Danganronpa Class Swap 2 - Jabberwock Island - Heroman3003 (2024)

Chapter 1: Intro

Chapter Text

???: Hey...

???: Are you alright?

???: You should probably get up...

???: I know this whole thing is pretty weird for you...

???: No, it’s weird for all of us.

???: But you can’t just stay like this.

Why...

What is happening? Why is this happening?

It was impossible. Unbelievable. Utterly incomprehensible.

My brain felt like a mush. This was too much to process even for me... I needed to gather my thoughts. To remember how I even got here... That’s right. Just refocus and think of how it all played out...

***

This day was very different from my normal day.

I mean, there I was, standing in the urban environment, in front of a giant building, about to go in completely unprepared for anything that might be waiting inside. Hope’s Peak Academy. I wasn’t sure it was a good idea. It’d be so different from everything I knew, but... Some part of me thought that it was for the best. I have long learned to trust my instincts. They really do sometimes know better.

Hope’s Peak Academy... Inviting someone like me. I seriously doubted that a person like that would be at all welcome in there. I mean... a prestigious school for elite best of the best? Crème de la crème? The school that keeps releasing the best artists, scientists, businessmen and athletes into the world... Wants someone of my kind? That was surprising in its own right. Although if I was an Ultimate in their eyes, I guess they really did. But I should start by introducing myself first.

My name is Mukuro Ikusaba. I’m... still not entirely sure why I’m standing here now, in front of this place. It feels... completely alien. Or maybe it’s just me who is alien to something like that. I never imagined going into a high school, and now I was going to go into one of the best in the world? What was even going through my head through my head through my head my head my head head head head head head head head—a person who would never fit in normal society. And yet I—

*̷͔͎̐̾*̵̲̓*̸̣̳̎͘

Huh.

There is a door. A classroom door. In front of me.

I need to go inside this door. Yes. That is what I need to do. What I have to do.

So I approach the door. And open it.

...

It was a classroom. That much was obvious. And there was quite... a colorful cast of characters in there. A quick headcount gave me exact number – fifteen. Sixteen, counting me.

A guy spoke up... He looked pretty nondescript, aside from his Messy Hair.

Messy Hair: Oh, hey, someone else has arrived!

Next two people to speak up were other two guys. One was spectacularly Fat and the other looked like some sort of Hall Monitor.

Fat Boy: Counting her, that makes sixteen... Seems like a nice even number to cut off on!

Hall Monitor: Lady, while I am unaware of exact time, you are the last to arrive! You should put more effort in being punctual!

More people spoke up after that. A girl who looked more like a pretty Doll, a Sportsy looking girl and a Redhead guy.

Doll: Come on now, I’m sure she’s not yet late. After all, nobody showed up yet.

Sportsy Girl: Yeah, I’m sure she didn’t mean to come here last!

Redhead: Come on dude, give us a break, you gave me same crap when I arrived, and we weren’t even into double digits yet.

Wait... those people. They must be...

Mukuro: You guys... Are freshmen too, right?

Guy who looked like he had a giant Porcupine for hair spoke up next, followed by a rich-looking Snob.

Porcupine: Yep! We sure are!

Snob: You seem rather slow to catch on.

More people raised their voice. A girl with light hair and very Snow Queen-like aura and a pompadour guy who looked like a stereotypical Delinquent.

Snow Queen: I do believe everyone who was supposed to arrive has arrived now.

Delinquent: Huh? And what the hell makes you say that?

Snow Queen: The classroom has sixteen desks. There are sixteen people in the room. It makes perfect sense.

Suddenly that big burly guy that looks like an Ogre started speaking in surprisingly soft voice, followed by the luxuriously dressed Lolita girl.

Ogre: However, it appears that neither way we got here, nor way we can leave is clear yet.

Lolita: Indeed. And the window of opportunity created by our latest arrival is already lost.

I thought about what they said for a moment and quickly turned around, trying to force the door open. Despite my best efforts, it just wouldn’t budge...

Mukuro: Damn... It’s locked.

Lolita: It is pointless. We have all tried that.

Her comment was followed with two more. From the nervous-looking girl with Braids and a short timid girl who looked almost like a scared Bunny.

Braids: That m-means that we’re stuck here?!

Bunny: I just... hope someone comes soon...

Hall Monitor: As students, we should diligently wait for arrival of a teacher to give us further instructions.

Sportsy Girl: Hey, maybe you haven’t noticed, but something’s obviously strange about our situation! I mean, how did we even get into this classroom?

Porcupine: Through the door, right?

Snow Queen: That much is obvious. What’s more concerning, is the fact that none of us remember how we reached the door.

Messy Hair: Hey, that’s right... I don’t really remember that either.

Snob: You’re only realizing it now?

Braids: Oh god... What is this? This is definitely not normal.

Redhead: Yeah, there’s definitely something off about this, right?

Doll: Well, we can just hope for the best, right? That a teacher will come?

Delinquent: There better be some explanation to all this sh*t.

Ogre: Indeed. This is highly unusual.

Suddenly I heard the blonde girl who stayed silent the whole time speak up. She wasn’t even addressing anyone, just commenting out loud. She stood by the window, staring into it... And that voice. Could it have been... Her?

She: There’s something off about those windows...

Delinquent: f*cking seriously? We’re stuck in a weird-ass classroom and you’re admiring some sh*tty architecture?

???: Hey! No fighting your classmates!

That voice... it was so high-pitched and squeaky-sounding... It didn’t sound like anyone here. The Delinquent turned towards Fat Boy anyway.

Delinquent: The f*ck you say to me, fat*ss?!

Fat Boy: A-Ah, I may have a rather high vocal range, but that certainly wasn’t me saying that.

Delinquent: Then who the hell was it?!

???: It was me!

This time I could pinpoint the direction from which the voice was coming from, and not just me. Everyone looked over towards the teacher’s podium in the front of the classroom as something weird started to happen.

A colorful swirl. A pink swirl just appeared in the air, obstructing vision for a few moments and once it was gone, out of it and on top of the podium landed a big plush rabbit... angel... girl? With a magical wand? And then she was moving? This... this is ridiculous!

Sportsy Girls: Huh? What is this?

Bunny: It... looks like a stuffed toy...

???: That’s right! I am a squeezably soft stuffed animal!

Usami: Magical Miracle Girl ★ Usami. Aka, Usami!

Usami: I know that I don’t quite look like it, but I am actually your squeezably soft teacher.

Hall Monitor: What? That thing is... a teacher? That’s ridiculous!

Porcupine: Is this a trip? Am I on something right now? I quit that stuff a while ago!

Redhead: What the hell...?

Usami: Don’t you guys know what a rabbit is? It’s a squeezably soft animal!

Usami: And that’s what I am!

Fat Boy: A toy magical girl that walks and talks on its own? What is this?!

Snob: It obviously isn’t doing that on its own. Someone must be controlling it.

Snow Queen: I don’t believe that’s the important part.

Snow Queen: What is important is that you know what is happening here, do you not?

Usami: Of course! I am a lead teacher on this school trip of ours after all!

Snow Queen: School... trip?

Usami: An entire class of students going on a trip under kind observation of their teacher! A big event for any school year!

Mukuro: That’s not what she meant.

Usami: Now, let’s depart for the school trip!

Depart?

Suddenly the weird toy started waving her want up in the air. And... something started happening. The roof... There was a bright crack of light going through it... And then it widened and widened... Until it opened and all the walls fell, revealing the outside of the classroom.

We were on the beach. To reiterate. We were on the beach. The entire room was just a set piece. I could see the sky. I could see the sand. I could see the palm trees and sea birds in the distance. This was not supposed to be possible. Everyone else was looking around with same shocked expressions. And first to speak up was... her.

She: What the actual hell?!

Doll: How... How did we get here?!

Fat Boy: This is going beyond any measure of weird!

Usami: Hey, there’s no need to be so alarmed. Look around!

Usami: Calming ocean waves... Cool breeze... Warm sand...

Usami: Doesn’t it all feel nice? Just let it envelop you and wash away everything bad...

Ogre: Hold it. You still haven’t explained anything to us. Where are we?

Usami: By the sea of course!

Lolita: Ahem... That still does not explain the crux of the question. Why exactly are we by the sea?

Usami: The school trip just started, is all!

Messy Hair: But what about the Hope’s Peak Academy?

Delinquent: Yeah, weren’t we supposed to start attending it or some sh*t?

Usami: Oh... I see. You’re concerned about Hope’s Peak Academy? Well, the answer is simple! Just forget about it!

Usami: You’re on a school trip! You’re here to relax and have fun!

Hall Monitor: Relax and have fun?

Snow Queen: Forget about Hope’s Peak Academy?

Snob: Hey... what are you? Just what are you scheming?

Usami: Wha-what? I’m not scheming at all! I’m just doing this for everyone’s sakes!

Usami: I only wish that a bright hope can bloom as a result of this trip!

Usami: I’ve made sure that there is absolutely nothing dangerous on this island whatsoever!

Usami: It’s been prepared just for us and us alone, so you don’t have to worry at all!

Redhead: Are you saying we’re on some island?

Sportsy Girl: And it’s uninhabited to boot?

Bunny: But... why? Why were we brought here?

Delinquent: Does it even f*cking matter? I’ll f*cking kill that thing!

Usami: Please, don’t say stuff like that! Especially not the word ‘kill’! Violence of any kind is not allowed on this island!

Snob: Then... what is this “school trip” you mentioned? What do you intend for us to do on this island?

Usami: All righty! I’ll just make it clear for all of you now!

Usami: While you are enjoying a nice and pleasant vacation, the only thing I expect of you is to get along and reinforce your friendships.

Usami: That is the main purpose of Heart-Throbbing School Trip!

Snob: “Heart-Throbbing School Trip”...?

Usami: And this Heart-Throbbing School Trip... Is all of you guys’ homework!

Mukuro: Wait, I don’t understand, what the hell are you talking about?

She: Yeah! Where the hell is the catch?

But she ignored us...

Usami: Now... Let the Heart-Throbbing School Trip begin!

This... was the last nail in the coffin for my sanity. Suddenly appearing before a weird door... A classroom full of strangers... A moving, talking stuffed rabbit... Suddenly finding myself in the middle of a beach... And now Heart-Throbbing School Trip?

I was just overloaded. I couldn’t comprehend it. I couldn’t process it. None of it made any sense whatsoever...

And so, I stopped processing things entirely for a short while.

Dangan Island Swap – Huge Panic at the Heart-Throbbing School Trip?

Chapter 2: Prologue - Welcome to Dangan Island

Chapter Text

Prologue – Welcome to Dangan Island

Messy Hair: Hey...

Messy Hair: Are you alright?

Messy Hair: You should probably get up...

Messy Hair: I know this whole thing is pretty weird for you...

Messy Hair: No, it’s weird for all of us.

Messy Hair: But you can’t just stay like this.

Well... I remember now. That doesn’t make any of what happened make any more sense... But I guess I remember. Now... To actually try and figure out what in the world is happening...

I blinked and focused my eyes. There was the Messy Hair boy, looking at me with a slightly concerned expression. Looking down at me... That’s right, I was sitting on my knees for some reason... Probably lost balance and didn’t feel like getting up afterwards.

So, first obvious thing to do. Standing up. Okay, that was easy...

Messy Hair: Oh, great! I was just worried you’ve got a sunstroke or something...

Mukuro: No... I just zoned out for a bit. This whole situation is way too confusing...

Messy Hair: Yeah, it kind of is. Everyone else went off to explore the island and try to figure out what is even happening... But I realized you stay behind, so I came to check up on you.

Mukuro: I see...

I looked around the beach again. The water looked... real. The sand was definitely real... I think some got in my shoe. Eugh. The trees, the wind... Even the smell of ocean air. It definitely wasn’t some oversized facility that just looks like an island. It really was an island...

Other than the fact that we were on a tropical island all of a sudden, what caught my attention were a monitor stuck to a tree and a camera just standing there. No wires or anything... Remotely transmitting? Probably meant to oversee us in some way.

Messy Hair: Uhm... So, uh... Hey, how about I introduce myself?

Mukuro: Ah? Oh, sorry, I was just thinking. Go ahead.

Messy Hair: It seems like you do that a lot, huh?

Messy Hair: Anyway. My name is Makoto Naegi.

Makoto Naegi, Ultimate Lucky Student

Mukuro: Nice to meet you, Makoto. I’m Mukuro Ikusaba.

Makoto: Nice to meet you too.

Mukuro: ...

Makoto: ...I guess I’ll tell you about why I was chosen by Hope’s Peak?

Mukuro: Sure, go ahead.

Makoto: Well... I don’t actually have an Ultimate talent. Not in the same way all of you guys do.

Makoto: Apparently, Hope’s Peak just... held a lottery to pick an Ultimate Lucky Student and I won.

Mukuro: Huh... That does sound pretty lucky of you.

Makoto: I mean, it was lucky, but I’d never actually consider myself that lucky. I’m more unlucky than anything...

Mukuro: Then maybe you’re the Ultimate Unlucky Student? Winning the lottery did get you into this situation...

Makoto: I guess, but it doesn’t seem so bad so far.

Mukuro: Not so bad? Do you get kidnapped onto uninhabited islands that often?

Makoto: Well, it’s not quite like that. It seems to actually be perfectly safe and the food and shelter is all provided to us.

Makoto: You know, I think this might actually be a real school trip organized by Hope’s Peak.

Mukuro: On the first day?

Makoto: Uhh... Hope’s Peak has never been orthodox in their ways?

Mukuro: Uh-huh.

Makoto: Anyway. I wanted to ask... What is your Ultimate talent?

Mukuro: My talent?

Makoto: Yeah. I didn’t see anything about you on that message board I was checking... I mean, I was only checking it to see what kind of classmates I was going to have out of curiosity and—Wait, that doesn’t right either, let me rephrase that...

Makoto kept talking about some website dedicated to discussing Hope’s Peak and its students and how it’s not creepy or stalkerish at all and is absolutely normal... But my mind was drifting elsewhere...

My talent... My... talent...

Why... am I drawing a blank? Why can’t I recall anything... regarding my talent?

Do I... even have one? I had to, I was here after all... But why can’t I recall it?

What’s... wrong. What happened... Why...

Makoto: ...and, well, I know there have been incidents of doxing, but I swear—

Mukuro: I don’t remember.

Makoto: Huh?

Mukuro: My talent. I forgot it.

Makoto: Wait... seriously? Are you sure you don’t have a sunstroke?

Mukuro: I’m fine. I just... my head’s scrambled...

Makoto: Maybe we should get off the beach... I think getting some shadow would be nice for starters.

Makoto: You have been sitting there for a while. Maybe it’s just shock?

Mukuro: Shock?

Makoto: You know? Getting so surprised you black out on things?

Mukuro: I... I don’t know. I don’t understand...

Update!

Huh? Did that come from my pocket?

I reached in there and took out... a pad. Looked like some sort of student handbook...

Mukuro: What’s that? When did I get it?

Makoto: Oh, Usami was handing them out when she was explaining the Hope Fragments.

Mukuro: ...

Makoto: Right... zoned out... Well, basically, these are our student handbooks. They have all the relevant things to help us get around the island. They also allow us to collect ‘Hope Fragments’ from one another.

Mukuro: And what is a ‘Hope Fragment’?

Makoto: I’m not sure... It does sound nice though. You get them by making friends and getting closer with one another. And Usami also said that once everyone collects all Hope Fragments, we can all go home!

Mukuro: Wait, seriously? That rabbit thing seriously brought us here to make us... become friends? Is this like a reality TV dating show or something?

Makoto: I’m not sure... But that still sounds rather fun.

Mukuro: You’re pretty innocent, aren’t you, Makoto?

Makoto: Hey, what’s that supposed to mean?

Mukuro: You... don’t seem to be suspicious of this situation. At all.

Makoto: Oh... Well, I’m just trying to think positively, is all.

Mukuro: Anyway... You said we should get off the beach.

Makoto: Yeah. Actually, we should go around so that you can introduce yourself to everyone! I think I just got last of my first round of Hope Fragments.

Mukuro: I mean... Sure. If I’m gonna be stuck on this weird island, knowing who I’m stuck with would be good.

Makoto: Alright! Let’s get going then. I, uhh... Read up on everyone and their talents on that website... And I met them all myself already. Plus, if you do have a sunstroke, it wouldn’t be good for you to walk around alone.

Mukuro: I do not have a sunstroke. But... thanks. I think walking around with someone is safer anyway.

Makoto: Relax, Mukuro. The island is perfectly safe.

Mukuro: I’ll believe it when I see it...

***

Ranch

According to the map in the handbook, the island is actually a group of six islands connected by bridges. And only two, the Central and the First were available. Why one of the islands was called ‘First’, I had no clue.

Closest location to the beach to check out was... the Ranch. Or as the actual sign in front of it said, Usami Corral. There were two people there... Snow Queen and Porcupine. Porcupine was heartily trying to convince Snow Queen of something, but she just shook her head in disappointment. So he just stormed off to the other end of the ranch. Well, this was off to a good start...

Mukuro: Hey... guys...

Snow Queen: So, the sixteenth student arrives. I wondered where you were.

Mukuro: Hey, why am I the sixteenth student?

Snow Queen: You were the last to arrive to the classroom and you are the last student I am properly meeting.

Mukuro: Oh. I guess that makes sense.

Makoto: Hey, Kyoko. What was that with Hiro over there?

Snow Queen: Nothing worthwhile. Hopefully not a sunstroke. Anyway, I do think we should learn each other’s names. My name is Kyoko Kirigiri.

Kyoko Kirigiri, Ultimate Detective

Mukuro: I’m Mukuro Ikusaba. It’s nice to meet you, Kyoko.

Kyoko: So, what is your talent?

Makoto: Speaking of sunstrokes... Mukuro can’t quite remember hers...

Mukuro: Makoto!

Makoto: What? Wait, was I not supposed to say that? Sorry... I didn’t realize...

Mukuro: No, it’s fine. It just makes me sound like crazy when someone else has to say it for me.

Kyoko: Don’t remember your own talent... That is surprising. Most people here dedicated most of their life to their talent, in one way or another. And you simply forgot yours?

Mukuro: Yeah... I know it’s probably hard to believe, but... I really can’t pull a thing out of my memory that’s related to it...

Kyoko: I see. Well, you did seem to have some sort of internal breakdown when Usami was doing her announcements. Perhaps it’s just some short-term brain overload that will pass...

Mukuro: What about you? What’s your Ultimate talent?

Kyoko: Normally I prefer not to advertise or flaunt it. But we are going to be classmates for a long time, so you’ll have to find out eventually. I am the Ultimate Detective.

Mukuro: Huh... That sounds pretty cool.

Makoto: Right! And Kyoko’s been pretty good at keeping her talent down-low too. That message board didn’t have anything about her... Other than the rumors that Headmaster’s daughter would be attending.

Kyoko gave Makoto a stern glare.

Makoto: ...was I not supposed to say that either?

Kyoko: Sigh... No, it’s fine. Everyone will learn eventually. I just wished that I could explain it on my own terms, before anyone makes any assumptions about my connection to this School Trip ordeal.

Mukuro: And... what is that connection?

Kyoko: Simple. There isn’t any. Yes, Hope’s Peak Academy Headmaster is my father, however I have not seen him in years. I’m as much surprised as everyone else to have been transported onto this island.

She didn’t really look surprised. She looked pretty calm...

Makoto: Do you think your father has anything to do with it?

Kyoko: I don’t have enough evidence to make any conclusions yet. But if you’re asking for my opinion...

Kyoko: This sounds exactly like the kind of thing Hope’s Peak Academy and my father would pull.

Mukuro: Seriously?

Kyoko: Hope’s Peak has always been... unorthodox compared to normal high schools.

Makoto: Yeah. But that must mean that whatever is happening is perfectly fine, right?

Kyoko: Who knows? Again, I can’t make any concrete conclusions regarding our situation just yet.

Update!

Makoto: Hey, Mukuro, let’s go check up on Hiro.

Mukuro: Alright, sure...

Makoto led me to the Porcupine-haired guy.

Makoto: Hey, Hiro! You haven’t met Mukuro yet, right?

Porcupine: Oh? Oh, hey there! Will you at least believe me?

Mukuro: Huh? Believe you about what?

Porcupine: I’m telling you, it really happened! See this cow?

The gut pointed at the cow on the other side of the fence.

Porcupine: When I just came here, this cow was a chicken! That rabbit thing magically turned it into a cow! I saw it!

Makoto: What?

Mukuro: Uh-huh... And your name was...

Porcupine: I’m Yasuhiro Hagakure, although I’m fine with being called Hiro too.

Yasuhiro Hagakure, Ultimate Clairvoyant

Makoto: Hiro here is known as the Ultimate Clairvoyant. I heard he’s called Supernova between the psychics.

Yasuhiro: That’s right! It’s a title I earned rightfully! Have you seen the fourth season of the Psycompetition? I was the winner! Back then I was a bit cheesy, so I came up with a title. Didn’t think it’d stick tho.

Mukuro: Clairvoyant... Do you mean you actually can predict future?

Yasuhiro: That’s right! I even have certification of being at least 30% accurate!

Mukuro: That... doesn’t sound too good.

Yasuhiro: Hey, what do you know about fortune telling? 30% is great accuracy!

Kyoko: I’m actually inclined to agree with him, assuming he’s telling the truth.

Yasuhiro: Don’t you butt in! Wait, do butt in if that’s defending me.

Mukuro: I don’t get it. How is 30% great?

Kyoko: Don’t get me wrong. It is a horrible accuracy for a simple yes or no question. Even a coin flip is more precise.

Yasuhiro: Hey!

Kyoko: But Yasuhiro specializes in general predictions. Anyone can get 50% accuracy on questions like “will I find my love within next year?”. But do you think you can get question like “what will happen to me tomorrow?” with even 10% accuracy?

Mukuro: Well... When you put it like that, it almost sounds impressive. I kind of even want to give this fortune telling thing a shot.

Yasuhiro: Damn right! Now, I charge per session, all the tax and extra payments are available on my website and there are absolutely no refunds.

Kyoko: To note. Everything I said does only stand if his accuracy really is true. I do not have a way to verify that.

Mukuro: And it’s back to not being impressive.

Yasuhiro: Oh, come on!

Update!

Makoto: So, what were you two arguing about?

Kyoko: You could hardly call it an argument. Yasuhiro was simply trying to convince me that a chicken somehow turned into a cow through ‘magic’.

Right... he tried telling me the same thing. I quickly glanced at him... Well, he looked sane... Maybe a real sunstroke?

Kyoko: I had about the same reaction.

Yasuhiro: Come on, guys! What reason do I have to lie about this?

Makoto: No offense, Hiro... But you do know this sounds completely unbelievable, right?

Yasuhiro: Of course I know! And that’s why I’m not backing down till I get to the bottom of this mystery! Wait... does that mean if you made burgers from this cow, they’d be 100% chicken? It all makes sense now!

...I think I’ll just leave him to it, so I just gave a little wave and left, glancing back to make sure he’s not following. Whatever it is, it’s his problem and I don’t have to get involved. Makoto quickly realized that I was leaving and ran after me.

***

Hotel Grounds

Hotel Mirai... Future, huh? Well that’s a name with a lot of possible meanings. I guess this is where we are supposed to stay for duration of the School Trip. The hotel itself barely looked big enough, but there were cottages on both sides of the entrance. A quick count... Sixteen. Makes sense. What doesn’t make sense is complete lack of adults... And that rabbit thing doesn’t count.

Makoto: Hey, it looks like all girls are on one side and all boys are on the other.

Mukuro: Makes sense to separate them like that.

Makoto: Except Chihiro... She ended up on boys’ side. Probably because there are nine girls and seven boys...

Mukuro: Huh. That doesn’t quite sound right.

Makoto: I guess it wouldn’t be symmetrical otherwise?

Mukuro: Let’s just go meet the people around here.

Well... Let’s get the obnoxious one out of the way first. I approached that Snob in glasses. Hey, maybe it won’t be that bad?

Mukuro: Hello. I am Mukuro Ikusaba. And what’s your name?

Snob: Name’s Byakuya Togami.

Byakuya Togami, Ultimate Affluent Progeny

Byakuya: ...seems like that’s not enough. You. What is your talent.

Mukuro: Oh... Actually, well... I don’t remember. I think it may have been shock, but I forgot it.

Byakuya: ...seriously? What kind of absolute moron forgets their own talent?

Mukuro: What did you just call me?!

Byakuya: Exactly what I’m seeing. Whatever. It seems like this thing’s done. Get out of my sight.

Update!

Mukuro: Oh, I’m going to give you a piece of—

But before I could make a step closer, Makoto grabbed me by the arm and pulled me away from him. I let Makoto do it, but I could take that guy!

Makoto: Mukuro, it’s okay... Byakuya’s just... like that.

Mukuro: Well, if you didn’t stop me, I’d fix him right up and he’d stop being like that. So why?

Makoto: Well... it’s because of School Trip rules.

Mukuro: Rules?

Makoto: Did you not check the rules tab on your student handbook?

Mukuro: I didn’t check anything other than that I apparently have... four Hope Fragments now.

Makoto: Well, check the rules and you’ll see what I’m talking about.

I quickly went through the menus of the handbook and opened the rules...

Rule 1

Extreme violence is prohibited on this island. Please live peaceful and relaxing lives with your fellow students.

Rule 2

Be considerate of each other and work together to obtain Hope Fragments.

Rule 3

Littering is not allowed. Let us coexist with this island’s bountiful nature in “mutual prosperity”.

Rule 4

The lead teacher cannot directly interfere with the students. An exception to this rule is made if any student violates a rule.

I could see what Makoto meant by what he said. I almost broke Rule 1...

Mukuro: It’s a bit hard to be ‘peaceful and relaxed’ when there are assholes like him around. What’s his deal?

Makoto: Well, Byakuya’s known as the Ultimate Affluent Progeny. He’s the inheritor of his family’s massive gigantic conglomerate and, well... He did prove he has all skills necessary to control it in the future. He has an entire fortune purely on his own effort.

Mukuro: Since when is being rich a talent?

Makoto: I’m not entirely sure if that’s all his talent implies...

Mukuro: Whatever. Who’s next?

Well, on the other side of the pool was the Hall Monitor dude. After the last one, I preemptively let my hopes down.

Mukuro: Hey. I’m Mukuro Ikusaba. And who are you?

Hall Monitor: Greeting, Mukuro Ikusaba! My name is Kiyotaka Ishimaru! It is a great pleasure to meet you! And you can feel free to call me Taka.

Kiyotaka Ishimaru, Ultimate Moral Compass

Kiyotaka: I did not expect this to be an exception in institution as esteemed as Hope’s Peak Academy, but I have to salute the tidiness of your appearance, Mukuro!

Mukuro: Uh... thanks?

Makoto: You didn’t say anything like that to me when we were introducing each other...

Kiyotaka: That’s because your own appearance is opposite of tidy! Your outfit is very much unbecoming of a student, and your hair could definitively use a proper trim and styling!

Mukuro: Who cares? It’s not like it matters in our situation.

Kiyotaka: ‘Who cares?’ It seems I misjudged you greatly, Mukuro Ikusaba. I thought a student as tidy and collected looking as you would understand the importance of a student’s image!

Mukuro: But we aren’t even in a school right now. We’re on a trip. At least my uniform’s light. Yours looks like you’ll get stuffy in no time.

Kiyotaka: Well, if that is what it takes to uphold my image as a model student, then I shall greet this challenge and face it head on!

Update!

With that I just gave him a half-hearted wave, which was responded to with a way-too-over-the-top wave, and decided to move on. Makoto looked a bit saddened by his words though.

Mukuro: You look fine. Don’t listen to him.

Makoto: Well, it’s hard not to feel a bit down when the Ultimate Moral Compass tells you that you aren’t up to standard...

Mukuro: Ultimate Moral Compass? He did not seem too nice...

Makoto: Well, he is a perfect honor student, is perfect in his studies and helps out local Morals Committee. All while pursuing several sports. I think his title is meant to make him look like a perfect rolemodel...

Mukuro: Well, from a distance I can see that working...

There was one more person in front of the hotel. Saying I had hopes at that point would be a bold lie. Well, at least that Doll put on an appearance of nice girl.

Makoto: Hey, Sayaka! Meet Mukuro. Mukuro, this is Sayaka. We actually went to middle school together.

Doll: Hi! I’m Sayaka Maizono. I look forward to getting to know you.

Sayaka Maizono, Ultimate Pop Sensation

Mukuro: Huh... You two knew each other? Never would have guessed.

Makoto: Not really... We just went to same middle school. Maybe passed by one-another a few times.

Sayaka: Oh, Makoto. You’re so funny.

Makoto: I am?

Mukuro: So, Sayaka. What is it that you do?

Sayaka: Huh? You don’t know?

Mukuro: No.

Makoto: Wait, you seriously don’t recognize her?

Mukuro: No... I don’t.

Why were those two looking at me like they just discovered a living caveman?

Makoto: Have you never heard any of her songs? Not seen a single poster or piece of merch?

Mukuro: No? Are you a singer or something?

Sayaka: Well... Kind of. Sorry, I’m really not used to people not knowing me. It caught me by surprise. I am a member of idol pop group!

Mukuro: Oh, one of those. Sorry, I guess I never had any real interest in that sort of thing.

Makoto: Still, to miss someone as big as Sayaka?

Mukuro: Makoto, rude.

Makoto: Wh—Wait, I didn’t mean it like that!

Sayaka let out a short laugh.

Sayaka: It’s fine, Makoto. I know not everyone is a fan of our kind of music. I still look forward to becoming friends with you, Mukuro.

Her smile was... Nice. Everything about her was just telling me that she’s nice. Nothing else. That felt weird. Like she’s putting on a façade...

Sayaka: I’m being genuine, you know.

Mukuro: Huh? How’d you know what I’m thinking?

Makoto: She’s psychic.

Mukuro: What?

Sayaka: Makoto, that’s my line.

Makoto: Sorry...

Sayaka: But it’s just a little joke. I simply have good intuition.

Mukuro: Yeah...

Good intuition... More like good face-reading skills.

Update!

After letting Makoto say goodbye to Sayaka, we headed inside the hotel building itself.

***

Hotel Lobby

Well, this lobby looked rather small and comfy. More like a little lounge than a real hotel lobby, but makes sense considering the living quarters are the cabins. The only way to go from there was up. And this room had not one, but two elephants that were hard to ignore. I decided to start by approaching the one that looks less threatening.

Mukuro: Hey there. My name is Mukuro Ikusaba. What’s your name?

Fat Boy: O-Oh? Sorry, I’m not too used to being approached by women so directly... Ahem.

Fat Boy: I am Hifumi Yamada. Although you may know under my more known online alias... The Alpha and The Omega!

Hifumi Yamada, Ultimate Fanfic Creator

Makoto: Hey, Hifumi.

Hifumi: Good day to you as well, Mister Naegi. So, Miss Ikusaba, what compels you to approach me?

Mukuro: I... just wanted to introduce myself and learn about you?

Hifumi: I see... Then tell me this, Miss Ikusaba... What do you know about the great art form of fanfic?

Mukuro: Huh? What’s that?

Makoto: You know... Fanfic. Fan comics, stories and such based off of some original concept.

Hifumi: Indeed. Mister Naegi is correct in basic definition... But it does leave out so many wonderful aspects of it! Especially of my own art!

Mukuro: Huh... Well, I guess I never came across anything like that?

Makoto: Well, considering you haven’t heard of Sayaka that doesn’t sound surprising...

Hifumi: Wait, Miss Ikusaba hasn’t heard of Miss Maizono? Apologies if I’m a bit brash, but... What kind of rock have you been living under, Miss Ikusaba?

Mukuro: Hey, it’s perfectly normal to not have any interest in that kind of stuff! And I haven’t been living under a rock, I’ve been—

Blank.

Just like my talent. What... Where have I been living for recent years? I am Japanese, so... I was living in Japan... right? Or... Why can’t I remember?

Hifumi: A-Ahh... I’m sorry. I guess I said something upsetting?

Makoto: Mukuro? Are you alright?

Mukuro: I’m fine.

Hifumi: Whatever it was that I said wrong, I can say with absolute certainty that I absolutely did not mean it!

Update!

Mukuro: Whatever... let’s go, Makoto.

Makoto: Mukuro? Wait, Mukuro—I’ll see you later, Hifumi. Mukuro!

I walked away from the game tables and clutched my head. What was wrong with me? Why... Why can’t I remember anything? I remember my name. My childhood. What else am I missing? Why didn’t I realize that I was missing something in the first place? How do you even not realize you’re missing your own memories?

I look around and out of the window. Something was very wrong with this place. And... would anyone believe me if I said I was missing so many memories?

Makoto: Hey, Mukuro... Is something wrong? You just suddenly froze and you had that intense look... I think you scared Hifumi.

Mukuro: Nevermind. It’s nothing for you to worry about.

Makoto: Alright, but if anything’s wrong you shouldn’t just stay quiet.

Yes, I should. This isn’t normal. Far from it.

But I should think about that later. When I am alone. For now, I have more people I need to meet.

And only now that I’m getting closer look, the Ogre appears to be wearing a dress. It was not a he, it was very much a she... sh*t. Hopefully I didn’t say anything out loud.

I came closer and looked at her. She looked back. I could recognize her look... She was evaluating me visually. And I was evaluating her. I tensed up myself... She wasn’t just a mountain of hulking muscle. She was a mountain of hulking muscle that knew precisely how to make use of her own strength. That much was obvious.

We continued this little staring contest for a bit, before she finally closed her eyes and dipped her head. I did the same before speaking up.

Mukuro: Mukuro Ikusaba.

Ogre: Sakura Ogami.

Sakura Ogami, Ultimate Martial Artist

Sakura: I can tell that you’re strong. Perhaps you will do well as my sparring partner.

In direct fight, I stand no chance... But it was a nice complement nonetheless.

Mukuro: Thank you. I’d say you’re strong as well, but I’d be stating the obvious.

Sakura: Perhaps, but your strength is subtle, unlike mine. That is a strength on its own.

Makoto: When we met, you just called me extremely ordinary...

Sakura: Take no offense to that, Makoto. I was simply stating facts.

Makoto: What, are you saying Mukuro is that much stronger than me? No way.

Well, someone needed to be taught a lesson. Without asking, I walked up behind Makoto, slid my hands under his armpits... and lifted him up about a foot above the ground.

Makoto: Wh—Mukuro, hey, what are you—stop!

He was actually even lighter than I expected. I guess his hoodie and jacket made him look a bit bigger than he actually is. Makoto tried to flail of course, but keeping him lifted like that was not that hard. Sakura simply chuckled.

Makoto: Okay, okay, I’m sorry, please put me down...

And so I did, smiling at Makoto. He looked a bit humiliated, but otherwise not too upset.

Mukuro: So, Sakura... I assume your talent is related to fighting?

Sakura: Indeed. Martial arts, to be precise. It’s been a family tradition, and I am continuing it.

Makoto: Sakura’s the strongest woman in the world!

Mukuro: I can totally see that.

Sakura: Although, I am not the strongest person in the world. Not yet.

Mukuro: And I can totally see you earning that title in the future.

Sakura: Thanks. And what sort of fighting is your talent related to?

Mukuro: I...

Makoto: Sorry, but... Mukuro seems to have blanked out on her talent. It’s probably the shock.

Sakura: I see. In that case, I wish you luck in recalling it.

Mukuro: Thanks.

Update!

Makoto: Hey, Mukuro, let’s go check out the restaurant next.

Mukuro: Sure. See you around, Sakura.

Sakura: Indeed. I look forward to our future meetings.

***

Hotel Restaurant

Seventh Island was its name. It wasn’t that big either, again seemingly just perfect to situate a single class. Well, at least it looked rather nice. Fitting for the whole tropical atmosphere too. Unlike the people who were currently in there. Well, let’s see what they’re like.

Mukuro: Hello. I’m Mukuro Ikusaba. And who are you?

Braids: Of c-course... An uneducated savage wouldn’t recognize me...

Mukuro: Excuse me?

Braids: I don’t expect you to r-remember my name anyway, but...

Braids: I’m Toko. Toko f*ckawa.

Toko f*ckawa, Ultimate Writing Prodigy

Mukuro: Look, I’m sorry, it seems like today I’m constantly meeting people I’m somehow supposed to know but I just never heard of.

Toko: Well, you look like someone who’d have never h-heard of me...

Makoto: Mukuro, Toko is actually a writer. She published multiple award winning romance novels, and her latest one is a bestseller!

Mukuro: Romance novels, huh? Sorry, I never really liked stories like that.

Toko: Well, that was obvious from one look.

Mukuro: And what the hell is that supposed to mean?

Toko: W-What? Don’t glare at me like that? What did I ever do to you?

Makoto: Relax, Toko, I’m sure Mukuro means no wrong.

Toko: How can I relax when there are s-so many brutish people around here? I bet you all w-want to kick this disgusting girl off the island...

Makoto: No, that’s not it at all...

Toko: Don’t lie to m-me!

Update!

Mukuro: Let’s go, Makoto...

Toko: That’s right... G-Get away from the filthy creature... I knew it, you hate me...

We stepped away from Toko.

Makoto: Sorry... I’m not sure what’s up with her...

Mukuro: Inferiority complex. Big one.

Makoto: Yeah, that does seem like it... Still, for a romance writer to be like that...

Mukuro: Are you sure her genre isn’t horror?

Makoto: No, I’m certain.

Mukuro: Would have fit her personality at least. Anyway...

We approached the Lolita girl on the other end of the restaurant, examining a table with curiosity.

Makoto: Hey, Celeste. What are you looking at?

Lolita: It’s nothing. I am simply examining the quality of wood. Oh, hello there. You are the one who was left behind staring blankly at nothing, are you not?

Mukuro: Uh... Yeah. I think I got a bit overloaded.

Lolita: Well, I suppose introductions are in order. My name is Celestia Ludenberg.

Celestia Ludenberg, Ultimate Gambler

Celeste: But please, just call me Celeste.

Mukuro: I’m Mukuro Ikusaba. Pleased to meet you. Are you a foreigner?

Celeste: I’m not sure what you’re talking about. I am one hundred percent Japanese.

Mukuro: But... your accent? And your name?

Celeste: I do believe I have said everything that needs to be said in that line of conversation.

Well, that was a sharp cutoff.

Mukuro: So, uhh... What about your talent?

Celeste: Oh, it is simple. I strip people of all their money and possessions purely based on their own poor life choices.

Mukuro: Ultimate Tax Collector?

Celeste let out a short amused laugh. Looks like humor works with this one.

Makoto: Celeste is the Ultimate Gambler. There are rumors that she won multiple underground gambling tournaments against millionaires.

Mukuro: Huh... Wait, aren’t we minors?

Celeste: Well, I do suppose legality of such may be dubious. But it’s not me who carries burden of proof that anything was done wrong.

Mukuro: I see...

Celeste: And what sort of trade brings you to this place?

Mukuro: Actually... I don’t remember.

Celeste stayed silent in response, looking at me with a coy smile.

Makoto: Celeste? Is something wrong?

Celeste: No, not at all. I was simply trying to see whether Mukuro really is an amnesiac or just a liar. And I couldn’t tell at first glance. Consider me impressed. But I can also see that you are telling the truth.

Update!

Makoto: So, Celeste, I didn’t ask you before, but... What do you think of this whole situation?

Celeste: Well, it is hard to gauge the rabbit thing’s intentions, but the general atmosphere seems to be rather peaceful. A tropical vacation is rather stylish, if not quite my preference, and to an island otherwise devoid of people...

Mukuro: So, you’re onboard with whatever is happening here?

Celeste: That is not what I said. But I will do my best to get what enjoyment I can out of this situation.

Makoto: That’s surprisingly optimistic of you, Celeste.

Celeste: Indeed. It is important to appreciate what positives you can from the situations you’re presented with. Now, I do believe you have more introductions to do, Mukuro, so I shall not hold you up. Farewell.

Mukuro: Okay. Bye, Celeste.

With that, me and Makoto left the Hotel through another staircase leading directly outside and went to next location past hotel grounds. We passed by a locked-down building called Entertainment Center and directly towards the supermarket.

***

Supermarket

Rocketpunch Market... Well, I’ll give it to people behind this, they knew how to name places. And people here at least looked more normal than ones in the hotel...

Well, let’s start with the timid Bunny girl...

Mukuro: Hey there. I’m Mukuro Ikusaba. What’s your name?

Bunny: Oh, hello. I’m Chihiro Fujisaki.

Chihiro Fujisaki, Ultimate Programmer

Chihiro: ...

Mukuro: ...

Chihiro: I’m sorry...

Mukuro: Huh? But I didn’t say anything...

Chihiro: I’m just... not sure what else to say...

Makoto: Hey, Chihiro, how about you tell Mukuro about your talent?

Chihiro: Well... I was invited as the Ultimate Programmer...

Mukuro: Huh... That sounds cool.

Makoto: Chihiro here specializes in AI innovation! Her prototypes are considered some of the most advanced AI in the world.

Chihiro: Huh? Makoto... How do you know that?

Makoto: Oh, sorry... I just was reading about my future classmates on the internet... It’s not creepy, I promise!

Mukuro: Yep. Just reading biographies of the people you’re about to meet.

Makoto: Mukuro!

Chihiro: No, I’m sorry... I didn’t think of the internet...

Update!

Mukuro: Speaking of AI... Chihiro, what do you think of Usami?

Chihiro: What do you mean?

Mukuro: She’s gotta be some kind of robot, right?

Chihiro: Well, she does look cute... And I’m not entirely sure. She looks just like a stuffed toy, but if I had to guess... Yeah, it makes sense for her to be a robot.

Makoto: Maybe she’s being controlled from somewhere else?

Chihiro: Well, if she is an AI... It’s definitely very advanced! Although it’s clearly limited from what I saw...

Mukuro: Limited... how? Could we use it somehow?

Chihiro: One thing Usami seemed to not budge about was following the rules... I think she was designed to prioritize them above everything.

Makoto: Well, it’s good thing rules are lax and are all about being nice then.

Chihiro: Sorry... I wish I could have been more helpful...

Mukuro: It’s no problem. You still knew more than anyone else.

Chihiro: Yeah... I’ll try to figure things out.

With that me and Makoto went onward. The Sportsy Girl was in the different part of the supermarket, eyeing a door with clear frustration.

Makoto: Hey, Hina! What are you doing?

Sportsy Girl: Oh, hey Makoto, hey New Girl! I was just thinking... Usami was just here.

Mukuro: Usami was here? Why?

Sportsy Girl: Well, there’s this weird door. I tried to force it open but she appeared and said we need to earn it first.

Makoto: Maybe she’ll unlock it for us later?

Sportsy Girl: Yeah, probably. Anyway, New Girl! Time to introduce ourselves!

Sportsy Girl: My name is Aoi Asahina! You can just call me Hina though. Sup?

Aoi Asahina, Ultimate Swimming Pro

Mukuro: My name is Mukuro Ikusaba. You seem to be taking things easy.

Aoi: Of course! I mean, it is a bit weird, but we’re on a tropical island! For free!

Aoi: And imagine all the swimming, and running, and swimming, and eating, and swimming we can do!

Mukuro: You seem pretty enthusiastic about swimming, huh, Aoi?

Makoto: That’s because Hina is the Ultimate Swimming Pro.

Aoi: Yeah, that’s right. Oh, and this supermarket! It’s super awesome! You can just take whatever you want as long as you check it out on the register, and it’s regularly restocked!

Aoi: Do you know what that means?!

Mukuro: Uhh... Everything’s free?

Aoi: Well, yeah, but especially... donuts! Donuts are free!

Mukuro: Well, yeah, that’s included in everything.

Update!

Makoto: Anyway, I don’t think you should worry too much about that door, Hina.

Aoi: Yeah, that’s right. So, what’s your talent, Mukuro?

Mukuro: Oh. It’s a bit weird, but... I don’t remember it.

Aoi: Oh, that’s a bummer! Wait, you’re probably something athletics related, right? Just from your appearance, right?

Mukuro: Well, I do keep myself in good shape, but I’m not sure...

Aoi: I actually managed to guess several others’ talents! I guessed Toko’s, Byakuya’s, Makoto’s, Sakura’s and Mondo’s talents just by their appearance! Well, not exactly but approximately.

Mukuro: That’s almost Yasuhiro-level accuracy...

Makoto: Wait, you guessed my talent?

Aoi: Well, no offense, but you do kinda just look... average.

Makoto: Oh, I see. Don’t worry about it.

Aoi: Oh! Mukuro! I am already planning to do morning jogs with Sakura! Do you want to join us? You look like someone who’d like to!

Mukuro: Sure? I guess?

Aoi: Awesome! Oh, and did you know that apparently Yasuhiro thought Sakura was a guy? So rude!

Mukuro: Ha... ha... yeah... Very rude...

Makoto: Hina, I know you’re excited, but Mukuro still hasn’t actually introduced herself to everyone yet...

Aoi: Oh! Then go ahead! I’ll just keep looking around here!

Thanks, Makoto... I’m not sure how I would have pulled away from this chatterbox. Well, she’s pretty nice, if only overexcited.

***

Airport

This was the last place on the island to check... Of the open ones at least. And... wasn’t it our way out? I rushed to the window and looked at the planes I could see parked on the other side...

Delinquent: Don’t bother. They’re all gutted.

Mukuro: Damn it...

Makoto: Hey... Mondo.

Delinquent: Yo, Makoto. And new girl too.

Mukuro: Hey. My name’s Mukuro. Mukuro Ikusaba.

Delinquent: I’m Mondo Owada. Nice to f*cking meetcha.

Mondo Owada, Ultimate Biker Gang Leader

Mukuro: You sure you checked all of them?

Mondo: Not much to check over there. Engines are simply gone. I don’t know much about those things, but that’s f*cking obvious.

Makoto: Someone went through the effort of removing engines out of the airplanes? Then why even keep them there?

Mondo: Probably to tease us or some sh*t. Or maybe they will fix them when we have to be getting out.

Mukuro: I see... So, Mondo. What is it that you do?

Mondo: Heh... Curious, huh? Well, I’m the official top dog of Crazy Diamonds! The toughest biker gang in the country!

Mukuro: Huh... Is that the logo on your back?

Mondo: Oh, you saw it? Pretty damn cool, right? You know... When we get out, I could give you a ride or two. You look like our kind of chick!

Mukuro: Hm... I’ll think about it.

Update!

Mondo: Hey, that’s a wicked tattoo! Can I see?

A tattoo? Oh, that’s right. He’s talking about the wolf tattoo on the back of my right hand. I held it up and showed it to the guys.

Mukuro: Thanks.

Makoto: I noticed but, but didn’t think to bring attention to it...

Mondo: Hey, where’d you get that made? I wanted to get one for a while, but finding a place that serves minors is hard as sh*t.

Where did I get it? Speaking of that... when did I get it? I definitely remember this tattoo... I’ve had it for a while... Is... Is that one of the things I didn’t remember? sh*t. More emptiness. More blanks. What the hell is happening...

Mondo: Hey... If you don’t wanna say, you don’t have to say... No need to start glaring all crazy like.

Was I glaring? Is that what scared Hifumi earlier?

Mukuro: My glare isn’t that scary. I thought you were top dog of toughest biker gang in japan?

Mondo: Of course I f*cking am!

Mondo: I was just, uh... Worried I said something wrong to a cool chick.

Makoto: But your glare can be pretty scary, Mukuro.

Mondo: The hell you say? You wanna insult girls, you better pick someone who actually can fight back!

Makoto: Th-that’s not what I meant!

Mukuro: Relax, tough guy. No need to get physical.

Mondo: Gh... Fine. But you better watch your mouth, got it?!

Makoto: Uh, yes sir!

Mondo: Good.

Mukuro: See you around, Mondo.

We went off, Makoto with much faster pace than me, to the reception part of airport. There, relaxing in the chairs was the Redhead...

Mukuro: Hey there. I’m Mukuro Ikusaba.

Redhead: Hey! Name’s Leon Kuwata!

Leon Kuwata, Ultimate Baseball Star

Makoto: Hey, Leon. What are you doing here?

Leon: Hey, Makoto! Well, everyone elsewhere was getting a bit excited with all the introductions, so I decided to sneak away somewhere quiet to relax.

Leon: I mean, that’s what the trip is meant to be about, right? Relaxing! I dunno what’s up with everyone being so suspicious.

Mukuro: Maybe people are suspicious because we suddenly got transported from Hope’s Peak to some supposedly uninhabited island without warning?

Leon: It’s a free vacation instead of school! That’s the dream!

Makoto: Anyway, Leon... Why don’t you tell Mukuro about your talent?

Leon: My talent? Well, I guess I am good at baseball... But I already told you, Makoto, I want to quit!

Mukuro: Wait, you were invited because you’re good at baseball and now you want to quit it? Won’t that get you kicked out of the school?

Leon: They can’t un-invite me, can they? Anyway, baseball just sucks. It’s boring practice after boring practice... I want to be doing something actually cool!

Leon: So, I was thinking of getting into music instead! I even grew my hair and changed my style to match.

Leon: Leon Kuwata, the Ultimate Rockstar! Now that’s a cool title!

Update!

Mukuro I see... Well, good luck in that endeavor?

Leon: Sure! See you around, Mukuro.

Mukuro: Yeah. You as well.

***

Central Island Park

I was done meeting everyone except one girl. Her. And Makoto suggested we look for the last person on the Central Island. It didn’t really have anything to it... Only a bunch of closed gates that had bridges to other islands on them and a park in the middle. And of course there She was in the park. As I got closer, She stared at me, before Her eyes widened.

She: Oh. My. God. It can’t be real, can it?

Mukuro: It’s... you, right?

She: Oh my god! It is! Mucus!

She ran up to me and wrapped me in a tight hug. I returned it after a moment of hesitation. Yep. She looked somewhat different, but it couldn’t be anyone else...

Makoto: Wait, huh? You two already know each other?

Mukuro: Yeah... I wasn’t sure at first, but seeing and hearing her up close. Makoto, meet my younger twin sister, Junko Enoshima.

Junko Enoshima, Ultimate Fashionista

Junko: Oh come on, you’re older than me by minutes and you keep bringing it up. Is there nothing else you can feel proud of? Oh, right of course not, stinky.

Makoto: Wait... twins? But... you look so different!

Mukuro: We don’t look that different...

Junko: We’re nothing alike. Well, maybe we were one day, but like... Mukuro’s got her dumb-looking freckles.

Mukuro: You also dyed your hair...

Makoto: Wait, Junko, you dyed your hair?

Junko: Duh-doy! What next, will you be surprised your middle school idol girlfriend isn’t a natural bluenette?

Makoto: No... I just... Didn’t really think about it...

Junko: Oh, hey, you and Mukuro already have so much in common!

Mukuro: Come on, Junko... Give him a break.

Junko: Fine. I have a way better target in mind. You... What in the world have you been up to? You disappear for years, with no trace, not even gift card for your best and only sister, and now you show up as a Hope’s Peak Ultimate?

Junko: What even is your talent? Ultimate Ditcher? Ultimate Milk Carton Model? Ultimate B.O.?

Mukuro: Well... it might sound weird... But I actually... don’t remember. I think it might be shock from all this or something...

Junko: Wait... Seriously? Are you an Ultimate Amnesiac then? That’d be just hilarious.

Makoto: Come on, Junko. It isn’t funny.

Mukuro: What about you, Junko? What have you been up to?

Junko: What have I been up to? Well, I had to pick up the family after you disappeared. It’s very hard being the only child, you know!

Mukuro: I’m sorry... I probably didn’t mean to disappear.

Junko: That bad, huh? Well, you were dropped when you were a baby, maybe it’s only taking effect now.

Mukuro: Don’t lie, Junko. You’d be too young to remember that.

Junko: Whatever. Anyway, I decided that best and least effort-requiring way to make a fortune would be to get into modelling! Especially with boobs like mine. So, after a year or so, I’m the most desired teenage model in all of Japan!

Mukuro: I would think the attention would get pretty tiring for you.

Junko: Yeah, I didn’t really think that part through. I found a way to deal with it though.

Update!

Makoto: Wait, if you’re twins... Why do you have different last names?

Mukuro: ...

Junko: ...

Mukuro: It’s a long story.

Junko: Yeah, and pretty boring too.

Makoto: Are you sure you two are actually sisters? You two don’t act like it at all.

Mukuro: What do you mean?

Junko: This is how we always interact. I call out Mukuro on being a stinky slob, and she ignores me while pretending to actually have multiple brain cells.

Mukuro: You know our scores have been the same last we compared.

Junko: Well, I’ll be getting it re-evaluated the moment we can have the tests ran again!

Makoto: Yeah, that! The way you two just... bicker. That’s wrong!

Mukuro: Huh?

Junko: Do you even have siblings, Makoto?

Makoto: Of course I do! I have a younger sister and we never call each other names!

Junko: Seriously?

Mukuro: Then what do you call each other?

Makoto: Well, our names. And when not that, I call her little sister, and she calls me big brother.

Junko: Little sister?

Mukuro: Big brother?

Makoto: What’s wrong with that?

Mukuro: And two of you never fight?

Junko: Or have petty arguments?

Makoto: No! If anything, she’s probably my best friend!

Mukuro: Your little sister...

Junko: ...is your best friend.

Makoto: Hey, why are you staring at me like that?

Junko: Okay, egg-boy, this may be harsh, but... What the hell kind of siblings are you two?

Makoto: We’re perfectly normal siblings! Siblings aren’t meant to fight.

Mukuro: Siblings always fight. It’s not just me and Junko either.

Makoto: What? No, that can’t be right. Why would siblings fight? They’re... siblings!

Junko: Mucus, I think we found an anime protagonist in the wild.

Mukuro: I don’t get it...

Junko: Ugh, nevermind. Of all the times for you not to pick up a reference!

Makoto: Hey, what’s wrong with me and my sister? We have a perfectly normal relationship!

Mukuro: I don’t think we’re convincing him, Junk...

Junko: Okay, I have a bit of reputation so here’s the deal. I don’t call you Mucus in public and you don’t call me Junk in public. Deal?

Mukuro: Deal.

Junko: Great! Nice going, stinky.

Mukuro: Wait, I don’t have any other names to call you...

Junko: Well, you better get creative, freckles!

Ding Dong Bing Bong

Suddenly the monitor in the garden made a school bell sound and lit up. On it was that rabbit, Usami...

Usami: Congratulations, everyone! Looks like you’re all finished gathering the first set of Hope Fragments!

Usami: Sniff... I’m so proud... And happy too!

Usami: And I’ve prepared a very special reward for all of you!

Usami: Please, gather at the beach where we all started!

Click!

Junko: Welp, I guess we’re going to the beach now.

Mukuro: Wait, you’ll just do what that thing tells you to?

Junko: You’ve got better ideas? I thought not.

Makoto: I understand that all this is a bit weird, but you don’t have to be so suspicious, Mukuro.

Junko: Actually, it’s perfect situation to be suspicious of. You’d be an idiot not to.

Makoto: Huh?

Junko: But, like. What else can we do other than go along for now? Not like we’ve got options anyway. So, are you two coming?

Makoto: Of course!

Mukuro: Yeah.

***

Beach

By the time we made it back to the First Island, everyone else was already gathered at the beach.

Kiyotaka: Mukuro! Junko! Makoto! You are being tardy!

Junko: Was there a schedule or time limit?

Kiyotaka: No... but...

Mondo: Then shut the hell up.

Kiyotaka: Grh...!

Usami: Everyone, please don’t fight!

Usami: So, you’ve been working diligently on producing those Hope Fragments so far... I’m so proud. It’s only fair that I reward all of you!

And so she pulled something out. A huge round pin, featuring Usami herself and captioned “I ♥ Hope”. Then she went around and personally handed one to each of us.

Leon: Is this some kind of joke?

Chihiro: It looks kind of cute...

Sayaka: It’s pretty, but I wouldn’t say it really fits my outfit.

Celeste: Excuse me, where is the closest recycling bin?

Usami: Huh? Why do you need one?

Celeste: I have just come to possess some undesirable object and I simply wish to rid myself of it in rule-compliant manner.

Byakuya: Coming here was a waste of time.

Kyoko: Maybe not a waste quite yet, if we can get some explanation as to what is actually going on here.

Mondo: Yeah, cut the sh*t!

Usami: Uwah... You mean kids. I did my best to give you this gift, and you’re just wanting to bully your teacher... I almost don’t want to give you the second gift...

Hifumi: A second gift? What could it be?

Toko: P-Probably something even dumber than the first...

Usami: Well, I just thought that since we’re on a tropical island, we could organize a tropical-themed event!

Aoi: Like a luau?

Yasuhiro: Or a huge campfire?

Sayaka: We could gather pretty seashells!

Kiyotaka: A study hall!

Usami: All wonderful suggestions, but I had something better in mind!

With that she pulled out something else. A bunch of packaged swimsuits. Where does she keep getting this stuff?

Usami: You kids should enjoy the sea to its fullest!

Sakura: Swimming... That does sound enjoyable.

Aoi: Oh, oh, gimme one, gimme!

Hifumi: Hmm... Yes, I do approve of this activity!

Mondo: You just want to f*cking stare at girls, don’t you, fatty?!

Hifumi: I-I’ll have you know that I already gave my heart away!

Junko: Seriously? I didn’t think your type would be into monogamy.

Hifumi: My heart is reserved exclusively for 2D!

Junko: Oh. Duh.

Usami: Come on, everyone! There’s enough swimsuits for all of you! And they’re right sizes too! Go to your cottages and get changed!

Kiyotaka: Miss Usami, Miss! I must voice my concern regarding safety and usefulness of this class activity!

Usami: Oh, don’t worry, Taka. Consider it like a gym class in the pool, just more freeform. Oh, and I have something extra special for you.

Out of her infinite... somewhere, Usami pulled out a Taka-sized lifeguard jacket.

Usami: It sure would be nice if some student was responsible enough to take on this hard role... Would you do it for your teacher, Taka?

Kiyotaka: I... Of course! I won’t fail you, Miss Usami, Miss! I will live up to your every expectation as I take on this responsibility!

Usami: I’m sure you will, Kiyotaka!

I saw Makoto going past me and back to Hotel with one of swimsuits.

Makoto: Mukuro, I know it’s a bit weird... But you should really try to relax. We’re on the beach by the sea! What’s the worst that could happen?

Mukuro: I can count hundreds of possibilities.

Makoto just smiled anyway, and ran off along with everyone else who took Usami’s offer. That left me with few people on the beach that I could chat with...

Mukuro: So, uh... Why are you guys not joining?

Byakuya: Is that meant to be a serious question?

Kyoko: I simply wish to question the rabbit some more.

Usami: You don’t have to be so intense, Kyoko!

Kyoko: I need to know about my father.

Usami: I’m sorry, but I’m not really supposed to talk about it...

Celeste: I hope you’re not trying to earn favors by using your familial connections?

Kyoko: No. But my father is the main reason I agreed to Hope’s Peak invitation.

Celeste: I sense a bit of history there.

Kyoko: History that is only between me and him.

Celeste: I see. Then I shall pry no longer.

Mukuro: Hey, Celeste, Chihiro, Toko... Why aren’t you three going with them?

Celeste: I’d prefer not to ruin my outfit. And while I do appreciate the tropical sun, I do much prefer calm indoor activities.

Chihiro: I’m sorry... I’m just... embarrassed of changing...

Toko: C-Can’t be worse than me... I’d bet everyone w-would really hate me if they saw me naked...

Kyoko: I’m pretty sure Usami wouldn’t allow you to go into the sea naked either way.

Usami: Of course not! Indecency is absolutely not allowed!

Suddenly, I heard a bunch of happy voices, as the group in swimsuits rushed onto the beach and directly into the sea.

Leon: Woohoo!

Aoi: Yeah! Now that’s a swimming pool! No limits, only swimming!

Kiyotaka: Aoi Asahina, no swimming too far!

Aoi: Booo!

Sakura: The seawater carries special properties. It is good to visit the sea at least occasionally for it.

Junko: Damn, I think I took the wrong swimsuit... This feels a bit too tight.

Hifumi: N-No... I’m sure it’s exactly what it’s supposed to be...

Mondo: The hell do you think you’re looking at, asshole?

Kiyotaka: Mondo Owada, no fighting other students! Hifumi Yamada, no inappropriate comments or staring!

Sayaka: Hey, Makoto! Let’s swim together!

Makoto: Huh? Sure, w-wait, hey, not too fast!

Yasuhiro: Here-here, little seashells... give daddy a pearl that will sell for a fortune...

Sakura: I recommend not doing that.

Yasuhiro: Here-here—Ow! It bit me! Ow! Get it off! Get it off my finger!

Kiyotaka: Yashiro Hagakure, no harassing local wildlife!

Leon: Dude, you’re taking this way too seriously...

Everyone... Was just having fun. And nothing was going wrong. Maybe I just got paranoid over my missing memories... Maybe I did get a sunstroke. What is wrong with me? Maybe the thing that’s wrong is that I can’t relax properly? Junko and Makoto are right. I should just stop thinking too hard and go with the flow.

Mukuro: Hey, Usami, do you still have my swimsuit?

Usami: Sure! It’s right he—

But before she even finished speaking, the bright sunny atmosphere disappeared. The whole sky was covered by dark stormy clouds in matter of moments.

Mukuro: What... what just happened?

Celeste: Oh my. That was sudden.

Kiyotaka: Everyone! Get out of the water! Swimming during storms is dangerous!

Byakuya: How the hell did it get so dark so quickly?

And before Usami could answer, screen lit up again. This time, there was only static to be seen. And voice was definitely not Usami’s, even if somewhat similar.

???: Ahem! Mic check, mic check, one two! Can everyone hear me? Okay, well then! To all students! This is your Headmaster speaking!

???: Surprised? You should be! Anyway, we all know what is about to happen, so let’s cut to the chase!

???: All of you, please gather in the park of the Central Island!

Click!

Chihiro: What was that?

Usami: Oh no! There’s no way he’s here! I... I need to do something!

Kyoko: Hey! Explain yourself!

Usami: There’s no time! I’m sorry!

With that, Usami... flew off? What the hell...

Mukuro: Kyoko, that wasn’t actually your father, right?

Kyoko: Of course not. We should still go. Whatever is happening, I’ve got a bad feeling about it.

Mukuro: What about those in the water?

Celeste: Well, it appears they are already getting out. I’m certain they’ll catch up to us. Now, if you’ll excuse me.

Byakuya: What a waste of time...

Toko: H-Hey, don’t just leave me here!

I sighed. There wasn’t much choice there... We had to go.

***

Central Island Park

It took a bit of time, but eventually even people who were swimming dressed up and caught up to us.

Leon: Hey, what is happening here, guys?

Kiyotaka: Is it true that the Headmaster is about to make an appearance?

Kyoko: That’s what the message seemed to imply... But I somehow doubt it.

???: No need to doubt! Because here I am!

The voice... It came from behind the statue.

Then once all our eyes were on that statue, out from behind it jumped out... A bear. A teddy bear. Similar in shape to Usami, except its one side was white and other was black. Black side also had a wicked grin and a red eye...

???: Why, hello bear! It is so nice to see you students. I am this school’s Headmaster... Monokuma!

Aoi: Is that... a teddy bear?

Chihiro: But it looks all... weird.

Junko: I dunno. It looks kinda cute. Especially with that clever design on the eye. It’s part of Hope’s Peak crest, right?

Hifumi: Teddy bear that talks!

Leon: Is that really surprising after the rabbit talked?

Hifumi: That means there might be more!

Byakuya: Seriously? Is this place just going to be a non-stop barrage of useless nonsense?

Monokuma: There is no nonsense here! It is completely true.

Kyoko: Who are you? Are you involved with my father?

Monokuma: Puhuhu... Ahahahahaha! Oh, look at you being such a daddy’s girl! Well, I guess that question will have to remain a mystery for now.

Kyoko: What?!

Usami: An opening!

Monokuma: Wuzzah!?

And then we were treated to something even more ridiculous. Out of nowhere, Usami showed up and simply jumped Monokuma, the two immediately becoming locked in a dust-cloud-covered fight...

Usami: You can’t do your wicked thing, Monokuma! I won’t let you!

Monokuma: Hey, that was my line! What do you think you’re doing?!

Usami: Stopping you before you can do anything!

Monokuma: Oh, you useless rabbit... I’ll do whatever I want once... you... go... down...

Usami: No way! I won’t give up!

Eventually the dust cloud dissipated, revealing the two oversized toys standing across from each other, visibly... panting?

Usami: No way... I can’t... overpower you...

Monokuma: How can I... not even beat... a useless rabbit...

Usami: Looks like... you still can’t do... anything... We’re evenly... matched... Monokuma...

Monokuma: Hm? Oh! You just gave me the best idea!

Usami: Huh?

Monokuma: I don’t need to beat you to do what I want to do! I only need you to be unable to stop me!

Usami: Uwah!

Monokuma: So, sorry for this distraction, kids, but it seems like we’ve come to a bit of cease fire. And now that we have, here’s the kicker!

Monokuma: Heart-Throbbing School Trip? Eugh, blegh, disgusting, get rid of it!

Monokuma: Instead... How about a good old fashioned Killing School Trip?

Sayaka: Killing School Trip?

Monokuma: You heard me right! I’m sure all of you in one way or another want to get off this island... Well, I agree! Keeping you here is very much unfair!

Usami: What... what are you saying... you mean Monokuma!

Monokuma: Oh, shut up.

Monokuma: Well, for those of you aching to get out... I prepared something special. An opportunity to leave!

Byakuya: Finally...

Monokuma: But there’s a catch! You see, the way things are... Just letting you leave isn’t possible. So, due to some complicated, ahem, paperwork...

Monokuma: The only way you guys get to leave is if you kill someone else!

Chihiro: W-What?

Toko: No w-way! You lie!

Monokuma: Me? Lie? Why I never! It’s the absolute truth! You kill, you leave! Well, there are few in-between steps, but...

Sakura: Killing... I won’t allow it.

Mondo: The hell you sayin’, you stupid toy? I’ll rip you in half!

Aoi: Yeah! We won’t let you go and make us kill each other!

Mukuro: Agreed. That won’t be allowed.

Kiyotaka: That is simply unacceptable!

Monokuma: Oh... you think you can defy me? Puhuhu... Puhuhuhu... Well then, time to summon those emergency enforcers that Usami here prepared!

Usami: Wait! You don’t mean—

Monokuma: I summon the guardians of this island! Come forth, Monobeasts!

And then the unbelievable started happening... The statue in the park, featuring a human and four animals started crumbling and shaking... Until it exploded, five giant robot creatures jumping right out of it and behind Monokuma...

Monokuma: Let’s see how brave your defiance is now!

Usami: You can’t! You can’t use them like that!

Monokuma: You tried to stop me and you failed! I’ll do as I please!

Usami: Wait... No! You added the rules already, you meanie!

Monokuma: And what are you going to do about it?

Usami: I... I...

Monokuma: Well, I gave you guys all the important information. What you do with it is up to you. Puhuhuhu...

And the bear disappeared...

Usami: I won’t let you!

...followed by the rabbit right after.

We were left there, shocked... Killing one-another to escape? Was this a joke? Was this serious?

Junko: So, uhh... The hell just happened?

Yasuhiro: Monsters! These monsters came out of the statue!

Chihiro: They look like machines...

Toko: F-Forget about the robots! I know you’re all plotting to kill me a-already!

Aoi: Nobody here wants to kill you, Toko.

Toko: Because I’m so useless and d-disgusting, right? Right?!

Sakura: Calm down, Toko. There is no reason to panic.

Celeste: I agree. The panic is baseless. Or else you really will end up the first victim.

Leon: What... victim? You guys can’t be taking this seriously...

Makoto: Of course we aren’t! There’s no way we’d kill each other!

Kiyotaka: Murder... Killing? It’s completely unacceptable!

Mondo: f*ck... But those monsters... We can’t do sh*t about them!

Celeste: Then it appears that the situation is clear.

Byakuya: Indeed. Kill and escape. That is very simple.

Hifumi: You say that as if killing itself is easy to you, Mister Togami...

Byakuya: That’s because I have no illusions. Seriously? Heart-Throbbing School Trip? Hope Fragments? This nonsense of a farce lasted long enough.

Celeste: It is good to finally see the true purpose behind this ordeal.

Chihiro: But Usami... She was nice...

Sayaka: Are we sure that it really is true purpose? What if that Monokuma thing just hijacked it?

Junko: Does it matter? We are still in the life or death situation.

Mukuro: But nobody here would kill, right?

Hifumi: Indeed... Unless... Miss Ikusaba is trying to get us to lower our guard... To take her own chances!

Yasuhiro: How’d I get caught up in something like that? Please, tell me it’s some bad trip...

Kiyotaka: I can affirm, Yasuhiro, that this trip has indeed turned very bad! Still, as students, we can work together to—

Mondo: Oh, shut your trap, you goody two shoes. Nobody here has patience for your bullsh*t.

Kiyotaka: What...?

Leon: Yeah, all this school rules crap doesn’t apply when you aren’t in school. And especially not in the life or death situation.

Kyoko: Everyone, quiet down. None of you are thinking about this rationally.

Celeste: Oh?

Kyoko: There is currently only one serious threat present to us. It’s not Monokuma, Usami or even those Monobeasts. And not each other either.

Kyoko: The biggest threat to our collective safety right now... Is our mutual distrust.

Kyoko: Brought to a faraway location, cut off from the world, with a group of complete strangers and getting told to kill each other...

Kyoko: The goal is quite simple. To set in paranoia, fear and distrust. And as we suspect the others more, we become more likely to give in and confirm their suspicion.

Kyoko: This, however instinctual, inability to trust others in dangerous situation... is the biggest threat currently facing us.

Nobody had anything to say to us. Instead we were all looking at each other, gauging reactions. Sixteen Ultimate high school students... And all you need to do to escape is to kill. Kyoko was right. I could see it in everyone’s eyes. They were looking at others and thinking “Would they kill? Would I be the target?”. And I was barely any different either...

This was how normal life I knew has ended. And the Killing School Trip has begun...

Prologue – End

Surviving Students: 16

Gift Received: Unused Swimsuit

Chapter 3: Chapter 1 – Panic at Despair Beach – Daily Life 1

Chapter Text

Chapter 1 – Panic at Despair Beach – Daily Life

Rule 5

Once a murder takes place, a class trial will begin shortly thereafter. Participation is mandatory for all surviving students.

Rule 6

If the blackened is exposed during the class trial, they alone will be executed.

Rule 7

If the blackened is not exposed, the remaining students will be executed.

Rule 8

As a reward, the surviving blackened will be forgiven of their crime and allowed to leave the island.

Rule 9

The Body Discovery Announcement will play as soon as three or more people discover a body for the first time.

Rule 10

Destroying any essential facilities on the island is expressly prohibited. This includes the surveillance cameras and monitors.

Rule 11

You are free to investigate this island at your own discretion. Your actions in this regard are not limited.

Rule 12

Any given blackened cannot kill more than two people.

Rule 13

Each student is provided a unique perk based on their talent, accessible through student handbook. They can use it to give themselves an advantage during the killing game. Sharing the nature of the perk is up to students’ own discretion.

Final Rule

Additional School Trip rules may be added at supervisors’ discretion.

I finished reading all the freshly added rules. After Kyoko’s words yesterday, we ended up just scattering and going to our cottages. I don’t think anyone was ready to confront others so soon. Still, those rules...

I decided to check that perk thing mentioned in that last rule. I had no idea what that could mean, so I opened the newly present Perk section and...

Ultimate ???’s Perk

Locked Perk

Sorry, but you need to actually know what your talent is before accessing a perk!

...this is bullsh*t.

Still, I couldn’t sit in my room all day. I took some time to exercise... And eventually... There was a bell, and monitor in my cottage lit up.

Bing Bong Ding Dong

Usami: Hello, dear students! I’m sorry for what happened yesterday! But it is now new morning, and a new beginning! Let the bright hope shine within you a—

Monokuma: Give me that! What, do you call that a morning announcement? You didn’t even start with “This is a school announcement” or say the exact time!

Usami: Hey, it’s my announcement!

Monokuma: No it’s mine!

Usami: Give it back!

Monokuma: No, you give it up!

Click!

Well, this is shaping up to be annoying. I hope it won’t be a new regular...

Still. I didn’t eat anything since yesterday and was starting to feel a bit puckish. I can’t hide out in my cottage while waiting for everything to pass, so I decided to make my way to the hotel’s restaurant.

***

Hotel Restaurant

To my surprise, most people have already gathered. The only absentees were Kyoko, Junko and Yasuhiro.

Aoi: Oh, hey Mukuro! You showed up!

Mukuro: Of course I did. I wasn’t going to starve.

Aoi: Have you seen? There’s tons of awesomely-delicious looking food here!

Hifumi: Indeed, it truly is a feast!

Toko: B-But... who made it? It definitely wasn’t here yesterday...

Byakuya: Well, I am simply waiting on someone dumb and rash to taste-test it for me.

Sayaka: Oh, there’s no need to worry. Monokuma wasn’t the one who made it, Usami was.

Chihiro: Then, does that mean it’s safe?

Celeste: I wouldn’t put much trust into either of those things.

Makoto: But Usami was clearly nice... She even opposed Monokuma when he tried to start a killing game!

Celeste: Indeed, quite a show they put on out there. However, that doesn’t make either of them any more trustworthy.

Sakura: Sayaka, how come you’re aware that Usami was behind the dishes?

Sayaka: Oh, she simply told me! I was among the first to come here this morning and she was still here.

Kiyotaka: I can confirm Sayaka’s words! I was here as well and Miss Usami notified that she personally got all the food made for us.

Leon: Man... I’m actually getting hungry now. Is anyone going to actually try the food?

Celeste: Hifumi. You seem fitting with your eating expertise.

Hifumi: Uhh... I’m sorry, Miss Ludenberg, but I’m afraid I’m on a no-potential-poison diet...

Mondo: Well, someone’s got to try it, damn it!

That was when Yasuhiro and Junko finally arrived...

Junko: Hey, everyone. Man, getting my makeup to cooperate can be a pain sometimes.

Yasuhiro: Hey, everyone. Why aren’t you eating? Food looks delicious!

Before anyone could say anything, Hiro just walked up to food-filled counter, grabbed a piece of chicken and bit into it. Only when he swallowed it and turned around did he realize that everyone was staring at him.

Yasuhiro: What? Did... someone call dibs on that or something?

Byakuya: Well, you do fit the bill I suppose.

Celeste: Indeed. Food appears to be safe after all.

That’s when we all started grabbing portions for ourselves.

Kiyotaka: Of course it’s safe! Miss Usami made it for us and she is our lead teacher!

Leon: Hey, you refused to try it either.

Kiyotaka: I was just... Waiting for everyone else to arrive! It would be improper to start the meal any earlier. Even if they happen to be late.

Makoto: Speaking of late, did you guys see Kyoko?

Yasuhiro: Nope.

Junko: Sorry, but no.

Mondo: Where’d she get off to?

Sayaka: You don’t think... she could have...

Kyoko: Of course I couldn’t have.

Suddenly, Kyoko came in too. She used direct entrance from outside rather than staircase inside the hotel.

Kiyotaka: Kyoko! Your tardiness caused us unnecessary worry!

Kyoko: Well, you don’t need to worry about me.

Toko: Y-You didn’t even come to your cottage tonight, did you?

Mukuro: Hey, how do you know?

Toko: I k-know because I couldn’t sleep and spent all night spying on what happens through the window!

Junko: That’s just creepy.

Kyoko: Well, it doesn’t matter. She’s right, I was busy with other things.

Leon: What can you be busy with in the middle of the night?

Hifumi: Miss Kirigiri! To announce such in public!

Kyoko: It’s nothing like that. Here.

Kyoko dropped something on the table. Coming closer, I could see that it was a tourism pamphlet for... Jabberwock Island?

Aoi: Jabberwock Island?

Kyoko: Indeed. A tropical island that is actually a grouping of five islands around a central one. The photos generally match approximate shape of islands we’re on.

Leon: So, does that meant that we’re on Jabberwock Island?

Byakuya: I believe I heard about the island in the past. However, it was definitely not uninhabited.

Kyoko: Correct. And it’s not the only difference. According to the pamphlet, that park where everything went down yesterday isn’t supposed to be there. Instead it should have been an official building.

Makoto: But there are no buildings anywhere on the Central Island, much less in the park.

Kyoko: Furthermore, the islands of Jabberwock are not actually connected by bridges. Instead they used a system of ferries.

Mondo: Those bridges look tough as sh*t. There’s no way someone put them up overnight.

Leon: So, that means that we’re not on Jabberwock Island then?

Kyoko: I can’t say. The resemblance, similarities, even the statue in the park being a statue that was supposed to be on the island point to this place being Jabberwock Island. But lack of building, people or the bridges existing points to it not being Jabberwock Island.

Toko: Who c-cares if its Jabberwock or Bandersnatch or whatever Island. That doesn’t change the fact that we are all stuck h-here until we kill someone...

Sayaka: Don’t say that, Toko. We can also still escape by collecting all the Hope Fragments! That’s what Usami said.

Chihiro: Killing... It sounds horrible... Nobody would...

Byakuya: Are you certain nobody would?

Celeste: As much as the rabbit’s sentiments sound like a pleasant dream, it remains nothing more than a dream. There is no reason to believe someone here will put life of a stranger over their own freedom.

Chihiro: B-But...

Kiyotaka: Everyone! Listen to me!

Kiyotaka: I understand that everyone is concerned and suspicious. However, I do believe there is something we’re lacking that would allow us to avoid any unnecessary strife!

Kyoko: Information?

Aoi: Donuts?

Sakura: Perseverance?

Makoto: Friendship?

Leon: Relaxation?

Byakuya: Extra brain cells?

Kiyotaka: I... will ignore that last suggestion. But no. What I believe our class requires is firm leadership! A Class President, so to say. The person who, in case of panic and chaos, can bring everyone together and organize us!

Mondo: Let me guess. You’re volunteering?

Kiyotaka: I wasn’t going to say it, but since Mondo suggested my candidature, I am honored to accept!

Mondo: What?!

Leon: Hey, we haven’t decided that yet. Isn’t it supposed to be a vote? I object!

Sayaka: I disagree as well. Not that you’re a bad leader, Taka, but... I don’t think you are the best for current situation.

Kiyotaka: But in that case... Who else?

Chihiro: Maybe... Byakuya? His talent is related to leadership, right?

Byakuya: Seriously? You peons expect me to organize and manage you? Forget it. The only reason I’m here is to get food and information. I couldn’t care less what happens to the rest of you.

Chihiro: I’m sorry...

Mondo: Forget about him. He’s a dick.

Kiyotaka: So, since Byakuya refuses, does that mean there are no other candidates?

Makoto: How about Kyoko?

Kyoko: Huh?

Aoi: Oh yeah! Kyoko’s super smart, right?

Sakura: She has powerful fortitude.

Mondo: And she can be pretty scary at times... For a chick.

Toko: Well, at l-least she’s not a bimbo...

Junko: Hey! I’ll have you know I had smarts first, boobs later.

Kyoko: Hey, wait a second—

Leon: Kyoko is also kind of law enforcement, right? With her talent and all.

Sayaka: And that speech she made yesterday was pretty impactful.

Celeste: Capability to remain calm during an intense situation is a valuable quality for a leader.

Mukuro: Yeah, she did hold herself together pretty well throughout everything.

Byakuya: And she does have more brain cells than most of you combined, I’ll give her that.

Kyoko: Now, just a moment—

Mondo: I thought you didn’t give a damn about what happens to us?

Byakuya: I don’t. I’m simply acknowledging facts.

Yasuhiro: Hey, she’s also the Headmaster’s daughter, right? She has to have some genetic memory of how to organize stuff!

Hifumi: And having a female leader is definitely more inspiring to everyone!

Chihiro: Kyoko can also be pretty nice...

Kiyotaka: Well, if everyone is in agreement, then I have no choice but to concede this time! I shall endorse Kyoko as the up-and-coming Class President!

Kyoko: Everyone, stop!

Makoto: Huh? Kyoko?

Kyoko: Did any one of you even consider that just like Byakuya, I might not be interested?

Hifumi: Really? I thought a kuudere of your style would be exactly in line with position’s nature. “A calm and collected leader who always knows just the right kind of thing to say.”

Kyoko: I am not a ‘kuudere’. And I certainly don’t want the responsibility.

Kiyotaka: But everyone supports you! How can you turn down everyone’s expectations?

Kyoko: Same way Byakuya did. I do not want to be responsible in case something does happen. However... I will accept the position.

Makoto: But... you just said...

Kyoko: I don’t want to be responsible, yes. But I also did not want to be brought onto this island or made to participate in a life-or-death game either. And I’ll do my best in this position, even if it was thrust on me.

Kiyotaka: In that case, congratulations, Class President Kirigiri! What is our first order of business?

Kyoko: Nothing. I’m not about to start bossing any of you around or micromanaging your lives. Just don’t do anything stupid. The only time I’m planning to actually use this position is if I have to.

Leon: I knew you were the right choice! Hands-off leaders are the best.

Hifumi: It seems my judgement was correct after all!

Toko: B-But... really, what are we going to do now?

Celeste: Oh, I might have a conversation topic in mind. The perks.

Yasuhiro: Huh? What perks?

Junko: Seriously? Did you not even bother to read the new rules that Monokuma added?

Yasuhiro: Wait, there were rules?

Kiyotaka: Yasuhiro, you should immediately check your handbook!

Celeste: Well, judging by everyone’s reactions, it seems like he was the only one unaware of the perks.

Kyoko: So, what is it that you want to talk about regarding them?

Celeste: Nothing in particular. I simply thought having an official group stance on them would be for the best.

Aoi: We’re revealing what they are, right? After all, if they’re to help us kill... then we shouldn’t have a need of them.

Mondo: But they also might help us survive! Revealing it may mean that killer can just f*cking plan around it!

Chihiro: But... nobody here would kill, right?

Byakuya: So naïve...

Leon: Still, being able to protect yourself is kinda nice.

Mukuro: What are those perks? I can’t even see my own because of my amnesia.

Junko: I’ll show you mine later if you show me yours.

Mukuro: I told you, it’s locked out for me.

Junko: Oh, seriously? RIP. Well, I’ll still do it.

Sakura: I suppose then you have nothing to worry about, Mukuro.

Makoto: No, we should definitely share our perks. I mean, I already know everyone’s perks anyway...

Celeste: Excuse me?

Byakuya: What?

Kiyotaka: B-But... I never revealed it to you! Makoto, explain yourself!

Makoto: Uhh... It’s because of my own perk. It’s called ‘Talentless’ and it allows me to see what everyone’s perks and their status are.

Toko: Almost l-like reading up on us through your stalker forums...

Sayaka: Makoto, are you sure you’re okay revealing that?

He just says something like that outright... Did he even think of the consequences?

Kiyotaka: Since there is a clear divide, I propose we put it to vote. Do you agree, Class President Kirigiri?

Kyoko: Sure. However, I’ll be abstaining from the vote. I do not want to skew it with my opinion and I’m fine with either option.

Kiyotaka: Alright then! Who here is for everyone sharing their perks?

Taka himself raised his hand, followed by me, Junko, Makoto, Aoi, Chihiro and, surprisingly, Byakuya.

Kiyotaka: Alright. Then who would prefer we all keep our perks to ourselves?

Mondo, Celeste, Hifumi, Sakura, Sayaka, Leon, Toko and Yasuhiro all raised their hands.

Kiyotaka: I see. In that case, with vote of eight to seven, class will not be sharing perks publically!

Celeste: I would object to my perk being shared regardless.

Leon: Yeah, seriously, forcing people like that is not cool.

Aoi: But! Can we still reveal our own perks to others if we want to?

Kiyotaka: Well, I believe that is acceptable. The vote was only on making everyone reveal theirs!

Kyoko: And do not harass anyone in attempts to find out their perk.

Sakura: That much was a given.

Sayaka: In that case, is there anything else we should be doing?

Chihiro: Oh! We should gather more Hope Fragments for Usami.

Kyoko: Sure. I will look around and investigate some more. By the way, some extra places opened up overnight. The door in the supermarket and the Entertainment Center are now both open.

Yasuhiro: Entertainment Center? Sounds awesome!

Kyoko: That is all I had to say. I will be going now.

Kiyotaka: I see. Now, with Class President having finished their speech, our meeting is adjourned!

Everyone else started leaving. I decided that it would be better to explain something to Makoto, so I grabbed him by the sleeve and pulled him away from the direct exit that everyone else was going to and down to the lobby.

***

Hotel Lobby

After making sure that nobody else was around, I spoke.

Mukuro: What in the world were you thinking?

Makoto: Huh? What are you talking about, Mukuro?

Mukuro: You announcing your perk to everyone?

Makoto: Huh? Well, I didn’t think it would be a big deal.

Mukuro: It is a big deal. You do realize what you did to yourself, right?

Makoto: To myself?

Mukuro: Think for a moment. What if someone wants to commit a murder using their perk? They will see you as threat and danger and will either target you as main victim or to eliminate a potential witness.

Makoto: Mukuro? What are you talking about? Nobody here would kill! I’m sure of it!

Mukuro: Well, I warned you. You know a little important secret about everyone here. And I can see that some people... might actually be able to do it.

Makoto: I’m sorry. I just don’t want to believe that anyone here would do that. Plus, I don’t have everyone’s secret... I don’t have yours.

Mukuro: Huh?

Makoto: Your perk is ‘locked’ because you don’t remember your talent, right? And since perks are related to talents, that makes sense.

Mukuro: So you know even that. Well, I just wanted you to watch your back.

Makoto: Thanks, but I think I’ll manage. I’m trusting the others.

Mukuro: See you around.

Makoto: Stay safe, Mukuro.

He was pretty stubborn. Still, maybe it really is for the best that he revealed his knowledge. Might make others less likely to act rather than make them target him...

Well, I doubt I’m convincing him to beware any time soon, so I better go check out some of those newly unlocked places. One of those was in supermarket...

***

Ultimate Fashionista’s Lab

The locked door was the one Aoi was investigating yesterday. It was now unlocked, and on it was a fanciful plaque saying ‘Ultimate Fashionista’s Lab’. I stepped inside.

It was... a changing room. A very, very well-stocked changing room. Like, I couldn’t see the end of a giant clothing rack filled with various dresses and outfits. Not to mention a gigantic mirror and an entire display case worth of makeup...

Sayaka: Hey, Mukuro! Have you come to check out Junko’s lab too?

Mukuro: Junko’s lab... There sure are a lot of dresses...

Hifumi: As expected of the Ultimate Fashionista!

Junko: Duh-doy. Man, I was expecting something useful.

Sayaka: Do you not like it, Junko?

Junko: Nah, it’s fine. Would probably be cool to pick out something once I get bored of current outfit. Just was expecting something practical.

Mukuro: Practical how?

Junko: You know, something to help with either the killing thing or friendship thing.

Sayaka: Junko! Don’t say that!

Junko: What? I’m not saying I wanted something to help with killing, I just said I was expecting it. With ‘people’ in charge, that wasn’t particularly pessimistic, you know.

Hifumi: I can see what you mean, Miss Enoshima. You expected to be encouraged into committing a murder, because that is what our captors want us to do.

Junko: Pretty much, yea.

Sayaka: Well, I think it’s good that there’s nothing like that in the lab.

Junko: Yeah, it’s all fine and good. Now, this is kinda rude, but I don’t care. Can you two get out? I wanna chat with my sister one-on-one.

Hifumi: Two sisters wanting to be alone in a changing room... Could this be a scene of forbidden love?!

Junko: My foot will make forbidden love to your crotch if you don’t get out right now.

Hifumi: Eee! I’m sorry, Miss Enoshima, I was simply making a joke!

Sayaka: You two have fun!

With that the two left, leaving me and Junko alone.

Junko: So, what are you thinking about this?

Mukuro: It’s weird. It’s like we’re pawns and there are two people struggling to control us each in their own direction.

Junko: Well, there are sixteen of us, perfect for a chess analogy. I am calling being a rook!

Mukuro: A rook? Not a queen?

Junko: Pft. Queens get traded for advantages in midgame. Rooks win the lategame! Do you even play the game?

Mukuro: Sorry, I don’t think I have in a while...

Junko: Well, that’s why I’m the better child. So, who do you think would be best to kill if it came down to it?

Mukuro: ...probably Makoto or Chihiro. Both are very weak physically and very gullible.

Junko: Hm, not going for more risky ones? I think that baseball guy and idol girl would make better options. Trickier, but also more wiggle room.

Mukuro: I thought you’d go for smarter ones, like Byakuya or Kyoko.

Junko: Kyoko? Do I look like I have a death wish?

Mukuro: Well, you did bring up the idea of who could be killed.

Junko: Yeah. But with the way rules are set up, it’s pretty much impossible to not get caught, even if you go for safe ones. Not to mention, I don’t really feel like having conscience nagging at me for rest of my life if I sacrifice you to get out.

Mukuro: I love you too, Junko.

Junko: Ugh, please tell me that was ironic. I can never tell with you.

Mukuro: Anyway, what is your perk?

Junko: Oh? It’s simple. It’s ‘Changing Room’. Apparently I can lock any door anywhere on the island and keep it locked. Even if I don’t have a key, and even if the door doesn’t have a lock.

Mukuro: Huh. That sounds useful.

Junko: But only defensively. Plus, I can’t keep more than one door locked and to lock it, I need to have contact with it.

Mukuro: I wonder how it locks doors without locks...

Junko: Magnet locks, dummy!

Mukuro: Oh... that makes sense.

Junko: Well, that’s what I’m assuming at least. Anyway, what about your head? Got any of those memories back?

Mukuro: No, sorry. Even my perk says I can’t use it until I remember my talent.

Junko: Well, someone’s at a disadvantage already. Still, with everyone having different perks, I do wonder if someone has something completely useless or something unfairly advantageous.

Mukuro: What are you planning to do now?

Junko: I am planning to dig through this wardrobe and get the best back to my cottage. What about you?

Mukuro: I was thinking of checking what the Entertainment Center is all about.

Junko: Yuck, probably something pink and annoying. You have ‘fun’ there.

Mukuro: See you around, Junko.

Junko: Don’t forget to take a bath!

***

Entertainment Center

Well, this building was a bit out of place. I saw it when me and Makoto were looking around the island for everyone, but it was locked then so I didn’t really pay attention. It just looked like some sort of mall-like building with a large sign... Well, I guess heading inside is the only way to learn more.

Within was... A huge arcade. A bunch of cabinets with various games all around the place, and a huge prize machine in the middle. There were also two notable offshoots. One had a big sign saying Casino above it, and the other was The Great Supernova. Huh.

Well, for starters, let’s chat with people in here.

Mukuro: Hey, guys. What is this place?

Kyoko: It looks like a game center.

Leon: Aw, man, look! They’ve got all the latest stuff!

Chihiro: I checked the machines... None of them look connected to the internet.

Mukuro: That’s too bad... We might’ve been able to call for help otherwise.

Chihiro: I’m sorry...

Kyoko: It’s not your fault, Chihiro.

Mukuro: Oh, what’s that machine in the middle?

Leon: That’s the MonoMono Machine! According to label, you put in monocoins and just get prizes! And you can either find monocoins around or earn them here! This place is hella fun!

Kyoko: Don’t get too attached.

Leon: Hey, can’t a guy enjoy himself a little?

Mukuro: But we still are not going to stay here that long.

Leon: Which means we have to make full use of this vacation!

Mukuro: Sigh... Kyoko, what’s up with those two places?

Kyoko: Oh, they’re Ultimate Labs.

Mukuro: What is this whole Ultimate Lab thing anyway? I saw the one in the Supermarket and it was Junko’s but... I don’t really get it.

Kyoko: Supposedly it’s a place where you can hone your Ultimate Talent.

Leon: Man, mine is probably going to be a baseball field...

Chihiro: Is that bad...?

Leon: Eh, it’s okay I guess. Not like I’m planning to use it anyway.

Mukuro: Huh... I wonder if I can find out my talent when my lab unlocks...

Chihiro: Oh, did anyone see Usami or Monokuma since morning? Sayaka mentioned seeing Usami... But I’d expect they would show up more.

Kyoko: No. I do believe they’re still busy fighting for control of the trip.

Mukuro: That’s for the best. The less we have to deal with them the better.

Chihiro: I hope Usami will win...

Leon: Does it matter? We just collect the Fragments and go home, what else is there?

Kyoko: I doubt Monokuma specifically wants that outcome.

Leon: Well, it doesn’t matter what he wants. Rules say we leave after we have fragments, right? So, we just collect them and ignore Monokuma. Then nobody has to die!

Kyoko: That would be the best outcome. However, I doubt it will be achievable without at least some interference.

Chihiro: You think that Monokuma might try to do something else?

Mukuro: I think that’s obviously to be expected.

Kyoko: Anyway, the others are in the labs themselves.

Mukuro: I think I’ll go check it out. Thanks, Kyoko.

Kyoko: Take care.

***

Ultimate Clairvoyant’s Lab

The Great Supernova was apparently Yasuhiro’s lab, according to the plaque. And it looked like inside of a fortune telling tent... Complete with way too many carpets, pillows instead of chairs and a big crystal ball. And quite a bit of unusual trinkets, placed on wall and pedestals.

Yasuhiro: Oh, hey, Mukuro! Isn’t this place rad?

Mukuro: It looks... all mystic-like?

Yasuhiro: Yeah! It’s a perfect place! Man, too bad none of you guys have any money. I’d love to give out readings!

Kiyotaka: Yasuhiro, do you only ever use your talent for money?

Yasuhiro: Of course not! I also do readings for myself. And I’m planning on publishing them at one point!

Mukuro: Publishing your readings?

Yasuhiro: Yeah. Imagine that... Twelve Thousand Prophecies of Supernova!

Kiyotaka: But... If they are all related to yourself, what is the point of publishing them?

Yasuhiro: Well, you know how famous clairvoyants publish the collections of their prophecies? Same way. And it doesn’t matter what they’re related to. What matters is that they’re real prophecies!

Mukuro: So, you’re planning to sell a bunch of completely unrelated fortune tellings you did for yourself to people, and even then only thirty percent of it is correct?

Yasuhiro: I won’t be the one making them buy it! If the people choose to believe me, then it’s entirely their responsibility.

Kiyotaka: I admire your thriftiness, but I do not appreciate the idea of misleading people!

Yasuhiro: Fortune telling is serious business. Getting misled by accident is just part of that business.

Mukuro: Yeah, we get it. You’re in it for money.

Yasuhiro: Hey, I also want to promote my abilities! It’s rare to have a fortune teller of my caliber not be affiliated with some brand!

Kiyotaka: I do believe that being unaffiliated in such a way has certain moral high ground, but it is counteracted by other factors!

Yasuhiro: Don’t worry about it! I’m just a thousand prophecies away from getting to total of twelve thousand!

Mukuro: Why twelve thousand though? Why not make a book every thousand prophecies you make?

Yasuhiro: Because it’d be bad luck! Numbers matter. Way more than you think! There are good numbers and bad numbers. And twelve is very special number!

Update! Earned Yasuhiro’s 2nd Hope Fragment.

Mukuro: I see... Well, good luck here.

Kiyotaka: I still do not understand how fortune telling is related to school success, but I will stay here until I figure it out!

Yasuhiro: Well, that’ll take a while. See you around, Mukuro!

***

Ultimate Gambler’s Lab

The Casino had two plaques on it. Ultimate Gambler’s Lab and Ultimate Lucky Student’s Lab... I guess the talents are rather similar. And selection of entertainment inside the casino was rather different as well. Tables for card games, slot machines, roulette... Most peculiar thing was difference in style. While main hall of Entertainment Center was colorful and bright, the Casino was much darker, and even visually richer, with intricate patterns and gothic-looking portraits.

Celeste: Are you enjoying my lab? I do find its appearance extremely appealing myself.

Mukuro: Yeah... It’s different from way I’d imagined casino looks.

Celeste: Well, I can confirm that usually they look more like the main part of this building. But I really can’t help but appreciate the stylistic choice of this specific place.

Makoto: So, that means that we technically share this place, right, Celeste?

Celeste: Well, considering the similarities between our talents, I would expect that.

Mukuro: What would the difference even be? Between being good gambler and being lucky?

Celeste: It’s simple, really. Gambling takes more than luck. And luck applies in more than gambling.

Mukuro: Does it really take more than luck?

Celeste: But of course. Even in slots and roulette there are strategies to be found. Luck-reliant, in part, but strategies. And in real card games, even if luck is involved, skill at reading others and not letting yourself be read can be a much more powerful tool.

Makoto: So, if luck really is that different from gambling... Why am I sharing a lab with you, Celeste?

Celeste: Presumably, because it is the easiest way to accurately ‘measure’ one’s luck.

Mukuro: Huh... Speaking of, how lucky are you, Makoto?

Makoto: Well... I wouldn’t really call myself that lucky. If anything, I’m usually more unlucky than anything.

Mukuro: But you did get picked for Hope’s Peak Academy via a lottery, right?

Celeste: And it coincided with students getting kidnapped into a killing game.

Makoto: Celeste... do you think it’s actually for real?

Celeste: It’s hard to say. I simply go along with whatever reality presents to me and try to make the best of it. That is what adaptability is about.

Makoto: So... you’re saying you aren’t actually planning on killing anyone?

Celeste: Of course not.

Mukuro: But you would say that even if you were.

Celeste: Obviously. Still, what I said about adaptability is true. This island is far from truly luxurious, but there are things to enjoy about it. I do recommend you try and enjoy it as well.

Mukuro: Why? Shouldn’t we be focusing on getting out?

Celeste: Well, if we do happen to go along with the more friendly approach, it will take way more time. And I doubt becoming closer to others is easy if you constantly remain on edge. At that point, you either need to be better at masking your doubts, or find a way to relax.

Mukuro: And which are you doing?

Celeste: Both. Of course, I am concerned for my wellbeing. Everyone here is a stranger after all. But I also understand when I am safe and when I am not, so I can allow myself to relax at certain moments .

Celeste: It’s same as gambling, really. Sometimes being genuine when your opponents least expect it is the best way to throw them for a loop. Especially if they’ve been doubting your every move so far.

Makoto: So you’re saying you might be lying to us about how you feel... Or you might not?

Celeste: Well, I am not called Queen of Liars for nothing. You’d be right to doubt every word I say.

Makoto: No. I don’t want to believe that you’re lying.

Celeste: And why not? Maybe I am simply trying to lure you into full sense of security? Make you believe that I am a safe person to be around?

Makoto: Well... I...

Mukuro: Because there are countless better ways to do that, that’s why. You are making us doubt you intentionally, instead of trying to earn trust.

Celeste: I see you noticed that. At some point, I’d like to have a game of chance with both of you.

Makoto: Huh? Why?

Celeste: I wish to test your luck and Mukuro’s intelligence. Simple as that. It’s important to know capabilities of people around you, whether they’re a friend or not after all.

Update! Earned Celeste’s 2nd Hope Fragment.

Mukuro: I see... Maybe when there is someone to man the tables.

Celeste: Yes. That is the main obstacle at the moment.

Makoto: Well... I would enjoy that. Although I doubt I’d be able to win.

Mukuro: Anyway, I’ve just checked to see what this place is like. I’ll go now.

Celeste: Farewell, Mukuro.

Makoto: See you later!

By the time we were done, it was second half of the day. I had lunch at cafeteria and decided to spend the rest of the day walking around, searching for... something. To help us get out.

***

Jabberwock Park

Eventually, I checked everywhere on the First Island, and moved on to Central Island. Those giant beasts were around... They were guarding the bridges to other islands. What’s the point of that if the gates are locked anyway? Well, this island only had one noteworthy place, and that’s the park.

Which... changed. Of course, we all saw statue get destroyed. But now there was something else in its place. And I wasn’t the only one to notice it.

Mukuro: What... is that?

Mondo: It looks like a f*cking bomb!

Sakura: Timer on it does not leave much to interpretation either.

Mukuro: Should we... disarm it? Or try to?

Byakuya: Do you want to risk doing that and blowing us all to smithereens? You have to be joking.

Mukuro: Well, we have to do something!

Mondo: Hell yeah... But... What the hell do even do about a bomb? Does anyone here know how to defuse sh*t?

Sakura: Not to my knowledge.

Byakuya: It is a bold assumption that it’s a bomb in the first place.

Sakura: Why do you believe it’s something else?

Byakuya: Because if it’s a bomb, then it’s a very useless one.

Mondo: The f*ck do you mean?!

Mukuro: I think I get it... We could just stay away from it when timer runs out and avoid the blast, right?

Byakuya: Well, looks like amnesia left something in there. Yes, that is what I believe.

Mondo: But that thing is f*cking huge! It could blow the whole island away!

Byakuya: Then we just remain on the First Island. Is it that hard to comprehend?

Sakura: And if the blast is large enough to hit even there?

Byakuya: Then it would have to be a nuclear bomb. Which I severely doubt.

Mondo: Still... That f*cking timer is ominous sh*t.

Byakuya: We’ll just have to wait and see. Although, since it has several weeks of time left, I do doubt anyone will get to see the result.

Mukuro: What makes you say that?

Byakuya: I take my words back. You are still an idiot if you believe nobody will attempt to escape beforehand.

Mondo: The f*ck you just say?

Byakuya: What a wonderful meat circus has gathered here, discussing topics of bomb logistics. None of you get it, do you? This is a killing game we were dragged into. I don’t know why or by whom. But they are not going to blow us up after preparing everything else.

Mukuro: Meat circus?!

Mondo: I’ll knock some sense into you, you pompous dickhe*d!

Sakura: Stop it, both of you. He’s just trying to get to you.

Byakuya: And it worked first try. Amazing. I look forward to one of you becoming the first blackened and getting executed due to some emotional incompetence.

Mukuro: What, do you have the entire game laid out in your head already?

Byakuya: As a matter of fact, I do, assuming the stupid mascots do not interfere any longer. And it ends with me being the sole escapee.

Mondo: You son of a bitch!

Sakura: Mondo.

Mondo: Can’t you hear the sh*t he’s saying?!

Byakuya: Well, I’d love to educate you idiots more, but my time is worth more than that. And I don’t feel like staying to observe the brawl either.

With that, Byakuya left the park, as Sakura had to hold Mondo by the shoulder, and I had to mentally stop myself from running after him to give him a beating. Prick.

Mondo: What if he’s actually f*cking serious? And is going to kill someone?

Sakura: He is extremely prideful and arrogant. But he is not foolish. He wouldn’t try that before letting someone else take the fall.

Mukuro: So you think he will wait until other people fail before trying on his own?

Sakura: Indeed.

Mondo: sh*t... Sorry I acted like an idiot... In front of two girls too.

Mukuro: What does it matter if we’re girls? We can stand up for ourselves.

Mondo: Well, it’s not f*cking manly to act like that! And it doesn’t matter if you’re strong! You two are still chicks, and that means I gotta protect you.

Mukuro: Big damn hero.

Sakura: It’s nice to hear that, Mondo.

Mukuro: I could totally beat him up myself. I almost did when I first met him.

Mondo: You too? Damn. I thought I was the only one who had to be dragged away from him.

Sakura: Byakuya is not the most pleasant person. However, I do not believe that his exterior is all there is to it.

Mukuro: Well, his exterior has a very punchable face!

Sakura: Calm down, Mukuro. This isn’t worth it.

Mukuro: Fine, whatever.

Mondo: Sorry I got a bit heated... And I didn’t mean to say you two are weak or some sh*t. I can tell that both of you are tough as hell!

Mondo: But my brother has taught me that a man must always protect women! And I made a promise to be like that!

Sakura: It was nice of you stand up for us.

Mukuro: That’s quite a promise. Didn’t think bikers have such manners nowadays.

Mondo: Hey, we might be enjoying some good riding and reminding the streets who’s in charge, but we ain’t just thugs. Crazy Diamonds is not about that!

Mukuro: Then... what is it about?

Mondo: It’s about strength. And being strong means knowing when and how to use that strength! We ain’t gonna beat up some weak kids or girls. Only those that f*cking deserve it!

Sakura: That is admirable.

Mukuro: So you’re more delinquents than gangsters...

Mondo: Of course. What do you take us for, those crazy Kuzuryu mobsters? We’re just a bunch of dudes with passion! And desire to enjoy that passion no matter what some stupid idiots say! There’s nothing better than riding your hog at full speed with straight pipe... That’s what life is f*cking about!

Mukuro: Huh... You make your gang almost sound noble. As weird as it is to say that.

Update! Earned Mondo’s 2nd Hope Fragment.

Sakura: Well, I doubt we will earn any new information about the bomb just looking at it.

Mukuro: Does Kyoko know about it?

Mondo: She’s the one who told me it’s here, but she said it shouldn’t be a big deal.

Mukuro: She’s probably thinking same thing as Byakuya... That if it really is a bomb, we can just wait it out on another island.

Sakura: Let us hope that it simply isn’t a bomb then.

Mukuro: Yeah... that’d be the best case scenario.

With that the three of us said goodbyes and split up. I continued looking around for a bit, but didn’t see anything noteworthy.

***

Mukuro’s Cottage

As evening came, I got some dinner and came back to my cottage. Today was surprisingly more peaceful... Maybe we can avoid worst-case-scenario in the long run. Who knows?

Ding Dong Bing Bong

Or not. The monitor in my room lit up...

Usami: Good evening, everyone!

Monokuma: It is now 10 PM!

Usami: So, we were busy fighting all day...

Monokuma: But we reached a compromise!

Usami: Please gather in the cafeteria tomorrow by 9 AM!

Monokuma: Good night...

Usami: And have nice dreams!

Monokuma: Bleh...

Usami: I’m not wishing them to be scared!

Monokuma Well you should!

Usami: You mean Monokuma!

Monokuma: You stupid rabbit!

Click!

Compromise, huh? Well, I guess we’ll have to hear them out tomorrow. For now, I should go to sleep...

***

Monokuma Theater

Grah! That stupid rabbit! Rabbits are dumb! Rabbits are weak! Rabbits are best non-poultry diet meat! Why did she interfere like that?

Wait, are we on already? Uhh... sorry, I was a bit busy trying to wrestle one dumb long-eared rival of mine and forgot to write a script for today’s theater. So it’s time for improv!

Uhh... Compromises! Yes, today’s theme is compromises. What does it mean to make a compromise? Well, it’s simple. It means NOBODY is happy! It means that we take away what each side wants from the result until both sides are equally unhappy with it!

Huh? Making them equally happy instead? Why, if that was possible, there wouldn’t be a need to compromise in the first place! We don’t compromise to make sure our opponent gets more, we compromise to make sure we aren’t getting less! So we just take away from their keep until we are satisfied.

It’s only fair, after all. And being fair often matters more than everyone being in benefit!

Chapter 4: Chapter 1 – Panic at Despair Beach – Daily Life 2

Chapter Text

Ding-dong! Ding-dong!

My morning routine was interrupted by the doorbell’s ringing. Opening the door I was surprised to see...

Aoi: Good morning, Mukuro! So, you up for a morning jog?

Mukuro: Huh? You’re still planning to do that?

Aoi: Of course! It’s always more fun to do it with multiple people! We can even take it easy and chat on the way.

Mukuro: I see. I just thought the idea was out of the window with the whole... kill each other thing.

Aoi: Of course not! Plus, I don’t believe anyone would kill anyone.

Mukuro: Alright. Then sure, let’s go.

Aoi: Yeah! Come on, Sakura is waiting by the hotel gates!

Mukuro: Sakura’s coming too?

Aoi: Of course! I asked Junko, Sayaka and Chihiro too, but none of them wanted to, so... It’s just us three!

Mukuro: Alright then. I'm already warmed up, I guess.

***

First Island Roads

Our route was a lap around the First Island’s road. Normally I’d go faster than this, but since Aoi and Sakura wanted to chat a little on the way, taking it slow was fine.

Sakura: I see you’re used to regular exercise, Hina.

Aoi: Yeah! I gotta get the energy out somehow! Of course, swimming is great, but I will save that for later! Jogs are important to build up endurance too!

Sakura: You as well, Mukuro. You were already exercising when Hina came to ask you to join, weren’t you?

Mukuro: Yeah, I was. I’m used to waking up early and training until the actual wake-up call.

Aoi: Did you always do that?

Mukuro: No, I don’t think so. I started about...

Blank. But I... I was used to this! I’ve always done this. Right? But why? When did I start? It was just... instinct to me to do the exercise, I didn’t even consider—

Aoi: You okay, Mukuro? You looked kind of scary here for a moment.

Mukuro: Sorry... Just another memory blank. Seems to be happening a lot lately.

Sakura: You have a very intense expression when you are in thought.

Aoi: Wait! Does that mean that your daily exercises are related to your talent?

Mukuro: Well... That might be it.

Aoi: Yes, of course it is! You don’t remember anything about your talent and you don’t remember why you started exercising!

Sakura: Perhaps if we try various athletic activities, we can find out what your talent was?

Mukuro: If only it were that easy. The exercise came to me so naturally that I didn’t even realize I didn’t remember the reason.

Sakura: Perhaps it is related to fighting in some way?

Mukuro: Maybe...

Aoi: Oh! Maybe you’re like, the Ultimate Gymnast or something? Something that requires general exercise and doesn’t have any specific direction?

Sakura: Do not underestimate gymnastics, Hina. Routines can have a lot of intricacy to them.

Mukuro: ...nope, either my memory is gone for good or it’s just not enough to jog it.

Aoi: Sorry about that, Mukuro.

Mukuro: It’s not your fault. I just wish I could at least know why it’s missing...

Sakura: It is a shame that there are no sports facilities on the island. Perhaps if there were, we could try to figure out there.

Aoi: Hey, that might be on other islands! I wonder what we have to do to open those though.

Sakura: Hopefully defeating those beasts is not the requirement. I doubt that even all of us working together would be able to take one on.

Mukuro: Maybe if we could make some sort of explosive...

Sakura: I doubt that is possible with our resources either.

Aoi: That sounds way too dangerous anyway! Plus, I trust Usami. I’m sure that once we befriend each other she’ll help us get back home!

Mukuro: I’m more worried about things happening before that point can be reached...

Sakura: Your fears are not unfounded. However, you shouldn’t let them control you.

Mukuro: Fine... By the way, you’re keeping up pretty well, Aoi.

Aoi: Of course! I love running. I mean, not as much as I love swimming, but I love it!

Mukuro: So you’re into both?

Aoi: Not just both! I was on track team, swimming team, volleyball team, basketball team...

Mukuro: That’s a lot of sports.

Aoi: Well, I have a lot of energy that I love spending!

Sakura: Be wary to not aggravate your habits. You eat a lot and you move a lot. It can be a detriment or a weakness both.

Mukuro: How about you, Sakura? How did you get into martial arts?

Sakura: Saying I got into it on my own would not be entirely true. I was moreso born into it, as my family owns a dojo.

Mukuro: Oh, like one of those traditional ones?

Sakura: Indeed. I have been trained since the moment I could stand on my own. I won’t say the journey wasn’t enjoyable, however.

Aoi: Wow! That sounds so cool, Sakura!

Mukuro: I heard you won many martial arts tournaments overseas...

Sakura: Indeed. Still, I am not the strongest person in the world yet.

Mukuro: Yet...?

Sakura: Yes. I know the truly strongest personally. And I plan to fight them for their title some day.

Aoi: Well, I’ll be rooting for you when that day comes, Sakura!

Mukuro: That will be a fight to see, alright.

Sakura: Thank you both. It has been a while since I’ve been able to just chat with other girls like that.

Aoi: No problem! We’re friends after all!

Update! Earned Aoi’s 2nd Hope Fragment. Earned Sakura’s 2nd Hope Fragment.

We continued jogging, though we all went our own paces. Sakura went faster than me while Aoi lagged behind a little. Still, we kept up our little exercise around the island until...

Ding Dong Bing Bong!

Usami: Hello, everyone! This is a school trip announcement! It is now 8 AM! Another wonderful morning in tropical paradise! Time to wake up and be ready to cultivate wonderful hope!

Usami: Oh, and please don’t forget that there will be a special teacher-student meeting in the Mirai Hotel’s restaurant at 9 AM! Please don’t be late!

Click!

I finished the last circle around the island and went back into the hotel grounds, proceeding to the restaurant. The others caught up behind me soon after and several other people were just leaving cottages as I passed by.

***

Hotel Restaurant

Well, this time everyone showed up on time. Once again, the food was all ready and served, and this time everyone was just grabbing it without much care. Makes sense, since we know it’s not poisoned by now. There wasn’t much in terms of meaningful conversation going on as we had breakfast. Taka was telling Mondo to sit properly, Makoto and Sayaka just casually chatting, Toko sneering at Hifumi’s attempt to socialize... Nothing too noteworthy. Everyone was anticipating the eventual appearance of the weird toy things. Wait, on my six...

Junko: Haii!

Mukuro: Gah! Junko! Don’t jump me like that!

Junko: Oh, phsht. What, can’t I give my least favorite sister a surprise hug?

Mukuro: You don’t have to sneak up on me like that.

Junko: Well, tables here can seat only four people, and you are sitting alone instead of with the little harem protagonist over there. Sorry, girl, Kyoko’s already got the kuudere niche covered way more than you can.

Mukuro: I don’t have a crush on him, Junko! And I have no idea what you’re even saying with these words...

Junko: Then why were you staring at him from across the restaurant? Trust me, I’ve seen the way people stare at me when I’m making public appearances.

Mukuro: It’s not like that.

Kyoko: I heard my name?

Kyoko was there, holding a tray of food.

Junko: Ohai, Ms. Class President. We were just talking about how pretty Makoto is.

Kyoko: Do you mind if I sit with you two then? I’d prefer not to look like I’m distancing myself from others.

Mukuro: Sure, you’re welcome at our table, Kyoko.

Kyoko: Thank you.

With that, Kyoko sat down with us, beginning her breakfast too.

Junko: So, what about your opinions on the hoodie boy, Kyoko?

Mukuro: Junko, stop lying, we weren’t talking about his appearance!

Junko: But you’d like to.

Mukuro: No!

Kyoko: I can’t say anything specific about his appearance.

Junko: ...that seems to imply you have something to say about other aspects~

Kyoko: Perhaps. But it’d be rude to talk about it like that.

Yasuhiro: Rude to talk about what?

Without even asking, Yasuhiro took the final seat at our table, loudly putting down his tray and sitting down, looking at the three of us with a smile.

Yasuhiro: What? Did I say something wrong?

Junko: Wow. Just wow. I don’t even have words.

Mukuro: Nevermind...

Kyoko: Good morning to you as well, Yasuhiro.

Yasuhiro: Yeah, it’s been great! Tropical sun, sea breeze! What’s not to love?

Mukuro: You’re not concerned?

Yasuhiro: About what?

Kyoko: Mukuro, there’s no need for that. I understand your concerns, and wariness is important, but paranoia is unnecessary.

Junko: She’s got a point though. How come you’re completely ‘chill’ with it, ‘dude’?

Yasuhiro: Man, if I got concerned every time something weird like that happened, my hair would be grey and I’d be bald!

Mukuro: Those... are mutually exclusive.

Kyoko: Do you often have run-ins with potentially deadly situations?

Yasuhiro: Deadly? Wait, you guys seriously think this whole thing is for real?

He looked between all of us again, as we looked back with deadpan looks.

Yasuhiro: Come on. Maybe it’s a little dangerous, but there’s no way a killing can actually happen. That’s just unreasonable!

Kyoko: I see.

Junko: And here I thought you don’t get any more naïve than Makoto...

Yasuhiro: Huh? Well, thanks!

Mukuro: I don’t think that was a compliment...

Before we could continue the conversation, there was a bright flash of pink and red... And Monokuma and Usami appeared in the middle of the restaurant, everyone standing up and turning their heads towards them.

Usami: Greetings, dear students!

Monokuma: Good morning, you rascals!

Byakuya: Finally.

Toko: So? W-Will you explain what is happening now?

Usami: Of course!

Monokuma: Okay, basically, what is happening is Usami sucks so much that she can’t even lose right!

Usami: Hey! You’re the one that interrupted our wonderful little trip!

Monokuma: It was super boring!

Hifumi: And there they go fighting again...

Monokuma: Yeah, you hear that? Back to explanation!

Usami: You’re the one who interrupted it!

Monokuma: Shut up! Anyway, so we fought for a while and realized that we can’t really beat each other. So we reached a compromise instead!

Usami: Since neither of us can run the school trip they want... We’ll just take turns! While it’s still horrible that Monokuma gets his way half the time, this is important lesson in friendship and compromises, kids!

Monokuma: Each day, one of us two gets to be in main charge of you lot. While the other takes a backseat and watches.

Usami: Of course, I made sure Monokuma can’t add any more mean rules!

Monokuma: And I made sure Usami can’t add any annoying friendly rules! Bleh!

Leon: So, uhh... What about the whole kill each other thing? That cancelled then?

Monokuma: Of course it isn’t. Thrills, chills, kills!

Usami: No, don’t listen to him! Please, just collect the Hope Fragments and everything will be just fine. I promise!

Monokuma: Jeez, stop being so saccharine! The fat one will die if he gets diabetes from you!

Hifumi: I’ll have you know, my weight is entirely harmless and not at all unhealthy!

Toko: I f-find that hard to believe...

Usami: Anyway. Monokuma, we did it, announcement is made. Now, today is my day to run the school trip! And the Heart-Throbbing School Trip can finally continue.

Monokuma: Like I’d want to stick around for something like that! See you bastards tomorrow, I’ll prepare a good event for you. More stimulating than anything the stupid rabbit can imagine. Puhuhuhu...

With that, Monokuma ran off, leaving us with just Usami.

Usami: See? You don’t have to fight each other anymore! With mutual trust and friendship we can—

Byakuya: I assume the rules about murder and trial still stand?

Makoto: Byakuya!

Usami: W-Well... Nobody can remove the rules and as teacher, I have to enforce them in some way... B-But! Why would you want to kill if you can just get along with everyone? That’s way nicer.

Byakuya: Then I am still considering this situation a killing game, even right now.

Usami: Uwah!

Aoi: What are you saying? Usami’s around right now and she’ll make sure we’re fine!

Chihiro: Yeah... I trust she’ll protect us and make sure we’re safe.

Celeste: That is a foolish belief. Our guard shouldn’t be lowered.

Makoto: Celeste, not you too...

Kyoko: She’s right.

Kiyotaka: Class President?

Kyoko: I don’t agree with Byakuya, of course. Avoiding any deaths would be for the benefit of everyone here. However, we shouldn’t simply lower our guards just because a different toy is overseeing us. As long as all of us simply stay on guard and don’t do anything stupid, we can be safe without getting blindsided.

Toko: Y-Yasuhiro won’t last long if that’s true...

Yasuhiro: Hey! I’m always on guard! Do you know how many psychics tried to challenge my talent?

Usami: Well... As long as you kids stay safe and don’t fight, I guess it’s the best I can do.

Mondo: So, the f*ck is happening now?

Leon: Yeah, you’re in charge now, right? Are you going to try and make another beach party or something?

Usami: Uwah... I was so busy trying to fight Monokuma I didn’t even prepare anything for today! But taking an easy day is always good too.

Sakura: Some more time to get adjusted to our circ*mstance...

Chihiro: Yeah... I don’t think I can handle any more big events...

Hifumi: But what about the day after Monokuma’s?

Kiyotaka: That’s right! We have to be planning ahead of schedule if we wish to succeed at the goal of escaping through power of mutual student bond!

Sayaka: I think we should throw a party. Just to get all our minds off of what’s happening.

Leon: Yeah! And we should totally do it outside. The cool ocean air and all.

Aoi: Oh! Oh! Can we involve the pool in the hotel courtyard? It could be a pool party!

Yasuhiro: Yeah! Under the stars too. Blessing of the Zodiac and all that.

Hifumi: A pool party lasting through the night? That goes against every trope convention!

Makoto: Huh? What do you mean, Hifumi?

Hifumi: Don’t you understand, Mister Naegi? Pool parties are meant to happen in the bright sunlight of the day, to highlight the beauty of swimsuits!

Kyoko: A distraction like that wouldn’t be unwelcome, as long as all proper precautions are taken.

Junko: Welp, I guess we’re throwing pool parties now. I hope we skip the friendship bracelets step, I totally suck at arts-and-crafts.

Chihiro: Friendship bracelets are about the thought you put into them, not about how well-made they are...

Mukuro: Do you know a lot about those, Chihiro?

Chihiro: Oh, sorry... Not really, I just read about it...

Toko: What? Those are a real thing? I thought they w-were only a thing for sappy manga tropes.

Byakuya: Well, if this is the direction of the conversation now, I’d prefer to save what sanity I have remaining.

Without even saying goodbye, Byakuya left the restaurant.

Mukuro: Dick...

Kiyotaka: Mukuro, language!

Junko: Yeah, what the hell, Mukuro? Just ‘dick’? That best you can manage? I have half a mind to say that we aren’t sisters anymore.

Kiyotaka: That’s not what I meant at all!

Makoto: Siblings shouldn’t fight like that...

Aoi: Oh, but I hope everyone will come to the pool party right? Other than Byakuya, of course.

Sakura: I’d be glad to spend time with all of you.

Sayaka: It sounds nice, Hina.

Leon: Yeah! Partying at the poolside through the night!

Hifumi: Well, I suppose moonlight has its own charm...

Mukuro: Sure, I’m down.

Junko: Eh, not like much else is going on around here.

Makoto: Of course I’ll come too!

Mondo: Well, there’s gotta be at least one real man at that party.

Leon: Hey!

Yasuhiro: You know what, I’m coming too! But drinks better be good.

Kyoko: I’ll do my best to help organize, but don’t expect me to do all the work.

Sayaka: What about you, girls? Chihiro, Toko, Celeste?

Chihiro: I’m sorry... I don’t really like anything related to swimming...

Aoi: Aw, but that’s okay! You can just relax at the poolside.

Chihiro: Thanks, but... I think I’ll pass.

Celeste: I shall turn the invitation down as well. While I do enjoy the luxury of the trip as a whole, event such as that would simply be not to my tastes.

Toko: You just want all perverted g-guys to stare at me as I swim? And c-comment on how disgusting my body is? No w-way!

Kiyotaka: I have a question! How is pool party conductive to our productivity as students?

Leon: Not everything in life has to be about studying, dude.

Sakura: Indeed. Even the most rigorous form of training includes proper breaks.

Kiyotaka: All the more reason to question the usual resting time – nighttime – being used for the event!

Usami: Oh, Taka, it’s simple! Think of it as overnight cram session. And topic of lesson is your classmates. Get closer to them and you’ll earn the best and only mark you can get! A Hope Fragment!

Kiyotaka: An overnight cram session? Of course! Why didn’t I see it sooner? The brain moved into full overdrive for best memorization!

Mondo: Man, that thing tricks him so easily...

Yasuhiro: See, I’m not the stupidest one here!

Kiyotaka: I will happily attend the overnight bonding event the day after tomorrow and do my best to both succeed myself and help everyone else succeed!

Mukuro: What defines ‘success’ at a party again?

Junko: Shush, or he’ll snap out of it.

Kyoko: Well, more people willing to help would be for the best. Right now the place isn’t best-suited for something like that.

Aoi: But the plan’s settled, right? Usami, we can have an overnight pool party on your next day, right?

Usami: So much initiative... Sniff... I’m so proud of you all! I’ll do the best I can to prepare for that day! But for now you kids should relax and enjoy the sea. And make good friends with one another!

And with that, in a pink flash, Usami was gone. How was she doing that?

Celeste: Well, while I certainly won’t be participating, I wish you luck in preparing. I will be taking my leave now.

Leon: I guess that’s the plan for now.

Toko: Hmph...

Hifumi: Hm... I should pick out a better swimsuit for myself. One Miss Usami provided was bit too tight...

Mondo: I think there was a camping tent section at the supermarket for that.

Hifumi: Eh? What is that supposed to mean?!

Yasuhiro: I think I’ll go and make some more personal predictions! For the good fortune, of course!

Kyoko: I’ll continue my investigation. Don’t do anything stupid.

Leon: Hey, Sayaka, want to go hang out by the airport?

Sayaka: Sorry, I already wanted to spend some time with Makoto. Maybe another time?

Makoto: Hey, come on, Sayaka, we can all be together, right?

Mukuro: Yeah, nothing is stopping you guys from being all together at once.

Sayaka: Mukuro, not you too...

Leon: So...

Sayaka: Sure, you can come as well.

Leon: Sweet!

Chihiro: I’ll just be in my cottage... In case anyone will be looking for me.

With that everyone started leaving the restaurant. All in all... productive morning. I got closer with someone, then had a good meal, then learned something and now I have plans for the day after tomorrow. I guess I can take it easy at least until the lunch...

***

Junko’s Cottage

Wondering around the island after the lunch, I somehow ended up in Junko’s cottage. I guess it was good to catch up with my sister, even if her stories were rather boring...

Junko: ...and like, that guy was an absolute creep, he wanted me to wear something he called a mini-mini-skirt, what he believed would be the newest in slu*t fashion trends, but it was basically a string you put around your waist that showed everything and—hey, smelly, are you even listening?!

Mukuro: Huh? Sorry, I wasn’t really focused.

Junko: Did you eat balloons for lunch or something?

Mukuro: No, I had some simple noodles...

Junko: Then why is your head is fuller of air than usual?

Mukuro: I guess I’m just a bit worried about everything.

Junko: You’re still hung up on the killing game? Jeez, relax a little, enjoy the island life?

Mukuro: I’m just worried.

Junko: What? Worried about someone killing you?

Mukuro: No, I’m pretty sure I could fight off most people here...

Junko: About someone killing me?

Mukuro: Junko, please...

Junko: Ooh! You’re worried because you have your own plans to kill!

Mukuro: Of course not!

Junko: Then maaaybe... you’re worried about someone committing a murder and getting away with it?

Mukuro: I’m pretty sure that’s impossible in our situation.

Junko: Well, then you have nothing to worry about. What got you so hung up?

Mukuro: That someone will get killed.

Junko: You’re worried about these dorks? Really?

Mukuro: They aren’t bad people, Junko.

Junko: Maybe. But they’re boring and I don’t really care. I guess the plain boy has a bit of charm and the overconfident snobs are fun to mess with for a little, but that’s about it. Maaaybe the detective girl too.

Mukuro: Snobs?

Junko: Rich boy and Lolita girl.

Mukuro: Byakuya’s a complete asshole.

Junko: He is, but that’s what makes him great! Here, check this out.

Junko quickly pulled out her handbook, showing to me the Students tab... Apparently she had earned second fragments with Kyoko, Byakuya and Sayaka...

Mukuro: Really? You managed to get information out of him?

Junko: As I said, he’s fun to mess with if you know right way to approach guys like him.

Mukuro: I just can’t stand him. He’s infuriating.

Junko: Oh come on, you stand my insults pretty well, why not his? Don’t tell me you are suddenly misandrist and think it’s okay if it’s a girl saying it.

Mukuro: No, I’m just used to you saying stuff like that. Other people is different. I expect decency.

Junko: Curb your expectations, this is highschool, not backstreets fight club, we don’t have rules or manners in here.

Mukuro: How did you get to him anyway?

Junko: Well, being a fashion model involves a lot of acting. Particularly acting around rich snobbish dudes and men who think they’re the best of the best in the entire world. The whole bimbo act works pretty well, if you ask me.

Mukuro: So you played stupid and got him to tell you more about himself?

Junko: Of course not, he may be a stuck-up prick, but he’s not that stupid himself. I simply challenged his ego and beat him at rock-paper-scissors seventeen times in a row.

Mukuro: You cheated, didn’t you?

Junko: Hey, it’s not cheating, it’s special technique. But trust me, nothing is more fun than seeing ego of perfection crumbling to pieces. By the twelfth loss he started telling me how he’s more than lucky rich born into wealth. And, imagine that, I think he actually believes that!

Mukuro: His behavior shows it...

Junko: But yeah, wanna play rock-paper-scissors?

Mukuro: We always end up tying, Junko. You know it.

Junko: Not always! Sometimes I manage to win!

As conversation continued, I noticed Junko pull something out from under her pillow and start casually playing with it. It looked like a prolonged, shiny object.

Mukuro: Hey, what do you have over there?

Junko: A knife!

Mukuro: Junko, no!

Junko: Junko, yes!

Mukuro: What are you planning to do with it?

Junko: Use in self-defense. Duh.

Mukuro: But if people find you carrying it around, they’ll just suspect you’re planning to kill someone.

Junko: No duh. That’s why I’m keeping it in my room. And before you even think of snitching, our glorious leader has already approved of it.

Mukuro: Kyoko’s okay with it?

Junko: Totes! As long as I actually keep it in my room. Plus, her knowing I have it gives me a valid excuse in case something does end up going down.

Mukuro: Do you really think a murder will happen at some point?

Junko: Hm... At this current pace? Nah. We’re gonna slowly warm up, chill out and whatever other temperature-based metaphors there are. Then once we have all fragments, we get to go home and learn some horrific truth about real reason for this trip or something,

Mukuro: You’re lying.

Junko: Nope, absolute truth. However, I really don’t think we’re staying at this current pace. You’re with me for once in your life here, right?

Mukuro: ...Monokuma will do something tomorrow. Something to try and encourage killing to happen. Probably some sort of a motive to present us with...

Junko: Bingo! For once in your life you actually sound like my sister would. Kind of smart.

Mukuro: Compliments don’t suit you, Junko.

Junko: And stink lines don’t suit you, but you have them 24/7.

Mukuro: Will you try to do anything to prevent a murder from happening?

Junko: Eh, I have no idea what exactly that cute bear thing is planning, so can’t say yet. I might or I might not. But at least we can rely on each other not killing, right?

Mukuro: Yeah. At least there’s this silver lining.

Update! Earned Junko’s 2nd Hope Fragment.

Junko looks down at her handbooks and groans.

Junko: Ughh... I only now realized... We have to earn those things with each other too... My eyes are already sore from staring at you for this long. How will I ever manage four more sessions?

Mukuro: Don’t be a drama queen, Junko.

Junko: You’re just jealous that, unlike you, I actually have a personality. Speaking of, that personality has just gotten bored and feels like getting some milkshakes from supermarket. Ciao-cacao!

Junko simply strolled out of her own cottage, leaving me alone behind. Then I heard the door click...

Mukuro: Junko... Junko, wait!

The only thing I heard is laughter and clopping of someone running off in heels. I ended up pounding at the door for a while... But without key I had no chance of opening it without breaking it down. So I had to climb out of the window and drop into the water below the cottage, drenching myself... Thanks, sis.

***

Mukuro’s Cottage

I ended up taking a shower and spending rest of the day drying off after I got back to my cottage. In the end, today was pretty uneventful. But if it stayed that way, maybe it would be for the best. Maybe we would be able to get out without any issues after all...

As the outside grew dark, a monitor eventually turned on.

Usami: Good evening, everyone! This is a school trip announcement! It is now 10 PM! Another wonderful day has come to an end! Get some good rest in preparation for cultivating tomorrow’s hope! Sleep tight, everyone!

Click!

There it is. I guess I really should get to sleep if I want to be up for a morning jog with Aoi and Sakura again...

***

Usami Theater

Monokuma is so, so mean... I have no choice but to comply with him. But that’s okay! Friendship is always about that. Even though I’m not friends with Monokuma, I hope everyone learned today’s lessons in compromise. Because, even though he’s the worst, meanest mascot you can ever think of, it’s important to remember your friendship lessons regardless of who you’re dealing with... Even if they’re threatening killing of innocent children. Wait, is that right? I’m not too sure... I’m sorry.

Anyway! Compromises! Aren’t they great? Everyone gets to walk away with same level of happiness! What can be more hopeful? Even though neither side got what they wanted... Uwah, I’m sorry! That’s not what I was meaning to say at all!

Uhh... compromises... preserve friendships? Yes! That’s right! Be friends and compromise and cultivate hope!

And don’t forget to brush your teeth and eat your greens!

Chapter 5: Chapter 1 – Panic at Despair Beach – Daily Life 3

Chapter Text

During the morning I met up with Aoi and Sakura again, but this time we all focused on jog more than we did on talking. Still, it was more fun doing it with them than it would have been doing it alone, so I’m glad I joined them for that again.

Eventually the morning came officially and roadside monitors lit up.

Ding Dong Bing Bong!

Monokuma: Attention! This is a school trip announcement. Good morning, everyone! It is now 8 AM! Get ready for another beautiful day of this killing school trip!

Monokuma: Oh, and by the way. I have an extra announcement to make later today, but that will have to wait for proper atmosphere. I expect you all to be gathered in Jabberwock Park and ready at exactly 6 PM in the evening. See you there! Don’t be late!

Click!

Aoi and Sakura quickly caught up to me. Seems like they watched the announcement on a different monitor.

Mukuro: What do you girls think?

Aoi: I don’t know... Do we have to go?

Sakura: Disobeying him would be foolish as long as he commands those machines.

Aoi: Yes, but... I have a terrible feeling about this.

Mukuro: Me too.

Sakura: Malice is to be expected. But we seem to have little choice other than facing it directly.

Mukuro: Damn it... You’re right, but it feels awful that we can’t do a thing.

Sakura: It is indeed a shame that we can do little. The best we can do is brace ourselves and prepare for whatever comes next.

Aoi: Let’s just go back to the restaurant. I’m hungry!

Mukuro: Yeah... Sure.

***

Hotel Lobby

Surprisingly enough, breakfast was also uneventful. Even Mondo having to be stopped from throwing a chair at Byakuya felt pretty mundane at this point, and no changes of plans happened either. So after the breakfast I found myself hanging out in the lounge with Kyoko and Sayaka. Toko was there too, but she was sitting aside by her lonesome, reading a book.

Sayaka: So, Kyoko, what were you talking to Taka about earlier?

Kyoko: I simply was talking about preparations for tomorrow and requested he obtain some proper lighting.

Mukuro: Lighting? What for?

Kyoko: I want the area well-lit to prevent accidents. However, I also want to avoid electrical hazard. I asked him to examine the supermarket or potentially make arrangements with Usami for something that fits the bill.

Mukuro: Huh... I thought you’d be a bit more hands on in that, considering you’re the leader and all.

Kyoko: I did say that I wasn’t going to just start bossing people around, and the party wasn’t really my idea either. Kiyotaka was simply very eager to do something, so I gave him a direction.

Sayaka: Oh... I’m sorry, Kyoko. I guess it was my idea at first, I should try to help too.

Mukuro: Don’t worry, Sayaka. You simply suggested a party. Everyone else caught on and made it something entirely different.

Kyoko: I’m not really sure if the combination of nighttime, pool and party is quite safe. But I don’t have a good reason to object either.

Sayaka: Well, speaking of safety... Have you managed to figure anything out? About who might be behind Monokuma?

Kyoko: I did not. There are no clues related to people behind Monokuma whatsoever. They were really meticulous about their intervention... But the whole island feels rather off to me. You get this feeling too, right?

Sayaka: I’m not sure I understand...

Mukuro: It’s too perfect. It’s always exactly perfectly sunny, except for night, there is never too strong a wind. Beach is perfect. Cottages and hotel are in perfect condition. Even supermarket is stocked perfectly down to lining out the products.

Kyoko: Exactly. This place was prepared with extreme care and caution. So if Monokuma really did come and take over without people behind original setup knowing, that either goes to prove Monokuma’s prowess... Or that the fight between them is but a façade.

Sayaka: No! I don’t want to believe that. Because if it is... Then- Then we really have nobody to rely on!

Mukuro: We’ve got each other.

Sayaka: Kyoko, are you sure you don’t have any idea on who it might be? Maybe it’s some murder-crazy maniac, like Genocider Syo?

Toko: Huh?

Kyoko: No. I’ve actually looked into Genocider Syo in the past. It’s a curious situation indeed, but I strongly doubt that they’re behind this.

Mukuro: Genocider Syo?

Sayaka: You didn’t hear about him, Mukuro?

I simply tap my temple, hoping that gives her a clue.

Sayaka: Oh, right, you don’t remember anything. Sorry, Mukuro.

Kyoko: Genocider Syo is a serial killer who has gained extreme notoriety. It has gotten to the point where they even have a nickname and online following in other countries. I believe there they’re known as Genocide Jack.

Sayaka: Yes, he killed dozens upon dozens of people and has escaped capture by authorities all along. The only thing that remains consistent is the bloody message they leave behind on all their crime scenes...

Kyoko: That is true. But there is more to a killer’s psyche than just to kill, especially to one such as Genocider Syo. I haven’t been involved with any investigations, but their notoriety did pique my interest and I looked into it further.

Toko: W-Why are you talking about some serial killer? Don’t you have more g-girl-like topics?

Sayaka: Oh, I’m sorry, Toko... I did not mean to worry you.

Toko: I’m n-not worried! It’s just very dumb to think that G-Genocider Syo is behind this.

Mukuro: You sound awfully confident.

Kyoko: I actually agree. Even with purely public knowledge, it’s unlikely that Genocider Syo is behind this.

Mukuro: What makes you say that?

Kyoko: They’re a killer. They always do the deed personally, to the point of wetting their hands in victims’ blood for the bloody message. They are clearly driven by emotion rather than calculation. To set up a killing game with a bunch of mostly unrelated people? That is way outside their modus operandi.

Toko: Y-Yeah! What she said!

Sayaka: I see... I guess that makes sense.

Kyoko: But that isn’t what your reasoning was, was it, Toko?

Toko: I am d-done with this stupid conversation! Why did you drag me into this?

Mukuro: You butted in yourself...

Toko: H-Hmph!

With that, Toko took her book and left...

Kyoko: ...I may be reading too much into this. I should apologize later.

Sayaka: I’m surprised at how well you managed to take apart Genocider Syo’s reasoning without even ever meeting them.

Kyoko: It comes with a specialty.

Mukuro: A specialty?

Kyoko: Detective can mean a lot of things. Different detectives specialize in investigation of different crimes. Theft. Fraud. Kidnapping.

Sayaka: And what is your specialty, Kyoko?

Kyoko: Murder.

Mukuro: Huh... I guess it really is for the best that you’re the official group leader.

Kyoko: Do you really think so?

Sayaka: I do. I mean, if a detective is in charge, then there’s no way anyone would ever try to kill!

Kyoko: Yes. But there is way bigger problem with me taking an active role.

Sayaka: What do you mean?

Mukuro: Painting a target on your own back.

Sayaka: Huh?

Kyoko: Exactly. Initially, I was even planning to keep my talent hidden. But the handbooks made it impossible.

Sayaka: I see... Well, I don’t think anyone here would kill for any reason!

Kyoko: I don’t entirely agree... But I hope for the best myself.

Update! Earned Kyoko’s 2nd Hope Fragment.

As I was checking out my handbook due to beep, someone walked into the lobby.

Sayaka: Oh! Hello, Hiro!

Mukuro: Hey.

Yep, it was Yasuhiro. Although he looked unusually shaken...

Yasuhiro: You! I know! I know what you’re plotting!

Kyoko: What?

Yasuhiro was pointing in general direction of us three. I couldn’t tell who specifically...

Yasuhiro: I’ve seen it! I—I’ll warn everyone! About you and the other one too!

And he was running off now too. Well then.

Sayaka: What? What was that about?

Kyoko: I don’t know. But I will find out.

With that, Kyoko stood up and calmly left after him, leaving me with just Sayaka, who now was holding herself uneasily.

Sayaka: Yasuhiro is the Ultimate Clairvoyant... What if... he really was predicting one of us plotting something?

Mukuro: Come on now. I’m sure he was just being stupid.

Sayaka: Maybe, but... I’m sorry, Mukuro, I want to be alone for now.

And with that Sayaka left as well. Damn it, Hiro, way to kill the girl talk mood.

***

Ranch

I didn’t feel like getting involved with Junko again so instead I ended up idly wandering around the island, kicking rocks and generally being bored. I didn’t feel like swimming or tanning and there wasn’t much else to do. Eventually I ended up grabbing some lunch by myself and continuing the bored wanders until I arrived to the Usami Corral. Where an unusual pair was seemingly standing dumbfounded.

Mukuro: Heya, Makoto. Leon.

Makoto: Hello, Mukuro!

Leon: Hey there.

Mukuro: Did I just miss something?

Makoto: Yasuhiro was just here. He was trying to say something, but then Kyoko tackled him and dragged him away.

Leon: Yeah, man, he was saying some weird stuff.

Mukuro: Did he accuse you of plotting stuff too?

Leon: What? No, nothing like that! He said I should be careful because someone is going to try to kill me.

Mukuro: Seriously, what is that guy thinking, riling people up like that.

Makoto: Well, he did say he predicted it...

Mukuro: Yeah, but it’s still stupid to start panic over superstition.

Leon: Well, you’re right about one thing, I am kind of worried now...

Mukuro: What did Kyoko do to him?

Makoto: She just kind of... bent his arms behind him and pulled him away. She said to ignore him because he’s been going around trying to stir panic the whole day.

Mukuro: So, the guy’s crazy, that’s not big news.

Leon: I mean, he’s the Ultimate Clairvoyant, isn’t he? He even showed me his balls! Could he really be wrong?

Mukuro: Well, even if we assume he’s correct, then it’s at best a one in ten chance, no?

Makoto: I guess that’s true. But you shouldn’t underestimate Yasuhiro like that. His reputation is pretty high in the psychic community.

Mukuro: Not high enough for me to have heard of him.

Leon: You also never heard of Sayaka Maizono.

Mukuro: What? How do you know about that?

Makoto: I... kind of told him. Sorry.

Leon: I mean, seriously, who hasn’t heard of her?

Mukuro: Ugh...

Leon: She’s the biggest name in the idol scene! The best one!

Mukuro: Well, I don’t remember a lot of things, so get off my case.

Makoto: No offense, Mukuro, but you having not heard about Yasuhiro really isn’t much of indicator if you haven’t even heard of Sayaka.

Mukuro: Fine, whatever, what is the point you’re trying to make? That he’s right and Leon’s gonna end up getting killed?

Leon: Uh, yeah, I’d like to not believe that at all, if that’s the case.

Makoto: Well... I don’t really understand the whole psychic fortune telling thing myself.

Mukuro: Then why are you so insistent on Yasuhiro being right?

Makoto: Because he was picked by Hope’s Peak. Isn’t that enough?

Leon: Uh, I don’t get it.

Mukuro: Me neither.

Makoto: Guys, you both got picked by it too! Mukuro may not even remember, but you do realize what it means, don’t you?

Leon: That we’re the ‘Ultimates’?

Makoto: Yes, exactly. Hope’s Peak only scouts out truly best of the best in every field. The reason people are set for life after Hope’s Peak is mostly because their talent has already set them for life, and Hope’s Peak only helps sharpen and hone it.

Leon: Screw that! My talent blows.

Mukuro: I don’t even remember mine. I guess I’m a pretty lousy Ultimate, huh?

Makoto: Come on. You guys are both best in your fields... Even you, Mukuro, whatever that is.

Leon: Well, what if I want to pursue something else entirely? What, am I stuck being a baseball player forever? Life of practices, swings and home runs?

Makoto: That’s not what I meant... I just... wanted to say that you really are exceptional at it, aren’t you?

Leon: Eh, I guess? I never really put in any effort...

Makoto: Exactly! So why would Yasuhiro’s or anyone else’s talents be less than yours?

Mukuro: And what about people who don’t have a ‘proper’ talent? What about Byakuya or Junko. What are their talents? Being born into right family and being born with mom’s genetics?

Makoto: Well, Byakuya did prove that he has all capabilities to run his family business... And I’m sure Junko’s talent involves more than just looking pretty.

Leon: And what about you then? Is luck really a talent too?

Makoto: I... actually don’t know. I guess, Hope’s Peak wants some normal students too?

Mukuro: You seem rather taken with Hope’s Peak, huh?

Makoto: I’m not taken with it! It’s just that... it’s like a place so special, I never imagined I’d be able to get there. Literally! I could never comprehend being there, never dreamed of getting there. It was just like a beacon of hope on the horizon, beyond reach. And then I get invitation! To be set for life!

Leon: And then all this happens... With the killing game thing...

Mukuro: I guess you’re not as lucky as Hope’s Peak thought, huh?

Makoto: Well... I guess?

Update! Earned Makoto’s 2nd Hope Fragment.

Leon: Alright dudes... Uh, I mean, dude and Mukuro? Whatever, I just need some space...

With that Leon walked off, mumbling something to himself...

Makoto: I think Hiro’s words rattled him more than he lets on.

Mukuro: Damn that idiot... I’ll try to find him. Maybe I can get some proper answers.

Makoto: Good luck and... Please don’t hurt him too much? Seems like he already got enough from Kyoko as is.

Mukuro: I uh... I’ll try?

Makoto: Thanks, Mukuro! I’m glad you’re trying to help.

Mukuro: Huh?

Makoto: I mean, trying to help keep everyone friendly. You seemed very cautious at first. It’s great seeing you open up a little.

Mukuro: Uhm... thanks?

Makoto: Well, I won’t hold you up any longer.

Mukuro: Sure... Thanks, Makoto.

And so I left the ranch as well. I think the sun is getting to me. My face feels way too warm...

***

Hotel Grounds

Eventually as evening was coming, I tried to confront him. Yasuhiro seemed to be in his cottage, but blinds on all windows were closed. No amount of knocking or ringing the doorbell seemed to be getting him out. The most I got was a frustrated scream of “Nobody believed Cassandra either!”, whatever that might mean.

Celeste: Do you have business with him?

And looks like my attempts at confrontation were spotted.

Mukuro: Hey, Celeste... Just trying to talk to him about his stupid prophecy stuff.

Celeste: I’m afraid you’ll need to ask Kyoko about that. She put him on the house arrest for the day and explicitly forbade any ‘panic-causing’ from him.

Mukuro: You saw that?

Celeste: Yes. I happened to be a witness of her giving him those orders as she dragged him to his own cottage.

Mukuro: Well, maybe that is for the best after all.

Celeste: I do hope that such brutish methods won’t become a commonplace occurrence.

Mukuro: Trust me, he was just running about trying to scare people.

Celeste: Well, that is rather undesirable now. Wariness is in order in our circ*mstance, of course, but it should not be to the point of blind panic.

Mukuro: Exactly.

Celeste: Although, I do believe he will be coming out soon. Do not forget about the time.

I quickly pulled out my handbook and... Fifteen minutes till six. Monokuma’s announcement in the park. It’s happening very soon...

Mukuro: The park gathering...

Celeste: I was on my way there myself when I spotted your attempts to enter. I recommend leaving him be and going to the park before Monokuma gets antsy.

Mukuro: Fine... Yasuhiro, you heard that?! Gathering is happening soon! You’ll have to get out of there!

Well, no response. Good luck to him.

Mukuro: Let’s go, Celeste.

Celeste: Of course. I welcome the company.

***

Jabberwock Park

Some people were already in the park when we arrived: Kiyotaka, Byakuya, Kyoko... More people arrived over the next fifteen minutes, with Yasuhiro arriving last, exactly a minute before it started. He was surprisingly silent, aside from throwing angry glares at seemingly everyone, but particularly Kyoko.

It wasn’t just him. Nobody seemed up for conversation as the sky was turning dark. Plus, all attention was focused on a new thing for the event – a big stage, featuring a screen like one you’d see movies projected onto, as well as a single chair to the side, not obstructing the screen itself.

Kiyotaka: It’s exactly 6 PM now. It appears Monokuma is late!

Junko: So what? Are we legally allowed to leave after fifteen minutes?

Kiyotaka: Of course not! That rule is a myth, as it only exists in specific establishments that are particularly lax towards both students and teachers!

Chihiro: Yeah... I doubt Monokuma would let us off easy if we just left...

Mondo: What would that sh*tty toy even do to us?

Hifumi: Well, I do not think Monokuma himself is dangerous... But the Monobeasts he commands are definitely Stands of great power!

Monokuma: Oh, come on! Your headmaster is one minute late and you’re already plotting an escape?

Mukuro: You’re the one who told us to gather at six. We did and you weren’t there.

Byakuya: Such incompetence...

Monokuma: Shut your mouths! I was held up by the stupid rabbit. We had to hash out some more... blech! Compromises...

Kyoko: What were you arguing about this time?

Monokuma: It doesn’t matter! I have a show! So all of you shut up and listen, because...

Monokuma: I have a story to tell you.

Suddenly, all lights in the park have gone out, and from... somewhere a projector lit up the screen. Although it was blank white for now.

Monokuma himself hopped into the chair, now sporting a beard and a big pair of glasses for some reason...

Monokuma: Now, children... I gathered you in the evening. Do you know why?

Of course nobody responded. Except Kiyotaka, who raised his arm high up... Monokuma simply ignored it.

Monokuma: Why, it’s to tell you a nice little bedtime story!

The screen behind Monokuma changed, now displaying huge stylized text. ‘Bedtime Stories with Headmaster Monokuma. Episode 5: A Class That Forgot’. Well, that’s ominous.

Monokuma: Once upon a time, there lived a bunch of happy students, all part of same class...

The screen changed, now displaying a bunch of nondescript grey figures meant to represent people.

Monokuma: They weren’t your any students though. They were rather special, Ultimate students, all attending same school: Hope’s Peak Academy!

The image changed, now displaying Hope’s Peak Academy crest. Then it started switching between scenes of the grey nondescript silhouettes doing various school activities, all with cartoony smiles drawn on them.

Monokuma: They made many happy memories in Hope’s Peak Academy! And some not so happy ones too, but that’s not important. The important part is that they all had spent so much time, building memories and relationship, their lives changing for more than two years...

Monokuma: Until...

Suddenly the scene changed. Now the silhouettes were small, all in the shadow of big floating monster. Except the monster was just Usami who had a smile like Monokuma’s dark half.

Monokuma: A certain rabbit decided to take away all their memories, and take them to her own island, where she could force them to make new memories the way she thought was better! All while lying to them about what truly happened...

Scenery changed again. The silhouettes no longer were grey... Instead it was tiny cartoonish versions of us, all on the sandy shore, with Usami happily floating above us.

Monokuma: Thankfully, the students weren’t going to live in complete ignorance for the rest of time, as a kind bear of balance has arrived to the island to save the poor students from the torture of rabbit’s games!

And here comes cartoonish Monokuma, dropkicking Usami out of the air and on the ground, the two now standing opposite sides of us two.

Monokuma: But being a creature of balance, he couldn’t return the memories without it being earned... So he made the students an offer. Some memories will be granted as a reward to whoever ends up killing another student! A life full of memories to regain at least some of your own, a truly fair exchange!

Cartoon Monokuma now had a little halo around his head, while cartoon us were all around him, seemingly cheering and praising.

Monokuma: Of course... The evil rabbit’s deceptions didn’t end there. After all... One of the students actually was working with her! And they remembered everything... Who was it? I can’t tell you, I’m afraid.

The situation on the screen changed again as the cartoonish versions of us all had question marks above our heads, looking at each other.

Monokuma: But maybe if you earn your memories back... You can choose to remember who that was!

Monokuma: After all... That class was you guys.

One final change of the screen, big words saying ‘The End...?’.

After a few seconds of flickering like that, the screen went out, and lights in the park turned back on. Monokuma’s fake beard and glasses were gone too, and he wasn’t alone anymore...

Usami: Monokuma! What did you just do?

Monokuma: Oh, come on! I promised not to rat out your little pet and I didn’t, what’s the big deal?

Usami: You weren’t supposed to mention them being around at all! That wasn’t the deal!

Monokuma: Oh yeah? Then remind me please what it was, I’m afraid my hearing isn’t what it used to be.

Usami: Don’t pretend to be old! Deal was, if I get a student working with me, you can get one working with you! And neither can reveal identity of either mole!

Monokuma: Oh, gee! I’m sorry, Usami, I really am...

Usami: Don’t lie, you meanie!

Byakuya: Stop this nonsense. Are you implying that not one but two people here are already working against us?

Usami: Uwah! Th-that’s... No! Monokuma, you tricked me! Tricked me into revealing it!

Kyoko: One traitor working for Usami from the start... And one recruited by Monokuma...

Leon: Wait, forget about the traitors, what about our memories?!

Sayaka: That part... can’t be true, right? There’s no way we could just forget years worth of memories?

Monokuma: Of course it’s possible! Just ask Usami!

Kiyotaka: Miss Usami! Please, disprove these wild accusations!

Usami: I... Uhm... I’m afraid...

Celeste: She cannot lie at all, even if she wants to. It is rather obvious.

Aoi: No way!

Sakura: But... That would mean... Our memories are truly gone? We really did forget years of our lives?

Junko: Duh... And apparently we all went to Hope’s Peak too.

Hifumi: Years worth of work, all forgotten! What if I plagiarize myself doing ‘new’ art now?!

Toko: Th-that’s not the problem! The problem is th-that someone will kill to get them back!

Yasuhiro: I even know who it is! I predicted it!

Kyoko: Shut up. I warned you once and I won’t do it again.

Yasuhiro: You’ll see! All of you will see!

Chihiro: Please... We shouldn’t fight...

Makoto: Chihiro’s right, guys. Even if we lost our memories... Didn’t you see the slides? We were all friends before we lost them, definitely. Why is losing our memories enough to break us apart?

Byakuya: How naïve...

Mondo: You’ve got something to say, you smug sh*tface?

Byakuya: It doesn’t matter what happened in memories we don’t remember. Because we have no way of knowing what it was. This information is worthless.

Toko: I’m n-not trusting any of you either... For all I know, e-entire class just hated me...

Sakura: So much time has passed... Can we really be certain it’s true after all?

Kiyotaka: Miss Usami! Even if memory part is true, can you at least dispel the falsehoods of a traitor among us?

Monokuma: Oh, you mean traitors? Sure, Usami, just tell us there aren’t two students who agreed to work with us.

Usami: I! You! Mean Monokuma! Don’t listen to him, everyone! You should just work on gathering the Hope Fragments! And once you do, you can all get out to safety!

Celeste: And here is our answer. The betrayers really do exist.

Mondo: Who?! Who the f*ck is working with those sh*tty things?! I’ll beat the f*ck out of both of them!

Junko: Have you considered that traitors might be girls?

Mondo: I’ll figure it f*cking out!

Makoto: Please, stop! I’m sure if we just talk about it—

Mondo: Oh, you wanna talk, huh? How about you—

Mukuro: Stop. Now.

I got between Makoto and Mondo as Mondo started to raise his hand for a punch.

Makoto: Mukuro, please be careful...

Mondo: Seriously? You’re defending that goodie-two-shoes twerp?

Aoi: Hey, he’s just trying to help!

Byakuya: And the meatheads are ready to go here and now. How predictable.

Sakura: There is no need to insult people like that, Byakuya. All of us have a lot to process.

Byakuya: Maybe you do. I got the information needed and its obvious what situation we’re in.

Celeste: I’d have to agree. The facts were simply laid out in front of us. From this point it is simply matter of accepting them or denying them.

Sayaka: But... So much time has passed...

Leon: Seriously? Traitors? Memory loss?

Kiyotaka: Could Miss Usami really have done something like that?

Hifumi: Eeek! Multiple sides both recruiting traitors? What is this counter-espionage?

Kyoko: Everyone, quiet down.

Surprisingly, it did get everyone to go silent... I guess the stern tone with which Kyoko usually talked helped.

Kyoko: This changes nothing.

Mukuro: What? But the memories and—

Kyoko: I heard precisely what Monokuma and Usami said. And yet, it changes nothing. Monokuma attempted to give us a motive to kill and failed.

Yasuhiro: Seriously? Failed? How can you know?

Kyoko: He promises to give some memories back to whoever commits a murder. However, if anyone does that, they either get off the island and learn everything that happened in meantime anyway... Or they die and get executed. Either way, that motive is entirely worthless.

Leon: But what about the traitors?

Kyoko: They aren’t in position of any advantage either. The way situation is set up, they’re at best puppets for the people behind Monokuma and Usami. Plus, it’s not your place to worry about who the traitors are, but mine. Let me work on it.

Byakuya: Do you really expect this to be enough to quell all hostility?

Kyoko: No. But everyone needs to realize that both motives are moot because of the rules Monokuma set up for the killing game. Neither is worth anything, and they’re both just attempts at getting us to panic and make a rash choice. My words from before still stand. What we should do to survive is simply be cautious and not do anything stupid.

Aoi: Kyoko’s right, everyone! We shouldn’t fight!

Makoto: And we have a party tomorrow, too!

Sayaka: Well, it would take our mind off of this...

Sakura: I agree. That distraction will be more welcome now than before.

Kyoko: But for now, I do believe all of us should get rest.

Hifumi: Miss Kirigiri is right... this was an emotional overload for me...

Toko: You’ve probably just t-tired yourself out just getting over the bridge between the islands...

Hifumi: I’ll have you know I’m very much mobile!

Kyoko: Stop. No more arguing. No more fighting. Everyone goes to their cabins, or grabs lunch first if you didn’t have it yet. This day needs to end and we all need to calm down on our own.

Mondo: sh*t...

Sakura: Wise choice.

Sayaka: This is a lot to take in...

Kiyotaka: Everyone! Class President gave us a clear order! Proceed to the park exit in an orderly manner!

Celeste: Well, I suppose this is the evening. Good night, everyone.

And so, everyone started leaving the park, slowly and uncertainly, most throwing suspicious glance at one-another. I caught a glimpse of Junko looking at me with a serious expression. If this has got even to her...

Makoto: Thanks, Mukuro...

Mukuro: Huh?

Makoto: For standing up for me. I feel like if not for you, I would have been sent flying across the park.

Mukuro: Oh, it’s no problem. Mondo’s a bit of a loose cannon sometimes.

Makoto: I’m sure he’s a great guy... just a bit too intense.

Mukuro: Anyway, we should get going. Good night, Makoto.

Makoto: Yeah... Good night, Mukuro.

***

Mukuro’s Cottage

I didn’t have a lunch, but I wasn’t particularly hungry either, so I just went back. I spent a long time thinking about... things. Over two years of memories lost... How much? What exactly? Good memories? Bad memories? Friendships? Rivalries? Maybe I reconciled with Junko properly? What happened at Hope’s Peak? Maybe that was why I didn’t have my memories of years prior as well? I’d need to ask her about it tomorrow.

The traitors as well... One working for Usami, one for Monokuma... Who could it be? Byakuya could be working for Monokuma... That would be fitting with how antagonistic he was being. Usami... Someone upbeat and cheerful like her? Aoi? No, she wouldn’t be able to hold a secret if her life depended on it...

I shouldn’t be thinking so hard about it. Kyoko was right. In the end, neither thing changed anything about our situation. We didn’t have any more reason to commit a murder after the show than we did beforehand. And yet...

I felt like something was set in motion after the reveals.

Ding Dong Bing Bong!

Monokuma: Attention! This is a school trip announcement. Good evening, everyone! It is now 10 PM! Nighttime has officially come, so go and get some sleep to be energetic for tomorrow’s murderous plans! Sleep well!

Click!

Mukuro: That f*cker... Sigh...

I really should rest. Maybe leaving all the thinking to people like Kyoko and Junko really would be for the best...

***

Monokuma Theater

Ah, the good old memories... But how important are they really? Think of any personality trait you have. Absolutely any whatsoever that isn’t like a hobby or whatever. Maybe you’re excitable! Or have childish innocence! Or is it short temper?

Well, now think about how you came to be like that. What memory is the sign of that personality trait setting in? Hmm? Having hard time recalling a specific one? Oh, what if you just forgot? I mean, it’s entirely possible, don’t you think?

So, you have a personality trait that you have no idea how you’ve even gotten. Can you really say then that amnesia removes something actually vital? After all, you are never forgetting what kind of person you are, it’s entirely different thing altogether. All you’re forgetting is minute and unnecessary things, like friends, family and other stuff nobody cares about.

The only value memories have is value you yourself can attach to them. You can say a memory of spending a great night out in the restaurant on your tenth birthday with your mom is precious! But it is only precious because you chose it to be, not because it actually is.

So, how much are the memories you’ve long lost worth? Can you measure it? And how much would you be willing to give up just to get a chance to see if they are actually worth what you think they might be worth?

Chapter 6: Chapter 1 – Panic at Despair Beach – Daily Life 4

Chapter Text

Groaan...

Yeah, going to bed without a dinner was a mistake... I was now running along with Aoi early in the morning and I felt really hungry... Sakura went ahead of us, and I didn’t want to overexert myself right now.

Aoi: Huh? Mukuro, are you hungry?

Mukuro: Yeah... Don’t worry about it, I can make do till breakfast. I skipped dinner yesterday.

Aoi: Wait, seriously? Mukuro, you can’t do that!

Mukuro: I just wasn’t feeling hungry, is all.

Aoi: You still need to eat! At least something to tide you over until breakfast!

Mukuro: Well, we’re out running on the pathways of the island right now, there’s nothing there and I can just wait until breakfast.

Aoi: Wait, I’ve got you.

Aoi stopped and pulled out her handbook. I stopped as well, approaching her... She tapped the screen a few times and...

A pink flash. A bit too close for my tastes, at least not loud.

Usami: Hello, Hina! Do you want the usual?

Aoi: Yep!

Usami: There you go!

Usami handed Aoi a box. With big donut drawn on it.

Usami: Monokuma is really mean, but at least this perk he came up with wasn’t as mean... Anyway, I will go now! Have a nice meal!

And she suddenly was gone again. Stupid plushies with stupid disappearance flashbangs...

And here was Aoi, handing the box to me. I took it and opened it. As expected, a set of 6 soft-looking donuts...

Aoi: That’s my perk! It’s called Pit Stop and I can call a food delivery whenever I want and wherever I want.

Mukuro: Wow... I wonder how that is supposed to help with killing, if that is what Monokuma wants...

Aoi: I have no idea, but it’s been great! I can ask for pretty much anything too, though I usually ask for donuts. They’re delicious!

Well, they looked okay and Aoi was vouching for it, so... I simply took one and had a bite and—

Two donuts were gone within less than a minute, and I was already finishing the third. Man, I didn’t realize how much I needed some sweets...

Aoi: I know, right?

Mukuro: Mff... Thank you... I just hope I still have room for breakfast.

Sakura: Are you two having a break?

Looks like while I was having a snack, Sakura managed to get a whole lap ahead of us.

Mukuro: Sorry... I was feeling hungry because I went to bed without dinner.

Aoi: Can you believe it, Sakura?

Sakura: I understand. I had to force my own dinner down yesterday as well.

Aoi: Huh?

Mukuro: Monokuma’s words got to you?

Sakura: I wouldn’t say that. However, I did think about a lot. It was... complicated. But my resolve did not waver.

Aoi: Well, that’s great!

Mukuro: But, Aoi... Are you sure that just revealing your perk like that is a good idea?

Aoi: Well, it’s not like I can use it for anything nefarious... Plus, if it helps people trust me and one-another more, I’m down to tell anyone! And I trust both you and Sakura too.

Sakura: I appreciate it, Hina.

Mukuro: Yeah, thanks.

We ended up each eating one of three remaining donuts. Not the best breakfast, but let’s just say it’s a really late lunch instead.

Ding Dong Bing Bong!

Usami: Hello, everyone! This is a school trip announcement! It is now 8 AM! Another wonderful morning in tropical paradise! Time to wake up and be ready to cultivate wonderful hope!

Click!

Mukuro: Well, I guess we should go get proper breakfast.

Aoi: Right! Let’s go!

***

Hotel Cafeteria

Breakfast went about as normal as normal gets on this island. One-near fight, half an argument, thankfully I wasn’t involved in either so I could have some eggs in peace. Despite the donuts earlier, I was still pretty hungry...

Eventually after everyone ate, Kiyotaka stepped in front of the food counter and cleared his throat.

Kiyotaka: Attention, everyone! Schedule of tonight’s recreational activities has officially been settled on. It will start at 9 PM, one hour before the official nighttime announcement! There is no clear time set for its end, aside from people wishing to depart to sleep!

Kyoko: Thank you, Taka. I assume that preparations have been completed?

Kiyotaka: Not yet! However, I am certain that I can finish them on my own today!

Yasuhiro: Wait, the party thing? Seriously, you’re still having it? No way! I’m not coming and neither should anyone else!

Kyoko: Yasuhiro.

Yasuhiro: Fine! Don’t believe me! See if I care! Won’t cry at all your funerals!

And with that he stormed off... What is wrong with him?

Byakuya: Well, that was something. Regardless, don’t get too loud with your stupid party. Some of us will be trying to sleep.

And so he left.

Chihiro: They will be all on their own... And...

Celeste: You planned to skip the party yourself, did you not, Chihiro?

Chihiro: I was, but... I’m still worried about people being left out.

Makoto: You can still come, Chihiro. Invitation is open to everyone.

Chihiro: ...I’m sorry...

Toko: Well, I’ll just have to find some other place t-to read tonight...

Celeste: I am sure the event shall be entertaining, but my mind remains made up. Have fun, everyone!

With that, Celeste and Toko left as well.

Sayaka: Well, I’m certain we can still have fun, right?

Leon: Yeah! If those guys don’t want to be in on it, it’s their loss. We can party without them!

Mondo: Hell yeah! Maybe without that four-eyed asshole we can have a good time for once.

Aoi: Alright! So, where are we meeting then?

Kyoko: The party will be in front of the Hotel, in the area around the pool.

Sakura: That works well.

Kiyotaka: In that case, it’s settled! Let’s meet tonight and all have the most fun of time!

Hifumi: My swimsuit is all ready and waiting already!

Junko: Yay.

***

Hotel Grounds

The rest of the day ended up being surprisingly boring. I tried to help Taka haul those big ‘safe’ lights from Supermarket, but he completely refused to accept help from a girl. Kyoko was nowhere to be found, Makoto was hanging out with Sayaka and Leon already, Sakura was meditating in her cottage and Aoi decided to enjoy the ocean... Everyone found ways to busy themselves in anticipation of the party. I tried to do the same, but only ended up pacing around the island uncertainly. I didn’t have a good feeling about what might happen... Especially after Monokuma’s ‘bedtime story’ yesterday. I tried confronting Usami about my memories even, but she simply told me to collect more Hope Fragments and ran off. I wasn’t getting any answers out of her.

Eventually, sun started setting and time on my handbook signified that I should go back, so I returned to the hotel grounds.

The place changed a lot. On the sides of the pool there were two tables, one housing a huge variety of snacks and appetizers, while the other had a big variety of drinks, including a huge fountain of what seemed to be a strawberry punch... Looks like someone went all out on the food.

The lights Taka was carrying earlier were also there, bright but not overwhelmingly so. And supposedly running on internal energy too. Lined in rows on pool’s sides. As I passed by the cottages and to the pool area, I saw Hifumi, standing right at the entrance to party area make a note of some sort in a notebook.

Hifumi: And Miss Ikusaba as well! That makes... Twelve attendees in total!

Mukuro: What are you doing?

Hifumi: Oh, Miss Kirigiri asked me to keep a guestbook, just in case. Well, I’m always happy to help!

Toko: Hmph.

Toko made an annoyed noise as she passed us and went directly for exit out of the hotel grounds entirely, book in her hands.

Hifumi: And with Miss f*ckawa gone... Down to eleven. Well, I suppose that does account for everyone who promised they’d be here!

Mukuro: I see. Thanks, I guess?

Hifumi: Any time, Miss Ikusaba.

He was right. Indeed, everyone was here. Makoto, Sayaka and Leon were chatting by the punch fountain. Mondo seemed to be idly chewing on some appetizers. Kyoko and Taka were having idle conversation aside. Sakura and Aoi were together as well. And Junko...

I walked over to Junko by the and grabbed her hand right as she was about to tip a tiny bottle into the punch fountain.

Mukuro: Junko, no.

Junko: Oh, come on! A little bit of alcohol never hurt anyone!

Mukuro: What if someone gets hurt?

Junko: What kind of party is it if someone doesn’t? But fine, whatever, have it be boring. I’ll get my chance to get these nerds actually loose another time.

Mukuro: I don’t think I want them loose...

Junko: Oh, I’m sure you don’t. But imagine that guy...

She points right at Makoto, innocently laughing at some joke Leon just said. If Sayaka’s expression was any indication, it wasn’t that funny.

Junko: ...all red in the face and hot and stumbling right into your strong grasp and—

Mukuro: Junko, shut up!

Junko: Come on, sis, relax a little. That’s what the party is for.

Junko: Unless you don’t want to enjoy it and wish to disappoint your girlfriend...!

Junko looks over at Aoi.

Mukuro: She’s not my girlfriend! Stop it! You’re the one who just put me on edge.

Junko: Eh, fair. But so is what I said.

With that, Junko took a single glass of soda, put a few drops out of her little bottle into it, and downed it.

Mukuro: That’s illegal.

Junko: So is public indecency and yet you showed up without a paper bag on your face. So I’m sure that’s alright. Now, who wants to make this ‘party’ into a PARTY?!

Junk pulled out a huge music player from under the table and hit ‘play’, as loud dance music started blasting. Surprisingly, that seemed to put everyone into the right mood, as they stopped having their little individual conversations and started all dancing together. Kyoko was the only one standing out, so I decided to approach her.

Mukuro: You’re not joining in?

Kyoko: I could ask you the same.

Mukuro: I don’t know how to dance.

Kyoko: Neither does Taka, and yet...

Yeah. Taka’s movements looked more like a gym class exercise than a dance. Well, at least he was trying...

Then I noticed someone familiar pass by. Byakuya went right by the snack tables and into the Hotel itself... I quickly ran over to him.

Mukuro: Hey! Where are you going?

Byakuya: Isn’t it obvious? To have dinner. Out of my way.

And he simply walked around me. I guess that makes sense... Going through the party was the only way of reaching hotel, and that was where Usami put out the food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I wonder if she made those appetizers on request too.

Well, despite him going by, party went on. People were dancing, drinking and snacking... I guess this wasn’t that—

Crash! Crack clack!

I turned around again to see quite a scene. Looks like Hifumi tried to pull off a dance move and knocked over tiny table where all the glasses were. Thankfully table with drinks themselves was spared.

Hifumi: Eek! I am so sorry, Miss Maizono! I simply wanted to avoid bumping you with my pirouette...

Sayaka: No, it’s okay, Hifumi. Although we don’t have empty glasses anymore...

Kiyotaka: I got those from the supermarket! If any more are required, I can make a shopping trip.

Sakura: I will go.

Aoi: Huh? Sakura? Why?

Sakura: Taka has been working all day to set this all up. It feels unfair to have him be the one doing all the work.

Leon: Yeah, man, you should relax with us.

Kiyotaka: W-Well... If Sakura is volunteering, then I can only embrace this gesture!

Sakura: Very well. I will bring more glasses soon.

And with that Sakura left... but party went on of course. I heard Mondo mumbling about “making girls do work for him”, but decided to ignore it. The music kept blasting. Junko seems to have spiked some more of her own glasses before they got broken, as she now was going full wild dance... Not undressing thankfully.

I decided to join in... But moving like that with people who could see was pretty weird, so after a few minutes of dancing I went back to sidelines with Kyoko.

Aoi: Hey! We should use the pool! This is a pool party, right?

Sayaka: I think I’ll save it for later. It sounds fun, but I prefer swimming as more relaxing.

Junko: Woo! You can’t pull moves like mine when you’re in the water! Yes! Party!

Aoi: Oh, come on you guys! I’ll be right back, I just need to change!

In five minutes, Aoi was back with us, wearing a swimsuit, jumping into the pool with... I think it was two and a half midair flips? And that girl really could swim. Her laughter confirming how much she was enjoying it too. But it didn’t last too long before she decided to raid the snack table again...

At some point Byakuya made his way back to the cottages. He didn’t say a word to anyone, and nobody acknowledged him either. Well, when it’s like that, he’s almost bearable.

And then, in wildness of dance, something happened... I heard a sudden yelp.

Sayaka: Makoto, watch out!

The huge punch fountain was falling right onto Makoto. I tried to rush over to catch it, but I was on the other side of the pool... So I was too late and by the time I ran over, it already fell onto Makoto, pushing him right into the pool.

Sakura: Makoto!

I saw Sakura, who just came back from Supermarket, rush over and jump right in, clothed as well... Before getting out, holding Makoto by hood of his hoodie.

We all crowded around the two.

Mukuro: Makoto, are you alright?

Leon: Damn! That was scary for a moment.

Makoto: Ugh... I’m fine. I can swim, you know! Not very well, but I can.

Kyoko: Still, getting knocked into the water like that can be dangerous.

Mondo: How the hell did you even tip that thing over?

Makoto: I didn’t do anything! I was just standing by it and then I saw it falling and... then I was wet.

Sakura: Looks like I returned just in time.

Aoi: Oh no! We can’t use the pool anymore! It’s all sweetened punch water now...

Hifumi: What? But Miss Maizono’s swimming!

Sayaka: I think I’ll be fine. The party is fun either way!

Junko: Hell yeah! Who needs water when you got these drinks!

Leon: You sure get energized a lot by sugar, huh?

Junko: Yeah! ‘Sugar’!

Kiyotaka: Sakura! Makoto! Both of you should change! Wearing wet clothes at night is dangerous if it’s not a swimsuit!

Sakura: Of course. Let’s go, Makoto.

Makoto: Yeah... I feel heavy with all this water...

And so, the two of them left. Surprisingly, Sakura came back pretty quick. And not long after...

Ding Dong Bing Bong

Usami: Good evening, everyone! This is a school trip announcement! It is now 10 PM! Another wonderful day has come to an end! Get some good rest in preparation for cultivating tomorrow’s hope! Sleep tight, everyone!

Click!

Junko: f*ck you, bunny rabbit! This party will last till dawn! Mondo, c’mere, I need a dude who has strong legs for this next dance!

Mondo: H-Hey, what are you—Get off!

I couldn’t help but chuckle at Junko’s antics, as well as Mondo’s complete confusion at what to do.

But Makoto wasn’t coming back... Minutes were ticking and I started worrying, so...

Mukuro: Hey, Taka... Do you think Makoto is alright?

Kiyotaka: He is sure taking his time getting changed. I will go and remind him of dangers of tardiness!

Without answering, Taka marched off towards the cottages. I simply sighed...

Party was in full swing. Hifumi was spinning, this time a safe distance from any tables, Mondo was desperately trying to stop Junko from climbing onto him, Leon was doing some suave dances at Sayaka who simply seemed to be enjoying herself, Sakura and Kyoko were quietly drinking some juice, Aoi looked with sadness into the berry-tainted pool... Maybe—

Kiyotaka: Graaaaaaah!

I heard the scream over Junko’s music. And everyone’s reaction seemed to show they did too. Something was wrong. Taka was checking on Makoto. My legs moved before I could think. I could hear Kyoko’s shoes right behind me as I rushed towards the cottages. As expected, Taka was standing at the boys’ side, looking into one of cottages’ windows.

I rushed over and looked in as well.

Inside was Makoto Naegi, staring back at us with wide eyes and shock. In his hands... was... a large curved blade, end of it dripping with blood. And beside him, sitting down and leaning against the wall, was the unmoving body of Yasuhiro Hagakure, the Ultimate Clairvoyant, with a huge stab wound in his chest.

Ding Dong Bing Bong

Usami: Oh no... This is so horrible... why...

Monokuma: That’s not the script! You should read the script!

Usami: Sniff... A... sniff... A body has been... discovered... Everyone, please... sniff... Gather at Yashiro Hagakure’s Cottage... After... sniff... Uwaaaaah!

Monokuma: Oh, you crybaby. After a certain amount of time has passed, a Class Trial will begin! There. Was that so hard?

Usami: Waaahh... Uwehhh...

Chapter 1 – Panic at Despair Beach – Deadly Life

Chapter 7: Chapter 1 – Panic at Despair Beach – Deadly Life

Chapter Text

Chapter 1 – Panic at Despair Beach – Deadly Life

Yasuhiro was dead. And Makoto was standing over him with a bloodied sword. I heard more footsteps as people were rushing over, and someone ran into the cottage, which turned out to have been open, before anyone else managed to say anything.

Mondo: You motherf*cker!

Makoto: W-Wait, this isn’t what it—

Crack!

A punch to the side of the face sends Makoto flying across the room, sword dropping down on the ground.

Kyoko: Mondo, stop.

Mondo: Seriously? You’re f*cking defending him? He just killed a dude!

Kyoko: We do not know that yet. Makoto is the main suspect for now, but you shouldn’t rush to conclusions. We have to question him and you just made it way harder.

Makoto was just lying unconscious on the floor now...

Junko: sh*t, is that dude really dead? Man, I thought he was too dumb to live, but not literally.

Hifumi: Mister Hagakure! Is he really...

Aoi: Hiro!

She rushed over into the cottage after Kyoko and Mondo, immediately grabbing Yasuhiro’s hand and recoiling as she felt it.

Aoi: No... It can’t be... Why... Would anyone...

Kyoko: Stop. Both of you, get out of the cottage. The scene was disturbed enough already, and we don’t need any further disruptions.

Mondo: What about this sh*thead?

Mondo motioned towards unconscious Makoto.

Kyoko: Sakura, could you lock Makoto in his cottage for the time being?

Sakura: Of course. I am sorry for this, Makoto...

She said that, picking the boy up with just one hand by the hoodie again, walking away towards the neighboring cottage.

In meantime, people who weren’t at the party started gathering as well.

Byakuya: Well now. This is getting interesting.

Celeste: So, it appears that death truly was inevitable.

Chihiro: No... No-no... Yasuhiro... why would...

Toko: It’s... it’s... b-blood...

Toko’s voice was particularly shaky. I looked over and saw her eyes roll up as she fell right into Leon’s hands, who managed to catch her.

Leon: sh*t! Is she that sensitive?

Sayaka: There’s a dead body! You can’t just say she’s too sensitive!

Leon: Look, do you think I’m not freaking out right now? But you don’t see me passing out!

Kyoko: Sayaka, Leon. Take Toko to her cottage. Do not lock her though, just lay her in bed and give her time to recover.

Leon: Uh, sure...

Mukuro: Kyoko, are you going to be investigating this?

Kyoko: Obviously. I am getting to the bottom of this and exposing whoever did this.

Mondo: It’s obviously that plain-looking f*cker!

Kiyotaka: I do have to say, Makoto appeared to be in extreme shock when I spotted him through the window! Perhaps he himself discovered the body?

Hifumi: And picked up the obvious murder weapon just to test its weight? Nobody would be that foolish!

Aoi: Who! Who did this?! Why?!

Suddenly a familiar pink swirl appeared in the room and Usami’s appearance followed. How a plushie can look like it has eyes red from crying is beyond me, but that’s exactly how she looked.

Usami: Uwuuuh....

Hifumi: Eeek!

Sakura: Calm yourself. It’s just the rabbit.

Sayaka: Wait, Usami’s here now?

Leon: Hey, we just got Toko into bed. Did something happen?

Usami: I’m so sorry, everyone... I’m a failure as a lead teacher... I’m—

Byakuya: Can you get to the relevant part already?

Aoi: Byakuya! Stop being so mean!

Byakuya: Did you not hear the announcement? We’re supposed to be on a time limit here. If she is just going to waste our time, then listening to her is a detriment.

Celeste: Indeed. Unless you have some relevant info to provide, your presence is unnecessary.

Usami: I’m sorry... But I have to give you the... The Monokuma Files...

Kyoko: Monokuma files?

Usami: They... have a summary of the murder... and body state... That’s all. I’m sorry for being such a bad teacher, but... here!

Usami passed out tablets to all of us...

Usami: I’ll... just go and leave Makoto’s and Toko’s near them... for when they wake up... uweehhh....

And she puffed away.

Junko: Good riddance. So, Monokuma Files, huh...

Kyoko: I suppose it makes sense. Relying purely on me for investigation wouldn’t be right.

Celeste: Not to mention that if you’re the killer, you could simply obfuscate the case if left to investigate all on your own.

Aoi: No way! Kyoko would never!

Kyoko: However, that is true. I will do my best to investigate, but I should not be the only one investigating. Everyone else is welcome to join.

Hifumi: Really? We have to go through full evidence-gathering segment on our own?

Kyoko: Remember, there has to be a killer here, among us. We don’t know who it is yet, but... We have to find them if we’re to survive.

Mondo: Well, Makoto’s locked in his f*cking room if you’re looking for one.

Sayaka: Makoto just doesn’t seem like the type to do something like that!

Junko: Or maybe he has a dark psychotic side that he hid from us all this time?

Mukuro: Junko!

Junko: Kidding, kidding. Man, tough crowd.

Kiyotaka: Junko Enoshima! Please treat investigation seriously!

Junko: Bah, sure, whatever... Man, the hangover will be an absolute killer...

Sakura: I suppose we should proceed with investigation then.

Kyoko: Indeed. But I’d still need some help. Sakura, please watch Makoto’s cottage and alert us when he wakes up.

Leon: If he wakes up... That punch looked like it could put you in a coma.

Mondo: Heh, I always had a good swing.

Kyoko: Mondo, Leon. You two stay in the cottage. Try not to disturb the scene too much, but also make sure nobody else tries to get rid of anything. No taking items out of there or planting anything.

Byakuya: Taking all the precautions already. But are you sure it’s going to work?

Kyoko: No. But it’s more likely to that way.

Byakuya: Ah, so idealistic...

Mukuro: Do you wanna go?

Kyoko: Stop. I won’t allow fighting. Especially not now. What we need to do now is start investigating. I am expecting everyone to at least attempt to contribute.

Kyoko: It seems we are not getting any further assistance from Usami either, so we’re on our own solving this.

Chihiro: She probably doesn’t want to participate in all this either... But rules force her to...

Celeste: Perhaps it would be for the best if Monokuma was around. At least he seems capable of explaining the situation properly.

Kyoko: We’ll just have to work with the hand we were dealt. Let’s get to it. We don’t know how much time we’re given on this.

Aoi: Wait! Couldn’t Monokuma have killed Yasuhiro? He wanted the killings, right?

Celeste: Considering his approach, I doubt that is the case.

Kyoko: And even if it is, investigation will reveal so.

Chihiro: We have to do this... For all of ours sake... Right?

Mondo: Don’t worry, Chihiro. We’ve got the bastard who did it and nobody else will get hurt.

Sayaka: Could it really have been Makoto...?

Hifumi: Mr. Naegi definitely did not have killer’s nature...

Leon: So, we gotta investigate right? I guess not just here too?

Byakuya: Of course. If the killer was involved with your stupid party, there has to be evidence left.

Junko: Dude, our party was rad. Until now of course.

Kiyotaka: Everyone! We have to give it our best to uncover the truth behind this heinous crime!

Sakura: Then let us proceed.

Investigation Start

Kyoko: We should examine the Monokuma Files first. That is obvious first step.

I looked down at the tablet Usami handed out to me. It pictured Yasuhiro’s portrait and outline of his body, with big red circle in the abdomen, where he was stabbed... I scrolled down.

“The victim was Yasuhiro Hagakure, the Ultimate Clairvoyant.

The victim’s body was discovered in Yasuhiro Hagakure’s cottage at 10:08 PM.

The fatal wound was dealt between 9:25 PM and 9:45 PM with a long sharp object.

No other wounds were detected on the body, and no traces of poison were found in victim’s bloodstream.”

So, this is the kind of summary we get, huh?

Truth Bullet Added: Monokuma File 1

Leon: Seriously? How are we meant to figure anything out just from that?

Kyoko: We aren’t. I assume that even this was only given to us in order to prevent complete reliance on me for body examination. Still...

Junko: Hey, so, the cottage is gonna get damn crowded if we all get in there. Should we like, split up or something?

Kiyotaka: Great suggestion! Class President and assigned guards should stay as well as few students entering at a time! This will avoid unnecessary confusion.

Aoi: I’m sorry, I just want to go check up on Toko. To make sure she’s not hurt.

Sakura: That is kind of you. I will attend to my post near Makoto’s cottage in the meantime.

Hifumi: Well, I suppose someone has to investigate the party area...

Celeste: I am curious of what alibis everyone can provide.

Sayaka: Then... then let’s all do whatever we can.

Mukuro: Yeah... let’s.

And with that, many people started moving out and away from the cottage. Unsurprisingly, few wanted to stay near the body. Kyoko, Leon and Mondo obviously remained, and beside them... Byakuya and Junko. And myself, I guess... Still quite a crowd, but not the entire class at least.

We entered the cottage... I took note again that the door was simply open. But key wasn’t in the hole. As everyone else proceeded closer to the body I lingered on it. Yasuhiro was extremely paranoid for the last two days... Would he really just let someone into his cottage?

Truth Bullet Added: Yasuhiro’s Door

Junko: Hey, this is where the sword came from, right?

I looked over at where Junko was standing... Right by the body. Kyoko and Byakuya were examining the body itself, but she seems to be looking at something at the wall above the body. I approached to take a better look.

Leon: Hey, yeah, it might be.

There, on the wall, there was affixed... a rack? Specifically for holding some sort of a blade or sword. Right under it was a little plaque... ‘Lemurian Mageslayer, circa V century BCE’.

I looked around the room... And realized it wasn’t the only oddity like that. There were a few more, all looked like museum pieces dedicated to faux civilizations and conspiracies... Looks like Yasuhiro’s room was tailored to his own interests, including the sword.

Truth Bullet Added: Sword Rack

Mukuro: Hey, Junko, look.

I pointed to the section of wall right beside the rack, and right above the body... It looked a bit cracked and scuffed.

Junko: Huh? What?

Mukuro: Junko, please pay attention.

Junko: I am paying attention, you numbskull... Yeah, some uhh... Cracks? Evidence. Yeah, totally.

Mukuro: Junko, are you actually drunk?

Junko: I’m not drunk drunk, I’m... slightly tipsy. In a ladylike way.

Mukuro: I don’t think anything you do is ladylike...

Junko: Ugh... Wait, I need a moment outside... Fresh air...

Junko rushed out of the cottage. Damn it, why did she have to pull a stunt like this right before a murder? Then again, not that she could have known...

Truth Bullet Added: Signs of Struggle

I guess there was no choice but to join Kyoko and Byakuya with examining the body itself.

Yasuhiro looked pale and... even in death, he had a panicked look on his face. His clothes were stained with blood around his chest, where the sword presumably was. And looking to the sides, his hands were by the sides of his body, palm-up. And there is a curious detail...

His middle and right finger on the right hand were also covered in blood, while everything else on both hands was relatively clean... Weird.

Truth Bullet Added: State of Yasuhiro’s Body

Kyoko: You noticed it, right?

Mukuro: The blood on the fingers? Yeah, it’s weird.

Kyoko: I believe this was written with it...

Kyoko moved aside, to reveal that on wooden floor there were words and numbers... “I was right. 11037.”... Huh? Is that meant to be a dying message?

Kyoko: It was covered by his hand when we discovered the body. It only became visible when I moved it.

Byakuya: Assuming it is a dying message, he was trying to hide it from the killer in case they came back.

Kyoko: That much is obvious.

Mukuro: But... The numbers. What do they mean?

Leon: Hey, maybe they aren’t numbers but english letters? Like, if 0 is an O and 3 is an E backwards...

Mukuro: If they are, then it’s the curviest E I’ve ever seen.

Leon: Hey, I’m just trying to throw a suggestion here!

Kyoko: Mukuro is right. They are definitely numbers. But what do they point towards?

Byakuya: Probably some cryptic conspiracy nonsense. That idiot was clearly obsessed with it.

Leon: Hey, pal, don’t go speaking like that of the dead.

Byakuya: Well, he did end up as first victim. It isn’t that big a compliment to his intelligence.

Mondo: Are you sure I can’t just throw this guy outta the window?

Byakuya: Don’t bother. I’ve seen all I need. As if it wasn’t obvious already.

With that Byakuya left the cottage on his own... Good for him, I was ready to help Mondo with giving him an alternate way out.

Truth Bullet Added: Yasuhiro’s Dying Message

Done with the body I moved onto examining the weapon on the floor, without touching it. The blade really was shaped... peculiarly. The whole thing was wavy all throughout, which seemed really impractical. Looks more like a décor piece than a good weapon, but I could tell edges were definitely sharp. The handle looks to be silver-coated as well, with good quality. And of course, there’s blood all over the top half of the blade. Yeah, this sword was definitely the murder weapon.

Truth Bullet Added: Relic Sword

I took another look around the cottage and noticed Mondo standing by the bedside, looking at the window with frustrated expression.

Mukuro: Hey, Mondo, what’s up?

Mondo: Ah, nothing. Just those damn blinds on the back... Maybe if they were open, we’d be able to see if commotion was happening from the party.

Mukuro: I doubt it. Yasuhiro’s cottage has its back towards the wall, not towards the pool.

Mondo: sh*t...

Thinking about it, all cottages I could see from the pool area had the blinds on their back side closed, including mine. If anything was happening in any of them, we wouldn’t have been able to see it.

Truth Bullet Added: Closed Cottage Blinds

Looking down at bedside table, I noticed another thing... A large notebook, with “1000 prophecies of Supernova, vol. 12 (WIP)” written on it in handwriting that seems distinctly similar to Yasuhiro’s dying message. Looks like he wasn’t lying about writing down all his prophecies. But looking through this one, it only had forty... Out of curiosity, I checked the last 10.

“- One of people present on this island is not a human, but a machine pretending to be one.

- The cursed Funhouse will claim an even amount of lives. (What Funhouse?)

- The bear and the rabbit are one and the same.

- After the first challenge of deduction, fifteen people will be left alive.

- One dubbing herself Ludenberg is hiding her true Swedish origin.

- A betrayer shall attempt to kill everyone except a single person.

- The ogre will fail the test of will in one of the motives.

- Togami holds the perk most dangerous of any.

- Ikusaba and Enoshima are only lying about their sisterhood.

- Maizono shall be the one to take Kuwata’s life.”

...

Well, I can see why he tried to warn Leon and was angry at us, thinking that I was a liar and Sayaka was a killer-to-be... Did he seriously believe the prophecies that much?

Regardless, this notebook proves that dying message was written by Yasuhiro himself and not someone else.

Truth Bullet Updated: Yasuhiro’s Dying Message

Kyoko: Mukuro, I am going to stay here and do some more dirty work. Can you go around and get some testimonies or evidence from elsewhere?

Mukuro: What? Am I being disruptive?

Kyoko: No, but I do think you will be wasting time by staying here.

Damn. She was right. I looked around the room again and nothing I could see stood out to me...

Mukuro: Fine... I guess I’ll check up on Makoto.

Mondo: Tsch...

Kyoko: Make sure to stay critical.

Mukuro: Don’t worry, I will.

***

Makoto’s Cottage

Sakura let me into Makoto’s cottage pretty easily. I guess after Mondo knocked him out, he wasn’t seen as that threatening. I found him sitting on his bed, clutching his jaw...

Makoto: Oh... Hey, Mukuro... ow...

Mukuro: Makoto. Tell me the truth. What happened there?

Makoto: Nothing! I swear! I was just on my way to my cottage when I just looked to the side and... Saw him! Yasuhiro! With sword through his chest. So I ran in!

Mukuro: And door was just open?

Makoto: Yes, it was. I was surprised too, but... I tried checking his pulse and asking him to respond, and even shook him... But he wasn’t responding. I thought maybe if I remove the sword, I could apply first aid, but... That’s exactly when Taka spotted me and screamed.

Mukuro: Seriously?

Makoto: You don’t believe me either...?

Mukuro: More like I don’t believe how stupid it was. Trying to pull out a sword to help treat the wounds? You do NOT pull anything out without professional environment unless you want to make it worse!

Makoto: Wait, seriously?

Mukuro: How in the world were you planning to apply first aid if you don’t know even something so basic?

Makoto: I just thought I’d... wrap a sheet over the wound...?

Mukuro: ...you’re hopeless.

Makoto: I’m sorry! I didn’t mean any harm, really... I just panicked and thought he was still alive and—

Mukuro: it’s fine. But I have to ask you something else. You said the door was open, right? Isn’t that weird?

Makoto: Well... It is weird. Yasuhiro was pretty paranoid lately, I doubt he’d leave it open like that.

Mukuro: I was thinking... You know everyone’s perk. And seeing how Junko has a perk that can lock any door, including ones without locks... Is there a perk that can do the opposite?

Makoto: I... Yeah... There is. There’s a perk that can open any locked door with exception of Island Gates.

Mukuro: Hah! I got it! Then that person was probably the killer! Who is it?

Makoto: I... can’t tell you.

Mukuro: What? Why?

Makoto: I just... don’t want anybody suspected yet! It’s entirely possible that Hiro just opened door for them when they rung the doorbell or forgot to close it... Just having a perk like that doesn’t make you a killer.

Mukuro: Ugh... Fine. Whatever...

Truth Bullet Added: Makoto’s Account

Makoto: Mukuro... You don’t suspect me, do you?

Mukuro: No. Not really. You don’t have the heart for it. But you’re pretty stupid for not revealing who has the unlocking perk.

Makoto: Sorry, but I won’t back down. I don’t want people to jump someone like Mondo jumped me.

Mukuro: I’ll go check up on others and you... Well, stay here I guess. Sakura’s watching the cottage.

Makoto: I’ll be fine... I need a rest after that punch anyway.

***

Hotel Grounds

Seems like most people were simply mingling around here... Well, I had someone to talk to first and foremost, so I approached them.

Mukuro: Hey, Hifumi. You kept that guestbook thing going throughout the whole party, right?

Hifumi: Oh, Miss Ikusaba! Yes, I was just finishing showing it to Mister Ishimaru right now.

Kiyotaka: Indeed! It will prove to be an incredibly valuable clue for us!

Mukuro: Let me see.

Hifumi: Right here! Although I would ask you not take it with you. Other people might want to take a look as well.

He opened a notebook he was holding, showing me an almost schedule-like list...

9:00 PM – Party is beginning. Sayaka, Sakura, Aoi, Mukuro, Junko, Kyoko, Leon, Kiyotaka, Mondo, Hifumi and Makoto are present. Toko is briefly present before departing.

9:05 PM – Byakuya passes by and enters Hotel building.

9:15 PM – Sakura leaves for Rocketpunch Market.

9:35 PM – Aoi leaves for cottages.

9:40 PM – Aoi returns, dressed in swimsuit.

9:45 PM – Byakuya leaves Hotel building and departs for cottages.

9:50 PM – Sakura returns from the supermarket. Sakura and Makoto depart for cottages.

10:00 – Nighttime Announcement. Sayaka, Aoi, Mukuro, Junko, Kyoko, Leon, Kiyotaka, Mondo and Hifumi are present.

10:05 – Kiyotaka leaves for cottages.

Hifumi: I stopped writing there when Mr. Ishimaru screamed a minute later... Everyone rushed so quickly!

Mukuro: I guess that does gives us a timeline for when people had alibi and were present at general Hotel Grounds...

Hifumi: Not quite. I wasn’t really keeping track of Grounds entrance, only the party entrance! I suppose someone could easily have went from entrance towards the cottages or the opposite without me seeing them.

Kiyotaka: Hifumi! That is extreme negligence of duty!

Hifumi: I have to object that statement, Mr. Ishimaru! I did my job exactly as guided, recording anyone who enters, leaves or passes by party! But the party did not include the Cottage area of the Grounds!

Kiyotaka: Well! I suppose that is indeed fair, but next time you have to work beyond what is assigned!

Hifumi: I know... But it would have been hard to keep track either way, unless I myself was just standing at the entrance the whole time.

Kiyotaka: Aha! So you simply wished to enjoy frivolities along with all of us! That excuses your less-than-exceptional performance! My apologies, Hifumi!

Truth Bullet Added: Hifumi’s Guestbook

Mukuro: Anyway, thanks for showing me the notebook.

Hifumi: No problems, Miss Ikusaba! Although I do believe that there have been some obscure discoveries near the pool.

Mukuro: Really? I’ll go check it out.

Kiyotaka: Do your best in your investigation! As will I! I have to assist in examining the body as well!

Kiyotaka marched off. Somehow he seemed even more stiff than usual... I guess deaths hit everyone differently, huh?

Still, I went over to the pool. Looks like Toko was already up... Aoi, Chihiro and Celeste were there too. All gathered near where Makoto fell into the pool.

Mukuro: Hey girls... Something wrong?

Aoi: Yeah... Someone’s dead, that’s what!

Celeste: Yes, we’ve got that already. You do not have to repeat yourself so much.

Aoi: How can you be so heartless?

Celeste: Because that is what it takes to survive. I do not plan on dying because someone else wants to escape. And neither should you.

Toko: Sh-she’s right...

Chihiro: I... I don’t want to go... through this... But I have to...

Aoi: Augh!

Celeste: Regardless, it appears Hina has discovered something about the broken punch fountain.

Mukuro: Really? What is it, Aoi?

Aoi: Well... I was looking at it and... I noticed that some shards don’t fit!

Mukuro: Huh? Don’t fit?

Aoi: Yeah! Look!

She pointed to a specific piece of glass. There was a huge amount of them, since the fountain itself was gigantic... How did nobody drop that thing while getting it here and on that table was a bigger mystery.

And among the shards of huge glass fountain there were some... surprisingly unfitting. Aoi was right, there was something that wasn’t made of glass, but fake crystal, clearly way more opaque and shiny... What could it have been?

Truth Bullet Added: Unusual Shards

Mukuro: I see... I guess that is suspicious. That thing looked very stable. Hard to believe it fell over without some ‘help’.

Aoi: Wait, are you saying someone may have knocked it over?

Mukuro: It’s possible...

Celeste: I’m afraid I wasn’t present at the party, so I cannot comment.

Chihiro: Neither can I...

Toko: What? D-Don’t look at me, I wasn’t there either...

Mukuro: Speaking of, are you feeling better, Toko?

Toko: I’m fine! J-Just... be glad that I’m fine...

Mukuro: What’s that supposed to mean?

Toko: Why are you prying? It’s none of y-your business!

Celeste: So, it appears you have hemophobia, Toko?

Toko: Y-Yeah. So what? Going to say that I am useless at investigating or s-something?! Then say it!

Celeste: There is no point now that you have said it yourself.

Aoi: Celeste!

Toko: D-Don’t try to defend me! You think that too...

Aoi: No I don’t! Toko, it’s okay if you can’t handle the blood. None of us were prepared for any of it...

Toko: W-Whatever...

Truth Bullet Added: Toko’s Hemophobia

Mukuro: Hey, no time to fight. Murder to solve, remember?

Aoi: ...you don’t have to remind so harshly...

Celeste: But that is true. We have no time for pointless squabbles.

Mukuro: Hey, speaking of... Celeste, Chihiro, Toko... Where were you while the party was happening?

Chihiro: Well... I was at the entrance to the Hotel, on the outside...

Aoi: Huh? What were you doing there?

Chihiro: I didn’t want to attend the party but... I wanted to be close and maybe help, so I thought standing on guard outside the main gate would be it... But eventually I felt bad and just went to the beach to the Entertainment Center.

Toko: So that’s why you stood at the entrance so long!

Chihiro: Huh? How did you know, Toko? I saw Sakura leave the Hotel... and then I left before she was back... But I never saw you.

Toko: W-When I was coming back to Hotel, I s-saw you there... Standing like a h-hawk, so I hid in the b-bushes... I thought you were p-plotting something, but you just left... And that’s when I c-came through and into my c-cottage!

Aoi: So, you stalked Chihiro because you thought Chihiro was stalking someone?

Toko: Sh-shut up!

Celeste: I do believe my alibi is airtight, same as Chihiro’s. I was in the supermarket at the time party was supposed to start and happened to meet Toko. After a passing comment about her fashion sense and a needlessly heated argument, she left, while I went to my lab. I saw Chihiro there as well.

Chihiro: Yeah... And, Toko, I’m sorry... I didn’t mean to scare you... I didn’t even realize you were there.

Toko: D-Don’t say that!

Celeste: It is worth noting, that I did see Sakura at the supermarket, although I left before she did.

Mukuro: That makes sense. She went there to grab spare glasses when Hifumi knocked over ours.

Celeste: Hifumi? That does sound like something his actions would result.

Aoi: So you guys all saw each other at different points throughout the night, right?

Toko: I g-guess...

Truth Bullet Added: Non-Attendees’ Accounts

Chihiro: Do you think that helps, Mukuro?

Mukuro: I don’t know yet. I should go check back in with Kyoko.

Celeste: Hopefully she will be able to reveal the culprit. I’d really prefer not to be a sacrifice for someone else’s freedom.

Aoi: Yeah! Whoever killed Yasuhiro has to pay!

Toko: N-Not like I can help in any way...

***

Yasuhiro’s Cottage

When I went back to the cottage, I saw Sayaka, Sakura and Makoto in there, as well as Mondo, Leon and Kyoko, as expected. Kyoko was seemingly examining Makoto’s hands.

Mukuro: Hey, Sakura. What’s happening?

Sakura: Kyoko requested Makoto to be brought here. It seems she has managed to improvise some forensic tools.

Mukuro: Huh, I see. What about you? How are you feeling?

Sakura: I will not lie, tonight has left me shaken. But my determination and resolve will stay strong. I will get through this. My training hasn’t been purely physical, but mental as well, after all.

Mukuro: I guess it makes sense for a martial artists to have strong will.

Sakura: You have strong will of your own.

Mukuro: Maybe. Have you seen Junko?

Sakura: Yes, she has been vomiting into the water below the cottages. I wonder why she is feeling sick.

Mukuro: She added alcohol to her drinks.

Sakura: What? The drinks were spiked?

Mukuro: Don’t worry, I stopped her from spiking all of the supply, but she still decided to add some to every glass of her own.

Sakura: I see... That is extremely reckless, but at least not towards others’ safety.

Mukuro: Reckless is one way to describe her alright... Hey, I just wanted to clarify. When you were going to the supermarket, did you see anyone?

Sakura: I did. I saw Chihiro outside the Hotel gates, I saw Toko when entering the Supermarket and I saw Celeste in the supermarket itself. But none of them were present when I was on my way back.

Mukuro: I see. That makes sense. It lines up with everything they said.

Seemingly, Kyoko was done with Makoto as I saw him stand up and come up to us.

Kyoko: While I’m certain you didn’t do it, for your own safety, its best you stay put in your cottage. Sakura, please make sure nobody tries anything stupid.

Sakura: I will do my best.

Sayaka: I knew it, Makoto!

Kyoko: So, Mukuro. I guess you’ve gathered accounts from everyone?

Mukuro: I did.

I recounted what I learned from visiting the party area to Kyoko.

Kyoko: Hm... I guess that narrows things down a lot... And I have conducted my own investigation.

Mukuro: Were you just taking fingerprints right now?

Kyoko: In fact, I was. It was a crude makeshift setup, with regular ink and paper... But sometimes it has to do.

Mukuro: Did you learn anything?

Kyoko: The handle of that sword had at least 3 sets of fingerprints. Some matched Yasuhiro’s and some matched Makoto’s. However there were some that didn’t match either of them. I can’t tell if those all came from a single person or multiple. I’ll try my best to gather everyone’s fingerprints while there’s still time.

Truth Bullet Updated: Relic Sword

Kyoko: There is something else as well. A minor autopsy on Yasuhiro helped me pinpoint approximate time of death. He died around 9:45 PM. After that, he was definitively dead already, from blood loss and shock.

Truth Bullet Added: Kyoko’s Examination Results

Mukuro: Huh... By the way, did you check his perk? Yasuhiro’s that is?

Kyoko: I did. It was called ‘The World’. It allowed him to spend up to an hour per day viewing live feed from any camera on the island, but it was already all spent for the day when I checked.

Mukuro: Huh... Do you think it’s related to the case?

Kyoko: I doubt it. If I had to guess, he spent it all long before party even started.

Mukuro: I see... I guess I shouldn’t hold you up. You have thirteen more fingerprints to take and—

Ding Dong Bing Bong

Usami: Uwh... I’m sorry... But the time you were given is... Hnk... It’s up... Please gather at the... Rock of Justice at the... Central Island...

Monokuma: Oh stop your stupid whining! Will you be doing that throughout the whole trial as well? I’ll be sitting next to you, I won’t tolerate this!

Usami: Uwaaaahhh...

Click!

Kyoko: Damn it... We don’t have time.

Sayaka: But the fingerprints... Won’t those be necessary to determine the culprit?

Kyoko: Not necessarily. They could help shorten things, but we have pieces either way. So we’ll have to work with what we have.

Leon: Oh, I think I get it! The Rock of Justice has to be that statue they put up!

Mondo: A statue?

Leon: Dude, weren’t you at the Central Island recently? There’s a huge statue of Usami and Monokuma fighting.

Mondo: sh*t, the only time I left this island is for that stupid motive yesterday...

Kyoko: Let’s not waste time and get moving.

Mukuro: Of course.

***

Rock of Justice

Leon was right. There was a large statue at previously empty spot on the Central Island. It depicted Monokuma, with huge claws out of his paw trying to strike at Usami, who was blocking the strike with her magic stick... So dramatic. And at the bottom, between their feet was a small rectangular chamber, closed right now. An elevator... Huh. I expected something more... out there. I guess Trial will be happening somewhere underground.

Kyoko: Alright. Is everyone here?

Mondo: Of course I’m f*ckin’ here, we walked here together.

Sayaka: I’m here as well.

Celeste: It would be rather foolish not to come here.

Byakuya: Obviously.

Makoto: Uh... I’m here...

Sakura: Avoid unnecessary violence, Mondo.

Aoi: I’m here and I’m ready!

Toko: N-Not that anyone cares about me being here...

Chihiro: We... we really have to do this... Don’t we...?

Junko: Ugh... I don’t know if I’m mad or glad that I didn’t drink more...

Hifumi: Miss Enoshima, why are you so pale?

Junko: Because I feel like sh*t, duh.

Kiyotaka: Junko! Please avoid vomiting again! This time there is no water present!

Junko: Shut up! I know! I just went a little overboard...

Mukuro: A little is an understatement, Miss Party Animal.

Junko: Shut your garbage can, stinky.

Makoto: Please don’t fight...

Kyoko: Well, everyone seems to be accounted for. Usami, Monokuma! We’re ready!

And as she said that a screen lit up...

Monokuma: Great! Then elevator is open! And don’t worry about me taking over announcements, its only for the trial that two of us are together. Once that’s done, we’ll once again return to our switching schedule!

After those words, monitor dimmed, and elevator between the statues opened up. All of us have entered... All of us except...

Kiyotaka: Leon, do not dawdle! You have to come as well!

Leon: Actually... I kind of don’t.

Sayaka: What?

Leon: Look, it’s obvious that I’m not guilty and I’d really rather not put my life on the line, so... here!

He pressed something on his handbook...

Leon: Man, this perk is great! Practice Skip! I can simply choose not to attend any Class Trial if I want to! Isn’t that great?

Mondo: You son of a bitch! You’re ditching us!

Leon: Hey, I helped guard the body, didn’t I? Plus, if I’m not at the trial, they can’t kill me if you guys screw up!

And screen lit up again...

Monokuma: Puhuhuhu... Do you really think so? The rules never said anything about needing to attend the trial. It talked about all students... Whether attending the trial or not. So if they happen to screw up... You’re still going down same chute as them! Not to mention that they can still vote for you too! Puhuhu... Bahahahaha!

Leon: ...huh?

Leon: Wait! I changed my mind! I want to go with! I didn’t realize!

Monokuma: Too late! Perk activation has already been accepted! But you can watch the trial through the monitors!

Leon: Guys! Guys, please, for the love of everything, get it right! I’m sorry, okay!

Byakuya: Idiot.

Leon tried to rush towards the elevator, but it was already closed. I could hear him banging when suddenly I felt movement... We were going down, Leon being left alone on the surface.

Once the elevator started moving, mood changed as well. Leon’s sudden stunt was pretty much forgotten and everyone was now focused on not looking at each other. I stood beside Junko, even if she smelled terribly right now, she was someone I could trust...

And eventually we reached the bottom. A giant courtroom awaited us, with seventeen podiums arranged in a circle.

Each had a name on it...

Monokuma: Now that you’ve arrived, please take your assigned spots and get ready for the Class Trial.

He was sitting on the large throne up there... And right beside him, on equal level was another chair, in which Usami was sobbing uncontrollably.

Not wasting any more time, we all took our spots. One spot was left empty and another was occupied already as we came. Yasuhiro’s portrait on a stand was where he would have stood, with a bloody X painted on, extremely stylized, almost like a hieroglyph.

Somebody killed him. And that somebody is... One of us.

Junko. Mondo. Hifumi. Leon? Byakuya. Yasuhiro.

One of us committed a murder... And we had to expose them to save ourselves.

Makoto. Sakura. Aoi. Kyoko. Toko.

Who? Why? I had no idea yet. None of were prepared for this... And yet...

Kiyotaka. Celeste. Sayaka. Chihiro.

Mukuro.

I had to do this. I had to fight. For myself, for my sister, for the friends I’ve managed to make so far, for Yasuhiro.

To live through this Class Trial.

Class Trial Start

Evidence Review:

Monokuma File 1

The victim was Yasuhiro Hagakure, the Ultimate Clairvoyant.

The victim’s body was discovered in Yasuhiro Hagakure’s cottage at 10:08 PM.

The fatal wound was dealt between 9:25 PM and 9:45 PM with a long sharp object.

No other wounds were detected on the body, and no traces of poison were found in victim’s bloodstream.

Yasuhiro’s Door

Yasuhiro’s door was already unlocked when the body was discovered and had no signs of break-in on its lock.

Sword Rack

A rack affixed to a wall in Yasuhiro’s cottage. Supposed to bear a relic Lemurian sword.

Signs of Struggle

The wall above Yasuhiro’s body has cracks and scratches on it, being evidence of notable struggle.

State of Yasuhiro’s Body

Yasuhiro was found sitting up against the wall in his own Cottage. He had a large wound through his chest and no other visible wounds, but his index and middle fingers were covered in surprising amount of blood, while rest of both of his hands were mostly clean.

Relic Sword

An ancient sword, dubbed Lemurian Mageslayer. Is a perfectly real weapon, with tip covered in blood.

According to Kyoko’s analysis it has Yasuhiro’s, Makoto’s and someone else’s fingerprints. Potentially multiple other people.

Yasuhiro’s Dying Message

“I was right. 11037.”

I have no idea what that means, but handwriting definitely matches Yasuhiro’s.

Closed Cottage Blinds

All cottages visible from the party had blinds on the back windows closed, making it impossible to see inside.

Makoto’s Account

According to Makoto, he discovered Yasuhiro’s body and simply wanted to help when he pulled out the sword. That’s when he was spotted by Kiyotaka.

He also confirms that someone has a perk that allows for unlocking of locked doors, but refused to reveal who has it.

Hifumi’s Guestbook

A log of everyone entering and leaving party area since its start.

9:00 PM – Party is beginning. Sayaka, Sakura, Aoi, Mukuro, Junko, Kyoko, Leon, Kiyotaka, Mondo, Hifumi and Makoto are present. Toko is briefly present before departing.

9:05 PM – Byakuya passes by and enters Hotel building.

9:15 PM – Sakura leaves for Rocketpunch Market.

9:35 PM – Aoi leaves for cottages.

9:40 PM – Aoi returns, dressed in swimsuit.

9:45 PM – Byakuya leaves Hotel building and departs for cottages.

9:50 PM – Sakura returns from the supermarket. Sakura and Makoto depart for cottages.

10:00 – Nighttime Announcement. Sayaka, Aoi, Mukuro, Junko, Kyoko, Leon, Kiyotaka, Mondo and Hifumi are present.

10:05 – Kiyotaka leaves for cottages.

Unusual Shards

Along with shards of broken glass punch fountain, there were some distinctly different shards made of crystal material.

Toko’s Hemophobia

Toko f*ckawa is hemophobic and passes out at mere sight.

Non-Attendees’ Accounts

Chihiro was outside the Hotel gates when the party started, and saw Sakura leave for supermarket, before going to Entertainment Center, where she saw Celeste.

Celeste was at the supermarket when the party started and had an argument with Toko there shortly after. She also saw Sakura arrive to the supermarket and left for the Entertainment Center afterwards.

Toko left the Hotel just as the party started and went to the Supermarket. After an argument with Celeste, Toko wanted to come back to the Hotel, but saw Chihiro in front, so she hid and waited for Chihiro’s departure before returning to her own cottage.

Kyoko’s Examination Results

According to Kyoko, Yasuhiro was definitively dead of blood loss by 9:45 PM.

Chapter 8: Chapter 1 – Panic at Despair Beach – Trial, Part 1

Chapter Text

Class Trial Start

Monokuma: Now that you’re all gathered up, we can get on with the basic explanation of the Class Trial.

Monokuma: During the trial, you will debate which one of you is the killer, and convince everyone else using your evidence.

Usami: At... At the end... The votes will determine the results of who is chosen as the blackened...

Monokuma: If you vote correctly, then the killer will be punished with an execution!

Usami: But if you do it wrong... Then... everyone else gets killed... And the blackened gets to escape...

Monokuma: Now then. Let the Class Trial begin!

Monokuma: See, that wasn’t so hard. Now stop your sobbing, it will interrupt the best part.

Celeste: Before we begin... I do have a question. Regarding the trial room... Why are there seventeen podiums? There is only sixteen of us after all. Well, fourteen with Yasuhiro dead and Leon absent, but their podiums are present too.

Monokuma: Oh? Well, I’d love to answer, but Usami would be way better suited to explain that. So, Lead Teacher, how about it? Why the seventeenth seat?

Usami: Uhh! Uhm! I! Hope Fragments!

Monokuma: And there you have it.

Kyoko: She’s avoiding answering questions again...

Celeste: To be expected at this point. I suppose that will have to remain a mystery.

Sayaka: I have a question too! Why... why is Yasuhiro’s portrait here? It’s so grim...

Monokuma: Oh, that one I can answer myself! It’s so that your friends are with you in your most perilous moments!

Usami: Th-That’s right! Friendship persists forever... Even... even... uwaaah...

Monokuma: Shut up!

Makoto: Is that why Leon also has a portrait?

He was right. In Leon’s spot, there was a portrait too, although with no sorts of bloody marks on it...

Monokuma: Of course! He’s there with you in spirit too, after all!

Hifumi: So... How are we meant to figure out who it was?

Kiyotaka: I am certain that Class President Kirigiri has a good guess already!

Kyoko: That may be true, but you shouldn’t rush to that. We have to all be on the same page by the time voting comes.

Makoto: That’s right! We have to be completely certain... Whoever it ends up being.

Mondo: You have the audacity to open your damn mouth?!

Makoto: I told you! I didn’t kill him!

Hifumi: And yet, you were found by the body, holding the murder weapon, Mister Naegi.

Toko: S-So, that means that the boring boy is the c-culprit!

Junko: Ugh... Do you guys have to shout...?

Makoto: No! I—

Kyoko: Stop. The discussion will go nowhere if we just keep pointing fingers. What we should start with is discussing how exactly the crime was committed.

Mukuro: That makes sense. Process of elimination will get rid of any innocent people.

Sakura: Then let us discuss the murder itself.

Nonstop Debate Start!

Kiyotaka: I assert that the one who was murdered was Mister Yasuhiro Hagakure!

Chihiro: He was probably killed in his room...

Sayaka: The killer probably did it during the party.

Celeste: But can we be certain about that?

Toko: That’s r-right! He could have been killed long before the stupid party!

> Monokuma File 1

No, that’s wrong!

Break!

Mukuro: No... That’s impossible. Yasuhiro definitely was killed during the party.

Toko: Huh? What d-do you know about that? Did you do it?

Mukuro: No. But Monokuma File clearly states that the time period when he was stabbed falls entirely within the timeframe of the party.

Toko: The M-Monokuma File?

Aoi: Toko, did you not take a look at it?

Toko: I s-saw it beside me when I woke up, b-but... I didn’t look...

Byakuya: Ridiculous...

Sayaka: So it was specifically during the party then...

Junko: No duh... Can we get to more relevant discussions? Before my headache gets any worse...

Hifumi: It would seem Miss Enoshima has had quite a night...

Mondo: Fine, what-f*ckin-ever, how about that weird-ass sword? Where the f*ck did it come from?

Byakuya: Is that seriously not obvious enough yet?

Mondo: The f*ck is that supposed to mean?

Mukuro: Calm down, Mondo. That sword came from the scene of the crime itself. We know because of...

> Sword Rack

Mukuro: The sword rack in the cottage. It clearly was used to hold the sword that was used to kill Yasuhiro.

Mondo: Wait, he got a real sword in his f*cking cottage? All I get is the old pickaxe...

Sakura: My room has several training devices. Not enough to replace proper equipment, but it helps me stay in shape.

Makoto: Wait, you guys are getting special stuff in your rooms?

Kiyotaka: It probably has to do with the Ultimate Talents!

Aoi: Of course! Yasuhiro was the Ultimate Clairvoyant, so it makes sense for him to have some weird magical artifacts!

Celeste: Well, magical is a big word. Although they did seem to be real antiques at least.

Mondo: Fine, whatever, we figured out the sword. Can we talk about the obvious things now?

Kyoko: You mean Makoto, right?

Mondo: Damn right!

Nonstop Debate Start

Mondo: He’s the f*cking culprit! It’s obvious!

Makoto: No! I’m not! I swear!

Makoto: I just happened to find the body and tried to help!

Sayaka: Makoto... You do realize that you should have just called for help instead?

Makoto: I panicked! I found a dead body! Already stabbed!

Celeste: But do you have proper evidence to back up that claim?

Makoto: I...

> Hifumi’s Guestbook

I agree with you!

Break!

Mukuro: No, there’s no way Makoto could have done it. Assuming Hifumi’s guestbook timetable is correct.

Hifumi: It absolutely is!

Mukuro: Then Makoto has only left the party after the stabbing has already happened. He couldn’t have killed Yasuhiro!

Chihiro: Which means that Makoto is innocent...

Junko: If only completely brainless. Seriously... Pulling a sword out to help...

Makoto: I’m sorry...

Sakura: It’s fine. Heat of the moment often clouds one’s judgement.

Kyoko: Indeed. Makoto has left the part at 9:50, while Yasuhiro was stabbed at latest at 9:45.

Mukuro: Making Makoto being the culprit completely impossible!

It is too early to make that call!

Celeste: Indeed, it is unlikely for Makoto to have stabbed Yasuhiro.

Mukuro: Yeah... that’s what I said.

Celeste: However... him being the culprit is not out of question yet.

Celeste: Simply listen to what I have to say.

Rebuttal Showdown Start!

Celeste: Makoto may not have been the one to stab Yasuhiro...

Celeste: However that does not make sure...

Celeste: That he did not cause Yasuhiro death himself.

Celeste: As long as that uncertainty exists...

Celeste: We cannot remove our suspicions from Makoto.

Advance!

Mukuro: But if Makoto didn’t stab Yasuhiro, then how could he have caused Yasuhiro’s death?

Celeste: It is obvious, is it not?

Celeste: If Yasuhiro was still alive when Makoto found him...

Celeste: Then his attempt to remove the sword...

Celeste: Could have been the cause of Yasuhiro’s death.

Celeste: Way more so than the stab itself was.

Celeste: Now, do you see my point?

> Kyoko’s Examination Results

I’ll cut through your words!

Break!

Mukuro: Celeste, you’re precisely right. If Makoto discovered Yasuhiro still alive and killed him by pulling the sword out, then Makoto could have been the blackened.

Celeste: There. I am glad we could come to an agreement.

Mukuro: However... We know for certain that Yasuhiro was already dead by the time Makoto found him. Thanks to Hifumi’s schedule and Kyoko’s examination.

Celeste: Hm? We... do?

Hifumi: Mister Naegi has left the party at precisely 9:50 PM!

Kyoko: But Yasuhiro had to have already been dead by 9:45 PM... It means that Makoto, same as everyone else who was at the party during the stabbing time mentioned in the Monokuma File has perfect alibi.

Celeste: I see. I was not aware of your examinations. I retract my statements.

Mondo: Giving up so easily?

Celeste: There is no point in pursuing an argument when you already know you’re wrong.

Byakuya: That is... assuming that Kyoko is telling the truth.

Sakura: Are you implying that Kyoko may be lying about Yasuhiro’s time of death?

Sayaka: But why would she do that? If she did so, she’d put all our lives in danger, even her own!

Byakuya: It would make sense for a killer to conceal evidence.

Kiyotaka: It is impossible for Class President to have committed the crime! She was present during the entire duration of the party! Hifumi’s guestbook confirms it!

Mondo: Take that, dipsh*t. Hey, maybe you’re the one who snuck off to kill the guy? I saw you sneaking at the party!

Byakuya: First of all, I wasn’t sneaking. I had no choice, since to get a meal of any quality you have to visit the restaurant. And second of all, if your guestbook you keep talking about is as good as you claim, then it should be obvious I couldn’t have been the killer.

Aoi: He’s right... There’s no way to get out of the Hotel without passing the party area, and he did go to have dinner during the time Yasuhiro was stabbed.

Byakuya: See? Even the dim-witted ones get it.

Mondo: Grh...

Junko: Ugh, can we like, make a proper list of everyone who has a perfect alibi already? Going through everyone one by one is making my head worse...

Sayaka: That would be... Me, Makoto, Kyoko, Mukuro, Taka, Hifumi, Mondo, Junko, Leon and... I guess Byakuya?

Sakura: Which leaves me, Hina, Toko, Celeste and Chihiro.

Aoi: Wait, me too?!

Kiyotaka: While I do not wish to cast direct doubts just yet, your absence was noted in the guestbook!

Hifumi: Indeed, Miss Asahina’s changing trip did not go unnoticed.

Kyoko: To make things clear, I think the people who weren’t at the party in the first place should be cleared up first.

Celeste: There is little to clear up here. But if you insist...

Nonstop Debate Start!

Sayaka: People who weren’t at the party...

Sayaka: That’s Toko, Celeste and Chihiro.

Celeste: I already provided my alibi. I have no more to say.

Toko: W-What? You’re going to gang up on me like that?

Hifumi: But... nobody is doing that yet.

Toko: ‘Yet’! I heard th-that ‘yet’!

Junko: What next, one of you will suggest the programmer loli did it?

Chihiro: L-Loli?!

Chihiro: I... Couldn’t have! I was in front of the hotel before leaving to Entertainment Center!

Sakura: But nobody has seen that... I saw you when leaving, but...

Chihiro: I really didn’t enter the hotel area at all! I swear

> Non-Attendees’ Accounts

No, that’s wrong!

Break!

Mukuro: Actually... Putting all your girls’ testimonies together, you support each other pretty well.

Mukuro: Celeste’s account is supported by Toko seeing her at the Supermarket and Chihiro seeing her at Entertainment Center.

Mukuro: While Chihiro’s account is supported by Sakura and Toko both seeing her at the entrance, and then Celeste meeting her at Entertainment Center.

Celeste: Which is precisely what I meant by my alibi.

Byakuya: I see we’ve completely eliminated possibility of two people working together already?

Mondo: What will it even take to make you shut your damn mouth?!

Kyoko: Calm down, Mondo.

Kyoko: It’s true, the possibility is there... But it’s extremely slim.

Kyoko: Monokuma, if the culprit has an accomplice... Only the one who did the killing would be blackened, right?

Monokuma: Oh? Of course there would only be one!

Kyoko: Which means that only they get to leave, while their partner would get executed.

Usami: That’s... true... How horrible... such horrible way to punish friendships...

Sayaka: That doesn’t sound like the kind of friendship that should be rewarded...

Kyoko: There you have it, Byakuya. Now you tell me, why would anyone work together?

Byakuya: You... do have a point. Fine. I do still believe that possibility exists, even if not in context of this case specifically...

Junko: The hell’s that supposed to mean?

Byakuya: Funny that you ask.

Aoi: Hey! Can we get back to the point? Yasuhiro! We need to figure out who killed him!

Celeste: Well, with my and Chihiro’s alibis established, that does leave Toko unaccounted for after Chihiro has left the entrance.

Toko: H-Huh?

Hifumi: Eh? Miss f*ckawa?

Kiyotaka: The timeframe would line up perfectly with time of the murder! This is not an accusation, but a statement of fact!

Toko: Y-You! You! You’re t-trying to set me up, aren’t you?!

Sayaka: I think it couldn’t have been Toko... We’ve all seen what happened to her, right?

What happened to Toko... Sayaka must be referring to...

> Toko’s Hemophobia

Mukuro: You’re talking about Toko’s hemophobia, right? She passes out whenever she sees blood.

Sayaka: Yeah! She felt so weak when me and Leon were taking her to her cottage...

Toko: D-Don’t you call me weak...

Kiyotaka: Oh! I see! If Toko is afraid of blood, then there’s no way she could have committed such a bloody murder!

Junko: Yeah, she’s gonna need to find some poison or choke a bitch if she wants to kill.

Mukuro: Junko!

Toko: Yeah! I d-didn’t do anything! So, stop accusing me...

Hifumi: But, if Miss f*ckawa didn’t do it... That leaves no suspects!

Kyoko: Not quite. There are still two suspects.

Mondo: Yeah... And both are girls... Damn.

Hifumi: Oh, Miss Kirigiri! Do you mean Miss Asahina’s and Miss Ogami’s absences?

Kyoko: Precisely.

Kiyotaka: But... which one? Both line up with the time in which Yasuhiro was stabbed!

Sayaka: And neither has an alibi...

Toko: I b-bet it was the swimmer girl... Look at her b-boobs quivering in fear...

Aoi: My boobs got nothing to do with it!

Celeste: I lean towards the culprit being Hina as well. I myself have seen Sakura at the supermarket. However, I do not believe anyone saw you getting changed.

Aoi: No! I didn’t do it! Really!

Hifumi: Could the swimsuit change have been... To hide the bloodstains?!

Mondo: No way...

Aoi: It wasn’t! I just wanted to swim! Please, everyone!

Aoi... everyone’s ganging up on her... But... Was she really capable of doing something like that? The possibility is so slim... And I... I...

I don’t believe she could have committed this murder. The tears she shed at Yasuhiro’s body were genuine, there couldn’t be any doubt about it... But that won’t be enough to convince everyone.

I’ll have to save her, and everyone else here...

Nonstop Debate Start!

Toko: It was t-totally the idiot swimmer girl!

Aoi: No! I would never kill anyone! Please! Believe me!

Kiyotaka: Does anyone have any specific evidence pointing towards her?

Kiyotaka: Anyone at all?

Celeste: Her alibi is notably flimsier than Sakura’s. One was at least seen at supposed destination.

Byakuya: And there was a good point made just now about a change of clothes being a suspicious move, considering circ*mstance.

Aoi: No, please! I didn’t do it!

Kyoko: Everyone, calm down...

Makoto: Hina couldn’t have done it!

Mondo: sh*t... And nobody saw her get changed...

Chihiro: It... can’t be right...

> Closed Cottage Blinds > Open Cottage Blinds

I’ll do what I must...

Perjury!

Mukuro: Wait! Mondo! Just now, I realized!

Mondo: Huh? What is it?

Mukuro: Everyone, listen... Aoi is innocent. I saw her get changed.

Kyoko: You... saw her?

Mukuro: You know the windows on the backs of the cottages? Aoi’s cottage has its back towards the party area. And it... happened to have open blinds when you were changing.

Aoi: It... what?!

Junko: Time-out. Mukuro. What the. Hell. Are you doing?

Mukuro: Junko... trust me. I know it wasn’t Aoi. It’s. True.

Junko: ...

Junko: Fine, whatever, I believe you. On that second part specifically. My head is throbbing way too much to deal with this kind of sh*t right now...

Hifumi: Wait! Are you telling you, Miss Asahina’s bare body was hidden in plain sight and... everyone just missed it?!

Mondo: You don’t have to sound so f*cking disappointed.

Celeste: You really do not have to be, Hifumi. Considering that Mukuro, however well-intentioned, has just told a lie.

Makoto: What? Mukuro, did you really?

Mukuro: No. That’s the truth.

Sayaka: I can’t believe Aoi would really kill someone...

Makoto: Neither can I!

Junko: I already agreed to play along...

Kyoko: Tsk...

Byakuya: Such a ridiculous spat...

Hifumi: I refuse to believe that such sight would be missed by me!

Mondo: Yeah... Why the f*ck didn’t you open your mouth till now?

Sakura: Your words waivered, Mukuro.

Kiyotaka: The party was checked thoroughly! Why did nobody else make such an observation, Mukuro?

Mukuro: Maybe they just weren’t paying attention to the windows? Other cottages were pretty unrelated.

Kiyotaka: I see. But I still struggle to believe it! I apologize but I must continue to suspect Miss Aoi Asahina!

Toko: She t-totally did it... like b-bimbo she is...

Chihiro: No... Aoi is so nice... She’d never—

Please, don’t fight!

Usami: Oh, uhm... Well, you see... There’s this special thing there! It can allow everyone to stop fighting and discuss things in proper, orderly manner! It’s very helpful to solve conflicts like this one!

Monokuma: Morphing Feature. It’s called the Morphing Feature.

Usami: Anyway! I am going to activate it so everyone stops fighting and starts being nice and calm again!

I way to properly talk our points out, huh... Suddenly I felt like ground below me was giving out as the podium ejected itself from the ground and started raising into the air on a huge pole... Well, that was perfectly safe. The movement continued as the podiums all raised way up high, rearranged in two rows...

I know Aoi couldn’t have done it. My lie was flimsy, Junko was expected, but Celeste caught it too... I had to prove it. To prove that Aoi couldn’t have been the killer. To convince them.

Debate Scrum Start!

Question: Is Aoi the killer?

Team Mukuro: No, she isn’t!

Members: Mukuro, Junko, Aoi, Makoto, Sayaka, Chihiro, Kyoko, Byakuya, Yasuhiro.

Team Celeste: Yes, she is!

Members: Celeste, Hifumi, Sakura, Mondo, Kiyotaka, Toko, Leon?

Start!

Kiyotaka: Aoi has left the party at a convenient time!

Chihiro: But... she wasn’t the only one absent during the party...

Hifumi: Miss Asahina certainly had no reliable alibi...

Sayaka: But Toko and Sakura have no clear alibi either...

Toko: You know why I c-couldn’t have done it!

Makoto: Maybe, but that does leave room for doubt, Toko...

Sakura: Are you trying to say that I am the culprit?

Junko: Well, it certainly is possible that someone else is the culprit.

Mondo: sh*t... Did someone here really have guts to commit a murder?

Aoi: No! I’d never kill! I’d never murder Yasuhiro!

Celeste: All this hinges on Mukuro’s lie. Do you really believe her that much?

Mukuro: Whether it’s a lie or not doesn’t matter. We have to work through all possibilities first.

Team Mukuro: This is our answer!

Break!

Mukuro: If you believe that I have lied, that’s fine. But you can’t deny that we have to view all the possibilities first before jumping to immediate conclusions.

Mondo: Damn... Still, what f*cking options do we have? The only ones that could have done it are her and Sakura.

Aoi: No! There has to be someone else... Right? Some other possibility! I haven’t done it, but Sakura...

Hifumi: Perhaps... the culprit was Yasuhiro himself?

Junko: No... please, don’t tell me... you’re seriously? Really? Now? Ugh... My head...

Hifumi: I mean, the possibility is there, right? We should totally talk it through!

Nonstop Debate Start!

Mondo: Yasuhiro committed suicide?

Mondo: What a load of bull!

Kiyotaka: It is a possibility indeed! However, I have to admit it is a slim one!

Toko: W-Would suicide even count for the murder rules...?

Chihiro: It probably would...

Hifumi: Indeed! Killing yourself is killing someone, right?

Makoto: I guess... It’s possible Yasuhiro didn’t fight anyone after all...

> Signs of Struggle

No, that’s wrong!

Break!

Mukuro: No. Yasuhiro definitely put up a fight against some attacker... There’s no way those marks on the wall behind him could be anything else.

Kyoko: Indeed. Right there at the scene, there were definitive cracks on the wall behind Yasuhiro. It is likely they were caused during an active struggle.

Hifumi: So... Mister Hagakure really couldn’t have killed himself?

Sayaka: Is it possible that Yasuhiro did that...? I mean, caused the marks by himself while struggling with himself?

Celeste: Sayaka, not you too...

Sayaka: I know, it does sound rather stupid, but... I don’t want anyone to die! And, well... It is Yasuhiro. What if he thought he was possessed?

Junko: You know, you’ve got a point there. With Yasuhiro we can’t really rely on victim actually acting reasonably.

Kyoko: No. I am certain that it could not have been a suicide. There is clear evidence pointing to the fact that someone else had to have stabbed him.

Byakuya: Well, will you reveal it to us then, detective? Or perhaps you want us to keep guessing ourselves?

Evidence that points to someone else stabbing Yasuhiro. Kyoko’s talking about...

> Relic Sword

Mukuro: It’s the fingerprints, right?

Chihiro: The fingerprints...?

Kyoko: Correct. I have managed to hastily throw together a simple fingerprinting kit. I managed to pinpoint that there are at least three sets of fingerprints on the sword’s handle. Two were rather expected. Yasuhiro’s and Makoto’s. But the third is someone else, undoubtedly.

Aoi: So, a third person did end up touching the sword...

Sayaka: But... But how? Who could have done that?

Byakuya: Well, there is only one option left, since all others are eliminated.

Sakura: Byakuya...

Sayaka: That’s not what I meant. I mean, to enter the room, you’d need either Yasuhiro’s permission or the key... But he was so paranoid over the last few days!

Celeste: That is true. He was acting jumpy and scared. It would be surprising that anyone managed to break into his room.

Kyoko: But his room wasn’t broke into. It was simply left open.

Kiyotaka: Maybe it was simple negligence on Yasuhiro’s part?

Mondo: No f*cking way. Guy was jumping at shadows over his own dumb prophecies, no way he’d just forget to close the door.

Chihiro: Maybe then someone did break it open? Or lockpicked it?

Junko: There’d be signs of stuff like that, you know.

Hifumi: What about Mister Hagakure’s own key? Maybe it was stolen?

Kyoko: I found his key on his body. And while its true that it could have been planted, I doubt he’d stay silent when he realized his key was missing.

Byakuya: So, what you’re saying is the culprit didn’t steal the key, didn’t lockpick and wasn’t let in. Are you implying there was another entrance somehow?

Junko: I’d suggest that they climbed in through the window, but, like... Then why leave the door open?

Kyoko: I think it’s time for one of us to speak up.

Aoi: Huh?

Mondo: The f*ck do you mean?

I know what Kyoko means... The person that needs to speak up in order for this to progress is...

Select a person.

...

Mukuro: She’s right, Makoto. You can’t keep it hidden anymore.

Makoto: Mukuro...

Mondo: I knew the f*cker was hiding something!

Kiyotaka: Makoto was hiding evidence? That is extremely irresponsible and counter-productive!

Makoto: I just didn’t want suspicions to be cast before any actual evidence is found! Having a wrong perk doesn’t make you a killer!

Celeste: I agree with that. However, if some happens to have a perk that is obviously related to the case at hand, it is your obligation to reveal it.

Makoto: I... alright. Someone here has a perk that lets them freely open doors. Any door locked by another student.

Junko: Well, this is bullsh*t...

Mondo: Huh? Why?

Junko: Don’t mind me... God, does anyone have some water?

Kyoko: Well, Makoto? It’s about time you showed us how your own perk works.

Makoto: I... alright. I’m sorry about this, but with all the evidence, I...

Makoto simply taps his handbook a few times before holding it up. The text is displayed plainly.

Ultimate Martial Artist’s Perk

The Strongest

Can open any locked door, as long as it has been locked by a fellow student.

...

With that, all eyes were on Sakura. I knew it. Deep down, I knew it all along, since I knew what Aoi’s perk was, but still... I didn’t want to consider this.

Sakura simply dips her head...

Class Trial Suspended

Chapter 9: Chapter 1 – Panic at Despair Beach – Trial, Part 2

Chapter Text

Class Trial Resumed

Everyone was staring at Sakura silently. She was simply dipping her head, silent herself. It has been a few agonizing moments since Makoto has revealed her perk, but they felt so slow. Nobody wanted to break the silence, everyone was waiting for her to say something in her defense... Even me. Sakura...

Aoi: Sakura! Say something!

Sakura: Hina...?

Aoi: Come on, say something! Makoto’s got to be wrong, right? You’re not the culprit, right?

Sakura: Hina, I...

Aoi: You can’t be the culprit! Because I... I thought... I thought we were friends!

Sakura: ...

Sakura: I’m sorry, Hina. But I must remind everyone of something here.

Aoi: Yeah, what is it Sakura? Come on, shatter this case open!

Sakura: ...

Sakura: You were never clear of suspicion either.

Aoi: ...huh?!

Celeste: Oh my. Such a callous backstab.

Kiyotaka: Wait, you’re accusing your own friend?

Sakura: I am simply stating the truth. Hina’s case was simply put to side when Mukuro’s words were doubted. Sure, I could have done it, but I am not the only one still.

Byakuya: So, you’re choosing to say that she has done it?

Sakura: Correct. There is no other way.

Aoi: S-Sakura...

Toko: I knew it!

Kyoko: Wait just a second. The door. It—

Sakura: Does it matter?

Mukuro: Huh?

Sakura: We already discussed Yasuhiro being irrational lately. It’s entirely possible that the culprit simply deceived him and he let them into his own cottage. With him dead, we can never know.

Sayaka: But... his paranoia...

Sakura: Can you truly rely on that? It’s weak evidence, Sayaka.

Mukuro: Aoi doesn’t have strong evidence against her either!

Sakura: Yes. However, your lie was called out and you still refuse to properly acknowledge it as either truth or lie.

Mukuro: Gh...

Mondo: There’s also the swimsuit sh*t, right...?

Hifumi: Swimsuits? I mean, surely enjoyable, but how does that connect back to the case again?

Sakura:As someone pointed out earlier, if the culprit were to stab Yasuhiro like that, they would have been covered in blood. Asahina changing made perfect excuse for that.

Aoi: Sakura... Why...

Kiyotaka: But when Sakura arrived, she was wearing same thing she did as when she left! There’s no way she could have changed!

Sakura: Indeed. If I really did stab Yasuhiro, then where would the blood that would have been on me go?

Mukuro: You could have simply changed into another outfit yourself!

Sakura: And go through between boys’ and girls’ cottages, risking being spotted?

Mukuro: Aoi took the same risk, according to you!

Aoi: S-Sakura... how... how could you...

Celeste: Are we at an impasse yet again?

Kyoko: No. This is but a desperate accusation of the cornered.

Sakura: Is it now? Then perhaps you can tell me what happened to the blood I would have had on me?

Mukuro: I can tell you. Easily. I know exactly how you got rid of the blood. You simply used...

> the pool

Mukuro: Just before you ‘came back’, a fountain of strawberry punch got knocked over into the pool, along with Makoto. And first thing you did is rush directly to jump in!

Hifumi: Oh, I see! If she jumped in while blood was still fresh, it would simply wash off!

Mondo: And the color wouldn’t even be seen... Punch was same color!

Toko: A-Are you saying that pool really w-was... b-blood...?

Celeste: Toko, please do not pass out at a mere memory of blood.

Toko: Gh!

Kiyotaka: But this is ridiculous! What were the odds of that happening? Sakura would have no way of knowing that the fountain would fall over! Especially not with such a convenient timing!

Sakura: Indeed. It was a mere accident and I was simply trying to help Makoto.

No, that’s a lie... There was a way to ensure that the fountain would fall, and you did just that. I just have to show it to everyone...

Nonstop Debate Start!

Sakura: The fountain falling over was just a coincidence. There is no way to ensure stuff like that.

Kyoko: Was it really a coincidence, though?

Byakuya: Why did you even bother with that gaudy thing? It was a stupid idea to bring it from the start.

Sayaka: Well... It looked pretty...

Junko: But, like, it’s totally possible to make sure ‘a thing falls’, isn’t there?

Makoto: As in setting up a trap?

Kiyotaka: Not possible! I made sure that the party area was trap-free prior to beginning of it!

Hifumi: Maybe Miss Ogami just threw something at it? From the gaps between the cottages?

Mondo: Hitting that giant thing would be pretty easy...

> Unusual Shards

I agree with you!

Break!

Mukuro: You’re right, Hifumi. I believe Sakura threw a certain object at the fountain. I think that because when we were investigating, I noticed something was definitely wrong with the glass fountain. Particularly, its shards.

Celeste: You are talking about unusual crystal shards mixed in with the glass, are you not?

Mukuro: Yeah. I don’t know about you guys... But to me they looked like they could totally have been from a crystal ball.

Chihiro: Oh! Thinking about it... It probably was from that...

Mukuro: Which would have made for great and convenient throwable.

Kyoko: Coincidentally, Yasuhiro didn’t have any crystal balls on his body. I do not know if that is normal or not, but if he lost his during the struggle...

Mukuro: Then the culprit could just have used it to knock the fountain over from between the cottages and then rushed into the stained water!

Makoto: Then... me getting knocked over only helped add an excuse for Sakura to do it?

Sakura: No. That is a flimsy theory. It is too reliant on luck of circ*mstance and not being spotted.

Mukuro: All the same things that apply to your theory about Aoi!

Sakura: Then we’re at an impasse. And there is no more evidence left to present, is there?

Mukuro: No... you’re wrong. There is evidence. One final piece of evidence that Yasuhiro left for us.

> Yasuhiro’s Dying Message

Mukuro: 11037. I was right. That is the message Yasuhiro left for us with his own blood. And that is—

Your weakness is showing!

Sakura: Yasuhiro’s message? Can you be certain?

Mukuro: Sakura... Please!

Sakura: Your words are as weak as your will. Now listen...

Rebuttal Showdown Start!

Sakura: You claim that Yasuhiro somehow...

Sakura: Has left us a dying message...

Sakura: Written in his own blood...

Sakura: While bleeding out with the sword in his chest?

Sakura: There’s nothing pointing to message being his.

Sakura: It could simply have been an addition by the culprit.

Sakura: Do you see the weakness of your ideas now, Mukuro?

> State of Yasuhiro’s Body

I’ll cut through your words!

Break!

Mukuro: No! I’m certain the message was written by Yasuhiro himself.

Mukuro: His own fingers are covered in blood, while the rest of his hands weren’t. He clearly used them to write out the message.

Sakura: Even so. Those numbers have no meaning.

Byakuya: I do have to admit, she has a point there. Sounds like some cryptic nonsense to me.

Hifumi: Perhaps we replace numbers with letters...? Like, 1st, 10th, 3rd, 7th... AJCG?

Sayaka: Are we certain they weren’t actually letters?

Kyoko: No. They were most certainly written to be numbers.

Sakura: See? The numbers have no meaning, Mukuro. Even if that message was written by Yasuhiro himself, it does not incriminate me at all.

Sakura: Hina has done it. That’s all there is to it.

Aoi: S-Sakura...

Toko: I... I c-can’t get it... which one of those idiots did it?

Sakura: It was Hina. There is no other option.

No, Sakura. You’re lying... I don’t understand why you would do this. Why you would kill Yasuhiro and blame it on Aoi when opportunity came, but... I have to expose you. I have to expose you in front of everyone and show them the true meaning of Yasuhiro’s final message!

Sakura: Admit your failings, Mukuro. Your theory is weak. And my own resolve is absolute.

Argument Armament Start!

Your theory is weak.

You lack the resolve to overcome things.

My determination will not waver.

I will not give in.

Asahina is the murderer.

The only way for me to have done it...

Is too convoluted to be true.

Both you and I know it, and yet...

You refuse to acknowledge reality.

Your accusations lack strength.

Your words are filled with deceit.

I understand wishing to protect others...

But blind faith leads only to ruin.

Do you really trust Asahina more than me?

Are we not friends as well, Mukuro?

If you truly believe that I have killed Yasuhiro...

Then simply tell me this.

Final Blow!

How are those random numbers connected to me at all?

Twelve

Thousand

Prophecies

of Supernova

It all ends here!

Break!

Mukuro: ...Twelve Thousand Prophecies of Supernova. The book Yasuhiro wanted to release at one point. That is what holds the answer.

Sakura: Didn’t you just say that the book is unfinished? Are you going to claim that the answer is hidden in something that doesn’t even exist?

Mukuro: The full volume will never exist now. But when we were searching the cottage, I found what would a part of it. A notebook, designed to contain exactly one thousand prophecies of his, numbered with twelve. This would mean it could contain the prophecies 11000 through 12000...

Byakuya: ...seriously? Don’t tell me that idiot actually...

Mukuro: And if we go to 37th prophecy in that book... it explicitly mentions you, Sakura. “The ogre will fail the test of will in one of the motives.”

Mukuro: That’s what happened, isn’t it, Sakura? Monokuma’s motive got better of you?

Aoi: Sakura... You... you traitor! I can’t believe I trusted you!

Sakura: Do not feel bad, Hina. I had nothing against you specifically.

Kyoko: So, you finally admit it?

Sakura: Hm.

Kyoko: Mukuro, since you managed to finally make her give up this fruitless resistance, maybe you should do the honors. Please summarize the case again, from beginning to end. One last time. To make sure everyone is convinced.

Mukuro: Alright... I can do it. Sakura, I did consider you a friend. Even if briefly. But this has to end.

Everything happened like this!

Closing Argument Start!

The murder occurred during the party we held at the pool area in front of the Hotel tonight. When the murder was occurring, most people were at the party. Only exceptions were... Byakuya, who was at the Hotel itself. Chihiro and Celeste, who were at the Entertainment Center. Toko, who was at her own cottage. And the culprit, who was coming back from the Supermarket, bringing spare glasses. But after reaching the Hotel Grounds they didn’t immediately go to the party itself. Instead, they went towards Yasuhiro’s cottage.

I am uncertain of what happened between the two, but the culprit clearly made their way into the cottage. And to do that against a door locked by the paranoid Yasuhiro, they used their own student handbook and unique perk that only they had.

Once inside, a confrontation ensued, that quickly turned violent... Yasuhiro probably tried to draw the sword first, but was disarmed and killed by it, which would explain why it had both his and culprit’s fingerprints.

Having committed the murder, the culprit had to do something to cover their tracks. Not bothering to mess with crime scene or even checking if Yasuhiro was still alive, they simply grabbed a crystal ball off of his body and left the cottage. Yasuhiro was, in fact, still alive by then, and he used his final moments to write a dying message. Pointing to prophecy he made, fulfillment of which he got to see.

The culprit, meanwhile, made their way outside, and spotted their chance. From between the cottages, almost unseen, they could throw the crystal ball at the huge punch fountain in the party area, knocking it over into the pool. Coincidentally, that knocked Makoto into the pool as well. Once that was done, all they had to do is rush and jump into the pool before anyone could see them covered in blood. Color of punch and blood in the pool mixed together, making sure nobody knew that the culprit was bloodstained in the first place.

With that, their little cover-up was complete. But the murder had one final aspect. When Makoto, wet from his fall, was going to his cottage to change, he walked past Yasuhiro’s cottage, spotting him through the window by chance. Panicking, Makoto rushed inside, trying to help, but ending up only pulling the sword out of Yasuhiro’s chest... And that’s exactly when all of us spotted him.

Only one person had the perk that would allow them to open Yasuhiro’s cottage, and his dying message pointed to that same person. That person is you, Sakura Ogami, the Ultimate Martial Artist!

Break!

Mukuro: There you have it. This is how you killed him, isn’t that right, Sakura?

Sakura: ...it would appear it was my own resolve that wasn’t strong after all.

Monokuma: Puhuhu... What’s that I hear? Lack of objections? Lack of proposals? You know what that means!

Usami: Uwuh... Let’s just end this already!

Monokuma: It’s voting time!

Usami: And please, everyone, do vote! If you don’t, Monokuma will execute you regardless!

Monokuma: Hey, there’s an exception! That absentee lazy bastard Leon won’t be executed for missing a vote! Might be if the vote is wrong though...

Suddenly, without any warning, screens on our podiums lit up. Without much hesitation, I voted for Sakura... And after a bit of waiting, a large screen lit up above Monokuma and Usami. Revealing vote tally. Fifteen votes for Sakura...

Usami: I just hope everyone made the right choice...

Monokuma: Oh, don’t worry, Usami! They did! The bastards got it right.

Usami: I’m sorry, Sakura...

Aoi: Why... Why?!

Trial End.

The trial was over. Votes were cast and tallied and we all knew who the blackened was. Sayaka and Makoto rushed over to try and console Aoi, who broke down crying. Rest of us gathered around Sakura, though most were keeping a safe distance...

Mukuro: Sakura... Why? Why did you do it?

Sakura: You said it yourself, didn’t you?

Kyoko: The motive. You let yourself be tempted by promise of your memories back?

Sakura: Indeed.

Hifumi: For Miss Ogami to give in... What could possibly you be forgetting?!

Mondo: Seriously!

Sakura: I suppose I should tell you the full story of how it happened. Mukuro’s version was mostly right. With one exception... I encountered Yasuhiro before he went into his cottage...

***

I was coming back with the packaged glasses in the bag. Chihiro was no longer at the entrance when I came in, and there I saw him... On the boys’ side, he was peeking at the party, probably observing it. As he spotted me, he yelled...

Yasuhiro: Stay back! I know what you planned!

Before rushing back into his cottage. I wanted to know what was wrong, so I left the glasses by the intersection and without checking in with the party I went towards his cottage.

I tried knocking and talking, but he wouldn’t respond. I simply wished to confront him properly, to try and get him to cease his fear. So I unlocked the door and tried to force the conversation...

Yasuhiro: No... Leave! Get out! Help!

Sakura: Yasuhiro. You need to calm down.

Yasuhiro: I know... you gave in, didn’t you! I was right! I was right, the ogre gave in! I—I won’t go down!

Sakura: What? Gave in...?

Yasuhiro: Don’t pretend! You gave into the motive! But you won’t kill me! I won’t die so easily! I’m not dying like this damn it!

And so he grabbed the sword off the rack and tried to rush me. I had easy time disarming him and pinning him to the wall with one hand, holding sword with another... And that’s when I realized. That this was my chance. To learn what happened. Learn what I lost. The motive lingered in my mind for a while by then and in that moment of opportunity... I lost my resolve.

Stab!

Yasuhiro: Grhh--!

Sakura: ...

Yasuhiro: I... knew... it...

***

Byakuya: So you saw an opportunity and simply couldn’t resist it? How pedestrian.

Mondo: sh*t! I thought you were like, strong! What the hell was it that made you kill?

Sakura: ...love.

Celeste: Love? Really?

Sakura: I am still a girl, after all. And I had a person I loved... Who also was the only person in the world still stronger than me. His name was Kenshiro.

Junko: Wait... You killed because you wanted back memories of your combat buddy boyfriend? Girl, that’s sad... In, like, both ways.

Sakura: No... Kenshiro, he... He was sick. When I was going to Hope’s Peak, he had 6 months left to live, according to doctors... He promised me he’d be strong and would overcome it. And then we’d fight again... So that I could truly earn the title of the strongest person in the world.

Sakura: But in reality... Years have passed already. Kenshiro... What happened to him? I... I had to know. I couldn’t... Let go of the thought. To the point where it consumed me.

Chihiro: Sakura... I’m so sorry...

Sakura: There is no need to feel sorry for the wicked, Chihiro. In the end, I wasn’t strong enough... And did something unforgivable. Even if I were to live through this, I’d never be able to face Kenshiro again...

Junko: Hmm... Hey, Monokuma~ A question? Sakura here did kill, so she gets her memory back now, right?

Monokuma: Hmm... You know what? I say... It’s going to be 50/50! You killed but you also failed, so I’ll do something Usami really loves!

Usami: Oh no...

Monokuma: A consolation prize! Instead of all your memories, you get one hint as to the answer to the main question you hold!

Monokuma: Look at the name of your perk again. It’s true, you know.

Sakura: What? What is that supposed to—GH!

Mukuro: ...The Strongest...

Sakura: That means... Kenshiro... I... Monokuma!!!

Hifumi: I see! If Miss Ogami is ‘The Strongest’, that means that her lover no longer is!

Kyoko: I think the implication is a bit more grim than that...

Hifumi: More grim? Do you mean...

Sakura: Grraaah!

Monokuma: Puhuhu... That rage on your face mixes so well with despair you’re facing, but we’re not done yet! Because now is the best time!

Usami: I’m... so sorry, Sakura... But I can’t do anything about it, because of the rules...

Kiyotaka: This isn’t right! None of this is right! That’s no justice!

Mondo: sh*t, can’t we do something? She killed a guy, but seriously, we can’t let that little f*cker have her either!

Monokuma: Now then, I’ve prepared a very special punishment for Sakura Ogami, the Ultimate Martial Artist!

Sakura: Gh... Hh... No... I won’t give into rage. Not in my final moments...

Kyoko: One last thing, before you’re taken, I have one final question. Why did you resist the interrogation so much? Why didn’t you just admit it?

Celeste: I have same question as well. In retrospect it’s obvious you forced yourself to resist Mukuro’s accusation.

Monokuma: Let’s give it everything we’ve got!

Sakura: ...because I’d rather have Hina see an execution of a traitor, rather than that of a friend.

Mukuro: Sakura...

I looked over at Aoi, not listening and still being consoled by Makoto and Sayaka...

Monokuma: It’s punishment time!

Mukuro: I’m sorry about this.

Sakura: No. It is I who should be apologizing... But I’m afraid I won’t be able to earn anyone’s forgiveness any longer...

Sakura has been found guilty!

Time for punishment!

***

Weight of Sin

Ultimate Martial Artist Sakura Ogami's Execution: Executed

A collar suddenly snaps around Sakura’s neck, its chain dragging her away and behind the doors. Screens light up as we can see she was moved to an empty room with nothing in it, only a very tall ceiling. And way above it we could see Monokuma and Usami, staring down at her...

Suddenly a large rectangular wooden platform fell down. Sakura easily caught it, holding it up above her as she couldn’t turn it inside the narrow room... And then it began. Monokuma and Usami took turns, throwing things down the room, all landing onto that platform that Sakura was forced to hold up...

Monokuma threw heavy things, such as weights, gym equipment and simple iron bars, while Usami threw down plushies and pens, small and tiny things. Still, despite her efforts... Weight was building up. Sakura was struggling to hold it up, even as Monokuma was increasing size of his objects, throwing a whole barbell down, a full-sized motorcycle, a broken TV... But Sakura was holding strong. Eventually camera showed us above the room with all the heavy things on Monokuma’s side that he kept throwing and light things on Usami’s.

Even as Monokuma was running out of stuff to throw down onto Sakura, she held strong, holding up weight many times her size above her head to avoid being crushed by it... Her knees were starting to tremble, her face and body glistening from sweat...

Eventually, Monokuma ran out and only one thing was left to throw on Usami’s side. A single feather. She gently picked it up and threw it down the well... Sakura, holding the platform, squeezed her eyes shut as her arms were starting to give out under the immense weight. And the moment that feather landed on top of giant pile of things...

SQURLCH.

The platform lands on the ground. Blood can be seen seeping between the boards. Sakura is nowhere to be seen anymore.

***

Monokuma: Puhuhu... So strong, and yet she couldn’t hold up a single feather? Guess that’s ‘strength’ for ya!

Usami: No... Sakura! You’re the one who exhausted her with heavy things first!

Monokuma: Well, that’s about it for today. Oh, but after you do leave the trial grounds, do stick around near where you came from. I have one final surprise for tonight!

Usami: Another surprise? Wait, Monokuma, come back!

The two of them left...

Kiyotaka: This is... This isn’t justice! This is horrible!

Mondo: Holy f*cking sh*t...

Celeste: So that is what Monokuma’s executions are like. How gruesome...

Byakuya: I see...

Aoi: She... she didn’t deserve it...

Mukuro: Aoi?

Aoi: Even if she did betray me... And try to set me up... She didn’t deserve this...

Celeste: Are you certain? Not only did she kill someone, she directly accused you, attempting to get us all killed just to escape with her life.

Aoi: Yes! I’m certain! Even... even the most horrible people don’t deserve to die like that!

Sayaka: Hey, let’s just go back to cottages already...

Celeste: Indeed. I do apologize, Hina. I simply wanted to make sure.

Kyoko: Yes. We all need to rest, especially after that.

Junko: Yeah... jeez, as if I was getting any sleep tonight before that...

Byakuya: Really now? You don’t look too shaken.

Junko: Ughh... Go get f*cked by an entire palm tree, I’m not in a mood for this...

Toko: I l-looked away... I was afraid of seeing blood...

Makoto: It’s okay, Toko. I... I could barely look myself...

Toko: D-Don’t you try to console me!

Mondo: Damn... I just froze up like that... sh*t....

All mumbling their own thoughts, we went towards the elevator and it raised us back up to the surface.

***

Chapter 1 – End

Surviving Students – 14

Gift Received: Master Belt

***

Rock of Justice

First thing we saw upon leaving it was...

Leon: Holy sh*t, you guys did it! That was awesome! I mean, not the end of it, but...

Mondo: As if you helped, f*cker!

Hifumi: That was a very cowardly thing to do, Mister Kuwata!

Makoto: Hey, Leon didn’t realize it! He thought he was just saving himself.

Byakuya: Indeed. A simple, logical attempt to protect oneself. Even I can’t criticize it, aside from lack of planning.

Leon: Hey, don’t you give me compliments, it makes me feel more like sh*t than I already do when you’re the one doing it!

Chihiro: Didn’t Monokuma ask us to stick around...? For another surprise...?

Junko: He did... Where is it?

Toko: Right here, everyone!

Sayaka: Huh, Toko?

Toko: I’m r-right here! I didn’t s-say that!

Toko?: Not her, you numbskulls! Me!

We looked over to where the voice was coming from... And there she was. A second Toko, just standing there, twirling a pair of scissors on her finger... She looked different from Toko we knew, but not in body. Her mannerisms, her speech were different. Voice and appearance though...

Toko: N-No... that’s impossible... it c-can’t be?

Toko?: Oh it can and it is! Freedom! Freedom to take showers whenever I want and kill whoever I want! This is everything I’ve ever wanted!

Kyoko: Freedom to... kill?

Toko?: Oh, I guess I should introduce myself, huh?

Syo: Hi, everyone! So nice to meet you! Genocider Syo desu! I look so forward to being a member of this class! Kyahahahahaha!

Genocider Syo, the Ultimate Murderous Fiend

***

Surviving Students – 15

Chapter 10: Chapter 2 – Love and Hate, Justice and Egoism, Against World's Evil! – Daily Life 1

Chapter Text

Chapter 2 – Love and Justice, Hatred and Egoism, Against World’s Evil! – Daily Life

I was looking down the rows of cottages... Two of those would never be occupied again. Yasuhiro... he was ridiculous, crazy and stupid... But in the end, he was just scared and wanted to live. Sakura... she was wise and calm and collected. And yet, the passion she was hiding burned her from inside out... Two lives were lost yesterday. And yet, it was far from over. After all...

I look over Toko’s cottage. It now looks different from all the others, being a two-floor one. And her sign now has a second nameplate. Genocider Syo... How is that really possible? Is what they told us yesterday true...?

***

Syo: Kyahahaha! That’s right! I’m my own person now!

Byakuya: Your own person? That’s a curious choice of words. Explain yourself.

Syo: Isn’t it obvious? For long time I was stuck sharing a body with that absolute loser whose name is disgusting to even spell! But now! Now... Kyahahaha!

Toko: N-No way... That means y-you’re... really gone...

Syo: Gone? No, I’m most certainly in the reality, more real than I could ever imagine being! Ah, this is true genesis of the spring within my heart... Kyahahaha!

Kiyotaka: She’s insane! Toko’s twin is insane!

Mondo: She had to be bullsh*tting us, right? There’s no way she’s really Genocider Syo!

Toko: B-But... how?! How are you n-not in my body anymore?!

Monokuma: Surprise! I appear to offer explanation! Hey, explanation, come out and explain!

Usami: Uhm! I! Uwah!

Kyoko: ...she’s still hiding things from us.

Chihiro: Usami... Why...

Sayaka: Did you really bring a serial killer onto the island with us?

Usami: Hope... Fragments...

Monokuma: Well, Ms. Explanation failed, so I will fill in as vaguely as possible!

Monokuma: Remember how I said years of memories got taken from all of you? Have you considered the changes world suffered in meantime? The advancement of technology, perhaps?

Toko: W-Wait... are you saying that at s-some point she... Got extracted out of m-me using some technology?

Chihiro: That... sounds plausible... The advances in fields of neural science...

Syo: Oh, who cares, the important part is, the worst part of me is no longer part of me!

Monokuma: I said as much as I’m going to say! Pester Usami if you want better answers.

Junko: As if she’ll ever give any.

Usami: I’m sorry... But she is one of your classmates too... She wasn’t supposed to show up until she got better... But Monokuma released her early...

Syo: That’s right! No padded cell can contain this blood-gorious fangirl! And it’s time to paint the world red again!

Kyoko: Not so fast. Do you really think we will allow something like that?

Celeste: That is correct. It is still a killing game, and rules affect you same as anyone. If you kill, you will get found out and executed.

Syo: Oh, are you trying to make this sound like a threat? Because all I’m hearing is a challenge!

Leon: She’s... completely nuts!

Syo: Kyahahahaha!

***

Yeah. We couldn’t do much about her, but she couldn’t do much either, so we were left like that, at an impasse where we had to tolerate one another. Either way, morning announcement just sounded and I should stop staring at the buildings, so I made my way to the restaurant.

***

Hotel Restaurant

Of course, it couldn’t be anything else. It was complete chaos...

Syo: Kyahahahaha!

Kiyotaka: We can contain her somehow... right?

Sayaka: But what can we even do?

Aoi: Maybe if Sakura was here, we could tackle her and lock her up somewhere... Like that deprecated building beside the Hotel.

Celeste: However, she isn’t. And it would appear that the second best we have is being unusually hesitant.

Mondo: Look, I know it sounds stupid, but she hasn’t done sh*t yet... And you can’t expect me to raise a fist against a girl for nothing!

Chihiro: Plus... if something happened to her because she was locked up... then someone would become the blackened anyway.

Leon: Seriously, can we really not do anything about it?

Kyoko: If you have any suggestions, I am open. However, for now we will have to tolerate her presence. Still, I do recommend everyone take extra caution. Particularly, the boys.

Hifumi: The boys? Why is that?

Syo: Oh, pft, you relax, Huffy, I heard you squeal when I first came here, no man can make sound this pig-like! Kyahahaha!

Hifumi: How dare you insult my masculinity!

Junko: It was a pretty girly scream.

Hifumi: Ghh!

Mukuro: I see everyone’s coping with the new arrival well?

Junko: You said it, girl.

Kiyotaka: Junko, please avoid misleading Mukuro! Our situation is opposite of well-coped!

Junko: Did none of your textbook ever explain the definition of sarcasm either? Might want to look that up.

Makoto: Hey, Kyoko... Why did you mention that the boys should be extra cautious?

Kyoko: Because that’s the theme of Genocider Syo’s killings. She only ever kills men.

Syo: Ooh, someone’s done their homework! You get an A+, missus Class President!

Mondo: Wait, f*ckin’ seriously?!

Syo: Exactly! This ravenous killer only commits crime of pure emotion and unadulterated passion, so strong that it simply cannot be contained and has to be spilled onto the world! Kyahahahaha!

Mukuro: Hey, by the way... Where’s Toko and Byakuya? They seem to be the only two still absent.

Kyoko: It seems like Toko chose to stay holed up in her cottage. As for Byakuya, I believe he went off to investigate the Second Island on his own.

Kiyotaka: Second Island? But it’s locked off!

Kyoko: It appears that it isn’t anymore. And the robot guarding the entrance is gone too.

Junko: Why the hell didn’t you say anything earlier then?

Kyoko: I simply hoped that everyone else will arrive first, but it appears that Toko is not coming.

Leon: So, wait, shouldn’t we go explore out there?

Monokuma: That’s right!

Leon: Gah!

Monokuma: Oh, don’t be surprised. Today’s my turn, after all!

Kyoko: What do you want, Monokuma?

Monokuma: Oh, I simply wanted to confirm that, yes, indeed! Island was unlocked for all of you to shut up Usami’s whining about ‘proper reward mechanism’. From now on, if you clear a trial, you get an extra Island!

Celeste: I see. And I presume there are new facilities available on that new island?

Monokuma: Of course! More Ultimate labs, more general stuff! Usami apparently wanted to unlock them for you as you got more Hope Fragments, but we all know that ain’t happening now that the Killing Game is in action!

Aoi: No! That’s not true!

Monokuma: Huh?

Aoi: Sure... Someone may have killed... But it won’t happen again! We won’t let it!

Leon: Hell yeah! Like any of us would ever do something stupid after what we’ve seen.

Sayaka: Yes... That punishment... Nobody should ever go through something like that. It’s horrible.

Kiyotaka: And now that a murder has occurred, we can better work towards preventing any more!

Monokuma: Oh, really now? Well, then I wish you good luck with that! Puhuhu... I want to see just how long that determination can last.

Kyoko: Was that all you had to say?

Monokuma: Hmm... Yeah, I think it was.

Kyoko: Then off with you.

Monokuma: Awh... Shunned headmaster...

Kyoko: You’re not the Headmaster.

Monokuma: Hm? Puhuhu... Ahahahaha!

With sudden bout of laughter, Monokuma disappeared, leaving off a sense of unease.

Syo: So, are we going on to check that sh*t out or what?

Makoto: Well, we have to see if maybe that island has some way of escaping.

Hifumi: It feels more and more unlikely by the second...

Mondo: Stop f*ckin’ ruining the mood! As if the scissor-crazy bitch hasn’t ruined it enough...

Syo: Ooh, you’re so foul-mouthed and big and strong and biker... You’d look great with your arms spread out if you get what I’m saying. Kyahahahaha!

Junko: That’s one crazy bitch, alright. She’s stealing my vibe!

Chihiro: But... the new island. It might be dangerous, right? Should we really just go there?

Mukuro: I’m pretty sure Byakuya will have triggered all the potential traps for us, then.

Chihiro: Don’t say that...

Leon: Can we just go? The sooner we split up to search the better.

Kyoko: Fine. Our goal is to examine as much of the island as we can, then gather back here at lunchtime. Syo, you’re coming with me.

Syo: Huh? Who are you to order me around?!

Kyoko: If you want to keep privilege of free movement, you will have to prove that you aren’t that crazy. That involves doing what I say.

Syo: Ghh... To be bossed around by some ice queen... Fine! Whatever! I wanna see new places, meet new faces, find new maces, bash in some cases~

***

Sports Center

Generally, the Second Island looked similar to the First... Although obviously the buildings and such were different. I made a round around the roads. There was some old ruin I didn’t bother to check, a sports center, a pharmacy and a library... Past the library there also was a road down to a small beach with its own beach house. Why did the archipelago need two proper beaches anyway?

Regardless, knowing what’s where, first place I went to was the Sports Center. And inside was... Well. It was a very large public gym. Tons of exercise equipment, various racks of dumbbells, several Ultimate labs... And Celeste.

Celeste: Ah, Mukuro. Here you are.

Mukuro: Hey, Celeste... Didn’t expect to see you in a place like this?

Celeste: And can I ask why not?

Mukuro: Well... You’re all... ladylike. And this is a gym.

Celeste lets out an amused chuckle... Did I just get baited into some joke?

Celeste: Of course, I’d usually never go to a place like this. However, we are on an otherwise uninhabited island with little amenities. It is worth at least seeing every options, even ones you aren’t using, am I wrong?

Mukuro: No, you’re right. Sorry.

Celeste: There is nothing to apologize about. However, it would appear whatever your talent is, it is not related to sports.

Mukuro: Huh? How do you know?

Celeste: Because I examined this place closely. Maybe you can come to the same conclusion as I did?

Well, now that was a challenge. I went around the place, checking out the plates on the Ultimate labs... Ultimate Baseball Star’s lab seemed to be leading outside, on the other end of the center. And Ultimate Swimming Pro’s lab was probably a pool. Finally... Ultimate Martial Artist’s lab... Yeah, I don’t think I should be checking that one.

Mukuro: Wait... That’s it. There aren’t any more labs. Which means...

Celeste: Indeed. All the sports-related talents are accounted for in this building. Similarly to how Entertainment Center and Supermarket on the First Island did for their appropriate talents.

Mukuro: Huh... I guess it makes sense that the labs get attached to appropriate venues. Wait, that doesn’t make sense. Where’s Sayaka’s lab then? Wouldn’t it be in the Entertainment Center too?

Celeste: I can’t say. Perhaps future islands have a location more directly related to music?

Mukuro: If more people have to die, then I don’t want to find out.

Celeste: Hm. I disagree. It is good to be rewarded for our efforts. However disappointingly.

Mukuro: I guess... Better than nothing.

Celeste: I am glad we can see eye to eye on this.

Deciding to leave Celeste be for now, I headed into one of the labs... Not Sakura’s obviously, but...

***

Ultimate Swimming Pro’s Lab

I can’t say I expected anything different. It’s just a normal indoor pool, with the lanes and such. There are also some high boards, but generally... It was just a pool. Well, at least there were some people of note here...

Mukuro: Aoi, Sayaka! How are you?

Sayaka: Oh, hey, Mukuro. We were just checking out Hina’s lab...

Aoi: Hey, Mukuro... I didn’t really get to properly thanking you for defending me earlier, but... Yeah, thanks...

Mukuro: Anyone would have done that. I knew you had to be innocent. You’re... not the kind of person who would do something like that.

Aoi: But... neither was Sakura and...

Sayaka: Hina, calm down... Remember, deep breaths...

Aoi: Yeah... You’re right. Thanks, Sayaka.

Sayaka: Don’t worry. If you need a fellow girl’s shoulder to lean on, I’m always there.

Mukuro: That’s kind of you, Sayaka. And, Aoi, you can rely on me too if you feel bad, alright?

Aoi: I... yeah... Thanks, both of you... I just still can’t get over how Sakura betrayed us... And tried to get us all killed...

I bit my lower lip, remembering Sakura’s words... Looks like everyone was decent enough not to let Aoi know about her choice. I wasn’t about to break the bubble either... Maybe it’s for the best. Sayaka didn’t hear that either, being busy consoling her, but... I think she realized something looking at me now, if serious look is any indication.

Mukuro: Uhh... To change the topic. How’s your lab?

Aoi: Oh... It’s cool, I suppose. It’s a great pool, I’m just not really in the mood.

Sayaka: Hey, you could still take a swim. Maybe it will help you get your mind off of bad things?

Aoi: I don’t know...

Sayaka: Hey, how about this! Let’s swim together and relax a little. It’ll be fun!

Aoi: I... okay! Sure!

Sayaka: Can you go grab us swimsuits then?

Aoi: Uh-huh! Sure! Mukuro, will you join us?

Mukuro: No, I think I should still check out the rest of the island.

Aoi: Alright then!

With that she ran off to the closet on the other end of the lab... Leaving me alone with Sayaka.

Mukuro: Hey... Thanks for looking out for Aoi.

Sayaka: So, what was it that Sakura said?

Mukuro: Huh? How did you know?

Sayaka: Like I said, I’m psychic.

Mukuro: ...

Sayaka: Just kidding! I simply have good intuition. But you gave it away already.

Mukuro: She... She didn’t want Aoi to see her death as something sad or traumatic, so... Main reason she accused her was to make sure she’s seen as an enemy, not a friend when she got executed...

Sayaka: Oh... That’s... That’s awful...

Mukuro: Yeah... I can’t bring myself to tell her either. I think nobody can. And those that can just don’t care enough.

Sayaka: I see... Thanks for telling me. Seeing how bad she was feeling I just couldn’t help but offer her help. She still took it all too personally...

Mukuro: Yeah. Hopefully she can move past it. Seeing her in the downs is just depressing.

Sayaka: Well, cheering people up is kind of my profession and my dream! So I can’t just ignore someone who really needs it.

Mukuro: Oh, yeah... You are an idol singer, aren’t you?

Sayaka: Mhm... Have you forgotten already?

Mukuro: No, it’s just that it kind of slipped my mind.

Sayaka: That’s why I always wanted to be an idol. Idols are, well, idols! Someone people can look up to and feel encouraged by! To be cheered up and strengthened. And helping people is important part of that.

Mukuro: I see... I suppose that does make sense... For some reason I always imagined it being way more... drama-filled. And that idols are more like Celeste than, well, you.

Sayaka: Oh, that’s true as well... But myself and my bandmates are not like that at all. I really just want to bring smiles to people’s faces.

Update! Earned Sayaka’s 2nd Hope Fragment.

As I heard the beep from my handbook, I also saw Aoi coming back...

Aoi: Hey, Sayaka! Here’s swimsuit for you. I picked out a pink one, like that dress you wear on stage!

Sayaka: Ah! It looks so cute! Let me try it on... Oh, see you around Mukuro.

Aoi: Yeah, thanks again!

Mukuro: I’ll see you around girls.

Waving to them as they headed for changing rooms, I left the lab myself, heading towards the other one...

***

Ultimate Baseball Star’s Lab

How is this a lab? No, I get it, baseball and such, but it’s just a big baseball field! It’s not even indoors, the lab door just leads to Sports Center’s backyard and there’s a baseball field there! There’s not even a fence! How is that any sort of ‘lab’?! ...I should probably not be as confused about it as I am. Especially since I can see two people looking over the field itself.

Mukuro: Hey, guys. You’re checking out the ‘lab’ too, huh?

Kiyotaka: Indeed! This looks like an extremely well-designed baseball field!

Leon: Whatever...

Kiyotaka: Leon, are you not happy? I always assumed Ultimate students would be happy to partake in their own talents?

Leon: Happy? Seriously? It’s just a practice field. Screw that!

Mukuro: Practice field?

Leon: Yeah. Not like there’s anyone I could actually play with here. I mean, sure, it’d be fun to maybe try and get a real game going... But we don’t have enough people or anything. Right now all this place is good for is practice.

Kiyotaka: That is great! This means you can put all effort into preparation for your next game, and push yourself to next level!

Leon: ...seriously? You actually expect me to train on my own? No way, dude!

Kiyotaka: What? Why wouldn’t you?

Leon: Because I don’t care about these stupid practices. I don’t even wanna look at this place anymore. See you guys later.

With that, Leon walked back into the Sports Center...

Mukuro: Well, looks like he’s serious about his idea of quitting baseball...

Kiyotaka: What a completely unacceptable behavior!

Mukuro: Unacceptable? Why so?

Kiyotaka: He’s simply abandoning his sports success because he refuses to put any effort into it! That kind of laziness can not be tolerated!

Mukuro: Well, maybe he doesn’t like baseball really much. He’s just talented at it.

Kiyotaka: I apologize, Mukuro, as you are most likely an Ultimate in some regard too, but I do not believe that talent is all there is to it. Hard work, effort and dedication are things that truly give one success! Talent is but a stopgap, and I’m certain that Leon will come to learn it the hard way!

Mukuro: Well, he does want to try doing something of his own. Learning music, right? How is that not a good thing? It would require effort too.

Kiyotaka: Clearly, it’s because he is not the type to be able to succeed at it. Music is even more complicated than sports! I have to admit, even my own attempts at it, with best of my efforts, yielded little success. Much less someone like him!

Mukuro: You don’t have to bash on the guy so hard. He just likes to take it easy. Maybe you should relax a bit more too, you know. I know, there’s been... things going on, but you don’t have to be on guard all the time.

Kiyotaka: I appreciate your concern, but I decline. A real student must dedicate himself completely at all times! Maybe with my own personal effort I can prove that hard work overcomes any sort of talent, and show people like Leon that practice does make perfect!

Update! Earned Kiyotaka’s 2nd Hope Fragment.

Mukuro: Okay then... Uh, I’ll go check out the other places on the island for now. Will you be fine by yourself?

Kiyotaka: Don’t concern yourself, Mukuro! I’ll go find Leon and perhaps some more talking can get him to come to his senses!

Mukuro: I see... Well, good luck with that.

***

Pharmacy

Well... this looks like an average drug store. Shelves lined with various medicines and such, all labeled. No obvious poisons or anything at first glance either. I guess if someone gets sick, this will be of help.

Junko: Well, that’s disappointing!

Mukuro: Hey, Junko. What’s disappointing?

Junko: Isn’t it obvious? It’s all just... medicine! No poisons, no drugs, nothing... interesting! This place is just boring!

Chihiro: Well... I think it’s good that there’s nothing dangerous here...

Junko: Oh, there’s plenty dangerous here. Just nothing interesting!

Mukuro: Dangerous? Like what?

Junko: Have you ever mixed caffeine tablets with sleep medicine? I still don’t remember those two days! It’s just that... There’s nothing obviously interesting here. I expected, I dunno, a big shelf of poisons or maybe some gacha machine with heroin in it, but nope. Actual, normal pharmacy.

Mukuro: I think I have to agree with Chihiro here. The less dangerous things are around, the better it is.

Chihiro: Yeah... I don’t like the idea of someone poisoning someone else...

Junko: Bleh, you two are boring.

Chihiro: I just... don’t want anyone else to die... Because Yasuhiro... And Sakura too...

Junko: Oh no, don’t tell me...

Chihiro: I was there... Outside the gates because I wanted to help... To be on guard in case something happens... Maybe if I... noticed something I...

Mukuro: Chihiro...

Chihiro: But... I was too weak and useless... I couldn’t do anything, and now both of them are—

Junko: Oh, shut it, will you?

Mukuro: Junko!

Junko: Don’t Junko me. Listen here, lil’ g-.. girl. You got nothing to do with those two idiots attacking each other. It’s plain stupid to take blame for irrelevant bullsh*t like that. We don’t need anyone with martyr complex around here.

Chihiro: I... Alright, I’m sorry... I just... can’t stop thinking about what I could have done differently to have... helped...

Junko: Who cares? It’s useless to focus so much on “what if” when it changes nothing. Just make conclusions on what you have actually done wrong, realize it was nothing and move on.

Mukuro: Easy for you to say.

Junko: Yeah. It is. Because I live healthy lifestyle and don’t get hung up on boring stuff like that.

Chihiro: I... Thank you, Junko. And you too, Mukuro.

Junko: Oh, Mukuro, have you checked it out yet? There’s a library by this island’s beach!

Mukuro: I saw it, but I’m yet to actually look into it.

Junko: You should try! There’s a big picture book section, just for someone who can’t read!

Chihiro: Junko, why are you always mean to Mukuro...?

Mukuro: Because she’s a bitch. That’s her thing.

Junko: Gah! Owh! Yuck! Oh no! A body has been discovered! Your words have shattered my heart!

I simply rolled my eyes as Junko dramatically fell on the ground, sticking out her tongue.

Mukuro: I’ll just go check out the library. Stay safe you two.

Chihiro: You too, Mukuro.

Junko: What, not even a reaction to your dear sister’s demise? That’s cold. Who’s the bitch here now?

***

Library

This place was... huge. Like, 5 floors huge with giant atrium, from which you could see all the other floors right past the entrance and big ornate staircases leading to second floor... There was even a freaking fountain in the middle, and a chandelier size of it hanging at the ceiling...

But on first floor, past the ‘general’ section bookshelves, on two sides there were two lab doors. I guess I’ll start with one on the right side of the building... Ultimate Fanfic Creator’s Lab...

***

Ultimate Fanfic Creator’s Lab

This was... Surprisingly library-like too. Except shelves were lined not with books, but with issues of manga and cases of anime discs... There was a TV rig, probably for watching that, with a couch and all. And there was a drawing table, big and well-lit. With Hifumi sitting at it.

Mukuro: Hey, there...

Hifumi: Eep!

He quickly shuffled some paper. As he turned around, I could see him stuffing what looked like a manga volume into his pocket.

Mukuro: You’re checking out your lab?

Hifumi: But of course! I am glad you came by as well, Miss Ikusaba! This is pristine environment for creation of comics!

Mukuro: And what’s with all the anime and manga then? It almost looks like Ultimate Otaku’s lab...

Hifumi: Oh, don’t underestimate the critical importance of having good amount of reference material, Miss Ikusaba. A... very good amount of it. Of... very good... reference material...

And he’s drooling like a creep. I get the feeling that I don’t want to properly examine most of the shelves in here.

Mukuro: I see... And what was that you were reading?

Hifumi: Oh! I was surprised to find it here... But it looks like a proper print copy of one of my best works involving Princess Piggles! Looks like whoever designed this lab truly is a fan of my own fanwork!

Mukuro: Or they’ve just done their research well...

Hifumi: But other than that I don’t think I have much to actually show you... Yet! Now that this is at my disposal, my creativity can flow!

Mukuro: Uh-huh... Well... Good luck with that, I’ll go check out the other lab.

Hifumi: Farewell, Miss Ikusaba! I promise my creations will shock you when I have them ready!

I wonder if that will be a good kind of shock or not...

***

Ultimate Writing Prodigy’s Lab

This was obviously expected... Toko’s lab. Again, just like Hifumi’s, it was actually library like, though shelves were lined with... Well, literature. There were even display cases, showing Toko’s own books, neatly lined up. What wasn’t expected is seeing Toko and Byakuya both in this lab.

Mukuro: Hey, you two. I thought you weren’t joining us?

Toko: Gh- What are you d-doing here?

Mukuro: I’m exploring the island? Checking out the labs?

Toko: Well, th-there’s nothing to help us escape here... Only a quiet place to write... Or it w-was until you showed.

Mukuro: So, why weren’t the two of you at the breakfast meeting?

Byakuya: Are we obliged to report to you? Or anyone here, really.

Mukuro: No, but you can’t stop me from asking.

Byakuya: It should obvious if you remember the current circ*mstance. Use your brain, I know you have one.

Mukuro: ...you two are avoiding Syo, aren’t you?

Toko: Of c-course! She’s like my impersonator now... L-Looking and sounding like me...

Mukuro: Well, with tones of your voice, I’d say she barely sounds like you... Plus, you don’t constantly wave scissors around.

Toko: Hmph... The only positive quality you could see in me is n-not being a psycho?!

Mukuro: That’s not what I said. And you, Byakuya?

Byakuya: ...I simply went ahead to explore the new island. And yes, I do believe there is nothing unreasonable about wanting to avoid a serial killer. Speaking of... There is another lab in this building. Right through this door.

Byakuya motioned his head to the door... Not the door back to library, there was another. Huh.

Byakuya: That is all. And before those who came through here come out, I’ll be taking my leave.

Toko: W-Wait, don’t leave me alone!

Byakuya: Ugh...

With that Byakuya left, Toko scampering right after him. What is up with those two...? Well, regardless, I have another lab to check out it seems...

***

Ultimate Murderous Fiend’s Lab

Well, this didn’t fit the library aesthetic at all. This small room was more like some occult shrine, with a giant wall of photos... All men, all... decently attractive. All pinned to it with scissors. Candles burning around, more scissors pinned into walls and floor and pretty much everywhere, an entire rack of unused ones... A workshop table of some kind too... Looks like it really was her lab.

Syo: Oh, look, someone else showed up! Hiii!

Kyoko: Mukuro. Good to see you.

Mukuro: Hey... So, this is the killer lab...

Syo: Indeed, a wonderful lab... A bit too gloomy for my tastes, but look at this! A beautiful wall, with all my favorite men...

Kyoko: You mean your past victims.

Syo: Poteyto-Potahto.

Mukuro: I see... Kyoko, how are you holding up?

Kyoko: Well enough. Why do you ask?

Mukuro: You know. You’re kind of the one watching her... So I’m just making sure.

Kyoko: I appreciate the concern, but trust me, I can keep myself safe if needed.

Syo: Oh, girl, you’re safe from me, I told you already, so relax your braid.

Kyoko: I am not planning on letting you run loose.

Syo: Didn’t we talk about it earlier? I can’t kill even if I wanted to without getting found out and executed! Stop being silly.

Mukuro: Somehow I doubt that’d stop you anyway...

Kyoko: Exactly. Which is why I’ll keep watching you for as long as needed.

Syo: Ugh... Stuck with an ice-queen-type girl, I’ll never be able to hook up a guy...

Mukuro: You mean hook up with a guy?

Syo: I said what I said~

Kyoko: Well, this lab doesn’t have anything new... She already had scissors on her, and her cottage has some as well.

Syo: And I won’t hesitate if you’ll try to take my signature away from me!

Kyoko: I won’t. But I won’t let you use it either.

Syo: I WoN’t LeT yOu UsE iT eItHeR, Oh I’m Miss Law Enforcement, look at me!

Kyoko: ...

Mukuro: I’ll just leave you two... to it. Good luck, Kyoko.

Kyoko: Thank you.

***

Chandler Beach

Passing past the library and through a tunnel in the rock formation, I headed to the beach... Well, it looked a little more private than the one on the First Island with the rock formations blocking off other entrances aside from just swimming through to over here... It even had a little beach house, with separate changing rooms, working shower stalls, vending machines, a closet full of various equipment... All you’d need for a fun beach time, I guess. On the beach itself, Makoto and Mondo were looking at the sea itself... Those two together, huh?

Mukuro: Hey, guys! What’s up?

Mondo: Oh, hey there! We’re just looking for f*ckin’ anything useful.

Makoto: Maybe those surfboards in the storage could be useful to try and get around?

Mondo: Are you stupid or something? There’s no f*cking way anyone can swim over to land, especially not on a surfboard!

Mukuro: Maybe Aoi could... Though without a surfboard.

Makoto: That’s right, she’s the Ultimate Swimming Pro! Maybe if we can get her waterproof supplies, she could try and swimming somewhere...

Mondo: Are you two crazy? We’re in the middle of a f*cking ocean! Even if there was a bridge to closest land, we’d f*cking die before we could cross it, and you’re suggesting sending someone swimming? A girl even?!

Mukuro: Easy there.

Makoto: I just... Didn’t think about it...

Mondo: Tch... This place is useless...

Not even bothering to say anything else, he angrily left the beach... Well, someone’s on edge. I get why, but lashing out like that...

Mukuro: Sorry about that... I think he’s still angry about what happened...

Makoto: Yeah... But speaking of talents, Mukuro, have you managed to remember anything about your own talent?

Mukuro: No, nothing at all... None of the labs on the island were mine either.

Makoto: I see... Sorry, I wish I could be of help.

Mukuro: I doubt anyone can be... It feels like... vacuum.

I sit down on the beach, looking into the horizon as I struggle to recall anything from my past... But it’s nothing. There’s my childhood, Junko, and then... it fades. And then I’m there, in front of Hope’s Peak Academy on the entry day. It’s... years of memories... Just like Monokuma said was taken from everyone, but why more from me?

I look at tattoo on the back of my hand. The wolf almost feels like it looks back at me... It has to do something with my talent. But what-

I feel a hand lay on my shoulder. I have to suppress my instinct to not instantly throw the owner over myself...

Makoto: Hey, Mukuro... It’s alright. I don’t know why Usami did it, but... I’m sure she meant no harm... And that you’ll remember eventually and it’ll be something great.

Mukuro: Do you really think so?

Makoto: Of course! I’m sure of it.

Mukuro: Heh... thanks, Makoto. You know, I’m surprised how well you’re handling all this, considering you seem the most... normal around here.

Makoto: ...you were going to say ‘average’, weren’t you?

Mukuro: But I didn’t.

Makoto: It’s alright, I’m kind of used to people pointing it out. Well, you could say that I’m used to things... working out somehow.

Mukuro: How in the world can you get used to things just... working out?

Makoto: It’s kind of ironic that Hope’s Peak picked me as the Ultimate Lucky Student, considering that if I had to call it anything, I’d be Ultimate Unlucky Student. Things rarely go in my favor naturally...

Mukuro: Hm... Yeah. Considering what happened yesterday, I can see that.

Makoto: But! I also am used to the fact, that even when something really bad happens... Things work out in the end. It’s usually a wild ride, but... I just got used to believing, that no matter what... There’s always something to look forward to in the end.

Mukuro: That’s... surprisingly hopeful. Maybe you’re right...

He walked in front of me and offered me a hand. I took it and stood up. I didn’t really use his help, because it felt like I’d simply pull him down into the sand if I actually tried to put my weight into it, but I guess it’s the thought that counts...

Makoto: Hey, I have an idea! Let’s go for a swim!

Mukuro: A swim...?

Makoto: Yeah. The sea here is great!

Mukuro: Is... now really a good time?

Makoto: Well, nothing is happening and there’s nothing important on this island. Why not relax and have some fun to take our mind off of everything? Have you even tried the sea since coming here?

Mukuro: No... I was about to on the first day, but then... Everything happened.

Makoto: Then come on! There’s swimsuits in the beach house and changing rooms!

Makoto, still holding my hand started running towards the beach house as I let myself be led by him.

A few minutes later both of us were swimming in the sea, lit by bright tropical sun... The feeling of saltwater, pleasantly warm by this hour, Makoto laughing as I have to push him out of the way of a particularly shark rock, the waves breaking over the rocks surrounding this private beach... Maybe Makoto was right. Maybe... things will just. Work out after all... In one way or the other.

Update! Earned Makoto’s 3rd Hope Fragment.

***

Mukuro’s Cottage

I spent rest of the day relaxing on that beach with Makoto. Of course, we didn’t get full privacy, some other people came and went to check the place... We skipped the reunion at lunchtime too. Thankfully it didn’t seem like anyone was bothered by it. Two of us just relaxing, swimming, sunbathing... It was a good way to get my mind off of everything. I felt tired when I came back after grabbing some dinner in the restaurant. But despite how recent yesterday was... I let myself feel like things are actually looking up.

Ding Dong Bing Bong!

Monokuma: Attention! This is a school trip announcement. Good evening, everyone! It is now 10 PM! Nighttime has officially come, so go and get some sleep to be energetic for tomorrow’s murderous plans! Sleep well!

Screw you too, you stupid bear.

***

Monokuma Theater

Crab. I absolutely love crab! Who doesn’t? It’s a delicious meal, it looks so appetizing on your plate, and it’s a very healthy kind of meat too! It goes with almost anything, can be eaten raw or cooked and is just so beloved! Who wouldn’t love some crab?

Which is why one of my most hated things is imitation crab! It’s a fake thing that’s made to look like crab, and has a taste that is different from most things, so people who never tasted real crab will think that it’s a ‘crab taste’! When in reality it has nothing to do with the crab!

A bunch of processed fish, repainted white and red, rolled up into pretty cylinder and pretending to be crab... What reason does anyone have to love something like that? That’s just a cheap copy of something delicious and expensive! Unless you’re just someone who doesn’t know better and believes imitation crab is actually equitable to real... In which case I can only offer you pity, imitation crab lover. If only you ever had a chance to try the real thing, the fakeness of this fake would stick out like a sore thumb!

Chapter 11: Chapter 2 – Love and Hate, Justice and Egoism, Against World's Evil! – Daily Life 2

Chapter Text

Ding Dong Bing Bong!

Usami: Hello, everyone! This is a school trip announcement! It is now 8 AM! Another wonderful morning in tropical paradise! Time to wake up and be ready to cultivate wonderful hope!

Click!

I was doing a morning jog around the first island when the announcement sounded. Aoi was nowhere to be seen... I guess she’s skipping out on it now. I can see why, but I’m still worried about her. Either way... I myself don’t really feel like going to breakfast meeting much, so I decided to finish the jog and go to restaurant later.

***

Hotel Restaurant

I ended up arriving a full hour later, and by then it seems everyone has went around doing their own thing... Which probably also meant that nothing too important was said there. Either way I was having my breakfast in peace and quiet when I heard some shouts coming from downstairs... And coming up.

Kiyotaka: You’re a complete disgrace, not a student!

Mondo: Grh! When will you actually learn that I don’t give a sh*t about your stupid f*cking lectures and f*ck off?!

Kiyotaka: I will not be intimidated by the likes of you! Only weaklings would use force like that to threaten others!

Mondo: Weaklings?!

Kiyotaka: Yes! It’s obvious that you are too weak to actually be a proper student! Incapable of following a schedule or simple rules. That’s just shameful!

Mondo: Listen here, dipsh*t! Don’t you get your good boy panties in a twist over the way I choose to live! We aren’t in the school and I have no reason to listen to you spewing bullsh*t like that!

Kiyotaka: And still, you have nothing to offer other than empty threats!

Mondo: So, you really think I’m weak, huh? Huh? Huh?!

Kiyotaka: Indeed! Strength of character is the only kind of strength that matters, and you lack any!

Mondo: I’ll show you strength of character! I’ll f*cking show you!

Kiyotaka: Ah, so you want to prove it then? Fine. Then how about a contest?

Mondo: A contest? You want to die that much huh?

Kiyotaka: A contest of endurance. A test of will, so to say.

Mondo: And if I win, then will you f*ck off once and for all?

Kiyotaka: Of course. But if I win, then you will have to behave yourself when told!

Mondo: Hah! As if that’s going to happen.

...seriously? Right in front of my breakfast?

And someone else is coming up too...

Leon: Hey, what’s even going on here? I heard shouting from all the way outside.

Kiyotaka: Leon, you are right on time! We require your assistance!

Mondo: Yeah. I’m about to show that asshole what strength really means and we need a neutral party!

Kiyotaka: Someone to watch over the contest and be the witness of Mondo’s true colors.

Mondo: More like witness of you having nothing to back up your mighty-ass words!

Leon: ...seriously? You guys are seriously trying to have a contest? What even happened?

Kiyotaka: I simply pointed out unnecessary inappropriateness of Mondo’s language, as well as his cowardice in his violent behavior!

Mondo: That asshole thinks he can say sh*t like that like it’s nothing!

Leon: Come on, man! You know better than that!

Kiyotaka: Indeed. Foul language is completely unnecessary and—

Leon: He’s just being an uptight jerk to get a rise out of you.

Kiyotaka: What?!

Leon: C’mon, Mondo, relax. He’s got nothing he can do against you. Only whine and complain. And if you get angry, then you just gave him a valid excuse to be even more of a stick in the mud.

Mondo: Grhh...

Leon: Let’s ditch this loser and hang out somewhere. You don’t need to waste your time with his types.

Kiyotaka: Leon? What are you saying?!

Leon: Come on. I’ve dealt with those hall monitor types a lot. ‘Do your best’, ‘follow the rules’, whatever. Nobody cares about what I wear or color of my hair or how good I do at the practice except for likes of you.

Kiyotaka: Of course people care! Society is—

Leon: Mondo, you coming?

Mondo: Yeah... Thanks, bro. Been a while since I had to deal with a prick like that.

Leon: Hey, what are friends for, right?

Mondo: Hell yeah!

Kiyotaka: I refuse to be ditched! In fact, I am making a choice to... Uh... ‘ditch’ the two of you instead! I have tried to adjust your behavior, but it seems like you refuse to be educated. Goodbye!

With that, Taka stormed off. I think he was genuinely upset here at the end, actually... Still, that left me, quietly eating breakfast, and Leon and Mondo, laughing at something about Taka.

Leon: Oh, hey, Mukuro! Didn’t see you there.

Mondo: Wait, sh*t, were you there the whole time?

I simply nod in response.

Mondo: f*ck, I, uh... Didn’t mean for a chick to see sh*t like that.

Leon: Relax, dude.

Mukuro: Yeah, it’s fine. I’m just having my breakfast.

Leon: Hey, why weren’t you at the breakfast meeting today anyway?

Mukuro: I... just didn’t feel like going. I wanted to finish my exercise too, so...

Leon: Woah. Now that’s respectable! Well, you didn’t miss much other than Syo being crazy...

Mondo: That bitch...

Mukuro: Yeah... She’s just going to cause more trouble, I feel.

Mondo: Damn... I really did almost fall for that asshole’s bait there, huh?

Mukuro: I don’t think it was a bait or anything. He probably does believe all that he said.

Leon: Does it even matter? He’s still a stuck-up jerk who should mind his own damn business.

Mukuro: You seem... Involved with this.

Leon: It’s just annoying to see types like him try to make other people into same no-fun-allowed mold. I constantly get people on my own case for actually doing things the way I want, and I’m not hurting anybody either. But it’s ‘wrong’ for some reason.

Mondo: Do things your way? I mean, I get with me, we’re a bike gang and sh*t, but what bone do those assholes have to pick with you?

Leon: Dye your hair back to normal, Leon. Go practice properly, Leon. Dress more appropriately, Leon. Take it more seriously, Leon. All the time! Everyone thinks that just because I happen to be good at baseball, I also gotta be a rolemodel like Taka. Screw that!

Mukuro: Yeah, I can see where the pressure is coming from. But honestly, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with more discipline and such.

Mondo: Are you seriously taking his side here?

Mukuro: No. It is kind of annoying how he tried to push it onto everyone else. But if he actually tried minding his own business, I’d see nothing wrong with way he acts.

Leon: If only. Ultimate Moral Compass my ass. These hall monitor types only ever care about their ‘moral superiority’, not about what’s actually good for people. I just want to live my life the way I want, man... Is that so much to ask?

Mondo: Hell yeah! Now that’s a view I can f*ckin’ get behind.

Mukuro: To each their own, I guess.

Update! Earned Leon’s 2nd Hope Fragment.

Mondo: Hey, wanna go hang out at the ranch?

Leon: Sure. I just planned to relax the whole day anyway!

With that the two left. Well, I just witnessed... something. I guess I can understand these guys a little better. But my breakfast has gone a little cold... Eh, I’m full by now anyway.

***

Ultimate Fanfic Creator’s Lab

I thought that doing something other than jogging and exercising would be a good change of pace, especially now that library was here. I guess reading some lighthearted manga would be nice so I entered Hifumi’s lab... What I wasn’t expecting was to see him already giving recommendations to a visitor... And they were oblivious to my presence, which I thought to not change for now.

Hifumi: Well... You see... I do have some options, but...

Syo: Oh, come on! Stop the mumbly part, I’m not going to stab you, just give me the good stuff!

Hifumi: I’m just not sure it’s exactly the kind of thing you’re looking for is all?

Syo: The hell’s that supposed to mean? Look. A girl has her needs. And this girl’s needs happen to be BOYS! Cute boys. Pretty boys. Doing boy things. To each other.

Hifumi: N-No! I understand that, I understand it well! But, you see... My lab has no ‘explicit’ material.

Syo: What?! Seriously? What the f*ck kind of manga den is it then?

Hifumi: There is a lot of things that are very close, but nothing directly... ahem...

Syo: Oh, I got it, Huffy. Fine, just give me the best thing you’ve got. Man, this place sucks, can’t kill, can’t go to sleep and let Miss Gloomy Snob take over, can’t even get some good p*rn! I thought murder islands are supposed to be fun!

Mukuro: Ahem...?

Hifumi: Oh! Miss Ikusaba! Thank goodness you’re here!

Mukuro: Is there a problem?

Syo: Problem? What problem? No problems at all, I’ve just been looking for some nice ‘reading material’. Kyahahahaha!

Syo: You heard it all didn’t you? I saw you creeping there, you know. Whaaat, did you get a crush on me? Cuz it sure can’t be Huffy!

Hifumi: Hmph! Don’t listen to her, Miss Ikusaba. Rather, uh... What are you doing here? I didn’t think you’d be interested in this section of library.

Mukuro: Neither did I, to be honest... I’ve just been looking for some light manga. Relaxing stuff.

Syo: Girl, I know of good ways to ‘relax’, but too bad there’s no proper stuff for that in here. Well, writer’s imagination works wonders, kyahahaha!

Mukuro: Seriously? You’re looking for p*rn?

Syo: What? We’re teenagers! On an island! Stranded! Without adults! Jeez, it seems like only me and the blonde bimbo actually get what the f*ck the rabbit thing tried to preach. It's even a rabbit mascot! A rabbit!

Hifumi: Huh? Are you saying...

Syo: Isn’t it obvious? If it wasn’t meant to be a death game from start, it can only be one of those dating shows! By the way, before you even think about it... The rich boy is mine!

Mukuro: The rich boy...? Huh? You mean Byakuya?

Hifumi: What does Mister Togami have to do with it?

Syo: Oh, nothing. I’m just marking my turf, is all. Ooh, his cold attitude and heartless expressions... That’s a man who knows no love! And I want to fill his heart! With love AND steel! Kyahahahaha!

Hifumi: Wait, are you planning to kill Mister Togami?! And you’re just admitting it?

Syo: Hello? I’m a serial killer. I express my love like that. Some do paintings, other do serenades, I do scissor stabbing, please respect my individuality... Oh, who am I kidding, kyahahahaha!

Mukuro: Isn’t Kyoko supposed to watch over you?

Syo: Oh, I just ran off! I’m sure she’s looking all over for me right now!

Hifumi: And you came to me for... ahem... reading material?

Syo: Why else would I get away? Some things are meant to stay private. Girls must have secrets, you know.

Hifumi: But... you revealed what you wanted to me directly!

Syo: Eh, you don’t really count. Not like you would do anything with the intel.

Mukuro: What’s your game, Genocider Syo?

Syo: Sorry, I don’t like games! Or maybe I do... McMelancholy never did own any so I never could try... Oh, this is exciting! Kyahahaha!

Mukuro: You know what I mean.

Syo: Oh, you mean you think I’ve got some sinister plan? Sorry, but you’re going at the wrong crazy girl here! I’m but your average run-of-the-mill serial killer of passion.

Mukuro: And yet you admitted to wanting to kill Byakuya.

Syo: Of course! Honestly, half the boys around here are pretty damn decent! Don’t worry, I’ll leave the plain one to you though. Kyahahahaha!

Hifumi: So... you are planning a murder after all!

Syo: Planning? I don’t do that! And while I won’t deny, that I’d love to make him into a little angel on a wall... I can’t really do that!

Mukuro: Because of Killing Game rules?

Syo: Yes! I can’t believe I’m saying this, but a chance to live a life of my own is not something I’ll throw away so easily... Ohoho, no-no. I’ll get out of here first and then begin the killing spree of true love!

Update! Earned Syo’s 2nd Hope Fragment.

Hifumi: Here are your volumes, Miss Genocider... Hopefully it will... ahem... satisfy you.

Syo: Hell yeah! Okay, gotta run before Miss Lawful Boring catches up! Byee! Kyahahahaha!

Cackling and clutching the stack of manga Hifumi gave her, Syo ran out of the lab, leaving the two of us.

Hifumi: Thank you for coming, Miss Ikusaba... I was getting worried for a moment.

Mukuro: Well, at least some confirmation on her not planning to kill is good.

Hifumi: Surely. However, I do believe that a killer like that... cannot be trusted at all! Anyway, you were looking for light reading material? Oh, there are some good recommendations... Hmm... It does sound like you’d enjoy more slice-of-life kind of thing, so—

I zoned out for next twenty or so minutes, but I did walk out of Hifumi’s lab with a volume of manga that looked like a good time killer.

***

I was walking towards the bridge to the Central Island when suddenly, something jumped out at me from the bushes! I managed to dodge to the side, but as it straightened out, I quickly relaxed.

Mukuro: Junko, what are you doing?

Junko: What am I doing? Really, that’s the question here! What am I doing wrong that I let my sister become a f*cking otaku!

Mukuro: Huh? A what?

Junko: Exhibit A: Antisocial – missed yesterday’s meeting after the island search!

Mukuro: I was just hanging out with Makoto and—

Junko: Exhibit B: No sense of schedule – missed today’s breakfast time!

Mukuro: I still had it in time and my schedule is fine. Listen I just wanted some—

Junko: Exhibit C: That thing you’re carrying.

Mukuro: You mean manga? Come on, I just wanted something light to kill time, there’s—

Junko: Exhibit D: Not knowing of anything that happens around the place.

Mukuro: What do you mean? I may have missed a meeting or two, but I still know of everything happening around the island.

Junko: Really now? Then you know precisely what this is?

Junko motioned to the side of the road. I looked past and saw... a building. A huge building, stone, but mostly covered with vines and almost blending in with surrounding rock... How did I not notice it on first day?

Junko: But, little sister—

Mukuro: I’m the older one...

Junko: —worry not! I will save you and bring you up to speed! And will put nails in your bed stuffing if you start missing meetings again.

Mukuro: Whatever. So what is it?

Junko: Isn’t it obvious? It’s the

Ancient Ruin

Junko: Duh.

Mukuro: And what is it about?

Junko: Here!

She grabbed me by the wrist and dragged me to the entrance... Which, on closer inspection, didn’t look like entrance to any ancient ruin at all and more like an overgrown bunker hatch. Including a not-so-overgrown-looking machinegun and a functional keypad panel beside the door.

Mukuro: That’s... a fortified building.

Junko: Yes, and the sky is blue. But, to be honest, that’s about as much of a conclusion as anyone managed to have yesterday.

Mukuro: What are your thoughts on it?

Junko: Older sisters first!

Mukuro: ...fortified and protected building without clear purpose... Maybe that’s where Monokuma or Usami are controlled from? As well as those giant mecha monsters...

Junko: Mmm... Good guess. I think that inside this place is our escape.

Mukuro: Junko, we’re trapped on an island. How can a building have an escape?

Junko: It’s gonna sound weird, but... It’s just a gut feeling. There’s this vibe I get from it, you know?

Mukuro: Your gut feeling is only ever trouble.

Junko: Fun trouble that ends up with both of us safe!

Mukuro: But still trouble.

Junko: Bah! When did you get so boring?

Mukuro: I... don’t know.

Junko: Still no thoughts, head empty?

Mukuro: Nope. Not a thing.

Junko: Eh, whatever.

Mukuro: You don’t sound too sad about it.

Junko: Neither do you, and it’s your memory that’s lost. Why should I be worried?

Mukuro: All of our memories were taken, Junko. Years. I just... had more for some reason.

Junko: No, that makes no sense. Not a bit of it.

Mukuro: Huh? Why?

Junko: That motive from the past case? It didn’t make any sense. Like, at all.

Mukuro: I don’t understand.

Junko: Of course you don’t. That’s why I’m the smart one and you should leave figuring it out to me.

Mukuro: ...sure.

Junko: Seriously? No snippy comeback?

Mukuro: I just don’t feel like feel like trying to figure it all out. We have you, Kyoko, even that snob Byakuya. I’m struggling with my own past and memories...

I looked at the wolf tattoo again...

Mukuro: I think I’ve got enough mysteries for myself for now.

Junko: You really are all melancholy-like, huh? Next thing I know, you’ll be writing poetry and become a stutterslu*t.

Mukuro: A whatnow?

Junko: Whatever. Go on, read that manga. As usual, the big sister has to do all the thinking...

Mukuro: I’m the big sister.

Junko: In all but brain size!

Update! Earned Junko’s 3rd Hope Fragment.

With that, Junko just... walked off. Although she did turn around, saying one last thing before running off entirely.

Junko: Oh, by the way. I think Byakuya said something about your tattoo. You should talk to him at some point, he might know something interesting!

Mukuro: Huh? Byakuya? Junko, wait—

But she was already gone. Damn it. Well, I’m definitely not bothering today... There’s been a few too many confrontations already... So instead I just went ahead and returned to my cottage for the day.

***

Mukuro’s Cottage

True to my choice I spent most of the day back in my cottage, reading the manga. It was a slice of life, about a group of middle school girls getting on with a rather comedic-coincidence filled lives. I guess Hifumi was right in recommending it, it was pretty fun. Junko tried throwing some defrosted food at my windows at some point, but quickly got bored and left once she realized I was ignoring her. In the end, not much has happened until the evening. When I had just came back from grabbing some dinner, but still too early for the nighttime announcement...

Ding Dong Bing Bong!

Usami: Hi, everyone! Sorry for interrupting whatever you may be doing, but I have a very important gift prepared for all of you! I may have had to compromise with Monokuma to make it, but I sure hope you will all still love it! So, please gather in the Jabberwock Park for its presentation!

Click!

...this can’t end well. But not like I have much of a choice...

***

Jabberwock Park

It didn’t take long for everyone to gather up. The park changed only a slight bit, having the familiar stage, akin to one Monokuma used when presenting us his ‘bedtime story’ the other day... And a small arcade cabinet beside it. Wonder what this is about...

Kyoko: It seems everyone has gathered.

Toko: D-Did you seriously have to bring her too?

Syo: You mad?

Sayaka: It’s not like we have a choice. Everyone has to gather here.

Kiyotaka: Indeed, you should not bother Class President with such stupid questions!

Mondo: Look at you being all subservient... I thought you were tough sh*t, huh?

Kiyotaka: What? I simply am obeying the proper chain of command! There is nothing shameful in that.

Leon: Yeah, right, keep telling yourself that. You’re probably just compensating for not being picked as leader yourself.

Kiyotaka: Of course not! I’d—I! I never—

Kyoko: Stop it. All of you. You too, Taka.

Kiyotaka: Gh--!

Hifumi: Don’t worry, Mister Ishimaru. You get used to it...

Byakuya: Will that thing get its nonsense on with already? This is a waste of time.

Celeste: Indeed, with all of us present, I do not see why it is not starting.

Junko: Come on, there’s some fun infighting drama happening, why not enjoy it?

Kyoko: Let’s not.

Aoi: Still, Usami's taking too long to show up, isn't she?

And almost as if on cue... The usual pink flash, announcing Usami’s arrival, happened on the stage and there she was.

Usami: Good evening, everyone! Sorry for making all of you wait. But I do know that it’s going to be worth it!

Usami: I know that everyone is very much worried about all the bad things the mean Monokuma has done... But I made sure that this one, while having some of his mean surprises, is almost harmless! And it will give you something all of you rightfully deserved by now too! Ta-dah!

With that Usami pointed to the arcade cabinet.

Usami: It’s a game! “Magical Girls Unite! Hope’s Peak Edition”

Hifumi: But Magical Girls Unite! series has been discontinued entirely in favor of spin-offs and the follow-up series that was complete corporate trash! Such wonderful game ideas if only they were done in style of the originals...

Usami: Oh! Someone knows! Well, I am a magical girl myself, so I thought I’d pick a game based on that! Plus, it’s not just a game. It’s a game containing your memories!

Aoi: Containing... our memories?

Usami: Well, not literally of course. But if you play it, those with keen eye might be able to figure it out! Tee-hee-hee!

Kyoko: So, you’ve hidden clues to our lost memories inside the game?

Usami: That’s right! And there’s even special physical prizes too! The game comes with three special difficulty modes, all telling a story of a different magical girl! Complete each route and earn its prize first!

Hifumi: That’s exactly the premise that the original Magical Girls Unite! games had! Well, aside from the prizes that is.

Makoto: I see! I think I’ve played one of the new series’ games...

Hifumi: Mister Naegi! Those ones are blasphemy against all that is magical girls! I’ll just have to educate you on proper choices!

Kiyotaka: Educate? Is there really a lot to learn from games like those? They always seem frivolous to me!

Hifumi: Mister Ishimaru, not you too! That’s it! A true lesson in modern culture is needed!

Kiyotaka: A lesson in culture is one I’d always welcome!

Mondo: Tch, nerds.

Chihiro: Uhm... N-Not to interrupt, but... Usami... You said we need to earn the prize ‘first’... What does that mean?

Usami: Oh, that’s simple! There’s only one of each prize in the machine, so you need to be the first person to beat the difficulty mode if you want to have it! But it’s perfectly fine to get it and then share it with everyone!

Usami: Well, with that the presentation is complete! I hope you all enjoy it, despite some mean surprises Monokuma forced me to add...

And then she was gone...

Sayaka: So... Do we play it now?

Kyoko: No. We don’t. It’s obviously a motive.

Chihiro: But if what she said is true... Then it might tell us about our missing memories...

Kyoko: I know. And the games will be played.

Makoto: But didn’t you just say—

Kyoko: I said we aren’t going to play it now. It’s late. We should all go to sleep. Sayaka, please come visit me first thing next morning. I’ll need help, using that one thing you showed me.

Sayaka: Of course! I’d be glad to help.

Junko: Oooh, now that’s interesting... What sort of secrets are you girls hiding?

Syo: Is it erotic? Please tell me it’s erotic, that’d be so fun! The Doll Idol melting Ice Queen’s frozen heart... And dusting off a few cobwebs too, kyahahahahaha!

Kyoko: You will see tomorrow morning. But for now we should go to sleep.

Celeste: Agreed. Whatever it is, it can wait.

Mondo: Yeah, I’m f*ckin’ tired, man. Let’s go, bro.

Leon: Yeah, some rest sounds really nice about now.

Makoto: I think I know what the thing is, but I’ll keep it secret for you, Kyoko.

Kyoko: Thank you.

Byakuya: Well, this was a waste of time...

With that everyone started dispersing. I couldn’t not notice some longing glances thrown at the gaming cabinet as some people left. Hifumi, Chihiro, Makoto... And even I found myself staring at it a bit too long before finally heading back to my cottage. Could it contain some of memories I’m missing from before Hope’s Peak? Although filling any gap at all would be nice... I guess I’d just have to wait and see.

Ding Dong Bing Bong

Usami: Good evening, everyone! This is a school trip announcement! It is now 10 PM! Another wonderful day has come to an end! Get some good rest in preparation for cultivating tomorrow’s hope! Sleep tight, everyone!

Click!

With those thoughts, once I arrived back to the cottage, I went to sleep...

***

Usami Theatre

Remember to consider your friends’ feelings in everything that you do! After all you wouldn’t want to offend a good friend by accident. That’s a big no-no. However, this is just a little reminder before the real talk of the day!

Sometimes bad things can happen to your friends. And sometimes your friends may not even know of it! And in that case, it’s very important to not just jump to their defense behind their back!

You may think that you’re doing a good thing... But always take care, since your friend may not consider what happened that bad at all! Or they might, but they want to defend themselves instead. What if you do something even worse in the process?

It’s very important to let your friends know of anything bad before you choose to defend them. That’s the takeaway! Yes! I think... Uh... Well, that’s all I got? So be good friends, share your troubles and don’t act on someone’s behalf without their permission!

And don’t forget to brush your teeth and eat your greens!

Chapter 12: Chapter 2 – Love and Hate, Justice and Egoism, Against World's Evil! – Daily Life 3

Chapter Text

I was jogging alone yet again. I hoped Aoi would join me but it seems like she’s still not feeling up to it... Or maybe she doesn’t know I’m still doing this? I should ask her tomorrow. Too late today though, as...

Ding Dong Bing Bong!

Monokuma: Attention! This is a school trip announcement. Good morning, everyone! It is now 8 AM! Get ready for another beautiful day of this killing school trip!

Click!

Well... Time to go to the morning meeting.

***

Hotel Restaurant

Will these meetings ever be normal?

Well, this one mostly was. Kyoko was to the side, discussing something with Sayaka, Byakuya was sharing his table for once, and it was with Toko of all people and Leon and Mondo were having a laugh... But at the center of attention were a particularly loud pair. Hifumi and Taka.

Kiyotaka: This was one of the greatest nights I’ve ever experienced!

Hifumi: Oh, I’m so glad to have found capable of appreciating true art the same way.

Kiyotaka: Indeed! All art deserves recognition and appreciation in equal way. I am ashamed to have dismissed so much due to my biases!

Hifumi: Oh, don’t be so hard on yourself, Mister Ishimaru. It’s easy to dismiss the wonderful media of anime and manga as childish. What matters is you were able to look past it!

Kiyotaka: Indeed! And I am extremely grateful to you for opening my eyes, Hifumi!

I shuffled close to Celeste...

Mukuro: So, uh... What’s happening?

Celeste: From what I could gather, after yesterday’s evening debacle, Hifumi wished to help Taka’s poor mood. And then they spent nearly the whole night binging anime in Hifumi’s lab.

Mukuro: Seriously? Neither looks tired...

Celeste: Well, both are used to pulling all-nighters from what I can tell, if only for different reasons. And it appears the experience brought them close... too close even.

Aoi: Yeah... Like, not that I don’t like Hifumi, but I don’t really want Taka to start acting just like him.

Junko: Well, the dude was pushed around. Gonna need something to hold onto.

Chihiro: I think it’s nice that people are making friends like that...

Syo: Ooh, Little Loli is a geek too, right? Do you wanna join them maybe? C’mon, these groups always come in threes! Kyahahaha!

Chihiro: I’m not—I mean... Well... I’d like to, but... I don’t think they’d want to...

I couldn’t help but squint at that. I also noticed that Junko had that smug ‘I know something you don’t’ look on her face as she quickly glanced at me. Is something up with Chihiro too?

That’s when the final person to show up arrived.

Makoto: Hey, everyone... Sorry for being late. My handbook got stuck between the floorboards...

Kiyotaka: Good morning to you, Makoto! While I cannot condone your inability to arrive on time, I will show leniency, since retrieval of one’s handbook does sound like a valid reason to be late!

Hifumi: Oh, oh, Mister Ishimaru, I still want to ask... What was your favorite aspect of the show?

Kiyotaka: Well, it was fantastical indeed, but if I had to say, I can’t help but admire the level of strength the authors chose to give the Student Council! I can only wish real Student Councils had similar levels of authority... Of course, the story was quite enjoyable as well! And its ability to teach simple life lessons through such entertaining means...

Makoto: Uh... What happened to Taka?

Junko: A body has been discovered. Taka is dead, Otaka takes his place.

Aoi: Junko, don’t joke like that!

Syo: Kyahahaha! That was a good one!

Mukuro: Well, maybe it’s for the best. For him to have someone to rely on, that is.

Chihiro: Yeah... That does sound nice...

Kyoko: Everyone? Now that everyone’s here, can I have your attention?

Even Taka and Hifumi’s heated anime discussion got silenced by Kyoko.

Kyoko: I’ve decided what we’re going to do about the game.

Byakuya: You mean the motive?

Aoi: The game was made by Usami! There’s no way it could be a new motive!

Chihiro: But... she did say Monokuma put something into the game too...

Toko: P-Plus, we can’t trust that thing any m-more than the other one...

Kyoko: I agree with you, Byakuya.

Aoi: Huh?

Kyoko: I do believe the game contains the next motive. Which is exactly why we’re going to make sure everyone sees it.

Leon: Make sure?

Kyoko: Everyone who wants to be involved in the viewing of the game being played directly, please gather in the park by 10 AM today. But even if you won’t be there, we have a way to ensure that you will see the game being played.

Mondo: And who the f*ck is ‘we’ here.

Sayaka: Uhm... Yeah. I’m helping Kyoko here!

Mondo: Oh, uh... Nevermind...

Kyoko: Also... Makoto, Hifumi, Chihiro... I’ll need help from at least one of you.

Makoto: One of us?

Kyoko: Someone experienced with games.

Hifumi: I volunteer! I have played the entire series, from the great originals to the crappiest latest entry! I am practically a professional Magical Girls Unite! completionist!

Kyoko: Well, if you’re going to play the whole thing, then that works. Anyway, I’m done with the announcement.

With that, Kyoko sat back down and returned to her breakfast.

Celeste: Hm. I’m surprised nobody objected to her.

Mukuro: Huh? Why?

Celeste: Exposing a motive like that rather than avoiding it could lead to a melting pot of emotions.

Junko: But there’s no way to keep it hidden either, right? Without total guard duty of the arcade cabinet, someone will play eventually.

Celeste: I’m not saying her choice was right or wrong. I do not claim to know the correct answer either. I am simply surprised at everyone’s compliance.

Aoi: Well, Kyoko’s the leader and we have to follow her. If we can’t trust her... Then we can’t trust anyone.

Chihiro: Yeah... But I am still worried about surprises put in by Monokuma...

Hifumi: --Oh! I should totally show you the School of the Lost! That is a classic!

Celeste: Ahem... if you excuse me, I think it’s time to put an end to this.

With that, Celeste approached Hifumi...

Mukuro: What is she about to do?

Junko: Probably the same thing as yesterday morning...

Syo: Ooh, the little piggy will squeal like obedient puppy again, that was almost adorable!

Celeste: Ahem... Hifumi, would you please make me some tea?

Hifumi: Oh... Miss Ludenberg... I’m sorry, I was just explaining to Mister Ishimaru about—

Celeste: Hifumi. I didn’t ask what you were doing. I merely asked you to make me some tea.

Hifumi: R-Right! Of course, I promise to not mess up this time, Miss Ludenberg!

Kiyotaka: Hifumi, stop! Celeste, I am sorry for bluntness, but you should do that yourself.

Hifumi: Mister Ishimaru, that is alright, I am always happy to—

Kiyotaka: I will not stand for someone simply putting up with abuse! Yesterday, you completely destroyed Hifumi’s efforts!

Celeste: I have. Because he did it wrong.

Kiyotaka: Purely because you failed to instruct him on correct way!

Celeste: And now he knows, so there is no problem, no? Why are you getting in the way of this anyway?

Kiyotaka: Because... I will not let my friend be bullied by a spoiled brat!

Celeste: What.

Hifumi: Mister Ishimaru... You...

Suddenly, Celeste grabbed Taka by the collar, pulling him close, almost lifting him up... That was surprising.

Celeste: Just who the hell do you think you are, you worm?!

Kiyotaka: Gh—Celeste?!

Celeste: What do you know about being spoiled, little Mister Pretend-Perfection? You lived out your perfect life of perfect student, in center of attention of every teacher and adult, didn’t you? Well, guess what. You’re the only spoiled brat in here!

With that Celeste shoved... And Taka went tumbling down on the floor, knocking the plate off the table... and onto himself. His normally pristine uniform now covered in spaghetti...

Celeste seemed to forget about him immediately, turning back to Hifumi, her expression going back to her normal mask of a smile.

Celeste: Now. Hifumi... My tea, please?

Hifumi: I... I’m sorry, but you will have to do it yourself. I have to help Mister Ishimaru...

With that Hifumi stood up and rushed over, helping the still-dumbfounded Taka stand up...

Celeste seemed completely frozen for a bit... Before simply announcing to no one in particular...

Celeste: Well. This was an enlightening meeting. I shall see you at our next gathering later on.

And she left... Quickly followed by Hifumi leading Taka away, probably to get cleaned up...

I’m pretty sure I heard Mondo and Leon just barely suppressing laughter.

Junko: Well, that was unnecessarily intense.

Mukuro: ...hopefully this won’t keep escalating further.

Beyond that, the breakfast was rather quiet... Thankfully.

***

Jabberwock Park

I arrived to the park at the time given by Kyoko. It seems everyone else has gathered as well, except Byakuya, Toko and Celeste... Although the park itself changed a little. The arcade game and the stage were still there, but now there also were chairs on the sides of arcade cabinet, fourteen in total, plus one directly in front. Arcade cabinet itself had some sort of... camera holder affixed to the top now as well?

I took a sit among everyone else who has gathered. It seems only Kyoko and Sayaka were still not seated, Hifumi having taken the seat by the cabinet.

Sayaka: It looks like Byakuya and Toko didn’t come...

Mondo: That’s to be expected at this f*ckin’ point.

Syo: Oh no... Are they on a secret date?!

Junko: I mean, one of them probably thinks so at least.

Chihiro: But Celeste didn’t come either...

Aoi: Maybe it’s for the best... I’ve seen enough fighting today.

Leon: Yeah. Let’s just get going already.

Kyoko: Fine. Sayaka, if you please?

Sayaka nodded and tapped something on her handbook. Then suddenly...

Ding Dong Bing Bong!

I looked to the side... And there she was. Sayaka. On the monitor. Comparing real Sayaka and monitor’s perspective, it seems like her handbook actually had a frontal camera?

Sayaka: Uhm... Hi! Yes, this is my perk. It’s called Cheering Crowd and I can simply access the broadcast system to make announcements or just broadcast things. That’s how we’re going to make sure everyone sees the motive!

With that, she moved, affixing her handbook to the camera holder... The monitors now broadcasted the game screen, if at a slight angle. Huh...

Mondo: Wait, seriously? So we can actually just be anywhere and still watch it?

Kyoko: Yes. However, if you want to participate in discussion of what’s happening...

Leon: Hey, let’s go hang at the beach!

Mondo: Hell yeah!

Makoto: Wait, but you’ll miss the game!

Leon: Didn’t you heat what they just said? We can just listen and see it from literally anywhere on the island.

Mondo: Yeah, the f*ckin’ monitors are all over the place. Plus, I’d rather be somewhere actually fun than watching some stupid game being played anyway.

Kiyotaka: I have no objections to size of audience being reduced!

Leon: Nobody asked you!

With that, those two left as well. Kyoko sighed.

Kyoko: Anything else before we begin?

There were no objections, so Kyoko took a seat. She took out a notebook and pen, and seemingly so did Hifumi...

Kyoko: Hifumi. What’s that for? I told you I’ll be noting down anything that might be relevant.

Hifumi: Oh, Miss Kirigiri, it’s not for that. It’s for hunting secrets and backtracking! You’d be surprised how many hidden things these games had!

Kyoko: I see... Carry on then. I presume there will be a lot to go through.

With that Hifumi finally pressed the start button. And what greeted us was... the difficulty choice selection. Featuring three girls... Black Magical Girl, Yellow Magical Girl and White Magical Girl? Appropriately dressed, there were three girls to choose from, ranked by difficulty. Each also had a subtitle. Story of Loyalty, Story of Fun, Story of Justice...

Hifumi: The characters in the original series never had names. This was such an endearing thing!

First thing Hifumi did was pick the third, seemingly most difficult one, with chain as weapon of choice... huh.

What followed for next few hours was Hifumi playing the game itself... I don’t really get games, but from what I could gather most of time was spent in some ‘magical worlds’ where the main characters and her allies, magical girls from other difficulties as well as two more, Blue and Purple one, were fighting evil magics invading their home. And inbetween, there were segments of them simply attending school and interacting with classmates. Notably there were no names for any character at all, all described after their position or physical appearance. Kyoko was seemingly making some connections though.

White Magical Girl’s story seemed to be about finding the root of evil, while at day being close friends with adults of the school, mature and leader of the team. In the end, school’s headmaster was revealed to have been corrupted by evil and was the final enemy of the final level, and purified by the end of it. Once Hifumi was done with that, Kyoko started speaking.

Kyoko: It really does appear that this game is caricature of Hope’s Peak...

Aoi: I think that one girl character that was all big and bulky was meant to be Sakura...

Kyoko: I think so as well. From the ‘daytime’ segments I think I can connect most characters to ourselves already.

Sayaka: Really? It kind of went over my head.

Makoto: Go ahead, Kyoko.

Hifumi: The camera is listening so everyone else will know too.

Kyoko: Indeed. So, for starters... The five magical girls. Blue one appears to be Sayaka, also being a singer. Purple one seems to be Toko, a melancholic loner...

Syo: An understatement of millennia!

Kyoko: Black one is Mukuro. Quiet but otherwise friendly. Yellow one is Junko, hyperactive and... jolly.

Junko: ‘Jolly’. You just hate saying word ‘fun’, don’t you?

Kyoko: And White one is... myself.

Makoto: Is there anything that could tell us Mukuro’s talent then?

Kyoko: No. Unless her using guns as magical girl weapon may be connected...

Hifumi: I doubt it. It’s normal in the genre to mix medieval and modern weapons nowadays! The variety is wonderful though. Guns for Miss Ikusaba, battleaxe for Miss Enoshima, dual blades for Miss f*ckawa...

Kyoko: Back to the topic. I also think I identified most NPCs, including my father. There is however one issue I can see...

Kiyotaka: What sort of issue?

Kyoko: The class features eight girls and eight boys. But...

Kiyotaka: That can’t be right! Out group had seven boys and nine girls!

Syo: Hey, what am I, a wet rag?

Hifumi: Well, you would count as part of Miss f*ckawa, Miss Genocider...

Syo: Oh, I guess that makes sense. Doesn’t mean I have to like it!

Kyoko: Indeed. And the one member of the class I couldn’t quite match because of it is—

Chihiro: It’s me. I’m sorry...

Syo: Whaaaaat?!

Aoi: Chihiro? What are you talking about?

Hifumi: Don’t tell me--! Miss Fujisaki is actually a traitor infiltrating our group, replacing one of original members?!

Junko: Ugh... No. It’s far simpler than that.

Kyoko: I didn’t want to put you on the spot like that. However, it is something you’d need to address sooner than later.

Chihiro: I’m... I’m sorry for lying to all of you but... I’m not... actually a girl... All this time I’ve... been lying... I’m actually a boy...

I can see tears already welling up on her—Crap, his face... Sayaka immediately stood up and rushed to give him a hug...

Sayaka: Hey, please don’t cry... It’s okay...

Kiyotaka: What... But... why?!

Aoi: Taka!

Kiyotaka: I just... don’t understand! It’s a perfectly reasonable question! Why would you hide your gender?

Hifumi: Oh, Mister Fujisaki...

Syo: Oh my god. That’s so hot!

Junko: Jeez could we not have left this one behind? Like locked in her cottage?

Chihiro: I just... am so weak... and useless... Nobody would... want a guy like me... Everybody always... made fun of it... So I thought that if everybody thought that I... wasn’t a guy... it’d go away, but... I’m still weak and useless... and a liar as well... Awful liar who can’t do anything...

Sayaka: Shh... It’s okay... It’s okay, Chihiro. We won’t judge you if you aren’t strong. Even if you are a guy.

Junko: Yeah! Relax, just look at Makoto. Nobody hates him.

Makoto: Hey... I know I’m not that strong but still...

Mukuro: It’s fine, Chihiro. I’m sure nobody here will judge you for just... not being a strong guy. It doesn’t really matter much anyway.

Kyoko: I’m sorry for forcing the issue.

Chihiro: No... it’s fine, Kyoko... you did what you... sniff... had to... I just... You guys are... so nice... I can’t... I’m so, so sorry... for all the lying...

Aoi: It’s okay, Chihiro! You don’t have to feel guilty or bad anymore. And if somebody here does try to bully you again... Well, I’ll beat them up!

Mukuro: Count me in.

Kiyotaka: Violence is not appreciated in school environment... But I cannot deny that bullying deserves proper punishments!

Hifumi: Indeed!

Junko: Hey, I’m always down to beat up people who deserve it!

Kyoko: If someone threatens you, you can always talk to me. I may not have wanted the role of a leader, but I’ll make sure it gets used properly.

Syo: Such a cutie little patootie.... How dare someone put down a boy like that! I’ll stab them so hard! So hard! Kyahahaha!

Sayaka: See? Nobody here thinks it’s wrong. So please, don’t cry...

Chihiro: I’m... still sorry... I’m still so weak... And I want to get... stronger too... To help you... To help everyone...

Update! Earned Chihiro’s 2nd Hope Fragment.

Aoi: Well... you could work out with us!

Junko: Yeah! The Sports Center. It had all equipment and such. Pretty fun time waster.

Aoi: We could... Hey, we could have a group workout there! Me, you, Junko... Who else?

Mukuro: I’ll see about it.

Kyoko: I’ll join you.

Syo: Blegh. I hate workouts, but I’ll have no choice since the White Magical Girl has got me on the leash.

Kyoko: Don’t call me that.

Aoi: Tomorrow morning! How does that sound?

Chihiro: Hina... you... Thank youu...

As Chihiro said that, Hina hugged both Sayaka and Chihiro... And then Junko grabbed me and forced both of us to join too...

Junko: Hug pile! Yeah!

I think Syo joined too at some point as I felt her slobbering on my shoulder... After a few moments the Big Chihiro Hug dissipated. Chihiro’s face was still red, but not crying anymore at least.

Chihiro: I... that does sound nice...

Sayaka: Oh... I would love to join too, but I have made plans for tomorrow already, with Leon and Makoto.

Makoto: Yeah, that private beach hangout does sound nice.

Sayaka: Thanks, but that’s just how I’m used to inviting people.

Makoto: Huh? How’d you guess that I was about to ask about those invitations?

Sayaka: Like I said, I’m psychic.

That caused everyone to laugh... Well, at least sad mood dissipated for now. Although I’d have to wonder how the rest of the people who just heard it all would react...

Hifumi: Uhm... Not to distract from the moment, but it appears the prize for clearing the route has been dispensed.

Indeed, on the bottom part of machine, one of three receptacles was open, the rightmost one. And inside was a single... DVD case?

Kyoko came over and grabbed it.

Kyoko: I will check over the prizes first and then have them available to everyone. For now let’s just get the game over with.

The next several hours were spent with us just watching Hifumi playing through the game as the other two routes.

Junko’s Yellow Magical Girl seemed to be about mostly bringing laughter and fun to everyone around, although often at expense of creating chaos in the wake. Generally, her route was simpler than Kyoko’s, which makes sense as it was a medium difficulty one. Her final boss was extremely obvious caricature of Celeste, corrupted to be a giant doll that would swap out extremely fake looking masks as expressions... It was a bit funny, but also rather rude to Celeste herself. The prize for this route turned out to be a file containing what seemed to be freshly printed photos... Kyoko took them as well.

Finally, my route... Seemed to be most generic. It was just a new girl struggling to fit in and adjust to new life in high school and being new to being a magical girl too. No hints of talent anywhere, nothing special, just befriending classmates as such... Final boss was even something called a Faceless Swarm. A bunch of grey vaguely humanoid blobs all attacking at same time. Kyoko couldn’t find any symbolism either. The final prize was... Another file, but that one seemed to just have a piece of paper. Kyoko pocketed it.

And with that the game was complete. Kyoko made another readout of her notes, connecting all NPCs to characters, this time with Chihiro included, noting down relationships (Sakura and Aoi were besties, and Kiyotaka and Mondo were being friends as well, though that part was probably being made up by Usami) and minor peculiarities... In the end, nothing really worth murdering over except for, maybe, prizes, but Kyoko had them all now.

Kyoko: I’ll take a look over the prizes and announce the contents in tomorrow’s morning meeting. Thanks everyone for the help... But I think that this motive is done with.

Hifumi: Uhm... Miss Kirigiri? Is it alright if I keep playing?

Junko: Seriously? We got all the prizes already, what else is there?

Hifumi: Yes, but I didn’t get all the collectibles! And this game made me feel such wonderful nostalgia for the old Magical Girls Unite!

Kyoko: Fine. It doesn’t matter anymore, so feel free.

Hifumi: Thank you very much!

Sayaka: Okay, I’m turning off the broadcast now... Sorry to anyone who’s been distracted by it!

With that, Sayaka took down her handbook from the stand and turned it off. The broadcast on the monitor turned off at the same time with a familiar click.

Syo: Finally, I can stretch my body! So, Miss Cold Shoulder, what next? I want to do something active!

Kyoko: Let’s go.

Kiyotaka: I shall escort Chihiro to his cottage to prevent any possible bullying along the way!

Chihiro: Ah... Thank you, Taka...

Mukuro: I think I’ll head to the cottages as well.

With that everyone dissipated. The three of us however left towards the hotel to go back to the dedicated cottages.

***

Hotel Grounds

Kiyotaka: Who... Who would do such a thing?!

As we arrived one certain cottage changed a little... Taka’s cottage had several tomatoes and eggs staining walls and windows... a roll of toilet paper on the roof... And on the door in giant black letters, there were two words spray-painted. “Useless Loser”.

Chihiro: Oh no... Taka....

Leon: God, that’s hilarious isn’t it?

Leon came out of his cottage, grinning with mild amusem*nt.

Kiyotaka: So, you are the one behind this vandalism?!

Leon: Nope. I found it like that already when me and Mondo were back from the beach. Totally.

Kiyotaka: You two were together in on this?! You.... You--!

Leon: Dude, are you even listening? We were just hanging out, we didn’t do this.

Kiyotaka: Nobody else is petty enough of a delinquent for something like that! That’s it... I did not want to use it, but it appears that circ*mstance leave me with no other choice. I invoke my perk!

Suddenly Taka took out his handbook and started furiously inputting something... And as soon as he finished...

Ding Dong Bing Bong!

Monokuma: Uh-oh! Looks like the Rules and Discipline perk has been invoked! A new rule has been added to all your handbooks! It will become active in exactly 1 hour. Remember, punishment for breaking it will be no different from one for other rules!

Mukuro: Huh...?

Chihiro: Taka... Why?

Leon: Seriously? The hell’s your problem, man?!

I took out my handbook. Of course... First the Usami rules, then Monokuma rules... But at the very end there was now an extra rule, past even the ‘extra rules may be added’ rule, accompanied by cartoony picture of Taka...

Rules and Discipline Perk Rule

Damaging or destroying property of other students without their consent is expressly prohibited.

Kiyotaka: If neither my words, nor my example can change your behavior, then I will have to use whatever means I have at my disposal instead!

Leon: I f*ckin’ told you, I haven’t egged your stupid cottage! Neither did Mondo!

Kiyotaka: Your lies do not convince me. I will maintain this rule in place until I can see actual improvement in your act!

Leon: Screw you!

With that Leon took a moment before spitting right at Taka’s uniform and walking back to his cottage, muttering swears. Taka was perfectly still, and yet looked like he was shaking...

Kiyotaka: A second uniform today. Doesn’t matter! Once an hour passes, he will not be able to do such delinquent acts anymore! I need to get changed. And clean my cottage. Excuse me!

And so, he marched on towards his own cottage, expression frozen in sternness...

Mukuro: Damn...

Chihiro: Poor Taka... Do you really think Leon and Mondo vandalized his cottage?

Mukuro: No clue. On one hand, they may have... But on the other. That seems a bit too petty.

Chihiro: I just hope Hifumi can help him find his footing again...

Mukuro: Yeah. Same...

Without much else to do we split up. Chihiro went towards his cottage... I guess it makes sense why it’s on boys’ side now. And I went to my own.

***

Mukuro’s Cottage

Rest of day was uneventful. At some point I heard what appeared to be another argument outside, between Taka and Kyoko... It seems she wasn’t particularly fond of his way of enforcing order either. But she seemed more concerned about Taka not consulting her first, than the rule being put in at all. Either way that one didn’t go anywhere and beyond that... I just kept reading my manga. It was a great way to pass time.

Ding Dong Bing Bong!

Monokuma: Attention! This is a school trip announcement. Good evening, everyone! It is now 10 PM! Nighttime has officially come, so go and get some sleep to be energetic for tomorrow’s murderous plans! Sleep well!

Click!

Well... I guess it’s time to sleep. I put away the manga, undressed and went to sleep.

***

Someone was outside.

It’s the middle of the night but some light move outside. It was split second but it interrupted my sleep and woke me up... Whatever it was... I had to find out who would be out this late at night. I dressed in matter of seconds and headed outside...

***

Jabberwock Park

I couldn’t find whatever was the source of light outside the cottage... or even in the streets. Following a simple hunch however, I walked the roads until I reached the Central Island and the park... and as I arrived, I saw it... It...

It was floating above ground. A creature I could barely make out in the dark, with moon obstructed by clouds... But silhouette was almost human... And yet not... There was something so repulsive and grotesque about it even when I couldn’t make out a single feature... It was there, in the middle of the park... And arcade cabinet was now torn in half, one half embedded in the back wall of stage, the other simply flattened on the ground beyond repair.

Then the thing looked at me. I remember seeing an eye glinting for a moment in the dark. It was completely red as blood. I thought I was stoic and could handle anything. But something about that look... It was wrong. And it was... f a m i l i a r...

I screamed in pure terror... And then everything was dark...

***

Mukuro’s Cottage

Junko: Wake the hell up!

Toko: D-Do you want to choke her or something?

Mondo: Yeah, ease up on her.

Mukuro: Ugh... what...?

I blinked my eyes open. I was back in my cottage... Lights were on. And literally everyone else was standing inside, Junko having been shaking me awake by the neck...

Aoi: She’s alright!

Byakuya: Of course she is. She was found unharmed after all.

Makoto: Can anyone even explain what happened? I kind of missed it while I was getting dressed.

Kyoko: It appears for some reason Mukuro went out at night. Junko followed her, then heard a scream... And then found Mukuro passed out in the park. The game cabinet was completely destroyed as well. Junko dragged her back and woke everyone up.

Hifumi: Miss Ikusaba! How could you?! The singular-edition of new Magical Girls Unite!

Kyoko: Don’t jump to conclusions. Mukuro... What happened?

Mukuro: I... it wasn’t me! I saw something... Like, a glint of something outside. So I wanted to follow it but I lost trace until the Park. And it was... there. It was a monster...

Sayaka: A m-monster?

Celeste: That sounds like a badly written horror story.

Mukuro: It’s true! I swear! It was... floating and I couldn’t make out the features, but... It was... terrifying...

Byakuya: Seriously? You couldn’t make out the features but were scared anyway? And here I took you for one of the smarter ones.

Mondo: You wanna f*cking go?!

Kyoko: Stop.

Kiyotaka: Indeed. Jumping to violence is beneath a real man.

Kyoko: You stop too. Ugh...

Aoi: What... if monster’s real?

Leon: No way! No way there’s a monster on the island! Monokuma wouldn’t do that, would he?

Syo: Hey! I didn’t approve of any competition in most terrifying thing on the island category!

Hifumi: I agree! I think one horrible creature is enough monsters for us...

Chihiro: Maybe it was just a dream?

Junko: Hey, actually, are you sure you saw it? Pretty sure I saw that light myself, but I just was about to go back to sleep instead.

Toko: C-Can we just go to beds? This is s-stupid!

Sayaka: But what if monster’s real...?

Celeste: Please.

Kyoko: I agree. We should get back to sleep. Whatever it was Mukuro saw, it’s gone now. Nobody else saw it, not even Junko.

Chihiro: I hope so too...

Kiyotaka: Everyone! Get back to your cottages and get some proper rest!

Mondo: Psht.

Byakuya: I can’t believe I bothered waking up for this.

With that everyone left my cottage... Except Junko.

Junko: Don’t you dare do that again!

Mukuro: Huh? Do what?

Junko: Sneak out at night alone. You could have gotten me to go with you, you know. Instead I had to sneak after you and find you there just... laying. After screaming like that. What the hell caused you to scream like that?!

Mukuro: I...

I tried to think of it. Of what that thing... Made me feel from just looking at it...

Mukuro: I just felt so... Desperate...

Junko: ...fine. Thanks for ruining my beauty sleep. If I’m late tomorrow morning, it’s your fault!

And so Junko left too, shutting lights off on the way out... Leaving me alone again. I went to sleep. I had no dreams or nightmares. I also wasn’t disturbed anymore... But what I saw that night remained ingrained somewhere in the back of my head...

***

Monokuma Theater

What makes us afraid? What makes us feel terror, chilling us to the bone?

...

...

...

You know the answer for yourself already. It doesn’t matter what I say now. I can’t change anyone’s mind on this. Fears are different for everyone...

...

...

...

Think about it. About your deepest fear. About your most primal horror. What causes you to always shudder...

...

...

...

Are you sure you’re safe from it?

...

...

Are you sure it’s not looming over you right now?

...

...

Puhuhu... Sweet dreams...

Chapter 13: Chapter 2 – Love and Hate, Justice and Egoism, Against World's Evil! – Daily Life 4

Chapter Text

Ding Dong Bing Bong!

Usami: Hello, everyone! This is a school trip announcement! It is now 8 AM! Another wonderful morning in tropical paradise! Time to wake up and be ready to cultivate wonderful hope!

Click!

Damn... I think this is the first time since coming here that I slept in late enough to wake up to announcement as my alarm. Last night... I don’t even want to think about it. I just need to get to the morning meeting for now.

***

Hotel Restaurant

And I’m last one to arrive... I’m also getting few rather weird stares, but I just ignore them as I sit down. And once I do, Kyoko stands up, taking her ‘making an announcement’ tone.

Kyoko: I reviewed all the prizes from the game.

Leon: So? What is it?

Toko: It b-better be something important... If s-so much fuss was made about the s-stupid game being destroyed...

Hifumi: That game was extremely important already!

Kyoko: The first prize was for my route. I will be keeping it to myself, but if anyone wants to watch it, I can show. However, I do advice against it...

Kyoko demonstrated the DVD.

Kyoko: It only contains a single video recording... of my father’s death.

Aoi: Oh no...

Sayaka: That’s so terrible!

Makoto: Wait, does that mean that the real Headmaster is dead?

Kyoko: I can’t tell if it’s real or fake... But it appears he was killed in an exaggerated execution, similar to one Sakura faced.

Celeste: Then... It is reasonable to assume that the culprit behind this Killing Game and behind that recording is one and the same?

Kyoko: Indeed. But I understand if some of you may not wish to see something like that. So I will not force you to.

Sayaka: Thank you, Kyoko... I don’t think I want to see another execution like that ever again.

Aoi: Agreed...

Byakuya: And what if she’s lying about the video?

Kiyotaka: What are you saying?! Class President would never lie!

Byakuya: Well, if you’re so inviting, then I shall be seeing so for myself.

Kyoko: That’s fine. You can come by my cottage in the afternoon. In the morning, however, we already made plans.

Byakuya: Hmph.

Kyoko: Moving on. The second prize was for Junko’s route... And it had two photos. I can guess as to what they are hinting at, but I do think you’d prefer to explain it yourself.

Kyoko took out a familiar file and demonstrated two photos.

One was of... Just Junko, smiling at the camera. And the other was of very familiar-looking girl, smiling at the camera in almost the same way... She had long, straight red hair... But something about her was just so similar to Junko... Wait. It was Junko! In a wig! And wearing normal clothes...

Junko: Wait. Seriously? That’s supposed to be a motive?

Makoto: I don’t understand... Who is that other girl?

Aoi: She kinda looks like Junko...

Junko: Duh. Because that’s me.

Mondo: What? Seriously? No way...

Junko: Well, it’s easy to confuse. Ryoko is my disguise after all.

Leon: Ryoko?

Junko: Yep! You know, I like to get away from all the stupid fashion and paparazzi and stuff. So I made up this persona of Ryoko Otonashi, forgetful ditz of a girl, got myself a wig, some makeup, contacts... And viola. I can be an entirely different person on moment’s notice, plain and unnoticeable.

Kyoko: I see. My conclusion was about the same. Perhaps this was meant to be some sort of blackmail?

Junko: I doubt it? Like, it’s annoying that if it got leaked I’d need to come up with something else, but also, like, whatever.

Syo: Do I smell something salty?

Junko: Ugh...

Kyoko: Regardless... Last one is Mukuro’s route reward. It appears to be an internal letter between Hope’s Peak staff. You can have it.

Kyoko handed me the letter and I skimmed through it...

“I’ll admit, Jin, I did not expect that invitation all the way to the Middle East would be successful, much less to someone of her talent. I’m uncertain as to how well she’ll adjust to being back to normal school life here in Japan, but I’ll give you this, I was wrong about her ignoring our invitation. Still, Mukuro Ikusaba’s proposed talent... Are you certain this is a good idea? We’re already on rather shaky ground with the Reserve Course about to open year after this. PR risks should be taken into account when admitting students.

Also, I’ll leave the beer crate I owe you by your parking spot. Don’t forget to share!

- Koichi”

Mukuro: That’s...

Kyoko: It appears to be a letter to my father from some other staff member. It mentions Mukuro being in Middle East prior to coming to Hope’s Peak, as well as her talent being something that could cause some PR concerns for the school.

Mondo: sh*t, they invited me! What sort of f*ckin’ talent could be a bigger PR concern than that?

Kyoko: That is something I wonder myself.

Junko: Middle East... hmmm...

Kyoko: Mukuro? Do you remember anything?

Mukuro: I...

Blank.

Mukuro: No. I’m sorry. This letter doesn’t... feel wrong, but I still can’t remember a thing.

Syo: Oh, so deepens the mysterious mystery of our most mysterious girl! What dark secrets might she hide, they all pondered...

Mukuro: I really don’t remember, okay!

Leon: Hey, calm down. Don’t let the psycho get the rise out of you.

Syo: Kyahahahaha!

Kyoko: That’s fine, Mukuro. Either way, we have our plans for the day.

Aoi: Yeah! Chihiro’s coming with us to exercise!

Mondo: ...

Well, he’s looking... annoyed for some reason.

Byakuya: I still can’t believe you hid it.

Toko: B-But... if he’s a guy... Then why is he still w-wearing a skirt?!

Chihiro: Oh... I just had no other clothes in my cottage... And getting other ones would take a while, when I just wanted to rest yesterday... Is it that bad for me to still wear it... even after you know?

Aoi: Of course not!

Syo: It makes you even more killable if anything!

Chihiro: Uh... Thanks...?

Makoto: Oh, Sayaka, regarding your invite...

Sayaka: Oh, it’s alright if you’ve lost it. You know when and where still and that’s what matters!

Leon: Huh? He lost it? Dude...

Makoto: Yeah... You’re really good at reading me, huh...

Sayaka: Nope, I’m just psychic...

As that conversation trailed off into laughter, I was approached by someone unexpected.

Celeste: Good morning, Mukuro. I hope you are faring well.

Mukuro: Hey, Celeste. Something up?

Celeste: I simply wished to suggest we spend time together today. Play a game of wit and smarts, and perhaps get to know each other better. How does your cottage at 9 AM sound?

Mukuro: Uh... Sure? I guess that works.

Celeste: Then, we shall meet then.

Mukuro: Why are you even asking?

Celeste: Because it’d be a shame if I came to your cottage and you won’t be there, no? That and showing up uninvited is rather rude, wouldn’t you agree?

Mukuro: I guess that’s true...

Celeste: Indeed, it is. Till our meeting, then.

With that she went to sit down alone. Rest of breakfast went by more uneventful. Taka shared more of his newfound experiences with anime to Hifumi, although the two seemed to have different plans for today, Sayaka, Makoto and Leon were all laughing together about their beach trip, Aoi and Junko were cheering up Chihiro... This was rather nice. And it seems like rewards weren’t really motive enough for anyone after all.

Eventually everyone had their fill and started leaving, me included. I went directly to my cottage.

***

Mukuro’s Cottage

Celeste was rather punctual. She arrived carrying a bag and after I welcomed her in, took out the game she had in mind...

Mukuro: Chess...?

Celeste: Indeed. You sound surprised.

Mukuro: I just thought that as a gambler, you’d prefer a more... Luck-based game.

Celeste: Gambling is not all about luck either, you know. It’s about intelligence, and fooling your opponents.

Mukuro: That makes sense, just... didn’t expect that to be the first game you wanted play.

Celeste: Well, I have brought cards as well, just in case you’d want something else.

Mukuro: No, it’s fine. Let’s do it. I’m down.

Celeste: That is nice.

Celeste set the chessboard up and arranged the pieces... The game started out normally, although I could see that either she wasn’t that experienced or was intentionally going for most predictable and simple moves...

I quickly managed to get a bit of pawn advantage... She... really wasn’t winning at all. Playing defensively in her position was inviting me to just press the advantage and I did. Soon, after a few advantageous trades, I was one piece and three pawns up...

Celeste: Hm... I appear to be a bit parched. Do you have any water?

Mukuro: Hm? Not tea?

Celeste: Please. One does not drink tea for hydration, but for the taste and experience...

Mukuro: I don’t. Do you want me to grab some?

Celeste: I’d appreciate it a lot.

That smile... She’s probably planning to adjust board position while I’m gone. Heh... Well, I remembered the positions of all the pieces perfectly before I left the cottage... I only took a few minutes to grab a bottle from the restaurant, giving Mondo a quick wave on the way, and bring it back.

To my surprise, board was in the exact same state... I was certain of that. And Celeste was just sitting there, smiling with her usual fake-looking pleasant smile as I handed her the bottle.

Celeste: Thanks a lot, Mukuro. Now, shall we continue the game?

I achieved checkmate in 12 turns. Well, that was underwhelming...

Celeste: It appears I was bested.

Mukuro: That’s... kind of why I expected a different game. Something more up your alley.

Celeste: And what do you think would be more ‘up my alley’?

Mukuro: Poker? Blackjack? I guess?

Celeste: Well, chess is a game of bluffs and deception too. Is it not?

Mukuro: Kind of, but you also lost.

Celeste: I lost this game. But, I have learned a lot and avoided letting you learn anything about myself. We’ll have many an opportunity to play more games, and as long as I can best you in the long term, would that not be the real victory?

Mukuro: I suppose it makes sense, but I’ll need to see whether you can actually apply anything or if you’re bluffing right now.

Celeste: There’s no need for underestimations, Mukuro. I always put exactly as much info on the table as I have to, and not a bit more.

Mukuro: I see. Well, that makes sense. I suppose, I can only hope the next game I’ll actually be able to see some of the secrets you’re hiding...

Celeste: Perhaps if situation pushes for it, you shall. Either way, I appreciate you humoring me. This was highly enlightening and entertaining. I will be taking my leave now.

With that Celeste put away the pieces, and put her board back into her bag before leaving. Well, I guess that’s that then...

Update! Earned Celeste’s 3rd Hope Fragment.

***

Hotel Restaurant

After a while of reading manga, I decided to grab a little snack. Mondo was still there in the Restaurant, fiddling with his handbook.

Mukuro: Hey, Mondo. Sup?

Mondo: Oh... Nothing, just, uh, sh*t... Messing with that uptight asshole a bit.

Mukuro: Messing with... Taka?

Mondo: Yeah. The idiot put in an extra f*cking rule! Have you seen it?

Mukuro: I did. But I don’t think it was wrong, considering his cottage was kind of messed up.

Mondo: Well we didn’t do it, so why the hell were we blamed?! Nobody here likes him that much except for fat nerd anyway, it could’ve been f*cking anyone.

Mukuro: Maybe because you keep butting heads so much? Just give him some room, I’m pretty sure he’ll let up, especially now that he’s got more distractions.

Mondo: Damn... Fine, whatever, won’t do it after this time anymore.

Mukuro: Wait, if you weren’t vandalizing the cottage, then what is ‘this time’?

Mondo: Uh... sh*t... Forget about it, okay? Just... I won’t mess with the guy afterwards.

Mukuro: ...sure.

Seeing that I can’t get more out of him without just making him mad I decided to let it go for now.

***

Supermarket

After eating a few fruits for a snack and taking another break I decided that it’s finally time. It’s probably going to be infuriating, but... Well. I had to at some point one way or another. He was at the supermarket when I found him.

Mukuro: Hey, Byakuya!

Byakuya: Hm? What do you want?

Mukuro: To talk to you.

Byakuya: How quaint. And do I have a reason to respond?

Mukuro: Gh... Fine, I want your help.

Byakuya: Really now? Well, I suppose if you have something to offer in return—

Ding Dong Bing Bong

Huh...?

Usami: I’m... So, so sorry everyone, but... It happened again!

Monokuma: Just get to the point!

Usami: A... a body has been discovered... Everyone, please gather at the Library...

Monokuma: Aaaand?

Usami: After a certain amount of time passes... A class trial will begin...

Monokuma: Good girl! Eugh, I can’t believe I’m saying this...

Click!

Byakuya: Well now.

I needed to get to library quick... I grabbed Byakuya by the wrist, and ignoring his protests and stumbling started sprinting right for the library...

***

Library

Still dragging Byakuya behind me, I rushed past Toko, who was shaking right outside and refusing to come in, and entered. Inside a giant mess presented itself. Glorious fountain in the middle of the atrium was crushed to pieces by the huge chandelier having fallen down, water leaking all over the floor... And in the midst of all that mess was laying a crushed body of someone who could only be Hifumi Yamada, the Ultimate Fanfic Creator... His blood leaking all over, mixing with spilling water...

Kiyotaka: Let go of me! Let go!

Leon: C’mon man, you’ll mess up the crime scene!

Mondo: Get a f*cking hold of yourself!

Aoi: Hifumi... he’s really dead...

Kiyotaka: No! That can’t be! Hifumi!!!

Kiyotaka: Graaaahhh!

Chapter 2 – Love and Justice, Hatred and Egoism, Against World’s Evil! – Deadly Life

Chapter 14: Chapter 2 – Love and Hate, Justice and Egoism, Against World's Evil! – Deadly Life

Chapter Text

Chapter 2 – Love and Justice, Hatred and Egoism, Against World’s Evil! – Deadly Life

Hifumi’s body is a mess... If not for his rotund frame and clothes, from this far, it’d be impossible to tell who it was... The crushing did not spare him at all. How... And more importantly, why?

Kiyotaka: Hifumi! Hifumi!!!

Kyoko: You two. Take him outside. Dunk him into the ocean. Something. Get him out of here and calm.

Mondo: Yes, ma’am...

Kyoko was being more authoritative than usual... I guess that makes sense, but her tone was harsh enough to make even Mondo straighten out. Either way, Leon and Mondo drag Taka out of the Library...

Aoi: No... again... it can’t have... happened again... Somebody’s dead again...

Byakuya: Was a matter of time, really.

Aoi: What are you saying?! Stop that!

Syo: Oh no! Doesn’t this whole ‘found the body’ thing mean we’re in trouble now?!

Celeste: Indeed. We will have to investigate, find the culprit and bring them to justice. Simple as that.

Sayaka: Wait... Maybe it won’t happen like that? Maybe it was just an accident?

Junko: An accident?

Makoto: Hifumi was... crushed by a chandelier, right? If it snapped on its own...

Usami: I’m sorry...

Makoto: Agh!

Usami: Oh no! I scared you, Makoto! I didn’t mean to.

Chihiro: Usami... what were you going to say?

Usami: Well, you see... the only way a death can happen on the island without a trial... Is dying due to sickness and things like that...

Byakuya: Which means this ‘accident’ has someone to blame behind it...

Makoto: Can’t you tell us who it is?!

Usami: I’m sorry... That’s not... I can’t do that... The best I can do is... give you all this...

Usami took out familiar-looking tablets. Monokuma Files...

Kyoko: Damn it... The motive was supposed to have been negated... why...

Aoi: But how? How could an accident like that even happen intentionally?

Usami: I... can’t tell you anything... I’m sorry... But I’m sure that if you work together, like good friends you are... You will find all the answers! Yay...?

Byakuya: Just get out.

Usami: Uwah...

And so she’s gone... With us holding the files.

Byakuya: Well then, the game is afoot. Good luck. You’ll need it to solve this with your intelligence.

And so he left...

Aoi: This is so horrible...

Junko: Well, let’s get to it.

Sayaka: You say that so easily...

Junko: What else is there to do, stand around and hoping it will solve itself? That’s not how things work. We have to get to it.

Mukuro: Junko’s right. We have to find the one responsible for Hifumi’s death...

Aoi: I guess you’re right...

Syo: Kyahahahaha! That’s like, the opposite of killing someone! I totally want to try!

That’s when Mondo came back, grumbling and holding a Monokuma File of his own.

Mondo: The hall monitor nerd’s fine. We threw him in the ocean at Chandler Beach. Leon’s making sure he isn’t doing something f*cking stupid. At least there’s beach so close by...

Aoi: It’s good to know that Taka’s fine...

Kyoko: ...let’s just get to it.

Investigation Start

I started with the obvious. The Monokuma File.

“The victim was Hifumi Yamada, the Ultimate Fanfic Creator.

The victim’s body was discovered in the Chandler Library at 11:44 AM.

The victim died from his whole body being crushed with a huge object. Death was instantaneous. Time of death was 11:27.

No drugs or poison were found in victim’s bloodstream.”

Truth Bullet Added: Monokuma File 2

Mukuro: Huh... That was surprisingly recent... It’s just minutes till noon right now...

Mondo: Damn it...

Syo: Hey, the body’s not warm anymore!

Kyoko: Hey, don’t touch it! It’s due to all the spilling fountain water.

Syo: Oh, don’t be a sourpuss.

Kyoko: I still need to investigate it, see if anything’s off.

Syo: Ooh, I wanna see, I wanna see!

Kyoko: Just don’t get in my way.

Well, I guess between those two, there is enough dead body expertise for that, so I look around the place. It looks utterly thrashed... Mostly due to the water, still slowly spreading from the broken fountain. But there are some curious things to look at.

I approach an object laying on the floor.

Mukuro: That... looks like a hammer.

Celeste: Yes, I do believe that’s correct.

A hammer... painted bright colors with words written on the hammerhead. Justice Hammer.

Chihiro: Justice Hammer...? That sounds familiar...

Mukuro: Familiar how?

Chihiro: I’m not sure... I think it’s from an anime?

Celeste: Robo Justice. A robotic hero, wielding a hammer as a weapon of choice. It’s a popular anime.

Mukuro: Huh? How did you know, Celeste?

Celeste: Oh, I simply happened to see a poster of it one day. I do not have much interest, so I don’t know much else other than the appearance.

So, a hammer resembling one of anime character’s weapon... It doesn’t look like the murder weapon, but still, what is it doing here?

Truth Bullet Added: Justice Hammer

Junko: Hey, Mukuro, over here.

Junko was waving to me, standing by the entrance wall... I came over and saw what she wanted to show me. A winch with cable rising straight up to the ceiling.

Mukuro: Is that what I think it is?

Junko: It’s a winch that suspends the chandelier. You’re supposed to use it to regulate how high it hangs, but look.

She points to the actual handle... it’s just hanging, loose.

Mondo: Hey! The f*cking brake is gone!

Mukuro: A brake?

Mondo: Yeah. sh*t like that always has a brake to make sure it doesn’t unwind on its own. And here it looks like a piece broke off!

Junko: Yeah, and the rope itself is completely unwound.

I see. It probably happened when the brake was broken off, causing the chandelier to fall as the rope unwound from the winch. Was that what caused the fall then?

Truth Bullet Added: Winch

I looked back over the chandelier that crushed Hifumi... It was huge, that thing falling on anyone would be an instant death. I’m surprised his body is as intact as it is, but it’s obvious it just crushed him. Although one thing is off... The rope is not reaching up to ceiling, but is simply laying strewn around the thing. If I had to guesstimate, there were about 70 feet of rope around, enough to reach the ceiling. Does that mean it was actually cut?

Truth Bullet Added: Chandelier

Sayaka: Hey, look, I found something!

I looked over and wanted to approach Sayaka, but almost stepped into a puddle of something... vile.

Mukuro: What... is this?

Sayaka: Oh... I’m sorry, that was... me...

On closer examination, puddle on the ground was vomit...

Sayaka: I... I was the one who found him... It looks so gruesome, at first I passed out... And then when I awoke moments later, I threw up...

Aoi: It’s alright, none of us were meant to handle something like that...

Sayaka: I know...

Mukuro: We need to focus on the investigation. What did you find?

Sayaka: Oh, I thought to check the trash can for clues, like they always do in detective movies. And look!

Sayaka showed me what appeared to be a very crumpled note, in it written with pretty cursive was... an invitation letter.

“To the murderous monster,

I know what you did. Not just the obvious, but beyond that too. The crimes you committed are unforgivable. Come and find me at the library at 11:30 AM today. We shall settle this.”

Mukuro: Is that...

Sayaka: I don’t know... But it does seem like the culprit threw it out, right?

Mukuro: Maybe... Who would send a note like that though?

Truth Bullet Added: Trash Can Note

Kyoko: Hey, Mukuro, Hina, can you two come over?

Aoi: Oh, sure, Kyoko! Hey, Sayaka, go outside and breathe, alright?

Sayaka: Of course... I think I’m still a bit sick...

With that, Sayaka left the library... I saw Celeste depart the premises as well. That didn’t leave many people in here, which made sense... Most wouldn’t want to stick around a body like that. Well, the two of us approached Kyoko.

Kyoko: I have tasks for both of you. Hina, here.

Kyoko handed her a key.

Kyoko: I want you to go to Hifumi’s cottage, find his notes on the game and examine them. Then bring them to me, and do not show it to anyone.

Aoi: Huh? Didn’t you take your own notes?

Kyoko: I did. However, if my hunch is right... There might be a clue in there. And that clue should stay hidden until the time is right...

Aoi: I got it! I’ll be back soon!

With that, she sprinted off. She probably wanted an excuse to get away from the body too... I don’t blame her.

Kyoko: Mukuro, for you... I want you to go around and gather everyone’s alibis.

Mukuro: Huh? Why me?

Kyoko: Because you’re not as trusting as Hina or Makoto. I will be busy with the body here... and Syo.

Mukuro: I’ll see what I can do.

I guess it would be the best to start by finding and questioning those that left...

***

Library Outside

As I left the library and was about to go behind the back to reach Chandler Beach, I ran into Celeste and Toko.

Celeste: Ah, Mukuro, I believe I have discovered something curious.

Mukuro: What is it?

Toko: Incriminating evidence a-against you!

Mukuro: Huh...? Me?

I rushed over to what the two were looking at. There on the ground was a half open duffle bag with a canister of gas beside it, and as I reached inside the bag...

Mukuro: Those... are my clothes...

Exact copy of the outfit I was wearing right now. But how?

Toko: You planned to burn it as evidence, d-didn’t you?!

Celeste: I do not believe it is so simple, Toko.

Toko: Huh?

Celeste: It is obvious somebody tried to frame Mukuro by bringing her outfit here.

Mukuro: But how’d they even get it?

Celeste: That is a rather juicy question now, is it not?

Truth Bullet Added: Duffle Bag

Celeste was being vague... I rummaged through the bag some more, when...

Mukuro: Huh... Is that a note of some kind?

Toko: What does it s-say?

I unfolded the note and read it... It was a bit hard with messy handwriting, but intelligible.

“To the dark-haired witch,

Your vile deeds are unforgivable crime! And I shall exact justice upon you, for ones of past, present and future, forgotten and not! Come to library at 11 AM and confront me, or have your dark secret revealed to all!”

Mukuro: This is almost like a note in the library... But it has different time and wording...

Celeste: Oh? There was more than one note?

Mukuro: Yeah, we found another one thrown into the trash in the library.

Celeste: That is rather curious...

Truth Bullet Added: Duffle Bag Note

Mukuro: Anyway, that’s not what I came here for. Do you two have an alibi for the time of the murder and before it?

Toko: Alibi? N-No... I was just in my cottage for over an h-hour before the announcement... So don’t t-try to pin it on me!

Celeste: I was simply... around the first island since our own meeting.

Mukuro: And nobody can confirm either of that?

Toko: I knew it! You’re t-trying to pin it on me!

Celeste: I’m afraid not.

Well, that won’t work as real alibi then...

Celeste: To note, if you want to question Byakuya, I recommend you use that ladder.

She pointed at long ladder attached to side of library building. Looks like it can be used to access the catwalks near library’s ceiling from outside...

Mukuro: Well... I guess here goes nothing.

***

Library Catwalks

This was really high... At least I wasn’t afraid of heights. And indeed, Byakuya was there, right beside the spot where the chandelier’s suspensions were supposed to be.

Mukuro: Hey! You!

Byakuya ignored me as he was examining something on the catwalk itself... I approached to look as well, and... Is that a miniature guillotine?!

Mukuro: What the...?

Byakuya: It’s affixed to the chandelier rope... I see...

He... was right. The end of rope that was connecting the winch and the chandelier pulley was affixed was running through the tiny... toy... guillotine. It sounds like the kind of toy only Monokuma would come up with... And it even has a tiny antenna! That thing is totally remote controlled... Wait...

Mukuro: Was it used to cut the rope then?

Truth Bullet Added: Toy Guillotine

Byakuya chuckled, ignoring me and standing up... And as he turned around to face me, he simply deadpanned.

Byakuya: What do you want?

Mukuro: Ugh... Whatever, just tell me what you were doing at the time of the murder?

Byakuya: I believe you’re aware already? Don’t tell me your memory is this short.

That’s right... I saw him literally right as body discovery announcement sounded, and he was on the First Island.

Byakuya: And before you ask, while I have visited the library today, while I have been here before, it was perfectly fine, and I’ve been gone for over an hour by the time he died, at least if Monokuma File is to be believed.

Mukuro: And who can confirm that?

Byakuya: No idea. Toko may have been spying on me. Either way, I have found what I was looking for.

Pushing past me he left for that ladder to the outside... Actually, looking around, it looks like the little hatch from the outside was the only reasonable way to access catwalks at all. I looked down... I could see Kyoko and Syo arguing over something by the body, the water flooding slowly getting worse, and blood in the water making it look awful. Makoto, Junko and Mondo have went elsewhere too it seems. This is a pretty good vantage point, all things considered... But this didn’t seem too relevant, so I went back to the task I was given.

***

Chandler Beach

Leon was standing by the cottage, simply overlooking as Taka, drenched wet was sitting down with his legs crossed, staring into the sea... Well, at least he wasn’t violently trying to get to the body anymore.

Mukuro: So...? How is he?

Leon: He’s... Damn, man... He’s a prick, but nobody deserves this.

Mukuro: ...that bad?

Leon: He’s responsive. Cold water probably helped. But man... This is just depressing, and I’m worried about leaving him alone.

Mukuro: I see... Well, before I ask him... What was up with you and Sayaka and Makoto?

Leon: Oh, the beach party... Heh, it was right here.

Yeah, there were three towels spread out on the beach. One just thrown down messily, another looking extremely pretty and third half-washed away by the waves...

Leon: Sayaka invited us the other day. To turn down a cute invite like that, what a monster would do that?!

Mukuro: So all three of you were there?

Leon: Yeah, until we found out Makoto’s sunscreen bottle was leaking. So Sayaka went to grab another one at the pharmacy and a few minutes after she left... boom, the announcement!

Mukuro: Can you tell me exactly when it happened?

Leon: Sorry, not much for clocks when enjoying the sea. But all three of us were here together since 10:30 at least.

Truth Bullet Added: Leon’s Account

Mukuro: Thanks... Any advice on asking Taka for his story?

Leon: Uh... No clue, seriously.

Mukuro: Sigh...

Hesitantly I approached Taka and touched his shoulder. He turned around, looking up at me... Geez, those were some empty eyes...

Mukuro: Hey... I just wanted to ask... What were you doing before the body was found?

Kiyotaka: ...am I one of the suspects?

Mukuro: Sorry... I just need to know where everyone was. I doubt you could’ve done it—

Kiyotaka: Central Island. I was stuck there.

Mukuro: Stuck...?

Kiyotaka: I took it upon myself to keep watch of stundets’ movements. I thought that by monitoring that... I could prevent a potential murder...

Kiyotaka: But when I decided to leave... Those giant robots actively stopped me... I couldn’t leave Central Island...

Kiyotaka: If I chose to spend time with Hifumi... Do you think I could’ve... prevented this?

Mukuro: I have no clue. But... Can you tell me more?

Kiyotaka: ...here.

He simply handed me a notebook. It was wet, but flipping through it, it seems like most text was relatively intact...

“9:40 – Junko goes to 2nd Island

9:50 – Aoi goes to 2nd Island

9:55 – Kyoko and Syo go to 2nd Island

10:05 – Byakuya leaves 2nd Island

10:06 – Toko leaves 2nd Island

10:10 – Sayaka goes to 2nd Island

10:25 – Makoto and Leon go to 2nd Island

10:40 – Mukuro goes to 2nd Island

10:45 – Hifumi goes to 2nd Island

11:?? – Celeste leaves 2nd Island”

Kiyotaka: I started watch at 9:30...

Mukuro: I see... This might be helpful. By the way, regarding the last entry... is it me or is there no exact time here?

Kiyotaka: I tried to leave at around 11 on clock... And I was too confused by the robots... I remember Celeste leaving at some point, shortly before announcement, but... never noted down time...

Mukuro: I see... there’s another thing... It says I went to Second Island. I never did that. I was on First Island the whole day. Well, until the announcement that is.

Kiyotaka kept looking at me with those wide, blank eyes... Until suddenly his pupils shrank, like a cat’s...

Kiyotaka: That’s a lie! I saw you! I saw you, Mukuro Ikusaba, going to the Second Island at exactly 10:40 AM!

Mukuro: But I didn’t...?

Kiyotaka: I see! You are trying to lie! And yet, nobody but the culprit would have reason to lie! Henceforth! You are the killer!

Mukuro: What? Look, there’s got to be a reasonable explanation to—

Kiyotaka: Leon! I need your help! I do doubt I’ll be able to apprehend her myself!

Leon: Uh... Dude, I seriously doubt it’s a good idea. Plus, I don’t think Mukuro’s lying.

Kiyotaka: Then... are you claiming that I am lying? I would never lie! Fine, I shall bring the killer to justice myse—

As Taka grabbed me I simply pushed him and he fell backwards, into the sand. His movements were stiff and he was pretty much falling apart mentally. After he fell, he didn’t even bother getting back up, simply staring into the sky, his speech reducing back to mumbling.

Kiyotaka: I didn’t lie... You lied... You’re the killer... One who killed Hifumi...

This was just too pathetic to look at... I took the notebook, and waved to Leon as I left.

Truth Bullet Added: Kiyotaka’s Observation Schedule

***

Sports Center

This was a good idea of a place to check. Mondo and Chihiro were here, but he seemed to have no luck finding clues at all.

Mukuro: Hey, Mondo!

Mondo: Oh... Hey. sh*t, seriously? No clues at all?

Chihiro: I’m sorry...

Mondo: Nah, you tried...

Mukuro: No luck, you two?

Chihiro: It seems like this place is unrelated to the scene...

Mukuro: Well, while I’m here, I am trying to gather everyone’s alibis. For Kyoko that is... Can you tell me what you were doing before the murder?

Chihiro: Oh... All the girls were helping me train here. Kyoko, Hina, Junko... even Syo. We gathered at 10:00 and then we had a fun time... But then Sayaka ran in, looking scared and told us to come to the library. So all of us rushed over and...

Mukuro: I see... That does line up with what Sayaka and Leon said... So Sayaka discovered the body in the library and then ran to here to get you all?

Chihiro: Yes... It was 11:42 when she ran in...

Truth Bullet Added: Chihiro’s Account

Mukuro: That is helpful, thank you, Chihiro.

Mondo: sh*t... I should’ve been the one helping you train and not messing around with stupid-ass—What kind of man am I?!

Mukuro: Mondo. What about you?

Mondo: Huh? The hell about me? I was in the restaurant whole f*cking morning. Until the announcement. You even saw me there.

Mukuro: Right... I remember. When I was grabbing water, right?

Mondo: Yeah... sh*t.

Mukuro: That was about... 10:40 if I remember correctly.

Mondo: Yeah, something like that.

Mukuro: ...and did you see anyone else there?

Mondo: Not a f*ckin’ soul.

Truth Bullet Added: Mondo’s Account

Chihiro, Aoi, Kyoko, Junko and Syo in the Sports Center... Sayaka, Makoto and Leon on the Chandler Beach... and rest don’t have solid enough alibis, including myself. Sure, I can say I saw Byakuya and Mondo on First Island, and they saw me, but is that reliable enough if neither was around the time of death? Not to mention Taka’s weird schedule...

Either way, I did what Kyoko asked of me. It was time to go and report back to her. I waved goodbye to Mondo and Chihiro as I left the Sports Center.

***

Library

Kyoko: Ugh, you’re insufferable! I’m telling you, that is not admissible evidence! Any professional coroner would just laugh it off.

Syo: Professional coroners only cut the bodies that have been dead for hours! My bodies die as I cut them, so I am more professional than they will ever be!

Kyoko: So what, I should just trust your killer hunch that the bruising didn’t form because it was so shortly before death?

Syo: Of course! I mean, you’ve seen his f*ckin’ crotch! It’s hilarious, kyahahahaha!

Kyoko: The bruising could’ve just been the chandelier falling.

Syo: Blah blah, could’ve and would’ve, your theories are dumb. I’m telling you, I know from practice how a dead body that got kicked in the nuts before death looks, and this is one of them!

Kyoko: So, you are the new group coroner then?

Syo: Oh wow, I guess I am! I am Missus Steal Your Usefulness I guess... Kyahahahaha!

Mukuro: Uh... what is happening?

Syo: Oh, nothing special, just detective missie getting owned.

Kyoko: Nobody is owning no one here. She’s just more certain of her ‘killer expertise’ than she is of cold facts.

Syo: If you keep being so icy, you won’t just have cold facts, but cold farts too! Kyahahaha!

Kyoko: Grr...

I think this is the first time Kyoko is this angry...

Mukuro: So, uhm... What did you find?

Syo: Okay, so, Huffy did totally die from getting squished by the chandelier... But he also took a bit of beating before it too!

Mukuro: A beating?

Syo: Yeah! Like, fistfight kind of beating! And a good ol’ kick in the family precious... Kyahahaha!

Truth Bullet Added: Syo’s Examination Results

Kyoko: Well, if we’re trusting ‘killer’s expertise’ over the actual facts, then yes. However, that is not a 100% certainty.

Syo: Stay salty!

Kyoko: But that’s not all. While examining the body we also found this...

Kyoko showed me... a bent plastic toy. It looked like some sort of... Halloween noisemaker shaped like a bat?

Kyoko: It was hidden on top of the fountain before it was broken. It’d be impossible to spot it, but it’s waterproof, so it would have worked, were it not crushed.

Syo: It’s some remote controlled ‘spook prank’ kind of thing!

Mukuro: I see... I guess that is related to the case if it was there.

Kyoko: Of course.

Truth Bullet Added: Broken Noisemaker

After that I recounted my findings to Kyoko, including both evidence and alibis.

Kyoko: I see... Hina did deliver Hifumi’s notes, and they do have some serious information. I can’t say what it is just yet, but... It might change the entire case.

Mukuro: Why can’t you say it?

Kyoko: Because if what you told me is true, then you are one of the suspects.

Mukuro: Oh... I see.

Kyoko: Don’t worry. I don’t think it was you, but there are a lot of inconsistencies we’ll have to clear up before—

Ding Dong Bing Bong

Usami: I’m sorry, but... The amount of time is... based on a very complex formula, but... you’re all out. I really really hope you found all the evidence, because now it is the time to gather at the Rock of Justice! Uwah...

Click!

Kyoko: ...damn it. They won’t give us enough time for complete investigation ever, will they?

Mukuro: Monokuma probably wants the trials to still have some function.

Syo: Then let’s goooo!

***

Rock of Justice

Everyone was gathered up now. Even Taka, still looking rather empty, and although he did mumble some accusations as he pointed at me, it seems like everybody was ignoring him now.

Byakuya: And so, another fun game begins.

Aoi: Seriously? This is all a game to you? Someone is dead!

Byakuya: Yes. And? That doesn’t change anything. It’s still a game of life and death.

Celeste: ...a true gamble. But one would expect gambles like that involve a more... satisfying reward for winning than just survival.

Aoi: Ugh, you two are terrible.

Sayaka: Yeah, this is all just too morbid...

Leon: Hey can you guys stop bickering? Man, today has been soiled enough as it is.

Makoto: Yeah! We’re all in it together, so we should work together to try and find the culprit!

Mondo: Yeah! Whatever asshole did this is going to get it!

Monokuma: Of course they will! Assuming you manage to find them that is!

And here are those two, with sulking Usami and cheery Monokuma.

Monokuma: That’s what executions are for after all!

Mondo: Huh? Wait, sh*t I didn’t mean it like—Damn it, f*ck you!

Chihiro: Someone... will still have to die...

Celeste: And it is very likely that said someone is deceiving us right now.

Kiyotaka: Whoever killed... Hifumi... deserves execution...

Leon: Hey, man, come on...

Toko: H-How long will we be waiting? Where’s the elevator? I j-just want to get it over with...

Junko: The culprit’s not that obvious, you know.

Syo: Aren’t they...?

I realized that many pairs of eyes were side-eyeing me now... yeah, even if Taka’s accusations were meek, they all suspected me at least a bit. But trying to deny it now wouldn’t matter. I’d need to wait until the trial for that.

Then, finally, elevator opened up and the two plush mascots waved.

Monokuma: Go on now, get in! I can’t wait!

Usami: Good luck and do your best! And please, remember your friendships! Oh, this is so sad...

Not much else to do, all of us got into the elevator. Including Leon...

Celeste: Not staying behind this time around?

Leon: Huh? Of course not! My life’s on the line here too, you know. If I knew, I’d never do it in the first place, I told you!

Past that, there wasn’t any talking, only some incoherent mumbling from Taka and occasional bout of psychotic laughter from Syo as the elevator descended.

Eventually, it reached its destination. The trial grounds, where we all took our positions. That extra podium spot open before, was now taken by Syo.

Hifumi Yamada... He wasn’t the most pleasant of guys, but he was well-intentioned and tried his best. And yet, despite all that... He ended up killed. And the killer is someone in this trial room...

Junko. Mondo. Hifumi. Leon. Byakuya. Yasuhiro.

Was it really a freak accident? Or was it an intentionally set up trap?

Makoto. Sakura. Aoi. Kyoko. Toko. Syo.

If so... who could’ve done something like that? Who would have?

Kiyotaka. Celeste. Sayaka. Chihiro.

Mukuro.

The suspicion is definitely hanging on me right now... I have no choice but to do my best to dispel it. And find the real killer, whoever it may be.

For all of our sakes.

Class Trial Start

Evidence Review:

Monokuma File 2

The victim was Hifumi Yamada, the Ultimate Fanfic Creator.

The victim’s body was discovered in the Chandler Library at 11:44 AM.

The victim died from his whole body being crushed with a huge object. Death was instantaneous. Time of death was 11:27.

No drugs or poison were found in victim’s bloodstream.

Justice Hammer

A large wooden hammer, repainted to resemble one wielded by a cartoon show character, found at the scene of the crime.

Winch

A winch with rope used to suspend the chandelier in the main library atrium. It was found completely unwound, with a brake broken off.

Chandelier

A gigantic ornate chandelier that crushed Hifumi and the fountain. It remained intact even after the fall. Still has about 70 feet of rope attached.

Trash Can Note

A note, found in library’s trash can. Handwriting of two notes doesn’t seem to match.

“To the murderous monster,

I know what you did. Not just the obvious, but beyond that too. The crimes you committed are unforgivable. Come and find me at the library at 11:30 AM today. We shall settle this.”

Duffle Bag

A discarded duffle bag, found behind the library beside a can of gasoline. Contains a set of clothes identical to Mukuro.

Duffle Bag Note

A note, found in the duffle bag behind the library. Handwriting of two notes doesn’t seem to match.

“To the dark-haired witch,

Your vile deeds are unforgivable crime! And I shall exact justice upon you, for ones of past, present and future, forgotten and not! Come to library at 11 AM and confront me, or have your dark secret revealed to all!”

Toy Guillotine

A peculiar toy, remote controlled guillotine with perfectly sharp blade. Was found in catwalks of library, with rope from winch below still affixed to it, and cut.

Leon’s Account

Leon, Sayaka and Makoto were all at the Chandler Beach since 10:30 AM. Shortly before the body discovery, Sayaka went to grab some sunscreen from the pharmacy.

Kiyotaka’s Observation Schedule

A notebook, containing schedule of students’ movements through 2nd Island’s bridge from 9:30 AM onward.

9:40 – Junko goes to 2nd Island

9:50 – Aoi goes to 2nd Island

9:55 – Kyoko and Syo go to 2nd Island

10:05 – Byakuya leaves 2nd Island

10:06 – Toko leaves 2nd Island

10:10 – Sayaka goes to 2nd Island

10:25 – Makoto and Leon go to 2nd Island

10:40 – Mukuro goes to 2nd Island

10:45 – Hifumi goes to 2nd Island

11:?? – Celeste leaves 2nd Island

After 11:00 AM Kiyotaka tried to leave Central Island, but claims that the Monobeasts stopped him for mysterious reasons.

Chihiro’s Account

According to Chihiro, from 10:00 AM onward, himself, Junko, Aoi, Kyoko and Syo were all in the Sports Center. At 11:42 AM Sayaka rushed in, and called them all to the Library, having been first to discover the body.

Mondo’s Account

Mondo claims to have spent the whole morning in the Hotel Restaurant. He also confirms seeing Mukuro there at about 10:40 AM.

Syo’s Examination Results

According to Syo’s ‘killer expertise’, Hifumi took a beating extremely shortly before he died, including some rather dirty moves.

Broken Noisemaker

Remote controlled toy that makes loud noises, found hidden in the library's fountain. It has been broken by chandelier’s fall.

Chapter 15: Chapter 2 – Love and Hate, Justice and Egoism, Against World's Evil! – Trial, Part 1

Chapter Text

Class Trial Start

Monokuma: Now that you’re all gathered up, we can get on with the basic explanation of the Class Trial.

Monokuma: During the trial, you will debate which one of you is the killer, and convince everyone else using your evidence.

Usami: At the end, the votes will determine the results of who is chosen as the blackened...

Monokuma: If you vote correctly, then the killer will be punished with an execution!

Usami: But if you do it wrong, then else gets killed... And the blackened gets to escape...

Monokuma: Now then. Let the Class Trial begin!

Usami: This... Is still so, so cruel!

Two new portraits were adorning the room... Sakura’s portrait, with a bloody K.O. written over her face, and Hifumi’s, with two small X’s over his eyes...

Celeste: Will you be explaining this every time like that?

Leon: Hey, not everyone has properly attended yet.

Syo: Yepperoni!

Kyoko: Anyway, we should get to it. To figuring out who killed Hifumi.

Aoi: But... how do we do that? He was killed by an accident, wasn’t he?

Byakuya: Didn’t you listen before? There are no accidents on this island. It’s clear that toys have everything under strict control.

Celeste: So, you’re suggesting that someone caused that accident then?

Byakuya: That much is obvious. We wouldn’t be here otherwise.

Kiyotaka: But nobody had a reason to kill Hifumi!

Leon: Uh, what if there was no reason?

Junko: No reason? So what, somebody set an elaborate trap for no reason at all?

Leon: No, I mean what if there wasn’t a sane reason? Just hear me out, okay.

Nonstop Debate Start!

Leon: So, there was no real motive presented at all, right?

Celeste: That is correct. Game provided us with no proper motive.

Sayaka: I’m not even sure it was meant to be one anymore...

Leon: Then what if the person who killed Hifumi...

Leon: Was just crazy?!

Toko: Y-You mean...

Leon: That’s right! The serial killer!

Syo: What-what-what?! No way I’d kill someone that fat! Especially without scissors!

Chihiro: But... uhm... that doesn’t sound right...

Mondo: But is there anyone else crazy enough to do that?

> Chihiro’s Account

No, that’s wrong!

Break!

Mukuro: While Genocider Syo is a crazy serial killer... There’s no way she could have done it. She was with Kyoko and the others.

Kyoko: Indeed. I’ve been keeping an eye on Syo the whole day. There’s no way she snuck away, even during our gym time.

Syo: Yes! So stop accusing me! Geez, a murder so un-cute... Who do you take me for?!

Makoto: I don’t think any murder is cute...

Kiyotaka: Well, I do in fact have another potential culprit in mind! Especially with your own rashness to accuse, Leon!

Leon: Huh? What are you talking about?

Kiyotaka: Both you and Mondo had rather unfavorable view of me and Hifumi. While I do have good reason to believe Mondo was unable to do it... That does not clear you up at all!

Sayaka: Uhm... actually...

Leon: Seriously?! The hell, man?!

Mondo: Yeah, there’s no f*cking way!

I need to intervene before it becomes a full on shouting match... Leon couldn’t have done it either, because of...

> Leon’s Account

Mukuro: Guys, calm down, all three of you. Taka, you’re wrong... because there is no way Hifumi could’ve been killed by Leon either. Makoto, Sayaka and Leon all confirm each-others’ alibis.

Makoto: Yeah! I hung out with Leon before going to beach, and Sayaka was already there. And then we had a fun day...

Leon: Yeah, that’s right! Don’t go accusing people out of the blue like that!

Kiyotaka: I... see... But then...?

Makoto: Taka, I know you’re upset... But we can’t just start accusing each other. We have to believe in one another if we want to find the culprit.

Toko: B-But... where do we even start...? Th-the alibis are confusing....

Sayaka: Well, there has to be something that could point someone on the scene, right?

Something that could point to someone... Maybe there is.

Nonstop Debate Start!

Aoi: Something that could point to someone? What does that mean?

Celeste: Perhaps there is a hint on the crime scene that could point one to a specific person to question.

Chihiro: But... what kind of hint?

Leon: Maybe they left something behind, like a piece of their clothing!

Syo: Ooh, or maybe the murder had their own signature flair to it!

Mondo: What, are you saying there are more killers than just you?

Syo: Well, someone offed Huffy, right?

> Trash Can Note

I agree with you!

Break!

Mukuro: Actually, Celeste, you’re right. There is a hint to someone specific on the crime scene... Sayaka found it in the trash can there.

Celeste: There... is?

Mukuro: Yeah. It’s a note, addressed to ‘the murderous monster’, inviting them to the library at 11:30.

Byakuya: Just before the time of the murder.

Kiyotaka: That can’t possibly be related! Hifumi was no murderous monster!

Syo: Wait, everyone, hold your horses! Can I see that thing?

Mukuro: Huh?

Junko: Looks like we’re getting somewhere.

Kyoko: Mukuro, could you show Syo the note?

Mukuro: Sure... here.

I passed the note over as Syo looked over it... Before just shrugging and handing it back.

Syo: Nope, never mind.

Makoto: What was that about...?

Syo: Oh, I just thought that it might be the note that I received this morning! But nope, some other ominous invite to the library.

Kyoko: What?! You received an invite to the library too today?

Syo: Oh, yeah, I forgot to say! It had different time and was written more poetically and stuff... But, you know. I just threw it on the ground and ignored it! I’m not an idiot to come alone when ominous someone invites you to meet them alone.

Kyoko: You what—Why didn’t you tell me?!

Syo: Eh? I didn’t think it’d matter and nobody asked. If I didn’t go there, then nothing would happen anyway.

Sayaka: But... something did happen...

Syo: Oh, well, now you know. Happy?

Celeste: I think I am starting to get a better picture. Mukuro, I do believe you are also in possession of the note that Syo received.

Mukuro: Yeah... you’re right.

> Duffle Bag Note

Mukuro: Here, check this one out. Is that your note, Syo?

Syo: Hmm.... Yes! That’s the note that I got! Where’d you get that? Did you just pick it up off the ground?

Toko: W-Where did you throw it anyway?!

Syo: Oh, it was slid under my second floor door, but when I read it I just threw it out of the window. It was probably just laying there on the ground between girls’ cottages! Kyahahaha!

Chihiro: But... doesn’t that mean that anyone could have picked up that second note and thought it was for them...?

Kiyotaka: Dark-haired witch... That definitely fits more people here than murderous monster!

Aoi: But if someone did get that note... Then who?

Kiyotaka: I believe that much is obvious. It was none other than Mukuro Ikusaba!

Makoto: Taka! Not again!

Kiyotaka: Oh, trust me, I have plenty of evidence!

Nonstop Debate Start!

Kiyotaka: For starters, she is in possession of the note as of now!

Toko: A-Actually... we found it t-together... in a bag behind the library...

Kiyotaka: But who’s to say she didn’t only pretend to find it there? And that’s not all!

Kiyotaka: I distinctly remember Mukuro going to the second island shortly before Hifumi! And never coming back!

Mondo: What the...? That doesn’t sound right...

Makoto: Wait, so Mukuro was on the second island, but not with either of our groups?

Kiyotaka: Indeed! That, and fitting with description in the note, may mean she is the one that went there!

> Mondo’s Account

No, that’s wrong!

Break!

Mukuro: Taka, I couldn’t have been there! Mondo is my alibi!

Mondo: Yeah! I was in the cafeteria, just... messing around at the time. I definitely saw her!

Kiyotaka: But... But...

Aoi: Hey, can I ask something? Why are we talking about person receiving the note like they’re the culprit?

Sayaka: Huh? Aren’t they?

Aoi: Well, the note made it look like the person writing it wanted to attack the person receiving it... right?

Syo: Obviously! That’s why I didn’t go!

Celeste: And it appears that both notes carry similar meaning...

Leon: So are you saying that Hifumi is the one who received one of the notes?

Mondo: No f*cking way... The guy has nothing to do with either of the notes!

Kyoko: Maybe that’s because Hifumi wasn’t entirely blameless in all of this.

Kiyotaka: What... What are you saying?!

Byakuya: Well, why else would he be there in the library otherwise?

Kiyotaka: It... it could’ve just been a coincidence!

Taka is wrong... I need to show him that.

Nonstop Debate Start!

Kiyotaka: I refuse to accept this! Show me some evidence!

Makoto: But there wasn’t anything implicating Hifumi at the crime scene, was there?

Celeste: Are you sure about it?

Leon: I don’t know... I saw the place like once...

Kyoko: Whether there is or not, I know for certain that Hifumi was one with the motive.

Kiyotaka: Without evidence, it is just conjecture!

> Justice Hammer

No, that’s wrong!

Break!

Mukuro: Actually... The Justice Hammer from the scene...

Sayaka: Uh... What about it?

Mukuro: It wasn’t used, but it was clearly a weapon prepared in advance. Isn’t that weird?

Byakuya: It’d be idiotic to prepare a weapon when you have set a trap using chandelier.

Junko: Exactly. Which probably means that it was different people setting trap and bringing hammer...

Mukuro: Not only that, but its design too... It just screams ‘Hifumi’...

Chihiro: It was from that one show he liked, right?

Kyoko: Indeed. But that’s not all. Isn’t that right, Hina?

Aoi: Y-Yeah... the stuff we found in Hifumi’s cabin...

Kyoko: I suppose now I heard enough to reveal the motive behind this crime. It was hidden in Hifumi’s own notes...

Mondo: His notes? About that game sh*t?

Kyoko: Yes. It appears that playing it afterwards... He discovered all the secrets. And doing so opened up two more routes to play.

Makoto: W-What? Two more routes?

Kyoko: Exactly. Blue and Purple Magical Girl weren’t just secondary characters... But secret playable ones. Although, from what I gathered, Hifumi only had time to complete the Purple route before the arcade was destroyed...

Junko: It’s still kinda weird that it was...

Kyoko: The route was story of a girl extremely powerful, but desperate to keep her power hidden... To the point where at the end of the story a policeman confronts her, wanting to ‘expose’ her. So she transforms and defeats him alone, as her Final Boss.

Celeste: I do not see how it could be relevant to our situation...

Sayaka: Purple Magical Girl... was Toko, right?

Toko: Y-Yes... So what?! I was in that stupid g-game too! So what? I’m not a k-killer!

Kyoko: I’m not saying you are... But this was the reward.

Kyoko pulled out a file and opened it for us. It was a police case file, describing murder of police officer... Takaaki Ishimaru... who was conducting independent investigation... And was killed in exactly same manner as victims of infamous serial killer Genocider Syo... There was even a photo of a man in police uniform, crucified on the wall with a bunch of familiar scissors... And his face... was familiar too...

I looked at Taka. His expression was one of horror...

Chihiro: Taka... I’m so sorry... This is horrible...

Kiyotaka: That’s... that has to be fake! Genocider Syo killed my father...? That’s ridiculous!

Toko: Oh... n-no... It happened even d-during missing memories...

Syo: Kyahahaha! Okay, consider me officially mad! Whoever runs this gig, how dare you rob me of precious memories of such beautiful kill, huh?!

Kiyotaka: Beautiful? It—It has to be fake!

Kyoko: I don’t think it matters if its fake or not.

Syo: What?!

Aoi: Wait, Kyoko, but didn’t you say it was probably real...?

Kiyotaka: W-What...?

Byakuya: Modus operandi matches real Genocider Syo. Even she believes this one was hers.

Syo: Indeed! Nobody could fake something like that!

Mondo: Wait a f*cking second! All we’re talking about is the stuck-up over here. What about the fat guy? How the hell would he have the motive?

Makoto: Taka and Hifumi did become good friends lately...

Mukuro: And Hifumi was already afraid and hateful towards Genocider Syo too.

Syo: Yep, he squealed more than anyone else whenever he saw me!

Junko: So, he played the game, got the file, and finally decided to kill her when he realized she murdered his new bestie’s father?

Kyoko: Not only that, but his perk, Canon Non-Compliant, allowed him to secretly keep another student’s perk disabled, without them even realizing. And at time of death, it was locked onto Genocider Syo too.

Syo: Ooh, a revenge-fueled scheme like that... Okay, you know what, physically he wasn’t my type, but he definitely had the passion of a beautiful boy!

Leon: Can you just... not...?

Kiyotaka: So... Hifumi was... getting revenge... on my behalf?

Usami: Uhm... Everyone! Please! Don’t get sidetracked!

Monokuma: Oh, come on! I was enjoying it! They were wasting time talking about semantics of ‘why’ so much that I wanted to see their time run out before they got to ‘who’!

Usami: That’s wrong! You need to work to discover the culprit... And while I’m glad you’re taking time to understand one another like that, I really wouldn’t want that to come at the cost at lost trial!

Sayaka: Uhm... But where were we again?

Mondo: We just discovered that something was f*cking off with sh*t he said. He and I both saw Mukuro at the same f*cking time! And I ain’t lying here!

Celeste: I do not believe either of you is lying.

Toko: B-But how is it possible to see s-same person in two different places at once?

Chihiro: That does seem impossible...

Mukuro: But I’m telling you, I was there! With Mondo!

I raise an objection!

Kiyotaka: This is impossible. I am certain of what I saw and I stand by every single word.

Mukuro: But Mondo said—

Kiyotaka: He clearly is covering for you due to his own crush!

Mukuro: His what—How is that relevant?

Kiyotaka: I would never lie in a debate! Do not accuse me of that!

Rebuttal Showdown Start!

Kiyotaka: I was there since 9:30 AM sharp!

Kiyotaka: I observed movements of every student!

Kiyotaka: Admittedly it was from a distance...

Kiyotaka: But a case of mistaken identity is impossible!

Kiyotaka: It couldn’t have been anyone else!

> Duffle Bag

I’ll cut through your words!

Break!

Mukuro: You say you were observing from a distance... If that person had similar hairstyle and wore clothes similar to mine... Could you have made a mistake?

Kiyotaka: I won’t deny my flaws, my eyesight does not happen to be truly perfect, so it is possible. But the notion of someone dressing up as you is ridiculous!

Mukuro: If so, then how do you explain a duffle bag we found behind the library, that has a set of my clothing in it?

Kiyotaka: A what?

Toko: Y-Yeah... It had a copy of h-her outfit... Just like ones we get in our own c-cottages... No b-blood on it either...

Celeste: So, it would appear the person Taka saw was someone else who stole the outfit... put it on... and pretended to be you while passing by.

Kyoko: That does sound like a possibility.

Junko: Wow, I can’t believe you get cosplayed before I do.

Sayaka: So, whoever did that has to be the culprit then, right? Who is it?

Who was it that disguised themselves as me? Who could have pulled off similar appearance, with minor adjustments? Who could have gotten their hands on a copy of my outfit?

...

There is only one possibility...

Select a person.

Celeste: Mukuro? Do you want to say something?

Mukuro: It was you, Celeste. You disguised yourself as me, didn’t you?

Celeste: Ah. There it is.

Aoi: Wait a second! But how would Celeste get her hand on Mukuro’s clothes?

Leon: Yeah, we only have our copies in our cottages, right?

Mukuro: Just before the murder, Celeste came to hang out at my cottage... and at certain point she tricked me into leaving. That’s when I met with Mondo, but during that... she was all alone in my cottage. She also had a bag with her, so it’s possible she stole it.

Makoto: Celeste... stole your uniform...?

Kyoko: Also, remember the note.

Byakuya: Dark-haired witch... I can think of someone who would think it’s addressed to them.

Chihiro: Celeste... was it really...?

Celeste: Fine. I’ll confess.

Syo: Whaaaaat?!

Leon: Well, that was easy...

Mondo: sh*t, seriously?

Celeste: I did steal a set of your clothes, Mukuro, to impersonate you. I do apologize for attempting to frame you for murder, though. It was nothing personal, you were simply the person closest to me in appearance.

Junko: That’s a half-assed apology if I ever heard one.

Celeste: I also was the one that set the trap. The trap consisting of noisemaker and guillotine.

Byakuya: How like you. Guillotine? Seriously? Could it have been any more obvious?

Celeste: I myself was surprised at the fact that such toys existed within the machine. But it was the perfect tool for the plan I had.

Celeste: I did find the note that, as it turns out, Genocider Syo threw out. I assumed it was for me, as it was laying in passageway between girls’ cottages. And so I formulated a simple plan. Disguise myself as someone else, prepare a trap for my would-be-killer and get them instead.

Aoi: How... how can you be so calm about this?!

Kiyotaka: You murderer!

Makoto: But why didn’t you just come to anyone else? At least Syo just ignored the note, but you—

Celeste: Because I felt threatened, you dumbass!

Makoto: H-Huh?!

Celeste: Ahem... Apologies for this outburst... But my desire to escape has been rather high since before Killing Game even started. And when I felt threatened... Especially with way I... sabotaged my public opinion during one of breakfast meetings, however unintentionally... I felt it would be seen as falsehood if I tried to ask for help.

Kyoko: I told you. All of you... If you just came to me...

Celeste: Let’s not talk about ‘what-ifs’ there, shall we? My confession is not over. I have many more things I can confess. Do you wish to know who vandalized your cottage, Kiyotaka? That was my doing as well.

Kiyotaka: You?! But—But why? And in such crude manner?

Celeste: Crude, but gratifying. That and I simply was mad at you stealing away my morning tea maker. That was all.

Sayaka: How vain can you be?

Junko: Yeah, damn.

Celeste: Do you wish for me to confess more? I shall. I shall reveal my perk to you. Gambler’s Luck, it’s ironically called. Any machine with random outcomes on the island will give me my own desired result. That is how I so easily obtained elements of the trap.

Leon: She’s... still going...

Toko: C-Can’t we just call a vote already?! I’m s-sick of this!

Kiyotaka: Indeed! The crime needs to be punished!

Celeste: At-ta-ta... You seem to be misunderstanding something. I am confessing every secret of mine, simply in hopes you believe my sincerity.

Byakuya: You? Sincere? Please.

Chihiro: I want to believe you, but...

Celeste: Well, I want to point out there is exactly one, very specific thing that I did not confess to... Perhaps you noticed it?

One thing she never mentioned in this rant of reveals... That’s right. She never said that she is the one who...

Class Trial Suspended

Chapter 16: Chapter 2 – Love and Hate, Justice and Egoism, Against World's Evil! – Trial, Part 2

Chapter Text

Class Trial Resumed

> Killed Hifumi

Mukuro: You... admitted to setting the trap, vandalizing cottage, pretending to be me and even revealed your perk... But... You never said you were the culprit. Is that why you’re confessing right now?

Celeste: Indeed. I know for absolute certain that I could not have been the one that killed him. I am not denying the fact that I attempted to do so. And for that, I can only apologize. Should it happen again, I will definitely resort to your help, Kyoko.

Kyoko: It’s too late now.

Kiyotaka: A liar to the end! How fitting!

Leon: Yeah... No way I’m buying that crap.

Mondo: sh*t, I hate agreeing with stuck-up, but it’s totally true...

Makoto: Wait just a moment... What if Celeste is telling the truth?

Sayaka: I... don’t think I can believe something like that...

Toko: She has t-to be lying?

Syo: Liar-liar-pants on fire!

Kyoko: Hold on. We have to explore all the possibilities first.

Chihiro: I... want to believe in Celeste... With way she poured her heart out just now...

Aoi: I... I think we should at least hear her out properly.

Byakuya: Seriously? You can’t be considering wasting time on that.

Junko: And failing to explore every possibility may mean letting the real killer get away you know...

I remembered the thing Celeste said to me back when she just successfully stole from me... She never lays out all her options on the table unless she has to... So why would she be revealing all those things? Her perk, which puts her at disadvantage... Fact that she vandalized Taka’s cottage, which only makes everyone dislike her more... I think she genuinely wants us to trust her... So maybe...

Mukuro: I think we should listen to Celeste. She may be telling the truth...

Believe in one another!

Usami: No! Fighting like that is wrong... Please stop fighting over it... Here, I can help! The uh... Morphation?

Monokuma: Morphing Feature, you long eared dolt!

Usami: Oh, that’s right! Morphing Feature will help everyone decide!

Podiums started moving in familiar manner... Lining against one another as two sides were confronted. Celeste may be a liar by nature, but I do believe that this time, she is being honest... And we have to listen her out or else, we’ll all be doomed. I just have to make everyone else believe too!

Debate Scrum Start!

Question: Is Celeste lying?

Team Mukuro: No, she isn’t!

Members: Mukuro, Junko, Celeste, Kyoko, Chihiro, Makoto, Aoi, Sakura.

Team Kiyotaka: Yes, she is!

Members: Kiyotaka, Mondo, Leon, Sayaka, Toko, Syo, Byakuya, Hifumi, Yasuhiro.

Start!

Syo: The lolita goth totally killed him!

Kyoko: It’s still possible someone else had killed him.

Leon: She even disguised herself as Mukuro, right?

Junko: Just because she disguised herself doesn’t mean she was a killer.

Sayaka: Celeste did confess to being one who made the trap, right?

Makoto: But what if trap wasn’t the ultimate murder method...?

Toko: Th-there’s no one else who could have done it...

Mukuro: There are still people without alibi that could have done it.

Mondo: But she thought that note was for her!

Aoi: The note might as well be unrelated at this point!

Kiyotaka: She is a murderer! She killed Hifumi!

Celeste: I have nothing to hide now. I am being honest, I did not kill Hifumi.

Team Mukuro: This is our answer!

Break!

Mukuro: We should listen out. Even if Celeste is lying... we’ll just see that.

Celeste: I appreciate it, Mukuro.

Mondo: Fine, then let’s get this f*cking over with.

Celeste: Now, to explain exactly why I believe that my trap has somehow failed... I activated the noisemaker at precisely 11:29 AM, according to handbook. And exactly a minute later, I activated the guillotine, which was supposed to cut the rope.

Leon: Oh, I get it now! One was to lure the target closer, and a minute later boom!

Celeste: That was the plan, yes.

Toko: B-But... how does that mean that you didn’t k-kill him?!

It’s obvious, actually... The piece of evidence that supports Celeste claim, if what she’s saying is true, is...

> Monokuma File 2

Mukuro: Well, if that’s true, then... Celeste’s trap really couldn’t have been what killed Hifumi... Monokuma file clearly states that time of death was 11:27 AM.

Monokuma: And time on your handbooks and in Monokuma Files is perfectly synchronized!

Celeste: That is what I suspected. The moment I saw the Monokuma File, I knew that I was not the killer.

Kiyotaka: But.. How?!

Celeste: I do not know. This is why I confessed. I would have preferred my involvement and attempt stay hidden, obviously. But my reputation isn’t worth my life.

Toko: W-Well... that almost sounds reasonable...

Celeste: That’s because it is. The reasoning behind why I chose to try it matters little now. What matters is that I failed. And not only did I fail... I did that after someone else has succeeded. And they are still deceiving us to this very moment.

Leon: So? Who is this ‘they’?

Celeste: I do not know.

Kiyotaka: So, you don’t even have someone to accuse?!

Celeste: No. I simply leave it to those more involved with investigation now.

Mondo: sh*t, the way you say it... It makes it sound like you’re f*cking lying even more!

Kiyotaka: That’s... That’s because she is! She is lying!

Celeste: I am not. Perhaps if I explain the workings of the trap, you will see the truth?

Kiyotaka: Explain? How can you explain it?!

I am not sure of just how truthful Celeste is being... But there’s definitely some evidence of her trap failing.

Nonstop Debate Start!

Celeste: The trap consisted of a lure – the noisemaker, and the trigger – remote-controlled guillotine.

Byakuya: Does that have to be explained again?

Celeste: Hifumi was already dead when I activated the noisemaker. And definitely so by the time I activated the guillotine.

Sayaka: But... is that really possible? Wasn’t the falling chandelier definite cause of death?

Chihiro: Then... maybe it already fell before trap was activated?

Kiyotaka: That’s preposterous!

Mondo: How the sh*t does something like that even happen?

Celeste: I simply do not see another possibility myself.

Junko: Jeez, what a time you picked to go all passive...

> Chandelier

I agree with you!

Break!

Mukuro: I think Chihiro is right. One look at the chandelier itself and we will see that it was already down on the floor when rope was cut.

Leon: Huh? How can you tell that?

Syo: Is this witchcraft? Are you the dark-haired witch after all?

Mukuro: No, it’s simple deduction. Just remember how much rope there was attached!

Kyoko: About 70 feet of it or so...

Mukuro: Exactly. Enough to reach up to the ceiling.

Leon: Well, duh, how else is it supposed to be lowered otherwise if it’s not that long?

Mukuro: The length of overall rope is not the issue, but how much of it was cut. Remember, if it was near the ceiling and fell because of rope being cut...

Mondo: Then there would be barely any rope attached as it fell! Holy sh*t!

Sayaka: Oh! I see... So if it was already on the floor... Then so much rope was attached because it was cut after it fell all the way down...

Mukuro: Exactly. And it matches up with Celeste’s testimony too!

Toko: Then th-that means... she really was telling the truth?

Kiyotaka: I see... So she was not lying. However! There is another critical possibility that remains un-examined!

Junko: What is it again? Jeez, you got so much more annoying with your revenge quest...

Kiyotaka: How exactly did the chandelier fall then?

That should be simple to answer... It’s because of...

> Winch

Mukuro: It’s the winch on the first floor, on the same wall as the main entrance. When we found it, it’s brake was broken off... And it was almost entirely unwound. If that happened, the chandelier would be in free fall...

Makoto: ...and land right down in same way it would if rope was just cut!

Kyoko: Indeed. Which means, that the crime is not at all the way Celeste’s was meant to be.

Mukuro: I see... Then the truth of the crime scene is...

Logic Dive Start!

How was the chandelier dropped onto Hifumi?

> By breaking the winch brake

Where was the culprit at the time of the murder?

> Library first floor

How was Hifumi positioned under the chandelier?

> By force

I see the connections!

Break!

Mukuro: If the culprit and Hifumi both were on the first floor at the time of the murder... Then the only way Hifumi could have died is if the two had a fight. And Hifumi was just shoved under the chandelier as it was already falling...

Makoto: The culprit and Hifumi... had a fight?

Usami: Oh, how awful... friends shouldn’t fight...

Byakuya: Shut up. Stop butting in.

Kiyotaka: I see... It appears I was misunderstanding aspects of situation. I do believe truthfulness of Celeste’s words now.

Celeste: Really? Your tone seems surprisingly sardonic...

Kiyotaka: Of course! After all, the possibility of you being the culprit never disappeared!

Celeste: What? B-But I—

Junko: Actually, that’s true... You were alone on second island around the time of the murder...

Celeste: Well, yes, but I never came back to library’s first floor or confronted Hifumi directly! I told you that already!

Sayaka: Then, when exactly did you return to first island...?

Celeste: It was... about 11:25 AM, I believe, when I passed Taka on the way back.

Kiyotaka: Was it now? Or is it a fabrication?

Celeste: You... You kept a schedule! How can you not know when I passed?!

Kiyotaka: I happened to be distracted at the moment of your specific passing back!

Byakuya: Speaking of... You changed back to your clothes. After going through all the trouble of acquiring a disguise. Why such a useless waste?

Celeste: Oh, that is simple. I realized on my way there that Taka was keeping a schedule of people coming and going. At first I wanted to just avoid being accidentally seen, but with that schedule, I thought I could secure myself a perfect alibi by leaving and being seen doing so before the death could happen.

Kiyotaka: But it is possible you fabricated that time just now! To cover for yourself!

Celeste: How was I supposed to account for you being incompetent for once?

Kiyotaka: Incompetent?!

Celeste: Exactly! You were supposed to be a perfect alibi! And you failed to be both that and a crucial evidence!

Kiyotaka: All I know is that you passed me at some point beyond 11:00 AM. It could have been before or after the murder as I cannot tell for certain!

Leon: Seriously...?

Mondo: f*ck... That’s one big ball of lies...

Sayaka: Celeste might have just done everything else to distract us...

Everyone is starting to distrust Celeste again... But... For some reason... The way she is right now...

She’s scared. She’s genuine when she is pleading that she did not kill. She is afraid of what happens... And she really is trying to be honest in ways she can. I know this is risky, but... I don’t care much for my reputation either, just like her. And we can’t risk this distrust getting in the way of the deduction, not when we’re so close. I’ll... have to defend Celeste myself...

Nonstop Debate Start!

Celeste: I swear, I am not lying! I did not kill Hifumi!

Kyoko: I wish... if there was proper evidence then maybe...

Leon: Yeah, that is starting to stink.

Celeste: Please! If you don’t believe me, then we all die!

Byakuya: Is that your defense now?

Syo: Kyahahaha! Almost cute. Not quite tho!

Kiyotaka: I wish I could be more certain myself... But it’s possible you passed me after murder!

Kiyotaka: And nobody else saw you!

Chihiro: I want to believe Celeste... But...

> Kiyotaka’s Observation Schedule > My Own Observations

I’ll do what I must...

Perjury!

Mukuro: You’re wrong, Taka... I didn’t bring it up till now, because it didn’t provide a real alibi... But knowing what we know... Celeste could not have done it.

Celeste: What...? How do you know?!

Kiyotaka: Huh?!

Mukuro: I was wandering the First Island myself at certain point... And I saw Celeste entering it. She did look... concerned. I don’t think you actually noticed me.

Celeste: I... was rather on edge having prepared what I believed to be a deathtrap, yes...

Mukuro: Well, when I saw Celeste, I just decided to check the time and... it was 11:26 AM.

Kyoko: Ah... finally, the missing piece...

Byakuya: And you seriously thought it was irrelevant? How idiotic.

Junko: ...yeah, whatever, I’ll roll with that.

Makoto: Which means that Celeste does have perfect alibi!

Kiyotaka: B-But... nobody else could have... Everyone else has a perfect alibi too! With my schedule, even muddled at the end...

Byakuya: Everyone except you.

Kiyotaka: W-What?!

Chihiro: Byakuya... Are you saying Taka... and Hifumi...? But they were such close friends?

Byakuya: Friendships are irrelevant in a Killing Game. When will that get through your thick skulls?

Kyoko: I do not think Taka could have done it...

Byakuya: Then who is his alibi? Celeste saw him before murder and that’s it. More than enough time to go over to the library and commit the crime. Since he’s the one with schedule, he didn’t have to write down his own movements.

Kiyotaka: I’d—You! I never! How dare—

Mondo: Shut your pompous f*cking trap! He didn’t do sh*t!

Kiyotaka: Huh...? Mondo?

Mondo: A real man... owns up to his f*ck-ups. And this one’s all on me. I’m the one who kept you trapped on the Central Island. Road Rage is name of my perk. I can get robots to block passage for a specific person.

Kiyotaka: But... Why would you do such a thing?!

Mondo: Because it seemed fair f*cking revenge for sh*t you pulled with your rules! I didn’t do crap and you accused me and my bro! I had to get back somehow and I thought this was harmless enough.

Byakuya: This is nonsense... All of you are morons.

Mondo: Wanna say that to my face, tough guy?!

Kyoko: Not now. We have to get back to the case.

Makoto: But... We’re completely out of possible culprits, right? Nobody else was alone during the time of murder right?

Junko: Well... there’s one possibility...

Chihiro: Is there...? Haven’t we gone through everyone on Second Island...?

No... Makoto’s wrong and Junko’s right. One person and only one person had a chance to commit this crime. Person who was subtly steering the trial... Person who was alone around time of crime. The real killer... That person is...

Select a person.

Mukuro: Sayaka. When exactly did you leave the Chandler Beach?

Sayaka: Uhm... what brought that on all of a sudden?

Mukuro: Answer the question, please.

Leon: Wait, are you seriously suspecting Sayaka? Are you nuts?

Mukuro: Then maybe you or Makoto can tell me when it happened?

Makoto: Sorry... It’s hard to keep track of time when swimming.

Leon: But, like, she left... Uh, I don’t know when but announcement was soon after!

Mukuro: And how soon is ‘soon’?

Leon: Well, I—I don’t know! It’s easy to lose time when you’re having fun!

Mukuro: Sayaka. Please, tell me when you left...

Sayaka: I... I don’t know, okay! I didn’t think to check the time!

Kyoko: But Mukuro’s not wrong in her thinking. Sayaka is the only person who now has no alibi at the time of the murder...

Sayaka: W-What? Are you sure? There has to be... someone else! We’re overlooking! Let’s just all think together and—

Byakuya: Speaking of... I do feel like there’s something rather bewildering about your own behavior that could be explained with you being the killer...

Kyoko: You’re talking about what she did after discovering the body, right?

Byakuya: At least someone here catches on quick.

What was suspicious thing that Sayaka did after discovering the body... It must be...

> Alerting people at the Sports Center first

Mukuro: Sayaka went to Sports Center first thing after she discovered the body... But that is illogical!

Sayaka: What are you talking about? I had to alert as many people as I could, right?

Mukuro: Then why didn’t you just use your perk?

Sayaka: Ah!

Mukuro: Your perk makes announcements to whole island that nobody can ignore. If you just used it, everyone would be there...

Sayaka: I... I just forgot I had it! I panicked!

Junko: And if you just wanted to get people there as quickly as possible, then why wouldn’t you go and get them from the beach? That was way closer than the Sports Center?

Syo: I don’t get that one. Why? People are people, does it matter?

Mukuro: It did matter to Sayaka... Because even if she just forgot about her perk in panic, going to a place way farther away just to call more people when she had enough to trigger announcement on a close-by beach was ridiculous... Unless she was the culprit. And the two people from beach seeing it wouldn’t be enough for announcement to trigger.

Syo: Oooh! I get it now! She knew a bunch of girls and one femboy were at the sports center, so she went there to make sure many people saw body at once! Kyahaha! That’s genius!

Chihiro: Then... Since we all did see it at once... And didn’t realize it took an extra person to trigger announcement... Then Sayaka...

Sayaka: Stop it! I didn’t do anything wrong!

Kiyotaka: So... You were the one who fought Hifumi... And killed him!

Mukuro: It would appear so. I can’t think of anyone else...

Stupid-stupid-stupid!

Leon: Stupid! You’re so stupid!

Mukuro: Leon, please, we need to be logical.

Leon: I am being logical! I am logic incarnate!

Rebuttal Showdown Start!

Leon: Fought Hifumi? Get real!

Leon: Sayaka isn’t a fighter! She’s a girl!

Leon: A normal girl, I mean! Not like you or Hina!

Leon: Uh.. well, you know! Not sports girl!

Leon: There’s no way she’d physically fight him and come out unscathed!

Advance!

Mukuro: She did say she had a bump on her head, right? Maybe that was from that fight?

Leon: She just passed out on hard floor! Don’t make fun of that!

Leon: Any girl would pass out like that at a sight of something gruesome!

Leon: Plus, even if she did fight him, there’s no way she’d win!

Leon: How would she even get Hifumi into fountain? Lifting him?

Leon: I doubt even Mondo could get him off the ground!

> Syo’s Examination Results

I’ll cut through your words!

Break!

Mukuro: Leon, there’s a certain fighting move that can be used only against guys... And when used against someone unprepared, like Hifumi... It could totally stun him enough so that just a simple strong push would send him tumbling into that fountain!

Syo: Oooh! You’re talking about that kick in the nuts he got just before he died!

Kyoko: I can’t believe we’re relying on your killer’s hunch instead of forensic facts...

Syo: Get owned, detective girl!

Sayaka: I... you... this is ridiculous! I was never in the library! Stop accusing me like I’m the killer! I didn’t do anything wrong!

Celeste: Actually... there was a certain piece of evidence that you ‘found’ that I myself think is rather curious. Kyoko, could you compare the handwriting between Hifumi’s game notes and the note that I found?

Kyoko: I already have while examining both. They’re the same.

Celeste: And the other note?

The other note...? Oh, right, there’s also...

> Trash Can Note

Mukuro: This one, right?

Celeste: Indeed.

Kyoko: Hm... Well, structure of writing in general is similar, but handwriting is definitely someone else’s...

Celeste: Is it perhaps possible that culprit tried to mimic Hifumi’s writing style to accuse someone?

Toko: A m-murderous monster... They were g-going to accuse her....

Syo: Meee?! Accused of murder?! Wow, never would have expected...

Kyoko: That does seem likely.

Sayaka: W-Wait, are you saying that the note was written by me? That’s... hahaha... that’s funny! I can prove it! Easily! Just let me write something now and compare handwriting again!

Byakuya: Absolutely not. You know about the check happening, and if you’re the culprit, you might just fake the results.

Chihiro: But that note... Is only connection we have to potential true culprit, right?

Sayaka: That’s right! No decisive evidence! No proof! Nothing! This accusation is just stupid! I did nothing wrong!

Junko: Oh no, she’s breaking down...

Sayaka: You! Mukuro! You accused me... You made everyone think I’m the killer and you have no proof!

Mukuro: But the head bump you said you had, the lack of alibi, the fact that you ‘found’ the clearly fake note in the trash...

Sayaka: That’s all suspicions! Nothing calls me out on being guilty! And now you made everyone distrust me even with a simple handwriting test! It’s your fault! I did nothing wrong!

Mukuro: Yes you did! And I can prove it!

Sayaka: Shut up! I’m not guilty! I’m not the blackened! I’m not a killer!

Argument Armament Start!

I did nothing wrong!

Stop accusing me!

You just hate me, don’t you?

Stop it, stop it! I’m innocent!

Celeste is one to blame! She set the trap!

Syo! She! She’s a killer and she was invited!

What do I have to do with any of this?!

Even you are more suspicious than I am! Stop with it!

Why is nobody helping me?

You guys can tell that I’m innocent, right?!

Why?!

I did nothing wrong!

I’m not the culprit!

I’m not the blackened!

I’m not the killer!

Why am I being treated like a murderer?!

You think you figured it out!

But you have no evidence at all!

That note doesn’t put me at crime scene at all!

And you even refuse to check my handwriting!

So you have no choice but to accept!

I did nothing wrong!

Final Blow!

How in the world are you going to prove I wrote the fake note, if you don’t check my handwriting?

Sayaka’s

Beach

Party

Invitations

It all ends here!

Break!

Mukuro: We don’t need you to write anything, especially with possibility of you faking a different handwriting...

Sayaka: See? I’m not guilty!

Mukuro: Leon! You still have Sayaka’s invitation to that party, right?

Leon: Yeah, of course I do! That’s like a personal letter from a superstar idol! I may just put it in picture frame later!

Makoto: I am still sad I lost mine...

Sayaka: You... still have it... Wait, no, no-no-no...!

Leon: Huh? Sayaka?

Mukuro: Leon... give the invitation to Kyoko. Let her compare Sayaka’s older, unbiased writing with the note.

Leon: Uhm... Sure, here.

Sayaka: No-no-no-no-no!

Kyoko: ...these were written by same person...

Chihiro: But... that means Sayaka...

Celeste: So, this is the real killer then.

Sayaka: No! I’m not a killer! I did nothing wrong... I didn’t murder anyone....

Junko: Hey, Mukuro? Can you just recap it all? Maybe she’ll budge under pressure then.

Mukuro: Yeah. It’s time. It’s time to finish this...

Closing Argument Start!

This crime wasn’t originally planned by the culprit, or even supposed to involve them... It was actually a plan made by the victim. Hifumi Yamada himself. He, having discovered that Genocider Syo had killed Taka’s father, decided to get rid of her once and for all, sending her a note and inviting her to meet with him in the library. He also brought a decorated hammer with him, a weapon to use against his target.

However, when Genocider Syo discovered the note, she simply tossed it away and completely ignored it. Instead the person who actually received the note ended up being Celeste... And unlike Syo, she was feeling threatened enough to take action of her own. Creating a plan to kill the person who sent the note instead.

Celeste proceeded to carry out her plan. She used her perk to guarantee the toys she needed for her idea. She also tricked me into leaving her alone in my cottage, allowing her to steal my clothes. Then all she did was disguise herself as me, and go to the library, to set the simple trap that would lure the victim before dropping a Chandelier on them.

On her way there she also saw Taka noting down everyone passing by Central Island... And her plan changed on fly. He would become her perfect alibi. So when she was leaving the island, she changed back and left as ‘herself’. And soon after leaving she triggered the trap. What she didn’t know at the time, that it was pointless... The noisemaker has already been broken and the chandelier already fell... And Hifumi was dead.

That brings us to what really happened. The real culprit. The culprit who simply happened to enter the library while on their was from Chandler Beach to the Pharmacy. There they confronted Hifumi, and I assume figured out what he was doing there with the hammer. The two had a fight, and during it... The brake on the winch holding up the chandelier was broken off. And at the same time, Hifumi was stunned with a dirty move, before being pushed into the fountain. That ensured that by the end of it, he was crushed.

The culprit however, was probably not prepared for this turn of events. They needed a way out of this, so they decided to try and plant fake evidence, leaving behind a fake note that they imagined Hifumi would send his own planned victim, as well. They also deliberately alerted the people at the Sports Center, and didn’t use their perk or go to Chandler Beach... because if they did do so, then the body discovery announcement wouldn’t trigger and they would be exposed immediately.

The only person without alibi... And person who would even go through those motions... It could only be you, Sayaka Maizono, the Ultimate Pop Sensation. You’re the blackened, no matter how much you keep denying it!

Break!

Mukuro: There... Does that make it clear enough?

Kiyotaka: But... why? Sayaka! Why would you do something like that?

Sayaka: I didn’t do... anything wrong... I’m not a killer... I’m not...

Byakuya: You keep saying that. And yet not once did you deny causing his death, did you?

Aoi: Huh? She keeps saying she’s not a killer even when exposed...

Sayaka: I’m not... I didn’t mean to... Damn it! It’s his fault, not mine! It’s all his fault!

Monokuma: Woah-woah! Hold it up! Save that for after trial is concluded. Speaking of conclusions, it’s time for the most thrilling part! Voting time!

Usami: Please make sure to vote! I’d hate to have to punish anyone who doesn’t... But I would have no choice...

Monokuma: Will you make the right choice...

Usami: Yes! They’ll get it right! Because they worked together!

Monokuma: Awh, my catchphrase...

Then the voting screens lit up again. Without hesitation I voted. Even if Sayaka still refused to admit it... There’s nobody else it could have been. After a few moments, the big screen came down... Thirteen votes for Sayaka. Single vote for Celeste...

Usami: Oh, I’m so sorry, Sayaka... but they were correct! So it’s good for the most... Uwah, staying positive at times like this is hard...

Monokuma: Well, you bastards got it right again!

Sayaka: I... didn’t do... anything wrong...

Trial End.

Sayaka looked like a broken doll. She was in tears, shaking and shivering, clutching her shoulders.

Kiyotaka: Sayaka... Why?! Why of all people an upstanding person like you? Why would you kill him?

Kyoko: I doubt it had to do with original motive, that’s certain...

Sayaka: Why? WHY?! You wanna know why, huh?!

Celeste: Yes, we would like to actually know what truly happened.

Sayaka: It wasn’t my fault! I didn’t mean to! That’s what happened!

Syo: Come on, give us the juicy deets!

Sayaka: Fine! Not that it matters anymore...

***

I was just walking past the library... But the door was half-open and I heard an exasperated groan from inside. I thought to just come in and check when...

Bonk!

Hifumi: Ah-! Miss Maizono! I’m so sorry! Good thing I held back last moment!

I was hit on the head with something! And Hifumi tossed that something aside as he rushed to support me... I didn’t pass out thankfully. But I did realize immediately what was happening...

Sayaka: Hifumi... You... were ambushing someone?

Hifumi: Oh... You realized, huh...

Sayaka: No, don’t tell me... you... are planning a murder!

Hifumi: Miss Maizono, wait, please!

Sayaka: I should—I should tell everyone!

Hifumi: No, please, you can’t! Just listen me out first at least? I swear, I have a plan!

Sayaka: What plan?!

Hifumi: We need to get rid of Genocider Syo somehow! She’s... she’s a monstrous murderer! We can’t have her just running about!

Sayaka: And that’s who this trap is for? But if you kill someone, then—

Hifumi: I had a plan for that too! I would simply bury the body!

Sayaka: What?

Hifumi: If nobody discovers the body... Announcement will never get triggered. And I will just tell everyone the truth once it’s fully hidden! That way we get rid of that fiend, while I remain safe!

Sayaka: That... That is insane!

Hifumi: Huh? Miss Maizono, please, trust me, my plan is absolutely—

Sayaka: Killing someone like that is wrong! She... She may be a killer but... No! I... I have to tell everyone...

Hifumi: I see... In that case, Miss Maizono... I’ll just need you to stay quiet for a little while... At least until after I’m done...

Sayaka: What are you doing? No! Stay back!

I backed off but hit the wall... and Hifumi was approaching as he reached his hands for me. Then something inside me just... clicked. I feared for my life. Only in retrospect did I realize that he was simply trying to subdue me, not hurt or grope... But at the time I thought I would die. So I fought back like that... At some point I hit the winch beside me, but I didn’t even realize it... And then I saw my way out. I kicked Hifumi between legs and shoved him with all my strength, sending him tumbling back, as without balance he swayed all the way until he hit the fountain... And moment after...

CRASHSLCH!

...I was shocked. I didn’t even realize that the chandelier was falling when I pushed him. And yet I did push him into his death... First thing I did after it happened was throw up...

***

Sayaka: And... you figured the rest out by now...

Makoto: So... it was an accident?

Kiyotaka: Why would you ever feel threatened to death by Hifumi? He’s perfectly innocent!

Junko: Uh, that perfectly innocent guy was literally about to murder a bitch himself. I get why someone would be scared like that.

Sayaka: Plus, when someone that large approaches you with hands like that... I was... I didn’t mean to! I didn’t do anything wrong!

Leon: sh*t... that’s awful! Can’t we do anything about it?

Mukuro: It was... self-defense. Or at least, perceived one. I see...

Celeste: If you are truly sorry, though... Then why did you cover up your crime instead of confessing it?

Mondo: Yeah, we would all be goners if we didn’t find you out!

Sayaka: W-What? Do you seriously expect me... to just keel over and accept my death, huh?

Aoi: What...?

Chihiro: Sayaka...

Junko: Here it comes.

Sayaka: Of course not! I wasn’t about to just die! I know what happens to blackened! I didn’t want to go through that! So I... I... I had to do what I did to try and live! To survive! I just didn’t want to die!

Byakuya: And yet, here you are.

Sayaka: Shut up! And you all, stop staring at me like that! Would you do anything different, huh?! Would you just give up your life if you accidentally killed someone? Would you?! WOULD YOU?!

To that nobody had an answer... Even the more innocent ones like Aoi and Makoto seemed completely stumped by her question...

Celeste: ...I understand you. I did what I did for similar reasons, after all.

Sayaka: Understand... Understand? You understand nothing! I’m about to get killed! Right here and now!

Aoi: Sayaka... I’m so sorry...

Sayaka: I... I have an idea... I might just live... if I do this!

Shk!

Suddenly Sayaka reaches inside her uniform and takes out a small knife... I reacted in time but was out of position. I had no way of reaching her before she—

Then there she was, behind Hina, with the blade held to her neck... Aoi looked scared, and Sayaka... she looked both terrified and terrifying...

Sayaka: You’re not taking me!

Aoi: S-Sayaka...?

Mukuro: Are you crazy? What are you doing?!

Sayaka: You can only execute me and not her! That’s the rules! Right? RIGHT?!

Monokuma: Well... yes...

Sayaka: Hahahah... Then let me go! Because while I’m holding her... You won’t be able to get me alone!

Kyoko: Sayaka, stop this!

Toko: She’s g-gone full nuts!

Celeste: She is simply clinging to her life at all costs.

Sayaka: Didn’t you hear me?! I want a way off this island! Now!

Usami: But... we can’t provide it...

Sayaka: Don’t lie!

Leon: Sayaka, please! This is insane!

Makoto: Hina did nothing wrong... Please let her go!

Sayaka: I... I can’t! I don’t want to die! I don’t... want to...

She hesitated, lowering her blade for a moment... and the moment she did.

Sayaka: Ackh!

Kyoko rushed in, knocking Sayaka back and grabbing Hina, dragging her off... Sayaka’s blade clinked as it went sliding away across the floor...

Monokuma: Oh, that solves that then.

And as Sayaka was free, chains came down from somewhere, binding her wrists and neck. She writhed against them, screaming at the top of her lungs...

Sayaka: NO! No! Let me go! Please! I don’t want to die! I’ll do anything!

Junko: Hey, you okay...?

Aoi: Yeah... I’m fine...

Syo: Wow, and you guys call ME the crazy one!

Monokuma: Now then, I’ve prepared a very special punishment for Sayaka Maizono, the Ultimate Pop Sensation!

Sayaka: No! Please! I beg of you! Anything!

Usami: I wish... I wish I could change this...

Chihiro: This is horrible...

Monokuma: Let’s give it everything we’ve got!

Sayaka: Nononononononono!

Celeste: I am sorry for what you are about to go through.

Mondo: sh*t! I can’t watch a girl struggle like that!

Makoto: No, Sayaka!

Monokuma: It’s punishment time!

Sayaka: No! I don’t want to die! Please! Let me live! I don’t want to die! I DON’T WANT TO DIE!

Sayaka has been found guilty!

Time for punishment!

***

For the Fans~

Ultimate Pop Sensation Sayaka Maizono's Execution: Executed

Sayaka is on stage, held in place by chains. Behind her a stage assembles for what seems to be an idol performance with one final prop being put in place... A giant score meter. As the assembly is finished, Sayaka is let go of as chains retract. But the moment they are... She rushes forward and jumps off the stage and into empty audience area of a giant concert hall. Suddenly the meter behind her beeps... Before sliding away. And where Sayaka was just standing, from the floor, raises a cardboard version of her.

On the other end of concert hall double doors swing wide open, with green Exit sign lighting up among them. Sayaka starts running towards it... As behind her, a recording of her own starts playing, while cardboard Sayaka sways from side to side as she is singing. And the moment music starts, the place gets flooded with countless Monokumas, all holding up various signs in support of Sayaka, declaring love for her, some even wearing cosplay of her!

And they all ignore the real Sayaka, instead rushing towards the stage with cardboard Sayaka... Real Sayaka has to fight against the current of giant Monokuma crowd to try and make her way to exit, as they all act as if she doesn’t exist, knocking her side to side until suddenly she trips and falls down...

Sayaka struggles to get up, but crowd doesn’t care for her. Monokumas kick her, stomp her, push her, all while trying to get to the fake Sayaka on the stage... Eventually, it’s impossible to see the Real Sayaka in the sea of black and white, with how thick the crowd has got.

The concert only lasts one song... And once its over, the fake Sayaka is retracted back into the floor, while the ‘fans’ all leave through that exit. As last Monokuma leaves, the doors shut and the sign’s light dims.

The only thing left in the entire concert hall, on the floor in the middle of audience area, is trampled, broken, body of Sayaka... Completely unmoving.

***

Monokuma: Ah, they say love blinds... I guess her fans were too blind to see her!

Usami: Stop it! It was all you!

Monokuma: Aw, shucks, you found me out... Well, either way... I think we’re done here, right?

Usami: Hey, you forced me to control that cardboard cutout! I had no choice!

Monokuma: Yep, because executions are part of the rules!

Usami: That’s so horrible... Everyone, you should go to your cottages and get some rest! This was an awful day, but I’m sure it will get better!

Monokuma: Well, with that all done and sealed, I kind of agree!

With that, both mascots disappear. Leaving us all in state of shock...

Leon: Sayaka... she’s really dead...

Kiyotaka: You!

Taka was pointing both his hands and Syo and Celeste...

Kiyotaka: You two are to blame for this!

Syo: Uh, how am I to blame for this exactly? I’m the only one here who was smart enough to not fall into obvious trap, apparently! Kyahahaha!

Kiyotaka: But... the motive! My father! If that is true then—

Syo: I don’t even remember killing any police officers! Sure, men in uniform can be fun, but I’ve yet to go that far in kink territory... Kyahaha!

Toko: Y-You’re depraved...

Celeste: I wonder how exactly I’m at fault here as well.

Kiyotaka: Well, Genocider may have only been tangentially related, but you... You’re the one who actually tried to kill Hifumi!

Celeste: Yes. And I regret it.

Byakuya: She says with flat tone.

Celeste: Yes.

Kiyotaka: But... If you didn’t try it, then—

Celeste: It would have been the same.

Kiyotaka: Huh?

Celeste: If I did same thing Syo did and ignored the note, Hifumi would still have gone to library and Sayaka would still be attacked and would have ended up killing him. My involvement made case harder to solve, to be sure, but... It did not affect the outcome.

Kiyotaka: But... but... someone has to bear the blame! Hifumi was trying to do the right thing! Sayaka was simply scared! And if you two aren’t either, then...

Makoto: It’s Monokuma.

Kiyotaka: Huh?

Makoto: He’s the one who put in that motive... Remember, Usami mentioned Monokuma only put in secrets, right?

Chihiro: Yeah, and death of close one... sounds like something Monokuma would try to do...

Makoto: Monokuma is trying to force us into killing one another. And with both Hifumi and Celeste... It worked! We can’t let that continue!

Kyoko: No. There’s someone else to blame.

Mondo: Huh? f*ckin’ who?

Kyoko: Myself. I’ve been taking my leadership duty way too lightly. And I let things slip past. Hifumi finding extra motive. Syo receiving the note. Celeste being shunned. If I noticed these details and acted...

Byakuya: Please. As if anyone would be able to keep this gaggle of idiots cohesive.

Leon: Shut up!

Aoi: Everyone stop fighting and blaming one another! Can we just go back to cottages already?!

Junko: Finally, something smart is said.

Mukuro: Hey, Aoi... You alright...?

Aoi: I’m fine... Let’s just go...

Kyoko: Sigh... yeah. We all need to rest after this...

With that, all of us boarded the elevator that took us back to the surface... It was nearing night, so we just went to sleep, exhausted.

***

Chapter 2 – End

Surviving Students – 13

Gift Received – Idol’s Pink Bow

***

Jabberwock Park

Usami: Are you sure this was the right move? Doing what you did?

???: ...

Usami: I know... And it did cause a death to happen... But Monokuma, he—

???: ...

Usami: I see... I’m sorry I can’t be of more help... the rules are so binding!

???: ...?

Usami: I’m trying my best to maintain control! You can trust me with this one!

???: ...

Usami: I’ll come up with something. You just hang on tight!

???: ...

Usami: Uwah... I’ll try...

Usami: For the sake of bright future... And to prevent the resurrection of Ultimate Despair...

Chapter 17: Chapter 3 – Lost in Mourning Fever – Daily Life 1

Chapter Text

Chapter 3 – Lost in Mourning Fever – Daily Life

Ding Dong Bing Bong!

Monokuma: Attention! This is a school trip announcement. Good morning, everyone! It is now 8 AM! Get ready for another beautiful day of this killing school trip!

Click!

Lonely jogging isn’t that fun... But Aoi needed the rest. Still... I should at least try to get her to exercise with me again another day.

***

Hotel Restaurant

Mood was bleak, as expected. At least everyone was present... Although everyone was also eating in silence. I sat down beside Junko.

Junko: Man, this is a bummer of a morning. Everyone’s so damn glum.

Mukuro: It makes sense though... Almost everyone had something bad happen last trial. Taka, Makoto and Leon lost friends, Mondo, Kyoko and Celeste are all feeling guilty over what happened, Aoi just got taken hostage and Chihiro is always sensitive like that.

Junko: Damn... And those two aren’t biggest rays of sunshine in general, huh...

She motioned to Byakuya and Toko.

Mukuro: Yeah. I guess Syo’s the only one still in the high spirits.

Junko: Well, this needs to have something done about it.

Mukuro: Just let people deal with their feelings, Junko.

Junko: But I’m bored! I mean, sure, kinda sucks to lose people, but, like... This is unacceptable! Where’s the drive, where’s the spirit, where’s the energy? Everyone just sitting, eating silently and looking defeated is just, ugh!

Mukuro: Stop being so restless.

Junko: Easy for you to say, meathead. Do you think I didn’t notice those morning exercises you’ve been having on your own?

Mukuro: It’s just my routine. It feels natural to do that.

Then, suddenly, Monokuma was there, making an announcement.

Monokuma: Congratulations, everyone! You’ve caught another killer and beat another trial! Doesn’t that feel great?

Makoto: Of course not! Sayaka, she... She was innocent! It was just an accident!

Monokuma: Oh, you know what they say, accidents are not accidental and all. Come on, one of you must be happy about the outcome! Miss Detective, surely you’re glad to solve a mystery?

Kyoko: I’m still no closer to the answers that I’m truly looking for. And just because I got an answer doesn’t mean I should be happy about what answer is.

Monokuma: Seriously, what’s with the mood? None of you are satisfied? The mystery girl isn’t happy to lose a romantic rival? Gym bros not happy to get rid of a nerd? Togami not happy to see another death happen?

Mukuro: I—She wasn’t a rival! You don’t know what you’re talking about!

Mondo: Who the f*ck would be happy about someone dying?! Sure, he was gross, but that’s still f*cking wrong!

Leon: Yeah, why the hell would either of us be happy about it?

Byakuya: I don’t particularly care either way. I have my own concerns. So stop the annoyance and tell us what you really came here to say.

Monokuma: Awh... And here I thought at least someone is happy...

Syo: Well, I sure am!

Monokuma: You’re always happy, you creep! That doesn’t count!

Syo: Oooh, the bear can’t handle my eternal positive energy! Kyahahaha!

Monokuma: Anyway, I just wanted to congratulate you on a new island being permitted! I have some things in mind, and you’ll totally need it for what’s coming soon.... Puhuhuhu...

Chihiro: What... What is coming soon...?

Monokuma: Oh, you’ll see, unless Usami tattles first. Anyway, enjoy the exploration!

And he disappears... As usual. Damn thing.

Leon: So... what now?

Toko: M-Maybe that island has a way to escape...?

Kyoko: I doubt it. Still... We have to check it out.

Kiyotaka: Class President! What about the more dangerous members of our group? Will you be overseeing both of them now?

Syo: Both? Do I get a bestie in crime?

Celeste: ...I understand your concern considering my actions prior to last trial. However, I think everyone would agree that me attempting anything with everyone’s suspicion would be foolish at best and suicidal at worst, no?

Mondo: It sure f*ckin’ would... Damn... I’m never using my f*cking perk again. It’s useless anyway.

Kyoko: ...no. Syo, that applies to you too.

Syo: Whaaat?!

Byakuya: You can’t be serious.

Kyoko: I’ve had enough of this babysitting duty. If last few days constantly being around her showed me anything, it’s that her dedication to both her murder method and to surviving the Killing Game are unquestionable. Within obvious decency, you are free to move as you choose now.

Syo: Oh, finally, the terrible probation period is over! Time to go out into the world as totally reformed ex-serial killer! Kyahahahaha!

Byakuya: Do you even—That’s idiotic!

Kyoko: What’s wrong, Byakuya?

Byakuya: ...

He almost looked angry... No, frustrated? Condescension in his expression was always present, so it’s hard to say.

Kiyotaka: I see, Syo is not an active threat. However, Celeste—

Kyoko: Are you questioning my choice? I said I’m done babysitting anyone. If Celeste is stupid enough to try to kill again, she will either end up like Hifumi or Sayaka.

Celeste: And neither is fate I myself find desirable.

Kiyotaka: But—

Kyoko: I said what I wanted to say.

Aoi: ...yeah... I think Celeste is really sorry for what she did too...

Kiyotaka: Hah! As if remorse is within dictionary of such person!

Leon: Dude, I get that you’re mad, but no need to be so antagonistic yourself!

Kiyotaka: I will not be lectured on moral high grounds by a slacker!

Kyoko: That’s enough.

Celeste: ...Both of you are correct. Hina, Taka...

Chihiro: But... they said opposite things, didn’t they?

Celeste: I’m... not used to this. Every choice I made in my life was with absolute certainty, every gamble would surely pay off. But this time... not only it didn’t, but I came close to death myself. I’m not sure how to describe the feeling I have... But neither Sayaka’s nor Hifumi’s death feel cathartic or even ignorable...

Junko: Looks like fear of death has awoken someone’s dead conscience... Mukuro, please strangle me if I ever get like that.

Mukuro: I’ll elect to let you suffer through it instead.

Makoto: Come on, you two! Celeste is trying to be sincere!

Kyoko: Regardless. Taka. I have made the decision. If group as a whole feels me unfit to lead anymore, they can say so. But you were the one who suggested the leader be chosen.

Kiyotaka: I—Fine. It appears I will just have to work extra hard to compensate for increase of danger around the island!

Kyoko: If I hear about you harassing either Celeste or Syo, I will find a way to enforce discipline.

Kiyotaka: Harassment is not something I would ever even let happen, much less participate in!

Kyoko: Good. Then we should proceed to the Third Island.

Toko: F-Finally...

Junko: Exploration time! Wooo... so totally-exciting-and-not-at-all-boring...

***

Hospital

Third Island... Looked arid and suburban. Abandoned living buildings, shops... All empty. Only a few buildings were worth properly checking... This hospital is one of them. Generally a regular hospital building. Even has three rooms for patients, upstairs staff bedroom and storage... But what interested me more was the rules in the lobby.

Hospital Rules:

1. Everyone is permitted to visit and take care of patients during the day, however overnight stays are only allowed for one non-patient staying in the staff bedroom.

2. Visiting during nighttime is not allowed, and if more than one non-patient enters the hospital, they will be punished.

3. Only physically sick or hurt people are allowed to be admitted as patients, and must be evicted within a day of reaching healthy condition.

4. Administering medical help cannot be used to make someone the blackened, as long as there is no intent to harm the patient. If someone dies due to malpractice or insufficient medical skills, person administering aid is not considered at fault, unless they caused the injury in the first place.

5. These rules are considered final and cannot be revised.

Byakuya: Seems pretty specific, doesn’t it?

I looked around... Other than me and him, Toko and Syo were also in the room, but both standing aside and intently staring at Byakuya, while throwing glances at each other...

Mukuro: Are you... asking me?

Byakuya: No, the sign. Who else?

Mukuro: Ugh... Yeah, it does. The visitation, and the whole... Rule four...

Byakuya: The Good Samaritan rule. Wouldn’t expect one here.

Mukuro: Yeah, that’s the word I was looking for... It is surprising that they’d include one, and so exhaustively... Probably one of Usami’s compromises.

Byakuya: And here I thought to entertain the idea of you being a worthwhile time spending... Do you seriously believe them not to be one and the same?

Mukuro: No. I do not.

Byakuya: Hmph. Well, either way I’m done here.

Syo: Ooh, where to next, then~?

Toko: Shut up! S-Stop following Master around!

Syo: Says one who started following him first!

The best way I could describe look on Byakuya’s face as he observed the exchange was someone trying very desperately not to react to blackboard being scratched. Without saying another word, he simply went for the exit, which shut the two girls up, making them push each other aside as they hurried after him. ...It can’t be what I’m thinking, can it...?

***

Ultimate Detective’s Lab

The hospital was outfitted rather well. On first floor, there were four patient rooms and an emergency room. On the second there was staff bedroom, a storage room with various stuff and... morgue. Which appears to be doubling as The Ultimate Detective’s Lab.

Inside was... Grim. Room was dimly lit, other than extremely uncomfortable looking metal table in the very middle, shined on by bright light. There was also a desk on the other end of room, with simple lamp, though rather dim. Beside desk there were shelves with countless files and drawers... And on the right side of the room I could see a different kind of storage. Huge, metal drawers embedded in the wall. With large labels... I approached closely, and the moment I saw one of them, I felt a shiver...

“Maizono.”

...this must be...

Kyoko: This is where the bodies are kept after the death.

Mukuro: Gah!

I instantly spin around, raising my leg up in a kick to try to hit whoever snuck up on me... But miss. Thankfully. Because it’s only moments later that I realize it was Kyoko... Good thing she managed to dodge out of the way, even if narrowly...

Kyoko: Gh... What’s this about?

Mukuro: Ah! I’m sorry! It was just a reflex...

Kyoko: ...what kind of reflexes must one have to attempt a roundhouse kick when surprised from behind?

Mukuro: I’m... not sure.

Kyoko: I suppose my dark clothes make it hard to see me in the dim lighting. I should be the one apologizing here.

Mukuro: It’s alright... Anyway, this is your lab?

Kyoko: Yes. And it appears to be a coroner’s office. Disgustingly fitting... Considering I specialize in murders...

Mukuro: So, the bodies...

Kyoko: They’re really there. I verified all of their identities.

Mukuro: Wait, you looked? But that means... Hifumi’s and Sakura’s bodies...

Kyoko: Weren’t in the best state, as we all saw. But I had to make sure.

Mukuro: I see...

Kyoko: There are also a bunch of old case files. Some even rather familiar...

Mukuro: I guess that makes sense for a detective.

Kyoko: It does. I will stay and read them in more depth for now. We will reconvene as usual later.

Mukuro: Alright, I’ll go check out the other places myself then.

***

Movie Theater

Apparently, I arrived at Movie Theater just moments after Junko and Makoto did...

Monokuma: Oh, more viewers, how wonderful! Welcome, welcome and hurry to the viewing area! The next run of my movie begins in a few moments!

Usami: Yes! It’s so good to see Monokuma find non-violent and non-murder-motive-based creativity outlets! Even if they come at my expense...

Mukuro: Uh... What’s going on?

Monokuma: Come on! I made a wonderful animated feature! The Wizard of Usami! Get in the theater and enjoy!

Junko: Eh, can’t be more boring than the empty music venue...

Makoto: Uh... sure...?

Mukuro: I guess?

Monokuma: Then... here!

Monokuma handed each of us a ticket, with our names and today’s date...

Monokuma: Now, in, in! You’ve already missed the trailers!

***

The Wizard of Usami

We were seated in the otherwise empty theater as screen lit up. Junko also procured popcorn from somewhere and was already loudly chewing...

Narrator: Monokuma was born in a remote village, full of old people, because they were bad parents and were abandoned by their children.

Narrator: One day, a tornado from a rogue podcast filming drone camera picked Monokuma up and whisked him away to Usami’s land.

Narrator: There Monokuma met three wonderful friends.

Narrator: First, Monokuma met Usami Scarecrow. She had no brain, so when he asked her to kill herself, she did and hung herself.

Narrator: Then, Monokuma met Usami Woodsman. She had no heart, so Monokuma, took her apart in pieces to make sure.

Narrator: And lastly, Monokuma met Usami Lion. She had no courage, so just for fun, Monokuma pinned her to a tree with sharp knives.

Narrator: Eventually, Monokuma arrived to the big green city, and met Usami Wizard.

Narrator: Deciding that Usami Wizard sucks, he simply beat her up and let her starve to death in the dungeon.

Narrator: After taking over the big green city, Monokuma took all the riches of it and returned home, so he could again scam old people into signing unfavorable inheritance contacts.

Narrator: The End.

***

Movie Theater

...

Makoto: ...huh. That’s it I guess...

Junko: Sister... Please... I beg you...

I turned to look at Junko... She was pleading with tears in her eyes.

Junko: Please... one final mercy... This was... so horrendous... I can’t go on...

Mukuro: ...go bend yourself. You wouldn’t mercy-kill me if roles were reversed.

Junko: Well, sure, I would leave you to suffer, but c’mon, be the better person or whatnot!

Mukuro: Junko, I’m not killing you. This was absolutely awful, but not awful enough to be executed over it.

Junko: Hm... Hey, Makoto, feel like getting a double-kill? That’s within Monokuma’s limits, right?

Makoto: What? Wait, a-are you two serious?! I mean, the movie was weird, but, I’d never!

Junko: Sigh... Guess I’ll have to live with memory of this pain forever.

Mukuro: Life is pain.

Junko: True!

Makoto: You two—What’s wrong with you?!

Junko: This is the price you pay for being smarter than others... Dark price of genius...

Mukuro: Stop being pretentious. It doesn’t suit you.

Junko: I’m not wrong though!

Mukuro: ...yeah, you aren’t.

Makoto: W-What? I don’t understand...

Junko: Well, Mukuro may be a slow little dummy compared to me, but both of us were way above the norm since early childhood. The genius sisters!

Mukuro: Geniuses that very quickly just got bored of most things.

Junko: Yeah, you know it! When everything comes so easy, nothing is interesting you know. And what’s the point of living in world of boredom?

Makoto: That’s awful... I’m sorry that happened to you two, but that’s not a reason to give up living on a whim!

Junko: Oh come on, we were just playing around just now.

Mukuro: Yeah. If push came to shove, I’d absolutely mercy-kill you, Junko.

Junko: Awh... You’re gonna give me diabetes!

Makoto: Girls!

Junko: Ugh, stick in the mud. Whatever, fine, no more talk of death.

Mukuro: But the part about our childhood is true. It got to the point where we were only looking for new sources of excitement. Hey, Junko, remember?

Junko: Oh, that stupid game? ‘Despair Sisters’? God, we were such cringy kids. That was such a stupid name too.

Makoto: Does that mean... you’re past that now?

Junko: Nope.

Mukuro: I dunno. Probably not?

Makoto: But... you seem so normal! When you’re not talking about killing one-another.

Junko: Eh, some things you learn to live with, be it an idiot sister or chronic boredom. Hey, I never stopped looking for new sources of stimulation. There’s definitely a lot to find when you actually bother trying to look!

Mukuro: I’m glad you managed well, Junko. I wish I remembered how well I fared myself...

Smack! Ow... She just slapped me on the back of the head.

Junko: Hey! Only I’m allowed to treat you like trash.

Mukuro: I’m supposed to be older you know...

Junko: You rushed out of womb a few minutes earlier yet clearly that just resulted in you being undercooked. We’re twins, it doesn’t matter! I’m still the better sister.

Update! Earned Junko’s 4th Hope Fragment.

Junko: Anyway, I’m off to keep exploring on my own. See you around, slowpoke dorks!

Not even, giving us a chance to say goodbye, she ran out of the theater. I could see Monokuma sulking in the corner, probably in reaction to our post-viewing talk... Well, let’s not poke the resting bear.

Mukuro: I’ll go keep exploring too. What about you, Makoto?

Makoto: I will just check this place in more detail... Just please tell me you were kidding about killing Junko?

Mukuro: ...sure. I will tell you that.

Makoto: Phew... Thanks, I was actually worried there for a second. See you around then!

He’s like a kitten. An innocent kitten.

***

Electric Avenue

At first this place, a series of small electronic stores with various specific machinery seemed promising. But anything actually useful like phones, TVs or computers was just fake plastic molds. Well, at least we have a huge supply of fridges, washing machines and microwaves if we ever need them... And at the dead end of the street, there was another suspicious thing. Right in front of a large garage, there was a terminal... an active one.

I looked at the screen and it simply said, ‘Observer Contact Point Gamma – Connection Lost’. And trying to hit the keys of the keyboard... no effect. Huh...

Mondo: Whatever that thing is, it doesn’t work. f*ckin’ junk...

Mukuro: Any idea what it could be for?

Mondo: No f*ckin’ idea.

Aoi: Well... It did seem like it was used before we got here...

Mondo: Oh yeah, right, the screen is covered in dust, but also freshly wiped, I think...

I looked more closely... And they were right. There was a sign of screen having been recently wiped with a palm.

Mukuro: Do you guys think somebody tried to use it before we got here?

Aoi: ...I don’t know...

Mondo: I swear, if someone botched our chances at escape, I’ll cave their skull in!

Mukuro: Well, nothing we can do now. Anything else of note here?

Aoi: Not much... Just appliances and Mondo’s lab...

Mondo: Oh yeah! Hey, check this sh*t out!

With that Mondo grabbed the bottom of the garage door, rising it up... To reveal a huge area inside. It was... a bike shop. A variety of motorcycles on display, and a ton of tools and spare parts on shelves, in boxes... I didn’t even notice it at first, but beside the garage door there was a plaque, which made sense in retrospect. Ultimate Biker Gang Leader’s Lab.

Mondo: This place is a f*ckin’ dream. I wish I could bring the boys here...

Aoi: Wouldn’t it make more sense to bring this place to the boys? Since...

Mondo: sh*t, well... You know what I meant!

Mukuro: Huh... Are they functional?

Mondo: You f*ckin’ betcha! And with roads around the islands, I could totally go ridin’ again! Could give you girls a ride too and all.

Aoi: Uh... Thanks, but I don’t think it’s a good idea.

Mukuro: Yeah, I still need to check out the rest of the island myself.

Mondo: Oh... Well, I’m always down to ride with some cool chicks!

Mukuro: Gotcha. By the way, Aoi... are you feeling alright?

Aoi: Huh? No, I’m totally fine!

Mukuro: You seem to be a bit... unenergetic.

Aoi: I just had a bit of a hard time sleeping is all. And I was sad but! I’ve just eaten my worries away with donuts! This perk was totally made for me!

She quickly tapped her handbook... And out of nowhere Monokuma strolled close with frustrated expression, tossed a box of donuts on the ground and grumbling something left...

Aoi: ...he seems annoyed that I keep ordering so much, but it’s my right, you know?

Mukuro: Well, have a good meal then... I will go see what else is around.

Aoi: Sure! See you, Mukuro!

Mondo: Yeah! Don’t forget about the invite!

***

Motel

A motel... Why? We already have our sleeping quarters in the Mirai Hotel. I get why there would be beds in the Hospital, but here...? What’s the point?

Chihiro: Hey, Mukuro. Good morning.

Mukuro: Good morning, Chihiro. How are you doing?

Chihiro: I’m fine... I just still can’t believe that both Hifumi and Sayaka are gone...

Mukuro: Yeah... It’s tragic...

Chihiro: I just... feel like if I’ve only done more... Maybe they could still be around...

Mukuro: Come now, it’s not your fault... It was just an accident after all. There’s nothing anyone could have done about it.

Chihiro: Yes, but... It was an accident born out of a murder plot. Maybe if I was stronger... If I revealed myself sooner and didn’t fall apart like I did when we were playing the game... Maybe I could have noticed something off before Hifumi...

Mukuro: Chihiro, please. It’s not your fault at all. And, well... There’s nothing we can do but keep moving now. What happened, happened. Death isn’t something you can undo.

Chihiro: I guess you’re right...

Mukuro: Hey, do you know how Taka is handling it?

Chihiro: Well... He was pretty quiet when we were checking out the rooms here together. He left just before you arrived.

Mukuro: I see. I was worried that after morning’s remarks, he’d try to go after Celeste...

Chihiro: I hope not... And, well, if I had to describe it in one word... He seems lost.

Mukuro: Lost?

Chihiro: I mean... It’s clear that he just has no idea what to do now, so he just tries to do things that always worked for him before. I... know how it feels to just fall into usual habit when you’re uncertain.

Mukuro: I see... Is it related to the whole... you know?

Chihiro nodded in response, his expression growing sadder.

Chihiro: I didn’t want to keep this secret so long... But it almost worked too well at first, pretending to be a girl... So every time I thought about trying to be myself I wanted to be... I was so scared of people’s disappointment, that I just kept lying... Because it’s something that worked...

Mukuro: I’m sorry to hear. At least you escaped the bullying...

Chihiro: ...sometimes I wish I didn’t... All the lies I surrounded myself with just make me forget who I am supposed to be.

Mukuro: Well, now it’s out and you don’t have to pretend anymore, right? That’s what is important.

Chihiro: Yes, right. But! That’s why I’m certain that I can understand both Taka and Celeste... And I want to help them. To make sure no more deaths happen.

Update! Earned Chihiro’s 3rd Hope Fragment.

Mukuro: I see. Well, I’ll keep that in mind.

Chihiro: Mhm! I don’t think there’s anything special about motel... But we could stay here if we need.

Mukuro: Got it. I’ll check out other places for now.

Chihiro: I’ll stay here for the moment, in case something else happens... And thanks, Mukuro.

***

Music Venue

Titty Typhoon. Real mature here, Monokuma. Or Usami. Whichever of you came up with it. Probably Monokuma... Even inside looked fitting to the name. Dingy, half-decorated, with only bright parts being the large glowing signs. Lights hanging from the ceiling, a disco ball that looked old and scuffed, a stage that seemed like it wasn’t even part of building but just built in it. There were also two doors, one bearing a familiar plaque.

Celeste: Such an unrefined place, wouldn’t you agree?

Mukuro: Yeah... It looks like it’s just a warehouse that was refurbished into a music venue.

Leon: Oh, come on, it’s not that bad. It’s just got that special ‘underground’ atmosphere to it!

Celeste: Hm. Perhaps. It still ill-suits my personal tastes.

Leon: Oh, come on, why do you gotta be like that. Spit it out already, you hate this place.

Celeste: That would be an overstatement. Sure, I dislike its appearance, but places like these are, sadly, all too commonplace.

Leon: Man, do you never put things like you think them?

Celeste: Oh? Do you think I’m being insincere?

Leon: Well, kinda... Not in a rude way though. I just don’t get you.

Celeste: Then perhaps an explanation is in order. I put things the way I mean them. Always. I simply use a language befitting of my social standing when doing so. Dancing around issues is rarely helpful, so I put things as they are.

Leon: But... you don’t even sound sincere! I heard you losing your accent when you’re nervous too, I think. During the trial.

Celeste: Maybe my tone of voice wavering made it seem like that, but I assure you, this is just me acting like my normal self.

Leon: Ugh, whatever...

Mukuro: Guys?

Leon: Oh, sorry, Mukuro! I kind of forgot you were here.

Celeste: Do excuse us for leaving you out. We just got done examining this place.

Mukuro: So, what’s it about then?

Leon: It’s just a club. That’s it. Nothing too special.

Celeste: And you will leave out freely accessible alcohol that you were so excited about?

Leon: Hey! Don’t bring attention to that, what if Taka finds out?

Mukuro: Well, considering that supermarket and pharmacy get restocked, I don’t see a reason this place wouldn’t.

Leon: Oh, I guess that makes sense.

Celeste: Beyond just the main venue, there are also two backrooms. Ultimate Pop Sensation’s lab and the basem*nt.

Mukuro: You mean, Sayaka’s lab?

Celeste: Indeed. It’s tragic she didn’t live to see it, but it was not particularly spectacular. A simple changing room with a small stage to practice vocals on and a lot of merchandise with her likeness.

Mukuro: I see... What about the basem*nt?

Leon: That seems to be for general supplies. There’s music instruments, decorations, mirrors, whatnot. Dance club stuff.

Celeste: And it’s worth noting, ceiling here is similar to the library’s. There is a catwalk system, accessible from outside. Presumably to control strobe lights and that tacky disco ball.

Mukuro: I see... Well, I think I’ll leave it to you then, since you seem like you have got it already.

Leon: Well, we were just done and about to leave.

Celeste: Indeed. Looking at the time, it does look like we should be gathering back at the restaurant soon.

Mukuro: Well, then let’s go.

***

Hotel Restaurant

We arrived to the restaurant to find Makoto, Taka and Chihiro already there. Eventually the rest joined us too, we all had lunch, and there was some short talk about what we found. Obviously, nobody found anything that would help us escape the island. That left more secondary finds...

Kyoko: ...I saw the terminal in that Electric Avenue too... But I couldn’t get it to work at all. Chihiro, did you examine it?

Chihiro: I did... But it seems like whatever its for, it doesn’t work anymore. I will try more later, but for now, we only have the current display. I’m sorry...

Makoto: No, Chihiro, it’s fine. If you can’t figure it out, then that means it really is not working.

Kyoko: Except it is. Just that the ‘connection’ it needed has been severed.

Aoi: There’s also the rest of the message! ‘Observer Contact Point Gamma’... What could that mean?

Leon: It almost sounds like some sort of military communication thing...

Kiyotaka: Military? You think that console might belong to armed forces?

Mukuro: No, I doubt it. It’s too bulky and was clearly meant to be stationary. No way a military force of any kind would use it, unless they were stationed right there.

Kyoko: Observer... Hm...

Toko: D-Don’t just quietly hum... If you have s-something to say, then say it!

Kyoko: ...very well. Mondo, you were the first to discover that console, right?

Aoi: Actually... it was me. Well, technically. I only arrived a few minutes before Mondo.

Kyoko: I see. And was console already used when you arrived, Hina?

Aoi: Used? You mean the wiped screen? Yeah, there was already the smudge.

Kyoko: As I thought. If I had to guess, that console had been used by one of the traitors.

Toko: T-Traitors?!

Celeste: You mean, the ones employed by Monokuma and Usami?

Junko: Like we have some other ones.

Kyoko: Yes. Contact point carries rather obvious implications, wouldn’t you agree?

Byakuya: Indeed. Question however remains. Who was it?

Kyoko: It could have been anyone. Damn it... I should have employed Mondo’s perk the moment trial was over.

Mondo: My perk? Why the f*ck would you need that?

Kyoko: To make sure nobody can interfere and hide potential clues on new island before rest of us can discover them. It appears that is precisely what happened with that console.

Syo: Ooh, I get it! Overnight, our mysterious betrayer has wandered into the darkness of new unexplored land, and locked the console, forever sealing the dark secrets within it from us! Kyahaha!

Kiyotaka: That is most troubling! Perhaps I should adjust my rule to prevent that sort of behavior in future?

Kyoko: Sigh... What’s done is done. Without another trial there won’t be another island, and I’m not planning to let another trial occur. We’ll just have to work with what we have.

Celeste: I take it that is all there is to the situation?

Kyoko: Yes. Unless someone else has something to say, the meeting is—

Kiyotaka: Class President! What about the alcohol?!

Leon: God damn it...

Kyoko: What about it?

Kiyotaka: We have to take measures to prevent any behavior unbecoming of a student!

Kyoko: We had access to the pharmacy for a few days now, and nobody tried anything there. I doubt the alcohol racks in the music venue are any more dangerous.

Kiyotaka: B-But! I’m not talking about danger! I’m talking about underage drinking!

Syo: You’ve really got your priorities all twisted up, huh, Tik-Tok?

Kiyotaka: I did not permit any nicknames other than Taka!

Syo: Kyahahaha!

Kyoko: My point remains the same. Don’t do anything stupid and don’t harass others.

Kiyotaka: I... I see. Well, then I’ll just have to use alternative measures! Neither directly targeting anyone, nor is unbecoming of a student!

Byakuya: Ridiculous. Well, this was a waste of time. I’ll be going.

Toko: W-Wait for me!

Syo: Hey, hands off!

Toko: Or w-what, are you going to s-stab me? I know you’d n-never...

Syo: Oh, miss Gloomyface thinks her tongue is sharper than my scissors? Care to have a more direct comparison?

Toko: He’d n-never want to engage with a murderous m-monster!

Syo: Hah! At least the murderous monster has more charisma than the rotten floorboard! Kyahahaha!

Realizing that the two are too busy arguing to follow Byakuya, I quietly followed him myself, along with others starting to disperse. I had some questions and needed some answers.

***

Ultimate Writing Prodigy’s Lab

He went all the way here of all places... And there he was, sitting in Toko’s lab, although as I approached him, he almost twitched before scowling with his usual condescending look.

Byakuya: It’s you.

Mukuro: What, were you hoping for one of your girlfriends?

Byakuya: Oh, please. I’d rather be in a company of a pig herd than either of them. But what do you want?

Mukuro: Why are you here? I mean, when they start looking...

Byakuya: Their own labs will be the last place they look, obviously. Why would they think that I’d hide from them in their own labs? And stop dodging my question.

Mukuro: That does make sense. Anyway. I want to know about something.

Byakuya: Really now? And what do you have to offer?

Mukuro: I expected something like that. What do you want?

Byakuya: Straight to the point then. Well, since I’m feeling generous, a simple offer. Your company for the rest of the day, in exchange for my knowledge.

Mukuro: My... company? Wait, don’t tell me... you’re trying to make those two think you’re interested in me?

Byakuya: Do I look that simple? I have my own reasons and I have given pretty simple terms. I thought you might find them very much in your favor, while I would find them in mine.

Mukuro: Okay. Fine. Deal, I’ll stick around you for the rest of the day. Just don’t be a pompous prick.

Byakuya: That wasn’t in the deal. Regardless, I suppose I should deliver on my own end. What do you want to know?

I showed back of my hand to him.

Mukuro: Tell me everything you know about this.

Byakuya: Hm. I wondered if your amnesia is real, but it appears it really is. Very well.

Mukuro: So, you know something about this tattoo?

Byakuya: Yes. It’s a sign of membership for a certain international organization.

Mukuro: What? But, nobody ever mentioned anything like that about my tattoo!

Byakuya: I wouldn’t expect so. After all, that group keeps their customs to themselves, not to mention that not many people would even know anything about the group in the first place.

Mukuro: Cut the vagueness.

Byakuya: Fenrir.

Mukuro: Fenrir...? Like the wolf of northern mythology?

Byakuya: Still not stirring your memory? Then either your head trauma is worse than you think, or this is a coincidence of impossible extent.

Mukuro: Fenrir is name of organization, but what kind? What’s it about?

Byakuya: It’s an international military mercenary force. Well known for being best of the best, even a lowest ranking member of Fenrir is considered to be worth hundreds of your usual troops. And every member has that precise tattoo somewhere on their body.

Mukuro: Mercenary force...?

I looked at my tattoo... The wolf... Fenrir. That made sense, but... Me? A mercenary? I mean, I was a genius, just like Junko, but... Is that really possible? A soldier worth hundreds of normal troops? Me? I...

I tried to imagine it. And as I did, my mind went blank... I tried again... I... tried to imagine myself holding a rifle. Tried to imagine myself on the battlefield, shooting people. And yet... I just couldn’t bring those images. To my logical mind it was possible. But when I tried to imagine it... it was completely incomprehensible. No way I was a soldier...

Mukuro: There’s no way I’m...

Byakuya: I thought that far-fetched as well. Although your face just now...

Mukuro: It’s nothing. I just tried to imagine it and recall my lost years again... It didn’t work.

Byakuya: Hm. Then perhaps coincidence is an option.

Mukuro: Coincidence?

Byakuya: In your years, as an act of rebellion you got an artisan tattoo, which just happened to be a perfect mimic of Fenrir’s symbol.

Mukuro: That’s... so unlikely.

Byakuya: But which is more unlikely? A coincidence or you being part of it?

Mukuro: ...

Byakuya: That settles it then.

Mukuro: How... do you even know about Fenrir?

Byakuya: What kind of question is that?

Mukuro: You just said they’re professional international military force, with secretive customs. And yet you know something so specific about them?

Byakuya: Perhaps you forgot who I am. I am Byakuya Togami, Ultimate Affluent Progeny, destined to inherit the great Togami Congolomerate. My future lies among the true leaders of this world. Of course I have access to information that common rabble wouldn’t even dream of.

Mukuro: That sounds farfetched in its own right...

Byakuya: Perhaps it might, to a close minded commoner. But to me, impossibility is not an option. After all, I am to join elites of hidden council that rules the world... And perhaps even lead them.

Mukuro: A hidden council? Seriously?

Byakuya: There’s always amusem*nt to be found in people’s reaction to this revelation.

Mukuro: Ugh... At least I can see why you act like you’re the center of the entire world.

Byakuya: I’m obviously not. Not yet at least. But inevitably, one day, that is my destiny. Of course, first I must get out of here, but... That’s only a question of time.

Mukuro: So, you’re planning to kill somebody?

Byakuya: If that’s what it takes to escape.

Mukuro: And you really would damn everyone else to die in progress?

Byakuya: A small price to pay.

Mukuro: Ugh...

Update! Earned Byakuya’s 2nd Hope Fragment.

Byakuya: I suppose that answers all your questions?

Mukuro: Sure. Whatever. So what now?

Byakuya: Now, until the end of the day, you remain present around me. Just don’t distract me from my reading.

With a groan I looked through the shelves. Finding some sappy romance novel to pass time, I sat down across from Byakuya and started reading. Best way to pass time in his annoying presence would be to ignore him throughout...

***

Mukuro’s Cottage

Surprisingly, Byakuya didn’t have any other smarmy comments for the rest of the day, focusing on his... detective novel of all things. By dinner time, he just got up and left, giving me a half-hearted wave, which, I guessed, meant I was free, so I got some dinner for myself and returned to the cottage.

Ding Dong Bing Bong!

Monokuma: Attention! This is a school trip announcement. Good evening, everyone! It is now 10 PM! Nighttime has officially come, so go and get some sleep to be energetic for tomorrow’s murderous plans! Sleep well!

***

Monokuma Theater

Hates me... Hates me not... Hates me... Hates me not...

You know what! Putting my fate in metaphorical hands of a flower is kind of stupid. I mean, it’s a plant, it barely has capacity to turn towards a source of light, how can you expect it to foretell future? No, I prefer taking matters into my own hands!

How about I instead make everyone hate me, rather than try to guess using stupid flowers! Burn down the whole place!

Why, you ask? Because no respect for good movies! Not a single person liked it! Not one! I know these stupid things are meant to be noncanon intermissions, I don’t care! What are you going to do, stop me? I’m mad! My movie bombed! My whole career ruined... Boo hoo... Some even refused to watch entirely! How is that fair?!

...oh well. Guess if being professional director slash producer slash actor slash scriptwriter isn’t working out, it’s back to good ol’ providing people with daily dose of despair in more orthodox ways than bad cinema. Puhuhu...

Chapter 18: Chapter 3 – Lost in Mourning Fever – Daily Life 2

Chapter Text

Ding Dong Bing Bong!

Usami: Hello, everyone! This is a school trip announcement! It is now 8 AM! Another wonderful morning in tropical paradise! Time to wake up and be ready to cultivate wonderful hope!

Click!

Another morning on this stupid island... At least I haven’t been skipping out on my morning exercise routines despite everything. But with announcement, I better get to the meeting quick.

***

Hotel Restaurant

Well, today seemed to have better atmosphere than before. People were actually chatting and eating together.

Makoto: Hey, Mukuro! Over here!

I sat down with Makoto, where he was waving. Looks like Junko wasn’t there yet.

Mukuro: Good morning. Anything new?

Makoto: Ah, doesn’t seem like it, but Kyoko did ask that we wait till everyone gathers up. Might be something after all.

Mukuro: Really? Maybe she finally figured something out...

Makoto: Yeah!

While we were eating, Junko finally showed up, giving me a quick dismissive glance before sitting alone. Moments after she did, Kyoko started rising from her own seat next to Chihiro, but before she could say anything...

Syo: Okay! You bunch of losers! I have an announcement!

Byakuya: Ugh... What is it this time?

Pushing Kyoko aside, Syo grabbed Toko by the wrist as she dragged her out in front of everyone...

Syo: So, I heard you lot have trouble telling me apart from this disaster of a bookworm. Well, what do you think now?!

Toko: Huh? W-Wait... You...

Syo: Shh! You’re supposed to make them guess, that’s how it works!

Leon: Huh? I don’t get it... Both of you still look the same, right?

Aoi: Yeah, I still have hard time telling you apart, whatever it is you changed...

Celeste: Oh. I think I realize. Although difference is subtle enough that I do not judge those missing it.

Makoto: Huh? They look different?

Syo: What?! Seriously?! Come on! Look!

She waved a palm in front of her own face... Then in front of Toko’s. Only then did it hit me.

Mukuro: You don’t have glasses...?

Syo: Yes! Finally! I mean, come on, those ugly round glasses are awful! Contacts are the future!

Toko: Y-You just don’t understand how they make p-people look more intellectual... Like me or m-master...

Syo: Well, you look like an ugly nerd, and master looks like a dashing prince!

Byakuya: Can both of you just shut up?

Kyoko: I appreciate you getting everyone’s attention, but I have some things I’d like to go over as well. First of all... Chihiro. Can you share your findings with everyone else?

Chihiro: Alright... Well, I examined the terminals in front of Ancient Ruin and in the Electric Avenue thoroughly...

Junko: About time.

Chihiro: And, well... I’m afraid I can’t tell much... One in ancient ruin is clearly just a door control. I can’t exactly tell if it’s connected to machine gun there or not, though.

Syo: We could just have Toko try it!

Kiyotaka: Please, do not interrupt Class President’s presentation!

Kyoko: Continue, Chihiro.

Chihiro: As for one in the Avenue... Well, it’s a communication device of sorts. It’s clearly been used but connection was cut afterwards. I managed to get inside the components, and it seems it’s not even really a proper computer...

Leon: So, what, is it an oversized phone or something?

Chihiro: Oh! That’s a good way to put it.

Kyoko: Can we use it to contact outside?

Chihiro: I’m sorry, but I don’t think so... Whatever means of connection it had, I couldn’t find anything... No antenna, no signal catching parts, no cable connection...

Kyoko: Then our traitor covered up their tracks pretty well.

Byakuya: So, this was a waste of time.

Celeste: I do disagree. Sure, we obtained no new information, but managing to ascertain suspicions we already had as facts has to be worth something, no?

Toko: If m-master thinks it’s a waste, then it’s a waste! Stop a-arguing!

Kiyotaka: Is there anything else, Class President?

Kyoko: Sigh... No. Not at the moment. However. Monokuma is likely to present another motive tomorrow.

Mukuro: He has been following a pattern thus far...

Kyoko: Last two motives were different in nature, so I can’t exactly guess what it’s going to be next. But... I do hope you have actually learned the lesson from previous trials.

I could see Mondo and Celeste wince.

Byakuya: All it takes is someone wanting to escape. At that point, for them it’s matter of rationalizing risk versus reward. Reason has little factor when someone succumbs to basic desire.

Mondo: Are you f*ckin’ starting sh*t again?!

Byakuya: I am simply stating the truth. I’d love a world where everybody is perfectly reasonable all the time as much as anyone. However, being surrounded by irrational stupidity is a simple reality for those greater.

Kyoko: Byakuya. What are you trying to say?

Byakuya: Your leadership is lacking. I’d even dare say you aren’t leading at all. You just stand on sideline and throw advice at everyone, hoping they’ll follow it. Which obviously didn’t work, twice by now. What’s to stop a third?

Kyoko: I understand the downsides to my approach. And if you would like to take my place...

Byakuya: Oh? Don’t misunderstand me. I still intend to play this game for my own benefit. I’m not putting myself into such a detrimental position.

Kyoko: Then what is your goal? Are you trying to sow discord by undermining me specifically?

Byakuya: Hah. As if I’d be so stupid to do it in such a blunt way, were that my goal. No. It’s simply hard to stand someone who thinks they figured out leadership, as someone for whom leadership is a way of life.

Kyoko: Well, you aren’t willing to show it or offer better. And nobody objects to me remaining the leader so far either.

Syo: Well, I don’t like any authority! Although if master were to be a leader, I’d definitely support him! I like men who take charge! Kyahaha!

Toko: B-Byakuya was born as leader... Of c-course he’d make a better leader, if y-you lot were worth his time...

Aoi: I’m pretty sure you’re included when he says he doesn’t like any of us.

Toko: Sh-shut up! I can’t tell what has m-more air in it... Your head or y-your boobs!

Syo: Kyahahaha! Nice one!

Aoi: Gah!

Kiyotaka: Please, stop confrontational behavior!

Kyoko: Indeed. That’s enough of that. I’m assuming nobody else has anything else to say?

Junko: I do! But just to you personally after this is over.

Makoto: Huh? Junko?

Junko: Shh! It’s going to be a surprise!

Kyoko: Alright. If that’s the case, then meeting is adjourned. Have a good day, everyone. And, Junko, I’ll be in my cottage.

Junko: Let’s goooo!

Those two left. Byakuya didn’t stick around either, with Toko and Syo rushing after him the moment they realized he was gone. Well, if he were planning to ‘win’ the game, those two would definitely not make it easy.

I finished my breakfast together with Makoto and left the Restaurant to wander the Island. Maybe I happen to stumble into a clue...

***

Ancient Ruin

This is frustrating... There are multiple combinations that I’d like to try on that stupid door, but the gun... Maybe if we could haul a small pile of sandbags from the beach, then I could jump to cover before the gun could aim at me after a failed try. Hm... The heat of today’s sun is making thinking about it harder than it has to be.

Smack!

What? I turned around to look back at the road going across the island to see... Someone collapsed on the street...? No way, it couldn’t be...

I rushed over and realized that it was Toko of all people. And she was mumbling, sweating and panting as she tried to crawl onwards.

Mukuro: Toko...? Are you... alright?

Toko: Must... get to... master... protect him... from... the monster...

Mukuro: The monster...? Wait, what’s happening?

Toko: She’s... going after him... to... to...

Mukuro: She? Are you talking about Syo? Are you saying she’s about to kill Byakuya?!

Toko: No! W-worse... she... will... confess her love...

Mukuro: What.

Toko: I m-must... stop... her... And beat h-her... to it...

Mukuro: ...