Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

You follow Kaede into the gym. The feeling of the shot put ball you took from her remains on your fingers - what would have happened, if she had gone through with it?

But what could have happened doesn't matter anymore. Now that the 10 pm deadline has passed, all that's left is to see what will happen.

The two of you join the other fourteen students in lining up, just like when you first arrived. The five Exisals tower overhead, herding everyone into place. Behind them stands the tiny form of Monokuma.

"Students of the Ultimate Academy!" Monokuma announces. "I'm sure you understand why I've called you all together. All sixteen of you... well, that's the problem, isn't it?"

Monokuma makes a sweeping motion with his paw, indicating the gathered students. "I gave you 48 hours to pick someone and murder them. I even promised to skip the class trial! But, unless I'm mistaken... wait, am I mistaken? Let's see. One, two, twelve... that is definitely sixteen of you, all still alive! Unacceptable!"

Monokid's voice bellows out from the blue Exisal. "Then let's do something about it! Who should we flatten first?"

"Start with the males!" Tenko shouts. "We didn't do anything to deserve this!"

"Hey, screw you!" Kaito shoots back. "We're all in this together!"

"Ugh," Monophanie groans from the pink Exisal. "I can't stand violence..."

Monokuma's laugh cuts through the commotion. "Don't worry, my lovely little cubs. I don't think any of you will need to get your paws dirty yourselves. Not when I have so many exciting punishments prepared!"

Your eyes dart around the room. To your left, Kaede grips your hand. Is this the end?

"Wait!" Keebo calls out. "It can't end like this!"

"Damn right!" Miu agrees. "I'm way too fuckin' important to die here!"

Monokuma looks up at them. "I assure you, it most certainly can. Now, as I was saying..."

"We were supposed to do more than this!" Keebo protests. "Weren't we?"

"Of course you were!" Monokuma agrees. "You were supposed to kill each other! But alas, that chance has passed. Do you think I'm going to go back on my word?"

Keebo's eyes drop. "I do not know why you would. I do not know why you are doing any of this. But... a voice inside me says there must be another outcome! One where we can reach our true potential!"

"Puhuhu..." Monokuma laughs. "And you think that little voice should get everything it wants, huh? Maybe your inner voice should have told you to kill someone!"

"I... think I see what Keebo is saying..." Tsumugi remarks. "Wouldn't it be a waste for it to end like this, after you gathered us all?"

"Seriously?" Monokuma asks. "You all really think you can just talk me out of this, huh?"

Monosuke's voice erupts from the yellow Exisal. "Don't worry about them, pops! Let's just get on with it!"

"Shut up!" Monokuma snaps. "I want to hear them answer. Is that what you all think?"

Kaede finally speaks up. "Yes, it is! There's no way what you really want is to just kill us like this!"

"Um... Gonta not following," Gonta admits. "But... Gonta not want to die."

"Dying would be such a pain..." Himiko agrees.

Monokuma crosses his paws. "Well, you know what? My answer is... ugh. Fine, you got me, okay! This was supposed to be more interesting. I wouldn't normally do this, but since you're all so set on it, I guess I'll be lenient just this once. Call it a birthday present. It's probably one of your birthdays right now, right?"

You steel yourself, then speak. "Does... this mean we can go?"

Monokuma mutters something under his breath.

"Uh... Father?" Monotaro asks. "What was that?"

"I said they can go!" Monokuma snaps. "But don't think this is over. You're still all trapped in the Ultimate Academy, and I will be finding ways to keep things interesting around here. But for tonight, you get to live. Now get outta here!"

You let out a long breath and turn to Kaede. She flushes and releases your hand.

"We made it," you say. "All of us."

Kaede nods. "I just hope we'll stay safe. The mastermind is still out there."

"The mastermind, huh." Rantaro approaches the two of you, then drops his voice to a whisper. "Was it you two who set up those cameras in the library?"

Kaede swallows. According to the photos, Rantaro had almost been caught in her trap, and you're still not sure why. "Yeah. We... thought it was suspicious."

"So did I," Rantaro agrees. "The bookshelf, right?"

You nod. "I noticed it a couple of days ago. We figured it was our best clue, but..."

Rantaro frowns. "Yeah. Then once I saw the cameras, I decided to watch for who would come get them. I guess this is all we have to show for all that."

His story sounds plausible. Whether he's telling the truth or not, he's someone to keep in mind.

The three of you join the others in exiting the gym. People have started to gather, just far enough to be out of sight of the Exisals.

"You see?" Angie says. "It was the will of Atua that this would all turn out okay."

Ryoma frowns. "I'd say we just got lucky. We aren't safe yet."

"Kehehe... what a fascinating predicament," Korekiyo adds. "I wonder what trials we will face next!"

"This isn't funny, you degenerate!" Tenko shouts. "We're all still being held prisoner!"

"Please, settle down," Kirumi urges. "It's late. You should all be getting to bed."

"Getting rest isn't a bad idea," Maki adds. "Who knows what trouble they'll cause next?"

The group begins to disperse. Before you and Kaede can exit, one person slinks up to the two of you.

"Heeey, Shuichi!" Kokichi looks up at you with a wide grin. "What a surprise that was, huh?"

"That Monokuma didn't kill us all?" You try to figure out where he's going with this, but draw a blank.

"Oh! Yeah, totally!" he exclaims unconvincingly. "Anyway, we'd better do as Miss Maid said. Sleep well!"

With that, he darts away.

"What was that about?" Kaede asks.

"I think he's just messing with us." Maybe saying it will help you believe it. "I hope he's just messing with us."

"Yeah..." Kaede agrees. "Well, he's right about getting rest."

The two of you return to your rooms, and you do your best to fall asleep.

The next morning, you meet back up with Kaede, then join several of the others for breakfast. The mood feels livelier than the past two days, but still on edge.

"We're not out of the woods yet," Rantaro insists between bites. "If they couldn't get us to kill yet, they'll try another way."

Kaito laughs. "They already threatened to kill us all! Whatever they try, it's not going to work."

"As if we can trust that!" Tenko snaps. "If they offered the killer their choice of sex slaves, I bet every male here would be plotting murder in minutes!"

"Gonta would never!" Gonta protests. "Gentlemen would not do such a thing!"

Tenko scowls at him. "Men always say things like that to get women to let their guard down! That just makes you even more suspicious!"

"Tenko," you begin, "is there anything men can do that you wouldn't look down on?"

"Of course not!" Tenko declares. "It's rooted in your bodies! As long as you have those... parts... Oh! Right! That's what you can do!"

You gulp. "Wh... what's what we can do?"

"Get a sex change!" Tenko exclaims. "Then you won't be a man anymore and women won't have to worry about you!"

"What? No!" you shout. "I'm not interested in becoming a woman!"

Tenko's usual sour expression returns. "That means you must want to use those parts to assault women. So I was right not to trust you! Ugh!"

With that, she picks up her food and storms off. No one follows.

Kaede is the first to speak. "Kaito is probably right. I can't imagine what they would do to convince anyone to kill now. But... I'm still worried. We still don't know who the mastermind is or what they're up to."

"The mastermind, huh? Man, I've been wondering that too. What do you think, Tsumugi?"

You all turn at the sound of Kokichi's voice to find him following Tsumugi to your table. The two of them find spots and set their food down.

"Finding the mastermind..." Tsumugi sighs. "I don't have any ideas. My mind's just plain blank."

"Look, it'll all be fine," Kaito assures the group. "We'll figure something out."

"Or maybe we won't even need to!" Kokichi exclaims. "It could all be one big joke!"

Gonta gives him a worried look. "You think so? Gonta not sure..."

Kokichi grins. "Yeah, I bet they just wanted to mess with us. We should just have fun with things!"

"What do you mean?" you ask.

"Well, we've all got talents, right?" He glances around the table, his gaze lingering on you. "I mean, yours won't be much use if no murders happen. But most of us have skills that can be way more fun!"

"Wait, are you including yourself?" Kaito asks.

"Being the supreme leader of an evil organization is always important," Kokichi assures him. "What about the rest of you?"

"Now that my lab is open, I could put on piano performances," Kaede offers.

"Yeah, like that!" Kokichi says. "Tsumugi, what about you?"

"I don't have access to a lab right now," Tsumugi admits. "But maybe if it opens, I can make cosplays for people?"

"Gonta still not sure what that means," Gonta says.

"It means dressing up like characters from a story!" Tsumugi's face lights up as she explains. "You'd do well as one of the big tough guys, like Tarzan, or..."

"Gonta is gentleman!" Gonta protests. "Size not important!"

"The character doesn't have to actually be like you," Tsumugi elaborates. "They just have to be something you can pull off! Like, Shuichi has the looks for a bunch of androgynous characters. I bet he could even do well at crossplay!"

Halfway through a sip of your drink, you fight to neither spit it back out nor choke on it, and somehow succeed. Kaito bursts out laughing.

"There's nothing strange about that!" Tsumugi insists. "My first time dressing up was crossplay!"

"It wasn't about that," you explain. "It's just, hearing it so soon after... never mind."

"Oh?" Kokichi asks. "Does this relate to any unpleasant women who were leaving just as we arrived?"

You put your face in your hands. "Forget I said anything."

The rest of the meal passes without incident. The group disperses, and you and Kaede wander off in search of the people you'd missed.

Back in the dorms, you spot Angie leading a lethargic Himiko away from her room. Korekiyo watches with what might be an amused expression.

"Are you heading to breakfast?" you ask.

"I ate earlier!" Angie announces. "But Himiko has not. Atua wishes for us all to be well fed!"

"Nyeeeh..." Himiko groans. "This is no time to be awake..."

Angie tugs on her hand. "You can sleep later. Come!"

The two of them make their slow departure. Korekiyo steps forward to meet you.

"I, too, have already eaten," he says. "I suppose the two of you seek to check on everyone?"

Kaede nods. "We saw a few people during breakfast. With how... weird yesterday was, we wanted to make sure everyone was okay."

"A sensible choice," Kiyo replies. "I spotted Maki earlier, but she appears to be seeking solitude. I have seen no sign of those bears or their war machines."

"That's good to know," Kaede says. "Thanks, Kiyo."

A smile shows in Kiyo's eyes. "Of course. The friendship you have shown throughout our time here has been marvelous. I hope someday my sister can share in it as well."

Kaede's face lights up the most you've seen since last night. "Oh! I'd love to meet her, once we get out of here. But... I can't take all the credit, you know. I wouldn't have managed all this without Shuichi!"

"Shuichi, you say..." Kiyo's eyes turn to you. "You, too, have shown strong resolve. I could see you being a good friend for my sister, if only you were a girl as well."

You exchange a look with Kaede as she visibly stifles a laugh.

"How does this keep happening?" you get out.

"Is something the matter?" Kiyo asks.

"This is the third time this morning," you explain. "First Tenko, then Tsumugi, now you. People keep wanting me to be a girl."

"Fascinating," Kiyo remarks. "Perhaps it is mere coincidence, or perhaps something more. It is not unheard of for a female soul to reside within a male body..."

"Um, thanks," you say. "I... think I'd rather stop talking about this."

Kiyo nods. "Very well. In that case, I will leave you to your search."

He departs, and the two of you return to wandering. One of the missing students has an obvious place to be.

You hear her voice before you reach the Ultimate Inventor Lab. "You're always lookin' to help people out, huh? How much of that happens under the sheets?"

"That is not the nature of my services," Kirumi replies.

"Does that just mean no one has asked yet?" Miu continues. "You said you'll fulfill any request, so if my request was to tongue-wash my-"

"No need for any of that," Ryoma interrupts. "Kirumi, I'd like to request that you accompany me to the dining hall."

You and Kaede arrive as Kirumi responds. "Very well. We will take our leave, then."

The two of you stand out of the way while Ryoma and Kirumi make their escape, then look around the impressively stocked room. Keebo stands near Miu, wearing a nervous expression.

"Fuckin' unbelievable!" Miu snarls. "Like we weren't all wondering about it!"

"I... can't say it crossed my mind," you reply.

Miu glares at you. "Like hell it didn't! I know how pervy guys like you are!"

"Uh, Miu," Kaede begins, "weren't you the one who brought it up?"

"So what?" she asks. "I said we were all thinking it. Weren't you listening?"

"So you're not telling me to be a girl," you confirm.

Miu blinks. "Huh? That's fuckin' stupid. Why would I say that?"

"People are saying it a lot today," you explain. "I'm not sure why."

"Shuichi, you are already very attractive as you are!" Keebo assures you. "That said, now that you mention it... something tells me that you would also be very attractive as a girl!"

You take in a breath, then let it out. "Thanks, Keebo. Is that the inner voice you mentioned last night?"

"Yes!" Keebo says. "It guides me when I feel lost, and it has always supported me!"

"It did help save us," Kaede remarks. "At least, I think it did."

"That's true," you admit. "Still, I'm not interested in becoming a girl."

The lull in activity lasts throughout the day. In time, night falls, and you return to bed.

Late that night, you awake to a noise. At least, you think you do. You're not entirely sure you aren't still dreaming.

Your eyes fall on the tiny figure in your room. One of the bears - the most visibly robotic one, the one who was a yellowish green in better light. Monodam.

Monodam walks closer to you, holding something that looks like a flashlight. Before you can react, light fills your vision, and you slip into a memory.

You're back to around when you started middle school. Your classmates' bodies had started changing - first the girls, then you and the other boys. Most of them were excited by the changes, but to you, they felt... wrong.

You didn't know anyone you could talk to about the feelings you were having, so you did research online. About boys who... didn't want to become men, and instead wanted to grow up to be women. Most of the comments you found were people mocking the idea, but there were a few who understood.

Your parents were... displeased, when they learned what you had been reading. They told you to put it out of your mind and to never speak of it again. You tried, as hard as you could. It didn't work. The thoughts kept gnawing at you, the wrongness of the life you were trying to live, until it felt like they would tear you open.

You wake up that morning to your heart racing. Was that all a dream? No, you're certain it was a memory. The feeling of wrongness clings to you, from the shape of your face and body to the sound of your voice to how the others think and talk about you.

How did you forget something so important?

Chapter Text

You get up and dress yourself, trying to ignore the discomfort that now plagues the process. Maybe you can just... push the thoughts back down. But you already tried to look away from the truth of your feelings, and now you feel worse than ever.

And you did that because your parents told you to. But they aren't here. None of your family is.

You... should talk to someone about this. Someone you can trust to not judge you for it, and to keep it in confidence, and... it's going to have to be Kaede, isn't it. This could get complicated.

You emerge from your room in a daze. A familiar voice calls out to you. "Shuichi!"

You lift your head to see past the brim of your hat. "Ah. Morning, Kaede."

Kaede's expression turns worried at the sight of your face. "Um, is... something the matter?"

"No!" you protest. "Or... well, yes. But..."

"Something you don't want to talk about?" she asks.

You shut your eyes, then open them. "I'll explain after breakfast. I... can't figure out how on an empty stomach."

Kaede nods, and the two of you walk to the dining hall. The place where all this started - that must have been what jogged your memory, right? Maybe they were picking up on something about you, like Kiyo suggested.

Inside, you find Kaito with an inscrutable-as-ever Maki. You do your best to keep your swirling thoughts from your face.

"Hey, guys!" Kaito calls out, then settles his eyes on you. "You look rough. Didn't sleep well?"

"Yeah," you lie. "I think this all finally caught up to me."

Kaito frowns. "That's no good. You should join my next training session! Exercise is great at helping you sleep!"

That sounds... exactly like how two guys would bond. "I'll, uh, consider it."

Maki's eyes glance at Kaito, then back to you. "He sure is a handful, isn't he?"

"Hey!" Kaito protests. "You don't need to talk about me like I'm not here!"

"Um, anyway," Kaede says, "we should find something to-"

"RISE AND SHINE, URSINE!"

Five tiny shapes burst into the room. Some of them hold pamphlets that look absurdly large in comparison.

"Yo!" Monosuke shouts. "Youse all didn't forget about us, right?"

"We're opening up more of the school!" Monokid announces. "We had to adjust since you fuckers screwed up the original plan, but now it's all rock solid!"

"MAKE-SURE-TO-READ-THE-BROCHURES," Monodam continues. "THEY-CONTAIN-IMPORTANT-LIMITED-TIME-OFFERS."

"That's right!" Monotaro agrees. "And then go do something quick and impulsive!"

"Or... don't?" Monophanie adds. "I mean, it's up to you..."

"That's coward talk!" Monosuke protests. "Listen to your heart!"

"SO LONG! BEAR-WELL!"

The kubs fling brochures in every direction, then scatter.

Your brain feels like it's filled with sludge. How are you supposed to process any of this?

At least they weren't talking about murder. Unless that's one of the things in the brochures? You notice one on the floor by your feet, pick it up, and open it.

One page describes a newly opened casino and its offer to buy casino coins, with a one-day offer of half price. The price is in Monocoins - you'd been wondering if those things would ever have a use. A two-page spread announces the opening of the swimming pool and showcases a variety of swimsuits for sale, all discounted by 50% or more. You can't decide whether it's worse to look at the men's swimsuits and their reminders of the life you've already been living, or the women's swimsuits and their reminders of the body you don't have. Then on one of the last pages...

Why the hell are the bears running a surgery center?

It's on the second floor, in what used to be one of the classrooms. Out of curiosity, your eyes scan the list. There's no way it could possibly have...

The second-to-last entry reads: BOOB RE-SIZING: 250 MONOCOINS (PER CUP SIZE) - SALE: 50 MONOCOINS (80% OFF, TODAY ONLY)

The last entry reads: SEX CHANGES (EITHER KIND!): 30000 MONOCOINS - SALE: 300 MONOCOINS (99% OFF, TODAY ONLY)

Your breath catches in your throat. You close the pamphlet before anyone can see what you were looking at. It's not like you need to look any longer when the words are burned into your memory.

You've found a few dozen Monocoins scattered around the school. It's hard to imagine there even being thirty thousand of them throughout this whole place. But with that discount... wait, what are you even saying? The Monokubs imprisoned you all and told you to kill each other, and this pamphlet is as ridiculous as everything else they do!

And yet...

You glance around the dining hall. Thankfully, none of the others look focused on you. You came here to eat, didn't you? But hunger feels impossible to process right now.

"Kaede?" you squeak. "Do you have a minute?"

She looks back at you, her face once again worried. "Uh, yeah! What's up?"

You lead her away, then over to the first floor classroom. Thankfully, it's deserted. You ignore the desks and sit down against one of the walls, your hand still clutching the brochure, and Kaede sits down next to you.

It takes you a while to figure out how to begin. Eventually, you speak. "All that talk yesterday, it... jogged my memory. About something I had been trying to forget. That the truth is... Kiyo was right."

Kaede pauses before responding. "About, uh, what?"

"About me having a... female soul," you clarify. "It's not how I would have said it, but it's close enough."

"Wait, are you saying you're gay?" Kaede asks.

"N-No!" you stammer. "I mean, probably, but not in the way you think. What I'm trying to say is that I... feel like I'm supposed to be a girl."

"Oh!" Kaede's eyes go to the pamphlet you're holding. "Does that have something to do with..."

"Yeah." You open it to the page that seized your attention and hold it out to her. "It sounds like the kubs could help, but trusting them with something like that is, well..." You turn away, your face reddening.

"Wait, you remembered this just before their announcement?" Kaede asks. "Were they expecting you to?"

"I'm not sure if it was my imagination," you begin, "but I think I saw Monodam come in my room last night, and... shine a light at me, right before I remembered all this. Maybe that helped me remember? But even so..."

"You... really want this, huh?" Kaede asks.

You drop the brochure and bury your face in your hands. "Monokuma said he would find some other way to make this interesting. This is probably meant to do that, whether or not the offer is for me. And there are all sorts of ways it could go wrong, and I’m worried about that, but... I’m even more worried about knowing that I could have done this and didn’t and then not getting the chance again. I don’t know if I could ever get thirty thousand coins, and... and even if we get out of here, these surgeries aren’t easy to get! And maybe it’s silly to think they could do this, but - they’re robot bears who pilot giant robot suits! Maybe they really can!"

"Okay." Kaede exhales. "If... that’s how you feel, I’ll support you. How many Monocoins do you have?"

You check your pockets. "Looks like... 57. That’s still a ways off, but..."

Kaede retrieves a pile of coins from her backpack. "Here. I’ve got... 48."

"You’re sure?" you ask.

"Of course!" she insists. "You’re my friend, and... I don’t really understand this, but I can see how important it is to you. I want to do whatever I can to help!"

"Okay. Thanks, Kaede." You take the coins, your heart pounding. "That makes... about a third of the price."

"Well," Kaede offers, "we know there’s at least one more person who would help."

For the first time today, you laugh. "I... think we should leave her for last. In the meantime..."

The two of you come up with a plan, then return to the dining hall to finally have breakfast. The first person on your list isn’t there today - the one who should ask the fewest questions. Once you finish eating, the two of you set out to look for him.

You and Kaede find Kokichi in the library. He’s eying the top of the bookshelves, but turns to you as you arrive.

"Hey guys!" he calls out. "Have you seen Tsumugi around?"

"Not today," you reply. "We were actually looking for you."

Kokichi was following Tsumugi yesterday, too - is he trying to mess with her or something? Next time you see her, you’ll have to ask what’s up.

Kokichi grins. "And now you’ve found me! What can I help you with, Shuichi?"

"Could I borrow some Monocoins?" you ask.

Kokichi’s grin widens. "Maybe! What for?"

"That’s a secret," you say. "But I think you’ll get a kick out of it when you find out."

Kokichi’s eyes scrutinize you. "So it’s all about trust, huh? Believing that whatever you’re up to will be more fun than getting something for cheap myself."

"Yes," you confirm.

"Sure, why not?" Kokichi’s smile returns as he digs around in his bag. "If you’re this bold about it, it’s gotta be good."

Kokichi hands you a pile of coins, and you take them. "Thanks, Kokichi."

"Use ‘em well!" Kokichi urges. "And don’t forget - you owe me!"

With that, he leaves. You count the coins he gave you - 46. Halfway there.

"That went well, huh?" Kaede asks.

"Yeah," you agree. "Next up is..."

You find Korekiyo in the warehouse. His eyes light up as he spots you.

"Shuichi! Kaede!" he greets you. "How fare the two of you this morning?"

"It’s going well," you say. "At least, it is now. Do you have some time to talk?"

"Certainly," Kiyo replies. "Is something the matter?"

You glance around to make sure the three of you are alone before continuing. "I... think what you said yesterday helped jog my memory. About the truth of... who I really am."

He gives a thoughtful nod. "By which you mean, you now see yourself as female?"

"Yes," you confirm. "And... I want to change my body to match."

Korekiyo sets a hand on the side of his face. "I have heard of the methods. But... are they available here? Unless you mean simply to..."

You feel yourself redden. "No, I, uh, mean the proper way, I think. The Monokubs distributed pamphlets announcing some services they’re offering now, and... that’s one of them."

You withdraw the pamphlet from your pocket and hand it to him. He flips through it to the right page, then nods and returns it.

"I see," Kiyo says. "I assume you’ve considered the... risks?"

"I have," you confirm. "Which just leaves getting the payment soon enough. We’ve got about half so far."

Kiyo nods again. "I do not have much coin, but I would be happy to contribute what I can."

He reaches into his pockets, then hands you the coins he found. It’s less than the other stashes, but you feel deep significance in it.

Kiyo’s eyes beam. "I look forward to seeing who you become. And I am sure my sister will be delighted to meet that woman as well."

A warm smile crosses your face. "Thanks, Kiyo. This means a lot."

You and Kaede take your leave, and you count the coins Kiyo gave you. 37 of them - which leaves 112 to go.

You’re still basking in his enthusiasm as the two of you step out to the courtyard. Before long, you find Gonta searching carefully through the grass.

"Hey, Gonta!" Kaede calls to him.

Gonta looks over, then stands to his full height to face the two of you. "Kaede and Shuichi! Is pleasure to see you!"

"It's a pleasure to see you too, Gonta," you say. "Are you busy?"

"Gonta looking for bugs!" Gonta announces. "But... Gonta still not finding any. Can Gonta help with something?"

"I think so," you reply. "Do you have any Monocoins?"

"Mono... coins..." Gonta frowns, then squats down. He reaches into the grass, and stands back up holding one. "You mean these?"

"Yeah!" you confirm. "I'm trying to borrow a bunch of them. Would you be willing to lend me some?"

Gonta smiles. "Sure! Gonta find many of these and happy to help. Does Shuichi need them for something?"

"I... realized that I do actually want to be a woman," you admit. "And apparently the kubs can help, but they want a lot of coins in exchange."

"Oh!" Gonta says. "So Gonta is helping Shuichi be woman? That sound very gentlemanly! But... Gonta confused. What it mean to help Shuichi be woman?"

"In this case it's, um, a kind of surgery," you explain. "To make my body, uh, shaped more like a woman's."

"Shaped more like..." Gonta's eyes travel lower on your body for a moment before he looks to the side and reddens. "S-sorry! Was most ungentlemanly of Gonta!"

"I-It's fine!" you assure him.

Gonta rummages in his pockets, his expression settling back down as he does. His eyes return to you as he holds out a pile of coins in each hand. "Here! Gonta hope Shuichi's journey into womanhood go very well."

You smile as you take them. "Thanks, Gonta."

71 coins - Gonta wasn't kidding about finding a lot of them. Just 41 left.

You and Kaede head to the gym to look for what should be the last contributor you'll need. For the first time, you're happy to catch sight of Tenko Chabashira.

Tenko doesn't notice the two of you at first - she's engrossed in the series of punches and kicks she's unleashing against the air. When she finishes, she looks around, and her eyes land on you.

"What do you want? Are you here to ogle me?" Her eyes dart to Kaede. "I mean- it's fine for you to watch, Kaede! It's just Shuichi I'm worried about!"

"Um," Kaede begins, "before you say that, maybe you should hear Shuichi out first?"

"Like I care what he has to say!" Tenko's eyes narrow as they return to you. "Unless... have you changed your mind about my idea?"

"Well... yes," you admit. "Did you see the brochures the kubs were handing out?"

Tenko's hostility falls away. "Wait, really? You're becoming a girl?"

You're not sure if that's how you'd phrase it, but close enough. "Yeah. I remembered some things last night, and... realized this is the truth of what I want. So now I'm trying to get enough Monocoins to afford it. We're almost to 300."

"I will gladly help you free yourself from your maleness!" Tenko strikes a pose, and you're pretty sure she's salivating. "But... wait! I can't trust you yet, it could be a trick! I will accompany you to the surgery, and then we will pay together!"

"Uh, sure." Does she really think you would make this up just to scam her out of some Monocoins?

"Great!" Tenko declares. "Then let's do this!"

The three of you head upstairs and enter the former classroom. It's been emptied of its previous furnishings, but it still doesn't look like much of a surgery center. The room's windows are now covered, and it now contains a bed as well as a variety of implements. In the middle of the room stands the lone figure of Monodam.

"HAVE-YOU-COME-TO-PURCHASE-A-PROCEDURE?" he asks.

"Um, yes," you reply. "But, first... can you tell me what the sex reassignment procedure entails?"

"FOR-YOU? MALE-TO-FEMALE-SEX-REASSIGNMENT-CONSISTS-OF-RESHAPING-THE-GENITALIA-TO-THE-INWARD-CONFIGURATION. ONCE-COMPLETE-THEY-WILL-BE-NEARLY-INDISTINGUISHABLE-FROM-OTHER-INWARD-GENITALS."

He... actually sounds like he knows what he's doing. "Then... yes. That is what I want."

"EXCELLENT. THAT-WILL-BE-300-MONOCOINS."

With Tenko on board, you have more than enough. You hand over the coins you've collected, and Tenko pays the rest. Monodam puts them away, then returns to you.

"OTHERS-MUST-WAIT-OUTSIDE."

"What? No!" Tenko protests. "I want to watch!"

Your cheeks flush. "No watching!"

"THE-PROCEDURE-ITSELF-WILL-TAKE-FORTY-TWO-MINUTES. YOU-WILL-BE-ALLOWED-BACK-IN-AFTER-COMPLETION."

That sounds... fast. And very precise.

Kaede takes Tenko by the hand. "Come on, let's... leave them to it."

She looks at you and smiles, her face not quite hiding her worry. You look back with what you assume is a similar expression. The two of them exit, and Monodam locks the door behind them.

"NOW-WE-CAN-BEGIN."

"Um... okay. What should I do?"

"UNDRESS-YOUR-LOWER-BODY-AND-LIE-ON-THE-BED."

You comply, removing your hat as you do, and Monodam secures you into place. Your legs are in a raised position, splayed to give him access to... where he'll be working. You look away until he positions a curtain over your midsection, obscuring your lower body except for your feet.

"Wait, why do you need the curtain when I'll be unconscious?"

"GENERAL-ANAESTHESIA-IS-NOT-NECESSARY."

"What?"

"A-LOCAL-ANAESTHETIC-WILL-SUFFICE. OBSERVE."

A needle jabs into your rear. In seconds, the surrounding area turns numb, followed by the rest of the whole lower half of your body.

"ON-TO-THE-PROCEDURE."

You hear... sounds. You try not to think about them, and especially not about you being what they're happening to. Cutting, shifting, squelching, joined by the smell of blood. Noises that sound like a variety of power tools that you've never heard of being involved with this surgery. The sounds of cows and horses and other animals - okay, he has to be messing with you, right? He's got recordings of a whole bunch of weird noises that he's playing just because he can?

You lie in place, too frazzled to even try to talk to him. Maybe it would have been good to have Tenko keeping an eye on this.

After what feels like forever, the sounds recede. Monodam emerges and walks out to the side of the bed.

"THE-SURGERY-WAS-SUCCESSFUL. YOU-MAY-NOW-SEE-THE-RESULTS."

He removes the curtain, revealing... exactly what you had hoped to get out of this. Which... shouldn't be the case yet, this is supposed to take time to heal properly. But there it is.

Before you can finish processing it, pins and needles begin to spread throughout the lower half of your body as sensation returns.

"Wait. What's going on?"

"THE-ANAESTHETIC-IS-WEARING-OFF. I-USED-ENOUGH-FOR-FORTY-THREE-MINUTES."

You did not ask enough questions before this.

"How is it all healed already?"

"I-AM-A-MASTER-OF-MY-CRAFT."

That does appear to be true.

Monodam releases the restraints, and you carefully pull your half-numb legs back down to the rest of you. Monodam walks away, then retrieves two items from a drawer.

"HORMONAL-SUPPLEMENTS-ARE-AVAILABLE-FOR-PURCHASE. HERE-IS-A-COMPLEMENTARY-ONE-WEEK-SUPPLY."

He hands you an unlabeled bottle containing a number of blue pills. He then hands you the other item, a 5-pack of white panties.

"ALSO-COMPLEMENTARY. ENJOY."

There are... more things you overlooked than you'd thought. But apparently Monodam had it all figured it out. "Um, thanks. This is... really impressive."

"WE-PROVIDE-EXCELLENT-CUSTOMER-SERVICE."

You open the panties and pull on a pair, your legs now cooperating enough to allow it. It occurs to you that one thing he didn't give you is a dilator. Hopefully that means his miracle technique doesn't require that, either.

As you stand, you hear the door open. Any embarassment about being seen half-dressed gives way to relief that you've made it through this.

"Shuichi!" Kaede calls out. "Did... everything go all right?"

Tenko spends a full second staring directly at your underwear before her eyes return to your face. "You did it! Shuichi, this is wonderful!"

"Yeah, apparently it... all went great." Neither of them seem to know enough about the procedure to be surprised to see you standing. You put your pants back on, and you're pretty sure you spot Kaede trying to sneak a glance as you do.

You also retrieve your hat, but decline to wear it. It's a new you from here on out. No need to hide behind a brim.

"So... now what?" Kaede asks.

"I guess we should tell the others," you acknowledge. "I just hope they're all okay with it..."

"THEY-WILL-ALL-CONTINUE-TO-GET-ALONG-WITH-YOU. IF-THEY-DO-NOT-THEY-WILL-BE-PUNISHED."

"Exactly!" Tenko shouts. "If anyone has a bad word to say, just tell me and I'll pummel them!"

"I hope there's no need for any of that," you say. "But... thanks."

The three of you exit the room. Tenko falls into step alongside you and Kaede - you suppose she's decided to stick around. As contorted as her reasons are, you can't help but appreciate her enthusiasm.

Now to see how everyone else will respond.

Chapter Text

Joined by Kaede and Tenko, you descend the stairs to the first floor. You hear voices below, but they fall quiet before you can make them out.

At the bottom, you find the people they belong to. Kokichi, Tsumugi, and Gonta.

"Hey, Shuichi!" Kokichi calls out. "You're looking well!"

"Yeah, I... guess I am." Did Gonta tell him? It's not like you asked him to keep it secret, there wouldn't have been a point.

"Is something wrong?" Tsumugi asks. "Kokichi said we should wait for you, but I'm not sure why..."

"Ah." Your tongue fumbles around in search of the words. "Well, the truth is-"

"Shuichi is a woman now!" Tenko announces. "So you males better watch yourselves around hi- around her, because I will NOT tolerate any misbehavior!"

"Congratulations!" Gonta replies. "But... Gonta confused. Shuichi not looking very different, except for... not wearing hat?"

A laugh escapes you. "Yeah, I decided it was time to move on from it. I should start looking more different over time."

Kokichi's usual grin returns. "You were right, Shuichi. What a play!"

"Shuichi is not some circus for you to gawk at!" Tenko declares. "Show her proper respect!"

"Um, to put it plainly," Tsumugi begins, "you're saying Shuichi was... getting surgery?"

Your face reddens. "Uh, yes. It's all like Tenko said."

"Oh, wow," Tsumugi replies. "Well... I'm glad it went well!"

You're going to be having this conversation so many times, aren't you. "Yeah. Um, thanks."

"Are you okay?" Kaede asks.

You nod. "I'm fine, just... a bit worn out after everything."

"Oh!" Gonta exclaims. "Gentlemen must not upset lady! Gonta not wish to trouble you!"

Tenko steps forward. "If you don't want to trouble her, then find somewhere else to be!"

With that, Tenko shoos the three of them away. You offer an apologetic look to Gonta as he leaves. Tenko is certainly brash, but you can't help but appreciate her determination to help.

"Hey, Shuichi?" Kaede asks. "Did you want to try dressing differently?"

You consider the question. "I mean... it does sound nice. But I'm not sure how to..."

"I have a few other outfits!" Kaede offers. "Maybe there's something that can fit you?"

"I, uh, if you think that would..." The prospect of wearing Kaede's clothes would have felt unthinkably intimate yesterday. But you didn't know you would have wanted to yesterday, and now... it's not strange for girls to share clothes, right?

Kaede takes your hand. "Yeah, it's fine! Come on!"

She begins to lead you out towards the exit. Tenko keeps pace with the two of you. "This is great! Now we can give Shuichi a makeover!"

Before you can get outside, you catch sight of another figure. Miu, one hand on her hips as she stares you down.

"Hey! Shuichi!" she snarls. "Did I fuckin' hear that right? You did what?"

Your blood turns to ice. Miu is the last person here you wanted hassling you about this.

Tenko speaks before you can. "Shuichi is indeed a woman now! Anyone who has a problem with that will face my wrath!"

Miu stares at you, incredulous. "You got the fuckin' bears to make you a vag? Do you seriously hate me that much?"

"Um, Miu," Kaede begins, "I don't think this has anything to do with y-"

"So none of you even considered it?" Miu interrupts. "Shuichi needs a pussy, better go to those shits who locked us up here! You didn't think there might be anyone more qualified to stick machines in your crotch?"

"You said this was stupid!" you protest. "And you never mentioned doing anything like that!"

"So what?" Miu asks. "I'm the gorgeous girl genius Miu Iruma! I could have built something to get your junk sorted out, and for a way better price!"

You're afraid to ask. "Wh... what price?"

"Your old bits!" Miu exclaims. "You're not using that cock anymore, but it could make a great toy!"

Your face goes red-hot. "That's not how it works at all! And even if it was - no!"

"U-Ugh!" Miu steps back, her expression fouling. "So you really do think so little of me! Well, fuck you, too!"

With that, she turns and runs in the opposite direction.

Eventually, Kaede speaks up. "Wait, what did you mean about that not being how it works?"

You put your face in your hands. "It's, parts of it get used to, uh..."

"Oh!" Kaede replies. "That's... wow."

"It's amazing!" Tenko adds. "Using something so awful to make something so beautiful!"

You lower your hands and straighten yourself. "Um, in any case... we were going to check out clothes, right?"

"Right!" Kaede agrees. "Let's go!"

It doesn't take long for the three of you to reach Kaede's room. Which... isn't a big deal, right? You're just three girls hanging out.

Kaede digs around and retrieves a few vests and skirts. You shed your jacket and pants to try them on, and the embarrassment of being seen in your underwear finally catches up to you. But Kaede and Tenko don't seem bothered by anything they're seeing, and that helps settle your nerves.

Most of them don't even get halfway on before it's clear that they won't fit. The one thing that does fit is the largest vest, a darker shade of pink than the one Kaede wears.

You look at yourself in the mirror. Combined with your white shirt beneath it, it's a similar look to Kaede's. It's a bit loose in front, though. Still, seeing yourself dressed this way is... hard to describe, but there's a deep satisfaction in it.

You put your pants back on and look again. Now it's a combination of her style with yours. There's something striking to the look, but you're not sure it's what you're aiming for.

"Don't worry, Shuichi!" Tenko announces. "I'll get you a skirt!"

Before you can ask how, she's left the room. You don't think her skirts would be any closer to your size than Kaede's, but maybe she has an idea?

"She sure has a lot of energy, huh?" Kaede remarks.

You laugh. "She really does. And that energy is what lead to me remembering all this."

"You... are glad you remembered, right?" Kaede asks. "It sounds like they weren't the best memories, but..."

"It's worth it," you confirm. "This is the truth of who I am, and getting to live that out is amazing. Some of it has been... weird, but even so, I wouldn't trade it for anything."

Kaede finds a chair and sits down, and you do the same. "That's great. Um, if this is all going well... did you have any more ideas about the mastermind?"

"Ah!" you exclaim. "I... was too distracted to even think about that. We could try to talk to people, but... it might be hard to get them talking about that rather than about me."

"That could be a clue!" Kaede suggests. "If the mastermind wanted you to do this, maybe the ways people talk about it will tell us something! At least, if... if they really are one of us..."

"Maybe." You glance around the room. "People should be getting lunch soon, right? That could be a good time to try this."

"That's true," Kaede agrees. "But before that... where is Tenko, anyway?"

As she finishes speaking, the door bursts open. Tenko stumbles into the room, out of breath and holding a bag.

"Shuichi, I found one!" Tenko reaches into the bag and tosses something towards you. You catch it and hold it up - it's a bigger skirt than the ones Kaede offered, with a black and blue plaid pattern. It... might actually work.

You try it on. It fits perfectly, hanging down to around your knees. Which might be for the best, you're not sure you're ready to show off your thighs. You take a look in the mirror, and... wow.

You turn back to the others. "This looks... great. You're sure it's fine for me to..."

"Of course!" Kaede confirms.

An excited grin covers Tenko's face. "You see, Shuichi? This is what you've gained from becoming a woman!"

Before you can ask where she got the skirt, Kaede speaks up. "That bag... is there something else in it?"

"Yes! Observe!" Tenko pulls something out, in a similar shade of blue to her clothes. A bikini top - you recognize the style from the pamphlet. Then a pink one that matches Kaede's clothes, followed by a larger black one that matches yours.

Your eyes widen. "No. Absolutely not."

"You have to!" Tenko insists. "At least try it on!"

"You're just trying to get me to undress!" you protest.

"There's nothing strange about girls changing around each other!" Tenko argues. "We'll do it too! Right, Kaede?"

"Huh?" Kaede gets out. "That, um... Y-Yeah! Sure!"

"Kaede, you don't have to do this!" you assure her.

"I-I want to!" she insists. "This is how we can show that we recognize that you're a girl! I don't want you to have any doubts!"

You breathe in and glance between the two of them. Doing this would be embarrassing, and there's no need for it yet. But... Kaede is right. This is their way of acknowledging the truth of who you are, and you don't want to turn that down. Especially when you do want that acknowledgement.

"Okay," you agree. "If... you're sure."

Tenko beams with delight. Kaede still wears a nervous smile, but gives a nod.

You turn away from the others and remove the vest. From there, you shed the skirt, your shirt, and your underwear. You instinctively cross your arms over your chest as you turn back around.

Tenko and Kaede show no such hesitations. Their eyes are already on you, their bodies in full view. You blush and avert your eyes, your legs instinctively closing. But... this isn't supposed to be a big deal, right?

So you shouldn't treat it like one. You do your best to relax, dropping your hands and returning your eyes to the two of them. It's... not like you ever stopped liking girls, but Tenko's behavior suggests that shouldn't be an issue. And Kaede knows you both well, and she doesn't look concerned, and... you can't believe Miu keeps calling her flat-chested.

"See?" Tenko announces. "It's nothing to worry about!"

"Y-Yeah." You take another breath. "I guess not. But I still look a bit different from you two."

"Plenty of women have small chests!" Tenko assures you. "Don't think that makes you any less of one!"

"The brochure mentioned that, too, right?" Kaede asks. "So if you wanted them to make you, well, bigger..."

You glance down. "Maybe? Depends on how it goes with... right! The pills!"

You retrieve the bottle Monodam gave you and examine it. It's as blank as before. "He didn't even tell me how often to take these. I guess they're estrogen? Or some kind of advanced substitute?"

Kaede gives the bottle a questioning look. "I'd ask if they're safe, but, well..."

"Yeah. There isn't much point in questioning it now." You open the bottle, pop a pill into your mouth, and put away the rest.

You look back up to see Tenko approaching with the two pieces of your swimsuit, and you reach out to take them. She puts them into your hands, the contact lingering for a moment.

"Now put them on!" Tenko urges.

You put on one piece, then the other, as Kaede does the same. Tenko hesitates, and her eyes remain on you as you finish changing. Once you do, she follows.

You take another look in the mirror. Fortunately, the top matches your proportions, but it also leaves no mystery of what those proportions are. Kaede and Tenko join you, their reflections appearing next to yours.

"What do you think?" Tenko asks.

"I think... I'm not ready to wear this around anyone else," you admit. "But maybe someday."

Tenko nods. "Very well! When you're ready, we should have a vacation at the pool! I've always wanted to do that!"

You're not sure what she means by vacation, but... that does sound like it could be fun.

"How about the other outfit?" Kaede asks. "Do you want to wear it to lunch?"

Part of you hesitates, but you've already started telling people about an even bigger step. "Sure. Maybe that will make this easier to explain."

The three of you return to your previous outfits - you to the vest and skirt, Kaede and Tenko to their usual clothes. Kaede opens the door, and after a breath to steady yourself, you follow her out.

Footsteps inform you that the three of you aren't alone in the dorm lobby. You find their source - Kaito Momota.

"What was that about?" Kaito calls out. "You almost knocked me over back th- ...wait, Shuichi? What the hell?"

Your eyes widen. You try to think of a response, but come up blank.

"Did Tenko drag you into this?" Kaito asks. "Is that what all that running was for?"

"I did no such thing!" Tenko insists. "This was entirely Shuichi's choice!"

Kaito glances between the two of you, visibly confused. "So... all that talk yesterday made you want to try dressing like a girl?"

"There's... a bit more to it than that," you clarify. "For one thing, uh..."

"Shuichi is not merely dressing like a woman!" Tenko cuts in. "She had the surgery this morning!"

Kaito blinks. "The... wait, you made him do WHAT?"

"Tenko didn't make me do any of this!" you insist. "I just... did some thinking after yesterday, and realized the truth about what I wanted!"

"Shuichi and I have been talking about this all morning," Kaede adds. "We only met up with Tenko right beforehand. If... if anyone encouraged her to go through with this, it was me!"

"I... can't make sense out of any of this!" Kaito declares. "But - Shuichi! If you decide to reclaim your masculinity, find me for training! None of this can break our bond!"

Tenko steps forward, seething with fury. "You degenerate swine! How dare you talk to her that way?"

She takes another step forward, and Kaito bolts.

"Nraaaaagh!" Tenko screams. "How could he say something so awful?"

You glance in the direction of Kaito's exit. "I'm... having second thoughts about this plan."

Tenko grabs your hand. "No! You can't back down over someone like him! This is what you wanted!"

"I'm sure we'll be able to smooth things over with Kaito," Kaede adds. "Don't let it get to you, okay?"

It already got to you. But you don't need to keep dwelling on it. "Yeah. You're right. This... hasn't changed what I want."

The three of you make your way out of the dorms and over to the dining hall. The noises tell you to expect plenty of people inside.

Your arrival draws the attention of all six occupants. Himiko, Angie, Rantaro, and Ryoma, all seated at a table, plus Keebo and Kirumi, both standing nearby.

The conversation stops for a moment, until Angie breaks the silence. "Hi, Shuichi! You look good!"

You smile back at her, relieved by the positive response. "Thanks. I... think I like this look."

"So you did decide to try out crossdressing?" Rantaro asks. "It's not a bad look on you, but... What convinced you to go for it?"

This time, you don't even bother trying to come up with a way to put it before Tenko's usual interjection. "Shuichi is not crossdressing! She has become a woman for real!"

Rantaro's eyes widen. "You mean, what the bears mentioned, with..."

"The... surgery, yeah," you confirm. "After all the talk yesterday, I... remembered, last night, that this is the truth of what I wanted."

"Huh," Rantaro remarks. "I still have some things about myself that I don't remember, but... I don't think I'd want it to be anything like that. Hope you don't mind me saying that."

"Well, I do not think it's a big deal!" Angie says. "On my island, things like this happen from time to time. Even Atua can be either a man or a woman!"

"I know a spell to turn a guy into a girl..." Himiko mutters. "I haven't learned the reverse yet, though..."

"I met a woman in prison who used to be a man," Ryoma adds. "She... wasn't having a great time there."

Wouldn't Ryoma's prison have been specifically for men? You try not to think about the implications of this.

"Let me know if I can do anything to help," Kirumi offers. "For example, if you have need of menstrual products..."

No one else here actually knows anything about this procedure, do they. "Um, n-no need to worry about that!"

"Shuichi, I am not sure I fully understand," Keebo admits. "But my inner voice tells me it is good that you have done what is right for you!"

"Now that you mention it," Kaede adds, "how does gender work for robots?"

Keebo frowns and glances down. "I... have never thought about it. I have always called myself a boy, but... is that accurate?"

"Well," you suggest, "I think you can go with whatever you think feels right."

Keebo nods. "I see. Thank you, Shuichi!"

The room settles down, and you proceed with your meal. No one seems to be doing anything suspicious, and they're all trying to understand your situation in their own ways.

There's still one person you haven't spoken with about this. After lunch, Kaede and Tenko join you in your search for Maki.

You find her in the basement. Her eyes scan the three of you, showing no concern for your change in attire. "Hello. Do you need something?"

"Nothing like that," you admit. "I just wanted to make sure you knew."

"Shuichi has become a woman!" Tenko exclaims for the fifth time. "Make sure you treat her as one!"

"...Okay," Maki replies. "I... really don't care."

At this point, that's almost refreshing. "Well, um, thanks for not minding or anything."

Now everyone knows. The only thing left is to check back in with Korekiyo.

You find him in the library moments later. His eyes shine upon catching sight of you.

"I heard you outside," he explains. "So your surgery was a success?"

"Yes," you confirm. "Thanks again for your help!"

"Wonderful!" Kiyo replies. "And I see it has won you the favor of Miss Chabashira as well?"

"I helped Shuichi to attain womanhood!" Tenko declares. "I accompanied her to the surgery and helped pay for it!"

A smile spreads across Kiyo's eyes. "I see. What a dedicated friend you are."

Tenko pauses to examine Kiyo with a questioning look. "For a male, you aren't very masculine. Have you considered becoming a woman as well?"

Kiyo lets out a soft laugh. "I do dabble in some things one might consider feminine, but that is not something I desire. Still, I am glad to look the part."

You're not sure what he means by that, but you decide not to pry. He's been remarkably supportive and understanding throughout all this.

After a moment of silence, Kiyo's expression settles. "I suppose you are still looking for the mastermind?"

Kaede nods. "We've been busy today, but we're still trying to keep an eye out for any leads."

"That is understandable," Kiyo replies. "Despite their absence yesterday, I have spotted the bears multiple times today. I fear they may have more schemes in the works."

"You think there could be trouble again soon?" you ask.

"Perhaps," Kiyo says. "It may be that this was only a brief respite from their coercions, soon to come to an end. If that is the case... do be careful. It would be terrible for tragedy to befall any of you before I can introduce you to my sister."

"Don't worry!" Kaede assures him. "If they try anything, we'll make sure to stop them!"

"Any degenerate who tries to commit a murder will face the full fury of Neo-Aikido!" Tenko declares.

"Whatever is going on here," you add, "we'll work together to uncover the truth."

The smile returns to Kiyo's eyes. "Excellent. I will do whatever I can to aid in your success."

With that, you've finished informing everyone. Which just leaves whatever will happen next.

Maybe the bears will try again to start the killing game. Maybe they'll try to mess with you all some other way. But no matter what it is, you'll be ready. All of you, with whatever truths you'll discover together.

At the end of the day, the three of you separate and return to your rooms. You haven't been to yours since this morning, but... something feels out of place.

It's on the table - something you don't recognize. It looks like a Monopad, but not quite the same.

You pick it up and examine it. On the back are the words "Kubs Pad" - and when you touch the screen, a video begins to play...