week 4, tuesday

[18x0]

[Akane has been spending some time in the lobby, lying on the couch to keep her sprained ankle elevated and waiting for a moment when none of the other guests happen to be around. Once the moment arrives, she gets up and approaches Craftly at the front desk.]

Do you have a moment? I'd like to ask you about a few things.

Comments

[abhoth]

I always have a moment for our guests, Akane.

[He was organizing some files, but he puts them down for the time being. He'll then gesture down the hallway, towards where the kitchen is located.]

Let us take this to another location, one where there's no danger of curious ears. I assume you don't intend to ask me about my day, after all.

[18x0]

Yes, that would be preferable. Though, since you brought it up... how has your day been?

[She gives him a bright smile as they head down the hallway, slowly because she's still limping a tiny bit.]

[abhoth]

Quite enjoyable, thank you. I would ask how your day has been, but I can't imagine it's been as pleasant.

[With. That limp and all. If Akane needs crutches or a leg brace she should... probably request it from one of the faceless men? Love yourself.

Either way, assuming it's earlier than 11:00 PM — he leads her to the lounge. The bartender locks the door behind them, before moving back to the bar to serve Carftly's usual. It's... a margarita. Akane is free to ask for her own drink, if she's in the mood.]

Here we are. You have my undivided attention.

[18x0]

It's been fine enough, actually. Better than yesterday.

[She'll be fine she just needs a little rest!!

Anyway, Akane just gets a glass of water. She's sticking to her decision to never drink again, thank you very much.]

Alright, so... I'm familiar with the rules of the game, of course. They're clear enough. However, I was wondering about incentives.

[abhoth]

Incentives? [wow akane loosen up] I believe those were quite clear, as well... But perhaps there are some uncertainties. What do you wish to know?

[18x0]

Just how much can we ask for? It's obvious that the ones running the game are capable of a great deal, but surely even they have limitations.

[abhoth]

Hah! Does a god have a limitation, Akane? The answer is no, they do not. Everything you desire, be it the one you love or the salvation of your world, is at your fingertips. All you must do is pay the price.

[18x0]

The salvation of my world... I see.

[That is a very tempting prize.]

So I could even ask for, say, the revival of someone who has died?

[abhoth]

That's correct, miss. Whatever you ask for, my employers can grant it. Their powers are beyond human comprehension.

[18x0]

And that includes people who have been killed here in Yuggoth?

[abhoth]

No. Only those from your world. The departed of this realm will remain where they are until the end of this game. Then, they will be as lively as they used to be.

[18x0]

[wAIT WHAT]

They will? Really?

[abhoth]

Of course. It would be quite dangerous if the flow of time were altered because one of our departed residents were erased from the history of their world, don't you think?

[18x0]

Well, yes, but...

[She covers her mouth, suddenly speechless. This is so far beyond what she'd expected.]

This changes everything.

[abhoth]

Does it truly, Akane?

[18x0]

Of course it does! If everyone gets to go back afterwards... I have nothing to lose.

[abhoth]

[He smiles at that, crooked.]

Then I take it you've decided to partake.

[18x0]

[She pauses, the sudden burst of energy fading a little, and sighs.]

I have the chance to save six billion people, Craftly. Regardless of the price, I can't refuse to take it.

[abhoth]

Ah, now that's the spirit.

[Just. Finishes his own drink.]

Unfortunately, we're far too overbooked for this week. Perhaps the next week, Akane, should your desire to save six billion lives be as strong as it is today... You will pay my employer's price.

[18x0]

Perhaps.

[She offers him a tight, joyless smile and stands up.]

Thank you answering my questions. Let's talk again some other time.

[abhoth]

Of course. I will be waiting until then.