Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

Chapter 1

Rantaro POV

He woke up in the school nurse's office.

With iron plates on the windows.

And...all of his memories.

This is drastically different than what I was expecting.

Rantaro took a moment to let everything hit him.

He was in Hope's Peak Academy. With no guard around. The air was slightly cold. He'd been kidnapped right from the mansion.

Kiyo.

Rantaro bolted up, sprinted to the door, throwing it open. Picking a direction running out of the room.

Running into someone quickly.

“Whoa! You good bro?” A blond slightly shorter than him jolted at Rantaro nearly crashing into him. Rantaro flinched, coming to a complete stop.

“....Do you remember how....we....got here?”

The boy scoffed.

“Hell I wish. Ann just went off that way.”

“Ann?” Rantaro tried to match the pronunciation. Seeing someone else walk by. She stopped, waving to them.

“Hey there!” The really short pink haired girl came skipping over to them.

She's the same height as Kokichi.

“Yo. I'm Ryuji.”

“Hiya! I'm Yui!”

“....Rantaro.” She's not panicked at all.

That could only mean...

Another killing game is about to start. They don't know yet.

Most likely their memories are before they were invented.

There wasn't anything Rantaro could do about that.

Instead, he asked for information.

“You seen anyone else? I uh...just woke up.” He pointed behind him to the nurse's office. Yui whistled.

“Heck of a place to wake up.”

“Yeah, dude ran out like a bat outta hell.” Ryuji outed him. Rantaro sagged a bit.

Another, more familiar face came into view.

Rantaro was ready to run over. He caught himself before he could. Running at an agitated Werecat was not a good idea.

Kimiko raised an eyebrow up at them as he approached.

“Who are you people?”

There it is.

“Rude.” Ryuji scowled. Rantaro waved a hand, getting between them.

“Is there a set meeting place? Or um...how many of us are there?” He pretended not to know.

“....We can make one.” Kimiko shrugged, “Some blond is cooking in the kitchen.”

“Ahhh! I hope to god that's not Ann!” Ryuji took off sprinting down the hall.

Yui tilted her head sweetly.

“Is he headed the right way?”

“No.” Kimiko snorted a laugh. “I don't know what's that way.”

The gym.

Rantaro bit his tongue.

“Then lead the way! I'm hungry.” Yui chirped.

Kimiko turned without a care. Leading them all the way to the dinning hall.

Both of them having younger siblings made them more patient to Yui's need to inspect random things as they walked.

Entering the dining hall. A lot more people had gathered.

People he recognized. Julian, Haru, Hikari, Green, and...

Rantaro tensed at the young woman standing by the kitchen doorway.

Yuno Gasai. The Yandere queen from Mirai Nikki.

Kimiko wasn't kidding. Any story is a star somewhere in the multiverse.

There was a crash from the kitchen.

“I'm okay!” Roxas's male voice sounded.

Rantaro chocked on his spit. Watching Haru dash into the kitchen on Yuno's tail.

Shit! Kitty's going to bleed out randomly during this. Shit shit shit-

“Are you okay?” Yui asked him. Rantaro covered his face with one hand.

“...No.”

“Then I suggest you sit down.”

Rantaro glanced back at Kiyo. His boyfriend had pulled out a chair for him. Next to a short black haired goth girl.

Rantaro sat down with a light groan.

The better part of him wanted this game to not start at all. To wake up in bed with Kiyo back home.

The less idealistic part was screaming at Monokuma to show his face already. Get the intro over with.

A cup of tea was placed in front of him. Looking up, Rantaro hadn't noticed everyone settling at the table.

Roxas gestured to the cup.

“Chamomile with ginger. Good for the stomach.”

“...Thanks.” Rantaro sipped. Pausing, “and honey.”

“Uh...isn't that a given?” Roxas was slightly uncertain now. Rantaro waved off the concern he'd done anything wrong.

“Not everyone adds the extra parts before serving tea. This is helping.”

“Extra?” Roxas was getting more lost apparently. Kimiko used his fingers as he listed things.

“Honey, sugar, jelly, and/or milk. The parts that don't have to be brewed for a drink to be called tea.”

“Who puts jelly in tea?” A girl Rantaro didn't recognize, asked.

“I have a better question. Who are you people?” Green bulldozed to the more pressing topic.

“Julian. Nice to meet you.”

“I'm Yui! I like music!”

“Kimiko Redwater. To answer your question. Russians.”

“Korekiyo Shinguji. Please, call me Kiyo.”

“Roxas.”

“Sieglinde Sullivan.”

“Ann Takamaki...”

“Ryuji....Kid, what are you doing?”

Hikari stopped running her finger along the tea spoon she was holding.

“...I don't quite know myself.”

“Uh...okay?” Ryuji was clearly lost. Yui pushed her chair out bouncing in place.

“Well well well welllll, what's your name?”

“Oh. I....don't remember. I know people call me 'Hikari'. But it doesn't feel quite right.”

Right. Her name's Alice. I'm so used to calling her by her nickname like the red set....hang on.

Rantaro glanced to Julian. Quickly looking down at his own tea cup.

Roxas said he gave Julian that alias. How does he remember it?

“Aido Hanabusa. Can I get a refill?”

“The black teas should be done. I'll get them.”

“How much tea did you make?” Ryuji asked. Roxas held up seven fingers.

“Just enough for the morning.”

“Keh he he. A real enthusiast.” Kiyo held his own cup out as well.

Roxas was happy to run into the kitchen. Yui and Haru followed after him to help.

Once all the pots were set out at the table. They continued the intros.

“Haru.”

“Rantaro Amami.”

“Zeno.”

“Green.”

“Yuno.”

That was everyone....at the table.

Rantaro squinted doing another head count. There were only fifteen of them.

Where's number sixteen?

The monitor crackled to life.

Monokuma's silhouette slowly started coming into focus.

“Testing! Mike check! One, Two. Am I on? Hurray! Welcome new students to Hope's Peak Academy. All students please gather in the gym for orientation! Now now, don't worry about leaving all the dishes in the dinning hall. We can handle that later!” Monokuma cheered. Shutting off the monitor.

Green was the first to stand up.

“Where's the gym?”

“I found it earlier. Follow me.” Ryuji volunteered. Asking over his shoulder, “That was a talking bear, right?”

“Probably an animatronic.” Haru shrugged.

Rantaro noted Yuno hanging in the very back. Yui darting around her pestering her for attention.

I don't remember there being anyone in Mirai Nikki having her energy level. Wonder where she's from.

By contrast. Kiyo and Kimiko were walking a little ahead of him. Calmly surveying their surroundings.

Looks like not everyone else was grabbed as a group. Then, who are these other kids?

“You remind me of food.”

Rantaro startled at Roxas's voice. Laughing a bit at the suddenness.

“I've been called melon head sometimes.”

“Melon's are boring.” Roxas hummed. Squinting up at Rantaro's hair like that was the important thing right now.

Rantaro let him have the simple bit of fun. Everything was about to take a deep dive.

Opening the first set of doors heading into the gym. Hikari stopped at the trophy display case. Pointing at one of them.

“Why is that name scratched out?”

“We can figure that out later. Come on.” Haru ushered Hikari a head of himself. Yuno doing the same to Yui.

Walking through the second set of double doors. The gym was lined with celebration streamers. Sixteen chairs set up in an eight by two seating. The stage's lone podium empty.

“What the hell? Where's the bear?” Ryuji stomped his foot in irritation. Zeno scowled next to him.

“Calls us here only to be a no show. Typical teacher.”

“Not all teachers are awful.” Roxas....said that.

“Disagree.” Ann pointed to the far back curtain, “Should we check there?”

“No need! For I am here!” Monokuma swung down from the rafters by a rope.

Indian Jones reference. Way to make a guy not want to watch something for a few years.

The gym was mostly quiet. A few people shifted or coughed. Other than that it wasn't anything big.

Monokuma stared out at all of them.

“....Well?” Monokuma called out.

No one said anything. Rantaro blinked as some people started to actually sit down.

I....guess we can do that.

Rantaro followed suit. There wasn't any particular order he could see. Everyone sat wherever.

Monokuma cleared his throat.

“Well then....welcome everyone! How are ya'll doing?”

“How did we get here?” Kimiko got to the point.

“I'm glad you asked!” Monokuma cheered. “And a little under prepared. My uh...projector is broken. Rampaging ice problems.”

Julian did that? What's the point of calling that out?

“Sworry to all you visual learners out there. Ahem. Welcome to the newest year at Hope's Peak Academy. A place where the very gifted are gathered to improve and learn!”

“Then where's my sister?” Kimiko interrupted. Monokuma waved him off.

“Hold your horses. I'm not done yet kitten.”

Kimiko hissed and let out a few swear words. Haru covered Hikari's ears glaring over at him.

Monokuma continued.

“That's all well and good wholesome stuff. Isn't it?” Monokuma raised his arms, “Not to mention completely boring! Who wants to watch you lot go to class?....Roxas. Put your hand down. No, let's give the people what they really came here for. The killing game!”

“What?” Roxas asked.

“The killing game where you the participants, ruthlessly compete to graduate!”

“What?” Kimiko echoed.

“I'm bored.” Haru scowled.

“So am I! I've been hibernating for-where are you going?”

Rantaro stared as a few people stood up to leave the gym. Monokuma called after them.

“Hey hey! Where do you think you can go? I locked all the doors and windows!”

“I'll just melt them.” Roxas shrugged.

“Oh? With that suppressor on your arm, kitty cat? I don't think so.” Monokuma raised a paw menacingly.

Rantaro only now noticed an ankle one on himself.

“Sit back down.” Monokuma grumbled. Waiting for everyone to comply. Despair's mascot hopped down with a stack of tablets. Handing them out to everyone one at a time.

“On these you will find digital copies of the schools rules. Keep these in mind as you go about your days.” Monokuma paused giving everyone a chance to read. Not everyone lowered their heads to do so.

Rantaro squinted at his. The tablet was a touch too bright.

R ule 1: Students may reside only within the school. Leaving campus is an unacceptable use of time.
R ule 2: "Nighttime" is from 10 pm to 7 am. Some areas are off-limits at night, so please exercise caution.
Rule 3: Sleeping anywhere other than the dormitory will be seen as sleeping in class and punished accordingly.
Rule 4: With minimal restrictions, you are free to explore Hope's Peak Academy at your discretion.
Rule 5: Violence against headmaster Monokuma is strictly prohibited, as is destruction of surveillance cameras.
Rule 6: Anyone who kills a fellow student and becomes "blackened" will graduate, unless they are discovered.

This is just copied from the first game.

“Oh right! One more thing!” Monokuma cheered.

Fifteen chimes rang out.

Rule 7: The killing game will continue until there are two students remaining.

Rule 8: Use of Magic outside of your designated time limit is strictly prohibited. The corresponding suppression bands will instantly neutralize any creatures, human or otherwise.

Rule 9: when the class trial to find the blackened draws it's conclusion. The other students must also ascertain whether the blackened is a muggle or a mage.

Rantaro looked around the room.

He knew two muggles. Himself and Kiyo. Seven were mages...

The rest were a mystery.

Because Yuno was there. He decided to twist a proverbial knife a little.

“How are you defining mage? I think we all get the Harry Potter reference-”

“He does not speak for all of us.” Zeno spoke up. Causing a few head turns.

“Or, explaining both would help.” Rantaro decided to say instead. Monokuma yack laughed.

“A muggle is simply someone that lacks the ability to cast spells. And I'm not talking your dumb little slight of hand tom foolery. I'm talking fire, hurricanes, pulling knives out of nothing, you name it!”

“Burning your face off?” Roxas suggested.

“Shut up Roxas.” Monokuma scoffed. “The other is, well, the people that can make that interesting stuff happen~.”

“Magic....your serious.” Ann gave a deadpanned stare. Monokuma feigned hurt.

“Do-does lady Ann not believe me?! Say it ain't so!”

“We're not playing your stupid game ya damn maniac. Let us out of here!” Ryuji growled.

Rantaro expected this reaction. Glancing around at the others.

Confusion, anger, nervousness. Plenty of negative energy to take advantage of.

“Violence against you. Unfair.” Hikari managed to articulate.

Aido scowled.

“What's this about a class trial?”

“Ooops! Forgot to put that part in. One sec!” Monokuma chuckled.

More dings.

Rule 10: When a corpse is discovered by three people. A class trail will begin. During the trial, everyone discusses who they think did it. Choose correctly and the blackened will be punished. Choose incorrectly, everyone else will be punished while the blackened goes free.

“We're already imprisoned. What do you mean punished?” Kimiko was in a no filter mood. Not that Rantaro blamed him.

“Execution!”

“Figures.”

“Eh?”

Kimiko waved Monokuma off this time. Angering the bear.

Roxas raised his hand.

Monokuma grunted.

“What is it Roxas?”

“Say no one dies.”

“Then ya'll had better get comfortable. No one leaves until two of you remain.”

Rantaro heard Zeno choke behind him. When he turned back to look at her. The ginger was studying the gym floor.

Julian was the first to stand.

“We better look around then.”

“I haven't dismissed you kids yet-”

“How old are you?” Yui asked. Monokuma gasped.

“Asking a bear his age?! Were you raised in a barn?”

“Your some bitch in her thirties. Calling it now.” Kimiko rolled his eyes, following Julian away from the gym stage.

Everyone else got up at Monokuma's stunned silence.

In the walk over. Everything looked like the first game again. For the most part.

Yui lead him over to the door with his name plate on it. Trying the door.

“It's locked.”

“Course it is, silly.”

“Eeeck!” Yui jumped at Monokuma appearing behind her. Rantaro pulled her behind him. Mostly to be nice.

Monokuma snickered.

“Nothing like a good jump-scare to get you started.”

“Drop dead!” Roxas called from his door. Right across from them. Monokuma waved a set of keys.

“Sooo, you don't want these...?”

“Your rules would be unfair if you withheld them.” Rantaro cut were it hurt.

Monokuma threw the keys down. Whining about them being 'no fun'.

He, Roxas and Yui all grabbed their keys. Noting the bear hadn't dropped anyone else's.

Probably making the rounds.

“See you soon.” Roxas headed into his own room quickly. Yui whined. Not fast enough to follow.

“He locked it. I wanted to see what everyone's set up is like!”

“Maybe tomorrow. I'd like to take a minute myself.” Rantaro admitted. Yui pouted at him.

He patted her head before unlocking his room.

It was creepy how the room matched the Aztec aesthetics he'd asked the school for. Pictures of by gone gods. Sun dials. Lot of metalwork.

Rantaro raised an eyebrow at the paper left on his bed.

'I know I know. Yet another thing to keep track of? Well I want this game to be full to the brim of Heart pounding excitement!'

There was a diagram of a blackened silhouette stabbing a white silhouette.

'Now I'm sure you all get this part. Someone dies, it's trial time. Here's the kicker. You dear reader, are a 'guardian'.'

Another diagram showed this time a gray silhouette protecting the white silhouette from the blackened.

'You are to protect Roxas Niwa, from becoming a victim. Fail to do so. And when the blackened for said kill is dealt. You go down with them.'

Rantaro squinted at the paper. Roxas's name was a stamp.

That's...overkill?

Sure, he wanted as many people as possible to make it. But....

Rantaro turned it over. Oh.

'On the flip side. If your charge kills someone. You may not out them to the other participants. Doing so will result in your immediate death. More instructions will come as necessary.'

Way to spike the tension.

The way it was presented. Rantaro wasn't sure if helping the blackened meant 'escape' or death anyway.

Not really worried about Roxas going kill happy. Any other guardian's on the other hand...

It did create a reason to cooperate temporarily under false pretenses.

For the moment. Rantaro stashed the paper under his bathroom sink. Heading back out to see the others.

“Attention students. The time now is 10 PM. And it is officially, night time.”

“It's really that late already?” Ann asked. Kimiko cranked his neck.

“I don't know about anyone else. But I am done for the day.”

“Same.” Julian agreed. Ryuji groaned.

“Really sleeping in this creepy ass place.”

“It is upsetting.” Sua....Sue....Sullivan agreed.

I'll ask her to pronounce her name again later.

Rantaro watched people start to head in, locking their doors behind them.

Watching Kiyo head to another room hurt. They hadn't slept separately since before they...had sex for the first time.

Dating started the morning after.

Rantaro closed the door to his room.

He spent a few hours drawing out pictures of the others. Girls on one side, boys on the other.

Ann, Zeno, Hikari, Yui, Yuno, Sullivan, Green.

Himself, Kiyo, Haru, Kimiko, Ryuji, Aido, Julian.

Roxas, he placed in the middle.

Following it like this. Number sixteen would be a girl. Junko herself...

Tsumugi was a possibility to a lesser extent.

On the other hand. Knowing that Roxas didn't have much time left. If Monokuma had labeled the Werecat as a girl...

that opened up the chance number sixteen was another guy.

The Silver set is against Junko now. Is there a partner they weren't aware of?

All the questions were buzzing in his head. Rantaro got up to take a shower.

Finding the only setting was cold.

Rantaro took his shirt and pants off. Heading back over to crawl into bed.

Morning came by Monokuma's voice.

Rantaro got dressed before his door bell rang.

When he opened it. No one was in front of it.

There was protest from a few doors down though.

“What was that for?!” Yuno screamed as Yui rushed to the next doorbell.

“Everyone up! Pancakes day!”

“You little-”

“Hey Yuno~ How'd you sleep?” Rantaro put fake cheer into his voice. Alerting the bitch there was a witness.

Yuno glared at him. Covering her chest with her arms. Other doors started opening. Yui yelling about Pancakes from around the corner.

Sullivan sleepily yawned. Her frilly dress ruffled.

Did she sleep in that?

Looking closer. She was in something closer to a Victorian or maybe Edwardian period dress. Layers upon layers puffing out.

That can't have been comfortable.

Though, he couldn't exactly offer to help take her dress off without sounding like a creep.

Once they set to the dinning hall.

They all ended up having a decent sized spread of pancakes, jams, tea and sauteed vegetables with roasted potatoes.

It turned out they had a lot of bottomless pits.

“That was good. I've never had elderberry jam.” Aido. Wow.

He could eat Akane under the table.

Roxas sipped his tea staring at both him and Ryuji.

“I'll use both industrial pots next time.”

“Good idea.” Ryuji grinned, “Where'd you learn how to cook?”

“The place where I sleep.”

“...You mean home?”

“No.” Roxas kept eating. Oblivious to the stares he was receiving.

Yui stood up quickly.

“I wanna check out the A/V room! There's gotta be music in there, right?!”

“Hyperactive pink has a point. We should look around where we can for anything we might have missed yesterday.” Kimiko didn't flinch when Yui child flail punched his arm.

They were close in height. She could have hit his face, but she didn't.

Everyone was branching off to investigate already. Rantaro stood up to ask Roxas to hang out.

Only to be tapped on the shoulder.

“Would you like to inspect the main entrance with me?” Kiyo asked.

Rantaro had expected him to choose one of the girls. If his memories were set to before they boarded the ship, that was what would make sense.

“Sure. Okay.”

“You do not have to if you don't wish to.” Kiyo misread his hesitance.

“That's not it. I...”

“Need a third.”

The two of them startled at Julian's assertion.

“Small groups of three would be more logical.” The ice mage glanced back at Roxas. Who was dumping all of the remaining jelly into an industrial sized pot.

“Not that everyone agrees.”

“He's mixing three types of jelly's into the tea.” Kiyo's eyebrows disappeared into his hairline. Rantaro smiled when Kimiko gave him a suspicious glare.

I'm not the only one looking. Why are you singling me out?

“Roxas. What are you doing?” Zeno stared wide eyed. Roxas ran out back with the pot. Kimiko and Haru right behind him. Hikari giggling as she followed them. Singing a little song about tea time.

Rantaro turned back to Kiyo.

“Lead the way.”

Julian threw an ice axe at the door.

It shattered on impact.

“This thing is much tougher than it looks.”

“The door looks plenty sturdy to me.” Kiyo chimed in. Julian gave the masked teen an exasperated huff.

“There has to be a better use of our time.”

“You don't have to wear yourself out.” Rantaro pointed to the shattered ice, “what else can you do?”

“I can shape ice into basically anything.” Julian kicked his ankle against the mail box. “Which would help a lot more without this.”

Kiyo glided forward. Running a long elegant finger over the mechanism. Rantaro ignored his own flash of jealousy to follow suit.

It looked simple on the outside. A centimeter thick cylinder, hugging six inches of skin. Green light turned on. A bigger red light off beneath it.

“There's no timer.”

“It was activated at 8 am. Have to ask around for more people to observe them.” Julian rolled his leg over a bit. Showing there wasn't much to look at on the sides.

“You can not break it?” Kiyo asked. Julian held up a hand.

“One wrong cut it could blow up for all I know.”

“Don't suppose the bear would tell us.” Rantaro glanced around at the cameras. Giving a disappointed shrug when nothing happened.

“Given the range of some explosives. That is a wise decision.” Kiyo pointed out. Julian hummed.

“Know a few things about explosives.”

“Archaeology still has uses for demolition work. Albeit to a small degree at this point.”

Julian lit up at the happier topic to launch onto. Rantaro joining in with little bits he'd heard about. Focusing mostly on Mayan and Aztecs. Kiyo brought up the pyramids. Julian steered them back to South America with Tikal.

He....really doesn't like....Egypt.

I....will ask more one on one. He looks barely comfortable right now.

Not much came of going over the door. Rantaro figured it wouldn't. Disobeying Rule 1 was going to be a challenge.

They talked until lunch time.

That tea made it's debut.

“This is awful. Try it.” Roxas tried to force the drink on his cousin. Kimiko leaned away from him grumpily shacking his head.

“It isn't poisoned. I was watching him all morning.”

Rantaro wasn't reassured by Yuno's words. Cause he knew who she was.

Kimiko eyed the drink less vigorously now. Roxas rolled his eyes. Tipping the cup back to take a big gulp.

Sticking his tongue out once he swallowed.

“Blep.”

“Don't blep at me.” Kimiko was still grumpy. Roxas too eager to share his pain.

Sullivan sipped the tea. Disgust evident on her face as she continued her embroidery.

Ann pointed to it.

“Where'd you get that?”

“There was a note in my quarters desk. Along with this sewing kit.” The dainty girl held up a small container.

“It's smaller than the tool kit I got.” Kimiko informed them.

“Looks around the same size to me.” Aido shrugged.

“It's thinner.”

“If you say so.” Aido sipped the tea. Balking in disgust, “why would you serve this?”

“Sharing in caring. It's...pain....” Roxas trailed off. Probably trying to figure out his own logic. While they waited for that eternity, Haru got up to make a replacement pot. Hikari trailing after him again.

She was like a bear cub trailing after her dad for fishing lessons.

So far so good.

Rantaro was really hoping that this peace would last. Enough for them to get a grip on what was going on.

Given all the security likely outside. Help from the others is going to take a lot of time.

In the moment, an agitated Monokuma was a lot to handle. All they had to do was not stab each other.

Rantaro rubbed his forehead getting a headache.

That has to be why Yuno is here. A guarantee someone will commit murder.

He decided he needed to spend as much time with people as possible. One on one, groups, anything to build trust.

Push through any exhaustion.

“Are you alright?” Zeno asked.

“Dehydrated.” Rantaro answered. Zeno nodded.

Rantaro started with asking her if she was as big a tea drinker as Roxas.

She apparently preferred the orange juice from district 11.

They talked as others headed out to look around more.

All the way until before nighttime.

Monokuma appeared on the monitor.

“Everyone getting all nice and settled? Fantastic! Good for you. No really. I mean it. Ahahhahaaha.” Monokuma sat back in his seat. With a cocktail.

“Though....I did, maybe, forget to do one little thing at orientation. So...I want you all bright and early at the gym. Before breakfast. With that said. Good night. Sleep tight. Don't let the bed bugs bite~” The monitor turned off.

“First motive huh?” Rantaro groaned, flopping backwards onto his bed.

The door bell rang.

Rantaro sat up slowly.

It rang again.

Okay...

He took the hammer out of his tool kit. Approaching the door with one hand behind his back.

Opening the door slowly he was relieved.

“Hey.”

“Evening.” Kiyo adjusted his hat. “May I come in?”

Rantaro opened the door. Gesturing with the hammer.

Whoops.

To his credit. Kiyo didn't bat an eye. Walking in like nothing was wrong.

Rantaro shut the door behind him. Tossing the hammer on the bench around the corner.

“Where you expecting someone?” Kiyo asked curiously. Rantaro rubbed the back of his neck.

“Jumpy at night.”

“I commend your ability to assess a situation first.” Kiyo stood with his hand in his chin. Eyes crinkling in amusement at the edges.

Rantaro wanted to kiss him. Hold him. But....they were strangers now.

Right?

“...What's the last thing you remember? Before....ending up here?” Rantaro tried to keep the defeat out of his voice.

“Rantaro Amami. Incoming class 79 to Hope's Peak Academy.”

Rantaro blinked a few times. That wasn't the response he'd expected. Kiyo continued.

“I believe we arrived around the same time to the gofer project.”

I'll take that!

Rantaro felt being lighten. It wasn't the most recent but by god it was better than he'd dared hope. Kiyo laughed at him.

“You look like an excited puppy. How strange.”

“Strange-? Oh. Right. The Apocalypse...”

“Well yes that. But logically speaking. That must mean we were abducted right under the Future Foundations noses.”

“...I.....hope the casualties weren't...I...” Rantaro didn't know what to say. In a way Kiyo was right. The Future Foundation had been blind sided.

Kiyo tapped a feather light hand on his shoulder.

“A somber note to be certain. Though...I do wonder if...this is not our first time.”

“....Uh....” Rantaro's mind filled in of course not we've done it plenty of times. “What do you mean?”

“We are the only ones here from the gofer project. If I heard correctly, only Kimiko and Roxas are from a place called Twilight town. Ann and Ryuji are old friends. Do you see where I am going with this?”

“Taken in pairs....” Rantaro nodded.

Taken like that. Perhaps a bunch of killing games had ended around the same time.

And if Rantaro didn't have his memories. He'd buy that.

“You don't seem convinced.” Kiyo noted.

“I get your logic. I'd just rather talk to the others first to confirm how far the theory goes.”

“So you remember the project yourself?”

“The place smelt like bad cologne trying to cover up the stench of corpses in the area.” People really horded Axe Body spray. It was awful.

Kiyo nodded.

“Apologize for the proverbial bomb drop. Now that I have lessened my mind's burden. I feel I can finally get some shut eye.”

“Oh uh. Don't worry about it. If I need to I can take a nap after breakfast.”

Kiyo nodded. Eyes boring into Rantaro for a long moment. Before finally bidding a good night.

After Kiyo left. Rantaro locked the door.

Heading to the gym in the morning. The athletic types, and people that got roped in, were having a push up contest. Yui cheering on Julian. Kimiko face planting onto the floor. Haru still going with Hikari sitting on his back. Ryuji tried to do one arm and fell over. Green was standing by them.

“Come on. How is fifty hard to get to? Move!”

“Come on this isn't fair! Why isn't everyone doing this?” Ryuji scowled.

“I don't get off on a woman telling me what to do.”

Rantaro chocked on his spit again. Kiyo did not respect Ryuji apparently.

“What happened before I walked in?” Rantaro had to ask. Roxas handed him a granola bar.

“I don't know. They were mad about something.”

“That's fifty!” Hikari cheered. Haru lowered to the ground to let the short teen off. Standing up once she dismounted.

“Where's everyone else?”

“Zeno's in her room protesting.” Roxas shrugged.

“That's not a good idea.” Rantaro pointed out.

“If she wants to test the bear without dragging in anyone else. Let her. See what happens.” Green flipped her braid over her shoulder.

“Kimiko.”

“Nope. I'm done.”

“Zeus's lightning bolt. Do you give up at every chance you get?”

Harsh much?

Rantaro wouldn't say he really knew her. Any time he had seen her, she was focused on Roxas.

I think I see why he chose Izuru. She sounds like a 'I bark, you obey' type.

The doors to the gym burst open. With Monokuma dragging Zeno, everyone else in toe. Terrified.

“Guys?”

“He ripped her door off it's hinges. With his teeth.” Ann was pale.

“Oh....” Rantaro winced.

“Bear's are mean spirited animals.”

“Roxas. He's a robot.”

“And people are vicious.”

“Shut up. I have things to say!” Monokuma shouted. Waddling over to the stage.

Has to be above us. Typical tyrant.

Everyone waited. Not everyone stood up. Hikari sat down next to Haru on the floor.

Once Monokuma was satisfied he had everyone's undivided attention. He nervous laughed.

“Alright I'll admit. This is...kinda embarrassing~”

“Your ugly?”

“Roxas I will gag you don't you fucking test me!” Monokuma...fell off the stage.

Everyone glanced at each other.

“Are we supposed to laugh?” Aido asked.

“I don't know. It wasn't that funny.” Yui hummed.

“...Is he dead?” Haru tilted his head looking at the unmoving bear.

“...Leave him to get breakfast?” Ryuji asked.

“Sounds good. What does everyone want?” Roxas smiled widely.

“Jesus. Is not one going to help your beloved headmaster?”

“No/Nope/Fuck you.” Many people spoke at once.

“Tough crowd.” Another Monokuma waddled from back stage. Heading for the podium.

“Now. I mentioned the rules the other day. Let you explore your surroundings. Gave you your room keys. And low and behold. I forgot the most important thing to a killing game!”

“Your self destruct button?”

“....” Monokuma stilled for a few moments. The first one blew up. Haru shielded Hikari from the blast.

The remaining Monokuma tilted his head.

“Where was I...oh yes! The most important thing everyone's been on the edge of their seats for. The very first motive!”

“....I vote pancakes.” Ryuji would have looked more brave if he wasn't sweating buckets. Monokuma continued.

“It's not like just living here is enough to get you to start stabbing each other. I mean, your parents were all wonderful people!”

Yuno's snarl was matched by Julian.

That wasn't a comparison Rantaro wanted to make.

Monokuma bounced on the stage.

“Alright! The first motive of this killing game is! The first blood perk!”

The gym felt colder.

“That's right. The first to kill will get to skip the class trail all together!”

“Oh run head first into being executed on the spot. Cool.”

“Roxas. I hate you.”

“That is what you just said. Isn't it bitch bear?” Roxas said what was on his mind.

“Ugly Tanuki. He doesn't deserve the effort of creative insults.” Kimiko rolled his eyes.

Monokuma fumed at them.

“Fine. Fine. To make sure everyone is on the same page. The first person to kill, and keep the body from being discovered. Until the next nightfall. That person gets to walk out of here. Through the big round door. Without consequence. Satisfied?”

That was too easy.

“Not really.”

“Too bad furball. Now all of ya. Get out of my gym!” Monokuma barked.

Rantaro helped Roxas make bento lunches.

“Anyone can grab any one they want.” Roxas had told the others. He wasn't leaving the kitchen.

When Rantaro had pointed out using the bathroom. The blond had looked down at his feet going 'uhhh...'.

Of course that lead to-

“Why would we trust you two?” Green had narrowed her eyes at them. Yuno nodded in agreement.

Roxas shrugged, “I'm going to cook anyway. Your welcome to use part of the kitchen too...provided you don't mind being watched.”

That had shut the two women up. For now.

Rantaro washed some leeks in the sink.

“Do you think we can keep this up long term?”

“I might ask someone else to help out. Depending on what happens...” Roxas raised an eyebrow at the entrance to the kitchen.

Kiyo just kinda....was leaning in the doorway.

Rantaro was starting to wonder if maybe he wasn't the only one that remembered. Even thought their previous conversation said otherwise.

Roxas handed Rantaro some carrots to wash.

“Little bit of this too.”

“Leek and carrot. Are we simmering with milk?”

“Yeah...and...hmm...” Roxas opened one of the cabinets. Blinking rapidly pulling out an Avocado.

“What's this?”

“That is an Avocado fruit.” Kiyo decided to join in the conversation. Roxas hummed.

“How do you cut it?” Roxas held out the food to Kiyo.

Rantaro dried his hands.

Letting Kiyo pick up a knife and walk towards them.

The tallest of the three carved up the avocado.

Roxas glanced between it and Rantaro's hair.

“Avocado.” The blond looked to Kiyo's hair, “Hmm...licorice.”

“That unappetizing plight on candy? Interesting.”

“This doesn't look good either.” Roxas pointed to the cut up food.

Rantaro took a piece bringing it to Roxas's mouth. The Werecat glanced between him and the uncooked fruit. Sniffing it before wrapping his mouth around....

Rantaro felt his mistake just past his fingernails.

Roxas just ate something out of his hand.

That came off wrong.

“Ew.” Roxas scrunched up his nose.

“Keh he he he he he!” Kiyo snickered. Bent just slightly in a mild attempt to keep it together.

“You really shouldn't do that.” Rantaro directed at Roxas. The blond squinted at him.

“But...you offered.”

“Not like...uh...I meant use your own hands.”

“Yours were clean.”

“That isn't why.” Rantaro kept looking to Kiyo for help. Not getting anything out of the anthropologist. Roxas disregarded him to go back to cooking.

Blushing furiously, Rantaro splashed water on his face.

Not long later. Haru came to grab a bento.

“Tried to slip through the bars blocking the second floor. Monokuma fired up a machine gun out of the wall.”

“Your built like a tank. How would you get by the bars?” Roxas asked. Haru snorted.

“I wouldn't exactly call myself a tank. Your overdoing your carrots by the way.”

“Eeep!” Roxas yelped. Rantaro turned the burner off.

“Sticking my hand through got the warning.” Haru continued.

“Thank you for sharing.” Kiyo said. Haru gave the taller guy an uncomfortable look.

Right. A lot of people find Kiyo unsettling at first.

Hikari came charging in with a pocket mirror.

“Haru Haru Haru! Look what I found!” She beamed up at him. Haru gave the trinket a cursory glance.

“Shiny.”

“There's a 'G' embellished on it.”

“...Cause it's golden....?”

“That could be.” Hikari held it up to him. Going off about a story about shiny fish from back home.

Rantaro thought it was funny seeing Haru and Roxas quietly eat while she went off. Like kids eating popcorn during a movie.

Kiyo hung a little back with him.

“This peace isn't going to last.” Kiyo whispered.

“...I wish you were wrong.” Rantaro whispered back after a moment. Hikari poking at Haru's stomach.

It really sucked that the bath house was closed off.

I really want to bath in peace.

He wasn't the only one feeling that way.

Sullivan's scowl was cute.

Her dress was looking more wrinkled.

Rantaro scratched the back of his head.

“No judgment. Have you showered since we got here?”

“You sound judgmental.”

“I haven't.”

“Oh.” Sullivan's scowl morphed into a frown. “No. I...have not.” She stared up at him. “Why haven't you?”

Rantaro pointed to the cameras.

Sullivan trailed from Rantaro's finger to the camera with her eyes. No comprehension behind them.

Rantaro added on, “they're always on.”

Sullivan squinted at the camera.

“Those....things...?”

“You've never seen a camera before?”

“....”

“It's a security network. Sending information to the person running this place.”

“Ah.” Sullivan took out her tablet. It took her looking at every edge to find the on button.

Tech challenged?

Rantaro quietly watched her tap around until she found the rules.

“'Rule 5: Violence against headmaster Monokuma is strictly prohibited, as is destruction of surveillance cameras.' Those are the cameras? They look so...small.”

“I've seen smaller.”

“You are joking.”

Rantaro shrugged. Sullivan squinted up at him. Wobbling a bit.

“Are you okay?”

“I must return to my room to rest.” She took a few dainty steps. Rantaro took a few steps with her before offering to carry her. She was surprised. Reluctant to accept. After almost falling over. The small girl accepted.

Sullivan was light. A little too much so for her height.

“Are you eating enough?”

“Hmm? Are you worried about my stamina?” She had a mischievous glint to her eye. Rantaro clarified.

“You seem like the same age as one of my younger sisters. I remember her going through an only vegetables and water phase. It wasn't pretty.”

“...My meals tend to be....spaced out.”

Rantaro set her down by her room's door. Sullivan unlocked it. Waving as she headed in for privacy.

Now to see what someone else is doing.

Ann was a part time model. She'd balked when he told her how many sisters he had.

“Twelve!?”

“Some were adopted.”

“That's still a lot.” Ann's head spun. “I'm....an only child.”

“Wow. Wildly different experiences then.” Rantaro laughed.

“Yeah.” Ann paused, “Were your parents around a lot growing up?”

“As much as they could be. Work sent them around the globe at times.”

“Oh my god, same. I've been living in Japan a while but they're like....not around. I forget where they were last I talked to them.” Ann was a little sad. Pulling at her jacket sleeve before smiling again.

“Okay! New topic. Um...uh....”

“Do you stay with friends often? Two of my sisters tend to be over their friends houses more than our home.” Rantaro offered. Ann hummed.

“Shiho and I mostly spend time out and about. Or well we did...”

Rantaro nodded.

Ann glanced at the clock.

“Okay I really want to take a shower before bed. See you tomorrow.”

“See you at breakfast.” Rantaro waved. As she headed away. Going to the kitchen to get something to eat himself.

Another no death day.

“It's been four days.” Ann spoke at breakfast.

“I would have hoped to have been rescued by now.” Sullivan sagged slightly. Not enough to be considered poor posture.

“Few more days before I call it.” Roxas served out chicken soup. Ryuji raised an eyebrow at him.

“Call what?”

“That my entire cult died brutally by ugly Tanuki.”

Everyone else was quiet as the blond continued to serve out the soup.

Rantaro heard Haru mutter to Julian that that explained a few things.

“What's a cult?” Hikari asked.

“Eat your soup.” Green's face went through a few emotions before falling to 'not my problem'.

Ann's eyes followed Roxas a little more.

Maybe she wants to hang out with him today.

That was a good sign. That everyone was trying to communicate. Even though their situation wasn't changing as fast as they liked.

Rantaro ended up locking eyes with Zeno.

Sure.

“You want to help cook lunch today?”

“...I guess so.”

She ended up leaving part way through. Roxas had accidentally drunk coffee and Zeno had been freaked out.

Rantaro let Roxas run around meowing about whatever he was on about. Offering lavender extract he was making to taste test.

“Strong!” Roxas did a back flip off the counter. Going back to spinning in circles with the peppers.

Haru came in to see why there was screaming. When Roxas ran over to him ordering him to eat the green fries. Haru understandably confused. Slowly ate the yellow peppers that were shoved at him.

“Can you take him back to his room? He's about to caffeine crash.”

“How do you know that?” Haru coughed, “I mean, yeah, whatever.”

“We must beat 20/20 mode!”

Haru pulled Roxas by the hand.

Rantaro washed the dishes.

Aido was an aristocrat. With a heavy science back ground.

He wasn't the biggest help in the kitchen. He was more chatting and good company. Talking mostly about the girls from his school.

“It's a lot of fun teasing Yuki-chan.”

“Sounds like you have a crush on her.” Rantaro laughed. Adding paprika to the meatballs. Aido snorted.

“Like that would ever happen.”

“Oh? You go too far or something?”

“Uh....your...surprisingly cheery.” Aido was chewing on a carrot stick.

“I'm trying to stay positive.” Rantaro put the lid on the pot, waiting for it to boil.

Aido sniffed the air.

“Your a good cook.”

“Thanks. My sisters always liked this recipe.”

“...'Liked'?”

Rantaro hadn't realized he'd used pasted tense. Well no covering it over now.

“They're all missing.”

“....”

When Aido didn't say anything. Rantaro turned away from the stove.

Aido was facing away. Toying with one of the carrot sticks.

“Aido?”

“....You don't....have to be formal you know.”

Rantaro had actually forgotten what Aido's first name was.

“Isn't everyone calling you Aido?” Rantaro asked. Aido tapped the carrot stick against the counter.

“Hanabusa is fine. We're all stuck here anyway.” He sounded frustrated.

Rantaro leaned against the counter by the pot. Not boiling yet.

“...What's on your mind?”

“Heh....” The blond's shoulders shook. “Still...not full...”

Rantaro jolted.

“Do you have an eating disorder? Hanabusa?”

At his name. The blond doubled over.

“Nope nope nevermind! Aido's good-hurk!” Aido covered his mouth before bolting from the room.

Rantaro stood in the kitchen stunned.

Ann and Ryuji came by soon after. When asked, neither of them had seen Aido.

He turned up for dinner. Notably eating less than he had been. Rantaro gave him some lavender infused tea with ginger candy.

“Hope it helps.”

“...Thanks.” Aido didn't look at him.

Rantaro woke up. Went to the dinning hall. Counted fifteen of them. Sat to eat breakfast with Yui at one of the small tables today. And got dragged around the gym for four hours for it.

Five days and no one was dead.

Well....that was....nice-

Monokuma cracked to life on the monitor.

“The lot of you. Gym. Now!”

-there it is.

Rantaro sat on the floor by the stage. Yui spun around doing cartwheels back to back. Not caring if her skirt was too short for it.

Once everyone arrived. Monokuma sprung up from the podium.

“Rawh!”

“Ahhh!” Ryuji yelled.

“I'm bored!” Monokuma whined.

“No one cares. Die.” Roxas deadpanned.

Monokuma tilted his head.

“I'm surprised that's in your vocabulary. Ya know. Given that...no one's dead yet! By god, I thought I gave you all the secret ingredient of a life time!”

“Maybe no one's stab happy. Ever think of that?” Green glared at the bear with Yuno right behind her.

It is weird it's been so long. I'm not questioning which version of her is among us. It has to be the main lead...then...how long a game is she going for?

Monokuma cleared his throat.

“Look. I have share holders to answer to. Scary thought I know. Boring adult stuff, blah blah blah.” Monokuma pushed a button he'd brought with him.

The monitors chimed to life.

Showing a four by four grid of dead eye emoji's.

“I'm instilling a time limit.”

The counter started at 48 hours. Ticking down by the second.

Everyone stood up in disbelief or shock.

“I was going to give three days. I was! Though...some of you seem like the procrastinate sort.”

“Why are you looking at me!?” Ryuji outed himself. Monokuma continued.

“Alas. This is all I can give you. By this time in two days. If someone isn't dead then...I'm afraid I'll have to start over. With a new cast.”

“We get to go home?”

“No Yui. No.” Monokuma shook his head at the pink haired girl. She stilled in clearer understanding.

An uncomfortable silence rushed through the gym.

Monokuma let them stew in that for a while. Before getting bored with the quiet. Telling them all to get lost.

Rantaro kept pace with Sullivan on the way back. She refused help until they got to class room A-1.

“Are you alright?”

“I'm fine...”

“Your sweating a lot.” Roxas pointed out. She scowled at him as menacingly as she could.

“It's okay to be scared.” Rantaro was as reassuring as he could be.

Roxas picked up the small girl like a princess. Running back to the dorms as she yelped at him.

They made a lot of noise. Yui and Hikari joining in as a race.

Haru grunted next to him.

“Any one else thinking about being a hermit?”

“I have a more drastic suggestion if you'd prefer.” Julian offered.

“I'm not cutting off my leg.” Haru declined.

“I'd rather avoid that. Sure. But...” Ann rubbed her hands together.

“Yours wasn't what I had in mind.” Julian gestured to his own leg, “I can stop the bleeding with my ice. Worst comes to worst. Cut it off. Study the restraint. Get everyone else's off.”

“How sensitive are these though? You could trigger it as you cut.” Green pointed out.

“Depends how the bear views suicide I guess.”

“A trial for an answer most of us watch happen in front of us.” Rantaro said it slow enough to let the thought sink in a bit. “Uh, not that we wouldn't grab bandages.”

“Can we not? I...I'm going on a head.” Ann sprinted away. Haru following her.

Julian waved back.

“After breakfast. When my band goes green at 8. I don't want to wait any longer than I have to.”

Rantaro gave a respectful nod.

He needed to spend some time in his room. To be alone for a while.

Rantaro's doorbell rang twice ten minutes after the night time announcement.

That's more likely to be Yuno this time.

Picking up his hammer. Rantaro approached the door. The bell rang twice again.

Rantaro opened the door quickly.

Finding Kimiko gloomily sulking up at him. With Roxas next to him.

“Old maid.”

“We need another player.”

Rantaro hummed. Lowering the hammer.

“Just the three of us?”

“I invited Aido. He said he felt sick.” Roxas shrugged.

“Tried to invite Hikari. She insisted she could still sleep.” Kimiko didn't sound convinced.

Rantaro stood aside.

They didn't bring attention to the hammer.

“I'll grab my pillows. Be right back.” Roxas turned around. It was easy being...

Rantaro looked farther down the hallway.

“Which one's you again?” He asked Kimiko.

“I'm literally right next to you.”

“...Uh huh.” Rantaro booted up his Monokuma tablet. Scrolling through to the map. “I hadn't really taken note of who was where.”

A crash sounded from Roxas's room.

The yellow Werecat came back with a tower of pillows.

“I can't see!”

“Klutz.” Kimiko pulled three out of his cousin's hands. “You forgot to lock up.”

“Um...” Roxas shoved the pillows towards Rantaro's general direction.

Rantaro grabbed the pillows as Kimiko darted around him.

“You make sure to lock yours?” Rantaro asked over his shoulder.

“Yes!” Kimiko called.

Once they settled in with the door firmly locked. With a chair wedged under it. Kimiko was paranoid.

“I can't pick locks. That doesn't mean someone here....Why are you raising your hand?” Kimiko gave Roxas an exasperated stare.

Roxas slowly lowered it.

“Stretching.”

“....Your a terrible liar.”

“Your a terrible froster.”

“Those cupcakes turned out okay.” Kimiko pouted, “frosting is so different from yarn.”

“Yeah. One's not edible.”

Rantaro laughed.

They played until midnight. Roxas rubbed his eyes glancing at the clock.

“Morning shower. Pillow now.” Roxas pulled most of the pillows he brought over himself. Like a blanket littered with holes.

“Is that comfortable?” Rantaro asked.

“I'm good...night.”

“Night.” Kimiko placed his pillow on the wall by the bathroom. Turning into a cat to settle in.

Rantaro took his shirt and pants off. Crawling under the covers. Listening to Roxas and Kimiko purr in their sleep.

It was a lot nicer than silence.

The next morning. The Monokuma announcement brought them back from sleep.

“Die you fucking cheap animatronic scumbag!” Roxas shouted from being woken up. Kimiko groaned from his pillow. Meowing.

“What do you mean five more minutes?” Roxas asked. Kimiko rolled over.

“Do you want to shower before we make breakfast?” Rantaro asked. Roxas turned to him. Freezing in place. Eyes darting from Rantaro's eyes down to the blanket.

“......Why are you naked?!”

Rantaro blinked.

“I'm in my boxers.”

Roxas turned away face completely red.

“I'll see you guys at breakfast!”

They heard him curse at the door. Having to move the chair out of the way first.

Kimiko snorted.

“Can you help him? I...should take a shower.” Rantaro had decided waiting for the bath house wasn't worth feeling itchy.

And that damned camera made him to uncomfortable for self pleasure.

Kimiko turned into a human. Mouth open with a knowing glint in his eyes.

Ding Dong Bing Bong

The monitors flicked on.

“A body has been discovered!”

Rantaro's stomach twisted into knots.

Then the announcement played again.

Ding Dong Bing Bong

“A body has been discovered!”

“Put your clothes on man, we gotta move!” Kimiko yelled over it. Rantaro hustled.

They joined Green and Ann coming out of their rooms.

“What were you two doing?”

“Late game of cards. You see the bodies?” Kimiko asked. Ann shook her head.

“No.”

“Guys! Over here!” Roxas called from the laundry room. Most everyone had gathered by a streak of blood.

When Rantaro rounded the corner. He saw the first body.

Yui.

“Zeno's over here around the corner!” Green called by the girls bathroom. Sullivan came from the dorms last. Around the corner.

Ann knelt next to Yui's corpse.

“It's like an animal slashed her throat open.”

“You mean Monokuma?” Roxas asked, a twinge sarcastic.

When Monokuma didn't immediately pop up to start giving them their case reports, Rantaro grew nervous.

That was a great TV pop in timing. Why didn't he take it?

Rantaro looked around at everyone.

Ann was by Yui's body. Green was down the hall. Kimiko was right next to him. Ryuji was looking around at everyone suspiciously. Haru was glumly looking at the ground. Hikari-

Rantaro jolted.

“Where's Hikari?”

“I don't see Yuno either.” Ryuji pointed out.

“They aren't over here.” Green gestured down the hallway to the trash room.

“Has anyone seen them?” Julian asked, poking his head out next to Green.

“Split up and search. I'll start on the other side of campus.” Ryuji volunteered.

“What about Yui and Zeno?” Ann asked.

“I can keep watch.” Sullivan volunteered.

“I'll stick around too. They couldn't have-” Julian started.

Kimiko had stuck out his palm. Casting a locator charm.

The crochet hook in his hand spun around, then stopped all together. The Werecat gulped.

Julian placed a comforting hand on his shoulder.

“-Their bodies, couldn't have gone far. I'll hit the trash room.”

“Bodies!?” Ryuji shrieked. Kimiko's shoulders sagged.

“Locator spells only work for the living.”

“Four of us are gone?”

Everyone froze at Sullivan's words.

A fourth of them were gone. And now...someone else was going to be gone in a matter of hours too.

Rantaro felt like he couldn't breath for a moment. Aido looked worse than him. Hand covering his mouth facing away from everybody hunched over.

Haru jabbed a thumb behind him.

“I'll head over with Ryuji.”

“Look over the scene before either of you come to get us.” Green ordered.

Everyone started to go off in different directions. Rantaro wasn't sure where to start.

Kiyo placed a hand on his shoulder.

“Where would they go at night?”

Rantaro blinked.

“Uh....”

“It is easy to think Yui simply went for a midnight run. The high energy type she was. What would Yuno and Hikari be doing out though?”

“....We don't know the time frame.”

“No one was out before hand.”

Rantaro opened his mouth to ask what he meant. Getting interrupted by a scream.

“What the fuck!?” Roxas jumped back from the laundry room. Rantaro and Kiyo darted forward to see what the commotion was.

The laundry room was covered in blood. From floor to ceiling. Ribbons of the dry substance clung to everything. Yuno's head resting on the table. Eyes scratched out completely.

By contrast. Hikari looked like she could be sleeping in a mildly unflattering red dress.

Red was....not her favorite color.

Teal. She liked teal.

Roxas took a few steps away from the door. Throwing up near the bath house.

It hit Rantaro then.

These were the first bodies Roxas could remember seeing.

Kiyo rubbed soothing circles into Roxas's back.

Ding Dong Bing Bong

“A body has been discovered!”

Ding Dong Bing Bong

“A body has been discovered!”

Once the last one had been announced. A not automated message came on.

“Guys. Laundry room. Move. Your almost boring me.”

“Bastard.” Roxas heaved out.

They ended up waiting for everyone to come back. Most looked in the laundry room with horror. Others cringing in disgust.

Monokuma finally waddled over to them.

“Sorry. Stairs. Ahem! Well it took ya long enough! Now....here's the thing. I know some of you were nervous about your first trail. It's a big deal, I get you! However.....the deal was that the body go undiscovered to earn the first blood perk. So....” Monokuma whipped out a button. Pressing it dramatically.

Eleven chimes rang out.

“It's the Monokuma file! Your ever important autopsy report. Plus any hints...when I feel like that...”

Rantaro squinted at the image of Yui's report.

'Time of death: Night time. Throat and torso slashed by claws.'

Zeno's was next.

'Time of death: Night time. Throat and torso slashed by claws.'

They were killed by the same method?

Hikari.

'Time of death: Night time. Stabbed in the torso by a sharp object. Died by bleeding out.'

Yuno.

'Time of death: Night time.'

“Why is Yuno's so short?” Ann asked. Monokuma gestured to the laundry room.

“Use your eyes to investigate. I'll call you when it's trial time.” Monokuma hobbled away. A few of the others called after the bear angrily. Rantaro glanced to Sullivan. She was kneeling by Yui's corpse, inspecting the wounds.

“See anything....interesting?”

“There doesn't appear to be any discoloration. Poison is unlikely involved.”

“That...helps narrow down...possibilities.”

“Squeamish?” She asked politely.

Kiyo rubbed at Rantaro's shoulder.

“It is a terrible sight.”

“I'll be...fine.” Rantaro knew he didn't sound convincing. They had a time limit to get everything they needed.

Julian grunted from in front of the laundry room.

“It's hard to investigate this room with all the blood.”

“I still have 45 minutes until I can cast spells.” Kimiko growled at the security camera. Roxas tapped the black haired teen's shoulder.

“What are you trying to cast?”

“Accio. Check and see if either of their room keys are on them.”

“Okay. Accio!”

Roxas was promptly pelted in the face by everyone's room keys.

“Meow!”

“Yeah....that....looked like it hurt.” Kimiko was blinking repeatedly.

Rantaro patted the spot where his key used to be.

“I saw mine and Aido's fly off our persons. Along with Yui and Sullivan's.” Kiyo spoke up.

“I can confirm mine and Kiyo's keys.” Sullivan offered.

“Dude, that was....almost cool.” Ryuji was swatted by Ann.

Roxas had Kimiko hand everyone back their room keys. Aido held out a hand when Kimiko went to walk away.

“I can check their rooms for clues. Blood is...a lot to deal with.”

“Okay. Aido and I will handle that then.” Kimiko and Aido went to the room all the way at the end of the hall first.

“Who's room was that?”

“Hikari's.” Haru grunted. “I'm going to check the trash room.”

“I shall accompany you then.” Kiyo volunteered.

Rantaro decided to round the corner to check on Zeno's body before following them.

Her arm had been torn off.

Way to leave something out.

It really did look like a wild animal attack.

Why are only two of them the same?

The blood had pooled under the body. Face down in the blood.

Rantaro headed away to the trash room. He needed to not look for a moment.

Haru and Kiyo were inspecting the grate.

“There are no indications this has moved in years.”

“I don't see any hint of red in here either.” Haru was tapping his foot.

I better not call him out for being nervous. We all are.

Rantaro tugged on the trap door. He hadn't expected it would move. And it didn't.

“I don't think we're getting anything else out of here.”

“Haru. Perhaps we should inspect the bathrooms by the body?” Kiyo suggested. Haru shrugged.

“Sure.”

“No hesitation over the girls room? Color me surprised.”

“Evidence could be hidden anywhere. Any of the girls raise a fuss, they can walk in a head of us.” Haru tossed his hair over his shoulder as he began to exit the room.

Rantaro laughed softly. Humor dying at a glance to the camera.

Kiyo patted his back before heading out.

Rantaro headed the other way down the hall. To the dorm rooms.

The first dorm room to investigate was on the connective corner. If he remembered correctly, it was Ogami-senpai's old room.

Hikari. Did she....make it to fourteen? I don't...know if I knew when her birthday was.

Aido came out of the room rubbing his forehead.

“Hey, you okay?” Rantaro asked.

“Peachy.” Aido rolled his eyes. “She wasn't abducted.”

“I don't smell anyone else's scent in the room either. Anyone with a stronger nose is welcome to check.” Kimiko called from in the room. Aido glanced over his shoulder.

“You aren't done?”

“Checking one thing!”

Rantaro headed inside to see what the black cat was up to.

Slowly rubbing a pencil over the note pad.

The entire. Note pad.

“Your dedication is admirable.”

“Could have checked other peoples...” Kimiko grunted. Rantaro held up his hands in peace.

“Check mine if you want.”

“We were together all night.”

“What was that?” Aido had come back in to lean against a wall. There were no signs of tears in it. Kimiko put down the pencil once he was done.

“Me, Rantaro and Roxas had a sleep over.”

“That's....convenient.”

“Search if you want.” Rantaro tossed his room key, startling Aido.

“I have nothing to hide.”

Quietly, Aido tossed the keys back to Rantaro.

“Girls first. We don't know how much time we have.”

“I'll leave this open for the others. Feel like I'm forgetting something...” Kimiko hummed.

The three of them headed out to the next room.

Zeno's.

Fujisaki-senpai's.

Rantaro glanced at the rooms down the hall.

“Which rooms are left?”

“Yui's and Yuno's.” Kimiko pointed to them. Two doors down from them and diagonally across-ed, respectfully.

Rantaro waved to Sullivan down the hall. The petite girl waved back.

“You want to catch the guards up?” Kimiko asked.

“One more.” Rantaro decided.

No complaints. They headed in.

Yui's room was an absolute mess.

“How did she sleep in here?” Aido's eyes were blown wide.

“This is nothing.” Rantaro shrugged.

“How bad is his room?” Aido asked Kimiko. The Werecat popped his cat ears out.

“No where near this bad. This looks like a college dorm room after a rave party.” Kimiko groaned. This pile was going to take time.

Finally Kimiko was able to cast spells. Happily summoning the notepad to him.

It was covered in glitter glue and stickers.

Kimiko tossed it away with a shriek.

Julian ran in fist raised for a fight.

“Glitter phobia.” Rantaro was meowed at insistently. Most likely being cussed out. Julian deflated in relief.

“If this room's too much for you, move on. I can handle some digging.”

“Same. Half my sisters left their rooms like this all the time.” Rantaro snorted. Kimiko was a little pink as he scurried off to the next room. Aido close behind him with a careless wave as he left.

Rantaro took in what he could make out of the room.

“It's hard to tell if there was a struggle of any kind.”

“I would expect some of her make up to be scattered if that was the case.” Julian hummed. Picking up a bra off the floor.

Part of Rantaro wanted to ask if any of Julian's succubus abilities could be picked up by the ankle bracelet.

That would put me in danger.

“How has your search been going?” Julian asked. Picking up more laundry. Rantaro moved a few drumsticks to the side.

“Every little part helps. Haven't checked the laundry room yet.”

“It wasn't easy tip toeing around all the blood.”

“You went in?”

“Someone needed to. Here I thought those ballet lessons only served as pain.”

YOU WERE A BALLERINA!?

There was a lot they didn't know about Jem then. Holly shit.

Julian made it over to the bed.

“I'm going to check the covers to be thorough.”

“Bathroom....” Rantaro opened the door and shut it immediately. “Uh!”

What was that smell!?!

“No wonder why she was using the one outside.” Julian huffed. Covering his own nose. Rantaro blinked at him.

“The one outside?”

“Yeah. The one on the trash room wall.”

Rantaro rubbed his forehead.

“Yui got stabbed cause she had to use the bathroom?”

“Probably.”

“....Ew.” She shit herself? I know corpses decay. And muscles let go but, yikes.

“Would have smelt worse if she hadn't already went.” Julian...

“Why do you know that?” Rantaro cringed. Julian hummed.

“These are far from the first corpses I've seen.”

“I'll....take your word for it.” I am not going to sniff the corpses.

“I'm going to keep looking around. See if walking around gets that terrible smell out of your nose.”

“Thanks.” Rantaro headed out quickly.

Kimiko was done going over Yuno's room. Boiling anger radiating off of him. The black cat stormed away towards the corpses.

Rantaro glanced up at Aido.

“I didn't see what he found...”

“Let him cool off.” Rantaro gestured to the blood they could see, “you going to be okay?”

Aido looked so unsure. Rantaro scrambled to think of something. Somewhere near by.

“The Warehouse.”

“Sounds like busy work.”

“No blood no worries?” Rantaro offered. The blond hesitated.
“I can stand in the line of sight if that helps.”

“Your....nice.” Aido nodded.

Rantaro steeled himself for corpse inspection.

Sullivan was happy to share her findings.

“Neither of them were violated.”

Rantaro chocked out a 'good to know'.

Ann looked squeamish.

“The killer wasn't a pervert then.”

“Given where we are standing. It is likely that they were spotted by Zeno.”

Sullivan pointed down the hall.

“Order of events will paint different pictures. How do we know who died first?”

“I have my opinion.” Sullivan stated. Ann rubbed her forehead.

“I didn't see anything in the kitchen. All the kitchen equipment is still there.”

“Where's Ryuji?”

“Checking the other area of the school for blood. A possible weapon. Anything.”

Ding Dong. Bing Bong.

Monokuma came onto the monitors.

“Please proceed to the red door on the first floor. It's Trial time baby! Oh I am so excited! You have no idea how long I've been waiting for this!” Monokuma panted as the transmission ended.

Rantaro lingered by the laundry room as everyone started to head to the meeting spot.

The room was absolutely covered. Yuno's lifeless head...had been toppled over. Did Julian do that?

Hikari was slumped over. The lease amount of blood around her. Nothing was sticking out of her. The apron on her was not showing much white anymore.

Rantaro breathed through his nose. Glancing over the door frame. Some blood was in the cracks of it.

“Ava.”

Rantaro turned to Roxas.

“Coming Kitty.”

“Kitty?”

“Uh-”

“MOVE IT!” Monokuma popped up screaming at them.

Rantaro took Roxas's hand. Sprinting for a get away.

The elevator ride was long. Nothing really happened. No one wanted to talk.

Exiting once the doors opened. The trail room stood before them.

Rantaro felt bile in the back of his throat.

It hadn't been changed since Ogami-sempai's trail. The red lining the place was the exact same. The only difference was the lack of corpses, blood and bullet holes.

It was the failed trial.

“Everyone take your seats! I labeled them for you.” Monokuma swooned.

“What's with this?” Roxas poked the portrait.

“I'd feel awful if someone was left out just because they died!”

“These are haunted!?” Ryuji screamed.

“Eh? Oh uh...I didn't think that far.” Monokuma's robot sweated.

“Oh? Or would it be too easy in the event someone knew who their killer was?” Roxas snapped at the bear. Monokuma growled.

Ann tugged the shorter blond around the circle. Trying to find their seats.

It ended up being an empty seat in front of Monokuma. Sus.

On the bear's left going around, Ryuji, Zeno's dead portrait, Green, Julian,

Sullivan, Kiyo, Aido, Kimiko. The black cat was right across from Monokuma. Followed by Yui's portrait, Rantaro himself, Yuno's portrait, Hikari's portrait, Roxas, Haru, and finally Ann on Monokuma's right.

And so it begins.

“Let's begin with a basic explanation of the class trial.”

“Do it or die?” Roxas raised an eyebrow at the bear. Monokuma went quiet for a few seconds.

“I mean...yes. Feels a tad short though.”

“Whatever. We have four bodies to go through. Are there any other alibis besides me, Rantaro and Roxas, after night time started?” Kimiko cut in. Monokuma leaned back on the throne after that.

“What where you three doing together?” Ryuji asked.

“Cards. Couldn't sleep right away.” Kimiko answered.

“Well no. I was in my room.” Ann said.

“Most of us were.” Sullivan said. Tapping her chin.

And the only other person...wait.

“Aido. Didn't Roxas invite you?”

“I threw up. Didn't want to risk spreading anything.”

“You looked awful.” Roxas told the taller blond. He got an annoyed expression in response.

“Did any of you leave the room for any reason?” Haru asked.

“No doors opened before midnight.”

Everyone stared at Kiyo.

“I've made it a habit to keep watch for at least two hours after the announcement.”

“Uh, dude? That sounds creepy.” Ryuji grimaced. Kiyo was unbothered.

“Then that begs the question if you did the deed.” Sullivan pointed out.

“Let's see what evidence we have before jumping to conclusions.” Kimiko said. Holding up a few sheets of paper.

“What's that?” Green asked. Kimiko held them up to make it easier for people to see. One was filled in with pencil, the other a written note.

“I found this note in Hikari's trash.” He waved the note on his left. “This one in Yuno's room.”

“'I want to meet privately to talk about possible solutions. Meet me in the laundry room in ten minutes. Signed Yuno.'” Aido read out loud, “That sounds so suspicious. Why would anyone go?”

“Hikari did.” Kimiko frowned. Green squinted at the notes.

“What an idiot.”

“You didn't have to say it, bitch.” Haru looked down his nose as the green haired teen glared at him.

“Yuno was torn to shreds. There's no way that she killed all of them.” Green asserted.

“Right. I didn't find anything like a suicide note either.” Kimiko put out.

“It does feel like the four are separate occurrences.” Kiyo pointed out.

“Separate? Like we're dealing with multiple killers?” Ryuji asked.

“It is unusual to switch up murder methods mid combat.” Kimiko said.

“Speak for yourself.” Roxas! Roxas why!?

Kimiko wavered as he continued, “I-in the event we have to find two killers. What is the procedure here?”

Monokuma hummed.

“That's a little tricky. An accomplice would not get the benefit of graduating. Uh....how should I phrase this...” Monokuma hummed.

“We didn't ask about accomplices. We asked about murderers. How many are we dealing with?” Haru spat. Monokuma grumbled.

“In this case. Less than two. That's all your getting!”

“Great.” Haru huffed.

Monokuma's avoiding answering.

Rantaro sweated.

Could it be that two of them were going to be sentenced at the same time?

“If they're separate. Why's there a blood trail from the laundry room to Yui's corpse?” Kiyo pointed out.

“That's a good point. There was blood in the door frame. It's a certainty she was dragged.” Sullivan said.

There's gotta be a connection.

Rantaro hated to do this.

“Roxas?”

“What happened to Kitty?”

“Can you elaborate more on switching methods, Kitty?” Rantaro added on the nickname hoping to skip over a pouty cat face.

Roxas nodded.

“When in combat. It's easy to slice with a sword to a point. If an opponent is too over powering, switching weapons can give enough surprise to land an attack. Sword to enchanted morning-star.”

“'Enchanted'?” Ann echoed.

“Right. We haven't touched on magic.” Green nodded. Tapping her foot anxiously.

“If that's what happened then....Roxas could have-?” Ryuji started.

“None of us left the room. I placed a slip of paper in the door when we closed it for the night. It was still there this morning.” Kimiko rolled his eyes, “And teleportation does not work. I've tried.”

“Same.” Roxas nodded.

“Ditto.” Julian groaned.

“You have magic?” Sullivan stared up at Julian bewildered.

“To recap. Only Rantaro, Roxas and Kimiko have a solid alibi. We are uncertain how the deaths connect. And only know our assailants do not exceed two.” Kiyo recounted.

“Anyone else have a headache?” Ann asked.

“I can make tea after this. Right now. Who died first?” Rantaro asked.

“It is my belief that Zeno died after Yui.” Sullivan asserted.

“What makes you so certain?” Kimiko asked. The petite girl pointed to Zeno's portrait.

“Zeno was found around a corner. Face down in her own blood. A place that could have made for a convenient hiding spot. Had she been calm.”

“Killed as she ran away.” Julian hummed. “Her arm being torn off looked to be pre-mortem.”

“Huh?” Ryuji asked.

“Inflicted before death.”

“Oh.”

“The claw marks to her back were deep.” Julian added.

“Claw marks?” Roxas lifted his hand. Flexing his claws. Showing how short they were.

“Yours wouldn't get that deep on one strike...” Julian's eye twitched slightly.

Was that a lie?

“I would have liked to compare for myself.” Sullivan scoffed.

“Too bad.” Monokuma made a buzz sound.

Looks like we aren't getting to investigate once that time has passed.

“What could have made those claw marks then?” Ryuji asked.

“A lot of things. I've seen bear claws and vampire claws get mistaken for each other.”

Rantaro rubbed his forehead.

“If Zeno was after Yui. Yui was dead or being attacked when she was spotted. Yui must have been being dragged to the trash room. Does that mean Yui saw something?” Roxas asked.

The room was quiet for a moment.

“Yuno invited Hikari to kill her. Yuno killed Yui. Started to drag her to the trash room. Was spotted by Zeno. But...uh....how did Yuno end up....worse than the rest?” Rantaro tried to put it gently. Aido looked ready to throw up again.

“I agree Hikari was lead to die by Yuno.” Haru scratched at his arm.

“That leads me to believe there was a change.” Sullivan stated, “We do not know what time the murders took place. And I doubt anyone is going to volunteer convincingly having their ankle bracelets allotted for night time.”

“Monokuma. Is it only one hour?” Roxas asked.

“Yeah. You'll get more as time goes on.” Monokuma shed light on.

“We've all seen Mine and Kimiko are in the morning. And Roxas is the afternoon.” Julian said.

“Two that are already declared innocent. And while that would clear you...” Sullivan hummed.

Rantaro pulled out his monopad. It was 11:43 AM.

“Who's is active right now? It's not noon yet.”

“I can not lift my leg that high without strain.” Sullivan was lifted by Kiyo to show her ankle. The petite woman blushed in agitated embarrassment.

“That is helpful.” Roxas noted as Kiyo put her down. Green scowled at the anthropologist.

“What do we do, wait a full twenty four hours?”

“You have a half hour left.” Monokuma wave her off.

Rantaro winced.

One more person cleared still won't point to the killer. It wasn't me, Kimiko, Roxas, Julian, Sullivan. Those are proven.

It's unlikely it was Aido.

Of the victims. Yuno's the only murderer.

“Kiyo, Ann, Ryuji, Haru, Green and Julian. Six is still a lot.” Kimiko frowned.

“How do we narrow this down?” Sullivan said.

“Me?!” Ryuji freaked out.

“Keh he he. Six out of eleven here. Are we discounting Aido?”

Aido turned around. And threw up.

“For now.” Rantaro cast him a sympathetic glance. Recoiling at the sight of blood.

“Bro?” Ryuji yelped.

“Tuberculosis?” Ann gulped.

“Eek.”

“Reason for calling it soon. That boy needs to lay down or be put down.” Monokuma snickered.

“Fuck you.” Haru glared at the bear. Roxas laid a hand on Haru's arm. The black haired teen glanced back at the Werecat softer.

“Maybe...we focus on whether the killers a girl or a guy?” Roxas asked.

“I didn't see anything to say one way or another.” Kimiko squinted.

“Plus, ugh, with none of their rooms being disturbed. It's not like we can check for hair or anything.” Aido added.

“They're rooms were not disturbed at all?” Kiyo prompted.

“Not at all. Yui's is a mildly organized mess.” Rantaro said.

“That's generous.” Aido quirked an eyebrow. “You didn't react well to her bathroom.”

“What happened?” Ann asked.

“Yui had been using the toilet by the trash room. After an unfortunate incident with some heavy perfume.” Sullivan added.

“Yui got killed cause she had to piss? Damn.” Ryuji sulked.

“No one would need to know that before hand. This was a crime of passion.” Kimiko added.

Rantaro rubbed his forehead. There had to be-

“Ten minute mark guys! Oh this is so-”

“It was me.” Haru growled at the bear.

Roxas's hand recoiled.

Everyone stared at him.

“Huh?”

“W-w-what!?” Monokuma seethed.

Rantaro stared in disbelief.

“Y-you gotta be kidding me.” Ryuji swallowed. Haru didn't take his eyes off the bear.

“He wants everyone to panic. He knows there's little chance of enough people guessing correctly.”

“Why?” Roxas's voice came out a little choked. Haru wouldn't turn to face his master.

Right. They....don't even know.

Rantaro felt his stomach turn.

“Dude. If you're pullin' our leg. You die too. You remember that. Right?” Ryuji nearly pleaded.

Haru didn't answer.

He turned into a bear.

Ryuji and Ann screamed. Sullivan cursed loudly in German. Kiyo and Aido stepped away from their podiums. Aido unfortunately stepping in his own vomit.

For a moment. Roxas had starry easy for the fuzzy animal.

Then he recoiled.

“You mauled Yui!?”

Haru turned back.

“Witness.”

“But you confessed anyway.” Roxas tried to logic. Haru glared back at the bear.

“It took a few minutes after tearing Yuno apart for the adrenaline to cool off.”

“U-uh why Yuno-?”

“Cunt had it coming.”

“Haru! Language! There are children present.” Monokuma looked like his soul left his body. Not that Rantaro believed Junko had one.

“Hikari was only twelve. She'd barely picked up a knife before.”

Not true. But he doesn't know that.

“Yui was like the same age.” Ann held her head in one hand.

“Well since your answering questions. The trash room was right there. Why did you stop?” Sullivan asked. Haru's eyes narrowed at the bear.

“The grate would have taken too much effort to get around. And I didn't have the key.”

“Oh, I do.” Ryuji held it up.

“Dude. That would have cleared you.”

“For real!?”

“Odin help us.” Haru gave Ryuji the same 'really'? Look everyone else was.

“I hate to interrupt but....” Monokuma let out a laugh, “We have a schedule to keep! Any last words Haru buddy old pal?”

Haru gave something like a smirking sneer.

“The traitor's always a girl.”

Monokuma jumped out of his seat. Shouting over the others questions 'Punishment time!' to get Haru away fast as possible.

Roxas tried to hold onto his familiar as Haru was collared from behind. Dragged away with enough force to smack into a wall as he went. The shock knocked Roxas off of him.

Up on a giant monitor. They watched the execution start.

The music played as Haru was tossed into a dark room. Checkerboard tile flooring stretched passed what they could see. Tables lined with paper plates and party hats.

Rantaro felt dread creep up his neck. He'd seen that before.

The lights turned on. The whole party room lined with animatronics. All shouting.

“Happy Execution day Haru!” They twitched. Limbs swinging erratically on some. On others, merely a head twitch.

The screen showed the title of the execution.

'Nature vs Man-made'.

“Use their teeth!” Roxas yelled at the screen. Rantaro blinked his eyes open rapidly. When did he close them?

“What the hell are you on about?!” Green squinted as two more animatronics went after Haru. They were trying to wrestler slam him.

Rantaro saw something slithering by in the back ground as Haru picked up an animatronic beating the other one with it.

He doesn't see it. Oh god. Is that the thing from the pizzaplex!?!

A hand settled on Rantaro's shoulder. Startled Rantaro turned away from the cage fight.

Kiyo was looking at him. Gaze laser focused.

“His anklet bracelet.”

“How did you catch that!?” Ann choked out. Haru's left leg was torn. But he was still punching and kicking. Sending circus baby into Roxanne wolf and Glam-rock Chica.

Glam-rock Freddy got behind the black haired teen. Fist closing on Haru's bicep.

The alligator bit Haru's leg from the ground.

The slithering black tentacle thing came more into the light. Haru turned into an ape. Throwing Glam rock Freddy at the tentacle finally noticing it. The alligator chomped on Haru's leg again.

Haru punched the alligator's eyes. Causing it to malfunction.

Rantaro didn't see the tentacle make contact. It swung and suddenly...Haru wasn't there.

What...just happened...?

The sounds of animatronics continued. The black thing swallowed up animatronic by animatronic. Slithering away back into the gaping whole once it was done.

There was no sign of Haru anywhere.

Silence filled the courtroom. Everyone anxiously waiting for something to break the tension.

“...That wasn't as bloody as I wanted.” Monokuma slumped, “Ah well. I guess I shouldn't complain. After all....we've really gotten started! Oh yeah! The Killing game is in full swing baby!Ahahahahahahaahahahahaahahahaahahahahaahahahahahaahahahahahhahhahhahhhaha!” Monokuma's laugh echoed off the ceiling. Prolonging the suffering to their ears.

“Ah......oh right. Don't worry your pretty little heads about clean up. I went a head and made the interns handle that. Okay? Good. Now run along~ It's been an oh so long day~”

They all headed to the elevator.

The bodies had been cleaned up by the time they got back to the dorms.

Rantaro had expected no one to say anything as they parted.

“Miso and chicken soup tomorrow. Light on the stomach.”

“How....can you think about food right now?” Ryuji stared at Roxas bug eyed. The shorter of the two snorted.

“Happy thoughts anger ugly Tanuki.”

“Extra carrots.” Kimiko requested. Grabbing his key to his room. “I'll be playing solitaire if anyone-”

He had a yellow ball of fur on his shoulder before he could finish.

“....We'll be playing kings in the corner. Doubt I'll sleep tonight.”

The door was left open as they headed into the room.

Rantaro didn't think much when he followed after them. He wasn't going to pretend he could sleep either.

Everyone filed in. Deciding unanimously being alone wasn't preferable right now.

The girls left around two in the morning when they finally felt tired enough. Kimiko hung by his door watching the hall. When Sullivan asked him, the Werecat replied.

“There's something off about that sixteenth seat.”

Rantaro didn't hear her reply. The yellow cat on his lap was cuddling him to drowsiness.

His head didn't hit anything as he finally fell asleep.