[He's aware of the quiet. There are only two or three people, Esikko included, the hero's spoken to regarding his thoughts on the ranking and his current plan on it. If such a thing was common knowledge, people would have discussed it long before now. Bakugo worked out his gamble on his own, inquiring about the Ace's rank versus number depending on game, and noting its behavior during events in the resort, specifically with the ranks inverted.
He's even speculated, if this is the right path, the House would issue some sort of gag order to prevent it from getting out. Something he's begrudgingly respected by only bringing this up with people he trusts implicitly. And even that's usually vague and quick. So when Esikko respond with his own meandering comment, Bakugo accepts it with a grunt and little else.]
Tch. Who I wanna tell anything's my fucking business.
[Considering he told Esikko... the prince can take that as he wants. Bakugo's already done so. Not as keen to spread the knowledge, considering the hypothetical gag and the House's petty nature. He worked it out by himself, with his own research and questions! Other people can do the same. Hmph. Besides, anyone rank 5 or higher really has no need to know.]
You ever find me bleeding out on the floor, handle it and we're even.
[Patching someone up isn't equal trade to suddenly gaining a sugar daddy.]
Oh, stop with that. It's not as if it wouldn't benefit me either.
( It's an instant sort of retort, annoyed as it is soft, but Esikko immediately feels ashamed at letting any sort of implication of his own loneliness slip through like that. So he shoves another bite of loaf into his mouth, even if he's finding it difficult to chew, difficult to want to eat anything, and stares down at the soup with tired eyes.
At least trying to rank down will be worth it. If it's a puzzle like the one he got, he expects Bakugo would be the type to be able to handle it. It wasn't complex at all. )
...It's the Divinity, by the way. The cause for this. The curse of a god, you know... My body has been weak since birth, so having this eating away at it only causes that poor health of mine to decline faster. It's this sort of cycle that ends in the Divinity trying to eat away at me completely.
( He's eaten a bit, at least, but he has to put down his silverware now with a quiet sigh. )
I think it wants to use my body like soil, to be reborn. I don't know, since it kills me in the end, anyway. Those potions are my attempts at postponing it while I look for a more permanent solution.
[As someone who recently changed ranks himself, again, Esikko's had his hand in the shifting levels of their stupid social scale. He's also pissed off the House before. Bakugo hasn't forgotten that damn branding the prince sported a while ago. Like hell is he going to get the guy involved more than he needs to be. The prince knows his plan and Bakugo can already tell Esikko's thought about this before. Maybe even knows more, but still kept shit vague.
Enough of that. He reaches across the table and pinches the plate rim to drag it over, out of reach. No more for him. Before his jaw locks up, or worse, his stomach rejects everything. Esikko's eaten enough for Bakugo's satisfaction. The rest can go in the fridge for reheating later.]
Try to finish the soup. You'll need liquid. [Having lost so much blood already. ] Don't guzzle it.
[In case Esikko thought he had to cram that down his throat too. Take his time, sip when he feels less nauseous, rest when he's balancing on the edge of blowing chunks. Gross. Bakugo pushes his chair out and heads for the stove to handle the leftovers.]
Divinity, huh... [Getting a glimpse into Esikko's mysterious affliction. He was curious, but avoided demanding more information unless it was necessary. Though he did snarl at the prince to tell him once he felt better.] Is that the price you had to pay for resetting your life? Or something that took the opportunity to latch on?
[A deal with the devil or some dumb schmuck who got unlucky.]
...It's punishment, for committing the taboo. Eating a god. So it was a price... to be able to use magic more, I guess. At the points I've done this, I don't generally realize I'm resetting my life. It's not a decision I make until the last desperate moment.
( He realizes, with a frown, that it's hard to explain how the timelines all blend together in his mind. How the first time and this current time feel so wildly different and yet the same, how his emotions always seem stuck on this same track, how no matter how wildly he flails he can never seem to get himself off of it.
He pokes at the soup with his spoon a few times, clearly trying to find the will to take another sip. But first: ) If you'd like another opinion, you could ask that ex-bodyguard of mine. Kirma.
( The same one he'd complained to Bakugo about plenty of times, who'd kidnapped him. But also the same he killed some time back, who was apparently alive again and ignoring him. He does another particularly annoyed stab at his soup before lifting the spoon to his mouth this time, taking a slow sip. )
He's always so opinionated on my business, but maybe he's right.
Hah! You thought you could commit divine cannibalism and get away without blowback?
[Esikko's reveal sounds completely ridiculous, even though Bakugo's at least come to accept the other man's not lying. Gods and magic don't exist in his world beyond traditional Japanese beliefs that many people have mostly left behind outside of ceremonies, holidays, and other, well, traditions. But he's not here to judge Esikko's world. Albeit snarking at the other man for making some shit choices in his opinion.]
And the god you ate? Doesn't sound like it gets a do over in life.
[Is this pity? Hell no! But bluntly pointing out, if it's true, Esikko murdered someone else all for the sake of trying to give himself a better life, screw what it cost the person he slaughtered. Bakugo isn't gonna blame the god for giving Esikko the worst case of indigestion/food poisoning known to man in revenge.]
Tch, the guy you've said nothing but shit about? Pass.
[At this point in time, the hero's liable to punch the dog out rather than listen to anything he has to say. He doesn't really know about the "killed him" part yet. Or he's been told Esikko did it in self defense. He finishes packing up the soup in a container and slots it in the fridge.]
A bodyguard should know what he's getting himself into, Prince Prick.
( For a moment, Esikko is quiet, and it's not clear from his tense expression if he's upset or lost in his own thoughts. Maybe some combination of both? But he doesn't snap, or sigh, or anything like he normally might— he just has another slow sip of soup before he speaks, and keeps his eyes on the bowl even as he does. )
That god was a flower. Gods in our world are concepts more than anything else. This was lone flower blooming on a mountain top.
( It's the same language he always speaks, with Peacock's translation picking it up as always, but there's something foreign sounding in the name beyond even that.
He feels himself getting sick again, so he lays his spoon down, staring into the reflections of the broth. )
I hate him, but there's also a reason I've stuck by him until now. But... maybe part of me just wishes he'd run into someone who could see past his innocent demeanor to the twisted ego he really has.
( Now, he sighs, rubbing at his temples like that might help. )
[Bakugo leaves him to his thoughts as he searches the kitchen for some containers for the roast. Esikko might not cook or eat in a lot, but the suite's well stocked with supplies for it. He sets a glass container on the stove, then begins slicing through the roast as an angle to make it easier to shingle within its new home.]
Doesn't answer the question.
[Translation or weird tone or not, the words don't do anything to address what Bakugo was getting at. Taken at face value, it makes the entire ordeal sound worse, picking on a lone creature struggling to survive, or consuming something that alone had managed to surpass all odds and live in a place it shouldn't have been able to.
Bakugo notes the way Esikko puts his spoon down and comes by to take the bowl and the spoon away before the man can force himself to try another sip. That's enough for now. No point in making hi puke.]
You told me you haven't been around him for fucking months, Prince Prick.
[During the painting copy fiasco, even earlier than that, Esikko made it sound like he wasn't dealing with the dog anymore. Was that a lie?]
The gods are reborn in each life, too. The whole world is. But they remember, unlike the rest.
( He sighs, but allows his hands to drop away from his own face. Instead, he watches Bakugo gather things up with a twitch of a small frown. It bothers him, to sit here, to barely be able to hold down food, to have been saved and fed and not even be able to make it up in any significant way.
But he knows getting up would only make it worse, so he curls his fingers into his palms and stays out. )
I have been trying to deal with him less, yes. We no longer live together, but he finds me in my room, in the hallways, while I'm out. He's an annoying dog.
It's not just your life you're resetting, but your entire world's existence.
[Though technically, someone's "life" basically includes their entire world, so yeah. That's logical. Still sounds like a ridiculous piece of magic for one person to randomly stumble across.
Bakugo finishes up the leftovers, roast slices layers nicely in the container, and caps the glass with its silicone lid. Into the fridge with the soup. The remains in Esikko's bowl... down the sink. Normally he'd bitch at someone for wasting food, but there's barely five spoonfuls left. The guy did well enough with what he had.
As for Esikko's guilt... that's his burden. Bakugo's not nice enough to comfort someone for shooting himself in the foot. At least the prince isn't pitching a fit.]
Hmph. [Maybe he heard wrong, but Bakugo was under the impression Esikko had no further dealings with someone who abused him. But this isn't his business.] With your rank now, you can order the staff to take him away, or get a fucking restraining order.
[With the ability to wield the glories of the Hotel to his liking, any interaction Esikko has with someone he doesn't want to have interactions with, is on him.
As for being in the guy's suite... well that's just gross.]
It's like shifting time, or... visiting another timeline, where things were different. I don't interrupt anyone's life, in reality. It's difficult to explain.
( Because time is weird, timelines are weird, universes... It's a little like being in the Peacock, actually.
But he considers the other words. True, he has his rank now, and that seems to be ahead of even the TRANSGRESSOR mark that's still so permanently etched into his neck. Most staff will still listen to him, despite that, though he'll get sideeyes and questions on occasion... But.
But is it that simple? Are any toxic relationships simple? )
...I'm aware of that, at least. I suppose it makes sense that you wouldn't want to hear my complaints, if I'm the one allowing any possibility for these things to happen. ( His hair is starting to dry now, its usual waves, and he runs his fingers through a lock of it quietly. ) But I don't hate everything.
And I suppose it would feel strange, or empty, to completely turn away from someone who has always been there. Who I had focused on when there was nothing else to focus on? ( He doesn't know how to explain it. ) And after all I've done to him, I guess a part of me feels it must just be the repayment that's deserved.
So when you reset, the life, timeline, you were in vanishes, and a new one slots into your future?
[Yeah, it's difficult to explain, but Bakugo's also a superpower nerd, SECRETLY, so this has a morbid interest despite the topic being pretty wrong in many ways.
Most things fall apart when you start talking about time travel. Rules have to be established and held rigidly or everything starts to break up with a flurry of "what if's" and "why didn't you's" all over.
Kind of odd an Ace rank would still have that mark on his neck, but he guesses the Peacock holds grudges hard. Then again, the Ace rank is kind of screwy compared to all the others. Bit of a wildcard at times.
Toxic relationships are both simple and complex. Simple in that if you're in one, get the fuck out. Complex in that it's not so easy. The latter of which Bakugo simply can't understand because he's never been in one.]
Would you wanna listen to someone whine after you watched them shoot their own foot?
[It's less a dismiss to Esikko and more trying to get him to realize he can control his own decisions.]
Never said you did.
[Even though later Esikko will said everything about him's infuriating. MAKE UP YOUR MIND, MAN!!]
You've done to him? All you've ever said is what he's done to you.
...Not quite. It resets for me, because in order for it to reset, Kirma or I have to die. Or at least, that's how I set it up before. Chaining myself to someone else... made it easier.
But I severed that chain here. It's odd, since I always thought he hated me for setting it up in the first place— but he was sad, when I did.
( Obviously it's not a literal chain he's talking about here. Like an invisible chain between souls, forcing them both to always end up back together somehow. Like, a manmade red string of fate, in a dark, twisted sort of way...?
Esikko looks like he's not pleased with himself for it, at least. )
That painting-me was so angry that I had done that. And it made me wonder, for the first time... if the "me" of any past was really "me."
[Bakugo rests his back against the counter, arms crossed over his chest, the food put away and the dishes soaking in a soapy sink. Every time Esikko expands on his story, it introduces new things or changes what he thought he knew.
Kirma being from Esikko's world is... well... Esikko probably told him that before, but it never clicked until now. He thought it was some crazy bastard from the hotel that ended up being a problem.]
Has anyone told you you're a fucking idiot?
[Dragging someone else in this stupid resetting spell. Cannibalizing a god. Shackling himself to someone who's abusive and yet both of them are apparently codependent on each other. Then breaking it off here after six or seven lifetimes together.]
Sounds like the only thing that stays the same in all your lives is that you ultimately don't like your life.
( At the table, Esikko fidgets with his own hands, cold fingertips pressing into the palm of the opposite, eyes tracing the way his skin takes time to fill the color back in. )
But I think the problem is that I do. Not the details, not what happens, not how it ends, of course— but it would be much easier to die and be free of it all. But I can't think that way.
( He can't be like Aventurine, who came to him begging for death, who used him like a tool to get it. He can't be like Kirma, who gives in and lets death happen again and again. It has him wondering if that's how it should be, for him. )
What bothers me the most is that there's not enough time for me to continue trying. Resetting is the closest thing I can manage.
( Another press of his palm, a squeeze, a distracted dig of his own fingernails to try and distract from how stupid he feels sharing this. )
Here, though, it's different, isn't it? People are brought back in an entirely different way. If I can find a way to manage this curse, maybe I can simply... keep living. For a while. Even if I have to die once or twice first, if I don't forget my precious memories, then it's entirely different, you know?
[He's not asking for clarification. Esikko's the only one who knows if his dislike for his own life is either apparent or truthful. Bakugo's not here to dig into it. He pushes off the counter and tugs open the freezer to grab some ice from the tray. Then shuts the door and soon deposits the cubes into a glass from the cabinet. Water follows.
He lowers the glass after a drink.]
You're the one who trapped yourself in an unending cycle.
[Of course he can't think that way; as far as Bakugo knows, the curse is endless. Hard to know now if Esikko knew the magic he tampered with would result in such a thing or if he was a foolish moron dabbling in shit beyond his understanding.
He frowns at the second part. In one way, it makes sense; in another...]
You're one of the few who have unlimited tries. How the hell is that not enough time?
[Esikko might feel stupid sharing it, but Bakugo's trying to connect all the dots and feeling he isn't succeeding as much as he wants. The prince ends with "you know?" and the blonde gives him a flat look over the glass' rim.]
Nope.
[He does not fucking know at all.]
You haven't died in the Peacock yet. Either from your curse, another guest, or House related shit.
It's not unending, and it's not unlimited. It takes more energy each time, and my health seems to be getting worse with each cycle, so I'm on a time limit, as well, even if I don't know what it is.
( He pushes himself up from the table, finally, a little steadier on his feet than he had been going up to the shower. He still looks too pale, and his eyes look heavier than usual, but all things considered, he's doing much better. )
I haven't died yet, but I nearly did, and I've seen people who have. They don't bring you back as a newborn, they bring you back with something... wrong, in some other way. So I'm just saying... I'd keep my memories, unlike all these other times back home. Some of those are still lost.
( He sighs. )
I know you must not think I should simply die and accept it, or you wouldn't have saved me, so forget all of this for now. Can I just ask... Someone told me about that "speed dial" thing. Can I add you to mine?
So each reset eats into your health and life expectancy?
[That makes sense if it's true. Truncating Esikko's time per life until there's nothing left. Not eternal but rather slowly approaching an ugly finish. An unknown time limit.
Bakugo sets his glass on the counter and leaves it with a firm roll of his shoulder to hips. He approaches Esikko to at least be present for an escort if he needs it. The man seems to have more stability now; that's promising. Still pale, but then again, Esikko's normally pretty damn pale. A good sleep should have him feeling better.]
Aa, you mentioned that last time. [Something he's taken to heart and pisses him off all the more.] Don't do anything that'll get yourself killed here, dammit.
[Even if that means calling someone to dig bloody roots out of his back.]
Che! Don't order me around. [He's not forgetting any of this, dumbass.] Aa, go ahead.
[Not really something Esikko should need to even ask permission for. Just fucking do it. Who cares if they're on full number or *9 on someone's watch?]
( As for not getting himself killed, he is trying. It's why he asks that question about the speed dial at all. Because, maybe it sounds simple, or like something he could have done anyway, and it is... but it's also his way of asking if he can keep calling on Bakugo if there's an emergency.
Because even if he's done it before, more than once, and even if Bakugo has come each time... he feels like a burden for it. Even if he can't ask that directly, it helps a little to hear he's not being told to stop bugging him.
Even if he will try everything he can to not have to. )
Thanks, in any case. I think... I'm going to lie down. But you're welcome to stay, if you feel like using the shower, or anything else.
( "Come back any time" feels redundant to say when he already gave the offer of a spare bedroom, so... He leaves it at that, unless Bakugo seems like he has more to say. )
[A lot of information dumped on him in this entire experience. Bakugo's not going to say he "gets" Esikko's straights, and there are things he doesn't agree with. But right now, so long as the prince isn't dying all over the damn floor, he'll accept it. Heroes spend their lives being called for emergencies. It's what they do.
Some people might question or wonder if a hero feels like they're a burden, needing rescuing, needing help, but how stupid is it to get pissed off at doing the very thing you dedicated your life to do?! ...Says the guy who will immediately yell at the civilian he rescued for being a moron needing rescue in the first place...
Bakugo has PR issues galore.]
I'll make sure you're asleep before I go back. [And yeah, he'll likely take a shower so he's not stalking around the halls looking like a damn zombie film survivor. Gonna have to clean his clothes too.]
Unless you're gonna sleep on the couch, get moving to your room. [He'll follow.]
( So he's going to check on him?? That's cute... and it's reassuring, even if it's just as equally embarrassing. He half wants to snap that he doesn't need him to wait, and half wants to indulge himself in welcoming it— so he goes with the nice middleground and says nothing at all to acknowledge it, just moving to head for the stares with a glance back at him. )
Aren't you supposed to be kind and gentle to someone who's recovering from an injury?
( He's teasing, since he thinks Bakugo's actions have been plenty kind on their own, and the only time people have been nice to him during recovery... Well, there's just Kirma, and he'd realized a little too late that he was just being nice because he was excited seeing him so weak.
Esikko's hand rests on the railing as he moves up the stairs. )
By the way, did you know the House is capable of texting your Watch itself? ( It seems out of nowhere because he specifically waited for some distance between the conversation about ranks to this. ) It sent me a puzzle that was laughably easy...
And anyway, it seems to have a strange level of personality for an entity like itself, considering it couldn't resist the urge to insult me for being a "transgressor". ( At the top of the stairs, the master bedroom isn't far, and he pushes the door open lightly, trailing in. ) I just thought you'd be interested in knowing those little facts.
[If by "check" he means stands guard in the other man's room until he falls asleep, then yes, he'll check on him. Don't snap at him for waiting when you just invited the guy to sleep over in your suite, Esikko. As the man heads for the stairs, Bakugo turns on his heel and checks the front door to make sure it's locked. Satisfied, back to the stairs with him, eyes trained on Esikko as he ascends them. No wobbles or threatening buckles of his knees. Good.]
What do you think I am, some kinda fucking dream nurse? Move your ass.
[Oh he's got lovely bedside manners. His words and his actions are sometimes a pure clash. Bakugo takes the stairs one at a time, not wanting to be Esikko's shadow stuck to his back. The man's already dealing with embarrassment over his weakness. ]
Huh? Not surprised. The damn thing's got a brain. [It created everything in here, including the Watch, so getting a text from the stupid chicken itself... Hell, kind of surprised it hasn't done that regularly. Bakugo arches a brow at the segue into puzzles.]
For what? Some stupid midnight texting? [Wouldn't put it past the damn thing to bother people. He shoves his hands into his pockets as ascends, clicking his tongue at the reminder of Esikko's branding.] Doesn't like people trying to beat it. Like any damn casino.
( There's brief consideration over whether he should send a brief part of the conversation and riddle, but ultimately, he decides that Bakugo's intelligent enough to handle whatever riddle or task comes his way without any further preparation. Not that he's going to say as much out loud, of course. )
It called me so many names, I can only assume I left quite the impression. ( Which he feels cocky about, even as his feet grow tired on their walk to his own bed. He pauses suddenly, stopped right inside the door to the bedroom itself, and turns to face Bakugo. )
...Anyway, it's hard enough to sleep normally, let alone with someone watching, so I'm going to take something for it. ( Handmade! ) It means I won't wake up unless you reaaally want me to, at least for a good few hours, so—
( Here, he rests cold fingertips on Bakugo's shoulder, leaning in to place a tiny peck on his cheek, lingering just long enough to say: ) Thanks again, hero.
( He pulls back just as quickly, spinning to head back towards the bed with a pointed avoidance in looking back again. He looks in his nightstand first, pulling out the small vial that's likely the sleeping aid. )
Or should I call you Mr. Dream Nurse now? You know, if the staff in the palace had been bold enough to tell me to... fuck off, or whatever, it would have at least been a lot more interesting. ( He's just babbling to avoid the small worries he has about the House and Bakugo in particular, because they're foreign enough... But also, in case Bakugo wants to yell at him a little more before he chugs this vial. Or like, ask where the laundry room is. He'll share these things. )
[Bakugo narrows his eyes, suspecting there's something hidden in the way Esikko trails off. Taking the hint, he doesn't prompt further. A secret he can't speak of. Fine. Enough suggestions dropped he's strengthened his resolve. Hallway, doorway, Esikko's room-
Or just outside, once the man stops and Bakugo almost bumps into him.] Oy! Don't stop all of a sudden!
[He backs off, giving the man a space to get out if he has to go elsewhere.]
You pissed it off. [Good to know the Peacock's immature enough to hold grudges and call names. Immaturity means easier exploitation. Funny Esikko talks about having trouble sleeping with someone watching, yet Bakugo's pretty damn sure the guy's fallen asleep with people in his bed. He does not want to ask about that. Private shit.]
Uh-huh. I want you to go to sleep, not wake the fuck back up. [Sheesh. He's like a little kid, dragging his feet when it's time to go to bed. Bakugo glances down at the fingertips poking icy on his shoulder. Then tenses up when the man suddenly kisses him right on the cheek. FOOM! Flushed and snarling, head tilted to the side despite the heat on his face.] Dammit! I'm not some maid!
[But he is a hero. Bakugo rubs at his cheek, grumbling to himself and glancing to the side before returning his attention back to Esikko's retreating back. While he doesn't invade the guy's room immediately, he takes his place in the doorway. Red eyes wander about the space, noting all the elements making this space distinctly Esikko's. Of course flowering plants along the decor, a heavy scent of flora hangs in the air, though that might also be the prince himself.]
Call me that and you'll be eating your stupid pillow. [Hmph. Bakugo crosses his arms over his chest.] You're not supposed to tell your prince to fuck off, idiot.
[That's how royalty works in those settings. As for finding the laundry... eh, he'll manage. Esikko getting to sleep is more important.]
( Esikko smiles to himself as he sits on the edge of his bed, tucking his legs beneath the covers before he uncorks the vial. )
Do you always do what you're "supposed" to do?
( Aren't there some rules that are meant to be broken? Or rather, he thinks that there are times where the rules don't coincide with what's "right" anyway. He knocks back the vial of sleep aid and then recorks it, setting it on the nightstand before curling on one side.
His eyes do slide over to Bakugo in the doorway, already feeling heavy. )
At least get comfortable somewhere... The bed, or a chair, or whatever.
( Those are his last mumbled words before he falls right asleep. He wasn't kidding— that stuff is immediate and strong.
The master bedroom in particular is a room that's kept much of the same organizing that Bakugo had helped him with in his 2 suite. Of course, there's the upgrade of actual nice furniture, stylized in a clean fashion. Plants are everywhere, well taken care of and providing a nice, subtle smell of a garden, and his journal is right on his desk with an assortment of loose papers with botanical illustrations and neatly written notes labeling parts of plants. Some of them, at a quick glance, are of the types of Golden Peacock flowers in the garden, like the one that makes you fall asleep and need a kiss. He's been looking into it all!
There's the chair at the desk, comfortable but upright, or there's a bench at the foot of the bed, too. There's also an attached bathroom with even more seating in front of the mirror, like a built in vanity, and a whole shower and tub set up. Aside from that, nothing all that notable. So Bakugo can take care of what he needs while Esikko sleeps! )
[Bakugo rolls his eyes in annoyance at Esikko's cheeky response. Bratty old man prince. At least he's getting into bed so there's no more harping about that.]
Depends on if the instructions are stupid.
[He was "supposed" to work with Midoriya during that test, but he hated the very idea of doing something so humiliating. And he was driven by his own pride and power to win all on his own. It didn't work out as he wanted... But that was a long time ago.
Rules aren't meant to be broken. Despite people's bitching, a lot of them are there to help and keep things running so nothing spins off into chaos. Esikko's not wrong about rules and "right" aren't always compatible. But again, that depends on the rule and the people involved.
Bakugo grunts in response before walking into the room and taking a seat on the chair near the bed.
Well damn... He's surprised at how fast the other man falls asleep. Most sleep aids take a while to kick in, apart from knock out fumes. Color him impressed. Bakugo gives it a few minutes before rising from the chair and glancing at Esikko's desk. Rummaging through someone else's notes and journals is a shitty action, so he ignores it.
Rather he heads out of Esikko's bedroom and wanders the suite, looking for a bathroom + shower combo before finding the laundry. It takes a while. But once he does locate them, it's a matter of throwing his clothes in the machine, then getting a shower to clean himself off while they spin around in the wash. Who knows how long the machine takes to wash and dry, but he'll hang around until he and his clothes are clean, then dress and-- after checking on Esikko one more time --take his leave of the suite with a quiet click of the now-locked front door.]
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Date: 1/28/25 20:03 (UTC)He's even speculated, if this is the right path, the House would issue some sort of gag order to prevent it from getting out. Something he's begrudgingly respected by only bringing this up with people he trusts implicitly. And even that's usually vague and quick. So when Esikko respond with his own meandering comment, Bakugo accepts it with a grunt and little else.]
Tch. Who I wanna tell anything's my fucking business.
[Considering he told Esikko... the prince can take that as he wants. Bakugo's already done so. Not as keen to spread the knowledge, considering the hypothetical gag and the House's petty nature. He worked it out by himself, with his own research and questions! Other people can do the same. Hmph. Besides, anyone rank 5 or higher really has no need to know.]
You ever find me bleeding out on the floor, handle it and we're even.
[Patching someone up isn't equal trade to suddenly gaining a sugar daddy.]
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Date: 1/29/25 08:13 (UTC)( It's an instant sort of retort, annoyed as it is soft, but Esikko immediately feels ashamed at letting any sort of implication of his own loneliness slip through like that. So he shoves another bite of loaf into his mouth, even if he's finding it difficult to chew, difficult to want to eat anything, and stares down at the soup with tired eyes.
At least trying to rank down will be worth it. If it's a puzzle like the one he got, he expects Bakugo would be the type to be able to handle it. It wasn't complex at all. )
...It's the Divinity, by the way. The cause for this. The curse of a god, you know... My body has been weak since birth, so having this eating away at it only causes that poor health of mine to decline faster. It's this sort of cycle that ends in the Divinity trying to eat away at me completely.
( He's eaten a bit, at least, but he has to put down his silverware now with a quiet sigh. )
I think it wants to use my body like soil, to be reborn. I don't know, since it kills me in the end, anyway. Those potions are my attempts at postponing it while I look for a more permanent solution.
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Date: 1/30/25 00:00 (UTC)[As someone who recently changed ranks himself, again, Esikko's had his hand in the shifting levels of their stupid social scale. He's also pissed off the House before. Bakugo hasn't forgotten that damn branding the prince sported a while ago. Like hell is he going to get the guy involved more than he needs to be. The prince knows his plan and Bakugo can already tell Esikko's thought about this before. Maybe even knows more, but still kept shit vague.
Enough of that. He reaches across the table and pinches the plate rim to drag it over, out of reach. No more for him. Before his jaw locks up, or worse, his stomach rejects everything. Esikko's eaten enough for Bakugo's satisfaction. The rest can go in the fridge for reheating later.]
Try to finish the soup. You'll need liquid. [Having lost so much blood already. ] Don't guzzle it.
[In case Esikko thought he had to cram that down his throat too. Take his time, sip when he feels less nauseous, rest when he's balancing on the edge of blowing chunks. Gross. Bakugo pushes his chair out and heads for the stove to handle the leftovers.]
Divinity, huh... [Getting a glimpse into Esikko's mysterious affliction. He was curious, but avoided demanding more information unless it was necessary. Though he did snarl at the prince to tell him once he felt better.] Is that the price you had to pay for resetting your life? Or something that took the opportunity to latch on?
[A deal with the devil or some dumb schmuck who got unlucky.]
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Date: 2/2/25 06:40 (UTC)( He realizes, with a frown, that it's hard to explain how the timelines all blend together in his mind. How the first time and this current time feel so wildly different and yet the same, how his emotions always seem stuck on this same track, how no matter how wildly he flails he can never seem to get himself off of it.
He pokes at the soup with his spoon a few times, clearly trying to find the will to take another sip. But first: ) If you'd like another opinion, you could ask that ex-bodyguard of mine. Kirma.
( The same one he'd complained to Bakugo about plenty of times, who'd kidnapped him. But also the same he killed some time back, who was apparently alive again and ignoring him. He does another particularly annoyed stab at his soup before lifting the spoon to his mouth this time, taking a slow sip. )
He's always so opinionated on my business, but maybe he's right.
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Date: 2/3/25 23:36 (UTC)[Esikko's reveal sounds completely ridiculous, even though Bakugo's at least come to accept the other man's not lying. Gods and magic don't exist in his world beyond traditional Japanese beliefs that many people have mostly left behind outside of ceremonies, holidays, and other, well, traditions. But he's not here to judge Esikko's world. Albeit snarking at the other man for making some shit choices in his opinion.]
And the god you ate? Doesn't sound like it gets a do over in life.
[Is this pity? Hell no! But bluntly pointing out, if it's true, Esikko murdered someone else all for the sake of trying to give himself a better life, screw what it cost the person he slaughtered. Bakugo isn't gonna blame the god for giving Esikko the worst case of indigestion/food poisoning known to man in revenge.]
Tch, the guy you've said nothing but shit about? Pass.
[At this point in time, the hero's liable to punch the dog out rather than listen to anything he has to say. He doesn't really know about the "killed him" part yet. Or he's been told Esikko did it in self defense. He finishes packing up the soup in a container and slots it in the fridge.]
A bodyguard should know what he's getting himself into, Prince Prick.
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Date: 2/4/25 03:50 (UTC)That god was a flower. Gods in our world are concepts more than anything else. This was lone flower blooming on a mountain top.
( It's the same language he always speaks, with Peacock's translation picking it up as always, but there's something foreign sounding in the name beyond even that.
He feels himself getting sick again, so he lays his spoon down, staring into the reflections of the broth. )
I hate him, but there's also a reason I've stuck by him until now. But... maybe part of me just wishes he'd run into someone who could see past his innocent demeanor to the twisted ego he really has.
( Now, he sighs, rubbing at his temples like that might help. )
I'm talking too much.
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Date: 2/4/25 04:07 (UTC)Doesn't answer the question.
[Translation or weird tone or not, the words don't do anything to address what Bakugo was getting at. Taken at face value, it makes the entire ordeal sound worse, picking on a lone creature struggling to survive, or consuming something that alone had managed to surpass all odds and live in a place it shouldn't have been able to.
Bakugo notes the way Esikko puts his spoon down and comes by to take the bowl and the spoon away before the man can force himself to try another sip. That's enough for now. No point in making hi puke.]
You told me you haven't been around him for fucking months, Prince Prick.
[During the painting copy fiasco, even earlier than that, Esikko made it sound like he wasn't dealing with the dog anymore. Was that a lie?]
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Date: 2/4/25 04:18 (UTC)( He sighs, but allows his hands to drop away from his own face. Instead, he watches Bakugo gather things up with a twitch of a small frown. It bothers him, to sit here, to barely be able to hold down food, to have been saved and fed and not even be able to make it up in any significant way.
But he knows getting up would only make it worse, so he curls his fingers into his palms and stays out. )
I have been trying to deal with him less, yes. We no longer live together, but he finds me in my room, in the hallways, while I'm out. He's an annoying dog.
This is even his old suite.
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Date: 2/4/25 05:08 (UTC)[Though technically, someone's "life" basically includes their entire world, so yeah. That's logical. Still sounds like a ridiculous piece of magic for one person to randomly stumble across.
Bakugo finishes up the leftovers, roast slices layers nicely in the container, and caps the glass with its silicone lid. Into the fridge with the soup. The remains in Esikko's bowl... down the sink. Normally he'd bitch at someone for wasting food, but there's barely five spoonfuls left. The guy did well enough with what he had.
As for Esikko's guilt... that's his burden. Bakugo's not nice enough to comfort someone for shooting himself in the foot. At least the prince isn't pitching a fit.]
Hmph. [Maybe he heard wrong, but Bakugo was under the impression Esikko had no further dealings with someone who abused him. But this isn't his business.] With your rank now, you can order the staff to take him away, or get a fucking restraining order.
[With the ability to wield the glories of the Hotel to his liking, any interaction Esikko has with someone he doesn't want to have interactions with, is on him.
As for being in the guy's suite... well that's just gross.]
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Date: 2/7/25 01:34 (UTC)( Because time is weird, timelines are weird, universes... It's a little like being in the Peacock, actually.
But he considers the other words. True, he has his rank now, and that seems to be ahead of even the TRANSGRESSOR mark that's still so permanently etched into his neck. Most staff will still listen to him, despite that, though he'll get sideeyes and questions on occasion... But.
But is it that simple?
Are any toxic relationships simple?)...I'm aware of that, at least. I suppose it makes sense that you wouldn't want to hear my complaints, if I'm the one allowing any possibility for these things to happen. ( His hair is starting to dry now, its usual waves, and he runs his fingers through a lock of it quietly. ) But I don't hate everything.
And I suppose it would feel strange, or empty, to completely turn away from someone who has always been there. Who I had focused on when there was nothing else to focus on? ( He doesn't know how to explain it. ) And after all I've done to him, I guess a part of me feels it must just be the repayment that's deserved.
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Date: 2/7/25 03:19 (UTC)[Yeah, it's difficult to explain, but Bakugo's also a superpower nerd, SECRETLY, so this has a morbid interest despite the topic being pretty wrong in many ways.
Most things fall apart when you start talking about time travel. Rules have to be established and held rigidly or everything starts to break up with a flurry of "what if's" and "why didn't you's" all over.
Kind of odd an Ace rank would still have that mark on his neck, but he guesses the Peacock holds grudges hard. Then again, the Ace rank is kind of screwy compared to all the others. Bit of a wildcard at times.
Toxic relationships are both simple and complex. Simple in that if you're in one, get the fuck out. Complex in that it's not so easy. The latter of which Bakugo simply can't understand because he's never been in one.]
Would you wanna listen to someone whine after you watched them shoot their own foot?
[It's less a dismiss to Esikko and more trying to get him to realize he can control his own decisions.]
Never said you did.
[Even though later Esikko will said everything about him's infuriating. MAKE UP YOUR MIND, MAN!!]
You've done to him? All you've ever said is what he's done to you.
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Date: 2/7/25 03:31 (UTC)But I severed that chain here. It's odd, since I always thought he hated me for setting it up in the first place— but he was sad, when I did.
( Obviously it's not a literal chain he's talking about here. Like an invisible chain between souls, forcing them both to always end up back together somehow. Like, a manmade red string of fate, in a dark, twisted sort of way...?
Esikko looks like he's not pleased with himself for it, at least. )
That painting-me was so angry that I had done that. And it made me wonder, for the first time... if the "me" of any past was really "me."
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Date: 2/7/25 05:19 (UTC)Kirma being from Esikko's world is... well... Esikko probably told him that before, but it never clicked until now. He thought it was some crazy bastard from the hotel that ended up being a problem.]
Has anyone told you you're a fucking idiot?
[Dragging someone else in this stupid resetting spell. Cannibalizing a god. Shackling himself to someone who's abusive and yet both of them are apparently codependent on each other. Then breaking it off here after six or seven lifetimes together.]
Sounds like the only thing that stays the same in all your lives is that you ultimately don't like your life.
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Date: 2/8/25 05:40 (UTC)( At the table, Esikko fidgets with his own hands, cold fingertips pressing into the palm of the opposite, eyes tracing the way his skin takes time to fill the color back in. )
But I think the problem is that I do. Not the details, not what happens, not how it ends, of course— but it would be much easier to die and be free of it all. But I can't think that way.
( He can't be like Aventurine, who came to him begging for death, who used him like a tool to get it. He can't be like Kirma, who gives in and lets death happen again and again. It has him wondering if that's how it should be, for him. )
What bothers me the most is that there's not enough time for me to continue trying. Resetting is the closest thing I can manage.
( Another press of his palm, a squeeze, a distracted dig of his own fingernails to try and distract from how stupid he feels sharing this. )
Here, though, it's different, isn't it? People are brought back in an entirely different way. If I can find a way to manage this curse, maybe I can simply... keep living. For a while. Even if I have to die once or twice first, if I don't forget my precious memories, then it's entirely different, you know?
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Date: 2/10/25 02:47 (UTC)[He's not asking for clarification. Esikko's the only one who knows if his dislike for his own life is either apparent or truthful. Bakugo's not here to dig into it. He pushes off the counter and tugs open the freezer to grab some ice from the tray. Then shuts the door and soon deposits the cubes into a glass from the cabinet. Water follows.
He lowers the glass after a drink.]
You're the one who trapped yourself in an unending cycle.
[Of course he can't think that way; as far as Bakugo knows, the curse is endless. Hard to know now if Esikko knew the magic he tampered with would result in such a thing or if he was a foolish moron dabbling in shit beyond his understanding.
He frowns at the second part. In one way, it makes sense; in another...]
You're one of the few who have unlimited tries. How the hell is that not enough time?
[Esikko might feel stupid sharing it, but Bakugo's trying to connect all the dots and feeling he isn't succeeding as much as he wants. The prince ends with "you know?" and the blonde gives him a flat look over the glass' rim.]
Nope.
[He does not fucking know at all.]
You haven't died in the Peacock yet. Either from your curse, another guest, or House related shit.
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Date: 2/10/25 07:05 (UTC)( He pushes himself up from the table, finally, a little steadier on his feet than he had been going up to the shower. He still looks too pale, and his eyes look heavier than usual, but all things considered, he's doing much better. )
I haven't died yet, but I nearly did, and I've seen people who have. They don't bring you back as a newborn, they bring you back with something... wrong, in some other way. So I'm just saying... I'd keep my memories, unlike all these other times back home. Some of those are still lost.
( He sighs. )
I know you must not think I should simply die and accept it, or you wouldn't have saved me, so forget all of this for now. Can I just ask... Someone told me about that "speed dial" thing. Can I add you to mine?
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Date: 2/11/25 03:36 (UTC)[That makes sense if it's true. Truncating Esikko's time per life until there's nothing left. Not eternal but rather slowly approaching an ugly finish. An unknown time limit.
Bakugo sets his glass on the counter and leaves it with a firm roll of his shoulder to hips. He approaches Esikko to at least be present for an escort if he needs it. The man seems to have more stability now; that's promising. Still pale, but then again, Esikko's normally pretty damn pale. A good sleep should have him feeling better.]
Aa, you mentioned that last time. [Something he's taken to heart and pisses him off all the more.] Don't do anything that'll get yourself killed here, dammit.
[Even if that means calling someone to dig bloody roots out of his back.]
Che! Don't order me around. [He's not forgetting any of this, dumbass.] Aa, go ahead.
[Not really something Esikko should need to even ask permission for. Just fucking do it. Who cares if they're on full number or *9 on someone's watch?]
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Date: 2/11/25 06:25 (UTC)( As for not getting himself killed, he is trying. It's why he asks that question about the speed dial at all. Because, maybe it sounds simple, or like something he could have done anyway, and it is... but it's also his way of asking if he can keep calling on Bakugo if there's an emergency.
Because even if he's done it before, more than once, and even if Bakugo has come each time... he feels like a burden for it. Even if he can't ask that directly, it helps a little to hear he's not being told to stop bugging him.
Even if he will try everything he can to not have to. )
Thanks, in any case. I think... I'm going to lie down. But you're welcome to stay, if you feel like using the shower, or anything else.
( "Come back any time" feels redundant to say when he already gave the offer of a spare bedroom, so... He leaves it at that, unless Bakugo seems like he has more to say. )
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Date: 2/11/25 18:04 (UTC)Some people might question or wonder if a hero feels like they're a burden, needing rescuing, needing help, but how stupid is it to get pissed off at doing the very thing you dedicated your life to do?! ...Says the guy who will immediately yell at the civilian he rescued for being a moron needing rescue in the first place...
Bakugo has PR issues galore.]
I'll make sure you're asleep before I go back. [And yeah, he'll likely take a shower so he's not stalking around the halls looking like a damn zombie film survivor. Gonna have to clean his clothes too.]
Unless you're gonna sleep on the couch, get moving to your room. [He'll follow.]
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Date: 2/13/25 23:06 (UTC)Aren't you supposed to be kind and gentle to someone who's recovering from an injury?
( He's teasing, since he thinks Bakugo's actions have been plenty kind on their own, and the only time people have been nice to him during recovery... Well, there's just Kirma, and he'd realized a little too late that he was just being nice because he was excited seeing him so weak.
Esikko's hand rests on the railing as he moves up the stairs. )
By the way, did you know the House is capable of texting your Watch itself? ( It seems out of nowhere because he specifically waited for some distance between the conversation about ranks to this. ) It sent me a puzzle that was laughably easy...
And anyway, it seems to have a strange level of personality for an entity like itself, considering it couldn't resist the urge to insult me for being a "transgressor". ( At the top of the stairs, the master bedroom isn't far, and he pushes the door open lightly, trailing in. ) I just thought you'd be interested in knowing those little facts.
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Date: 2/14/25 01:13 (UTC)What do you think I am, some kinda fucking dream nurse? Move your ass.
[Oh he's got lovely bedside manners. His words and his actions are sometimes a pure clash. Bakugo takes the stairs one at a time, not wanting to be Esikko's shadow stuck to his back. The man's already dealing with embarrassment over his weakness. ]
Huh? Not surprised. The damn thing's got a brain. [It created everything in here, including the Watch, so getting a text from the stupid chicken itself... Hell, kind of surprised it hasn't done that regularly. Bakugo arches a brow at the segue into puzzles.]
For what? Some stupid midnight texting? [Wouldn't put it past the damn thing to bother people. He shoves his hands into his pockets as ascends, clicking his tongue at the reminder of Esikko's branding.] Doesn't like people trying to beat it. Like any damn casino.
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Date: 2/14/25 06:34 (UTC)( There's brief consideration over whether he should send a brief part of the conversation and riddle, but ultimately, he decides that Bakugo's intelligent enough to handle whatever riddle or task comes his way without any further preparation. Not that he's going to say as much out loud, of course. )
It called me so many names, I can only assume I left quite the impression. ( Which he feels cocky about, even as his feet grow tired on their walk to his own bed. He pauses suddenly, stopped right inside the door to the bedroom itself, and turns to face Bakugo. )
...Anyway, it's hard enough to sleep normally, let alone with someone watching, so I'm going to take something for it. ( Handmade! ) It means I won't wake up unless you reaaally want me to, at least for a good few hours, so—
( Here, he rests cold fingertips on Bakugo's shoulder, leaning in to place a tiny peck on his cheek, lingering just long enough to say: ) Thanks again, hero.
( He pulls back just as quickly, spinning to head back towards the bed with a pointed avoidance in looking back again. He looks in his nightstand first, pulling out the small vial that's likely the sleeping aid. )
Or should I call you Mr. Dream Nurse now? You know, if the staff in the palace had been bold enough to tell me to... fuck off, or whatever, it would have at least been a lot more interesting. ( He's just babbling to avoid the small worries he has about the House and Bakugo in particular, because they're foreign enough... But also, in case Bakugo wants to yell at him a little more before he chugs this vial. Or like, ask where the laundry room is. He'll share these things. )
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Date: 2/14/25 22:31 (UTC)Or just outside, once the man stops and Bakugo almost bumps into him.] Oy! Don't stop all of a sudden!
[He backs off, giving the man a space to get out if he has to go elsewhere.]
You pissed it off. [Good to know the Peacock's immature enough to hold grudges and call names. Immaturity means easier exploitation. Funny Esikko talks about having trouble sleeping with someone watching, yet Bakugo's pretty damn sure the guy's fallen asleep with people in his bed. He does not want to ask about that. Private shit.]
Uh-huh. I want you to go to sleep, not wake the fuck back up. [Sheesh. He's like a little kid, dragging his feet when it's time to go to bed. Bakugo glances down at the fingertips poking icy on his shoulder. Then tenses up when the man suddenly kisses him right on the cheek. FOOM! Flushed and snarling, head tilted to the side despite the heat on his face.] Dammit! I'm not some maid!
[But he is a hero. Bakugo rubs at his cheek, grumbling to himself and glancing to the side before returning his attention back to Esikko's retreating back. While he doesn't invade the guy's room immediately, he takes his place in the doorway. Red eyes wander about the space, noting all the elements making this space distinctly Esikko's. Of course flowering plants along the decor, a heavy scent of flora hangs in the air, though that might also be the prince himself.]
Call me that and you'll be eating your stupid pillow. [Hmph. Bakugo crosses his arms over his chest.] You're not supposed to tell your prince to fuck off, idiot.
[That's how royalty works in those settings. As for finding the laundry... eh, he'll manage. Esikko getting to sleep is more important.]
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Date: 2/15/25 23:09 (UTC)Do you always do what you're "supposed" to do?
( Aren't there some rules that are meant to be broken? Or rather, he thinks that there are times where the rules don't coincide with what's "right" anyway. He knocks back the vial of sleep aid and then recorks it, setting it on the nightstand before curling on one side.
His eyes do slide over to Bakugo in the doorway, already feeling heavy. )
At least get comfortable somewhere... The bed, or a chair, or whatever.
( Those are his last mumbled words before he falls right asleep. He wasn't kidding— that stuff is immediate and strong.
The master bedroom in particular is a room that's kept much of the same organizing that Bakugo had helped him with in his 2 suite. Of course, there's the upgrade of actual nice furniture, stylized in a clean fashion. Plants are everywhere, well taken care of and providing a nice, subtle smell of a garden, and his journal is right on his desk with an assortment of loose papers with botanical illustrations and neatly written notes labeling parts of plants. Some of them, at a quick glance, are of the types of Golden Peacock flowers in the garden, like the one that makes you fall asleep and need a kiss. He's been looking into it all!
There's the chair at the desk, comfortable but upright, or there's a bench at the foot of the bed, too. There's also an attached bathroom with even more seating in front of the mirror, like a built in vanity, and a whole shower and tub set up. Aside from that, nothing all that notable. So Bakugo can take care of what he needs while Esikko sleeps! )
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Date: 2/16/25 17:17 (UTC)Depends on if the instructions are stupid.
[He was "supposed" to work with Midoriya during that test, but he hated the very idea of doing something so humiliating. And he was driven by his own pride and power to win all on his own. It didn't work out as he wanted... But that was a long time ago.
Rules aren't meant to be broken. Despite people's bitching, a lot of them are there to help and keep things running so nothing spins off into chaos. Esikko's not wrong about rules and "right" aren't always compatible. But again, that depends on the rule and the people involved.
Bakugo grunts in response before walking into the room and taking a seat on the chair near the bed.
Well damn... He's surprised at how fast the other man falls asleep. Most sleep aids take a while to kick in, apart from knock out fumes. Color him impressed. Bakugo gives it a few minutes before rising from the chair and glancing at Esikko's desk. Rummaging through someone else's notes and journals is a shitty action, so he ignores it.
Rather he heads out of Esikko's bedroom and wanders the suite, looking for a bathroom + shower combo before finding the laundry. It takes a while. But once he does locate them, it's a matter of throwing his clothes in the machine, then getting a shower to clean himself off while they spin around in the wash. Who knows how long the machine takes to wash and dry, but he'll hang around until he and his clothes are clean, then dress and-- after checking on Esikko one more time --take his leave of the suite with a quiet click of the now-locked front door.]