects in a few hours, but it will be worth it.
If he can keep Akira away from these effects, even for just a while, then he'll do it without blinking.]
his fox u_u
All right.
[and just like that, Akira stands, never once releasing that hand. truthfully, he had another point he wanted to make while they were seated at this table, but. . . it's not one he needs the dice to convey, anyway]
[the patrons around them are grumbling their dissent, but not moving to stop them. they are free to do as they please!]
Lead the way, Fox.
[he's new, so give him a nice li'l tour!!]
💕
He happily leads the way out of the gambling room and into the much bigger one of the casino where many, many more people are mingling, drinking, floating around, crashing into things. His hold on Akira's hand tightens so he doesn't lose him in the crowd as he pushes past attendees and staff.
If he could get back to his room on the upper floor-- he's done with this event-
Before he can step out, there's a short "intervention" of two Hotel staff, trying to guide them both back to the party. He glances at Akira, hoping he'll catch on to play along when he says-]
We are busy.
[-trying to make it seem as if there's more going on than there actually is. That should make them let up, right?]
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[Akira doesn't even need the cue. the moment the hotel staff move to intercept them, he loops his arm around Yusuke's and immediately leans heavily into the other thief's side, crowding his personal space in an excellent rendition of someone who has had far too much to drink. all those nights talking to the drunk patrons at Lala-chan's bar sure have come in handy. Ann would be proud of these acting skills!! . . . probably!!]
Sorry, sorry ~ [his tone is light and airy] We're the type of people who like a little bit of. . . privacy.
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The two staff members, give them a look over, and mutter to each other for a second, then one leaves while the other motions for them to wait. For a split second, Yusuke thought they were about to get into trouble (not that getting out of Hotel's "prison" is a challenge, but he'd rather not waste time), when the other guy returned with some pink bag and handed it to them. Only then do they move away and let them leave the casino.
Stepping into Hotel's lobby feels like stepping into green, spring fields after all of that. Yusuke exhales the breath he was holding while they were waiting, and gives the bag a suspicious look (it's probably some weird sex toy...)]
The hard part's done. [How weird will it be to offer to go straight to his room??]
How much have you seen of this place? I've heard that newcomers woke up in cars this time.
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Mm. I got to know the carport pretty well.
[it was a nice time, actually!! he failed at hotwiring a car, which is a disappointment that he will carry with him until he can redeem himself. but he hung out with a half-naked stranger and talked about being spirited away to other worlds and made a new pal, and that is all that matters!!]
But other than that? Not much at all.
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As they make their way through the lobby, the bag will be "discreetly" set aside on one of the smaller tables in the lounge areas. Maybe someone will find it interesting.]
I suppose it is better than waking in the bathrooms. It happened once.
[Once out of the view of Casino attendees, Yusuke slows his pace a little and leads the way to the elevators.]
We can go to my room if you want to change out of that. Or I can show you the stores. There are also something like botanical gardens on top floors, [the close they have to the outdoors,] and gym and spa centers on the lower floor.
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Change? My suit? I don't exactly mind it.
[there is some dried cake frosting on one shoulder though, so. . . he could probably do with a change into something more comfortable]
But I wouldn't mind getting out of it, either. So it's that, or the botanical gardens.
[which sound really nice!! it might be a good place to vibe in relative peace, quiet, and privacy. but while Akira has offered his opinions, he tilts his head at Yusuke and asks]
What do you want to do?
[because right now. . . he'd much rather focus on Yusuke's desires than his own]
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I have more comfortable clothes than these. [They'll probably be big on Akira, but it's better than a stuffy suit if they are to lounge around and talk.
He discreetly glances at his palm, but there's no change on it, and he relaxes a bit more.]
The gardens are wonderful at any time of day. Quiet. I don't mind going there.
[The elevator dings open and, to Yusuke's horror, the painting is back and instantly starts throwing obscenities and dirty talk at them.]
We'll take the next one, [he mutters and reaches to close the door, making the painting hanging in the elevator screech in "pain" and "how could they leave her and deprive her of a hot makeout session".
The elevator next to the previous one arrives and Yusuke nods at it,] This one should do.
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[OH MY GOD]
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[but by the time the next elevator arrives. . . he slaps a hand across his mouth and doubles over, shoulders shaking in. . . laughter]
[SORRY SOME THINGS ARE JUST SO RIDICULOUS HE CAN'T HELP HIMSELF]
[between chortles, he manages to wheeze]
What the fuck.
Hi, Alisa :D
i'm crying is alisa the painting
nope, that's your Akira in your previous tag XDD gave me a good chuckle
....... MY AUTOCORRECT TYPOS!!! guess he's Alisa now--
we love Alisa
wheezes! 1/2
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sorry for word vomit
1/2 noooo i LOVE IT, also gives a long wordy tag. . . two tags. . .
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I'm so excited to see you reserved 8D!!!
waaah I AM GLAD I was enticed by great TDM threads
/MUCH VIBRATING/ we only need golden boy Ryuji now! also time shenanigans GO!
oh my god akira is gonna die
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Akira having existential crisis
it's only the tdm and the whiplash of feelings he has had is astounding
I can't wait to see what suit Akira gets 8D Yusuke is... >:3 the sexy one (because I'm evil)
LMFJSJ I am eyeing spades cuz I think that'd be the most fun for me, but we shall see!
omg I have girl here that's spades, it's awesome 8D!
it fits him well!! since he is so stubborn about staying true to himself c:
listen, I needed a good excuse to have him act sexy and *very* dominant >.>;
LEGIT, that's what the suits are for, from my understanding!!
all I wanna say is rip Akira (he missed Yusuke's nine-tailed fox edition)
the 10% furry in him laments
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