[That reaction is easy to read through, not that it stops him from teasing.]
You could just say thanks!
[But he expected this much. Typical awkward Baku-kun.]
I don't like to carry anything heavier than a chopstick. That's why it's so handy to have Jun-kun around~♪
[Said shamelessly.
His eyes wander up and down the Ace hall as Bakugo takes the platter off him. Bakugo's new home, huh? But he's not the only Ace around, and Hiyori wouldn't want to run into one of the other ones he knows. He starts walking in the direction Bakugo came from.]
Now that you're a so-called "face card," you might as well get used to luxury. Though I guess you were a Queen once upon a time. You probably like "Ace" more since it sounds manlier, right?
[And retreats to his room in a huff. Given the size of those double doors, it's gonna be an impressive suite. Bakugo slips his shoes off in the foyer, expecting Hiyori to do the same. There's a small set of cube-like cubbies for visitors' shoes and guest slippers (and yes, they are quite clean and cared for).]
Is he finally out of the hospital?
[Bakugo's still never met the guy, despite being closer to Hiyori for a long time now. His suite's thankfully not near the elevator, since he doesn't want to deal with it dinging every time people come or go from the hall. But given the quality of the suite, he never hears it anyways.]
Aa. [Shut up about the "Queen" did, Parrot. Hmph.] The Ace is a sort of wild card too. When the ranks swapped, Aces switched with sevens and eights instead. [And despite being the 1 in some games, the 13 in other games, the Aces rank below Kings and Queens in the Peacock. It's a strangely flexible rank.]
Then let's hurry on back to your room! Chop chop! ♪
[Which they then proceed to do.
In response to the "finally out of the hospital" comment:]
What hospital? Jun-kun's a healthy growing boy! Though I don't think he's grown too much recently...
[One day they'll have a three-person thread together. Maybe. ... possibly.
Hiyori is never going to shut up about Bakugo having been a Queen temporarily, alas. He's especially not going to shut up about it given that each and every reference earns him a funny response from Bakugo. If you don't want to be teased, then you gotta stop reacting in a funny way!
But for now, it's off to visit his Ace suite. Hiyori looks around the foyer and is suitably impressed by what he sees; his suite, of course, doesn't have any sort of "welcome area." Only a small space at the door to kick off one's shoes.]
Is that how it worked? I know I didn't get to be an Ace. I got downgraded to a 7! Which was just sad, since they didn't let me have marshmallows in my cocoa! "Those are reserved for 8s and above," they said! Remember that nonsense?
[Hence the sushi-slash-cocoa party they had. After taking off his shoes, Hiyori wanders off into the next area, taking a look at that, too.]
Anyway, this seems like a nice place. And this time, you get to hold onto it...♪ Any plans to throw a housewarming party? I'm sure the staff will be happy to help out. You can treat them like minions! ♪
Tch. Thought he was in the medical wing for a long ass time.
[Good to know he's healthy then. Mr. Mystery.
DAMMIT!! FORGET HIS QUEENSHIP AND RESPECT HIS AWESOME ACE!! Being a Queen was annoying given all the people running at him and the suite being a stupid ass little town. Way too much space for one person! Even if he let some people stay there to avoid their own rank drop. The Ace suits him better, and the King or Queen little more than a rank away if he ever wants to go the full step. (He likely will not.)
One day, his "funny" reaction is gonna be a blast to the face!
And impressive foyer leads to a grand living area with a massive kitchen and impressive-sized island in the middle. Everything is within reach from the center, letting him go from hot (stove) to cold (sink) to space (counter) on either side. And other spaces as well, but they can explore those later. Bakugo sets the gift on the island for now.]
You went from an eight to a seven, right? [With the Ace itself being either a seven or an eight when it swapped. Another element of the rank's random/flexible nature. Yeah, he remembers the marshmallows.]
Hell no. If people wanna come see, they can ask. [Did Hiyori really think Bakugo-- master of dodging his own birthday --would want to throw his own party? Hilarious.] Here.
[And whoosh goes a package of mini marshmallows Bakugo had in the cupboard. Specifically for when Hiyori came over.]
Massive kitchens with impressive islands are not an unfamiliar sight, given that he hails from a wealthy noble family. It's a definite upgrade over his own suite though, and not a huge downgrade over the temporary Queen suite. Hiyori leans back against the center island, peering up at the high cabinets before he turns his attention back on Bakugo and nods in response to the question.]
That's what happened! And now I'm a so-called 8 again. Which beats being a 7, since at least you get marshmallows come wintertime, but certainly isn't as cushy as being your rank. You're not the only person who's gone from a low rank to a sky-high one recently.
[He thinks about Topaz and Leona... and Esikko, who once implied to him that he became an Ace through unusual means but refused to explain how. However.
Remembering him at all makes his chest hurt and his blood boil. It's not unrelated to why he came over here, and his shoulders sag as a heavy feeling comes over him. Before he can linger on that feeling too long, though, Bakugo tosses a package of marshmallows his way, which he catches instinctively.]
Hm—?
[He examines the object for a moment, and then his expression brightens.]
Ah, so you've developed a taste for them! Unless you keep some on-hand just for when I come over? That's so thoughtful of you...♪
[Hiyori, don't make him regret being nice to you...!]
Shut up. [Some IC mixing OOC confusion. We'll cut this bit on the DVD.]
[Right, Hiyori came from a wealthy family. This should be more up his alley, something he's familiar with. Bakugo found the Queen suite ridiculous, while the Ace suite is somewhat less ridiculous. Plenty of space, plenty of rooms, plenty of options. He still has adjustments and orders to make to really turn the place into something of his own, but he's getting there, slowly but surely. At least everything is neat and clean.]
Oh yeah? How many do you know of? [He only knew of two, Esikko and someone he's not gonna mention. Bad history. Hiyori can keep his names a secret if he wants; Bakugo's not gonna begrudge him since he's half not willing to say either.
Red eyes narrow slightly when he notices the idol's shoulders slump. He can guess why, given the guy's current rank and what he's used to, plus how he's required to get it in this stupid place. Not gonna get into that right now. Here, have some sugar and cheer up.
Nice reflexes, as usual.]
Don't make a big deal out of it, Parrot. You want the chocolate or not? [Because he did indeed keep some on hand for when Hiyori comes over.]
You're the fifth one off the top of my head. One went from a low rank to a Queen, one went all the way to King, and three became Aces including you. I've seen other people improve their rank too, of course. Rinne-senpai went from a 5 to an 8, and then we became floormates. I'm pretty sure he earned his rank the "normal" way, though, unlike some of those other people.
[Aka by sleeping around.
And yes, he's implying he knows Bakugo might not have earned his rank upgrade the "normal" way, either. Maybe he did; he did seem determined to clear his deck, and Hiyori knows he's gotten some cards recently (go ahead, ask how he knows!). But Hiyori is observant, and he's pretty sure some low-ranked guests have found a way to speedrun their status climb. One person all-but-confirmed it for him.
Not that he's terrribly jealous. Though he'd like a kitchen and a nicer suite, having a middling rank affords certain advantages, such as decreased attention from the House. His rank has never been a priority, and it's not what weighs on his mind now. He came here for self-defense weapons, after all.
But, well. There's nothing to say he can't enjoy some cocoa before he gets his grenades. He didn't expect it, but he's sincerely touched that Bakugo keeps chocolate on-hand, too. For a moment it feels like the heavy burden on his heart has been lifted, and he smiles.]
Of course! It can be another cocoa-and-sushi party~♪
[He takes his marshmallow bag and starts to walk off again.]
Since I'm the guest and you're the host, I'll go relax on the couch while I wait.
Tch, if this place is gonna give people ways to change their ranks, don't expect everyone to stay where they are.
[As much as it irks him Hiyori's implying he didn't "earn" his rank, he can't exactly challenge him. One of them was indeed earned though an event's prize, but the other was given to him for his birthday. Enough for him to put the two together and make his gamble. A gamble he spent researching in the background for several months. His speculate speedrun isn't a speculation at all. All of which paid off, along with the expected gag order.
He's NOT asking how Hiyori knows he got cards! Anyone who's been here more than a month means they've been sleeping around and decidedly not getting kicked out of the resort for noncompliance. Hmph!
Two people he knows prefer the lower ranks, one even got himself demoted and liked it. Guess they have their benefits too. Bakugo intends to use his rank more to help people than because he wants some cushy digs.]
You'll be here a lot longer if you want me to make sushi. [He doesn't have any ready-made on hand, but has the ingredients. For now, he's getting the milk and preparing the hot chocolate for Hiyori. Hot chocolate in summer. Gross...]
If you wanna change the window scenery, the panel's on the wall to the right-most window.
[He's got it set to show a school campus, as if looking out from a dorm room.]
No one's ever asked me if I want to change my rank.
[He complains.
But it's not a very serious complaint, when he knows he hasn't been playing the game and his rank was never low to start with. It's also a lie since he actually does have a +1 rank token sitting around. I just haven't used it yet.]
But congrats on moving up in the world. I'm sure your suite was a lot shabbier than mine, so this must feel like sweet relief. And now whenever we want to meet up, I can just head to your suite! I'll have plenty of room to kick back and relax, and you'll have plenty of room to cook for us! ♪
[Yep. He's treating Bakugo like a personal chef. Talk about entitlement!]
I just gave you sushi!
[That's what he says when Bakugo complains about his sushi-and-cocoa idea. Not that he expects Bakugo to sacrifice too much of the platter when it was a gift for him to enjoy. In any case, Hiyori skips out of the room, still having himself a look around—and still loudly making commentary, because that's what he always does.]
Baku-kun misses school, huh?
[He says in response to the directive about the window scenery.]
It's nice, but so far your suite's not as personalized as I would have thought! I don't see much hero stuff, grenades, violently clashing colors, action-y things, and other things boys your age seem to love! Whereas Weiss-chan's suite looked exactly like "her," and Nami-chan has her own beach resort. I do like the temperature better, though. Weiss-chan's suite was too cold for me, and Nami-chan's was somewhat hot. Compared to their suites, yours is just right...♪
This damn bird isn't gonna ask! You have to tell it!
[Non-serious complaint taken seriously. Who's surprised? Bakugo had always wanted to change his rank, pissed at being stuck so low when he was so damn awesome. But his stubbornness about playing the game and his pride against someone offering to change it for him meant he stayed where he was until he earned his change himself. Plus I didn't "get" how the card point system worked for a long ass time, and Bakugo's age made getting some cards difficult.]
Tch. It's a hotel room. Only an idiot couldn't take care of a room that size. [He took great pride in making his small space suitable, neat, and strong. You wouldn't think his Rank 3 room was "shabby" like some people bitched about basement rooms. Whoever gets his previous room is gonna be miles ahead of his or her neighbor.]
Haa?! I'm not your personal chef! You wanna eat, you'll work for it! [Straight up denied! As he's busy preparing hot chocolate for Hiyori on the stove.
WOW NOT ME GETTING MY THREADS MIXED UP!!]
I said if I made it!
[He'll be putting that platter right down between the two of them to eat off of. Sushi doesn't exactly keep the best in the fridge for more than a day or two. The kitchen faces the living area, so it's not like Hiyori has to vanish out of sight to go enjoy the scenery. A large dining area is nearby, with doors to other rooms elsewhere.]
Shut up. [He doesn't "miss" school. (Yes he fucking does; he's a prisoner!) Bakugo scoffs at the note of his suite's lack of personalizing.] Aa. I need to plan out what I want it to look like, then put in with the front desk for the changes. I'm not gonna make the request until I've got it perfect.
[Bakugo gives him a strange look at his spouting expectations and comparisons.]
What the hell kind of nerd's room do you think I have?!
So that's how it works, is it? You march up to the bird and say, "I'd like a better rank, please!"
[He's just jerking his chain. He knows it doesn't work like that.
Happens to the best of us!
He ignores Bakugo's claim that he won't cook for him—maybe not that often, but he's already cooked for him once. Or baked for him, rather: Hiyori hasn't forgotten the quiche and apple tarts. Thoughtful gifts, from a surprisingly thoughtful boy. Even if he's also rude, yell-y, explode-y, and got way too carried away inside the animatronic dragon thing... which he has no plans to ever talk about. Moving on!]
So that's how it worked in your case, huh? Nami-chan said the her Queen suite was just like that when she got there. As though they peered into her heart and figured out exactly what she wanted.
[Which is more than a bit creepy. He looks around the room a bit more before making himself comfortable on whatever sofa is in the living area, only smiling in response to that last incredulous-sounding question.]
Specifically, a "hero nerd's"! That's sort of what you are, no? Just like Jun-kun's a muscle-training junkie, so he had all these posters of powerlifters and athletes hanging on his wall at home. And, of course, another poster of someone very important to him.
[In his own suite?! What a rude ass guest!! Hiyori can choke on his marshmallows and die! Bastard.
Odds are he'll bake for him again if there's a good enough reason. Likely if the guy spends the night, Bakugo will make a similar dish for dinner or breakfast. Depends on if he feels like it. Kind of like now, wooden spoon rotating around the pot's insides as chocolate liquid and cocoa powders fuse together in sweetened milk. Hiyori gets the entire pot this time; Bakugo's not planning on drinking sugary heat in the middle of summer. He'll be sticking with lemonade.]
Aa. Mine's similar to that. [And gestures to the right, showing a bunch of gold and exotic luxury furniture all over the dining room. An opulent drench of wealth to make any decent guy feel uncomfortable as fuck.] Some people's are changed when they get there, others have to put in at the front desk.
[Bakugo would prefer the latter, so he has time to do what he wants rather than the resort jumping into his head and trying to decide whether he wants to shape his suite to look like his parents' house, U.A. dormitory, a hero agency, or a modern neat Japanese apartment.
Pretty large sectional sofa.]
I don't have anything like that, dammit! [He does in his room at his parents' house...] You want your chocolate hot or cooled?
I was just kidding! Or actually, I was curious, since we both know that's not how it works. I'm not sure how else people move from the bottom to the top of the hierarchy, since those who do it seem pretty tight-lipped.
[Esikko said he couldn't tell back when Hiyori asked. Now that they've had their falling out, he can't try asking him again. Not that he cares too much about his own rank, though it would be nice to have a bigger place. A kitchen for Jun to cook in, a comfortable lounge to invite friends into, a massive closet to hold his extensive wardrobe...
But not the gold furniture. He's seen more than enough of that to last a lifetime, just from walking around the Peacock's halls and lobby, so he eyes all that with a critical eye.]
So that's how it works, huh?
[Idly, he wonders why it differs from person to person. Maybe Queens and Kings don't have to put in the request form and Aces and Jacks do?]
Well, that explains a lot. I can't see you choosing that tacky gold stuff. I might like the finer things, but at this point I'm sick to death of gold.
[And peacocks and sexual imagery and bird references. Unless the reference is to his own birds, who are cute and wonderful. Anyway,]
What sort of drink is cooled cocoa? Unless you mean one of those "chocolate milkshakes." I've never had one, but I've heard they have ice cream! And ice cream is perfect for almost-summer! But if you don't have that on-hand, I'll go with hot chocolate, since your suite is air-conditioned anyway.
It wouldn't be the first thing the damn bird doesn't want people talking about.
[More or less agreeing that his silence isn't his own idea. But considering Hiyori's comment about the bottom to the top, maybe he's getting an idea of how it might work. Given the idol's rank, however, he's basically trapped in the middle. It's no more or less difficult for him to reach the upper ranks going either way.
But if he wants a higher rank, he could probably get some rank-ups through the events or partners? That Bakugo can talk about. Though it should be as obvious at the gold furniture in his suite.]
Aa. [Or maybe the peacock did look into his head and realized no matter what decision it made, Bakugo would get pissed off HE didn't make the decision, and would be back later to demand it change his suite to his "new" preferences. There are three to pick from in his head after all... parents', school's, personal's.]
No shit. I want something like a modern Japanese apartment, with wood and stone. [Similar to his parents' house, but with his own unique touches. Again, making it difficult because he wants it just right. Besides, if he has the option, he should make use of it.]
You can't just whip up a milkshake! [That requires machinery to do, and even going at milk + ice cream with a hand blender isn't going to work very well. He meant cooling the chocolate down, not a full on smoothie. Bakugo ladles some of the finished drink into a mug, then brings it to Hiyori with the marshmallows.] Here.
[Hiyori looks at him for a moment, something like understanding dawning on his face. So the people who rank up through mysterious means are expressly forbidden from talking about it, are they?
He doesn't ask. Curious as he is, he doesn't want to push his luck or get Bakugo in trouble with the "damn bird."]
Guess not!
[That's all he says, before letting the subject drop and heading to the big cushy sofa in the lounge area.]
Marrying the traditional and the modern, huh? Sounds nice!
[He continues to chat about Bakugo's design preferences. Then, regarding the milkshake:]
You can do anything you want, no? You're an Ace now. And most importantly, you're Baku-kun! The great exploding dynamite god! ♪
[Yes, he's making fun of that name again. But no, he does not actually expect Bakugo to whip him up a milkshake. When Bakugo brings him the cocoa, he smiles, reaching out both hands to accept the mug.]
[Good. Hiyori may be a shiny bright guy who sometimes plays the ditz, but he's not stupid. Bakugo watches his expression focus as realization settles in, his own eyes narrowing and a subtle dip of his head offering a response.
That said, just because he isn't allowed to talk about it doesn't mean he can't get around the gag order in other ways. After all, Bakugo talked to four people about the ranking and received clues in little slips without breaking agreements or endangering the other. No one said shit about guests figuring it out on their own.]
Aa. My parents' house was similar. [Considering how large the home was, Bakugo grew up used to being in nice surroundings. He'll eventually get his suite all straightened out.]
Great Explosion Murder God Dynamight! [Get it straight!] I'm not gonna bend the laws of reality, dumbass Parrot!
[Even if Hiyori's pulling his leg on it, the sheer audacity to use his hero name and new rank as rationale deserves getting his head slammed! Too bad all he's getting is his cup of hot chocolate and sweet pillows. Aka marshmallows.]
"My parent's house." Something in Hiyori's eyes softens just a tad when Bakugo says those words. He won't call Bakugo out on missing home, since he probably wouldn't admit it and it's kind of like rubbing salt into a wound. But he understands because he feels that way, too. Even if he misses the ES dorms a tad more than he misses his (massive, expensive) family home.]
Right, right! What you said!
[Explosive, exploding—same difference, clearly! Though he also left out the "murder" part, which... well.
After what just happened, he's not eager to talk about the murder part. Even to tease.
So he doesn't harp on the nickname and instead takes a sip of his hot cocoa. Hiyori's always interested in trying new things, even if he can be a bit finnicky and fussy. One fan recommended trying ice cream when it's cold out, so he did that once. By the same token, hot chocolate in the summer is something he's willing to try. Since Bakugo's suite is air-conditioned, it's no big deal. And of course, he remembered marshmallows! He lowers his mug after taking a sip—]
Hot!
[... but it doesn't appear he scalded himself or anything. And he's quick to smile again.]
But it tastes nice and chocolatey.
[And then he shifts the mug over to one hand, so he can hold two fingers up with his other.]
There are two things I wanted to discuss. Did you want to hear the nicer thing first, or the less-nice thing?
[He wouldn't be human if he didn't miss home. Even some of the worst people here miss their homes. Not always for nice sappy reasons, but they're all prisoners here. Bakugo has things to go back to, people and places and events he was ripped from the middle of. Perhaps it's masochistic to furbish his room into something resembling his home, but why the hell not? He's comfortable there. And carving out a piece of normalcy in this shitty place is one grab for control he can get. While he thought about the U.A. dorms... really doesn't want to open a door to a guest bedroom and find some of his classmates' dorm rooms sitting there. That's creepy.]
Tch. Choke on a marshmallow.
[So grumpy. He leave Hiyori with his drink and sweets and returns to the kitchen to get something of his own. No hot chocolate for him. Too warm for that crap. Even if his suite is nicely air conditioned.
Despite it being in his hero name, Bakugo doesn't make murder much a topic either.
The refrigerator door shuts with a humming "shlumph" and telltale rattle of drinks inside.] It's hot chocolate. What the hell did you think it was gonna taste like?
[One of those "cute guys state the obvious" things he's pretty sure idols do all the time.]
Don't care. Spit 'em out and I'll ask about the one I want.
[Both the telling-him-to-choke thing and the "What the hell did you think it was gonna taste like?" thing. It's true, part of his job is being cute while stating the obvious, but if Bakugo can't appreciate that, then it's on him!
As for the last bit, his brow furrows.]
Those two subjects have nothing to do with each other, which is why I didn't want to talk about them together, but fine! The nice thing was about an event my friend is planning. It's time for her annual "community meal!" She's looking for people who can cook, so I told her about your quiche and apple tarts!
[(We'll just say this thread takes place after this post went up, so I don't have to start a second one where he tells him about the community meal.)]
But as for the other thing, well...
[His face crumples a bit as he says this next bit.]
I won't name any names, but I learned about something horrible someone here did. I was disgusted by it, and by how he'd lied to me, so I said something rather rude to him. I don't think he'll go after me or send someone else, but that's why I wanted to stock up on more of those self-defense weapons.
[Is it any surprise Bakugo's never been fond of people trying to play cutesy with him? He thinks it ranges anywhere from stupid to debasing. Though he's kind of "used" to it from Hiyori now, so mostly the guy's annoying with little other reaction. Comes, goes, and he's back to normal.]
Community meal? [Bakugo arches a brow, not having heard of something like that before. What the hell kind of "community" do they even have in this place? It's a fucking resort, they're prisoners, nothing about this is a community! Wait- His eyes narrow and brows furrow.] You better not've volunteered me.
[He wouldn't put it past Hiyori to do so! Even if the idol's usually respective of other people's permissions. He's gonna have to make another quiche and tart or the guy, since he's so thrilled with the one-off gift.
(Too bad, he's gonna have to tell him about it anyways, cause this guy doesn't and by that i mean his player hardly ever checks the network.)
Bakugo's irritation morphs into something serious and more focused when Hiyori brings up the negative. Despite what the idol says, the hero only has one question to kick off the discussion.]
Who?
[He doesn't give a shit about someone's dirty secret or their horrible act. But if said person is potentially threatening someone he does give more than a shit about, different story.]
Technically I did not, but I did tell her about you! She held the same event last year. No one else was taking care of beverages, so I set up a lovely tea station with seven different blends and a whole host of garnishes to choose from. I'll probably do the same thing this year. Why not join me? You'll get to eat free, too, of course.
[There, he's made his pitch!
And now onto the less-fun part. The question, straight and to the point, makes his expression grow even more tense. Of course he gets why he asked, but...]
Are you sure you want to know?
[His eyes are serious.]
Don't just say yes. I want you to really think about it. I know you're the rough-and-tough type, but even you have friends here. How would you feel if you learned a terrible truth about one of them? Not just something unpleasant, but something that shattered any chance of you ever seeing them in a good light. It all concerns some incidents you weren't involved with, so strictly speaking, you didn't need to know. Considering all that, would you still want to?
["Technically" ... Bakugo has a feeling he's going to get cajoled (or pestered) into going to this thing. Why someone would bother with it is beyond him. Trying to encourage a bunch of prisoners to feel as if they're part of some damn community sounds wrong. Some people might respect the attempt. Whatever, her call.]
Why the hell would I go to something like that?
[Totally gonna have to do more than make a pitch, Hiyori. This guy won't even go out shopping with his classmates for dorm supplies. Calls it "stupid" and bails. No different here. He can get food easily enough.
Maybe return to it when they're done with the problem topic. Bakugo's expression remains the same even as Hiyori attempts to double-check his question. He's already made his decision and thought of the consequences. Wouldn't have demanded to know the answer if he hadn't weighed the choice.
Is it fitting Bakugo lances right through Hiyori's concerns and instead rationalizes it from another angle?]
If you're worried enough to arm yourself, then spit it out.
[He doesn't want to know for himself, or for the guilty party. He wants to know for Hiyori's safety. Wouldn't have cared enough to ask, but when the idol mentioned he was wary of this person trying to harm him... that changes things. Bakugo's not someone to take revenge for someone else or hunt down a problem to preemptively nip it in the bud without knowing the entire story and having good reason to do so.
And this wouldn't be the first time he's learned someone he knew made a shit decision. He'll be the judge of what light he sees someone else in, thanks.]
For the free food which you know hasn't been spiked, and the chance to chat!
[He says it like it should be obvious. Sorry, but he's an extravert through and through...]
I guess free things aren't as big a draw for you now that you're an Ace, but you should come and sample Jun-kun's cooking. And if you contribute your own cooking, that'll be a chance to prove how versatile you are! "I didn't know he could cook!" everyone will say. "He's a man with hidden talents!" Why, if your food is good enough, you might just make some new fans! ♪
[Yep. He's trying hard to sell this. He hasn't promised Topaz he'd recruit him (nor has he mentioned Bakugo's name to her), but he still thinks it's a good idea!]
His lips thin out and he goes quiet, staring down into his cocoa cup. He knew what Bakugo's response would be: he's the kind of tough guy who thinks he can handle hearing anything, no doubt. And it makes sense not to want to supply him with grenades without knowing who he's worried will attack him.
In truth, the answer is no one. Esikko claimed he wasn't a threat. But can he trust that when the other boy has been lying to him for so long? And can he trust that no one else in his circle will go after him, either, when the people Esikko surrounds himself with all sound pretty unstable too?
But there are other reasons Hiyori doesn't want to tell, and one of them, though he doesn't want to admit it, is this: Esikko and Bakugo are friends, aren't they? Perhaps not officially, but they know each other and get along well enough. That was the impression he got. It's stupid, after everything—he shouldn't care about Esikko at all anymore. But there's a part of him would feel bad about ruining that friendship, if indeed Bakugo did decide to cut ties with Esikko, too.
In the end, that feeling of guilt isn't enough to stop him. If Esikko didn't want to be the kind of person people warn each other about in hushed whispers, then he shouldn't have done what he did. Still Hiyori's eyes are downcast as he comes out with the truth, voice heavy with exhaustion and sadness.]
Fine. It was Esikko-kun. He committed two murders, and he forced someone to do something bad to the one of the corpses. But please don't make me explain what that was, alright?
[Vetted free food isn't a horrible outing; he's gone to restaurants in the resort if people are with him and vouch the fare's safe. But the "chance" to chat instantly makes him mentally scowl. Great, someone wants him to socialize with a bunch of people he doesn't know who probably want to say dumb crap. Ugh... He's not gonna waste his time.
... but Hiyori's inviting him. Damn social extrovert.
Bakugo's expression wrinkles in irritation. HE SEES WHAT YOU'RE TRYING TO DO HERE, DAMMIT! He's not stupid! Cajoling him with his pride and skill! And don't think he missed that damn backhanded compliment. Doesn't want "fans" in this perverted place. He has enough trouble with the bullshit coming with his new rank.]
If I feel like it! What's the theme?
[That's all he's gonna express for now! If he bothers doing this, he's gonna make the best damn dish anyone's seen! Hiyori has to tell him the rest of the details first.
As for the reveal...
He isn't planning to withhold the grenades no matter who Hiyori brings up. The damn resort's proven dangerous to its own guests multiple times. He wouldn't have bothered teaching the idol martial arts if he thought the place was safe. Hiyori's not the kind of person to throw a grenade (or a brick) at someone for no reason.
Sitting in silence, watching the other boy debate over his thoughts, Bakugo wrestles with impatience prickling under his skin. Wanting him to spit out the damn name clashes with a grumpy understanding of tact. Is Hiyori stalling because he thinks Bakugo's going to be hurt? Is the guilty party someone the blonde knows? Tch, if so, that's his business to deal with. He asked or Hiyori's sake, not his own.
His answer comes. Bakugo's expression doesn't change, hard and focused, brows furrowed and sharp eyes narrowed. For a few seconds, silent reigns. Until he clicks his tongue in annoyance and stands up.]
So that's what he did. [Shoving his hands into his pockets, the blonde heads for his kitchen to refill his glass. No explosion, no yelling. Only a growling, hard voice.] I already figured he did something like that.
[Esikko had mentioned unsavory actions in the past, and killing before, but Bakugo never asked for the details. He didn't want to know. Hearing Esikko's killed someone in the resort isn't a surprise. He isn't gonna ask for details here either. He'd like to know if it was in self-defense or sadistic malice, but... not his damn business.]
You think he'll try to harm you? [The important part right now is Hiyori.]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
no subject
Date: 6/13/25 21:41 (UTC)You could just say thanks!
[But he expected this much. Typical awkward Baku-kun.]
I don't like to carry anything heavier than a chopstick. That's why it's so handy to have Jun-kun around~♪
[Said shamelessly.
His eyes wander up and down the Ace hall as Bakugo takes the platter off him. Bakugo's new home, huh? But he's not the only Ace around, and Hiyori wouldn't want to run into one of the other ones he knows. He starts walking in the direction Bakugo came from.]
Now that you're a so-called "face card," you might as well get used to luxury. Though I guess you were a Queen once upon a time. You probably like "Ace" more since it sounds manlier, right?
no subject
Date: 6/14/25 01:40 (UTC)You're gonna let it get warm out here!
[And retreats to his room in a huff. Given the size of those double doors, it's gonna be an impressive suite. Bakugo slips his shoes off in the foyer, expecting Hiyori to do the same. There's a small set of cube-like cubbies for visitors' shoes and guest slippers (and yes, they are quite clean and cared for).]
Is he finally out of the hospital?
[Bakugo's still never met the guy, despite being closer to Hiyori for a long time now. His suite's thankfully not near the elevator, since he doesn't want to deal with it dinging every time people come or go from the hall. But given the quality of the suite, he never hears it anyways.]
Aa. [Shut up about the "Queen" did, Parrot. Hmph.] The Ace is a sort of wild card too. When the ranks swapped, Aces switched with sevens and eights instead. [And despite being the 1 in some games, the 13 in other games, the Aces rank below Kings and Queens in the Peacock. It's a strangely flexible rank.]
no subject
Date: 6/14/25 17:19 (UTC)[Which they then proceed to do.
In response to the "finally out of the hospital" comment:]
What hospital? Jun-kun's a healthy growing boy! Though I don't think he's grown too much recently...
[
One day they'll have a three-person thread together. Maybe. ... possibly.Hiyori is never going to shut up about Bakugo having been a Queen temporarily, alas. He's especially not going to shut up about it given that each and every reference earns him a funny response from Bakugo. If you don't want to be teased, then you gotta stop reacting in a funny way!
But for now, it's off to visit his Ace suite. Hiyori looks around the foyer and is suitably impressed by what he sees; his suite, of course, doesn't have any sort of "welcome area." Only a small space at the door to kick off one's shoes.]
Is that how it worked? I know I didn't get to be an Ace. I got downgraded to a 7! Which was just sad, since they didn't let me have marshmallows in my cocoa! "Those are reserved for 8s and above," they said! Remember that nonsense?
[Hence the sushi-slash-cocoa party they had. After taking off his shoes, Hiyori wanders off into the next area, taking a look at that, too.]
Anyway, this seems like a nice place. And this time, you get to hold onto it...♪ Any plans to throw a housewarming party? I'm sure the staff will be happy to help out. You can treat them like minions! ♪
no subject
Date: 6/15/25 00:57 (UTC)[Good to know he's healthy then. Mr. Mystery.
DAMMIT!! FORGET HIS QUEENSHIP AND RESPECT HIS AWESOME ACE!! Being a Queen was annoying given all the people running at him and the suite being a stupid ass little town. Way too much space for one person! Even if he let some people stay there to avoid their own rank drop. The Ace suits him better, and the King or Queen little more than a rank away if he ever wants to go the full step. (He likely will not.)
One day, his "funny" reaction is gonna be a blast to the face!
And impressive foyer leads to a grand living area with a massive kitchen and impressive-sized island in the middle. Everything is within reach from the center, letting him go from hot (stove) to cold (sink) to space (counter) on either side. And other spaces as well, but they can explore those later. Bakugo sets the gift on the island for now.]
You went from an eight to a seven, right? [With the Ace itself being either a seven or an eight when it swapped. Another element of the rank's random/flexible nature. Yeah, he remembers the marshmallows.]
Hell no. If people wanna come see, they can ask. [Did Hiyori really think Bakugo-- master of dodging his own birthday --would want to throw his own party? Hilarious.] Here.
[And whoosh goes a package of mini marshmallows Bakugo had in the cupboard. Specifically for when Hiyori came over.]
no subject
Date: 6/15/25 22:42 (UTC)[But that's the end of the hospital discussion.
Massive kitchens with impressive islands are not an unfamiliar sight, given that he hails from a wealthy noble family. It's a definite upgrade over his own suite though, and not a huge downgrade over the temporary Queen suite. Hiyori leans back against the center island, peering up at the high cabinets before he turns his attention back on Bakugo and nods in response to the question.]
That's what happened! And now I'm a so-called 8 again. Which beats being a 7, since at least you get marshmallows come wintertime, but certainly isn't as cushy as being your rank. You're not the only person who's gone from a low rank to a sky-high one recently.
[He thinks about Topaz and Leona... and Esikko, who once implied to him that he became an Ace through unusual means but refused to explain how. However.
Remembering him at all makes his chest hurt and his blood boil. It's not unrelated to why he came over here, and his shoulders sag as a heavy feeling comes over him. Before he can linger on that feeling too long, though, Bakugo tosses a package of marshmallows his way, which he catches instinctively.]
Hm—?
[He examines the object for a moment, and then his expression brightens.]
Ah, so you've developed a taste for them! Unless you keep some on-hand just for when I come over? That's so thoughtful of you...♪
[Hiyori, don't make him regret being nice to you...!]
no subject
Date: 6/16/25 02:25 (UTC)[Some IC mixing OOC confusion. We'll cut this bit on the DVD.][Right, Hiyori came from a wealthy family. This should be more up his alley, something he's familiar with. Bakugo found the Queen suite ridiculous, while the Ace suite is somewhat less ridiculous. Plenty of space, plenty of rooms, plenty of options. He still has adjustments and orders to make to really turn the place into something of his own, but he's getting there, slowly but surely. At least everything is neat and clean.]
Oh yeah? How many do you know of? [He only knew of two, Esikko and someone he's not gonna mention. Bad history. Hiyori can keep his names a secret if he wants; Bakugo's not gonna begrudge him since he's half not willing to say either.
Red eyes narrow slightly when he notices the idol's shoulders slump. He can guess why, given the guy's current rank and what he's used to, plus how he's required to get it in this stupid place. Not gonna get into that right now. Here, have some sugar and cheer up.
Nice reflexes, as usual.]
Don't make a big deal out of it, Parrot. You want the chocolate or not? [Because he did indeed keep some on hand for when Hiyori comes over.]
no subject
Date: 6/16/25 15:34 (UTC)[Aka by sleeping around.
And yes, he's implying he knows Bakugo might not have earned his rank upgrade the "normal" way, either. Maybe he did; he did seem determined to clear his deck, and Hiyori knows he's gotten some cards recently (go ahead, ask how he knows!). But Hiyori is observant, and he's pretty sure some low-ranked guests have found a way to speedrun their status climb. One person all-but-confirmed it for him.
Not that he's terrribly jealous. Though he'd like a kitchen and a nicer suite, having a middling rank affords certain advantages, such as decreased attention from the House. His rank has never been a priority, and it's not what weighs on his mind now. He came here for self-defense weapons, after all.
But, well. There's nothing to say he can't enjoy some cocoa before he gets his grenades. He didn't expect it, but he's sincerely touched that Bakugo keeps chocolate on-hand, too. For a moment it feels like the heavy burden on his heart has been lifted, and he smiles.]
Of course! It can be another cocoa-and-sushi party~♪
[He takes his marshmallow bag and starts to walk off again.]
Since I'm the guest and you're the host, I'll go relax on the couch while I wait.
no subject
Date: 6/16/25 19:04 (UTC)[As much as it irks him Hiyori's implying he didn't "earn" his rank, he can't exactly challenge him. One of them was indeed earned though an event's prize, but the other was given to him for his birthday. Enough for him to put the two together and make his gamble. A gamble he spent researching in the background for several months. His speculate speedrun isn't a speculation at all. All of which paid off, along with the expected gag order.
He's NOT asking how Hiyori knows he got cards! Anyone who's been here more than a month means they've been sleeping around and decidedly not getting kicked out of the resort for noncompliance. Hmph!
Two people he knows prefer the lower ranks, one even got himself demoted and liked it. Guess they have their benefits too. Bakugo intends to use his rank more to help people than because he wants some cushy digs.]
You'll be here a lot longer if you want me to make sushi. [He doesn't have any ready-made on hand, but has the ingredients. For now, he's getting the milk and preparing the hot chocolate for Hiyori. Hot chocolate in summer. Gross...]
If you wanna change the window scenery, the panel's on the wall to the right-most window.
[He's got it set to show a school campus, as if looking out from a dorm room.]
no subject
Date: 6/17/25 13:07 (UTC)[He complains.
But it's not a very serious complaint, when he knows he hasn't been playing the game and his rank was never low to start with.
It's also a lie since he actually does have a +1 rank token sitting around. I just haven't used it yet.]But congrats on moving up in the world. I'm sure your suite was a lot shabbier than mine, so this must feel like sweet relief. And now whenever we want to meet up, I can just head to your suite! I'll have plenty of room to kick back and relax, and you'll have plenty of room to cook for us! ♪
[Yep. He's treating Bakugo like a personal chef. Talk about entitlement!]
I just gave you sushi!
[That's what he says when Bakugo complains about his sushi-and-cocoa idea. Not that he expects Bakugo to sacrifice too much of the platter when it was a gift for him to enjoy. In any case, Hiyori skips out of the room, still having himself a look around—and still loudly making commentary, because that's what he always does.]
Baku-kun misses school, huh?
[He says in response to the directive about the window scenery.]
It's nice, but so far your suite's not as personalized as I would have thought! I don't see much hero stuff, grenades, violently clashing colors, action-y things, and other things boys your age seem to love! Whereas Weiss-chan's suite looked exactly like "her," and Nami-chan has her own beach resort. I do like the temperature better, though. Weiss-chan's suite was too cold for me, and Nami-chan's was somewhat hot. Compared to their suites, yours is just right...♪
[He's still Goldilocks, apparently.]
no subject
Date: 6/17/25 23:16 (UTC)[Non-serious complaint taken seriously. Who's surprised? Bakugo had always wanted to change his rank, pissed at being stuck so low when he was so damn awesome. But his stubbornness about playing the game and his pride against someone offering to change it for him meant he stayed where he was until he earned his change himself.
Plus I didn't "get" how the card point system worked for a long ass time, and Bakugo's age made getting some cards difficult.]Tch. It's a hotel room. Only an idiot couldn't take care of a room that size. [He took great pride in making his small space suitable, neat, and strong. You wouldn't think his Rank 3 room was "shabby" like some people bitched about basement rooms. Whoever gets his previous room is gonna be miles ahead of his or her neighbor.]
Haa?! I'm not your personal chef! You wanna eat, you'll work for it! [Straight up denied! As he's busy preparing hot chocolate for Hiyori on the stove.
WOW NOT ME GETTING MY THREADS MIXED UP!!]I said if I made it!
[He'll be putting that platter right down between the two of them to eat off of. Sushi doesn't exactly keep the best in the fridge for more than a day or two. The kitchen faces the living area, so it's not like Hiyori has to vanish out of sight to go enjoy the scenery. A large dining area is nearby, with doors to other rooms elsewhere.]
Shut up. [He doesn't "miss" school. (Yes he fucking does; he's a prisoner!) Bakugo scoffs at the note of his suite's lack of personalizing.] Aa. I need to plan out what I want it to look like, then put in with the front desk for the changes. I'm not gonna make the request until I've got it perfect.
[Bakugo gives him a strange look at his spouting expectations and comparisons.]
What the hell kind of nerd's room do you think I have?!
no subject
Date: 6/19/25 04:04 (UTC)[He's just jerking his chain. He knows it doesn't work like that.
Happens to the best of us!He ignores Bakugo's claim that he won't cook for him—maybe not that often, but he's already cooked for him once. Or baked for him, rather: Hiyori hasn't forgotten the quiche and apple tarts. Thoughtful gifts, from a surprisingly thoughtful boy. Even if he's also rude, yell-y, explode-y, and got way too carried away inside the animatronic dragon thing... which he has no plans to ever talk about. Moving on!]
So that's how it worked in your case, huh? Nami-chan said the her Queen suite was just like that when she got there. As though they peered into her heart and figured out exactly what she wanted.
[Which is more than a bit creepy. He looks around the room a bit more before making himself comfortable on whatever sofa is in the living area, only smiling in response to that last incredulous-sounding question.]
Specifically, a "hero nerd's"! That's sort of what you are, no? Just like Jun-kun's a muscle-training junkie, so he had all these posters of powerlifters and athletes hanging on his wall at home. And, of course, another poster of someone very important to him.
no subject
Date: 6/19/25 23:26 (UTC)[In his own suite?! What a rude ass guest!! Hiyori can choke on his marshmallows and die! Bastard.
Odds are he'll bake for him again if there's a good enough reason. Likely if the guy spends the night, Bakugo will make a similar dish for dinner or breakfast. Depends on if he feels like it. Kind of like now, wooden spoon rotating around the pot's insides as chocolate liquid and cocoa powders fuse together in sweetened milk. Hiyori gets the entire pot this time; Bakugo's not planning on drinking sugary heat in the middle of summer. He'll be sticking with lemonade.]
Aa. Mine's similar to that. [And gestures to the right, showing a bunch of gold and exotic luxury furniture all over the dining room. An opulent drench of wealth to make any decent guy feel uncomfortable as fuck.] Some people's are changed when they get there, others have to put in at the front desk.
[Bakugo would prefer the latter, so he has time to do what he wants rather than the resort jumping into his head and trying to decide whether he wants to shape his suite to look like his parents' house, U.A. dormitory, a hero agency, or a modern neat Japanese apartment.
Pretty large sectional sofa.]
I don't have anything like that, dammit! [He does in his room at his parents' house...] You want your chocolate hot or cooled?
no subject
Date: 6/21/25 17:37 (UTC)[Esikko said he couldn't tell back when Hiyori asked. Now that they've had their falling out, he can't try asking him again. Not that he cares too much about his own rank, though it would be nice to have a bigger place. A kitchen for Jun to cook in, a comfortable lounge to invite friends into, a massive closet to hold his extensive wardrobe...
But not the gold furniture. He's seen more than enough of that to last a lifetime, just from walking around the Peacock's halls and lobby, so he eyes all that with a critical eye.]
So that's how it works, huh?
[Idly, he wonders why it differs from person to person. Maybe Queens and Kings don't have to put in the request form and Aces and Jacks do?]
Well, that explains a lot. I can't see you choosing that tacky gold stuff. I might like the finer things, but at this point I'm sick to death of gold.
[And peacocks and sexual imagery and bird references. Unless the reference is to his own birds, who are cute and wonderful. Anyway,]
What sort of drink is cooled cocoa? Unless you mean one of those "chocolate milkshakes." I've never had one, but I've heard they have ice cream! And ice cream is perfect for almost-summer! But if you don't have that on-hand, I'll go with hot chocolate, since your suite is air-conditioned anyway.
no subject
Date: 6/22/25 01:10 (UTC)[More or less agreeing that his silence isn't his own idea. But considering Hiyori's comment about the bottom to the top, maybe he's getting an idea of how it might work. Given the idol's rank, however, he's basically trapped in the middle. It's no more or less difficult for him to reach the upper ranks going either way.
But if he wants a higher rank, he could probably get some rank-ups through the events or partners? That Bakugo can talk about. Though it should be as obvious at the gold furniture in his suite.]
Aa. [Or maybe the peacock did look into his head and realized no matter what decision it made, Bakugo would get pissed off HE didn't make the decision, and would be back later to demand it change his suite to his "new" preferences. There are three to pick from in his head after all... parents', school's, personal's.]
No shit. I want something like a modern Japanese apartment, with wood and stone. [Similar to his parents' house, but with his own unique touches. Again, making it difficult because he wants it just right. Besides, if he has the option, he should make use of it.]
You can't just whip up a milkshake! [That requires machinery to do, and even going at milk + ice cream with a hand blender isn't going to work very well. He meant cooling the chocolate down, not a full on smoothie. Bakugo ladles some of the finished drink into a mug, then brings it to Hiyori with the marshmallows.] Here.
no subject
Date: 6/23/25 13:00 (UTC)He doesn't ask. Curious as he is, he doesn't want to push his luck or get Bakugo in trouble with the "damn bird."]
Guess not!
[That's all he says, before letting the subject drop and heading to the big cushy sofa in the lounge area.]
Marrying the traditional and the modern, huh? Sounds nice!
[He continues to chat about Bakugo's design preferences. Then, regarding the milkshake:]
You can do anything you want, no? You're an Ace now. And most importantly, you're Baku-kun! The great exploding dynamite god! ♪
[Yes, he's making fun of that name again. But no, he does not actually expect Bakugo to whip him up a milkshake. When Bakugo brings him the cocoa, he smiles, reaching out both hands to accept the mug.]
Thanks. ♪
[At least he's properly appreciative.]
no subject
Date: 6/24/25 00:20 (UTC)That said, just because he isn't allowed to talk about it doesn't mean he can't get around the gag order in other ways. After all, Bakugo talked to four people about the ranking and received clues in little slips without breaking agreements or endangering the other. No one said shit about guests figuring it out on their own.]
Aa. My parents' house was similar. [Considering how large the home was, Bakugo grew up used to being in nice surroundings. He'll eventually get his suite all straightened out.]
Great Explosion Murder God Dynamight! [Get it straight!] I'm not gonna bend the laws of reality, dumbass Parrot!
[Even if Hiyori's pulling his leg on it, the sheer audacity to use his hero name and new rank as rationale deserves getting his head slammed! Too bad all he's getting is his cup of hot chocolate and sweet pillows. Aka marshmallows.]
no subject
Date: 6/24/25 13:18 (UTC)"My parent's house." Something in Hiyori's eyes softens just a tad when Bakugo says those words. He won't call Bakugo out on missing home, since he probably wouldn't admit it and it's kind of like rubbing salt into a wound. But he understands because he feels that way, too. Even if he misses the ES dorms a tad more than he misses his (massive, expensive) family home.]
Right, right! What you said!
[Explosive, exploding—same difference, clearly! Though he also left out the "murder" part, which... well.
After what just happened, he's not eager to talk about the murder part. Even to tease.
So he doesn't harp on the nickname and instead takes a sip of his hot cocoa. Hiyori's always interested in trying new things, even if he can be a bit finnicky and fussy. One fan recommended trying ice cream when it's cold out, so he did that once. By the same token, hot chocolate in the summer is something he's willing to try. Since Bakugo's suite is air-conditioned, it's no big deal. And of course, he remembered marshmallows! He lowers his mug after taking a sip—]
Hot!
[... but it doesn't appear he scalded himself or anything. And he's quick to smile again.]
But it tastes nice and chocolatey.
[And then he shifts the mug over to one hand, so he can hold two fingers up with his other.]
There are two things I wanted to discuss. Did you want to hear the nicer thing first, or the less-nice thing?
no subject
Date: 6/24/25 20:54 (UTC)Tch. Choke on a marshmallow.
[So grumpy. He leave Hiyori with his drink and sweets and returns to the kitchen to get something of his own. No hot chocolate for him. Too warm for that crap. Even if his suite is nicely air conditioned.
Despite it being in his hero name, Bakugo doesn't make murder much a topic either.
The refrigerator door shuts with a humming "shlumph" and telltale rattle of drinks inside.] It's hot chocolate. What the hell did you think it was gonna taste like?
[One of those "cute guys state the obvious" things he's pretty sure idols do all the time.]
Don't care. Spit 'em out and I'll ask about the one I want.
no subject
Date: 6/25/25 03:53 (UTC)[Both the telling-him-to-choke thing and the "What the hell did you think it was gonna taste like?" thing. It's true, part of his job is being cute while stating the obvious, but if Bakugo can't appreciate that, then it's on him!
As for the last bit, his brow furrows.]
Those two subjects have nothing to do with each other, which is why I didn't want to talk about them together, but fine! The nice thing was about an event my friend is planning. It's time for her annual "community meal!" She's looking for people who can cook, so I told her about your quiche and apple tarts!
[(We'll just say this thread takes place after this post went up, so I don't have to start a second one where he tells him about the community meal.)]
But as for the other thing, well...
[His face crumples a bit as he says this next bit.]
I won't name any names, but I learned about something horrible someone here did. I was disgusted by it, and by how he'd lied to me, so I said something rather rude to him. I don't think he'll go after me or send someone else, but that's why I wanted to stock up on more of those self-defense weapons.
no subject
Date: 6/26/25 00:28 (UTC)Community meal? [Bakugo arches a brow, not having heard of something like that before. What the hell kind of "community" do they even have in this place? It's a fucking resort, they're prisoners, nothing about this is a community! Wait- His eyes narrow and brows furrow.] You better not've volunteered me.
[He wouldn't put it past Hiyori to do so! Even if the idol's usually respective of other people's permissions. He's gonna have to make another quiche and tart or the guy, since he's so thrilled with the one-off gift.
(Too bad, he's gonna have to tell him about it anyways, cause this guy doesn't
and by that i mean his playerhardly ever checks the network.)Bakugo's irritation morphs into something serious and more focused when Hiyori brings up the negative. Despite what the idol says, the hero only has one question to kick off the discussion.]
Who?
[He doesn't give a shit about someone's dirty secret or their horrible act. But if said person is potentially threatening someone he does give more than a shit about, different story.]
no subject
Date: 6/26/25 04:38 (UTC)[There, he's made his pitch!
And now onto the less-fun part. The question, straight and to the point, makes his expression grow even more tense. Of course he gets why he asked, but...]
Are you sure you want to know?
[His eyes are serious.]
Don't just say yes. I want you to really think about it. I know you're the rough-and-tough type, but even you have friends here. How would you feel if you learned a terrible truth about one of them? Not just something unpleasant, but something that shattered any chance of you ever seeing them in a good light. It all concerns some incidents you weren't involved with, so strictly speaking, you didn't need to know. Considering all that, would you still want to?
no subject
Date: 6/26/25 23:37 (UTC)Why the hell would I go to something like that?
[Totally gonna have to do more than make a pitch, Hiyori. This guy won't even go out shopping with his classmates for dorm supplies. Calls it "stupid" and bails. No different here. He can get food easily enough.
Maybe return to it when they're done with the problem topic. Bakugo's expression remains the same even as Hiyori attempts to double-check his question. He's already made his decision and thought of the consequences. Wouldn't have demanded to know the answer if he hadn't weighed the choice.
Is it fitting Bakugo lances right through Hiyori's concerns and instead rationalizes it from another angle?]
If you're worried enough to arm yourself, then spit it out.
[He doesn't want to know for himself, or for the guilty party. He wants to know for Hiyori's safety. Wouldn't have cared enough to ask, but when the idol mentioned he was wary of this person trying to harm him... that changes things. Bakugo's not someone to take revenge for someone else or hunt down a problem to preemptively nip it in the bud without knowing the entire story and having good reason to do so.
And this wouldn't be the first time he's learned someone he knew made a shit decision. He'll be the judge of what light he sees someone else in, thanks.]
1/2
Date: 6/27/25 11:21 (UTC)[He says it like it should be obvious. Sorry, but he's an extravert through and through...]
I guess free things aren't as big a draw for you now that you're an Ace, but you should come and sample Jun-kun's cooking. And if you contribute your own cooking, that'll be a chance to prove how versatile you are! "I didn't know he could cook!" everyone will say. "He's a man with hidden talents!" Why, if your food is good enough, you might just make some new fans! ♪
[Yep. He's trying hard to sell this. He hasn't promised Topaz he'd recruit him (nor has he mentioned Bakugo's name to her), but he still thinks it's a good idea!]
2/2
Date: 6/27/25 11:25 (UTC)His lips thin out and he goes quiet, staring down into his cocoa cup. He knew what Bakugo's response would be: he's the kind of tough guy who thinks he can handle hearing anything, no doubt. And it makes sense not to want to supply him with grenades without knowing who he's worried will attack him.
In truth, the answer is no one. Esikko claimed he wasn't a threat. But can he trust that when the other boy has been lying to him for so long? And can he trust that no one else in his circle will go after him, either, when the people Esikko surrounds himself with all sound pretty unstable too?
But there are other reasons Hiyori doesn't want to tell, and one of them, though he doesn't want to admit it, is this: Esikko and Bakugo are friends, aren't they? Perhaps not officially, but they know each other and get along well enough. That was the impression he got. It's stupid, after everything—he shouldn't care about Esikko at all anymore. But there's a part of him would feel bad about ruining that friendship, if indeed Bakugo did decide to cut ties with Esikko, too.
In the end, that feeling of guilt isn't enough to stop him. If Esikko didn't want to be the kind of person people warn each other about in hushed whispers, then he shouldn't have done what he did. Still Hiyori's eyes are downcast as he comes out with the truth, voice heavy with exhaustion and sadness.]
Fine. It was Esikko-kun. He committed two murders, and he forced someone to do something bad to the one of the corpses. But please don't make me explain what that was, alright?
no subject
Date: 6/28/25 03:28 (UTC)[Vetted free food isn't a horrible outing; he's gone to restaurants in the resort if people are with him and vouch the fare's safe. But the "chance" to chat instantly makes him mentally scowl. Great, someone wants him to socialize with a bunch of people he doesn't know who probably want to say dumb crap. Ugh... He's not gonna waste his time.
... but Hiyori's inviting him. Damn social extrovert.
Bakugo's expression wrinkles in irritation. HE SEES WHAT YOU'RE TRYING TO DO HERE, DAMMIT! He's not stupid! Cajoling him with his pride and skill! And don't think he missed that damn backhanded compliment. Doesn't want "fans" in this perverted place. He has enough trouble with the bullshit coming with his new rank.]
If I feel like it! What's the theme?
[That's all he's gonna express for now! If he bothers doing this, he's gonna make the best damn dish anyone's seen! Hiyori has to tell him the rest of the details first.
As for the reveal...
He isn't planning to withhold the grenades no matter who Hiyori brings up. The damn resort's proven dangerous to its own guests multiple times. He wouldn't have bothered teaching the idol martial arts if he thought the place was safe. Hiyori's not the kind of person to throw a grenade (or a brick) at someone for no reason.
Sitting in silence, watching the other boy debate over his thoughts, Bakugo wrestles with impatience prickling under his skin. Wanting him to spit out the damn name clashes with a grumpy understanding of tact. Is Hiyori stalling because he thinks Bakugo's going to be hurt? Is the guilty party someone the blonde knows? Tch, if so, that's his business to deal with. He asked or Hiyori's sake, not his own.
His answer comes. Bakugo's expression doesn't change, hard and focused, brows furrowed and sharp eyes narrowed. For a few seconds, silent reigns. Until he clicks his tongue in annoyance and stands up.]
So that's what he did. [Shoving his hands into his pockets, the blonde heads for his kitchen to refill his glass. No explosion, no yelling. Only a growling, hard voice.] I already figured he did something like that.
[Esikko had mentioned unsavory actions in the past, and killing before, but Bakugo never asked for the details. He didn't want to know. Hearing Esikko's killed someone in the resort isn't a surprise. He isn't gonna ask for details here either. He'd like to know if it was in self-defense or sadistic malice, but... not his damn business.]
You think he'll try to harm you? [The important part right now is Hiyori.]
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