hatesdeerstalkers | 15 strangers r7 | Week 3, Late Thursday (Kaito)

15 strangers r7 | Week 3, Late Thursday (Kaito)

[The stage was set.

If no one came into the casino tonight, then that, as they say, was that. Moriarty would remove the wedges from the slot machine, and leave - hoping that someone else had done the deed to spare the lives of innocents.

But, the Casino itself was a place for someone to forget the world around them - in here, nothing more than a game room, but still holding the allure of having everything be stress free, for a time. And he had decided to also allow what would happen tonight up to luck, as it seemed...fitting.

He would not attempt to win this - he knew he was walking towards his death of his own volition...and merely wondered why it felt so familiar.

So when someone actually steps through the door, he steels himself -

- and sees someone he absolutely did not want to be chosen for his plans.]

K-Kaito?

[His voice trembles for a moment, before he quickly masters his emotions, putting on a genial smile like always.]

...Haha, I must confess, I didn't think I'd see you tonight. What are you doing up here, and so late?

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[Kaito wasn't trying to focus in on anything in particular. He'd wandered in mostly due to the fact that this was kind of an...oddly nostalgic environment, in some regard. He remembered losing in gambling to Ryoma, Kokichi getting excited, Shuichi staring at the entire scene in awe while he just--well, he lost, so he wasn't happy at the time, but...

It seemed so simple back then.

Now he was just planning to use a slot machine over and over. He hardly expected to win anything - what would happen if he did? Probably something stupid. Zero might come out, do a silly dance for him, then taze him. Or something. Zero works in mysterious ways.

He then heard a voice, and he looked up.]

Oh. Hey, Moriarty. Uh, sir.

I couldn't sleep. So I kinda just wanted to--do somethin' mindless, I guess. Heh. And I didn't wanna bug anyone else to try to get things off my mind, so...

Edited 2023-06-29 23:55 (UTC)

[God. He - he needed to get Kaito out of there. Kaito did not deserve the death he'd planned, and he was far too young. Not that killing someone older was no less awful, but at least they'd understand, in some way, the urgency of it.

Keeping calm, Moriarty nodded.]

Ah, yes...while I understand that, perhaps getting yourself into gambling as a way to relieve stress isn't the best, hm?

Well, yeah, I guess...that's kinda hypocritical to say if you're comin' here to do the same thing, though, innit?

[Man. He really did wanna be everyone's dad, huh? It was nice, and he almost felt like turning back - the whole 'respect your elders' side of him getting the better of him, but still...]

For all you know, I merely came up here to play Solitaire!

[He does have the cards in front of him in a spider solitaire pattern - more out of stress and wanting to look innocent for his potential victim - but the more this gets drawn out, the likelier the chance of someone else coming in and ruining his plans.

How? How does he get Kaito away?]

But I was finishing up for the night. Though...I suppose if you truly want to, I cannot stop you. Just keep it to one or two games, hm?

[...Maybe just letting him do a little and leaving would be better.]

Oh. That's fun, too. My gramps used to play that game sometimes!

[Kaito chuckles.]

I'll do a couple of spins, see if I win the special Zero Lucky Seven. Then I'm out. Promise. Thanks, Pops.

[He spins around and starts to head for the slot machine.]

[There's a moment where everything seems to slow down, as he sees Kaito head for the slot machine, and his mind whirs.

He could just...let it happen. Let Kaito grab the machine, and let it fall on him. Finish him off like he'd planned, and walk away. It would be simple, laughably so. It would still be his fault for the murder, of course, but it would be relatively quick, all things considered.

Yes, logically, this was the correct course of action. And as the Old Spider - the Napoleon of Crime - he should let it happen, and not feel a single thing for it.

...and yet.

and yet.

He's bodily in front of Kaito before he can even really comprehend what he's doing, arms flung out and a roar coming out of his mouth-]

NO!

[ - because, despite himself, despite everything the world says about him...

Perhaps, in the end, he really does have a Good core in him somewhere.]

[Kaito freezes.]

...H--Hey...?

[He blinks in surprise.]

[And then he assesses the situation. For all that can be said about Kaito, he's emotions first, logic second, he's loud, he's overconfident...but he's a good judge of character.

He gives Moriarty a look--a look that isn't quite confused, but it is questioning.]

What's going on, man? You're on edge. And you just stopped me like that, so...

[He shifts on his feet.]

...This all got to you, huh?

[There's another pause...before Moriarty just....slumps, putting a hand to his face almost in a despairing way.

How could he have done this? The answer was right there, the equation nearly solved on it's own, but -

No. No, he...in the end, he couldn't do it.

He just....couldn't. Not To Kaito, who has been nothing but a kind young man - perhaps a touch dim, but what hot blooded young man wasn't such a thing at his age?

So, he thinks. And in the end, there is only one solution, even if he is hated for his confession.]

[He straightens up, looking Kaito directly in the eyes - his gray-blue gaze almost piercing in the light, like he could see straight to the core of the man in front of him.]

...No.

I have trapped the Slot Machine you were about to use, Kaito.

[He should be able to figure out the rest.]

...It's 'cause of that Ritsuka girl, huh?

[He sighs.]

Was that, like...your first daughter?

[He shrugs.]

I can't blame you, honestly. I could say I wasn't considerin' it, but I'd be a liar. I considered maybe doing it for Maki. Take out someone no one would, like, weep too many tears about, accept it all, then...let everyone else win.

But... [He couldn't do that to Akane.] ...I got convinced out of it.

[Moriarty hesitates...before slowly shaking his head.]

It was - not just because of Ritsuka, no. I...became privy to Aoi's close one...a young baby girl.

[Would you let a baby die if you could help it, Kaito?]

He is, in a sense, from a few years ahead of Akane - so things have happened for him that have not yet happened for her, in her perspective.

[...]

I was going to let fate decide my victim - though I had hoped only the older sorts would be up here. Or Hermes.

[Since yeah, he uh. Dooooesn't think anyone would be too upset about hermes dying.]

...A baby...?

[like. whose baby. whose baby???

~~if it's akane's with some other guy, HE might seriously cry.~~]

...

Well, yeah. If one of those died, it...it wouldn't be a big deal. But you know Akane would be sad, right? ...Either way, there's no way to win.

[He sighs.]

You know I can't let you go through with this either way. We should just--dismantle that or somethin'. Put a Do Not Touch sign on it. Maybe someone will touch it for kicks.

[with this group, that wouldn't shock him]

Yes. A baby who would die in a horrible way come Sunday...along with all of our loved ones.

[Though he does laugh at the mention of rigging a do not touch sign - yeah, eventually someone would touch it.

Still, it's more of grim laughter before he sighs.]

...I know Akane would be sad. I am - well aware that by doing this, I am breaking her trust. I am - breaking everyone's trust. But I see no other alternative.

[...No. That isn't quite true. There is one thing he could do.]

...Beyond ending my own life and making it appear as if a murder has taken place, that is. But I have no idea if Zero would accept such an outcome, nor can I risk damning everyone else at trial.

Edited 2023-06-30 02:46 (UTC)

...

Then it'll have to be me, I guess.

I don't want...I don't want everyone to get hurt, either, but I can't just...

[It's the Trolley Problem. Just like Akane discussed with him. That took him out of it, now he's getting put back in.]

...

Goddammit! This isn't fair, it's...

[He thinks about the Maki doll. He thinks about Maki. And that just about breaks him.]

I'll do it. I've....I've come back from death before. What's another, huh...? Just...

If we're gonna do this, maybe let me leave a note first? Or somethin'?

You've come back from death before?

[They'd never actually had that conversation, nor was he listening whenever Kaito talked about it. Whoops.

Though, hilariously enough, he actually looks...conflicted about this, and about Kaito's sudden change in demenor.]

And - are you certain? I know this may be hypocritical of me to ask, but - you truly needn't do it. I...I did not want for you to die, especially.

[He closes his eyes, shaking his head.]

I suppose this is what leaving the most important piece up to fate gets you, but...no. We should discuss specifics and other such things in a more private location - if you are still willing.

...I was in a killing game before. I died then, too.

[He solumnly admits.]

Well, what's the other option? I keep going in this, knowing you're going to pull something on someone who has actually more to lose? What if Akane came in next? Or Ritsu? Someone like that...

[He rubs the back of his head.]

...We can talk more in my room. My roommate was John, and he's gone now, obviously, so.

...Very well.

[At the least, he can't help but feel chagrined that Kaito is more logical about this than he is - god, has he truly lost his touch? Something in him says he shouldn't be so attached, and yet...

...Well. He'd think on it later.]

Your room...I can quickly get us down there, though it will have to be the hallway in front of it, as I have never been in there before.

That's--oh. Right. The powers, huh?

[Kaito nods.]

Yeah, sure. Go ahead. I'm kinda curious to try this, anyway.

[He nods, though he holds out a gloved hand.]

I'm decently sure you'll need to be in contact with me in some manner for this to work, so if you wouldn't mind?

[Once Kaito has hung onto him in whatever way he does, Moriarty uses his power - causing a portal just big enough for the two of them to suddenly appear into existence in front of them without a sound. A soft light flares around it's circumference, and he doesn't hesitate to step through -

Where they find themselves in the hallway, nearby Kaito's cabin.]

...Here we are.

[Kaito holds his hand, then...whoa. He gets to work with portals. They teleport through the portal, stepping through and...]

Man! You got such a cool power! I'm jealous! I only get to like, dodge things if they're thrown at me...

[He opens the door and walks in.]

Alright, c'mon in. Close the door behind ya.

Protection from Projectiles is a decently 'cool' power as is, Kaito. Though it is useful, I must admit!

[Like, it was practically Cu Chullain's bread and butter, and he was basically Irish Hercules.

He steps in, letting the door shut behind them and locking them in a soundproof chamber - yet again allowing the levity he had to fall.]

...So. What do you propose we do, then, Kaito? I do not have any qualms with being killed, if that is what's needed.

[No time for sorrow or regret - now, there was only planning.

Planning on who would die first.]

Edited 2023-06-30 04:32 (UTC)

[Man...tell him about Cu Chullain in Deathland, Moriarty. He'll think he's cool as fuck.

But then the levity falls again.]

...

It's not gonna be you. It's gonna be me. I can't go out there and look into Akane's eyes and admit that I...she talked me back from it before. I'm going to write her a note. We'll save that kid, we'll save Maki, and this'll just be another temporary journey away for the Luminary of the Stars. Nothin' I ain't used to.

[He says, while taking out a pad and pen and beginning to write a note.

Hey, Akane.

I'm...shit. Even if I say I'm sorry this happened, I don't know if it'll mean that much. But I...I am. I'm sorry. This probably hurt you a lot. Like, a lot a lot. And we had so much to do together, so many things to see, and now it's kind of...all gone.

I'm sorry, my beautiful violet. You deserve so much better.

But...I can promise you this, okay? We've fought our way outta death before. I'll do it again. I'll find a way. Don't do anything silly, 'cause it won't be long, and I'll be back, and I'll take you for that picnic under the stars, just like I promised!!!

...If you still wanna go, that is. I wouldn't blame you for bein' mad.

Just stay strong. You're stronger than this, you're stronger than anyone.

Keep fighting. Believe in me believing in you.

I'll be back soon, okay?

Kaito

P.S: all my stuff is yours. This is also kind of a will.]

...I want you to keep this note I'm writing. Keep it until the end of the trial. Then give it to Akane.

[He can't help but admire Kaito's determination to not kill - if only he had that desire, Then perhaps neither of them would be in this situation.]

...I will, but...would you hear out a suggestion of mine?

[He can't just...do this, so easily. Not that he will write his own thoughts down for others, as that would go against what he planned to do at the trial.

...But, perhaps...]

...Could we make a fight of this? One without powers, as both of ours would lead to too long a battle. Both to leave more evidence, and...

[He pauses, before closing his eyes.]

...So that we fight a duel as Gentlemen. One enters, and one leaves, as it should be. Regardless of who that might be.

[Kaito thinks on it.] Well...I guess we could. Y'gonna toss down a glove or somethin'?

[He rubs the back of his neck.] No matter what happens, I'm not really gonna be mad, though. We're in this together.

You're just doin' the...proper dad thing and tryin' to kill your daughter's boyfriend. Heh.

[Honestly, he just looks at Kaito, clearly shocked...before bursting into uproarious laughter.

Ah, What a shame. Truly. But at the very least, they are united in this audacity together, a willing victim and murderer to the end.]

WAHAHAHAHAHA! Ah, Kaito - it seems you're asking me to make this duel official!

[He grins, his humor back, as he peels off his right glove.]

Very well, then, you miscreant. I can no longer ignore your overtures on my daughter's purity! Such audacity must be answered, for her honor!

[He flings the glove at Kaito's chest, pointing like an actor upon a stage.]

Therefore, I challenge you! To a duel with swords, in the casino, near midnight! Pick up that glove, if you dare accept!

[Kaito can't help it. He ends up laughing too.]

Pffffhahaha. Alright! [He takes the glove, holding it up in a clenched fist.] I can't deny a challenge like that! I'll fight you to prove I'm worthy of her affection - and to you that I can hold my own and protect her when no one else may!

We shall see who the strongest amongst us is!

[A beat.]

Though if we get swords, we may wanna be careful. Cubey is in there. We're gonna have to aim that portal pretty, uh, exactly. I fed him earlier today, though, so he may be asleep...

Who do you think you're speaking to, hm? I've had plenty of experience with using my power.

[Since, uh. How do you think he kept sneaking up on people without them noticing?]

That being said, the bear does seem to like you, doesn't he? Perhaps he wouldn't mind if you went behind him to grab two swords, then.

[He's not going to try, that's for sure. He also clears his throat.]

Ah, but before we go, I would like my glove back. If you would be so kind, as it will help with a lack of fingerprints.

[Kaito shrugs, fair enough.]

I just thought you were one of those people with that kinda gift, you know? The kind that kinda just accidentally sneaks up on people and just kinda--makes 'em all fight or flight.

[He hands the glove back.]

Yeah, I don't think Cubey will mind too much. If you win, can you make sure someone keeps feeding him? ...He's a good bear.

[He hops up, handing the note over.] There's my will. You gonna make up anything, or...?

No, sadly - I have no degree of Presence Consealment.

[Not that Kaito would know that's a skill name, but!]

My boy - I already said I do not intend to win, so asking me such a thing is pointless. However, I can request it during the vote at the very least.

[He takes it, putting it safely in a pocket in his vest - the same one a timepiece would normally go into while shaking his head.]

No, I will not. I will either die a victim without saying anything...or go out at trial as the villain who killed a young man in his prime, declaring his Evil Intent to the world.

[He smiles, a bit wryly.]

Besides, there are written notes under my pillow in my room, in case I ever died for whatever reason. That will be enough.

Well, yeah, I meant win this fair duel, though! For all ya know, I could still get the better of ya, Pops! I ain't gonna go down easy since you requested a challenge!!!

[He's fired up now!]

But alright. We got that taken care of, then.

[He cracks his knuckles.]

Let's get our swords.

Ah - my mistake, then. Yes, I suppose we should - I do expect you not to disappoint me, at the very least!

[Another hand held out.]

If you'll allow me?

[And in another flash of portal lights and a few steps in, they are in the Weapon Room....where a certain polar bear lies sleeping, as they portaled to the door.

Moriarty seems a little tired, but he tries not to show it.]

...There, now then - work your...magic, won't you?

[Kaito makes a 'shhh' motion over his mouth. He walks into the weapon room, takes two swords, then heads out. Cubey will need new food in the morning.]

Alright. Back to the casino!

[But when they get there--]

...Y'look tired, actually. If y'don't mind me sayin'. Maybe we should rest a little before we do this thing? I'd hate to fight ya not at your best.

[By the time they get back to the casino, he is actually pretty fucking tired. More mentally than physically, but a little of both.

But he bristles at the suggestion anyway, because noooo don't notice and call him out on it!!]

I'm - perfectly fine, you young upstart! I can fight at full force right...right here!

[...And then he goes and sits down at a card table.]

I'm merely giving you the chance to say prayers to whatever you worship, if you worship anything at all! Nothing more!

[........

Yeah. Yeah he's being a tsundere.]

[Kaito chuckles, but he just shrugs.]

Alright. Lord's got my back. Maybe. Dunno if I'm a pious enough man.

[He glances to the cards.]

Wanna play a little bit before we start?

[He gives a hmph, but eventually nods.]

...Very well, I suppose so.

Given it was luck that brought us both here tonight...how about if we play a spot of poker?

[He's already grabbing a deck and shuffling the cards.]

Sounds fun! Deal me in!

[Thumbs up! It's almost like he's ignoring the gravity of the situation, but...maybe he is.]

[It's alright, they can both ignore it for a few hands. Though weirdly enough, Moriarty seems to be the luckier one of the two, but not because he's cheating or anything like that. Small chat about the game, maybe a little bit of drama, the normal.

Though, eventually, he does speak up in a more serious tone.]

...I must confess - what I told you before, about why I am doing this....it is not the entire story.

[He pauses.]

I raise.

[With nonexistent money, but it's the thought that counts. Poker is inherently a bluffing game, after all.]

Then what is?

[He pauses.]

Call.

In part, it is for the captives - that much was not a lie.

Pass.

[They show their hands, one of them wins, and another hand is dealt.]

But it is also for those that will remain. You remember our last trial, do you not?

[He looks at his hand, discards two cards, and then draws two.]

We were...to frankly put it, a mess. I'll admit I did not help in the slightest in that regard, to my shame. But, if they are to face Zero in the coming weeks, then they must learn how to properly do a trial.

...People got naked. Not gonna lie, Akane's brother? Kind of got creepy. Kinda hated that. [Sighs.] But yeah, it was a mess. I wanted to keep things on track, but...

Even my killing game before this had more organization to it. But that game had a Shuichi. This one...

[He looks at his cards.]

Raise. This one doesn't. Unless we maybe push one of 'em onto glory. Maybe this'll help...maybe.

...Aoi definitely needs discipline, that much is for certain.

[Said exactly like the old man he is, though there's a fondness to it.]

Or by giving them a reason to hate, and thus pushing them towards determination. We are both well-liked enough that either of our deaths should make them take it seriously.

Call.

If I survive...I intend to be such a villain, as I said before. Hatred and spite is one of the great motivators, and if they can solve it...

....Well. Perhaps I'm merely being arrogant, but I wish to believe it would give them a greater chance against our captor himself, having already faced down one embodiment of Evil.

If I survive, there's-- [there's something familiar about this entire conversation. Kaito can't put his finger on it, but it's hauntingly familiar in some way.] ...There's no way I'd go down easy. I won't ever be able to be a capable villain. That's not in my style. But...a fallen hero? Maybe.

["Give yourself some credit. You could be a great villain if you wanted to." That's what Kokichi would probably say, anyway.

He sighs.]

But we'll have to see. I want them to beat this captor, too. I want them to just...be the hero that I probably can't be now.

A fallen hero...

[He laughs, though it's a bit sad.]

I have no doubt you would fall without a fight, Kaito. And that in of itself would be good enough.

[Unlike Kaito's friend, he can't say that. All he can do is offer assurance in his own way, as he lifts his cards.]

Well. I believe I've recovered enough at this point - let's make this the final hand, shall we?

Show your cards!

[And when he reveals his hand - It's basically garbage. A measly pair - fitting for that there was no way for him to win, regardless of the outcome.]

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15 strangers r7 | Week 3, Late Thursday (Kaito)

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Cw: Suicidal ideation

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