( THE TEACHER )

[abhoth]

It is midnight on Tuesday when you find yourself suddenly awake. Your roommate, should they still be alive, is blissfully asleep as your body moves on its own and heads to the outdoor pool and dining area. The smell of cooked meat invades your senses as you approach, and once you are close enough, you'll find Craftly enjoying a beautifully prepared meal. Across from him, another identical plate sits, waiting for you to dig in. Craftly raises his cup, filled to the brim with wine, and beckons you to sit down. "Greetings, Teacher." It seems like it is finally time for the two of you to have a conversation. Welcome, Teacher! As you must know by now, your character has the chance to either protect one (1) character or hang them out to dry. This is an either/or situation, so you can only pick one no matter how much your character may want to do otherwise. To summarize the key aspects from this role's rulebook: Your character must pick one person each week, though the effect will kick in during the following week. They will not be counted as a culprit or accomplice if someone who is made vulnerable dies, but they will be rewarded with a Clue Token. Similarly, they will receive one Clue Token if the person they protected that week is targeted by any other resident. Good job, Teacher! New top levels will be created in this post for each passing week. We hope you have fun with your role! ( quick navigation ) ic rulebook | locations | statuses | room assignments private conversations | ic profiles | graveyard | full navigation

Comments

WEEK 1

[abhoth]

[This week's dish consists of a deliciously cooked steak with squash gratin on the side. Bon appetit.]

[godly]

[The question of how and where he going to be on Tuesday is answered, quite pointedly, with how his feet move on their own. Towards the outdoor pool, towards the dining area. Something cooking wafts in his direction, catching in his nose. Steak, his mind clarifies on its own, an automatic, idle thought.

Light slides into his seat, eyebrow raised. Something settles into his features, a seriousness that had been otherwise exempt while in the company of others. The plate before him is eyed briefly, and while his stomach dictates that he indulge himself in it, his mind corrects this impulse. For now.]

The part of "teacher" is a very interesting one, you know. Choosing, at my whim, whose life to make more difficult. Or less so.

[Not even a greeting. Only a hand at the table, fingers rapping at the surface.]

Why me?

[abhoth]

Why not? [ There's a passive shrug as Craftly samples his own meal. The twist of tentacles grasping to cutlery is that of a master — he's seemingly human and requires a lavish meal, much like anyone else it seems. ] If you plan to ask such questions, perhaps I should have provided some macaroni and cheese. Very childish.

[ But... ]

You have a duty here, Mister Yagami. It's up to you which path you take. You're use to such power, yes?

[godly]

Tch.

[He hackles threaten to rise at the prodding at his pride. Childish? Please. It was only natural to ask such a question, to see if there were expectations of him that remained unclear. He frowns, unimpressed.]

Don't patronize me.

[His fingers stop, though, at the admission of being used to such power. The implication that Craftly knew of his... inclinations back home was not completely surprising. His profile card, with a skill listed as murder, hinted at this days prior.

Fine, no point in playing coy.]

Yes. But my power back home is absolute. Death is guaranteed. And while I'm allowed creativity in that, this is a bit more subtle. It's early yet. My choice today will be nothing more than an experiment -- no underlying motivations, no good will or bad will. Just a test.

You're fine with that?

[abhoth]

Then don't assume I'm giving you all special treatment. Roles are roles. You were lucky.

[ He says that with utter sincerity, almost bitterness in his tone. ]

Just as we can't predict how well our orchards will do in the upcoming season, we can't predict how your choice will influence this whole ordeal. Only you will be aware of what the next week could bring.

[ A thought chew, he stops — almost energetically as he dabs his mouth with his napkin. ]

Mmph — yes, yes, of course! I'm not asking you to jump in without your reservations. Test all you want, Mister Yagami.

[godly]

Roles. So then I'm not the only one who's been granted a boon.

[Another point which isn't surprising. If the blank section of his rulebook filled itself in, why wouldn't anyone else's do the same? It's something that doesn't settle well with him, though; just another layer of unknowns, when Light is the sort of person who wants to exude control over everything and everyone around him.

He picks up his utensils, and the first thing he does is cut into his steak. Might as well eat and recharge while he's here; it would be foolish not to take advantage of absolutely everything offered to him.]

Though that's almost to be expected. This really is turning out to be nothing more than a game. [He clicks his tongue.] I have another question before I decide. What happens if my choice does see itself to fruition? How do I benefit from this, other than possessing the power to tug at the strings from behind the curtain?

[abhoth]

You'll find out about those soon, I assure you.

[ Craftly dives into his side, chewing as Light talks and only stopping to make sure he is not making a mess. He sets his silverware down for a moment. ]

I do hate the word 'game', but that sadly sums up this nicely. It has its disposable pawns, the knights whom swear to protect those most valuable on the board — the wildcards and more. You are the only one able to see moves before they're made. Cherish it.

[ As he asks this question, he points his knife to him with a smug grin. ]

You will be rewarded handsomely. There is a currency here that is coveted. One that can benefit you or those you ally with during trials. Of course, there are conditions to be made. Not every choice will yield this.

[godly]

[A piece of cut steak is pierced with his fork. He takes the bite, chewing as Craftly explains. The metaphor isn't lost on Light. It's easier to view all of this like a chess board, and though he can't move the pieces directly like he's often used to, he can at least influence each play. He should be flattered, really, to possess this kind of foresight.

But he isn't. It's a tool to be wielded. He only needs to figure out the most effective way to do so.]

A currency. That's interesting. [And if he asks about it, he knows he'll be met with another non-answer. So he doesn't bother, he only notes that it's important for now to see his choices be "successful" -- whether that be through violent means, or by offering safety.]

I see. [Craftly's grin makes his own smile rise, a little sharp at the edges.]

Then no point in delaying this any further. I've already chosen someone.

[A pause for dramatic effect.]

Let's go with Akane Kurashiki. I want her to be more susceptible to danger. It's easier to view cause and effect that way, from my standpoint at least. Unbiased and random.

[abhoth]

Oh?

[ Color him so shocked he almost chokes on his steak. What a dick.

Craftly gains his composure, straightening his suit jacket a bit. He folds his napkin as if he's done with his meal. For the most part, he is. ]

Straight to the just desserts, I see.

[ You're lucky Craftly likes sweets. ]

Mmm. A delicious choice. For now, a name is all I require. However, in the future, who knows?

[ is he fucking with light. ]

Do you have questions for me, aside from the pitiful 'why me'?

[godly]

[Welcome to Light Yagami, population: 1. Capital: Douchebaggery.

Also he can't tell if you're fucking with him, this is annoying.]

If more's required at a later date, it'd be prudent for you to tell me ahead of time.

[gosh]

Other than that? I request that you let me finish my meal, and in the meanwhile explain what you meant when you referred to "knights" on this figurative chessboard. Assuming you can disclose that information to me.

[Food is important to a growing serial killer, okay.]

[abhoth]

[ He gets to finish his meal, Craftly is far from a rude host. ]

You have my word on that. But -

Surely you see the knights already, yes? The ones who want to stop this before blood is shed? This bunch of optimistic hooligans are sure to provide problems to you. Observing them is the only clue to find which people may suffer from some hero complex.

[godly]

[Then he'll be eating during their talk, eyes occasionally lifting back up to Craftly when he responds.]

...Yes. These so-called knights are overreaching; it's obvious that murders will happen. You even said as much outright.

[Ah, now he almost shrugs, actually starting to entertain a conversation with the man.]

There's nothing wrong with wanting to stop what one might believe to be an unforgivable act. But then there's naïveté; they're wasting their time. At least it's easy enough to blend in with these types of "hooligans". If it's beneficial to me, I'll play both sides.

[abhoth]

[ Stop trying to have eye sex with him, Light. Oh my God?

Craftly sits there, as unnerved as he usually is. ]

It's clear that their demeanor outwardly is that suited for best intentions, but one must recall how most find hell paved.

[ He smiles a bit. ]

I usually offer advice to people sitting across from me - as much as my lips permit - but... perhaps it's not needed. [ He pauses, tilting his head back to Light. ] You know, they say the King is the most important piece of the board. The one worth protecting. I beg to differ. Without the Pawns, who fight so valiantly for their King's cause... he is nothing more than a vulnerable fraud. By having the faith in the weaker, a King is lifted up from shambles. Your tactic sounds useful.

[godly]

[w/e don't pretend you don't enjoy eye sex with this cold, soulless, a little bit insane gaze

With good intentions. Advice Light probably should have taken a long time ago back home, but he's a bit too far gone for that now.

He clinks his fork against his plate in wayward amusement.]

Adaptability is key. Being too single-minded will be the literal death of everyone here. But-- the King, or even the Queen, is still just a game piece. The role most comfortable to me is the player.

But I'll work with what I'm given. As I said-- adaptability.

[abhoth]

Then you'll do well here or perish in your own arrogance. There is no in-between, I'm afraid.

[ Craftly is quick to snatch his drink for the evening, lifting it up to inspect it. ]

Here's to making the most of your time here, Mister Yagami?

[ Will you toast with him? ]

[godly]

[He doesn't consider himself arrogant, of course. Only competent.]

Don't worry about me, Craftly-san. [He drops an honorific this time.] Just enjoy the show.

[And he will -- his own glass is lifted, clinking against the other.]

To the game, and all its pieces.

WEEK 2

[abhoth]

[This week's dish is lemony shrimp along with a simple risotto on the side.]

[godly]

[As was the case last week, Light appears -- not that he has much choice in the matter. And just like last time, he slides into his seat, eying the plate. A lot's happened since then and now. He's had time to consider his options, though it's difficult, given he hasn't seen the results of his last "pick" just yet. The experiment, as it were, is still on-going.

He picks up his utensils, skewering a shrimp.]

Apples for my menu listing? Really?

[He's referring to that rather on-the-nose role description, ok. He'll get to business after that.]

[abhoth]

What? I thought it was cute.

[ Craftly says with a heavy sigh. Some people truly don't admire his hard work!!! ]

If you're unsatisfied, perhaps you can ask someone to switch with you.

[godly]

Cute? You haven't done your research, then, if you think I'm the one who has an obsession with apples.

[His mind flickers to Ryuk again. He'd find this entire situation so hilarious, and it's weird not to hear the laughing of the shinigami rumbling behind him, over his shoulder.]

I don't need to switch. Is that even an option? [He hadn't even realized it was possible to do so? Unless Craftly is just fucking with him.] I just thought I'd point out that your sense of humor leaves something to be desired.

[abhoth]

[ Craftly is absolutely fucking with him. Please love his word play. :( ]

Perhaps you should leave that on a ratings card. If I'm being a terrible host, it's in my right to want to improve. Tell me, shall I begin making jokes of the deep fried nature? Perhaps how hope is being dangled on a string? I can be very funny if given the chance, Mister Yagami.

[ Craftly has a deep growl to his voice, mainly due to how tiring the week is already. ]

[godly]

I don't think anyone will appreciate your jokes right now, after that horror of an execution. [The one that drew all of the attention to him HE'S A LITTLE SALTY ABOUT THAT OK.

He takes a bite or two, then:] I'll leave you a one-star rating.

[But.]

Failed humor or not, that's not why I'm here, is it? You want a name.

[abhoth]

Don't worry, chum. If you find yourself to be the one ending someone's life - it will be your own method in the future. Unfortunately pen and paper is quite useless here.

[ Womp womp. Craftly is testy today, wonder why? He cuts into his meal, taking a thoughtful chew before dabbing his napkin to his lips. ]

Mmm - mmm. Fresh is always better - [ HE REALLY LIKES HIS FOOD LET HIM LIVE. ] yes, yes. A name is correct. One that will either feel our scorn and receive your blessing. Last week was a test and while my lips are tight - I do hope you've seen your handiwork begin.

[godly]

[It continues to be a little disturbing how much Craftly knows about his adventures as Kira back home. Perhaps even more so because the tentacle-man appears to be... what? In a bad mood today? The somewhat resentful side of Light thinks good, but he leashes his tongue on the matter.]

...

[Fine, a name, then. He can provide that easily.] Velvet Crowe. No blessing from me, only scorn. Let's see if harm befalls her.

[WILL LIGHT EVER CHOSE TO NOT CONDEMN SOMEONE the world may never know. Truthfully, though, he had considered protection instead, specifically where Yukina and Kaiba were concerned. But for now, he thinks it's more prudent to continue to whittle down the game and its survivors as quickly as possible. There are too many moving parts than he likes; why not take out a cog or two and simplify matters?]

I've been keeping an eye on my "handiwork", yes. Observing is all I plan to do regarding that for now. [A beat.] Does this please you? It seems like your mood needs improving today, Craftly-san.

[abhoth]

[ Oh, that's a thing. The name is told so quickly and Craftly let's out a chuckle. ]

Well, well. Consider it done. Miss Velvet will be at your mercy, then.

[ He won't ask about strategy - he doesn't really care. ]

Mmmm? No. A fine bottle of wine chilled to the exact perfect temperature and goat cheese spread on pita is what pleases me. This just ensures you're doing your role appropriately. For the time being, my mood will improve upon the checking out of more guests. I await to see how Miss Velvet will react.