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Chapter Text

Prolouge:

I woke up on the floor of an unknown room. Ugh...My head is pounding. It felt like it a door being banged on repeatedly. Was I fighting a monster before getting brought here? Was this the Sky Pirates doing?

I look around to get to a better look at my surroundings. I was in a dojo like bedroom. The walls were wooden yet underneath were heavy brick walls. Possibly steel titanium underneath that. There was a weapon rack as well, however the weapons on them were flimsy cheap plastic fakes. In the closet there were a few outfits. How did they know my size? Whoever brought me here must have spied on me for auite awhile to learn this much... I looked to the other side of the room to see what else this room held. A desk drawer with a mirror. A lamp was on there with a notebook too. I opened a few drawers to only find more notebooks and pens. Geez, now I can write my life story to pass the time. The only other things in the room were the bed with warm cotton sheets and two fluffied pillows. On the bed, there was a note addressed to me. I went over to the bed and picked the note up. Hopefully reading this will provide me some answers.

"Greetings, Mao Mao Mao,Ultimate Heroic Sheriff! I'm so honored to have you be a part of my Special Game! I have gathered Sixteen players with Ultimate Talents to play too! No worries~ All will be revealed in time. For now, why don't you go to the Dinner Hall of Pure Heart Academy! Thank you for enrolling! See ya soon!"

-Signed Headmaster

Pure Heart Academy? I am a grown man, why would I enroll in a school? I might as well meet the others in the Dinner Hall. I hope I knew a few of the players.

I left what I suppose my dorm room and went to the Dinner Hall. Thankifully, my room is the closest to the Dinner Hall. As I entered I saw the fifteen other people in the hall, these might be the other players that the note spoke of. I should introduce myself even if I know most of the players here. I decided to start off with a close friend mine. One I worked briefly with.

I walked over to a female tanuki with pinkish red fur. Her eyes were turquoise. Like most tanukis, she had black fur on her ears, circular patches around her eyes, her arms, her feet, and even on the tip of her tail. White muzzle and chest fur. On both her cheeks were two black whiskers. However unlike the usual light green short cape that she wore like a scarf, she wore something new. A light green crop top shirt and a light green draped skirt.

"Heya Mittens! Didn't expect to see you here. Maybe you aren't such a funduddie after all. Don'tcha worry, I won't tell your boss" She chuckled

"For the last time Keys, I AM NOT A FUNDUDDIE!!!! You never change!! Also it's Mao Mao Mao, Ultimate Heroic Sheriff!" I could see that she was still the same. This was an annoyance as well as a relief.

"Ooooh, you got a talent too? You never cease to amaze me. Well since you told me yours then I suppose knowing mine is only fair. Tanya Keys, Ultimate Bounty Hunter! If there's a bounty then I'm your hunter!" She winked at me

"Do you remember how we got here? What game we mysteriously got ourselves in? Why we're enrolled in a school that never existed till now? Anything Tanya?" Hopefully she had more insight on this then I do.

"Sorry Mittens. I arrived after waking up in a room. I even woke up in these clothes. They are pretty comfortable but I prefer my scarf. Ask around. Someone here may know something. Anyways, I'm glad to see a friendly face Mittens" Tanya smiled softly to me

"Same here, Keys" I smiled back. Glad to know I got a friend here.

I made my way to the next introduction. I saw someone eatting a plateful of beginets. My smile grew as I made my way to them. I'm so glad that my best friend and co-hero is here!!

Sitting at the table was a badger with brown and white fue. He was fairly taller than me. On his right eye there was a black eyepatch though unlike his usually one, this one seemed different. Can't tell how, just feels like it is. His left arm was a cybernetic arm prosthetic which he made himself. He wasn't wearing his light brown bandolier rather something new just like Tanya. He wore a puffy light green vest with a backpack which seems filled with parts and various tools.

"Oh hey there Mao Mao! Can you believe it? They have an endless supply of beginets here! Man, this place rocks!" He didn't seem concern about their current situation, more excited about food. Same ol' Badgerclops.

"Badgerclops, do you remember how we got here exactly?" I asked, silently hoping he had answers.

"Nah bro. Though I woke up in my dorm with these on" He gestures to his new outfit. "Guess it has something to do with my Ultimate" He rubbed the back of his head, chuckling.

"What is your Ultimate? Mine is Ultimate Heroic Sheriff" I sat down next to him to rest my legs a bit

"Badgerclops,Ultimate Creative Genius!" He boasted proudly.

He really does deserve that title for all the hardwork he puts in his creative inventions. Maybe he can create something to learn more about this place. I really need someone to tell me what this place is and how we got here.

I noticed that one of the players was heading my way. I sighed a bit since he's a bit of a dull personality. I would know. He happens to be my therapist.

He was an anthropomorphic light blue dog. His ears droop below his eyes and he has a heart shaped, dark turquoise nose. His eyes resemble squashed ovals. He has a big patch of dark blue on his left eye, ear, his back, and his tail. He wore a sleek black suit that contained a ballpoint pen with a small notebook in the right chest pocket. He also wore a dark blue tie with turquoise stripes.

"Greetings Sheriff. It's good to see you here. Frankly I have no memory of enrolling here nor how this place came to be. Prehaps if we investigate together, then we might find a few answers to these questions that eludes our minds" He greeted, he let out his hand to me for a proper handshake.

I accepted it. "Good to see you again, Ol' Blue. It seems like everyone I ask doesn't remember either. Though as the Ultimate Heroic Sheriff, I'll protect everyone here"

"Then as the Ultimate Therapist, I will do my part to assist you" He did a slight bow before joining me at the table.

"Can't you use hypnosis to try to retrieving our lost memories?" That's a therapy method right?

"Normally, yes. However without knowing what exactly happened to us, that wouldn't help much" Ol' Blue sighed and sipped the cup of tea he had with him

Welp, there goes that plan.

"Excuse me....Sheriff" I turned to face the owner of the voice

Before me was the local baker of Pure Heart Valley. A small yellow mouse with pink heart-shaped patches on her cheeks. She had big ears and a long thin tail. She wore her usual blue apron. There was flour covering her ears and a batter stain on her apron which resembles a doughy heart.

"Is everything okay Muffet? As the Ultimate Heroic Sheriff, I will keep you safe!" I met her at eye level before offering her a seat close to me.

"Sheriff Mao Mao, I'm scared.... How did we all get here? What is this place?" Muffet sniffle a bit. Poor women was scared.

"I don't know Muffet... Though we will learn more soon. I assume your Ultimate is about baking?" I guessed

"Yes" She smiled a bit from hearing me talk about Ultimates. "I'm Muffet, Ultimate Baker."

"While we're here, I hope you'll share your delicious baked goods. I think everyone would love them" I spoke as I reassure her.

"Right...I'll whip up some of my delicious baked goods right away! I'll make you some cobbler later. How does that sound?" Looks like she's happy again.

Cobbler?! Maybe this place won't be so bad. At least there are all of friendly faces here. Key words: Most!

"Aw great! This is just great!! First I woke up here in this weird building, someone had the nerve to change my armor into this! Now I'm here with my most hated enemy!!" A voice was storming towards me.

Ugh...He's here too? Great...

There before me was Orangusnake. A fusion of a King Cobra named Coby and an Orangutan named Tanner. Though his outfit had in fact been altered. His armor's shoulders and knees were removed and altered to turn the remainder of the armor into a makeshift pirate's outfit. He kept the crown and cape though. Well now he looks more like an actual pirate.

"You better not have been the one to trap us here, Orangusnake! I wouldn't have expected you to snoop as low as this! I swear as Ultimate Heroic Sheriff, I will assure if this is your doing, I will make you pay" I threatened him. He must know something about this. I just know it.

"Do you honestly think I trap myself with you if I planned all of this?!" He hissed at me. "I'm the Ultimate Pirate! Orangusnake will not be caged like an animal!" He really didn't seem to know anything.

Guess Orangusnake is innocent for now. Doesn't mean that he doesn't know anything about how we got here. Guess back to introductions.

At the table next to the one I was at, there were a lovey dovey couple there. Holding each other paws. Each comforting the other and vice versa. I recognize them instantly since I attended their wedding. Even if Orangusnake officially married them instead of me. They also wore matching cute outfits.

The boy was a floppy-eared cream yellow dog with a chubby face as well as some sort of whiskers. He had black round eyes. His usual red collar with the light orange diamond tag seems to be transformed into a rather stylish tie. He wore a pink suit that had a cream yellow hankerchief in the suit coat pocket. He wore a golden ring on his left paw nub.

The girl was a floppy-eared pink dog with a chubby face that had freckles on each side. Her usual blue collar with the round yellow tag seemed to be transform into a silk bow around her neck. She wore a cream yellow dress with a yellow headband. She wore a golden ring on her right paw nub.

"Well if it isn't Penny and Benny. How are you two doing? Mind sharing your Ultimates?" They seem to be taking the situation better than I am.

"Hello Sheriff, I'm Penny, Ultimate Wife" Penny smiled as she still was holding Benny hand

"H-hello Sheriff, I'm Benny, Ultimate Husband" Benny appears to be as timid as ever. Guess Penny will be talking for the both of them.

"You two are clearly the "Perfect Couple" after all" I chuckled as I remembered their wedding day as clear as day.

That day will never really be forgotten either.

"We woke up in these strange outfits. The acceptance letter never spoke of this" Benny shook a bit as he squeezed Penny's hand a bit tighter for reassurance.

Acceptance letter? Finally a solid clue!

"Do you have the letter on you, Benny? It could hold the key to finding out how we got here" Maybe I can see who put us in this so called academy.

"I lost it..." He looked sad. Disappointed really.

Grr... I know this isn't Benny fault. That letter could have really brought some insight on how we got here. Did we really enroll here? An Acceptance Letter means we all really did enroll here at one point.

"Do you two remember when Pure Heart Academy first started?" I didn't really expect to get any answers.

However another voice happened to answer my question.

"I believe it was three months ago. We vaguely remember signing the documents to have the building created. However we don't remember who requested it though. Nor why we woke up in these garments. Quite detailed as as well" I turned to see the very king of Pure Heart Valley before me.

I bowed immediately out of respect. He is still my king. Cowardly or not, I will protect and serve as Ultimate Heroic Sheriff.

"At ease Sheriff. We, Snugglemagne the Ultimate King request you not treat us so formally. We are now teammates now" He warmily smiled at me.

Snugglemagne was a creamed colored lionwith a coral pink mane. Only me and Badgerclops actually know that his mane is really a wig. On his face was a mole. Now that I got a better look at him, I realized his nose ressembles a heart. On his head he wore a golden crown with a ruby heart in it's middle. A deep lavender cape with fine white fur trim which featured black speckles in the shape of mini hearts. Puffy light blue pants with yellow inseams. He also wore some sort of sash or belt around his waist with a raiper with a ruby heart on it's helm. The only other new thing I noticed about him was the wedding ring he wore on his left ring finger. ....WHEN DID HE GET MARRIED?! WHO did he get married to?! More importantly, WHY wasn't I invited?!

"My liege, you're married?! When and to whom?" Did I get hit that hard?

"Oh, me and Moonflower got engaged a while ago. We had a private wedding. Just the two of us" He blushed at the memory. Must have been quite the wedding.

"Moonflower?" Never heard of that person or even that name before.

"That would be me, Mao Mao. It was certainly been a while, hasn't it Mao Mao Mao" That voice caused me to go pale.

No...not her...Anyone but her!

A gray Eurasian wolf with white bliss pupils. On her leftcheek there were two scars. She work a dark blue suit top and medium length jean pants. On her right side, there was a pouch purse that seemed to be made by Snugglemagne. On her right ring finger was a wedding ring. Her tail was silk like but she seem ready to slap me with it too. So she married Snugglemagne, huh...

"Well if it isn't Night Wolfessa. Haven't seen you in months. Thought you finally croaked" I couldn't stand her at all. I already could guess her talent. "I'm guessing youre the ultimate rival, right?"

"Well you nearly hit the target there, Ultimate Heroic Sheriff. However you are still far off. "Night Luna Wolfessa, Ultimate Villianess. Though I usually go by "Noches". Villianess I may be but I will keep everyone safe. I don't like this place one bit" Night growled. Guess she isn't responsible either.

"Night, when and how did you marry the king? You used your eye powers didn't you?! How dare you manipulate him! You no go-" Just as I was ready to let her have it, Snugglemagne cut me off.

"We married her and she never used her eye powers on me. We do not appreciate the tone you took with her. She is a lady and will be treated as such. Is that clear?!" The king glared at me with much disappointment.

He really did love her,huh. Maybe this will help both of them better for each other. Snugglemagne could certainly us some.

"Clear..." I spoke through my teeth

"Good, now apologize to Night" Snugglemagne crossed his arms as he waited for me to do as he ordered.

"What?! Heck no! I will never in my life apologize to that no good villianess!" Like I ever do something like that.

"Sheriff! Apologize now!!" Snugglemagne demanded, now furious.

"It's fine. I don't really care about what others think of me. Such a life of a villianess. We should focus more on how we got here" Night took Snugglemagne's arm and the two left to another table.

For once I agree with her. So the one who got Snugglemagne to sign the documents is the one whose behind all this. As I was lost in thought, I had the feeling someone was creeping behind me. I turned to see someone who should be in jail for his crimes.

"Rufus, if you try anything then I will break your arm" I warned before facing me.

Geez... Is this "Gather all my Enemies day"?

Rufus is a reddish orange fox with yellow eyes. Much like most of the people here, he had different outfit. Stolen or con someone for it I bet. He wore a pale white blazer with a soft turquiose shirt underneath. He wore pale white pants to match. On his head was a white fedora with a turquoise silk ribbon around it. Around his neck was a golden chain that he most likely con out of some poor sap.

"Well, well. If it isn't the goodie two shoes Sheriff. What's wrong, no real crime in the valley of clueless saps?" Rufus wore that smug look at me. " I bet as the Ultimate Con Man, I'll get a bunch of vaubles" He eyed everyone in the room. His eyes locked on their valuables.

"As Ultimate Heroic Sheriff, I'll make sure your pockets stay empty!" I growled. "Why are you even here? Thought we traumatized you so badily that you wouldn't dare step foot in the valley ever again. Why come back?" I would have to keep a very close eye on him. A Very close eye on this criminal.

He scoffed and leaves to chat with Muffet.

That makes eleven players so far. Well including me then it's twelve so far. I should find the remaining four. Best to keep a head count in situations such as this. Thankifully two of them were having a conversation close by. Unfortunately both currently hold a grudge on me.

The first was a light orange lop-eared rabbit. He wore a pair of vermilion overalls with a vermilion hat. He had a few dirt stains on his face from fieldwork. He was even chewing a piece of straw.

The second had slanted closed eyes and a buck tooth. She wore a dentist/doctor coat with a dark blue shirt underneath. Upon her face was a pair of purple cat eye glasses. She was a teal squirrel. In her coat pockets were various tools used by doctors and dentists.

The moment they noticed me...I recieved some slight glares. Seems like that answers the question if they were still upset with me.

"Hey Farmer Bun... Dr. Cuddlestien... how are you two doing?" I asked nervously

"Oh howdy there Sheriff" Farmer Bun expression turned more cheerful all of a sudden.

Maybe he isn't as upset as I thought he be. He probably has forgiven me by now. It was just thousands of dollars in property damage. No big deal, right? He did hate me too...

"Hey there Farmer Bun, good to see you here. May I ask you what your "Ultimate" is?" I tried not to upset him since I just made it back on his good side again.

"I'm Farmer Bun, Ultimate Farmer. I grow the most finest and delicious vegetables in all the valley. So I'll be in charge of our food as long as their crops, Heyuk" He chuckles

"Glad no one has to worry about food shortage with you" I offer him another smile

He returned the smile before hopping off to join Muffet and Ol' Blue in friendly chatter.

That left me alone with Dr.Cuddlestien. Her glare got me sweating bullets. Why did Farmer Bun left me alone? Wait... I slowly turn to see a diabolical smirk on the farmer's face. He did still held a grudge against me!

"Sheriff." I gulped before turning my attention back to the doctor.

"Hello Dr.Cuddlestien" Trying not to panic here.

"You may be a sheriff, but that doesn't excuse you from hospital damage. Even though you are banned from my hospital, I will treat you as the Ultimate Doctor. In the future, please don't cause any conflicts in my medical room" She spoke rather calmly.

"So are we all good about what happened?" I asked hopefully

"Oh no, far from forgiveness. You never really paid for the destruction that you caused. My staff are still looking for that missing egg's parents" She glared

I'm sure that Penny and Benny adopted that egg. Maybe the Doc should ask them.

"Wait...aren't you also the Valley's dentist as well? Shouldn't your Ultimate would revolve around both?" I asked curiously

"I mave a major degree in my medical field as a doctor and a minor degree in my medical field as a dentist. I suppose they made my major degree my Ultimate based on that. However I can still perform dental procedures as a dentist as well" Dr. Cuddlestien explains while cleaning her glasses with her coat.

Well at least we got a doctor in case of emergencies. That makes thirteen players besides me. Just two more till I meet everyone enrolled here. Where are the last two at?

I scope around the room till I spot them. One was chatting with Badgerclops while the other was sulking in the corner of the Dinner Hall. After a bit of thought, I went over to the one sulking in the corner first. They look like the youngest one here.

A kid,huh?

They were wearing a long black cloak with a glass prop mask painted with a sad expression. The cloak covered their entire body so I couldn't tell any other details about them. Kind of creepy if you ask me. Though they were still a kid... I have to help them feel welcome.

"Hey there" I smiked at them.

They didn't respond. It was hard to tell if they were honestly looking at me due to the mask. I assume they are at least.

"I'm Mao Mao Mao, Ultimate Heroic Sheriff. What's your name, kid?" I kneeled down to their level

"I'm Sorrow, Ultimate Sadness" Their voice lack any emotions or characteristics. Just plain monotone. Was this an actual kid or a robot?

"Ultimate Sadness? So you're constantly sad? That's pretty depressing, no offense" I rubbed the back of my neck. Unsure what to say next.

"I can only ever feel sad. No joy, anger, or pain. Just sadness. No offense taken. It's actually a compliment to someone like me. Thank you" They looked up at me. At least I think they are.

"You're welcome...." That made me feel bad and a bit uneasy

Sorrow left to a small table with only a single chair. Guess the kid is a loner. Maybe Badgerclops and I can help the kid out. Seeing Tanya go to the kid and chat with them gave me hope.

Now to meet the last player and then we could figure out how we all got in this bizarre place. Last I checked, they were talking with Badgerclops. From the looks of it...they seem to get along well. Fast friends I guess.

There was a white wolf with black and light blue patches of fur. He wore some dark tinted shades that concealed his eyes well. He wore a red hoodie with two gear designs on the top corners. He wore some long jeans that nearly covered his cybernetic legs but he also had a cybernetic tail too. They seemed even more advanced than Badgerclops. He seemed troubled by something too. Badgerclops seems to be helping him though. So he should be good.

"So you use light platinum alloy for your cybernetics? Awesome! I been using reinforced steel since my robo arm tends to overheat at times. How do you keep that from happening with yours?"

"I have a few high quality mirco cooling units installed. I can provide you with some if you're interested"

"Wow, awesome!! That would be super helpful!!"

"No problem. I'm glad to help"

I seemed to have walk into Badgerclops and the cybernetic wolf conversation. They seem to both like chatting about inventing and improving their cybernetics too. It's good to see them so happy.

"Hey Badgerclops, whose your new friend?' I sat across from them

The wolf hid behind Badgerclops. Did I scare him or is he really shy?

"Don't worry Cyber. This Is Mao Mao Mao, the Ultimate Heroic Sheriff. He's my best friend. Mao Mao, this is Cyber. He has amnesia and can only remember his creations and name. I'm going to help him get those memory back" Badgerclops coaxed Cyber to come back to his seat.

"So you probably don't know how we got here?" I growled under my breath

"Sorry...." Cyber turned away. He hid his face in Badgerclops's flesh arm

Badgerclops shot me a glare while comforting Cyber.

I didn't mean to upset him. I need to apologize.

"Sorry Cyber. I've just been trying to figure out how we all got here since no one seems to really know. I'm just frustrated since no one knows anything. It's not you. Sorry"My ears droop slightly

"I understand. I'm just overly emotional since losing my memories.... Cyber Clawberry, Ultimate ??? What was my talent? How did I lose my memories? Why can't I remember?" Cyber tears up more. He seems really broken up about this.

I got another glare from Badgerclops. This one was filled with much more anger. He then pulled Cyber into a comforting hug and whispered soothing words in his ear.

Just as I was going to say something, an announcement was heard from the loudspeaker.

"Bing Bong, Ding Dong"

"May I have all players please come to the Meeting Room for opening annoucement. Please don't be late~" I couldn't recognize the owner of the voice.

Could possibly be the one that brought us all here. Might as well meet the culprit. We all made our way to the Meeting Room to meet this mysterious person. I couldn't help but feel a sudden chill down my spine.

As we all entered the room, it was all pitch black. I could normally see in the dark , yet I could see nothing in the room at all.

Then the sounds of drumroll echoed through the room. I looked around to find the source with no luck. Brief flashes of spotlights only revealed a silhouette on stage. A rather small figure. Then the lights turned on, revealing a baby monster. One all to familiar to Badgerclops and myself.

"B-bobo-chan?!" Badgerclops gasps

The monster before us was indeed Bobo-chan yet she looked altered, not in a good way either. On her left side of her entire body was completely normal. A normal turquiose reptilian monster baby with a dark blue fin, yellow eye with a blue patch over it. Even her left arm looked exactly like Badgerclops robo arm. Though on the right side of her body was all chaotic and evil looking. Her entire right side was black with a scarred right eye that somehow glew a bright red. She wore a small golden yellow bow on her fin. If this was somehow Bobo-chan, then how is she like this?

"Nope~ I am the Ultimate Headmaster, Mono-chan! Now le-" Before Mono-chan could finish, Badgerclops rushed up and hugged her.

"Oh Bobo! I missed you so much!" Badgerclops just nuzzled Mono-chan tearfully. "I thought I never see you again. I don't know how you're a baby again or why you look like this, but I'm still happy to see my adopted daughter!"

Everyone was shocked after hearing that. Well all except for me since I already knew this.

"Look big guy, I ain't your daughter! I'm Mono-Chan! Though the hug is pretty comfy so I'll let it slide. Now get off me so I can tell you and the others the announcement" She wiggled her way out of his grip. She didn't sound mean but it did cause Badgerclops to shed a few sad tears.

Tanya went over to comfort him.

"What kind of announcement?" I askec Mono-chan. A bit of anger in my tone for that little monster making my best friend cry.

"Calm down. I will explain right now. You're really impatient huh, Sheriff? First you all are here to participate in my favorite game~ "A Killing Game~" Her tone was so sickly sweet that it made all of sick.

"K-killing Game?! Certainly, you jest, Ms.Mono-chan" Snugglemagne pales and sweated bullets. Night was comforting him but she seemed shaken up by the news as well.

"Do I look like I'm joking, Cowardly lion? Anyways now for the rules~" Mono-chan snickered

"Like heck we're playing this so call "Killing Game"! Rufus growled " So get lost little pest!" He tried to leave the Meeting Room but the moment he touch the door, he was shocked so hard that his paw got electrical burn. "AAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!! IT HURTS!! MY PAW!! IT HURTS!!" He cries in pain as he held his burned paw.

Dr. Cuddlestien rushed to his side. She immediately went to examine and treated his injury.

"That happens if any of you tries to leave the game or refuse to listen to me. Let's say Rufus here got my lightest punishment really. So basically you play or face my mini games! Now any other objections?" She seemed like she wanted someone to object.

Everyone went silent. Rufus getting electrical burn was enough to get the message in. We were officially trapped here and forced to play Mono-Chan's sick twisted game. My stomach felt sick.

"Good, Least you all know how to listen. Now back to what I was saying beforehand. I'll go over all of Mono-chan's Precious Rules~. 1. All players are to attend morning, afternoon, and evening announcements. Any players who miss them will be playing my games. 2. Days start at 7:30pm and end at 9:00 sharp. Players must be in rooms by then. Sleeping. NO LEAVING AFTER 9! 3. No one can ever make any attempts to harm Mono-Chan. 4. No attempts to escape. Believe me, it's impossible hehe~ 5. You all are free to roam around the academy with some some restrictions. 6. The academy is your new home now to the game officially ends. 7. Anyone who kills a fellow player and becomes a "Blackened" will advance, unless they are discovered. 8. I can add any rule to the game at any time I want" Mono-Chan giggled as she went over the rules.

"How are we suppose to remember all these rules?! Orangusnake demanded "Write them in a little notebook?!" He asked sarcastically

Ol'Blue already got them down in his notebook. How did he write all that so fast?

Mono-chan then went around and handed each of us a special phone that's case looked exactly like her. " Here is your Monophones. It contains the rules, a map of the academy, basic information on you all. As a bonus, it has a mini game that gives you actual gifts!" She smiles which revealed her sharp fang like teeth. "I'll see you all tomorrow for Morning annoucement. Enjoy~"

With that, Mono-chan left us to process what we just heard. We are now apart of a killing game. One where we have no memory how we got here. Now a psycho monster baby wanting us to play for amusement. I don't know what lies ahead in this "Killing Game", though as the Ultimate Heroic Sheriff... I, Mao Mao will keep everyone safe. No one is going to be killed I swear it. We will all survive this game without a single loss! "No killing!!" I will prevent this game as long as I can!

Chapter Text

Daily Life Part 1:

It was the day after Mono-chan began our "Killing Game". Sleep didn't help numb the fear of this whole mess either. The time was nearly 7:30 am, though I was always an early riser so I was already up. Trying to think of a way to prevent this sick game before someone got killed. We couldn't leave or disobey since Mono-chan showed what happens if we try. Our only real option would be to stall the game. I already read the rules several times and nowhere did it say "All players are forced to kill". Which means we would only be trapped here. I nodded to myself that it was the best strategy to keep everyone safe till there is a true means of escape.

My Monophone alarm chimed which meant it was time to face our first day at this academy.

"Bing Bong, Ding Dong! Good Morning players! Please make your way to the Dinner Hall for your announcement and breakfast! Don't be late~" Mono-chan voice echoed through the entire academy.

Ugh, like we honestly have a choice in the matter. Well I could share my plan with everyone there. Plus maybe Muffet made that cobbler she said she would! I freshen up a bit before making my way to the Dinner Hall.

Everyone was there. No one wanted to play Mono-chan torture games, no surprise there. Prehaps I should check up on Rufus. No one seen him since yesterday's news. After Dr.Cuddlestien treated him, Rufus went straight to his room. Guess if I got shock burn then I want to be alone too. Even for a con man, no one deserves that level of cruelty.

Today's breakfast was omelets, fruit salads, as well as a variety of juices and coffees. No creams or milk though. Strange though it's not really a big deal. I don't like anything in my coffee anyways. I got my omelet and coffee before finding a table to sit at. Found a seat where Tanya, Badgerclops, Sorrow, and Cyber. I would share my plan with them first.

"Heya Mittens! How did you sleep?" Tanya seemed more cheerful then I figured she be. Did yesterday not faze her at all?

She certainly is stronger than me in this situation.

"I got some. Tanya, how in the world are you this calm? We are literally trapped in a Killing game!" I wish I had that ability.

"Cuz I know you'll keep us safe, Ultimate Heroic Sheriff. I trust you'll protect us Mittens!" She took a bite of my omelet with a playful smirk.

"I will!" I promised, taking a bite of her omelet as revenge. "Mm! Tasty!"

She gave a slight glare before giggling a bit.

"Anyways I think I have a plan to prevent this game. We all refuse to kill. Technically there is no rule that forces us to kill." I sipped my coffee.

"But Mao, Mono-chan is clever enough to keep us trapped here. She probably has a way to make us kill. How could my precious Bobo-chan do anything like this? WHO DID THIS TO MY DAUGHTER?!" Badgerclops sobbed as his face hit the table. Cyber rubbed his back in small circles to soothe him.

Badgerclops seem to be taking this the worst out of all of us. Even if it was a brief time, he raised Bobo-chan like his own daughter. Whoever did this to her was clearly the true culprit behind this. The real Mastermind. However Badgerclops had a good point too. After all, rule eight makes it so she can make any rule she wanted. Though is a forced Killing Game really fun for her?

Speak of the devil....

"Morning everyone! I hope you all are enjoying your breakfast. Anyways how's the paw, Con man?" She snickered while Rufus growled hatefully towards Mono-chan.

Where the heck did she come from?!

"You monstrous reptilian brat! You nearly left me with only one paw! Don't you DARE patronize me-" Before Rufus could say anymore, Orangusnake stopped him.

"I know you're mad but...She shouldn't be provoke. Just let it go" He managed to calm Rufus down. Guess Orangusnake can make good choices.

"Hehe~ Oh, still mad? Why? Technically Rufus got hurt himself" She giggled which only rekindled Rufus rage

"WHO ELECTRIFIES A DOOR?!" He yelled at Mono-chan as he balled up a fist

"I have players that may want to make a quick escape, duh. Geez for some con man you ain't too bright. No wonder you got your butt handed to you by a five year old" She laughed. Her laughter was a really terrifying thing to hear. Never like anything I heard before either.

Yet she did have a point as much as I hated to admit it. Tanya, myself, and even Rufus are known to make rather quick getaways. Guess setting deadly traps everywhere would be the only way to keep us here.

"So back to the anannoucement. I sadly can't make a rule to make y'all kill. However I can give you motives to persuade you all to kill. Oh~ It's so much excitement! Seeing friend betray friend! Bond severe by greed and despair! I simply can't wait~" Mono-chan seemed thrilled

So she can't force us! Ha I knew it! No motive is worth killing as long as we don't give in to Mono-chan's ways. I know there was a loophole!

"I have a really juicy motive to start this game! A few of my agents have capture someone truly dear to each and everyone of you" She turned to me. "A cute five year old sweetypie that inspires to be a hero. A daughter in your eyes"

No....NO! NO! Leave Adorabat out of this!!

"A crew which one considers family" She walked past Orangusnake who paled immediately after hearing that

"M-my crew.....My...precious crew..." He seems really scared now

Not that I can blame him. His crew are possibly the only friends and the close ones he treats as a family.

Mono-chan is going too far! How does she have this much power?! How does she even know all this about this?!

"A racoon assistant that is a con man's only friend" Mono-chan looked at Rufus with a diabolical look.

Rufus growled with firy. "Reg is not to be involved in this! These two goodie two shoes heroes have traumatized his sanity enough! He's been through enough!"

Maybe we did go a bit overboard that day. Yet it was still a bit funny. Though they still deserve it for trying to scam Adorabat and the sweetypies of Pure Heart Valley.

"A child or dear friend" Everyone else paled after hearing Mono-chan spoke those words

"May I ask how you know all this about us? I highly doubt that you somehow stumbled upon such personal information by complete chance. So whose your source" Seems like Night and me shared the same thought for once.

"Well, well, that's the Ultimate Villianess for ya. Though my lips are sealed for now. Back to the motive~ If there isn't a murder in the next three days, I kill all the ones you all hold dear. Tick Tock, countdown begons now" With that, Mono-chan vanished

How does she keep doing that? Is she teleporting or have hidden escape ways? Ugh... she's really getting on my nerves. Great with this motive it will be harder to convince no one to kill. I got three days to stop this. There must be a way!

"If anyone should kick the bucket, why not the most suspicious ones. Orangusnake, Rufus, and Night are the ones who pose the most threat to us" Farmer Bun glared at the three.

"Excuse me?!" Night returned the glare back. Orangusnake and Rufus were right behind her. "We may be villains and are dangerous. Well I am at least"

"Hey!" Orangusnake and Rufus were offended

"That doesn't mean we should be the only ones on the hitlist! Mao Mao has a golden katana and Badgerclops robo arm is practically his own freaking armory!" Night points out

"Well she does make a fair case..." Ol'Blue spoke while comforting Muffet who seemed really shaken up about this.

I should chat with her once I get a chance.

"We could do a buddy system" Cyber suggested. He was still hiding behind Badgerclops. Guess he is just super shy around others

"I agree with Cyber. This way we are all monitoref and can change up every two hours till we have to go to our rooms for the night. Any objections?" Badgerclops and Cyber must have planned this before I got here. Smart move.

"Guess we should pick the pairs then" Dr.Cuddlestien seemed to agree with the plan.

After a half an hour, we formed the first pairs. The pairs were: Me and Rufus. Tanya and Sorrow. Night and Muffet. Orangusnake and Ol'Blue. Penny and Benny. No brainer there, plus they begged not to be separated. They may stay a permanent pair. Cyber and Farmer Bun. Then Snugglemagne and Dr. Cuddlestien. Badgerclops kept an eye on Mono-chan.

However....I realize that we only make a total of seven. According to the note there was suppose to be sixteen of us minus Mono-chan. Then what happen to the last and final player? I'll investigate it more when I'm paired with Tanya or Badgerclops. That or I ask Mono-chan during the next annoucement.

For now, Rufus and I spent sometime exploring the academy. This may be the best time to get to know more about him.

"How's your paw doing?" I asked as we walked down the halls

"The doctor says it will heal though I won't be able to use it like I did before. Too much nerve damage...." He looked at bandaged paw. "Ugh...I really hate that Mono-brat!"

"Sorry to hear that. May I ask you something?" Now which question would be the best to ask him

"What is it that you want to know? I feel like I'm in an interrogated anyways. Though I can't really escape this, so ask away" He seems alright with it.

Doubt he'll honestly tell me the actual truth since he is always sprouting lies. Yet what does that matter for this question. One out of my own curiousity.

"How did you and Reggie meet? Did you meet him on one of your schemes or were you two childhood friends?" That question been on my feline mind since meet the two the first time.

Rufus eyes widen a bit. Could this be a sensitive topic for him? Was this not the time for this question? Too soon?

"You don't hav-"Rufus put his good paw up to stop me from continuing.

"We were orphans... Can't really remember that day exactly but I found Reg on the streets. At first I used him as a sort of lackie to help with a few of my schemes. Always too naive to say no, yet he was too loyal to rat me out. As time passed and the more time we spent together.....he was no longer my lackie. He became my closest friend and is possibly the only family I have in this world. So I'm terrified that if the motive isn't fulfilled soon then...." He turn his gaze away from me as he attempted to hid his place. Trying to conceal the small tears that procked at his yellow eyes.

He seemed to be truly geniune or was a greater actor than me. Lying or not, it was clear that he really cared about his friend. This motive must really be eatting away at him.

"We'll think of something Rufus! We have three days to stop this from happening" I placed my gloved paw on his shoulder to reassure him. "I'm sure our friends that have been captured are sure that we'll save them. Reggie knows that his brother will save him right?" I offered him a small smile

Rufus looked straight at me in silence for a bit. Then just nodded. "Heh, maybe you aren't so bad Sheriff"

I believed that Rufus and I grew a bit closer due to this. We kept wandering the halls till it was nearly to change pairs.

Though I remember that I won a few prozes from the minigame on the Monophone. One which I think will ease Rufus and bring him some comfort in this time.

"Here" I gave them a small racoon plushie

It was poorly made with stuffing leaking out of it's tail and it was a bit dirty. Yet it looked alot if not a perfect copy to Reggie. A grey racoon plushie with dark patches over it's baby blue button eyes. Soft lavender fabric made the eyebrows. Two pairs of whiskers underneath it's nose. It wore a turquiose baseball cap on it's head and a turquiose scarf tied around it's neck.

"A plushie? Do I look like a toddler to you?" He shot me a look of annoyance

"No! I just think that this may help you feel comfort. So you feel that Reg is with you in someway" I explained

Rufus ears perked up. He looked very touched by this as he held the plush close.

"Well I suppose I can keep it as a reward for sharing my past. A prize for my tale" He stored it in his blazer. "Thanks"

I nodded.

Soon everyone gathered in the Meeting Room to form the second pairs for the day. Ol'Blue suggested that it be more ideal than the previous two hour swap idea. We still had about a few hours before the 2:00 Afternoon Annoucement, so we all had some time to kill before then.

The next pairs seemed a bit strange. Tanya and Rufus. Night and Dr. Cuddlestien. Penny and Benny. Again, they begged. Truly inseparable. Sorrow and Ol'Blue. Badgerclops and Orangusnake. Cyber and Muffet. Finally, Farmer Bun and myself. Snugglemagne tasked himself to monitored Mono-chan.

I started to sweat bullets down my black fur. I could feel his glare from behind me.

"Heya Sheriff! Would ya like to help me in the garden?"

"There's a garden?" So we could go outside? Interesting!

"Sure is! Soil just perfect for crops! I was just about to pick some crops right now" He smile happily for the first time since being here.

He lead the way as he hopped ahead. I followed him to a doorway which sunlight leaked from underneath. Farmer Bun opened the door to reveal a truly beautiful sight. Before my neon green eyes were luscious green shrubs of vibrate pink, yellow, and red flowers. Carrots, Potatoes, Snap Peas, Onions. There were several fruit trees: Apple, Grape, Orange, and even a Chestnut one too.

I went to pick a couple chestnuts when Farmer Bun smacked them out of my hands.

"Sheriff, are you trying to kill me?!" He yelled at me in anger

"Farmer Bun....are you allergic to chestnuts?" I was truly surprised by this.

"That I am. Only reason I don't grow any at the farm. Found out when I was just a wee bun. Quite a scary sight. Had some chestnut soup and my throat close up that if my folks didn't rush me to the hospital then I be singing in my grave. So I tend to stay clear from them chestnuts" That would explain why there were never any chestnut trees on his farm or why Muffet never made any baked goods which included any chestnuts.

"Sorry I didn't know" I apologize while picking a few apples. "Does anyone else know?"

"Just you, the doc, and Muffet. I don't really fancy sharing this with other folk" He tipped his hat to conceal his eyes. "Touchy subject it is"

"Maybe I can give him something to ease his mind. Thankfully I have just the gift in mind.

"Here Farmer Bun, I want you to have this" I handed him a packet of pumpkin seeds

The packet was a silver foil package with a picture of orange, green, and white pumpkins. It also had a picture of Mono-chan wearing a straw farmer hat. It seemed to be a cheap brand but at least it's something, right?

Hopefully I'll get better quality gifts next time I play the mini game.

"Pumpkin seeds? Golly thanks Sheriff! I've been wanting to grow pumpkins since findin this here garden" He happily took the seeds and went straight to plant them.

"No problem, Farmer Bun. I also want to apologize for what happened when I haf "The Fever", I shouldn't have destroyed your farm. Even if it did defeat the monster and help me overcome a personal struggle that burdened me since childhood. I am truly, truly sorry" Maybe I rambled a bit thete. Though it was an apologize that I meant to get to. A true hero always admits when they have made a mistake. Even if it was an unintentionally accident that unlocked a new power. Though I still owe him an apology.

"Well if I went that long without my favorite food, I guess I go fever crazy too. Suppose that there monster did more damage than a cattle stampede. Guess I can't really hold it over yer head forever. Yer still gonna owe me for your share of the damage. Sounds mighty fair, don't it Sheriff?" He seems to have really forgive me this time.

"Sounds fair to me" I nodded in agreement

I feel like my bond with Farmer Bun grew closer today.

"Bing Bong, Ding Dong! Alrighty players! The time is now 2pm. Know what that means~ Head over to the Meeting for the Afternoon annoucement! Don't be late~" Mono-chan's voice echoed from the loudspeakers in the garden

Time to get some answers.

Pretty soon, we all gathered in the Meeting Roomto hear the afternoon annoucement. I noticed while entering the room that Cyber was sobbing in Badgerclops arms. His tail was torn and sparking. There was even a bit of blood.

"Cyber what happened?! Were you attacked? Who did this to you?" I asked him, clearly worried.

"No...no one...I tripped" It was clear that he was lying. No clue why.

"Oh Cyber~ There's no need to lie. Why defend your abuser? I could just show them that Muffet isn't as sweet or innocent as she seems to be" Mono-chan came out of no where. Wait....just what did Mono-chan say?

"She didn't mean it....She got mad and just directed it at me...Please don't blame her everyone....She's just scared" Cyber defended Muffet as both Badgerclops and Dr.Cuddlestien treated his tail.

Muffet just stood there in silent

"I'll just show the footage later. Anyways the last player wants to meet all of you" Mono-chan snickered. So this is where we get to meet the mysterious final player

"Why weren't they with us beforehand? That's awfully suspicious if you ask me" Orangusnake narrowed his eyes at Mono-chan

Orangusnake does have a point though. It is pretty suspicious to meet them now instead of yesterday like the others. Could something have prevented them from meeting the rest of us?

"I am proud to introduce Kevin, Ultimate Sweetheart! The final player to our marvellous "Killing Game!" Come on out crybaby. We don't have all day!" She kicked a small figure which Night managed to catch them in her arms.

Kevin?! He's just a kid?! Why is he in this sick game?!

"WAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!!! I want my mommy!!! Kevin clinged to Night shirt as tears streamed down his eyes. He rubbed his runny nosr on her shirt.

Night allowed him to sob as she did her best to comfort the small sweetypie child. She then glared at Mono-chan angrily. "Why did you include children in this game?! How dare you hurt him!!"

Night suddenly got really overprotective over him. Wait did Mono-chan hurt Kevin?

Kevin was a young turquiose porcupine with a stubby body and short arms and legs. He had black round eyes and was buck toothed. He was wearing a blue shirt with bright orange buttons. He matched it with short blue pants. He had a long cut on his left cheek which would surely scar.

"Mono-chan, why did you hurt him?! Why did you involve him and Sorrow in this?!" I can't believe this. A Killing game that we're trapped in is bad enough. To include kids is just plain sick!

"Well crybaby here was passed out all yesterday when I tried to shut that mouth of his. As for why I included children. Well what's more agonizing then breaking a child's mental state or turning them into cold bloodied killers" Once again, Mono-chan let out her creepy laugh.

This monster before us truly held the meaning "Heartless!"

"Anyways, I hear about your little buddy system. Just wanted to say that it's an excellent idea!" Did she just congratulate us...?

Huh?

"In fact, I made a new app called "Buddy Tracker" to help you. This will record all buddy pairs and allow you to see their locations. This way y'all don't wonder who's with who. You guys can actually think, huh?" That was actually nice. Well until the insult that is.

Now we can keep records to ensure everyone safety. At least Mono-chan is giving us something helpful. Especially now with Kevin joining the group.

"Anyways, I just wanted to let you know about the crybaby and that I'm altering Rule 1. This will be the only afternoon meeting. Just morning and evening announcements from this point on. It's better this way" She seemed pretty relieved about this.

"Why the sudden change?" Ol'Blue asked "Seems pretty suspicious"

"Think I honestly wanna see your ugly mugs three times a day? No way! Now shut crybaby up and feast your eyes on this juicy little scene" Mono-chan snapped her claws to reveal a television screen.

The screen flickered on which reveal Cyber and Muffet's time in the kitchen. Muffet seemed pretty shakened up, most likely from today's motive. From the looks of it she was panicking from the stress of everything. Cyber tried to calm her down and despite his shy nature....he tried to hug her. She pushed him hard to the ground and without thinking, slams down hard on his tail with a metal rolling pin. That greatly damaged his tail. Muffet angrily screamed some things but I couldn't tell what she said due to the lack of audio. Cyber is last seen running out the kitchen with a regretful looking Muffet chasing after him as she tried to apologize. With that, the screen went black and vanished to where it came from.

So that's what happened. Muffet had no right to hurt Cyber yet her behavior isn't really unrelatable either. Any of us would snap. Hopefully not snap enough to murder.

"That's all for now~ Tick Tock on the murder clock hehe~" Mono-chan disappeared which only left us with our thoughts.

Night and Snugglemagne took Kevin out of the Meeting Room to Night's room. Badgerclops took Cyber to his room though I knew he just wanted to keep Cyber away from Muffet. As for Muffet, Ol'Blue took her to his room for a therapy session to help ease her mind. The rest of us followed their example and turned in to our rooms. No one was really up for lunch after that.

Give me some time to think. Maybe meditating would help clear these thoughts.

First this crazy motive, the last player turns out to be a five year old kid who shouldn't be here. Worst of all, we still don't have any clue on how we even got here. What I found strange is why Mono-chan chose us specifically. There is definitely more than what there seems to be.

I must have meditated for quite somsome time since Badgerclops had to get me for dinner. He wasn't very talkative the way there, or as we eat in the Dinner Hall. No one really had anything to say. After the meal is when we all returned to our rooms. Calling it a night I suppose.

All we can do is just hope everything will be better tomorrow. No one will suffer from this killing game. I swear this on all my nine lives.

"Adorabat, I'll save you. Just stay strong! We'll definitely find you, I promise" I then drifted off to sleep.

Little did I know, that someone else was up too.

........

Mono-chan faced a large black screen as she tapped her foot rather impatiently. After a few moments which felt more like forever is when the screen lit up. A figure was on the screen though it was only a silhouette. No to mention the screen constantly glitched.

Geez they needed a better connection or internet network badily. Real badily.

"Mono-chan report. How does the game go?" The voice asks

"Ugh!!! Boring!!! No murders so far, just a small fight. No excitement yet" Mono-chan pouted in annoyance.

"Calm yourself. It's only been a day so far. Though why is Kevin the final player. I chose Honey not that whiny pin cushion. Explain" They didn't seem to pleased either

"Sorry boss. One of our agents let her die so it was a last minute change. Though he may be the key to crush a couple of hopes. A few are already starting to snap with the motive. Pretty soon we'll have a body~" She snickerad a bit.

"I suppose you make a point" The voice appeared to calm down. "After all, I am the Mastermind pulling the strings~" They snickered a bit themselves. "I can feel that our players are truly feeling the despair around them. It coils around their necks as it chokes out any hopes of escape" The figure seemed rather pleased now.

"Though you'll keep our deal right?" A new voice entered the room, a mere shadow in the dimly lit room.

"As long as you work for us without the other players suspecting you then we spare you. You provided us with excellent intel. Stay useful and you'll breathing" Mono-chan promised

The figure just nodded in silence though refused to make eye contact with neither Mono-chan or the Mastermind.

One of the players was helping them. Though who is it and why?

"Meeting dismissed, I expect to be informed of any new updates or problems. Is that clear, Mono-chan?" The figure returned their attention to the altered and sick minded Bobo-chan look alike which responded with a far too eager nod.

The large television screen went black again and disappeared into the wall. Leaving Mono-chan alone with the figure. After what felt like an eternity of silence, Mono-chan spoke up.

"Could it kill you yo be less talkative. Your voice is like mails on a chalkboard. Seriously you would have been better if you were born as a mute. Just keep being useful and boss will ensure your safety. Geez, I still can't believe you joined our side. Then again, if I were you then I join the winning side too. Welp, you better go" She shooed the figure away.

"Till our next meeting" The figure left the room through the darkness. They seemed relieved to escape.

Obviously they seem to be forced to work for Mono-chan and the figure calling themselves the "Mastermind". Believing it may be a means to escape. Though who would join Mono-chan? What caused them to be a traitor? Which player would do this?

...........

"Miss Night" Kevin shook Night till she opened her blue eyes

"Kevin....? Why are you still up? Did you have a nightmare?" Night yawned a bit. She whispered quietly not to wake up her sleeping husband.

"I'm swared .... C-can I sleep here tonight?" Tears filled his black eyes as his face pleaded for her to say yes.

Night looked at the small porcupine before scopping him up in her arms. Kind of reminded her of someone she lost in her past. With what happened to him and what he was forced into, course he didn't want to be alone. Any kid his age would be scared beyond his mind. Right now he desperately needed someone to look after him as well as comfort him.

She looked at Kevin one more time. She wrapped him in a blanket before laying him on the pillow.

" You can stay here whenever you need to, Kevin. I'll look after you, promise" She patted his head

"Thank you, miss Night. This place is rwally swary....I just wanna go home....I want to see mommy and Chester again...." He teared up a bit more.

Night softly dried the little sweetheart's eyes. She couldn't really trust that Mono-chan would honestly keep her word, she obviously wasn't the more trustworthy person here. The best she could do was keep an eye on the young boy.

After all, Mao Mao couldn't handle the burden alone. Guess that made her a secret ally to him. No matter how it made her sick to her stomach. The last thing she wanted to do was help that so called hero with "daddy issues".

However....with this kind of motive, they needed to monitor everyone.

The survival of all players depends on them working together.

Yet tge thought of a killing happening because of that motive didn't disappear either. Night really hated how she viewed the negatives over the positives at times. Her lifestyle kind of had a large impact on how she viewed these types of situations. Couldn't really tell that to a kid though. Welp looks like there was only one thing to do: Lie.

"When we all get out of here, prepare to give your mommy the greatest hug ever. Nothing bad will happen to you with you stick close to me, k? Night offered Kevin the warmest smile she could

Kevin yawned a bit vefore succumbing to a much needed slumber. Nuzzling deeper into the soft blanket.

Night would have to tell Snugglemagne about this in the morning. Looks like sleep isn't coming her way tonight. The motive threaten everyone's dearest loved one. How could Mono-chan gather all this information on each of them. Not that anyone living in the valley has a social media. Okay maybe Badgerclops does.

No matter how many times she thought about it, she couldn't figure it out. There was only nine more hours till morning announcement.

"Jusr what exactly do you have on us, Mono-chan? I swear I'll figure it out and then no stupid rule will keep you safe" I closed my eyes and allowed sleep to takeover.

I can't lose another person. No ever again. Hard to admit this, but even the crueliest and dark hearted villians hold a weakness. No one is truly invincible. Mines happens to be my heart. Despite how hard my curse attempts to destroy it.

I looked at the two sweetypies once more before closing my eyes again.

By my honor as Ultimate Villianess, I'll keep everyone safe again tomorrow just as today.

Just as I promised. A promise I intend to keep!

Chapter Text

Daily Life Part 2:

I woke up with a jolt. I had a terrible nightmare that Mono-chan actually killed Adorabat. I was drenched in sweat, tears at the corner of my neon green eyes. I didn't think that the motive would get me this bad... I glanced at the Monophone to check the time. It was currently 5:47am. Still had some time before Morning Annoucement. I got up and freshen up a bit. Decided to write my worries in one of the notebooks I had in my desk. A trick that Ol'Blue taught me during our sessions.

Adorabat.... I only have two days to save her. Gotta think of something fast. All this stress isn't helping me make any proper plans. I can't fail her or all the players here. This is my burden to bare. A hero always puts others needs before their own.

Even though all I want to do is see the Valley and Adorabat right now.

"Bing Bong, Ding Dong! Heya there players~ It's your adorable headmaster Mono-chan. Please come to the Dinner Hall for breakfast and our marvellous annoucement. Don't be late~" She nearly spoke in a sing song like fashion.

All she proves is how twisted she acts in this sitation!

I went straight to the Dinner Hall where everyone else had gathered. Today's breakfast was oatmeal and toasted apple slices, I got my food and sat with Tanya, Night, Kevin, and Snugglemagne. Kevin seemed to have really warmed up to Night. A sister in his eyes.

"Look whose late. You alright, Mittens?" Tanya gave me a look of concern

"Just a rough start. Nothing I can't handle Keys" I couldn't trouble her with this.

By the looks of it, Tanya didn't believe me for a second. Though she let it go for the meantime. We would obviously talk about this later.

"Any word on how Cyber's doing?" I tried to change the subject

"He's been with Badgerclops since then. Figure Badgerclops will want to keep an eye on him. Probably why they wanted to sit by themselves today. They'll probably want to be paired up today" She looked at the two far away from our table.

"Might be for the best" I sighed while taking a bite of my oatmeal. I turned to Kevin. "How are you doing, Kevin?"

"I'm okay. Big sis Night pwomise to look after me. We're making a club" He smiled

"Oh, what type of club?" Now they got me curious

"Scar Club" Night answered, patting his head

"Oh! Can I join too? I'm not one to brag but I have quite a few battle scars myself" I boasted a bit

"No. I swear if you show him, I'll slap you Mao Mao" Night warns, helping Kevin get down from his seat.

It's kind of nice of her to be so overprotective of him. Does she have to threaten me though?

"Sheriff, it would be best not to scar Kevin anymore than he's already been" Snugglemagne seemed to agree

"I gotta agree with them here, Mittens" Great even Tanya is against me on this

Kind of shocked that Mono-chan hasn't showed up yet.

"Heya everyone!"

I just had to jinx it, didn't I?

Mono-chan appeared out of nowhere. She looked around the room to do a headcount. She appeared upset that all sixteen of us were all still alive. Kevin ran into Night's arms as he shook in fear. Snugglemagne growled at Mono-chan while Night comforted Kevin.

Those two have practically become his temporary parental figures. Heck, I rarely heard the King growl. Guess the three really warmed up to each other.

"Oh shut your whining, baby pin cushion! I should take your quills and use them as toothpicks!" Mono-chan scarred eye glew as she glared

"Leave him alone and tell us the announcement. We wish to be rid of you straight away" Snugglemagne got in front of Night and Kevin. He seemed to have enough of Kevin being bullied.

"Tch, Fine. There isn't really much of a meeting. Just like to sat a few rooms are now unlocked" She relaxed as her stopped glowing. Creepy...

New Rooms?

"I'll show you~ Follow me!" She skipped out of the Dinner Hall as we followed after her.

"I have only unlocked three rooms. More will be unlocked later. I believe few of you will like these new rooms" Mono-chan led us to the first room that was revealed to be......

A library. A massive one with several shelves of hard covered books.

"Quite a collection of fine literature here. I'm impressed!" Ol'Blue browses through the book titles. He seemed really happy.

How could a library impress him and when I can't?!

We left Ol'Blue there. Badgerclops and Cyber stayed with him.

The next room we went to was a large bakery that caused Muffet eyes to lit up like fireworks. Shelves of ingredents and baskets of freshly made dough. Mountains of fruit and spices. A fridge with milk, cheese, eggs, and other refrigerated ingredients. A number of cooking utensils. Vibrate orange and white tile floor. The wallpaper was a warm orange with white swirls. There was a black iron stove that smells of freshly baked bread. The perfect environment for the Ultimate Baker.

"Perfect! This is just perfect! I can make everyone their favorite desserts now!" She went straight to work.

I can practically smell that cobbler now! Oooh~ I really hope that it's Sugar Berry Cobbler. My taste buds can hardly wait! Maybe I'll get more than one.

However the last room caused shivers down my spine. A workshop filled with possible deadly weapons or the means to make one. A workshop meant for the Ultimate Creative Genius. Ugh....Great a place that makes Badgerclops look most suspicious now. Makes him seem more like a killer.

"Creepy...." Tanya gulped as she eyed the deadly tools. " Clops is going to be creative here"

Mono-chan left us alone to explore. Perfect time to hang out with someone. We decided no pairs today to explore the new room. I go to the kitchen where Muffet gave Kevin a few freshly made cookies.

"Thank you" He went straight back to Night. He cutely waved back at Muffet before leaving the room.

Muffet then waved to me, signaling for me to walk over to her. By the aroma in the air meant one thing: Cobbler!!!

"I made you some blueberry cobbler. Here you go!" She offered me a piece which I gladly accepted

As I enjoyed my delicious treat, I figure I should ask about yesterday. I like to know what she said that day.

"Muffet could you tell me what you said to Cyber yesterday?" I turned my full attention to her

"I was yelling at him that I needed to leave to get back to my baby. When he tried to hug me, I thought he was going to crush me so I attack me" She looked sorry. "I was so close to harming him, that's so unlike me" She sighed, her hands covering her face.

Baby? Muffet is a mother?

"When Mono-chan annouced the motive to us, she mention a child.... Do you think that they have your baby?" My tone started soft to ease her to talk more

"Yes... My husband is away. So it's just the little one and me. To know that monster has my baby....." She looks away, hands trembling.

I felt extremely bad for her. To have your own baby taken away by agents of a Killing Game must really be tough on her heart. Do I have anything that can help ease her suffering right now? I got just the thing!

"Here you go, Muffet. This may help" I gave hera soft blue scarf with bright pink heart patterns.

"Thank you Sheriff. It reminds me of the blanket I wrap my baby in. Very comforting" She tied it around her neck. Holding it lovingly.

I smiled. I feel thst my bond with Muffet grew a bit today. After spending time with Muffet, I felt oddly sleepy. Decided to take a nap before lunch. Guess it must have been from everything that's been happening recently.

I woke up to see Tanya in my room. Why is she in my room?! I locked the door, how did she get in?!

"Have a good nap Mittens?" She giggled before handing me a plate of grilled chicken seasoned with lemon and parsley.

"What's this?" I couldn't have missed lunch, could I? I wasn't asleep that long right?

"Badgerclops and I got worried when you didn't show up for lunch. We got scared and thought that you have gotten killed... Badgerclops and I found you here. Badgerclops is telling the others that you're fine. I stayed to keep an eye on you. So when did you start having nightmares Mittens?" She helped me up before getting straight to the point

"N-nightmare? Hah, those little things don't rattle me at all" I play it off while enjoying my meal. "What gives you that idea?" I chuckled

"The two of us found you crying in your sleep. Mittens we worked together, I know you well enough to know when you are scared. Tell me when they started" Her tone got serious.

Guess I can't hide it anymore. Not from her at least.

"Since yesterday... I think this is the first time I felt this scared, Tanya. We don't know how we got here. Let alone where the hostages are. Everyone is on edge because of the motive. What scares me the most is that one of us may become a killer...." I took a shaky breathe in. "I don't know if I can truly keep us safe from this" I covered my eyes and breathed out

"You don't have to carry the burden alone, Mittens. Me and Clops are here to help. You aren't the only one afraid either" She sat next toto me on the bed. "I'm scared too, but I ain't giving up hope. Not with my favorite funduddie here to keep me in check" She joked

"Tanya.... Thank you" Her words really did ease my pain. I can't believe I'm about to do this.

I hugged Tanya. Felt like we both needed it. Mostly me right now.

Tanya froze before returning the hug. I could even hear a tiny sniffle from her.

A wholesome moment between old friends. Comforting each other in a terrifying situation. Badgerclops came in to check on us which ended up in him joining our hug. Kind of crushing my ribs but it's worth it.

After that, I still had some free time. There's a certain someone I like to see. Though I doubt they be alone.

I went to the Library to find Night , she was reading a book to Kevin who had fallen asleep on her tail. Orangusnake was there too. He seemed pretty annoyed when I showed up but he turned his attention back to his book. I walk over to Night. Couldn't help but hear the story she read aloud. From what I could tell, she was reading the ending.

"Among the golden blossoms of the magical gardeb was where the sleeping child lie. The young knight rushed to her. He had journeyed long and hard to rescue her. He had travelled the cursed canyons where the vile serpent had stolen his sight. Overcame the witches tricks and spells. Freed himself from the Ice Dragon's prison. He even solved the Elder Sage riddlethat had stumped many before him. All to rescue his lost mother who nearly vanished in the garden where time flowed in reverse. The young knight picked up the slumbering child and began the long journey home. Mothers can always find their little ones. In truth, the child also searches for their parents. The end" Night closed the book and set it down carefully as not to distrub Kevin.

Wow... When she read that story, it was if her voice put me under a spell. As if her very voice allowed me to travel into the book and be the knight in the story myself.

That story reminded me of a game that I played with my mother as a kitten. Those were good memories. Maybe I could read it after Night was done with it.

"Mao Mao" Night voice snapped me back to reality. "Came here to read or give me another lecture about being a villian?" She now had Kevin sleeping in her arms.

"Not this time. You have really taken Kevin under your wing, he even sees you as an older sister figure. That's really nice of you" I still couldn't believe that this was the Ultimate Villianess before me.

"I'm not so cold hearted, Sheriff. Kevin doesn't deserve to be here. I'll keep him safe. Like someone I lost....." Her voice trailed off

Night lost someone? From what I can tell it was a sensitive topic for her. Should I ask about it?

"You just gonna stare? Kind of creepy there. If you're not gonna ask me anything then I'll leave" She got up to take Kevin out of the room. I managed to stop her in time.

"W-wait! Could you tell me more about who you lost?" I sat down at the blue oakwood table with two matching chairs. I gestured for her to sit down in one of the chairs.

Orangusnake must have been listening in on us since he offered to look after Kevin while the two of us chatted. Night hesitated but eventually accepted, giving him the sleeping child. He placed a hand on her shoulder. Giving her a "I'm here to help" kind of look. He then gave me a "Don't trouble her" glare before leaving the room with Kevin. What was that about? Are they friends or something?

"When I was just ten years old whe our house was set on fire. I managed to wake and by luck is when I somehow got me and my little brother to safety. Though it cost me my eyes...." She paused, needing a moment before continuing to share her past.

Lost her eyes? I closely examined her eyes. From what I could tell there were no signs of scars. Night certainly wasn't colored blind either. Could she have used some sort of healing potion of a spell?

"So what happened to your brother after that?" I wished I didn't hear the answer after that

"He died shortly afterwards.... In his final moments, he used his last remaining bit of magical strength to trade his blue eyes for my scarred ones...." She seemed to struggle to say that last bit.

"He....die...." I just froze

Her brother died in her arms. She was just trying to save him but it ended with her losing her only brother....

"Night, I'm so sorry" I tried to console her but she brushed me off

"I don't need your pity" She growls

It seems that I have upset her. Luckily I believe I had just the thing to brighten her spirits.

"Here Night, consider this a cheer up gift. Not a pity gift. Please take it" I handed her a bouquet of freshly cut moonflowers. Dark blue flowers with starry speckled petals. As well as shining moon colored floral antennas.

"If this is an attempt to flirt with me? Allow me to remind you that I'm taken. Happily for your information. Are your dating skills so low that'll make attempts with married people?" She teased and accepted the bouquet.

"I am not that low! I didn't even know you were married!! I just wanted to cheer you up!" I growled at her but my expression changed into a smiling one.

Those moonflowers really did lighten her mood. The two of us aren't anything but enemies. Well in this moment, me and Night's bond grew a bit closer today. Hope Snugglemagne doesn't get the wrong idea about the bouquet.

After hanging out with Night, I headed to the Dinner Hall for the evening meal. Barely a day left before the deadline for the motive. I still have no clue how to stop it. Once I got there, Sorrow and Kevin came up to me. They seemed to be playing a small game of tag. Everyone waited since Muffet volunteered to aid Mono-chan making dinner. Well actually she was making everyone their favorite desserts. Looks like I get to have cobbler again. Twice in one day, boy am I lucky!

Tonight's dinner was a egg noodle stir fry with optional toppings. Tanya was especially happy that one of the toppings was Hydra eggs. Just like earlier, Muffet made me a cobbler. This time it was a raspberry and cherry cobbler. It was the best tastiest cobbler my taste buds ever had.

After dinner,I went straight to my room. To my surprise is that Badgerclops was there. His eye looked puffy. Had he cried while waiting for me to get here? Also how did he get in my room? I clearly remember locking the door. So how? Could Badgerclops have a lock picker installed in his robo arm? That was probably it.

"You okay, Badgerclops?" I sat down next to him. I placed a paw on his flesh shoulder.

"Mao, we only have one day left....Only one day t-till Mono-chan hurts Adorabat... What can we do? I feel so helpless" He hiccuped to keep himself from breaking into another sob

"I know...." I didn't hide my tears this time. Sometimes it's best to show your tears.

Maybe we can ask Mono-chan for more time. It's are best bet to keep everyone safe. I noticed that Badgerclops had the same thought since he already volunteered. Probably still sees her as Bobo-chan, the adorable baby monster that he loved so much. He thinks he can get through to her. I don't even believe she could make such a deal. Those in desperate times like this, it's just worth the risk.

"So is Adorabat your dearest loved one too?" I asked, figuring a talk may help things.

"Her and someone else. A student of mine. I've been teaching an orphan badger cub some lessons on inventing. Sort of took her under my wing. The two of us really bonded together. I was actually going to adopt her before we got here. Now she's scared and could get killed if no one starts this game...
I'm scared for Sarah, Mao" He shivered a bit

"Why didn't you tell me before? I would have let her live with us at HQ" I can't believe he kept this secret from me.

"She's scared of being judged for her cybernetics. Scared that the sweetypies may treat her as an outcast" He sighed, rubbing the back of his neck

Cybernetics for a child? No wonder she was scared of being judged.

It was pretty late, So Badgerclops camped out in my room for the night. Staying together to help one another out. I gave him the bed while I slept on the floor. We both felt unusually sleepy anyways. Strange... Anyways I had no nightmares that night. Now if only I could wake up from this nightmare of a killing game....

I woke up with some pretty aching pain in my back. My head was throbbing too. I checked my Monophone for the time. It was nearly 7:15am. I never oversleep before. Why now? I rushed over to Badgerclops and shook him awake.

"Wha-what?" He lazily woke up "Dude, five more minutes" He was ready to go back to sleep.

"Badgerclops!! It's time to get up! It's nearly 7:30!" I quickly got ready while Badgerclops got ready too

"Bing Bong, Ding Dong! Morning players~ Please make your way to the Dinner Hall for some delicious breakfast~ Don't be late~" This time Mono-chan sung the annoucement

Why is she so cheery today?

I have a really bad feeling about this. One I hope is wrong, so wrong. Please let my instinct be wrong just this one time!

Badgerclops and I went to the Dinner Hall, I rushed a bit ahead of him. I need to check that I was wrong.

That no one had started the game!

I was out of breathe when I entered the Dinner Hall, sweat drenched my black fur. Everyone there stared at ne as if I was crazy.

Oh sorry, it's not like I'm panicking that one of us may have gotten killed over here!!

I got looks from everyone in the hall. Even from Badgerclops. I simply ignored it. A head count was seriously needed right now. I decided to go to everyone's table to assure that all of them were alright. The bad feeling only got worse.

At the first table is where Tanya, Sorrow, and Cyber were. The moment that I came to the table is when Cyber hid behind Tanya. Like younger siblings do with their elder siblings or parent. He warmed up to Tanya at least. They're safe.

"You alright Mittens?" She asked, giving me a concerned look

I went to the next table while completely ignoring Tanya. I had to do this first. Sorry Keys... You can yell at me later.

The next table had Rufus, Orangusnake, Ol'Blue, and Dr. Cuddlestien. They ate in silence since the only sounds I heard were chewing and sipping. The two sweetypies looked up and greeted me. Rufus only glanced up at me before going back to his food. Orangusnake seemed to be reading another book after finishing his breakfast. He seemed pretty annoyed with me, however he returned his focus on the book he held. They seemed safe too. Good.

Maybe for once,I'm wrong

"What do you want,jerk?" Orangusnake seemed real upset that I distrubed his reading.

Just like Tanya, I just ignored him. I rushed to the next table. Need to prove this bad feeling wrong.

"Rude!" He yelled at me before reading his book again

Well rude is worth making sure everyone is safe, pirate! We'll argue about it later!

Penny and Benny were at the next table, feeding each other the waffles decorated with honey syrup and fruit. Penny took a bite as Benny fed her a piece from his pllate. Benny blushed as he watched Penny smile. Even at breakfast, the two of them were "The Perfect Couple". Well at least these two were safe. Better head to the next table. Don't wanna distrub them.

Thankfully they didn't seem to notice me. The next table caused me much worry. It only increased my bad feeling ten fold.

At the next table, Snugglemage was trying to help Night as she comforted Kevin. The poor kid seemed really shaken up and wouldn't stop crying. Night try as she might, couldn't stop him or calm him down. Kevin was crying so badily that he couldn't even speak. The only sounds he could manage were sobs and hiccups. Both adults were really worried about him. Just what happened to scary the poor kid this bad? A nightmare or was it Mono-chan's bullying again?

"Please calm yourself, Kevin. We can not help you if thou does not tell us what troubles you so. You are frightening us. Please allow us to help you" Snugglemagne tried to comfort Kevun with little success.

Kevin just simply buried his face deeper into Night's shirt as he continued to sob. Night only held him tighter, she even tried to lift his sorrow with a song. It did help him a bit.

"What happened to Kevin?! How long has he been like this?" I looked to Snugglemagne and Night for answers

"We haven't the foggest ideas. He's been this way since 3 in the morning. Moonflower hasn't stopped comforting the small one since then. Oh, she refused to let us takeover so she may get a few winks of sleep herself" He seemed worried about both of them, mostly for Night.

"Night, do you know w-" Before I could even finish my sentence. Night shot me a glare and nearly smacked me with her tail.

Geez, Someone's grumpy this morning! It's hard to tell if it her overprotective towards Kevin or due to a lack of sleep. Either way she was in no mood to talk. Kevin either. At least they were safe. Tired and extremely frightened but safe.

So far my head count is at thirteen. Fourteen if I include myself. Just two more to assure that this bad feeling was nothing but paranoia.

Muffet was making everyone muffets and freshly baked bread for today's breakfast. She looked up at me and smiled sweetly at me. Hard at work making all her delicious pasteries. She appears to be safe. That makes fifteen of us. Yet no matter where I looked next. No matter how hard I looked around. I couldn't see our last player anywhere. The bad feeling only got stronger as did my worry.

Where was Farmer Bun?

"Has anyone seen Farmer Bun?" Everyone went pale when I asked. They seemed to realize that one of our own was missing

We all split up into groups to search. Sorrow went with Badgerclops and Tanya to search the garden. Rufus, Penny, and Benny would search the library. Ol'Blue, Dr.Cuddlestien, and Cyber went to check the dorms. Muffet, Kevin, and Snugglemagne searched the Bakery like room. Which left me, Night ,and Orangusnake to search the workshop.

We all left the Dinner Hall. None of us seemed to notice Mono-chan sipping her coffee as we left.

"Looks like the game has begun" She hummed to herself before finishing her coffee. "Might as well prepare "The Room" " She then disappeared

According to Tanya, there were no signs of Farmer Bun was in the garden. Badgerclops did find a few strands of his fur. Which meant that the sweetypie farmer had been there at some point, other than our time there together. So the garden was ruled out. Ol'Blue's group found nothing either. Dr. Cuddlestien did mention a torn note in Badgerclops room. Other than that, no signs that Farmer Bun was in his room. There weren't any signs that he slept in his room last night either.

Screams came from the hallways of the Library, Bakery, and Workshop. The screams came from both the Library and Bakery. We all rushed over there to see what had frightened the groups investigating those rooms. There I saw a scene that made my neck fur stand up.

There was a three way blood trail outside all three rooms. Meaning someone heavily injuried went into allall three rooms, but is now only in one of them. Possibly dying from the blood loss of their wound. The reall question was: Which room was Farmer Bun in now?

After a few moments, we mustered up the courage to truly investigate the rooms.

Rufus's group opened the door of the library, all were doing the best thry could to be brave. Yet nothing could brace them for the sight before them.

Books were scattered everywhere, some were damaged while others were soaked in crimson red blood. The table and chaira were toss and throw to the floor. Only the lower shelves appeared to be messed with. Could have been Farmer Bun using the books to fend off his attacker.Though one of the books appeared to be partially burned. Penny confirmed that it was some type of fairytale book. A book which Night and Kevin were reading yesterday. I saw Night put the book back. So how did it get burned? The trail revealed that Farmer Bun was in the library quite briefly, and got injured from something sharp. Maybe a corner of a shelf?

Yet no signs of Farmer Bun.

Rooms were checked yet no one can find him. With only two rooms left to check, and this feeling won't leave my feline senses. I can only hope the others find Farmer Bun.

It would take my group a while before we could get into the workshop since it was locked up tightly. Cyber and Badgerclops installed a lock yesterday so no one would hurt themselves from the tools. Only problem is that the two of forgot to make a key for the lock. So we had to wait till Night picked it, so we could enter.

Great work Geniuses! Make a master lock but forget to make the key!!

As Night was picking the lock, Snugglemagne's group investigate Bakery room. Like the library there was blood with signs of a struggle. There were three sets of footprints. One set belonging to Farmer Bun. The other two were unknown. Crumbs and destroyed pastries laid on the floor. Though what was the most unusual thing about the room, other then the blood trail. The oven appeared to jave been burning something earlier since the ashes inside were still warm. Who could have use it at night time?

Kevin hid behind Snugglemagne the entire time. Keeping his eyes shut tight the whole time. Too young to see this. Better for him not to look anyways.

"Are you done yet?" Kevin shakily asked, shivering the entire time.

"Almost Kevin...." Snugglemagne softly patted his head "We'll soon be out of here"

"I'm swared. I want Night" He hugged Snugglemagne leg tighter for comfort.

"We do as well" Snugglemagne needed comfort as well, this was all too much for his weak yet cowardly heart.

Speaking of Night. She seemed to struggle quite a bit with picking the lock. Heh, little Miss Perfect is having a problem with something common criminals could do in their sleep. I was just about to push her aside and handle the impossible lock myself. Though of course, she cracks it now.

"Got it" Night removed the lock and pushed opened the troublesome door in front of us.

The second that door opened, my bad feeling has sadly been confirmed.

No....

Oh no....

I failed...

Couldn't stop the game.... It had now officially started....

I feel sick! I wanted to puke at what I was seeing right now.

There in the workshop... blood on and among the many scattered tools. Paper soaked in blood were a mess on the floor. The chair toss aside from it's desk. Replaced with the body of Farmer Bun... He had blood oozing from a deep cut on his right rabbit's foot. He had a few cuts on his paws. He had a tustle before going down. I know personally that Farmer Bun could put up a fight. His clothes were covered in crumbs. His hat covered his eyes.

"Bing Bong Ding Dong! A body has been discovered~ About time really. I advise all players to please report to the "Workshop" ! I'll be there shortly~ So pay your respects to the fallen" Mono-chan image appeared on the video screen. She was sitting in a black ebony wooded throne with turquoise cushions. She lean back in the chair, sipping a cup of freshly brewed coffee. She acted like a noble. A twisted minded noble was taking enjoyment out of this.

Farmer Bun. The first victim of this horrific game. I felt him safe and someone gave into the motive. I failed, yet I won't fail to bring his killer to justice! I won't fail again!!!

Chapter Text

Trial:

Still hard to believe that Farmer Bun is gone. At first it doesn't seem real, then seeing the body snaps us back to the cold reality. Somebody played the game and now one of us is the killer. The only question is "who"?

I looked around to see the others had gathered. Everyone went pale from seeing the body. Dr. Cuddlestien wasted no time as she rushed to Farmer Bun body. With a heavy heart, she began to examine the body. Trying her hardest not to shed any tears while doing so.

Ol'Blue comforted Muffet who was a sobbing mess. Not that she was the only one. Rufus and Orangusnake looked away from the body, not being able to stomach the gruesome scene. Penny and Benny were sobbing messes that comforted each other the best they could. Cyber was a wreck as he rambled on about something. Badgerclops could barely calm him down. Tanya wouldn't let Sorrow see the body so they stayed outside the room. Night had her hands full trying to comfort both Snugglemagne and Kevin who were practically the most sobbing messes out of all of us.

I was just frozen in shock.

"Heya players! Looks like the Bun won't be here for next harvest. A shame really...Now we have no fresh veggies or fruits. Well since you y'all already investigate, time for the Monofile then Trial!" On cue is when our monophones sounded. They flashed before revealing contents of Farmer Bun death. I read ot silently in my head.

Monofile:
Victim:Farmer Bun
Time of Death:12am to 3pm
Body Location: Workshop
Cause of Death: Suffocation
Body Discovery Annoucement: 7:45am. Triggered by: ???, Mao Mao, Night.

Additional Notes:
• Was injuried by sharp object. Then the wound got worse due to further injury.
• Cuts on his paws prove he that he was in a fight before he died.
• Crumbs on his clothes. He was in the Bakery at some point last night.

"Huh? Why are me and Night on the Body Discovery Annoucement?" I turned to Mono-chan confused

"In order for a Body Discovery Annoucement to be triggered, three players who isn't the killer must witness the body" Mono-chan gave the explaination

So if me and Night saw the body then who is the third person?

"Welp, time to go to the "Room" " Mono-chan snapped her claws before the room went pitch black

Next thing we knew, we're in a room that's completely new to us. The walls were black and white tiles. Like a chessboard. The ceiling was a bland white color. The floor was much like the walls but covered in a silk turquiose rug. I was infront of a metal podium. My legs were trapped in heavy metal restraints to keep me from leaving. Behind us, Mono-chan sat in the same ebony throne like we saw her in during the Body Discovery Annoucement. Though something felt different about Mono-chan this time. But what is it exactly?

Where are we now? Why can't we move?

"Welcome to the Trial room. You're all here to figure out who killed Farmer Bun the Ultimate Farmer! Now let's go over the trial rules, shall we? 1. Once a murder takes place, a class trial will begin shortly afterwards. However we do allow players time to investigate first. Participation is mandatory for all surviving players. 2. If the guilty party is exposed during the class trial, they alone shall be punished. 3. If the guilty party is not exposed, then they shall win the game. All the remaining players will be punished instead. The evidence you all have gathered will lead you to the killer I assure you. I can only provide information and input only if it is crucial to the case. with that, the trial may begin" Mono-chan seemed upset about this. Completely different from earlier. A new person with actual emotions.

"So where do we begin?" Night asked

"Is the trial really necessary? It's obvious who did it" Rufus smirked, acting as if he solved the whole case in a matter of seconds.

"W-who?" Cyber asked nervously

"You, my amnesiac friend. Your fight with him gives you motive and I think you locked him in the workshop. I believe you could have easily broken the lock, threw our rabbit friend in there. Then locked him in there to die of blood loss" Rufus arguement was off somehow

"No....no, we did have a fight but I never hurted him!!" Cyber cried, shaking uncontrollably with no one to comfort him.

"Hold on! Cyber was with me last night" Tanya spoke. "At 11:55pm, he was freaking out real badily. So I let him stay with me for the night. We talked till 3:25am before falling asleep. The moment he came inside, I locked the door to keep him from leaving"

"Can anyone confirm this?" Orangusnake asked, suspicious about Tanya and Cyber alibi.

"Yeah....I saw them...I could hear them talking too.....Cyber and Tanya are innocent..." Sorrow spoke up.

"So it narrows things down. Our suspect list has been shorted by six" Ol'Blue points out, scribbling in his notebook.

"Isn't the number three?" Snugglemagne asked, rather confused

●Body Discovery Annoucement●

"You mean the Body Discovery , don't you?" I asked and Ol'Blue nodded in confirmation

"Mono-chan explained that it takes three innocent players to trigger a Body Discovery Annoucement. The file further support this since Mao Mao, Night, and mysterious third person witnessed the body. Since Sorrow can confirm Tanya and Cyber whereabouts, that goes to show that they are also innocent. Which has narrow our list of suspects to ten" Ol'Blue was right. At least a few of us have been proven innocent.

"Maybe we should figure out where Farmer Bun was first" I think figuring that out first may lead us closer to the killer.

If we can retrace Farmer last steps, we may be able to narrow down where he was originally attacked.

●Non-stop Debate●

"It's obviously the Library, he fought off his attacker before getting hurt" Snugglemagne suggested

"I think he went to the Bakery first, he probably wanted a snack before bed" Badgerclops offers his input

●Agreed●

"I agree with Badgerclops. The crumbs on his clothes proves it. I believe it's best he got attacked there. He obviously wasn't alone either" I stated

"Got any proof?" Penny asked. Scared without Benny holding her hand.

●Three Sets of Footprints●

"Snugglemagne's group found bloody footprints on the floor of the Bakery room. One set clearly belongs to Farmer Bun" I started my arguement though I got interrupted.

"Duh, who else has rabbit feet" Rufus eye rolls

Rude! Have some respect for the dead!!

"Which means one set belongs to the killer. The third set is still unknown though" It seemed to make sense to the others.

"So our topic is to figure out whose footprints are those. One probably is the one who saw the body first" Tanya was deep in thought.

●Non-stop Debate●

"How do we narrow things this time?" Cyber asked

"We could go over alibis" Penny offers, giving everyone a smile

"Please,anyone can lie for for an alibi. We need proof" Rufus argued

"Isn't there something to show us where everyone one was last night?" Tanya asked, rather she was hinting something.

●Buddy Tracker●

"The Buddy Tracker shows a pair in the same place. If someone was with Farmer Bun last night then it will show us. I honestly doubt Farmer Bun would go to the Bakery alone" I pulled out my Monophone to check my theory.

I tap the app to open it. The screen flashed to a bright white before it turned black. "Buddy Tracker" came up in glittery turquiose letters. I'm starting to see a pattern with these two colors. After a few seconds, the screen's main menu popped up. I scrolled through the memory for last night to see who was with Farmer Bun in the Bakery Room. A pixilated version of Farmer Bun was in the app version of the Bakery Room. It seems we were right, he was certainly not alone. The screen had to refresh before another pixilated version of another player could appear. There was also a strange glitch too. Weird...Could it be the third person in the Bakery last night? Anyways, the second pixilated person turned out to be Kevin....Kevin?!

Why was Kevin with Farmer Bun? Why was he out at night time?! He wasn't the killer, was he? No....Something isn't right!

"Kevin?! Why on earth did you leave your room at night?! Snugglemagne stared at the sweetypie porcupine in shock.

"I-I-I" Kevin was at a loss for words. Tears forming in his little eyes

"It's obvious why. He's the one who kill the farmer" Rufus glared at Kevin

"W-what?" Kevin face went pale as tears streamed down his tiny cheeks

"You are the only one last seen with him" Badgerclops points out.

"Hold it!"

Everyone turned to Night sudden outburst. She usually holds a calm face, but now it's one of anger.

"Kevin couldn't have done this! He is too young and can't even hold a weapon. Plus he could have just been lost and Farmer Bun helped him" I wanted to believe her words, yet is there any proof?

"Kevin, sweetie" Night turned to face him, keeping her tone soft. "Can you please tell us what you were doing last night?"

"I-I-I" Kevin stuttered, having trouble speaking

"Some time today kid!" Rufus growled. His impaitence turned into growing anger.

"Ep! I just wanted big sis to read me the story aagin... So I snuck out to get it. Then Farmer Bun found me... He swared me, so I threw some books at him...He hurt his leg but he forgave me. He asked me why I was at the Library so I told him. He told me he would take me to my room after we get a midnight snack......" He shook as he spoke. Though I could tell he was being honest so far.

Yet he still was hiding something. At least we found out who threw the books.

"Kevin..." Night felt sorry for the kid. "If you just asked, I would have kept the book with me"

"Yeah, cute story kiddo. Still means you killed him though" Rufus smirked as he playfully shrugged

"W-what?! But I rwally didn't kill him!" Kevin pleaded as more tears streamed down his face.

"I'm sorry Kevin...Thou we can't see anyone but you doing this crime. The "Buddy Tracker" shows undeniable proof you were the only one who could have done it..." Snugglemagne who had been protecting Kevin along with Night, now he believes the youngest among us commit such an act.

"Snugglemagne...How could you?! Kevin is not guilty!" Night gave him a slight glare. Though her shock was clearly visible.

"He maybe a child, Moonflower. Yet he is the one last to be with the Farmer. He even admits to being together before Farmer Bun passing" He argued with his own reasons

"Looks like we have a difference of opinion. This seems like a perfect opportunity for a "Scrum Debate"! Is Kevin truly the culprit or did he serve another role last night? Both sides will show their reasons. The side that presents the most logic in their arguement will allow the trial to resume based on the winning side reasoning" Mono-chan explained. She's actually was being helpful.

I couldn't help but notice her personality has taken a complete 180 degree turn. Is this truly the same Mono-chan we've been with us for the past few days. I had a theory but it could wait till after the trial. Time for this so called "Scrum Debate".

●Kevin is the Culprit●

Team Pure's Members: Rufus, Snugglemagne, Muffet, Penny, Benny, Sorrow,Dr.Cuddlestien.

VS

●Kevin is not the Culprit●

Team Heart's Members: Mao Mao, Night, Tanya, Cyber, Badgerclops, Kevin, Ol'Blue, Orangusnake.

"Kevin admits he attacked Farmer Bun!" Rufus started off the opening arguement

"He admitted to throwing the books at Farmer Bun but that doesn't mean he killed him!" I countered

"Kevin should not have left the room! He had no reason to. Well all but to murder Farmer Bun that is" Snugglemagne retaliated from where Rufus left off.

"He just wanted the storybook. Besides he far too young to comprehend how to murder anyways" Night spoke. "He is just a kid after all"

"That can all simply be an act to have lower Farmer Bun guard as he attacked him" Muffet pointed out.

"I don't know the kid well but he seems to more likely to run away then fight" Tanya quickily shot down Muffet's arguement

"Buddy Tracker last puts them in the kitchen" Penny shows her Monophone as proof.

"True. Though it only tracks pairs. It wouldn't show them if they separate" Cyber explains. He prove this by showing his movements yesterday on his Monophone. However instead of a pixilated version of himself, he was a glitch.

"H-he still could have gotten a weapon from the Bakery to attack Farmer Bun" Still timid as ever though Benny managed to get his point out.

"Dude, I've seen Kevin struggle to hold a spear let alone a weapon. Kid has no fingers. Not to mention that Farmer Bun can fight. Ask Mao, he knows personal!" Badgerclops couldn't help but giggle at the last bit.

"Nothing proves he didn't do it. He was a sobbing mess at the time of the murder. Suspicious is it not?" Sorrow countered

Ol'Blue was silent before opening his notebook to begin his arguement. He was taking alot of notes during the trial.

"In my line of work, Kevin expression can also mean that he could have witnessed a traumatic sight which his mind is trying to block out with high levels of emotions till the memory can be stored deep in his subconscious. So we may not be able to prove he didn't do it, however in turn you can't prove he did it either if we base this solely on his emotional state from last night" He went over all his notes which countered Sorrow agruement pretty well.

"Kevin is the only one seen with Farmer Bun according to "Buddy Tracker", therefore he is the one and only suspect" Dr.Cuddlestien fixed her glases. Her gaze fixated on Kevin

"N-n-no, someone else was there too, honest" Kevin stuttered a bit.

"How do we know you're not lying?" Rufus asked, though it sounded more like a demand

"Oh I saw Muffet going there before I got back from the restroom at 12am. Though I stayed up a bit, she didn't come to her room for like three hours" What Orangusnake said shocked everyone. Muffet especially.

●Full Counter! Team Heart Reason Wins! Kevin is not the Culprit●

"Orangusnake...Why didn't you mention this earlier?!" I yelled at him, baring my sharp feline fangs.

"Well since I didn't know it started in the kitchen, it didn't think it matter. Though when we brought it up more, I got more suspicious. Be glad I said anything, jerk!" He hissed back at me. Tanner's face gave me an angry look too.

"So now we have two suspects. Kevin and Muffet" Snugglemagne spoke. Not able to look Night or Kevin in their eyes.

"Can we narrow it down anymore?" Tanya asked, looking towards me "You know what I mean, right Mittens?"

I do know what she's talking about!

●First to see Farmer Bun Body●

"We have to see which one of them saw the body firzt. The Body Discovery Annoucement only goes off once three innocent people find the body. Though only me and Night saw the body. Additionally, the Monofile even mentions that someone saw the body beforehand. So one of them saw the body and is innocent" I explained

I know who it is too!

"I think Kevin saw the body first!" I got a few unconvinced looks.

"I really hope you got something to support your theory Sheriff" Rufus glares at me.

●Partially Burned Book●

"Remember how we found the story book? Partially burned. Meaning it caught on fire somehow. Kevin probably threw it at the killer before escaping. Mostly in fear of the killer targeting him" Now that I say that....An entirely new theory opens up to why Kevin left Farmer Bun alone with the killer.

Was Farmer Bun protecting Kevin?

"Something been troubling me for a while now. Let's say that Kevin was the Killer's true target. If Farmer Bun saw him in danger then he most likely tried to save Kevin right? I believed Kevin tried to help by throwing the book. Obiviously that stragety failed which is most likely how the book made contact with the fire in the oven and why Kevin really ran away. Fearing for his life, Kevin probably hid either in the Workshop or Library. Which makes sense on Farmer Bun protecting him is why Kevin is alive now" Thst theory did clear up some evidence and shed some light on this case too.

"Yeah without Night with him, Kevin is the easiest target here" Sorrow points out.

"Hold on!" Muffet's outburst really startled us. I've never hear her yell with this much intensity or anger.

"M-muffet" Ol'Blue even lookef startled

"How do we truly know if Kevin really witnessed the body? It could have been me" She angrily squeaked

"Then why don't we ask Mono-chan to confirm it? Cyber spoke up. "Well Mono-chan....did Kevin see the body or didn't he?"

All eyes were on Mono-chan.

"Well I will answer that. I am a lady Mono-chan of my word! The first player to see the body of Farmer Bun is in fact, Kevin the Ultimate Sweetheart!" She spoke with a genuine smile, not her usual twisted one.

●Monofile Update: Kevin was the first to trigger the Body Discovery Annoucement●

Muffet paled as those of us who supported Kevin sighed in relief.

"So that just leaves Muffet as the culprit " Badgerclops seemed right on the money on this one

"Question. Other then those who are innocent or have alibis for the crime, why didn't the rest of us hear anything? We should have at least heard a scream right?" Dr.Cuddlestien asked

Good question. I know why too.

●Drugged our Desserts●

"I think Muffet made our desserts with a special ingredient to make us extremely drowsy. That way we all be too knocked out to interfere. I'm going to assume Orangusnake, Kevin, Farmer Bun, Tanya, Cyber, and Sorrow didn't eat their desserts. Being the Ultimate Baker, Muffet would know how to do that" All of us looked at Muffet in shock

"M-muffet.....you really did do this....didn't you...." Ol'Blue looked at her in disbelief, unable to finish his sentence properly.

"She probably used the oven to get rid of what she used to deepen his leg injury too. There's too much ash to just be from the book alone. Not to mention she does a flamethrower in her cooking, right?" Tanya weighted in. That would explain why we never found the weapon that hurt him.

"Okay if I am the killer then how did I do it?" Even when backed into a corner, Muffet refused to admit defeat.

She won't listen at all. I'll have to make her see things!

●Rebuttal Showdown●

"Even if I did kill him, how would I do it?"Muffet demands

"He didn't die from blood loss, so how could I kill him? He suffocated and yet, nothing was found to prove it!" She added, eyes filled with anger.

"How could I possible do it?! How?!" Her eyes went crazy

"How could I have suffocated him?!"

●Killed By A Chestnut Related Dessert●

"We found crumbs all over his body. As if he was force fed something. Farmer Bun confessed to me that he has a major allergy to chestnuts. If he ever ate one then his throst would close up. Suffocating him to death as a result. Only three people other then himself knew this. Myself, though thanks to the Body Discovery Annoucement, I'm innocent. Dr.Cuddlestien knew due to being the Valley's only doctor. Finally there is you Muffet. The last one to be in the Bakery room with full knowledge of his allergy. You could have easily overpowered him thanks to further deepening his injured leg. Then all you have to do is shove the pastry in his mouth. Leaving the allergy to do the rest" Everything clicks together now.

Muffet said nothing else till tears formed in her eyes. "I admit it....I killed Farmer Bun" Finally the truth has been revealed.

●Rebuttal Over●

"So Muffet really did this...." Ol'Blue took this the hardest out of all of us.

"Alright everyone, I'm going to go over the case one more time. Muffet, tell me if I got anything wrong okay?" Time to end this trial once and for all.

●Closing Arguement●

Act 1: It all started after Mono-chan told us that if there was no murder in three days then she would kill all our dearest loved ones. In addition, Kevin being revealed as the final player along with access to the Bakery Room allows the culprit the means to set up their plans.

Act 2: During yesterday's dinner, the culprit prepared special desserts which caused us to be completely knocked out so no one could interfere. All except Farmer Bun and the intended target. Considering how close Kevin's and the culprit rooms are, they most likely heard him leaving and went to the Bakery Room for the next phase of their plan. Unknowingly to them, Orangusnake spotted them going to the scene of the crime.

Act 3: After the whole Library incident, both Kevin and Farmer Bun went to the Bakery Room for a snack before returning to their rooms. Unaware that they had entered the culprit's trap. As the culprit went to strike, Farmer Bun went to protect Kevin which further injuried his already injured leg. Kevin attempted to help by throwing the book though it failed. Kevin quickly fled afterwards. Leaving Farmer Bun with the culprit. They fought for a bit too.

Act 4: Since he was losing too much blood, Farmer Bun would have no choice but to flee as well. All the blood trails originated from the Bakery. Farmer Bun probably was also looking for Kevin to keep him safe. Trashing the Library to find both was a mixture of both the culprit and Farmer Bun doing. Without knowing where Kevin went, the culprit had no choice but to switch targets to Farmer Bun. Knowing the perfect way to murder him due to the knowledge they knew about him.

Act 5: Farmer Bun was probably in the Workshop, how he got inside is still unknown. The culprit then made their move and attacked, with the amount of blood loss...Farmer Bun didn't stand much of a chance. The culprit forced fed a pastry that containing something that our victim was deadly allergic to. With that Farmer Bun suffiocated and sealed his fate. The killer then left the scene to clean and set up Kevin for the murder. However they never counted for Kevin triggering the Body Discovery Annoucement, the only thing to truly foil their plan.

"You used pasteries for a bitter tasting murder, Muffet the Ultimate Baker. You murdered Farmer Bun the Ultimate Farmer!!"Muffet sobbed. Looking pale as I went over everything.

"Well, it's time to cast your votes for the blackened. On your podiums is a crystal heart. On each reflective surface is an image of each player. To vote, you just have to do is tap that player's image. Once everyone has voted then I'll tell you the results! Now will you vote correctly and the blackened losses, or are you going to vote poorly wrong and the blackened wins" Mono-chan explained without making any eye contact what so ever.

Everyone was silent as we voted. I had to force myself to tap Muffet's image. Forcing myself to do this. For the sake of Farmer Bun, we had to assure that Muffet pays for her deeds. Though I felt so uneasy as a new bad feeling emerged.

"Well the votes are in... You all voted corrected. The one who murdered Farmer Bun the Ultimate Farmer was indeed Muffet the Ultimate Baker. Congrats for getting it right" Mono-chan clapped to praise us.

"Muffet why? Why murder Farmer Bun? Why did you try to murder Kevin?!" Ol'Blue pleaded with her for answers. Begging almost even.

"It's because of the motive right? It was close to the deadline and you were despearate. Can't say we all weren't but geez..." Badgerclops sweats nervously as he spoke. Still shaken up by all this.

"Mono-chan took my dearest loved one. My baby son....I couldn't take any chance. If I didn't do something then my son would have been killed! I only had him left! I COULDN'T LOSE HIM! I'M HIS MOTHER, IT'S MY DUTY TO PROTECT HIM!!" Muffet broke down in tears, screaming till all there was left was sobs.

Muffet only wanted to be reunited with her baby. The motive forced her to kill in hopes of it.

"Well time for punishment. Sadly the punishment if a blackened is discovered, the punishment is execution" We all paled as Mono-chan spoke

The reason I got such a terrible feeling. Murder is an inexcusable crime but execution....That's overkill!

"M-murder...No...no...Please....I just want to see my son again. I would have never if I knew...." She sobs more, regretting her actions

"This isn't fair! You forced her into this Monoster! If it wasn't for the motive then no one would have gotten killed!" I growled

"Mao Mao, Mono-chan never really gave us any proof that the motive was actually real" Night looked directly at Mono-chan

"Yeah, I was bluffing" Mono-chan apologized

Muffet face lost all it's color. " Bluffing....so my baby...safe..."

"Welp, that's all the time you had. I've prepared a VERY special punishment for you, Miss Ultimate Baker~" That twisted look returned to Mono-chan face as her scarred eye glew.

"W-WAIT PLEASE! I JUST WANTED TO SAVE MY BABY!" She screamed desperately pleading

"Let's give it everything we got!" Mono-chan grin grew wider

"NO! SOMEONE PLEASE HELP!" Muffet looked to us for help but we all looked away

"IT'S PUNISHMENT TIME!!!~" Mono-chan cheered

"NOOOOOOOOOOO!!!" Muffet cried

●Muffet has been found Guilty. Time for her execution!●

Muffet looked at all before her podium fell down a passage taking her with it. Taking her to her end.

We all watched helplessly as Muffet disappeared. A television screen appeared and began to show us the horrible broadcast. The one of Muffet's gruesome execution.

●The Sweet Taste Of Death~ Muffet's Execution●

The podium takes Muffet all the way down to an enormous mixing bowl before dropping her inside. Muffet struggles to crawl out but to no avail. Soon the mixing bowl is filled with flour, vanilla, milk, sugar, eggs which covered her body. The mixer starts up till the batter is perfect. If not for the mini air bubbles then Muffet would've drowned. The bowl is then poured into a baking pan with a unique oil that sticks Muffet fur to the pan. Unable to move despite her best efforts. The pan is then placed in a giant sized oven which is turned on. The intensity of the heat begans to melt Muffet's body and slowly liquefied her brain. The last image she can see is the face of her baby son. Just as her brain is no becoming a bowl of soup. When it seemed like she is just about to die, the oven opens and the cake is pulled out. Mono-chan appears with a bunch of hungry monsters. Blood hungry that is. They all lunge for the cake and eat it whole heartedly. After a few moments of eating...the cake is gone. The monosters face covered in crumbs while their fangs dripped in crimson red blood. Mono-chan evil giggles echoed as the execution ended. The screen then went black after such a gruesome scene.

I've seen many of things as a hero and a sheriff. Though in all my years, never had I seen anything as sick as that. Many of us looked pale with fright. A few of us glared at Mono-chan with anger and disgust. Kevin sobbed. Sorrow sniffled a bit yet remained silent.

"WHAT. THE. HECK?!" Orangusnake was the first to break the silence.

Glad someone did.

"I did explain I would punish the blackened if they were found, correct? Well I just never mentioned the punishment would be execution is all~ Though it's fair. Muffet killed Farmer Bun, so it's only right that she dies too. Ugh!! We are giving the fallen justice, aren't we?" Mono-chan growl as she glared at us.

"We?" Penny asks

"Mono-chan has "Multiple Personality Disorder", don't you?" I turn my attention to Mono-chan

On cue, the foot restraints on the podiums released us. Finally we can move again.

"Look like my little secret is out. As kitten boi says, I have two people sharing my body. Though my other half only comes out if I need her to. It's real easy for me to regain control over Bobo-chan...Oops~" Badgerclops eye widens from that.

"So Bobo-chan has you controlling her..." He looked really heartbroken now.

That explains her behavior during the trial. Which means that someone mentally programmed Mono-chan to control her, leaving Bobo-chan trapped....Only to be freed to be a judge of these trials. A mere slave in this game like us. Yet she can't fight back....

"So you were bluffing about the motive? So all our loved ones are safe, right?" Tanya asked

"Only for this trial. The others will be 100% true" Mono-chan crossed her heart as proof.

"Like anyone is going to play this again" Rufus growled "After all this, I doubt anyone will ever play your twisted game ever again!"

"Oh we'll see about that~" With that Mono-chan snapped her claws

Just as before the room went all black. However this time it filled with some type of smoke. I felt lightheaded snd my vision grew blurry.

Knock out gas.....

The last thing I remember is somone humming....Then I black out.

Remaining Players: 14

Chapter Text

Another Game~

I woke up in my dorm room, my mind still hazy though. Mono-chan must have somehow brought me here. The last thing I can remember is the trial.....We lost Farmer Bun and Muffet. Farmer Bun who died while protecting Kevin. Muffet who killed to see her baby again but lied to by a false motive...

I failed to save them both. Grr... How could I let this happen?! I punched the wall a couple of times in rage. GRRR!! Why? Why are we even here?! Why....why couldn't I being a hero....Who planned this twisted game? Hot tears streamed down my face.

Failure!

After throwing a couple more punches, I finally managed to calm down. I check myself to finally notice that I'm wearing a....suit? It was the very same one I wore during the Pet Competition against Snugglemagne to win Bao Bao back. Why am I all fancied up?

I gasped as I realized something important. My hero clothes were taken and I don't know where they are! I'm practically thrashing my entire room to find them. Much to my dismay, no luck. They aren't here.

I swear if Mono-chan does anything to them, I'll-

"Good Morning, players. I deeply apologize for yesterday.... so to liven everyone's mood, I'm hosting a party. So please come to the newly decorated Meeting Room for the celebration. Don't worry all of you are fully prepared" Judging from the gentle tone, Bobo-chan was in control for now.

I went to the Meeting Room. As I walked there, thoughts and questions flooded my mind. One in particular.

Why is Mono-chan letting Bobo-chan take control now? She said it herself, Bobo-chan only comes out in trials. So why would she allow Bobo-chan to host a party? Right after two deaths no less. I should check the others too. Probably as freaked out as I still am.

Before I open the door of the Meeting Room, I straighten my tie. This is a party after all. Gotta look my heroic best after all!!

I opened the door to reveal quite a scene. The rows of chairs were replaced with tables covered in golden silk tableclothes. The two tables had luxary class food that could only ever be served at weddings, or esteemed gatherings. Roasted meat delicates along with scrumptious other foods. Assprtments of ciders and other exclusive drinks as well. Flashing moonlights danced around the room as melodies of song filled the room. On stage, Bobo-chan greeted the guest while keeping the music going on the harpicord. She's pretty good. Looks like Snugglemagne has competition.

"Welcome Ultimate Heroic Sheriff, plesse enjoy and be merry with your fellow players. Eat, drink, as well as try to have fun tonight. I'm sorry about yesterday... Though for just today, please forget. Even if it is only for today" She couldn't look me in the eye. Still feels guilty that Mono-chan controls her like a marionette and forces this game to continue.

Bobo-chan wore a small black sun dress with small turquiose swirl patterns on the shoulder stripes. She wore black dress shoes. On her robo-looking arm, she wore a turquiose beaded bracelet. On her head fin was a black bow that had a turquiose crystal heart in it's center. Pretty cute on her.

"Alright, I will" I nodded. "Bobo-chan, try to have fun too. By the way, where are my heroe clothes?" I tried to sound as calm as possible.

"Oh, you'll get them back after the party. I promise. Just have fun for now. Tomorrow the game will resume" She went back to playing the soft melody of the harpicord.

I sighed in relief. I decided to go see how everyone else is doing. I saw Ol'Blue chatting with Night and Kevin by the drinks and snacks. Best to start with them. Ol'Blue took Muffet's death the hardest due to them being long time friends. Best to talk to them first. Kevin too. I'm surprised that Snugglemagne isn't near Night. I'll ask about it once we talk.

I could use something to drink anyways.

"You should forgive him. His judgement was clouded and he made what he believed the most logical conclusion at the time. I'm sure he deeply regrets his actions and wishes to make amends with both of you. Considering our current situation, I advise that less tension will lead to a better survival rate. Night. Holding a grudge is not healthy for your marriage either"

"I know. I just need time. Not ready yet"

"That's understandable. However I suggest not waiting too long"

"I'll talk to him after the party"

"Good"

I heard a bit of their conversation before joining them.

"Hey Ol'Blue, Kevin, Night. How are you three doing? Having fun I assumed" I got myself a glass of razzle fizz juice.

"Oh greetings, Sherrif" Ol'Blue look much better than yesterday. Night must have talked to him.

"It's good to see you here, Mao . Just this once... let's get along. There's been enough tension. We need not to add to it" Night placed a paw to her hip with the other on Ol'Blue shoulder.

She seems to sympathies with him as if she has gone through something similar.

"Hwllo mister Sheriff!" Kevin appears quite cheerful. Night is practically becoming the shoulder everyone seems to be leaning on. She must have helped them both.

They all appeared to be dressed up as well. Bobo-chan really pulled out all the stops on this. Possibly a way of trying to apologize to us.

Ol'Blue wore a dark blue double breasted silk suit jacket which had six golden buttons, three of them close the suit. He also wore a pair of golden cufflets on the shelves. He wore matching suit pants. The shirt he wore in the suit was white like most wear with suits. He wore a dark blue bowtie to complete the ensemble.

"Looking sharp there, Ol'Blue" He smiled as I complimented him.

"Why thank you. I woke up in this. I must say Bobo-chan is throw quite the party. I can't say I'm not scared or freaked out how accurate she got my measurements" A nervous look appeared on his face.

I think everyone is..... It is really making me uneasy.

I turn my attention to Kevin. Just yesterday, he was a sobbing mess and now it was like yesterday's events didn't faze him. He was getting a fruit tart or at least he tried to. Night ended up helping him.

"Thank you Night" He smiled sweetly before eating the tart.

"Not a problem, Kevin. Let me know if you want more ok?" She softly patted his head. Smiling a warm smile.

He nodded happily.

I couldn't help but smile at the two of them. They truly acted as if they were blood siblings. Though I see Night as his temporary motherly figure too.

Night looked up to see me. I gestured that I wanted to talk. She nodded in secret before turning to Kevin.

Kevin wore a small two button white suit with the pants to match. His puffy tail stuck out the back. He even wore a silk top hat with a golden yellow rose on it. Right now, his little face was cover in crumbs.

"Kevin, can you please go with Ol'Blue for a bit? Mao Mao and I need to chat for a bit. I won't be gone long, I promise" Night kissed the little sweetypie head.

Kevin nodded before him and Ol'Blue went off to chat to the others. Ol'Blue seemed to be worried about Night and Snugglemagne. I should ask her about it now that we are alone.

"Hey Night, how are you holding up?" I started off with that

"I would be lying if I say I wasn't shaken up. I've seen things and caused things. Yet Mono-chan made a whole new level of sick. I'm glad I was able to calm Kevin and Ol'Blue" She passed me a cider and got one for herself.

"Thank you" I took a long sip of my cider. It tasted really good, fruity paradise in my mouth. "How are things with Snugglemagne? I'm surprised he isn't with you"

She tightened her grip on her glass. Her face looked calm, yet it's clear that something happened between them.

I kept silent after that. Now was not the time. I then noticed the dress she wore. Truly stunning to the eye.

Night wore a soft blue wrap dress with small star designs. The bow itself resembled a starry nebula. She wore two diamond star earrings. Though on her head was a floral crown of freshly cut moonflowers. The true eye catcher was the Ruby Pure Heart in the center of the dress.

Just as her name, the dress resembles the night sky and all the mystery that lies within.

"You look good in the dress" I tried to changed the subject.

"Thanks...." She didn't seem any better.

"Moonflower..." A voice approached us. Night turned away. She didn't seem happy to see him at the moment.

Before the two of us was Snugglemagne. He really didn't seem to notice me, he seemed solely focused on Night. Makes me feel like a third wheel now.

"What is it, Ultimate King?" She wasn't even addressing him by name. He must have really upset her.

"You can call me by my name, sweetie. Look that fight we had was not our best moment and we deeply regret it. We have apologize several times now. What more will it take for you to forgive us?" In his eyes, we both could tell he meant every word.

"I need time" She turned, leaving the two of us alone.

Snugglemagne looked crestfallen after that.

Snugglemagne wore a single breasted, one button peak lapel black suit jacket with a moonflower attached to it. He wore a white shirt underneath like most wears with suits. Matching suit pants along with white powder snow gloves. His crown was polished that it appeared to be a brand new one. His mane was all glittery and looked like it did during the Pet Show Competition.

Did Bobo-chan make his look like this or does she have access to his spare ones? Does she know the King's secret?

Snugglemagne finally noticed me after snapping back to reality. "Oh greetings, Sheriff Mao Mao"

"Hello my liege... Are you two okay?" This could cause problems if we don't resolve it soon. Mono-chan could use tjis against them for another motive.

He just ignored me and went off to another corner of the Meeting Room. Poor guy....

"Heya Dude!"

"Mittens, glad to see you made it!"

"Hi Mao Mao..."

Tanya, Badgerclops, and Cyber came over to greet me. Badgerclops probably came over to eat all the food. Heh, classic Badgerclops. Cyber seemed quieter than usual. He hid behind Badgerclops while avoiding eye contact from everyone.

Cyber wore a bright red suit jacket with matching pants. He wore a black shirt underneath with a red bowtie. His tail looked perfectly polished to a sun gleam like shine. His shades remained the same.

Badgerclops wore a black tuxedo suit with a black bowtie. His fur was combed with the scent of colonge. His eyepatch looked more fancier then previous one.

I'm starting to wonder if Mono-chan or Bobo-chan bought or tailor them for us.

Tanya's dress was quite beautiful. She wore an emerald green halter dress which sparkled in the room's light. She smelted of lavender and jasmine, a perfume possible. On her right ear was a pink carnation.

"Like what you see Mittens?" She teased me, winking at me.

"You look nice, Keys" I rolled my eyes playfully and chuckled.

"Aww~ You think I look nice? Maybe I'll dance with you later Mittens" She eats one of the treats before going to dance with Badgerclops.

I'm not jealous! I'm a far better dancer than Badgerclops! I'll prove it after I check in with everyone. Just you wait, Tanya!

It was no surprise to see Penny and Benny together on the dance floor. They held one another's hand as if their lives depended on it. Just like before they wore matching formal attire as well. The "Perfect Couple", matching one another in someway. Judge by the brightness of their smiles, it seems like they are having fun.

Penny wore a soft yellow bubble dress with golden yellow flowers on her head. The dress's seams composed of pink thread that made small heart designs. On her neck was a golden silk ribbon with a crystal chocker heart.

Benny wore a light pink single breasted, one button peak lapel suit. He wore a pink rose on the suit. He wore a light green tie and a pink bowler hate with green ribbon.

"You truly looked like an angel, Penny. Im r-really glad that we're a couple" Benny twirled Penny around before embracing her in a slow waltz.

"Oh Benny~" Penny leanher head on Benny's shoulder as the two continued to slow dance.

I thought it best to leave them be. The music truly captured the romance of that moment.

My neon green eyes found Orangusnake talking to Night, he seemed to be comforting her about something. He even hugged her. How close of friends are they? Just how badily did Snugglemagne hurt Night? More importantly, what exactly was the fight about?

"I'm fine, Orangusnake. I'm actually ashame of how I'm acting right now. He was upset and needed someone to take it out on. It just so happened to be me at the time. I'm sorry that you have to see me this emotinally vulnerable, how weak I must seem now" She sadly chuckled.

"Noches... I'm the most emotional pirate villian you'll ever meet. You help all villians around the world, putting their needs before your own. You have every reason to shed a few tears or be upset. Emotions don't mean that you're weak. They only prove how strongly you care for others. Anyways, that husband of yours had no right to bring "Him" up in the first place. He knows how painful that is for you! Grr!! I'm going to give him a piece of my mind! " Night put a hand on his shoulder to keep him from storming off to yell at Snugglemagne.

"Orangusnake... Thank you, my friend. Though let's leave him alone tonight okay" She smiled.

Orangusnake huffed in defeat but smiled back. "Anytime Noches"

Unlike everyone here, all Orangusnake wore was a white bowtie. A suit would most likely suffiocated him since Tanner's face breathes for the both of them.

Wish I could have wore my Wedding style heroes clothes....

Those two chatted for a while later. Snugglemagne joined in but Orangusnake kept him a good distance from Night.

Was he a bodyguard to her now? Is he protecting her as a friend or as a boss like figure, since she's a legendary villianess?

I should probably check on Sorrow too. They're a kid too after all. Besides since we are all in formal wear, may I can figure out their gender based on their attire.

Sorrow wore a cloak like dress suit. A combination of a man's suit and a girl's dress. Still concealing the gender. Would it be rude if I just asked? Back to the outfir, the dress suit as black with four silver buttons on the top and a flowing skirt on the bottom. A white bow was around their neck. Their usual porcelain mask was more happy sad, if that's a thing. It was coated in silver glitter. The black painted crescent moon eyes were a mixture of happiness and sadness. Small heart tears below them. Yet a smile replaced the frown that was usually patted there.

They were chatting with Ol'Blue and Kevin. I'll ask them about it later.

Sorrow truly is a mystery that I like to unravel here. I can't put my finger on it but.... I feel as if I know them behind that theater mask. However I can't remember exactly who.

"Just who are you, Sorrow the Ultimate Sadness?" I whispered to myself.

The harpicord music was suddenly accompanied by a ukulele. My attention returned to the stage, where I saw Snugglemagne was now playing the harpicord. Bobo-chan played the ukulele beside him. Two completely different instruments that play in harmony for just one day.

"You play well, Snugglemagne" Bobo-chan praised while strumming the ukulele strings.

"You play quite well yourself, Miss Bobo-chan. Perhaps we can play a duet later" He smiled, his fingers dancing on the piano keys.

"I would truly like that" She smiled, before the two resumed to play.

Looks as if those two are becoming friends through their love of music. Good for both of them.

Only two left to check on, Rufus tbe Ultimate Con Man, and Dr. Cuddlestien the Ultimate Doctor. One who suffered before this twisted game began. The other was gravely hurt from losing a paitent before her eyes, worse that it was a friend of hers. Neither really spoke after coming here.

All they seem to be doing is redressing Rufus bandages every few hours. They seem pretty sad, yet the two kept to themselves.

I decided to walk over to them. I should check how they are doing anyways. Rufus seemed to have noticed since he looked pretty annoyed at me.

However Dr.Cuddlestien didn't seem to care that I was coming over. Though she seemed upset about something. Probably the losses of Farmer Bun and Muffet. She knew them both well. Must be pretty painful for her. Poor Doctor...

"Hey you two. How are the two of you doing after....well you know..." No matter how hard I tried. I couldn't finish that sentence. I was afraid to. Hard to admit it but it's true.

Dr.Cuddlestien wore a pure white shirt dress which greatly resembled a nurse outfit. Even had a red cross on the left top corner. It had light brown buttons on it's top. She wore a white silk headband witn teal colored lilies decorating it. She wore the same type of glasses but with white frames. Her tail was beushed so perfectly that it appeared as perfect as if it was a professional taken photo. I smelt a rosy scent on her too, perfume maybe.

"You look lovely, D.C." I ease her into starting a conversation.

"Thank you Sheriff. To answer your earlier question....No. I failed to save not only my paitent but a dear friend. I have a personal code to do everything in my power to help anyone in my care. If I had found him earlier then I could have saved him. Then our two friends would still be with us today. I can not help but blame myself" I know how she feels.

She isn't the one to blame anyways....I blame myself from preventing this from happening...

"Don't be so hard on yourself, my dear doctor" Rufus decided to chime in on our conversation. "After all, if anyone here is to be blamed. It would be Mono-brat. They are the ones who operate this game. They manipulated two people who are now dead. So please don't burden your heart with something you aren't responsible for. Tears don't suit you dear" Rifus offered Cuddlestien a hankerif to dry her newly formed tears.

Huh, he can be geniunely nice for once. What do you know, heh.

"Thank you" She accepts it.

Rufus wore a white single breasted, one button notch lapel suit jacket with gleaming golden buttons along with a red rose on the top right corner. He wore a teal tie and a white under shirt as well. He even wore matching suit pants.

"How are you doing Rufus?" I finally asked him. "You should really eat something, it's really good. If you don't then Badgerclops will eat it all. Trust me, I know from experience"

"Forgive me if I am wary of the food. That trial proves that nothing can be trusted here" Guess it's natural not to trust anyone cooking after that.

No one wants to be drugged again. Not me especially. I should've suspected this earlier when I felt drowsy from the first cobbler. How could I have been so blind?!

"Mao"

Such an idiot. My family would be ashamed of me. I'm ashamed of myself. I fail...

"Mao"

Failure of a hero....

"MAO MAO!"

I snapped out of my thoughts to see Badgerclops staring at me, he looked really worried about me. I could see everyone else shared the same look.

Badgerclops pulled me into a hug. He would do this when he wanted to tell me something in private. He embraced me tighter as he leaned in to whisper in my ear.

"Dude, calm down. I know you're blaming yourself right now, but it wasn't your fault. Please just relax. I'm here for you dude. Let your mind forget those thoughts and have fun today" Badgerclops released me from the hug and smiledsmiled at me.

He's right. I couldn't save Farmer or Muffet. That doesn't mean that I can't protect my remaining friends. There will be no more killing games!

I walk over to Tanya and keep my word on that dance I promised her. My dancing today was truly a legendary sight to behold. I haven't had this much fun in such a long time.

Night even got up on the stage and sang a lovely song for us. Her singing isn't quite as perfect like mine, but she did have quite the angelic voice. Snugglemagne played the harpicord beside her. The two seemed to have made up with each other, at least for the party.

Orangusnake and Badgerclops seemed to be having their own personal eating contest. I remember that the Sky Pirates rarely eat or doing any sort of grocery , so this must be a real blessing for him. Badgerclops is just the type for eating all the party food or snacks. Even admitting to it on multiple occasions. Just hoped that everyone got something to eat beforehand. By what I can tell, Badgerclops and Orangusnake were tied so far. Though Orangusnake seemed to be getting full. On the other hand, Badgerclops eat more as if his stomach was a bottomless pit.

Tanya and Ol'Blue were chatting about their jobs. The two exchange tips on how to benefit from certain tasks with unique skills.

Kevin and Sorrow played together on the dance floor. A game of chase. Sorrow was currently it and they we're going after Kevin. It's pretty wholesome seeing the two playing together. Gives the rest of us hope.

Cyber, Rufus, and Dr. Cuddlestien seem to be discussing something among themselves. It appeared to be a serious too. Could it be about Rufus hand? I didn't know Cyber had any medical training. So why are they asking him for help?

Benny and Penny were still slow dancing. Unaware of what was happening around them. They were only focused on one another. Still as lovey dovey as ever. Holding the title of "Perfect Couple" for all to see.

As for Bobo-chan, she seemed very pleased that all of us were having fun.

After the party, we all when to our dorms to turn in for the night.

Meanwhile, it seems that Bobo-chan was speaking to the Mastermind like she does every night . Well it was usually Mono-chan who spoke to the Mastermind, though that wasn't the case tonight.

"Aww it's really sweet. Trying to build up their hope back up, only for me to knock it back down. Seriously wht do you so desperately cling to hope when we all know that despair wins in the end. So tell me, dearest little Bobo-chan. Is this fight truly worth it? You'll only lose in the end" The Mastermind asked in a bittersweet tone.

"I may be a puppet in your twisted game, you put "Her" in my mind to hurt others! Forcing me to host trials that only cause more death and suffering! Limiting my freedom to make my will break! Though the others continue to fight against you despite how much you have taken from them. So as long as they hold hope in their hearts, then I'll do everything in my power to help them! Hope and Despair forever have clashed one another. Two eternal rivals who are at a stand still to win a battle that has gone through losses and victories from both sides. Hope shall win" Bobo-chan stood up to the figure on the screen.

"Ugh... That is the exactly the reason I programmed Mono-chan to take over. At least she knows that "Despair" Will be the true winner. You know what? You got your little party ot of the way. I think my darling hostess should return, don't you think?" The Mastermind snickered before snapping their fingers. "Time to go nighty night Bobo-chan"

Bobo-chan gasps sharply before going limp.

"Mono-chan, welcome back. Bobo-chan is really annoying! I'm so sorry you put up with that" Th Mastermind sighed, being quite apologetic towards the monster baby before the screen.

Mono-chan was back in control. The first expression on her face was anger. "AUGG!! How could she dress me up like a flower girl?!! She made me play with that cowardly excuse for a king! And of all the stupid excuse of an instrument, she plays the ukulele and harpicord!! The ukulele is already the top on my hate list, but the harpicord...DON'T EVEN GET ME STARTED-!"

"Mono-chan. Calm down" On cue, Mono-chan shut her mouth. Going back to listening to the Mastermind.

"Sorry Boss. Still can't understand why you let her that host a party. Despair is our game, not being all buddy buddy with our players. She even used our funds for fancy clothes for them losers! I was gonna use the cash for Mono-chan relax time! If I could I teach that little brat a thing or two" Mono-chan growled

"I need them distracted while our agent got some dirt on our remaining players. Besides, consider it a gift for them passing the first trial. Truly a marvelous show. That bluff of yours truly pushed Muffet to true despair. To kill a dear friend, oh my heart went wild with excitement! Hehehehaha!!" The figure clapped as the room echoed with their mad laughter.

"Ah! Got our best agents on the job, huh? Tell my favorite to keep up the chaos and bloodshed! Dirt huh? Ooooh~ Do I smell a juicy motive forming?" Mono-chan snickered

"Oh yes. Quite so" The Mastermind nodded. "Very much so~"

"Yes, maybe wearing a dress was worth it for once" Mono-chan ripped the dress in multiple shreds in a matter of seconds. "Maybe that brat having control once in a while ain't that bad"

"I'll keep that in mind. It is quite amusing to crush her hopes every time. The battle of Hope and Despair. A once in a lifetime fight which I really like to see" The Mastermind fingers repeatedly parted and touched in a menacing way.

"By the way, Boss....Did you run into trouble? I heard you have a few troublemakers on your tail. Should I send our little helper to give ya a hand? I can always do a cover story for why they went missing" Mono-chan offered. Looks pretty confident in whatever cover story she had planned.

"Not yet. It's best to keep our agent on the inside in the shadows for as long as they should be. It took forever to train them, let them enjoy our little game. Our agents on the outside can handle them. A hunting game for them will be fun. To think they can stop me. " The figure laughed again. "Guess it shouldn't surprise me that we have a resistance"

"That's honestly their most fatal mistake in their lives. Though who dares challenges you, may be fun to toy with later. Beside they did managed to slay one of our precious pets. They are the first to do so, no?" Mono-chan seem quite intrigued by the news.

"Number 45N3 was careless! Should have let that one rot! However it did surprise me that one of my beasts were taken down. Even the most perfectly refined designs will have flaws" The Mastermind sighed

"Well look on the bright side, boss" Mono-chan smiled

"And that is?" The figure asked annoyed. A bit of anger thrown into the mix.

"It will be even more satisfying once ya crush their hopes in the end. See the hope flee their eyes as you overwhelm them with sweet crushing despair. After all, they may play a game against ya but they don't make the rules do they? You're the Judge! The rule maker! A leader! Crushing them will be easy peasy~ Though you don't wanna destroy them... YOU WANNA MAKE THEM SUFFER!!" Mono-chan then erupted into crazied laughter.

"Haha! You're right. I do like making others suffer! That is the TRUE desire of despair, to CRUSH hope at all cost" The figure smiled.

"That's the spirit!" Mono-chan cheered

"I must go now, our agents request a meeting with me. Seems like our troublemakers are having a problem with the resistance. Keep me updayed on any progress" The figure was about to vanish from the screen.

"Hold it Boss, not to pry but who are these troublemakers. May I know their names pretty please" Mono-chan put on her best puppy dog eyes.

"Eugene, the Ultimate Accountant. The last living resident of what used to be Pure Heart Valley. Alongside him, it seems a member of the Mao family survived our attack on them. Yasu Mao, the Ultimate Sorceress" The Mastermind answered before the screen went completely black.

"A sweetypie bat and a cat hero huh? Do I smell deja vu? Heherawr~ Well I should get ready for tomorrow. Got more hopes to crush and despair to spread" With that Mono-chan left the room as well.

What events await our remaining players?

Who are these agents that the Mastermind keeps mentioning?

What troubles are Eugene and Yasu causing for the Mastermind?

Will hope win? Will despair triumph? Who knows. See ya next chapter! Heherawr~

Chapter Text

Daily Life Part 1:

I woke up early and actually had a good night sleep for the fifth night since Bobo-chan's party. Five days since we got a motive or seen any sight of Mono-chan.

"Weird" I got ready to meet with everyone at the Dining Hall.

The annoucement didn't come on without Mono-chan but it's best for all of us to still eat breakfast together. Plus it's the only chance we have to make an escape plan without Mono-chan listening in on us. Badgerclops and Cyber think they finally figured out how to get out of here.

"Finally we get to leave this sick place and see Adorabat again" I smiled before I finally opened the door.

Night has been cooking for us since Mono-chan disappeared. For today's breakfast, she made fried eggs, pancakes, fruit salads, and all of us got a tall glass of milk too. I got my serving and went to sat at a table. I sat near Tanya, Badgerclops, and Cyber. Tanya was enjoying the taste of the soft and fluffy pancakes. Badgerclops and Cyber were deep in conversation.

"Hey Mao! We did it! We figured it out!" Badgerclops happily exclaimed as he pulled me into a tight hug.

"You did?! Great job, you two!" I gave my happiest shark toothed smile.

Finally this nightmare would be over at last. No more Killing Games!

"Do you truly have a way to escape here?" Rufus didn't seem convinced at all.

"Yeah... After investigating every room, we found a secret door in the Library. Though it was securely locked with several firewalls on the electronic lock. Took me and Cyber a total of four days to get through them all. So once we finish eating then we'll be free" Badgerclops devours his whole plate.

"We can rwally go home?" Kevin asked, all excited.

Cyber nodded.

"Good. Now wecan leave this horrid place! I do so miss my king castle" Snugglemagne looke relieved.

"Only costed two lives" Night spoke bitterly

What's her problem? She's been in a mood since yesterday. I'm getting antagonist vibes from her.

"Yes...." Ol'Blue looked down. Guess he is still mourning.

Dr. Cuddlestien shared his expression.

"We can honor their memories after we leave this place" Tanya spoke up.

"If we leave. For all we know, that door is rigged with explosives or leads to another room that will soon be a murder scene" Night growled.

"Maybe but I say it's worth the risk. Besides do you really wanna stay here, Noches?" Orangusnake asked

Night's silence was her answer.

"Moonflower" Snugglemagne took Night's hand and embraced it with his own. "We know you are deeply concerned for us. The others have a point though. If we do not take this opportunity then pur friends would have died in vain"

"Fine but I still don't think it will be that easy" She certainly seems to calm down whenever Snugglemagne is around.

Though considering what Mono-chan has done so far, Night doubts aren't completely wrong either. The door could lead to freedom or another sick playground of twisted fun. Adorabat must need us right now, So I'm willing to roll the dice and take my chances.

After we all finished eating, having to wait a tad longer since Rufus took longer due to his injury. He seemed frustrated that he was struggling with using unstils like a toddler.

His nerves must have been messed up more than I first thought. Criminals may deserve justice but not like this. Guess his conning days are over.

Once we all made it to the Library, Cyber revealed the secret door to us. While Cyber began entering the codes to open the door as Badgerclops assisted.

"How did you two even find this? Was it by accident or did you suspect it was here since we found the room?" I was going to ask more before Badgerclops stopped me.

"First off, chill. Second, my robo arm was glitching out around a book shelf. Cyber's tail acted the same so we checked it over. We then found a book with a magnetic cover. We pulled it to reveal the door" He explained, rapidly typing in the key codes till the door opened.

A book with an unusual cover is quite strange. Could it really be as simple as that?

A bright light interrupted my thoughts. Could we really be free? Had this nightmare finally come to an end? Little did we know we only just entered an even bigger playing field.

"Finally! You loser are so slow! Racing snails was faster! The two geniuses sure took their precious little tome! I thought you had above average intelligence, yet you get an F triple minus for wasting time!" Mono-chan huffed. She's been here the whole time?!

"Mono-chan?!" Kevin ran to Night who took him into her arms.

"In the flesh, crybaby!" She teased. She pulled out a tophat that sprinkled various colors of confetti. "Welcome to your new and thrilling Killing Game stage, "Mono-Plaza! Fun attractions, fear filled rodes! Delicious food and carnival games that will make your heads spin! It is here where I shall gift you the second motive! Heheheherawr~"

No not again....!

Thr lights dimmed down just enough for us to see behind Mono-chan. A massive amusement park with a grand total of four major attractions. Not much of an amusement park if you ask me, but at least it tried to be. Only two of the attractions were actually rides while the other two were games and attractions. The first ride was a large log flute that was practically the size of a mega rollercoaster. There were three coaster logs that were marked with three symbols: A spade, A heart, and twin clovers. The ride itself went around the whole park. There were small statues of Mono-chan. In the center was a massive cave that looked like an Ice Dragon head, supposedly where we would enter to board the ride. Music that I never heard before echoed from the cave. Must be something Mono-chan thought of. From the looks of it, this was probably the most and only thrilling ride here. It was called "Logocoaster Flutide!"

"A log ride?" Cyber asked

"Yupers! This beautiful ride was made by yours truly! This ride can also be used to travel to other areas of the plaza too! Guess it's best to explain your new playground before I get to the best part. As you all probably saw unless you're near sighted, the ride had unique symbols. The twin clovers symboled log will take you to the "Hurricane Swings". The log with the heart symbol takes you to "The Performer Doll House", they are the ones who run park. They'll love you players! Especially our darling Sheriff. The spade log takes ya to "Monogames and Chanellenges!" I'm a sucker for carnvival games, so why not make some! Now any questions?" Mono-chan hummed

"You build the park yet you don't run it?" Orangusnake asked, quite puzzled.

"Despite being the creator, I can't be present here other then to tell you the rules that you already know, explainations that are obvious and best part of all: the motive~ Though I'll see everything through the park cameras"She answered

"Why is that?" Ol'Blue asked, taking more notes in his notebook. Probably filled that thing halfway right now.

"Just like you players, I'm also restricted by rules. In this area, my assistants are in charge for this game only. However if a murder does occur then that rule gets terminated. Any other-....wait a minute..." She faceplams " I can get them to explain the boring chit chat! I'm just getting to the motive and getting me some black licorice flavored cotyon candy!" Looks like she really got impaitent.

Guess she's upset that she isn't allow here...

"There's food?!" Badgerclops face lit up

The rest of us either shook our heads or faceplaming from his words.

"So what's the motive now?" Night asked, comforting the scared Kevin in her arms

"Finally a question I love to answer! I got some very juicy information from my agents outside. I must say a few of you got some dark secrets, a shame if they were to be revealed~" Mono-chan snickered

We paled. She knows our secrets?! Whaaaaaat?! How?!

"O-our secrets?" Snugglemagne asked as he shook like a leaf in the wind

"Are ya deaf or something?! Geez, where is Dorothy to collect her cowardly lion? How are you the rule of the valley? Some pride you have, your majesty. I know all the secrets you all prefer to remain hidden in the dark. Each day, I'll make a special annoucement to confess your secrets. The only way to stop this is to kill someone!" She twirled around in happiness

"Whaaat?!" Penny and Benny gasped together. Holding one another for comfort.

Before I could ask her anything, Mono-chan vanished. Ugh...I hate it when she does that!! Guess we'll need to ask those assistants she mentioned earlier. Hope they're more help then their boss.

Since this park is big, I'll need help investigating. I got the perfect partnet in mind too. My best friend of course!

"Badgerclops, wanna look around the park with me?" I asked him

"Yeah dude! I want to see if that black licorice flavored cotton candy tasted good" He licked his lips in anticipation

"Alright. So where should we start?" I couldn't decide on where to begin. Best that Badgerclops decides.

"Monogames and Chanellenges! There will surely have snacks there!" He insisted

I could only chuckle at this. Same ol' Badgerclops.

We entered the "Logocoaster Flutide" which looked like a monster skull bone than a cave. Give off an eerie vibe too. I touched the wall to only pull it back immediately in horror. The walls were made of real bones. Questions is, where they of monsters or innocent lives? There were a few orange lightbulbs that illuminated the cavern where the logs appeared. The ride's operator was concealed in the shadows. We asked for the spade log. They nodded at us and said it would take a few minutes.

Maybe I can see what Badgerclops thinks of all this. We haven't really talked much lately since the party or breakfast.

"Hey Badgerclops. How are you handling everything? Especially regarding Bobo-chan being trapped in Mono-chan. I've been meaning to ask you" I rubbed the back of my head nervously, before I got to look him in the eye.

"I cried after we found out, dude. Bobo-chan has no freedom here! Like a player controlling a videogame icon. I love my daughter, Bobo-chan. Seeing her like this...." He holds his chest with his shaky robo arm "....Breaks my heart"

Badgerclops....

"Now that monster who possesses her body has made her start this evil game where we lost two friends....I..I..." His knees gave our and he sobbed a bit.

I just hugged my best friend. I am not one to be hugger or like to recieve them either. Yet for him, I made an exception. He was so torned by this. All I could truly do right now was comfort him. Whispering sweet promises that everything would be ok. Even if it may turn into lies.

Maybe this gift would cheer him up.

"Here you go, Badgerclops!" I gave him a paper crown which was painted golden yellow and decorated with gemstones used in arts and crafts.

"Mao, do you mean?..." He gasps with a smile. Covering his mouth with tears pricking his eyes.

I bowed infront of him. "As you command!"

"Then let's go eat some snacks!" He gestured, smiling again.

"Yes my liege" I nodded

We arrived at the entrance of Monogames and Chanellenges. There were several game stalls and food stands as well. I was amazed by all the games. Ring Toss, Balloon Pop, Ball Toss were a few of the games that were there. There were a couple others which I didn't recognize. Pirhana Fishing, Wack a Monster, Cobra Basket Ball Pit. All of them were life threatening and must be all of Mono-chan original designed. The prizes variety from plushie, food, and real life magicial relics.

"Those relics...." I recognized those relics. Those were of my ansectors and my older sister Yasu.

"Mao. Is everything okay?" Badgerclops asked, putting his robo arm on my shoulder.

I decided not to tell him. It wasn't the time. I suggested that it was better to play the non deadly games.

Yasu.... What happened to you...?

"Helloooo~" A cheery voice was coming towards us.

The moment I saw the owner of the voice, I freaked out

Before us was a puppet. One which looked like a real life chipmunk. He was made of refined cherry wood with green crystal eyes. He had a clown outfit that was half orange and half green. He wore a hat with bells on. He had black and turquoise face paint, his cheeks had the spade symbols. In his paws were cards that differ color and symbols.

"Ahh! Aaaah!! AHHHHHH!!" I screamed to the top of my lungs before Badgerclops covered my eyes.

"So the assistants that Mono-chan mentioned are you puppets?" Badgerclops asked.

"Yup Yupie Yupperoo~ I'm in charge of Monogames and Chanellenges! I give the plaza visitors all kinds of fun and thrilling challenges! The puppet chipmunk clown, Acro!" Acro!" Acro flipped around us. Giving a new meaning to "Puppet with no strings"

Puppets?! It just had to be puppets?! Curse you Mono-chan!

"What's with the cards?" Badgerclops pointed at the cards in Acro's paws

"Oh these? Well we puppets were ordered to let you players visit onlt two attractions a day. Day is a free pass but tomorrow is when this starts. This cards must be given the players, the puppet in charge will have to monitor everyone's whereabouts. In addition, ya can't visit the same attraction twice.Otherwise....Hehehe~" Acro gave us our cards for tomorrow before walking away laughing.

Badgerclops uncovered my eyes the moment Arco was out of sight.

"Puppets run the plaza?!" I was already panicking. My breathing went fast.

"Dude, let's just chill and have some cotton candy" Badgerclops took my hand and led me to the stand serving cotton candy.

Eating this cotton candy with my best friend, made me feel that we grew even closer today.

There was still a bit of daylight. Maybe I can hang out with someone else. I took the heart log to the "Performer Doll House". Surprisingly Snugglemagne was there too. Alone and sad.

"Are you alright my liege?" I walked up to him, comforting him the best I could.

"Oh hello there Sheriff" He smile at me for a second then his frown returned. His eyes were a bit puffy too.

Had he been crying?

"Have you been crying?" A bit straightforward I know but I wanted to know.

Before he could answer me, yet another one of those accursed puppets appeared. I yelped and hid behind Snugglemagne.

"Greetings my most honored guests to "Performer Doll House", I am countess Ruby Sugarplum. I managed this charming little area here" Out of the shadows, she appeared.

Before us was a Quokka made out of violet colored elm wood. She wore a silver fedora with a black veil attached to it. Her hair was in emerald green curls. Her golden crystal eyes glow in the house's dark abyss. She wore a whitish violet dress that appeared handmade , the seams of a neon red stitching. The dress covered her legs completely due to her small size, but my sharp hearing picked up the clucking of heels. She wore a pair of white silk gloves. In the left, she held a fan which concealed the lower half of her face. The right glove had a heart symbol and held the same cards that Acro did.

As if one wasn't bad enough! Two are even worse!! This is my worse fear brought to life!!

"Greetings Ruby. I am King Snugglemagne the 25th. Please excuse the sheriff here. I thought he was more respectable towards a lady with your rank in royality. Suppose I was wrong" Snugglemagne glared at me with a "I thought you were better than this" look.

Well sorry, my biggest fear is right in front of us now! So excuse me if I don't greet them!

"Oh, it's quite alright~ I do apologize if I startled you two. I rarely get vistors than the others. In the "Performer Doll House", myself along with my dearest subjects performour lovely three shows for them. As a thank you for watching one, we bow to you. For watching two is a prize of your choice. For watching all three, you get a fun pass to an extra attraction" Ruby explained. Giggling a few times in between sentences.

"So do you get to go to three attractions with this fun pass?" I asked, using all my strength and courage.

"Indeed. Gold star for you" Ruby nods. "However only one has won the "Fun Pass extra" thus far"

Someone won it already huh? Wonder who?

"Sadly there was only the one copy" Ruby covered her eyes with her fan. "My deepest apologies"

Darn...Welp no show for me then. Thank goodness.

"Lady Ruby, even without the grand prize...The two of us would be honored to witness your shows. All three" Of course, Snugglemagne would say that.

Looks like it's nightmares for me tonight. My liege....why?!! JUST WHY?!?!

"Oh thank you. Just give me a few minutes to get ready" Ruby happily went deeper into the house to prepare all three shows.

"Sounds delightful" Snugglemagne waved before facing me "How could you be so rude to her?! To a countess no less! Were you raised with no manners at all?!" He looked pretty crossed at me

"It's not that" I debated if I should tell him my fear. Would he think less of me? Think I am less than a hero?! What do I do?

"Do you have any words for your rudeness?" He crossed his arms, expecting an answer.

"Can you keep my secret?" Ol' Blue always told me to put more of my trust in others. Best to start by sharing mu deepest fear.

"Does it explain your behavior?" He asked as he raised a brow.

I nodded

"Then by all means. Please tell me" Snugglemagne seemed curious to know, he relaxed his posture and seemed ready to listen.

"I have pupaphobia. I am beyond scared of puppets. When I was six, my dad hired a ventriloquist for my birthday. As soon as I saw the puppet...I felt uncomfortable and got scared. When it's head popped off and landed in my lap is when I felt traumatized. My dad told me to shake it off....That heroes aren't afraid of anything. I thought I had overcome it before coming to the valley. Of course I was wrong. One day while spring cleaning, Badgerclops got a ventriloquist dummy which Adorabat named Mr. Din Danalin. I tried to avoid the thing to prove that I wasn't scared of it, even if I really was. When a monster was attacking the valley..." I took a deep breathe before continuing. " I got surrounded by a ton of them since Gary was selling them nearby. My body froze while my friends fought the monster. If Adorabat didn't help me than Badgerclops wouldn't still be here nor the valley. Even after all that...puppets still frighten me" I shook a bit as I finished talking.

"We supposed that does explain your behavior. We do apologize that we judged you for it. We shall keep your secret. We promised" He gave me a reassuring smile.

"Thank you. I feel a bit better after telling you" I nodded, smiling a bit.

Maybe now is the time to ask about what happened between him and Night.

"Since I shared with you, may I asked what happened between you and Night? Orangusnake probably knows too but I doubt he tell me the actual truth" I just waited for a response.

"I opened an old wound.... I mentioned that being so overprotective over Kevin will just be as painful as how she tried to be with her little brother. Though her efforts failed that "one night", losing him forever. During our agruement after the trial.....I told her that she'll probably lose Kevin just as she did Timber. My anger caused me to speak those words. Ones that cause irreversible damage, Sheriff. Night just looked betrayed....It was if I had hit her....Ever since, she has not been the same. Night can't even stand to be around me now" He held his arm before breaking into a sob.

"That's why she is like this? She's probably really hurt but, I thought you two made up. Guess I was wrong" I would feel the same way if I lost one of my sisters then have someone talk about them in a similar situation.

I hope she feels better soon. Snugglemagne is in great pain without her comfort. Bet she is too. It may not be much but maybe this could help him a bit.

"Your Grace, I think this may help you" I bowed before him as I presented my gift.

It was a Ruby Pure Candy Apple! A candy crystal coated apple that was a dessert for only the royal Snugglemagne line to have. The apple was shaped in the popular heart shape that the valley was known for. The candy coating was made by only the royal chefs, a secret to anyone but them. My mom would make me sweets whenever I was sad. Bet this works for Snugglemagne as well.

"How did you know that these are my favorite?" Snugglemagne smiled as he took the treat.

"Lucky guess" I chuckled.

Soon Ruby came back and guided us through the dark halls to her stage. It look like a theater with red velvet carpet. The curtains were red velvet too, tied back with golden braided ropes. The lights above us were softly dim as ones at the movies. We sat in metal chairs with violet cushions. We sat in the front row, being the only two here.

Pretty soon the curtains opened up and the first show began. Ruby was dancing among several puppets. These puppets were normal ones with strings attached. They wore elegant dresses along with make up, all I could watch till I closed my eyes out of fear. Judging from the sounds of Snugglemagne gasps and several rounds of applause. The first show must have been really good. After hearing nothing for over a few minutes is when I believed the first show was over. The two of us waited about five minutes before the second show began. Ruby was in a valley that greatly resembled Pure Heart Valley. There she stood under a crystal she sang for. It shook violently before a monster puppet bursted out of it. I screamed as did Snugglemagne. We hugged each other, scared out of our minds. The curtains closed yet again. Thank goodness!! Though the intermission didn't last long. The third and final show started... Worse of all, I couldn't shut my eyes from the horror before me. Ruby was happily dancing in the ruins of the once cheery valley. Backgrounds were reduced to rumble and ashes. The puppets from the first show were dismembered, partly destroyed, splitered, cracked, burned, and worse of all eaten. In the center of the burning stage was the monster from the second show, amirking with puppet pieces in it's fang. Before the curtains could close, a small blue bat puppet was about to be attacked. Looks just like Adorabat....

Was there a deeper meaning to this...? Is this Mono-chan way of telling me that Adorabat is now....No! This is just a twisted mind game! She's fine! My precious little deputy is just fine!!

Snugglemagne and I left the house right after witnessing that horror show.

Thus is exactly why I HATE AND FEAR PUPPETS!!

Despite this traumatizing experience, Snugglemagne and my bond together grew close today.

Since it was getting late and I didn't want to see anymore puppets today. We all went back to our dorms for the night for some rest. Well all except me thanks to nightmares. Decided to try to sleep anyways if that were possible.

Elsewhere, Mono-chan was making the game itself hold more challenge and mystery. She gathered three players yo the Meeting Room at the late hour to chat.

"Why did you wake us up?!" The first player demanded. Obviously upset from being woken up.

"Mono-chan , why did you bring us here?" The second voice asked. Much calmer than the first.

The third person remained silent. Awaiting for whatever Mono-chan had to tell them.

"Well my dear players~ I have personally selected you three to recieve your own personal motives! Rawrehehehe~" Mono-chan gighled at the shocked three players

"Personal motives?! You already gave s all a motive, so why give the three of us another one?!" The second player had to hold back the first player who fumed with such anger.

"To make the game more interesting. Plus it's more fun this way" That was all Mono-chan said for an answer.

Mono-chan handed each of them a slip of paper that explain their own personal motive. It also said that if they spoke about this to anyone other than themselves, that Mono-chan would execute them and their closet friends here on the spot. However if they succeed then the player and their closet friends would be spared. Only a maximum of gour friends would be spared though.

"By the way, you three can't work together on a murder. One player does their own murder. You can not share the motive you have been given during the game to anyone. Not even between the three of you. Mono-chan yawn a bit " Well you three got your motives. Time for my beauty sleep. Doubt you all will get much now, Rawrehehehe~" Saying that Mono-chan vanished in the darkness of the Meeting Room.

Leaving the three players alone.

"I'm not doing this....No way" The second player spoke first.

"Me either! This game is bad enough! That little devil told my secret today! Ugh!! I want to rip her apart and split her in two!" The first player agreed, still fuming.

"Yeah....though-" The third player was about to speak when the second cut them off.

"Don't tell me that you are considering it. Think about it! That is only playing into Mono-chan claws! We have all seen what happens if you are caught! Not to mention that you have to kill a friend to even do so! Think! It's a mind game which both outcomes lead to death! Don't ever think about it or mention it!" The second player practically yelled at the third player.

"Yeah! We all swore that there would be no more killing games! We already lost two friends, we don't need to lose anymore!" The first player agreed

".....Alright" The third player finally seemed to come to their senses

The other two players seemed pleased by this and went back to their dorm rooms to salvaged any sleep they could get for the night. The third player remained frozen in place, troubled by the thought of the plaguing situation in their mind.

"......What do I do? What do I do?" They mutter to themselves.

What events shall unfold from here? Who are the other two puppets who run the plaza? Why has Mono-chan truly given the three mysterious players additional motives? However the biggest question of all: Shall a murder happen due to the main motive or the newly added secret ones.

Stay tune~

......................

"My, my, Isn't this quite an interesting turn of events? Mono-chan really is stepping up her game, huh? Maybe it will be amusing to watch" The Mastermind watched from their own secret room.

"....." The traitor was with them. Unusally silent.

"You....oh please tell me you aren't starting to feel sorry for them. You are my best agent of despair, can't really have you turn on me now. You know that doing so is a death setence" They warned. The Mastermind certainly hated to be crossed.

Trust issues possibly?

"No. I am your agent of despair. An enemy of hope as well as your personal right hand. My feelings are merely an act to fool the players. I am only loyal to you. You were the one who woke up from hope's illusional spell over me" The traitor loyalty was absolute to their boss.

"Good, had me going there for a moment. Though I know better than to know that you would try to betray me. I saved you after all, from them" The Mastermind smiled.

The traitor nodded.

What does the traitor mean? How did the Mastermind save them? Who are the "Them" that the traitor was saved from?

For real this time, Stay Tune Rawrehehehe~

Chapter Text

Daily Life Part 2:

The definition of sleep is allowing the body and mind to rest for a maximum of eight hours. The mind will sometimes play images that we call dreams which form based on our imaginations, or bits and piees of our memories. Most of my dreams are daring adventures while earning praise from my sisters and father. Though last night dream troubled me a great deal. Guess a better word to describe it would be nightmare.

In the nightmare, I was in a void of darkness. In the darkness is where I heard yells and screams for help. I looked around to try and find where the voices where coming from, however not even my sharp hearing could locate them. I felt scared and frustrated about my situation. I'm a hero yet trapped in this void of darkness, people pleading their hearts out for help, I being useless to them. Then one voice that broke pass all the others. I fell to my knees. Adorabat....

"Mao Mao!! Where are you?! Please come back to me!! I need you!! Monsters are invading the valley, I can't do this alone....Please....I need you....I don't want to be alone....I need my hero..." She sounded so scared, obviously sobbing.

"Adorabat!! I am right here! Tell me where you are!!" I called out. Looking around desperately to find my dear little deputy.

"You left me alone......" Her voice began to fade away.

"No! Adorabat, I would never leave you! We will find you I swear, my little deputy! Badgerclops and I will escape and find you!" I called out more. What is the use of night vision if I can't see my apprentice?!

Just as I was about to lose hope. I saw a small blue figure standing in the center of the void. Adorabat?! Without giving it a second thought, I ran to her.

"Adorabat!!" Just as I was about to give her a long awaited hug, her nex words forced me to wake up.

"You failed me...some hero"

I woke up in tears. Mono-chan's mind games are really messing with my head. Here I thought nightmares of puppets would terrify me. How much longer can I fight off this pain? What did she mean by "You failed me"?. Is it because me and Badgerclops aren't there with her? Did Mono-chan do something to her? Was this all just another mind game to drive me crazy enough to kill?

Sick....Just sick

Still had an hour before I needed to go to the Morning Annoucement. One I will spend clearing my thoughts as well as calm my nerves to the best of my abilities. I should be okay, for now at least.

Father told me that even the most deadliest of monsters can be slayed. Does that apply to fears or our own inner troubles. Are they not monsters themselves? How could I slay what I do not understand? More importantly, how do we stop a monster that can't be slayed, one with the power to make us play her twisted games like Mono-chan?

However if we are trapped here... How does the outside world fare? Is it the same as we known or a worse hell then this?

The hour went by faster than I thought it would. I supposed that I have calm down the best that I could. Haven't felt like this in a long time. The intense feeling of fear or being useless in a situation that is in dire need for a hero. Only after witnessing Countess Ruby shows is the moment these terrors began to spoke to me.

I opened the door to the Dinner Hall. Perhaps some food will further assist in calming my nerves. I should tell Badgerclops about this too. I got another hunch about something, something about that park twists your mind.

I got today's breakfast of oatmeal with grapefruit along it was. a tall glass of milk. My eyes caught Night and Snugglemagne happily talking to each other again. Seems like she finally forgave him. Good for you Night.

Badgerclops and Cyber invited me over to their table to sit with them. I accepted without a second thought.

"Heya Dude! How did you sleep? Did you have any nightmares of you know what?" He did his best to keep my fear a secret from Cyber. I really appreciate that.

"Not about them. Though I did have one about Adorabat" I explain the details of my dream to him.

"Dude...." He looked just as I did when I woke up from dream. Terrify and all kinds of worried.

"I know. We need to get out of here. Adorabat needs us. Probably scared out of her mind....Alone..." I shivered a bit at the last word I spoke.

Alone.... No one deserves that. Especially a five year old child.

"Anyways I met the other three puppets yesterday. Jade the Performer who runs "Hurricane Swings". Jolt the Ride Operator who seems to run "Logoaster Flutide". Then me and Sorrow ran into a elmwood baby penguin puppet named Flakes. By the looks of him, he seems to be in charge of the plaza" Cyber chimed in. Glad to see that he's becoming less shy around others now.

Three? Shouldn't there be four? Now there are five of these puppets roaming around?! Ugh!!

"That means at least one may know how to leave this place" I thought to myself

"Hello~ Mono-chan could not attend today. Cotton candy stomache. So it is my greatest honor to be temporary Ultimate Headmaster till then~ Ladies and Gentlemen~ Sweetypies of all ages~ Feast your eyes on the coldest yet lovable penguin made of Arctic elmwood, Flakes Penguinette the Ulitmate Puppet Assistant! I'm very pleased to meet you all. Hopefully we'll all have a chilling delightful time together!" We all turned to see our temporary headmaster.

Flakes was practically a mirror image of Mono-chan. On the left side of his body was navy blue elmwood as well as floofy feather hair too. His left eye was fushica pink crystal. The right was all black with a massive crack where his eye should be. More of a claw mark gash. He wore a black top hat with a navy blue ribbon along with a black rose which had strange blue leaves. He wore a navy blue scarf too.

"Does that mean that you have something to give us?" Night broke the silence first

"Yes. Please take these tickets" He handed out several different cards to us.

I got a lime green card with the twin clovers symbol for the "Hurricane Swings". Then I got a light blue water like card with a dragon head symbol on it. The only place in the place related with dragons is the "Logocoaster Flutide". Well Mono-chan did mention it was a ride. Come to think of it, the operator didn't say anything to is. They stayed in the shadows the whole time. Strange....

"That's all for now~ Have a blizzard of fun!" Flakes sang before vanishing.

A mirror image as well as copying her tricks. It seems Flakes is the perfect substitute for Mono-chan. Least he seems more friendly.

"Mister Mao Mao....May I accompany you" Sorrow walked up to me. They had a lime green card for "Hurricane Swings" just like me.

"Sure!" This was the best oppurnity to get to know Sorrow better. Might be my one and only chance.

In a flash, we took the log with the twin clovers symbol to the "Hurricane Swings". Let me tell you that this ride was way more bumpier than the others. Sorrow just remained silent the whole time. It was pretty concerning for a kid their age.

We got off and were greeted by yet another one of those accursed wooden puppets. More nightmares! Just why did Mono-chan choose them as assistants anyways?!?!

"Heya! I'm up here!" The voice came from above us.

We saw a green frog puppet swinging around the bars which connected to the chains of the duo colored swing chairs. She was made with palm tree wood dyed a summer green. Her huge crystal eyes were a crimson red. She wore a bright yellow performer's dress covered in emerald green palm leaf designs. She wore white tights too which had a few slight tears on them. Probably from her stunts like swinging fifteen feet in the air on the bars of the ride itself.

The puppet jumped down to greet us. Springs on the soles of her feet gave her a real spring in her step. Mono-chan certainly pays attention to species details.

"Hello...." Sorrow greets the frog.

"Aww why so sad? What you need is a twister of an attitude change! Jade Springuppet the Ultimate Performer will surely make you leap for joy!" She smiled, on her tongue was the twin clovers symbol in dark green ink.

"Sorry.....I no longer feel anything but sadness. No happy or feeling mad....For all I feel is sad" Sorrow sighed

"Huh? You can still have fun right?" Jade asked them.

Kind of glad that Jade did not notice me yet. I'm terrified as it is already.

"I suppose" Sorrow answered Jade's question.

"Welp, I see you two have "Hurricane Swings" cards" She swiped the cards from our hands. "So which ride mode would you like?"

Ride mode?

"R-ride mode? Care to explain?" I struggled to ask. Trying my best to keep a brave front for Sorrow's sake.

"Yup! We have three modes on the swings. One is "Whirlwind", It spins at standard speed. Two is "Twister", it increases the ride speed by three and you get the feel as if you're in a real live twister. Mode three is my personal favorite and the name of the ride itself! Mode three is "Hurricane", the ride goes at level ten speed that if you sit in the special chair....You'll be hurled all the way to another attraction!! HEHEHEROAK~ It nearly happened to that porcupine kid on "Twister" Mode. Ashame that wolf grabbed him before he fell out" Jade was just as sick as Mono-chan! Her smile was just a twisted form of happiness. She then smiled more. "His screams were my personal favorite. The sheer terror errupting from the tippy top from his little lungs! He might be my favorite player so far"

I paled. Who gets this happy about screams?! This place is tthe fuel place of all nightmares!

"So which mode would you like?" Jade asked

"Mode-" I wanted to say mode one but Sorrow beat me to it.

"Mode two" Sorrow answered.

What?! Is this kid insane?!

"Excellent choice! Hop on in" She guided us to our seats

Now is the perfect time to talk to Sorrow! Like ask them why they chose this mode!!

"Sorrow...Why did you pick "Twister" ?!" I accidentally yelled as we put our seatbelts on

"....I like dangerous situations. I don't have a clear memory of my life before becoming Sorrow" They turned to me

Amnesia like Cyber? What was their past life before becoming the Ultimate Sadness? What was their true name? Not Sorrow but a true name....

"I remember his smile..." Sorrow spoke again. "I think I had this friend who got into dangers with me. Though seeing his smile helped me laugh. At least it used to.."

"What happened to this friend?" I asked while the ride began to move. My neon green eyes soley focused on Sorrow.

"He disappeared three years ago" They answered. "After that I became the Ultimate Sadness"

So that's how it happened. Shock caused the poor kid to forget their past self and become Sorrow. All due to losing a friend... The pain of losing a friend... I knew that feeling all too well....

The ride spun around faster. I screamed as I slowly started to feel my stomach churn. Sorrow said nothing. Kid had nerves of steel. The ride lasted about ten more minutes before it finally stopped. Jade let us out shortly afterwards. I immediately dashed to the nearest trash can and puked my stomach out till it was empty.

"You're screams were hilarious!!" Jade laughed "Heheheroak!"

Oh shut it Jade!! Let me puke in peace!

"Will you be okay...?" Sorrow asked. Their tone sounded generally concerned

I gave them a thumbs up. May this gift I give them, finally give them happiness again.

"Here" I haned them a sixty four pack of crayons. "I noticed you like to draw and color with Kevin. Thought you might like these" I smiled

Sorrow took the crayons before holding them close. Like a special treasure. Thank you" They whispered before leaving.

I waved goodbye then I realized that I never asked about their gender! Ugh! Stupide Jade and her dumb swings! Bet they aren't up to code! Well at least I learned a bit about them. A piece in the puzzle of questions.

Well, I got one card left and time to spare. Time to ride the "Logocoaster Flutide"! Just pray that the puppet running it stays in it's shadowd. Just stay in it's shadows...

I saw Tanya was there. Waiting for me.

She was standing there, looking up at the ride. Her turquoise eyes staring at it fondly. She closed them while taking in a breathe of warm air. She knew I was there.

"Heya Mittens~" Not even having to turn around to face me. Greets me kindly.

"Tanya, how long have you been waiting for me?" I asked, moving closer to her.

"Not long. Come on. Let's ride this coaster together. Me and you, just like old times" She took my hand and we walked to the ride's entrance.

She seems troubled. I never seen Tanya like this before.

"Hello there" We both jumped as a voice greeted us from the shadows.

Oh come on!!! Not another puppet! Huh... this one seems much more different than the other ones.

A tabby grey and and white kitten puppet made out oakwood approached us. He look damaged , cracks around his right eye. His entire left arm was missing. Sparks came out of the socket where it should be. His right eye was a silverish grey. On his forehead was the dragon head symbol forcefully carved. He wore a torned shirt that appeared to have been blue, now heavily faded and dirty. Even is tail that that he was struggling to drag needed maintenance. It barely moved. When it did, it made a unbearable squeak sound.

I can't believe it. I'm starting to feel sad for this puppet. It begins to outweight my fear. Puppet or not, this is just a kid. It angers me to see him in such a state.

"I'm Perc- Jolt Craddlestrings....The Ultimate Ride Operator. I am the youngest here. I am in charge of running "Logoaster Flutide". I assume you two are here to ride the actual ride.... Heh, been a while since anyone came to ride since they took over" He smiled sadily

"So you all weren't made by Mono-chan, were you?" I asked as I kneeled down to Jolt level.

"Noo..Flakes was made by her. The rest of us were taken from our old home. My friends got reprogrammed.... They nearly got me but Flakes just destroyed parts of me so that I couldn't fight back. Making me defenseless so I can't stop him. That's all I can say" He looked away, Focusing on his missing arm. "Let's get you two on the ride" He tried to smile the best he could.

I remember that Mono-chan said that there were cameras everywhere. Probably the real reason Jolt isn't talking. Judging by his injuries, if he talks then he gets hurt. Here I thought that Flakes wasn't so bad. Guess the saying is true. You never know the person behind the mask they wear on the outside.

We followed Jolt to the special log cart with the dragon head symbol. We got in before Jolt started the ride.

"Have a lovely ride" He smiled as the log began to move down the water.

Tanya softly moved her hand through the cold water, her mind seemed to be elsewhere. Never in all the time that I lnew her had she ever been this quiet.

Wonder what got her so troubled? Time to talk.

The ride began to go up the first flume hill which was about fifteen feet tall. Much taller than an average log flume hill. It was going to take a while before we got to the top, so it is a perfect time to talk.

"So what's on your mind?" Tanya looked at me in surprise

"Hm? Oh I guess what's been happening lately has finally hit me. I've been helping Sorrow and Cyber through their grief that I haven't really been thinking of my own. Mittens, I don't want to lose anyone else. Our secret was revealed today...The real reason why we stopped working together...I ignored the rules the day we went to save that young raccoon kid... he was nearly killed because I broke the rule about using the woods as a shortcut. The villagers warned us about the monster that lived there yet I still ignored them and broke it....Now that boy is missing an ear because of me" She ran her hands down her face.

I remember that day too. A bear like monster had been plaguing the forest the forest for years before we came to the village. I clearly remember telling Tanya to avoid the forest to get the boy back to the village, while I handled his kidnappers. Once I finished with them and took out their jackal leader who was just crazy. I made my way back to the village. Then I heard screams from the forest. It was the boy. Tanya held him as she was fighting the monster back. The boy was sobbing as he was holding where his right ear was. We managed to get away and get away and get the boy back to his father. The two of us yelled at each other about the rules and risks till we parted ways. To be honest, I haven't thought about that day for a long time. Despite that risk....it was not Tanya's fault exactly.

"Tanya.... That day was not your fault. When we were rushing back to the village, remember we took the long way back? That jackal leader burned down the bridge after we crossed it. They had planned to trap us. You were just trying to get the boy back home fast. He is still alive thanks to the amazing bounty hunter before me. The father even thanked us because all he cared about is that he got his son back home safe. I was mad that day because I thought you broke the rules due to your own ideals. So you're the one who taught me that there are times where the rules must be broken. I promise I'll keep our friends safe, Keys! You are one of my friends after all" I held her hand and gave her a reassuring look.

"Mittens...." She then leaned in close, putting her head against mine. Nuzzling her head softly against mine. "You really have changed. I am glad that we are friends again"

I hugged her and smiled "Me too, Tanya. Me too"

We finally got to the top of the hill before the huge drop down. Then series of hills, sharp turns, a few spirals. Even a bigger hill that must have been thirty feet tall. At the drop, our picture was taken and I got drenched. Not Tanya. Just me.

Why is it that every time I get in a log ride, it's only me who gets soaked?!

Tanya laughed at this. Seems like this cheered her up. Glad about that at least. We got out the log and made our way back to the dorms.

Didn't see Jolt though. Hope he's okay.

Well I have one more surprise for Tanya before we call ot a night.

"Here you go" I handed her a crystal leaf necklace that looks like the ones that Tanya always uses. I actually got it for her during our days being partners together.

"Oh Mittens... It's beautiful" She put on the silver chained necklace, placing her hand on the crystal leaf. "Thank you Mao Mao"

"Thank you for being my friends again, Tanya. Thank you for supporting me through this whole ordeal" I smiled softly before going to my dorm room.

I could feel that me and Tanya friendship got closer today.

I fell asleep in a real good mood. Maybe there won't be another Killing Game! All we have to do is escape from here.

Just as I was having my hopes up, the unthinkable happened. Something that sicken my stomach to the core.

A loud alert with fog horn echoes while flashing red lights made me wake up with a jolt. Then the Echoes change into creepy carnival music only played at abandoned amusement parks. Laughter soon followed. My Monophone chimec as a video link appeared. This is certainly different from how Mono-chan did things. I did my best to prepare myself for what I was about to see. This scene would forever haunt me more than any nightmare. A horror for those who had pupaphobia like me.

The moment I clicked the video, I paled. In the video was Flakes sitting on Mono-chan's throne. Around him were the destroyed bodies of Ruby, Acro, and Jade. Their bodies were practically scrap or a pile of firewood by now. Howevet their crystal eyes glew as if their souls stayed trapped in their wooden prisons. Thank goodness that Jolt wasn't there. He must have gotten away. As I stared more closely, I became more horrorified. Above Flakes were marionettes of us. The ones of Farmer Bun and Muffet on the floor. Discarded like trash. Flakes was in complete darkness other then the light from the video recorder. He smiled in pure happiness as his cracked eye emitted a omnious red glow. Almost demonic like.

"My my, looks like my little friends aren't the only ones who kicked the bucket. Well they can be rebuild but players can not sadly" He hummed before chuckling. "I gotta say that I didn't except my domain becoming a murder scene, yet that's how the wood splinters eh? That being said...hm? How does lady Mono-chan say it? Hmmmmm...Oh right!" Flakes claps before picking up the three puppet heads, twirling around without a care in the world. "Bing Bong Ding Dong~ A body has been discovered~ Players please head over to the "Logoaster Flutide"! Hehehehaha~" He then crushed the heads into wood chips. Laughing wildly before the video ended.

"Wha..." All I could manage to say. My legs felt like jelly for the first time. As if it is a feeling crushed by an overwhelming feeling of dread. After about my third try, I finally made my way to Mono-Plaza. My willpower was the only thing that was helping me move. Why? How could I let this happen again? Why is my heart hurting more than before? Was this personal?

If a body has been discovered at "Logoaster Flutide", then Jolt must have seen something. He runs the ride after all.

Before I could enter "Logoaster Flutide", Badgerclops stopped me. What does he think that he's doing?!

"Badgerclops let me in" I demanded

"Mao Mao, you can't see her like this..." His voice trailed off as he looked away from me.

Her?

"Who is it? Night? Penny? Dr.Cuddlestien? .....Tanya?" I could already feel the color drained from my face.

My heart clenched hard as if it already knew. No....No...

"Mao,I'm so sorry...Look you shouldn't see her like this. Flakes already agreed that you can sit this one out. Listen...Don't let this be how you remember her" He knew that I figured it out. He tried to hug me but I pushed him away.

"Let me in" My voice was shaking yet I kept my tone as serious as possible

"Mao-"

"LET ME SEE HER!!" I pointed Geraldine at him. Tears clouded my vision. Why? WHY HER?! I was with her just a few hours ago! Just a few hours ago...

Badgerclops hesitated but he he did not move.

"If you vauble our friendship then move!" I yelled, gripping harder on Geraldine handle. More tears blued my sight.

"Mao.."" Badgerclops sighed in defeat before finally letting me pass.

I threw Geraldine to the floor and rushed inside. There everyone had gather. Cyber was being comforted by Ol' Blue. Penny and Benny were sobbing hard as the two hugged one another. Rufus lean against the wall, he seem troubled and disturb by something. Most likely her body... Snugglemagne and Kevin were sobbing nearby the entrance. Their hearts probably couldn't take what they witnessed. Surprised Night wasn't with them. She and Orangusnake were talking close by the two. Both appear to be having a private conversation among themselves. Night stopped talking the moment she saw me. Her eyes looked so sorry for me.

"Where? I asked her

Night pointed to the area where we waited to get in the logs to ride "Logoaster Flutide", or use the other log carts for transport.

I mouth the words "Thank you" to her before heading there.

Not ready for what I would witness. Then again I doubt I was ever ready. No one could truly be ready to see something such as this....

The minute I set foot in the boarding area, the eerie carvival music started again. It sent intense chills down my spine.

There right beside the log with the dragon heaf symbol were Dr. Cuddlestien and Sorrow. Sorrow seemed to be crying.

Beside me, Sorrow was really close to Tanya too.

With shaky steps, I made my way to the log. Each step is harder to take than the last. Almost as if my legs were covered in concrete.

"Well, Well. Look whose late to the party. Not really heroic if you ask me. I always thought Heroes arrive before danger came" Flakes taunted

I just ignored him as I continued my way to the log.

" Oh boy are you ever stubborn. I am giving you a once-in-a-lifetime pass to sit out a trial. No one gets that you know! Welp, I tried to spare you the pain" Flakes shook his head a bit.

"...." I finally came to the log. I closed my eyes before going to look inside the log. My heart officially broke when I saw her body.

Oh Tanya.... Why you? Part of me refuse to believe it but there was no denying it now.

There in the log was Tanya Keys. Her eyes were closed with blood dripping from her gash on her forehead. Her pinkish-red for was covered in scrapes and dirt. Probably from a fight. Yeah but I didn't realize that at least she fought to the end, huh Keys? Around her wrist and ankles her pup strings so were nearly invisible if not for the lights. A tree made out of a light yet durable material. Seeing how the other end of the strings were wrapped around the log, they must have been used to tie her down to log. On her tail, or what was left of the nub with dried crimson blood covering it. Were signs that someone attempted to paralyze her. Must have failed if they had to tied Tanya down to the ride. Her neck hung low as a something or someone snapped it. So despite seeing the body like this, one thing shattered my heart into pieces. Hanging loosely in her paw was the crystallized leaf necklace that I gave her just a few hours ago.

"Aww, looks like we lost the bounty hunter" Flakes sighed "Isn't it a skilled hunter job not to be hunted? Clearly she wasn't really that great after all"

I glared at Flakes. He is really starting to tick me off more than Mono-chan. That's saying something too, considering that Mono-chan operates this whole game!! I growled at him before looking back at Tanya. I took her hand into my own and kissed it. Farewell my dear friend.

I thought I be able to handle seeing her like this, but I just broke down into a sobbing mess. I can't run the trial in this state. I am far too emotional to think straight. Who would lead this trial if I could not?

Badgerclops watched me sob near Tanya's body. He never saw me this emotionally broken before. My sobs shook my body to it's core. Badgerclops tighten his fists and opened his eye in anger.

"Hey Flakes! This tral, Mao isn't leading" He growled when Flakes smiled

"Oh? Then who will lead it, Snowflake?" He ask in a creepy cheerful tone.

"I WILL" Badgerclops declared boldly.

As Mao Mao's best friend, I will handle this trial and bring Tanya's killer to justice!!

I promise that to you Mao! Time for Badgerclops to step up to the play!

Chapter Text

Probably wondering how things are doing outside the Killing Game right? Well the air is fresh, the water is clean and blood thirsty modified monsters roam around. Nothing could be better!! That is if you're the Mastermind that is. The beautiful Pure Heart Valley which was the home of the Sweetypies. Known for it's legendary possession, the Ruby Pure Heart. Now the Valley was reduced to ashes and ruins. The gigantic ruby shattered in millions of pieces as monsters roam the streets. They seeked out the few survivors for a decent meal. Shame there were but scraps left. The castle which was partly rubble now, was now the home base for the Resistance.

At the moment is where the members were discussing their lastest plan against the Mastermind. Quite a risky one too. There were a total of eight members of the Resistance, each sat around a slightly burned yet still usable wooden table to discuss their plan one last time.

At the head of the table was Yasu Mao, the Ultimate Sorceress. She was the leader of the Resistance and their strongest fighter so far. In her paws was a baby. Not hers but they were family. Guess counting the little one a bumps their numbers to nine. Besides her was the closest person to her since the whole hell began. Eugene Krabs the Ultimate Accountant as well as the sub leader of the Resistance. The other six members were found by the two and formed an alliance to stop the Mastermind.

"Scoops, are you positive that our informant is right about the next blackened? I can only use this spell once" Yasu turned her head to the Sweetypie donkey.

"Of course! I personally met up with them and can confirm the identity of the next blackened! As the Ultimate Information Gatherer, I Scoops only get the truth!" She smiled confidently. Holding the rim of her hat upright.

Scoops informant was trustworthy so far. Eugene nodded in agreement before turning to Yasu worryingly.

"Yasu...you sure about this? Using magic in your state alone in draining but this spell takes so much energy...." He was worried about her well being.

"I understand your concern, Gene. Though this plan needs that spell to stop the Mastermind. I will be greatly weaken afterwards but this need to be done" Placing a paw on his shoulder as a sign of reassurance.

"While "Golden Eyes" here is performing her spell or what not. Me and the poochie here will watch out for them, "Agents of "Despair" Ratarang looked to Bao Bao. "Right Boy?"

Bao Bao barked which the others took as a yes. Nuzzling the Cybernetic rat.

It was unclear how the two found one another. According to Ratarang, Bao Bao found him alive in the deadly wreakage of his Boss's former ship. Unfortunately Ramaraffe and Boss Hosstritch were not so lucky. He claimed that his boss and their newest recruit was still out there. He swore to find them. The two became close friends during their time together. Hope Mao Mao won't mind. That is if he is still out there.....

Bao Bao the Ultimate Best Hero Friend was now a scout for Resistance. Yasu was personally glad that a familiar face was on her side. Ratarang the Ultimate Tech Wizard who was saved by Yasu from a MonoHydra that attacked the rat and dog. Titles of villian and hero don't really matter in a state of crisis. Now all must come together to stop a common enemy: The Mastermind.

"Those Agents of Despair are really going too far! They let those monsters loose on kids trying to flee their destroyed village! Kids! KIDS!!" Yuki teared up "Those poisonous fangs prevent me from healing them" Never before did the Ultimate Healer feel so useless.

The only surviving member of the Wolf Family. Eugene brought her in after finding het during one of her patrols.

"Don't worry Kiddo. Once we stop the Mastermind, there will be no more deaths" Ratarang promised while Bao Bao nuzzled her for comfort.

"I know but it still hurts" The young white pup sighed.

"Yeah..." Reggie sighed. "We all lost so much already" Everyone went silent at the Ultimate Thief words

Since being separated then saved from one of the Agents of Despair, Reggie wised up and joined the resistance to make a difference. He lose his eye against them. One of the Agents of Despair. This whole ordeal changed him so much. Having to lose his best friend....then being attacked by one of the Mastermind's personal warriors.

"Please don't worry, Mister Reggie. We all lost alot yet we still have each other at least. I know we'll stop the Mastermind and help the remaining Survivors. I'm sure we aren't alone in this fight" Yuki encourages. Despite losing all her family to either the monsters or the agents, the young wolf clinged onto hope.

"Heh, you're right. If Rufus ever saw me like this then he never let me live it down. Thanks kid" He only met her a few weeks ago. Now she has really grown on him.

"Plus the informant said that our friends are still alive! We can still save them!" Yuki words allowed the smiles to return to their faces.

"Yeah at the cost of Muffet and Farmer Bun's lives" Pinky the Ultimate Annoyance spat out bitterly.

"Oh....Pinky, I'm sor-" Yuki attempted to apologize but Pinky refused to let her.

"Look it's good to be hopeful and all, but don't be too hopeful" He seemed really upset.

He's been like this since the informant told them how the two died. He's been much more annoying ever since then.

"Pinky...We save the remaining players. I promise" Yasu shared a sympathic look at Pinky. "Then we will honor the fallen. I give you my word"

He stared silently at his leader then sighed "Alright"

The meeting soon dispersed, leaving Yasu and Eugene alone in the room. Reggie and Yuki went to prepare tonight'smeal. Thankfully the castle food storage was full of fresh produce and meats. They would be able to get by for a few months, though daily supply runs were still done. Pinky was off making more escape routes. The monsters flooded the King's secret tunnels and pathways. However Pinky made his own which is how he and Scoops managed to survive. The tunnel system seemed to be the Resistance safest means of moving around the Valley. Pinky spent most of his time expanding the routes. Scoops spends most of her time gathering information about the Mastermind though came up with very little. This Mastermind character was quite the mystery. She also researched their areas of operations to set plans to stop them. Ratarang and Bao Bao were resting from the long day of patrolling earlier. Much to everyone's dismay....the two did not find any survivors this time. That only left the two leaders to themselves. Well that and the youngest and newest member they found yesterday.

"Yasu, do you really want to go through with this? Look....y-you just found your family. The youngest at that, are you really sure you want to do this?" Eugene trusted his friend dearly, yet he was deeply troubled by the spell too. "You hardly are at your full strength! D-don't you think it's more deadlier than before?!"

Yasu knew that Eugene was right....They had just found Lynelle yesterday. Lynelle the Ultimate Hope. Shiori daughter as well as the youngest Mao Clan member so far. Possibly the only remaining family she had left. She took a long breathe before speaking again. Holding the small kitten close to her heart.

"I have to, Eugene. For all our friends, the Resistance, fallen family members, Lynelle and you. To stop this hell...I MUST!" Yasu had made up her mind.

Eugene sighed. After getting to know her over these past nine months, he learned one thing. Once a Mao sets their mind on something then there is no stopping them.

Hopefully their would succeed....

What lies in store for our heroes?

~Stay tune~....NOT!!

Outside were two eavesdropers. Better know as two Agents. of Despair. Two of the seven of the Mastermind elite personal warriors. Both send to check on the Resistance.

"O-oh dear! Oh god...we're failing! Ugh!! Failure! Failure!" The first figure began to panic as they were terrified of the Resistance plan.

"Oh shut up!" The second figured slapped the first hard across their face. "All you do is cry and blah on and on! I should have paired with one of the others to spy on these clowns!"

"S-Sorry! Sorry! Though shouldn't we tell the boss?" The first asked, rubbing their now swollen red cheek.

"Nope! Hehe~ Remember what the MM said? "Deal with those troublesome pests the way you see fit! Treat it like a game". Besides if we tell all the secrets then it ruins things. I prefer to toy with them, don't you?" Figure two smirked

"Y-yeah" The first figure nodded, making them smirk a little. "Could we at least tell the others?"

"Course! I maybe an Agent of Despair, but I do believe in shared fun" The second one chuckled.

"D-do you think our teammate is okay on the inside? T-they could be in danger..." The figure fiddled their claws nervously.

"They're fine. After all, the MM has trained them personally themselves. You're forgetting that they are also my partner. They will surely survive" Figure Two smiled, getting out a red steel dagger. Tossing it in the air a few times for fun.

"Aren't you worried about the players finding out that we joined the Mastermind?" Those words annoyed the second figure greatly.

"Those so called "players" didn't save us. They did not open our eyes to the horrible lies that hope held over us our whole lives. While the ones we trusted lied to us to believe in hope! Those who swore to be there for us disappeared! Those who swore to be our friends became backstabbers!! Promises to never be left alone were broken and burned to ashes! The Mastermind was the only one to open our eyes to the truth and welcome us in the comfort of Despair" The second figure eyes glew a crimson red with crazed spirals too. "I could care less about those players. Especially "that one"!" They hissed as they hurl the dagger through a tree. Splitting it in half.

".....You're right" The first figure eyes glew the same crimson red with crazed spirals. "I will make them the FAILURES!! They will suffer the most agonzing despair! HeheHAHAHAWAHAHAHA!!!"

"That's the crazed spirit! Now let's tell the others. After all, we have some planning to do" The second figured seem quite pleased as the two walked away.

Before the a large Ice Dragon appeared. It was "Monofied", like all the monsters around. It's entire right side was completely black with dark mist like frost coming off of it. The dragon's right eye was scarred as well to match a certain Headmaster. On it's neck was a platinum steel collar with the word "Everfrost" It kneeled down before them like they were nobles.

"Looks like "She" sent us a ride home. Perhaps giving "Her" some pets was a good move after all" The first smiled before climbing onto Everfrost back.

"I rather she send us a more deadlier one" The second pouted before also getting on Everfrost back.

What? No Acid Spitter or Magma Shifter? Lame!!!

"Let's go. I want some hot chocolate before destroying the next village to ashes" The first became more confident than before. The slap from earlier may be the cause. "I need test subjects for my beta test" She snickered

"Ooooh~ You mean you're new mechs?! I gotta see that!! Please let me witness the bloody carnage!"The second once became intrigued and excited "Please oh pleeeeeeeeeeeease!!!"

"You had the last four villages, taking you would make it five. You would hog all the bloody fun for yourself before the mechs power up" The first rejected the request

"Cold!" The second seemed offended then laughed "Though true" The second agreed "Film it at least"

The first nodded. Then they patted Everfrost on it's neck before the dragon summoned it's six transparent ice plate wings. Taking flight to the sky. Shrouding the air in complete darkness.

"So do we stop the Resistance latest plan?" The first asked the question again, it still weight heavy on their mind.

"No. I want them to build up hope then demolish it with the full power of true DESPAIR!! Besides, I am curious to see if they pull off their plan, aren't you partner? The second smirked as they turned their partner.

"I would be lying if I wasn't, partner" The second nodded.

The two rode the rest of the trip in silence to their hide out. The old Mao Clan family. Ironic isn't it. The home of legendary heroes now home base for the Agents of Despair. As Everfrost flew in and landed, the two were welcomed by four pairs of crimson red eyes that illuminated in the darkness.

"Welcome Home~" Four voices greeted in perfect union.

Who are these Agents? What is the Resistance plan? All will be unveil in the Trial! Stay Tune for real this time!! HEHEHEHEHEHEHERAWR~

Chapter Text

Investigation:

Yo everybody, name's Badgerclops. My special talent happens to be around being the "Ultimate Creative Genius". However I wish my introduction was on more friendlier terms. Mao usually takes charge but....

The cat hero in question was not in the state this time with him having close ties with the victim.  Right now, he was sobbing as his face bare a heartbroken expression while kneel beside the body. If only tears could revive her as they did in movies.

To get Tanya justice and Mao Closure, I will lead this trial and find out who killed Tanya.

Soon the eerie silence was broken by the sound of the Monophone recieving the Monofile. Good. Maybe this would get some leads on where to look for clues. Reading the Monofile truly shocked me.

"What the...?!" My eye widen from reviewing the contents of the file. There has to be some kind of mistake!!

Monofile:
Victim: Ultimate??? Tanya Keys...Body...
Time of Death:9pm exact
Cause of Death: ???
Body Discovery Annoucement: 11pm Body Discovered by ???, Orangusnake, Badgerclops
No additional notes could be recorded due to electrical interference at the time of the murder.

What the ....

"Flakes why is the Monofile so vague compared to the first one?!" Orangusnake fumed, nearly crushing his reading glasses in the process.

"Think that I include all the answers in the file? Ahhh no. Your job is to figure out how Tanya Keys died, where it happened, and most of all~ Who is the blackened!  Otherwise you all DIE!!" Flakes explaination meant that more trials would provide fewer answers.

Guess only clues will help this trial. Mao Mao was still sobbing in a broken state near the body. His neon green eyes looked so dull, like the light within them got extinguished. I couldn't begin to imagine the pain he is feeling right now. Tanya may have tried to take me to jail for my past with the "Thicken Thieves", but deep down I think she really came to see Mao Mao again. They only recently became friends again. Now this? Like a poisonous dagger to his heroic heart.

I had to be strong for him. Time to investigate. We decidef to split into groups to cover more ground. Since the "Logoaster Flutide" goes to all the attractions, it's possible the murder happened in each attraction. The strings that tied Tanya to the log were most likely from the "Performer Doll House". I remember seeing a small room that contained wooden parts and gears. Tools were there too. I notice that there was also a giant spool of string too. Quite odd since the living puppets don't require it. Most likely for the other puppets thst performed during Ruby's shows.

Each group was divide into three since Mao Mao and Dr.Cuddlestein remained with the body. Dr. Cuddlestein could do a better examination of Tanya's body and get more clues from the autopsy. Plus as much as I want to hug Mao Mao right now, I trust  Cuddlestein to watch over him till this whole trial mess was over.

That left the remaining eleven of us to investigate MonoPlaza. Penny, Benny, and Rufus searched "Monogames and Chanellenges" since some of the prizes could be used to knock Tanya out  like sleeping powder or knock out gas. Why they were prizes made no sense what so ever. Though it would certainly give the killer an edge up against Tanya. Night, Orangusnake, and Snugglemagne went to check the "Hurricane Swings". Night mentioned the snapped neck could be from being thrown from the ride or something similar. Orangusnake could climb up and check the chains for any tampering or see any clues from above. Night behavior seemed off, wonder why? Cyber, Ol'Blue, and myself went to investigate the "Logoaster Flutide" More since it was the body main transport. Kevin and Sorrow went to search the "Performer's Doll House". At first Kevin was scared but Flakes said he keep an eye on the young ones. Sorrow practically dragged Kevin there, after all Sorrow and Tanya had become close too. This must be impacting them hard. Besides Flakes may be a twisted dark soulless puppet but the game is for us to murder each other. Not him or Monochan to kill us other than the execution. Monochan stated that very clearly. I doubt Flakes would break that rule either.

"Poor Tanya...." Cyber sniffled. His goggles were all clouded from all his crying.

"Yes, it is tragic about what happened to Miss Keys. Though we must continue our investigation" Ol' Blue insisted

"Ol'Blue is right Cy. As hard as it is for us, we all know that Tanya would want us to be strong to find out who killed her" I placed my robo arm on Cyber's shoulder to comfort him.

"I know, but why did this happen again? First Farmer Bun and Muffet....Now Tanya? We all promised that the first trial would be the last! Now we have to do the trial again to only lose yet another friend...." Cyber had a point.

Why did another murder happen? Could it be relatef to the latest motive? Secrets can be dark but not enough to kill right? I mean with the exception of a few players here. There is no one else with a dark enough reason to kill. The only ones I can really think of who would are Myself, Mao Mao, Orangusnake, Night, Rufus, Tanya, possibly Cyber too. Hate to include him though. At least that narrows down the  list of potental suspects.

Another thing that been bothering me is how we found Tanya body in the first place. Covered in scrapes and dirt could only mean that Tanya fought her attacker. Could be how she got that gash too. Probably got hit in the head by something hard. The killer had to be pretty strong or use a powerful force to do that. Why did the killer do all of this if they snapped her neck. Why  bother doing all this overkill to the body. Was it to show off or to throw us off the true cause of murder?

Like the other injuries are there just to disguise the true cause of death. If that were the cause then why? This was for sure troubling....

We followed the water and I came upon something strange. There just as I was ready to step on it. There was a torned shread of one of Tanya's special leaves. The very leaves that Tanya practically used for everything. Traps, storage, disguises, and even attacking. Mao Mao even fought  copies of her that Tanya made from these very leaves. Tanukis are well known for using unique leaves to aid them in their lives.

Though a piece of the leaf itself had a strange reading when my arm analyzed it. Either it was glowing from being torn, or it was still being used somehow.

Yet Tanya is dead. How were these things still glowing? From what I can remember: Tanua leaves never glew before. Then again...I hardly knew anything about her. Maybe the leaves glowed for a special purpose. Welp, it's now evidence.

"Darn!! Where is it?!" Cyber looked around frantically as he started to get angry

"Cy? What are you looking for exactly?" I know we were looking for clues but what was "it"?

"Tanya's Tail! It was torned off! Why the heck would anyone do that?!" Cyber then resumed his search.
The missing tail was another unsolved question. What reason could anyone have to rip out het tail? Where could it be now? If the killer had it and hid it, then blood or strands of pinkish red fur would be on them. Easier to find the killer if that were the case.

The current of the "Logoastee Flutife" probably dragged the tail somewhere to one of the other attractions. The water could have washed away the blood from murder to when the body was discovered. Considering how I was the first to find the body, it surprised me that thete wasn't a faint trace of blood in the water.

"Badgerclops, If you don't mind me asking. Why were you out past the night time curfew? Mono-chan stated that anyone who broke the rules would be punished just as Rufus was.  What were you doing here in the first plave?" Ol'Blue voice made me face him. His last question was one that I hoped I wouldbe able to avoid.

The reason I was out.....I can't say since it was selfish. The only thing I can do right now is lie.

"I got hungry. Wanna more of that Black Licorice Cotton Candy" I chuckled

"Badgerclops that was dangerous" Ol'Blue keep a monotone in his face and voice as he scolded me.

"I know...sorry y'all" The guilt I felt made me uneasy. Though them learning the true reason would make them far more angry.

Thankifully Cy and Ol'Blue seemed to believe my lie.

No more clues could be found. There was only a couple of minutes left before thebtrial would begin. Hopefully the others had better luck.

We went back to the others who returned to Tanya's body. Mao Mao remainec unmoved from her body. His spirit looked completely shattered. Orangusnake had to lift him up, he practically had to carry Mao Mao away to join the rest of the group.

"Geez...he's really out of it. Normally he threaten to run me over with his aerocycle for even touching him. He may be my arch enemy but it's painful to see him in this state" Orangusnake had to keep a firm grip on the cat hero shoulders so he wouldn't slump to the floor.

"He was quite close to Miss Keys. If memory recalls correctly, she was his previous partner before Deputy Badgerclops correct?" Snugglemagne turned to me for my answer

"Yeah, she was Mao's partner as a hero before becoming a bounty hunter. She was probably his girlfriend at some point too. I haven't asked Mao Mao if my thoughts are right, but I'm sure after seeing their behavior towards each other" So not only did Mao lose a dear friend but also his ex girlfriend.

"The best we can do for both Tanya and Mao Mao is go through with the trial and find whose responsible. For now, we should go over the clues we have discovered ans see how they lead to Tanya's death. Then we can find out who is truly the culprit. Remember if we chose the wrong person, not only will they go free but we all die instead" Night took charge before I could speak.

"Well i-it isn't hard to figure t-this one out" Benny stuttered a bit "N-night is the likely suspect"

All are eyes widen at what Benny just said. More surprisef that he even spoke up at all. Heck, Penny look the most shock out of all of us, Benny being the silent one of the couple who pointed out the most likely suspect is quite the shocker. Yet he wasn't wrong either. Fighting her in Pure Heart Valley, I saw how creative she was when dealing with those in her way. Her and Orangusnake talking earlier did arouse some suspicion too.

"How dare you peasants accuse her?!" Snugglemagne looked at us with turquoise orbs of anger. "Her Ultimate may be the "Ultimate Villianess" does NOT mean that she killed!"

Orangusnake and Kevin were standing right beside Night. They believed in her innocence too.

"Noches may be evil, but she never let those she care about die! She always puts the needs of others before herself! Why would she kill if it means she loses Snugglemagne, Kevin, and me?!" Orangusnake put a hand on Night's shoulder

"Big sis Night is not the culpwit!" Even Kevin got in fromt of Night. In a protective way as a knight was shielding a damsel in distress from a monster.

In his eyes, we were the monsters.

However Night looked down silently as if she looked guilty of something. Whether she was the cuprit or not, Nighr clearly had something to hide. I squinted a bit to get a better look at Night. I had to hold in a gasp. Night had small tear droplets in her eyes which she fought not to let fall.

"Let's go over the clues we found, if any do indicate me then I am the culprit. However our main goal should be figuring out how it happened. All of us nearly made this mistake on the first trial. If not for Mao Mao then none  of us would be here right now" Night became her usual self again. Like she wasn't trying a few seconds ago.

That's the "Ultimate Villianess" for you, able to put  on a strong front to mask her true emotions. Putting the situation and safety of  others above her own life. Look like Orangusnake was right about something. Night puts others before herself.

"I agree with Night. We should go over the clues that we all found. We really don't have a ton of time either. Flakes can start  the the trial anytime. Best thing we can do is go over what we found" I need to get as much information as I can.

Evidence will be are only aid in finding out how murder happened. I'll have to do what Mao Mao did last trial. Hear everyone's input while defending my logic with evidence. Furthermore, using all the information to see how the murdee played out. With luck and a few witness reports....find the killer.

I can only hope that I can lead this trial right, after all if I chose wrong we all die and the murder goes scott free. Was this the pressure Mao Mao felt during the trial?  If it is , I don't like it! Worse than crushing self doubt! Way WaY WORSE!!!

Sorrow and Kevin went first. Sorrow did confirm my suspicions when they said that the large spool of puppet wire was missing. Meaning the killer used that to tie Tanya to the log. That solves one mystery. Kevin then mention finding torned pieces of cloth. He brought the two blood stained ones in for evidence. One was green. The other was too stained to tell.

Though it did narrow the list more. Since Night, Orangusnake, Rufus, and Benny all had tears in their clothes. Though till I had more concrete proof it was a baseless claim that any of them were involved so far.

"That's all we....found....sorry" Sorrow seemed more sad than monotone.

Losing the person that got the closest to them....Sorrow was a kid too. Not fair and insanely cruel to their heart dude.

"It's okay. What you two found has been extremely helpful.  Don't be so hard on yourselves. You two did your very best! Your efforts will surely aid this trial" I kneel down to their level and gave them the best smile I could.

Have a strong feeling that this evidence will come in handy. Plus they needed some reassurance in a situation like this. Again, they were just kids.

Next was Orangusnake's group. They seemed pale as a ghost from their findings. Night looked sick which was rare. Bad feeling forming.

"We found sights of a struggle and there was also some blood on the back of one of the seats. According to the controls of "Hurricane Swings" the ride itself was set to "Hurricane". Tanya must have been there since we found her leaves scattered about. The killer must have locked her into the seat. There was one seat that had it's seat belt destroyed. Traces of broken puppet wires. Probably how they got to stay in place. Considering the insane ride speed, the strings would have snapped  within mere seconds. Being flung from that ride at that speed is enough to snap someone's neck..." Orangusnake voice trailed off, remembering the state of Tanya's body.

"My main question is how Tanya and the killer got passed Jade? Let alone who destroyed those puppets? Tanya or the killer?" Night spoke up while still looking as if she seen a ghost.

The destruction of the puppets did seem connected to this case. Jade, Ruby, and Acro would have alerted Flakes if they spotted anyone in the plaza at night time. Other than Jolt who was still missing. The other three were too loyal to Flakes. Too useful for him to simple destroy. Leaving that the killer or Tanya was the one to destroy the puppets.

"We also wonder why they were here in the plaza to begin with?" Snugglemagne question was quickly answered

"I can't speak for Tanya, but it's clear that the killer didn't want any witnesses. One of the main reasons of how we caught Muffet is thanks to Orangusnake eye witness account. The killer wouldn't want the same mistake to happen to them. Thus why they chose the plaza as we all lay asleep in our dorms" Night explained.

"Another question is why Tanya was here in the first place" Snugglemagne had a point.

Could she have been lured? The motive shouldn't have effected her since hers and Mao Mao secret was exposed already. That meant that the killer used another method to get her to come to the plaza. Wonder if she found the secret entrance like me and Orangusnake.

I'll hold on to that information till it comes up in the trial, or revealed to be relevant in the murder. Orangusnake only found out because he secretly followed me. Could the killer have used it and left it openef? That explains how I found it so easily.

"Lured probably. Considering how crafty that Monoster is, wouldn't surprise me if she had more than one secret on all of us. The killer must have left some sort of note asking to meet them at the plaza" Rufus spoke up. His reason did sound like a strong possibility.

He's suddenly being helpfuk. Did he do a complete 380 and decide to actual help. Not saying that he didn't help last trial. It still angers me how he just accused both Cyber and Kevin. Both may have seemed guilty but he accused both without a solid reason. Cyber was blamed due to an arguement with Farmer Bun, Kevin was blamed for simply being at the scene. Yet now he was providing logical scenerios?

Why the sudden change? Could it be related to what his group found in "Monogames and Chanellenges"? That was the only reason I could think of. He was smart for a con man.

"What did your group find?" Cyber asked. He still seemed uncomfortable talking to him since last trial.

"I'll let the "Perfect Couple" tell you. After all, they did do most of the searching. My injury was acting up so I wasn't much help" His nerves were badily damaged. That pain must make doung things impossibly hard now.

Though he still could have looked for clues with his eyes. Maybe he just wanted to sit out of investigating, using his injury as an excuse. I have tried that before I builded my robo arm. Ah~ Four months without chores. Something fishy going on.

"Penny, what did you and Benny find?" Turning my attention to the two dog sweetypies.

"We found two prizes were missing from the games. The Knock out pelts which are the second prize of the Balloon Pop game. They aren't very strong from what the instructions say, they only one  keep the target knocked out for a half hour tops" Penny explained. Submitting the instructions as evidence.

That would keep Tanya from fighting back without a doubt. The killer could've used them up which is why there whould be no trace of them left. According to the instructions, there were four pelts. It's safe to assume that the killer used all of them. Using one pelt would knock the target out for a half an hour. With that logic, four of the pelts together be strong enough to keep the target knocked out for at least two hours.

So then the murder took place between 7pm to 9pm. Therocially speaking at least.

"What about the second prize taken?" Ol'Blue writing down all this new information down in the notebook

Something tells me that he was an A+ student in skool as a kid. Well he is the very few sweetypies that has an actual job. How most of them are still surviving fiancially still puzzle me to this dat. Does Snugglemagne just randomly give them money? Actually that one doesn't surprise me.

I should focus on this case now. Gotta keep all outside thoughts away!

"Well it was a titanium baseball bat that secretly conceal a highly toxic poison in a surgical needle. T-though we  we found the bat hidden in Acro tent. It....It....It..." Benny stuttered, looking ready to throw up.

"It what?" Kevin asked

Penny calmly took Benny hand to comfort him before embracing into a tight hug. After a few deep breathes as well as well as some soothing words from Penny, Benny seemed ready to finish what he was struggling to finish.

"I-It was covered in blood....the killer must have used it  to hurt Tanya....we didn't find the poison though" That isn't good.

Someone hiding a deadly poison on them is even worse! Should we have everyone searched?

Poison wasn't mentioned in the Monofile. Either the killer still had it on them or ditched it somewhere.

Then to everyone's surprise, Kevin pulled out the broken pieces of glass from what appeared to be from the needle. The glass  shards had some strange green liquid. Which we all soon realize what it was.

Kevin found the poison?!

"Kevin! Where did you find this? You should have told someone older! Did any of that green liquid touch you?! Tell me right now!" Night immediately put the shards in a bag before going full mother hen mode on Kevin.

"Ahhhh!! Sowwy!! I found it in the water" Kevin shivers at Night for the sudden rush of questions. "All I did was put the pieces in my pockets"

That means the needle was at the "Performer's Doll House". Sorrow must have not seen Kevin put it in his pockets.

"Come on! You have to wash your hands right now!!" Night picks up Kevin before taking him to the nearest sink.

"Moonflower, you know about that poison?" Night only respond was a nodd to Snugglemagne question.

"I made it a habit to know many poisons and other toxins. If that poison remains in contact with the skin for an hour or ingested, the person will die" No wonder why she was panicking over Kevin right now.

That is serious

"Oh my heavens! Kevin please do inform one of us next time please. Otherwise we could have had two murder trials on our hands. Moonflower please wash your hands too" Snugglemagne was concerned for both now.

"Of course! I will as soon as Kevin finish washing his" She reassures her worrywart of a husband. "Though the small amount will cause just skin damage if not treated quickly"

Hm, that seems useful. I better remember that.

"Thank goodness" He seemed relieved to hear that were the rest of us.

"So Badgerclops what did our group find. I would appreciate a recap please" Ol'Blue turned to me with his notebook in hand. Does he have that on constant standby or something?

"Well we really didn't find much to be honest, y'all. It's more of what we didn't find that is much more intetesting. We all search our areas bur did any of us find Tanya's tail?" I asked the group.

They either shook their heads no in respond or just said "No".

Strange. Even with the current of the log ride, that tail had to end up at least somewhere. Where could it be?

"Anything else?" Dr.Cuddlestein asked. She been quiet for some time now.

"Well we found a torn piece of Tanya's leaf but for some reason it's still glowing" I then noticed Mao Mao ears perk up upon hearing that.

He seemed like he knew what that mean. He still kept silent. The trial is likely when he'll tell us, or make him tell us.

Mao...What are you not telling us? What aren't you telling me?

"How are her leaves still working? No offense to the dead but shouldn't they be plain leaves now?" Cyber shared the same thoughts I did earlier.

Can the tanuki leaves still function without their master? Ughhh!!! The one time I could use one of Mao's long boring explaination on heroes and he is in no shape to give it.

No one seems to know either. Great...

"Dr. Cuddlestein...what...about the...autopsy...?" Sorrow faced the teal squirrel doctor.

"Nothing  aside from what the monofile told us. Though I will say that her body didn't seem real to me. Despite being before my eyes. Perhaps I need a stronger prescription for my glasses. Once again, I was too late to save a patient's life" She sighed. Given her professsion...Seeing two dead bodies and Muffin death is probably hard for her.

"So no evidence really pins this on Noches, huh? Told ya jerks that she was innocent" Orangusnake seemed relieved about that.

"Orangusnake..." Night appeared geniunely touched by how he was defending her.

Orangusnake may be a villian but deep down is a caring guy for those who he cares about. Don't really know how the two became friends or how deep their friendship is. Though it's clear that it is deep if he respects her that much. They were on team villian so it makes sense that they are allies in arms.

Night is still are prime suspect. Only she knew the poison plus onlt she who could've have destroyed those p-puppets. Not to mention her and Tanya fought yesterday and earlier today about something. M-Mostlikely the motive" Benny still wasn't convinced.

"Nighr, what were you and Tanya fighting about?" I asked

Night gave me a glare that basically said "That is not your businesss"

Well excuse me for trying to be nice. Ugh!! Why is she being so stubborn!! Why won't she tell us why?! What were fighting about?!

Does it relate to the murder somehow? What role does Night have in all this? A minor one? A major one? Still no idea.

"Night?"

"Moonflower...."

"Big Sis?"

Kevin, Orangusnake, and especially Snugglemagne were also concerned were also concerned why Night decided to go silent.

Before we could question her more, that eerie circus music started to play again. Sent shivers down my spine. Out of who knows where, Flakes appeared. He was humming some sort of song along with the music. For some reason, I swear that I know this song. Not sure how but I do.

"Welp investigating time is over~ Hope the clues you found help ya in the trial. Otherwise your strings of life will be snipped by the razor sharp scissors of death. Like my former friends. No really that I care about them. Easy to replace those wooden animals! Though whoever wreck them owes Flakes a huge cash settlement, caiche?!! I swear Mono-chan made this sound funnier than it would be" Flakes really was like Mono-chan underneath that friendly mask he wore earlier.

Though the minute he mentioned Mono-chan is when I felt pain in my heart. Flakes may truly be a monster  like Mono-chan, though there is one clear difference. Flakes is a monster that wears a mask that makes him appear to be a geniunely friendly puppet. While Mono-chan is a virus like enity that takes control of Bobo-chan whenever it feels like it. Ironically the stringless puppet has more freedom than the one who never had any from the start.

Then with a mere whistle from Flakes. The room goes pitch black. Just how it did for the first trial.

Here we go. Hope that this will be the final trial.