Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

… … …
… … System Open.
… … … …

Opening Audio Transcript.

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[At: Team Danganronpa Computer Lab]
[Timestamp: 12:15 AM.]

[The sound of a door creaking]

Professor: Nakamura?

Professor: … Nakamura!!

Director: [Sigh] What is it, Idabashi?

Professor: What are you still doing here?

Director: I could ask you the same question.

Professor: I was just wrapping up my work for the day. But you've been sitting at this monitor all day!

[The sound of a door shutting, then footsteps]

Professor: What are you even doing?

Director: I've already said it to you- and literally everyone in the fucking company!!

Director: The damn simulation fucked up- because of your invention mind you. And now there's so much data that got- scrambled around that I have to fix.

Professor: … I'm very sorry for my robot and the problems he caused..

Director: Yeah, you better be..

Professor: Bu-.. [Sigh] I must ask though.. Why can't you just take them out of the simulation?

Director: Well since it shut down before it could finish, all of them are still wired up to the simulation even our survivors. Which means we can't take them out without the risk of brain damage so severe they're in a vegetative state.

Professor: Ah..

Director: Yeah, so I'd rather not get sued along with our show's cancellation. I'm already juggling enough shit as it is.

Professor: What are you going to do then?

Director: Rerun the program. It's my only option, transferring them over to a different program would both be risky and take too long, plus I'm already almost finished with fixing it up. It should be good to go soon.

Professor: Alright, I'll leave you to it.

Professor: Just… make sure to take care of yourself, alright?

Director: Yeah yeah whatever.

[The sound of footsteps, then the door closing.]

Director: … “ooh Nakamura let's add a robot protagonist! It'll have viewer connection, it'll make them feel like they're in the show ooo…”

Director: I should've never gone with that stupid robot idea…

Director: But it's whatever- whatever! I can fix this shit..

…
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… ….
Audio Transcript Finished..
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… > Opening Killing Game Simulator..
> Welcome ***** Nakamura!.

… > Open: Killing Game Participants Number.
… … ….
… … > Number: 17..
> Is this correct? Y/N.
….
> Y.
… > Upload New Host Data.
Uploading …
…
… …
… . … …
Uploading complete!
…
… > Game Start.
> Do you wish to start the killing game? Y/N
> Y.
> Processing.
…
… …
… > Killing Game Start! Enjoy the Bloodshed!~

Chapter Text

Staring at the sky, my eyes burned a little. I couldn't help it… being able to see the real sun again after so long.

I'm gonna try to leave that all in the past… of course everything will stick with me but it'll be okay, I have people by my side now! I have friends… Real friends.

Shuichi: So.. What do we do now?

Maki: Hm?

Shuichi: I mean.. After everything that's happened and what we learned.. What do we do now?

Maki: .. We live. I suppose.

Shuichi: Heh.. I guess you're right..

Shuichi: Himiko?

Himiko: Nyeh?

Shuichi: You were staring off into space..

I gave him a nervous laugh and smile.. I didn't even notice I was doing that… oops.

Maki: hey don't rag on her, we've all been through a lot.

Shuichi: Hehe.. Sorry..

The two started playfully bickering, I didn't join it but it was nice to watch Maki and Shuichi without so much edge. Kaede and Kaito would be proud of them… makes me wonder if Angie and Tenko would be proud of me-

*THUD*

…huh?

Maki: Shuichi!?

Shuichi suddenly passed out, Maki had swooped down to grab him before he could hit the ground. I tried to run towards them but I-

I can't…

As I moved I felt like they were getting farther and farther away from them, even putting all my effort into running I couldn't do a thing.

I felt myself slowly slipping, no matter how hard I couldn't catch up.

My vision blurred and I felt my body hit the floor.

…
… …
… … …

Ugh…

Where am I…?

Opening my eyes doesn't show anything, just complete darkness.. I felt myself sitting in a criss-cross position.

As I got up I stumbled slightly into the wall. I don't know what I expected to hit but it definitely wasn't a cold metallic surface.

Where am I?? Where's-... Wait.. Who am I looking for again?

I feel like I should call out for somebody, a name being hitched in my throat but long gone in my memories. My head was spinning and I could barely think straight…

But I gotta find a way out of…Wherever I'm in.

Shuffling around a little I kept hitting the sides of something, it rattled around slightly every time. My hands were wondering to try and find a doorknob or anything… ah-ha!! Found it!

*SQUEAK*

Oh, it was just a locker.

I was worried I was locked inside some crazy escape room… well it still kinda looks like that, but at least it wasn't as scary as I thought it was.

Fumbling out the locker I take a look at my surroundings, it seems to be some kinda classroom but it was abandoned, with overgrown vines and barbed wired windows. I wouldn't be surprised if I'd see graffiti somewhere. Taking a few steps I also found this place was super dusty, just pressing my foot down slightly made a print.

There was a big blackboard that looked super cool and futuristic, along with a weirdly big monitor… Why does it need to be that large??

I tried looking to see if there was anything in the desks but there was nothing inside them.

…What am I even doing here? I don't remember coming here, but I also don't remember getting kidnapped or anything. Last I remember I was with my mom watching a movie with my mom, then I just woke up here!

At least my head isn't spinning anymore-

*RATTLE RATTLE*

Himiko: N-nyeh!?

The locker next to the one I was in started rattling around like some was inside..

Now that I think about it, this is the perfect place for some low quality horror flick.. Oh no- what if I zombie or something is inside!? I don't want to die!

Wait wait- that's a bit stupid Himiko.. But you never know!!

*RATTLE RATTLE*

Carefully I approached the locker, despite my shaking I grabbed onto the knob of the locker, throwing it open as I stumbled backwards and watched as something fell out..

*THUD*

???: Ow…

Oh.. It was a person- now I feel kinda mean..

Putting my hand out towards the person, he looked at me for a moment before grabbing my hand. Wobbling as he stood up.

He's… really tall. With pretty long dark turquoise hair, his outfit consisted of a dark green beanie, with a few hairpins, one even looking like a ghost! He had this blue mask on with a cat face (one you'd see in a colon three) , a dark green turtleneck with a sage green sweater, along with a skirt with multiple layers getting darker as they went down, he also had blue bunny slippers. His sweater and skirt had multiple patches on them, he also had a messenger bag which he was clutching at the moment.

He looked around the room, taking in everything before looking down at me.

???: Who.. Where are we-

Himiko: I dunno.. I just woke up here.

???: I see.. So we're trapped in this place with no memory..

Himiko: Trapped..?

???: I doubt whoever kidnapped us would allow us to meander about without trapping us.

???: It's only a logical dedication.

Himiko: Hmpt, I guess you're right…

Himiko: Say, do you have any idea how you got here?

???: I'm afraid not, I just remember taking care of the children, blinking, then I was inside the locker.

Himiko: Awh man…

Himiko: Wait- what do you mean by “the children”

???: Oh well I take care of children at my orphanage, it's my job in a way.

Himiko: Oh that's so sweet!

???: … we should try to find a way-

*RISE AND SHINE, URSINE-!*

We both flinched at the loud noise, our heads turning towards the monitor.

*CLICK- BTZ*

Five colorful bears sat at a whimsical looking sofa, the area was strewn about with small plush dolls… hey wait- why does one look like me?? And another like this guy I just met?

Monotaro: Rise and Shine, Ursine!

Monotaro: You all may be confused about your current circumstances but don't worry, us- the monokubs are here to help!

All: WELCOME TO THE ULTIMATE ACADEMY FOR GIFTED JUVENILES!

Monodam: YOU-MAY-BE-WONDER-ING-WHAT-THAT-IS.

Monophanie: Well sillys! It's an academy just for you all! Isn't that wonderful?

Monosuke: Yep, sixteen of yous ultimates get free reign of this here school. And ya betta remember yous talents alright!? Mama's orders!

Monokid: And before you shitheads start ‘a whinin’, well tell you why you're here… LATER!

Monotaro: Yeah! It's a secret for now.. Hehe!

Monophanie: If you need any help just call for us! Well be right over~

Monotaro: Mhm! Go introduce yourself to your fellow ultimates! Make connections and new friendships

Monodam: AND-ENJOY-YOUR-STAY.

*SO LONG! BEAR WELL!*

*BTTZ*

… What?

What.. Were those things? I felt like I'd seen them before but they're definitely not some kind of anime or manga mascot.

The Ultimate Academy for Gifted Juveniles… that sounds pretty fancy but this place is so deserted, they could've at least cleaned up a little first.

Himiko: What was that all about?

???: I have no idea… but I must admit, those bears were pretty adorable~ Kehehe..

Himiko: .. I guess you're right.

Himiko: Say.. They said everyone here was a ultimate right?

???: Ah yes, they did say that.

Himiko: So, what's your talent?.. And your name- I forgot to ask that.

???: Right- my deepest apologies I forgot to introduce myself…

???: I am Korekiyo Shinguji, I am known as the Ultimate Child Caretaker.

Himiko: Ooh, that makes sense!! Hehe I probably could've guessed that.

Korekiyo: Kehehe, I suppose so.

Korekiyo: And you are?

Himiko: I'm Himiko Yumeno! I'm the Ultimate Shapeshifter!

Korekiyo: Really?

Himiko: Mhm. But officially I'm the Ultimate Cosplayer, it's a cover-up for my real identity.

Korekiyo: Oh my, how intriguing, but shouldn't a cover-up be a secret?

Himiko: Nyeh- well.. You seem pretty trustworthy so..

Korekiyo: Kehehe.. I'm glad to be seen as trustworthy. You did peak my interest however, how does your shape shifting abilities work?

Himiko: Well, I need specific requirements to shapeshift, the first is that I need the outfit of whoever I become, and two I can only turn into fictional characters.

Korekiyo: Really? Why is that?

Himiko: Well if I dare try to shapeshift into a real person… I become completely paralyzed! And I'm unable to move until I'm poked, and I gotta change quickly before it happens again.

Himiko: I can't embody real people like I can 2-D people, hence the paralyzation.

Korekiyo: How intriguing…

Korekiyo: Oh I'm sure the children would adore to meet you and see your “shapeshifting abilities”.

Himiko: Hmm.. Maybe once we're outta here I could give you a visit!

Korekiyo: That would be lovely.

Korekiyo: We should go look for the others here, it's not a good idea to just be a stranger to 14 others especially if we're stuck here.

Himiko: Yeah good idea, let's go Korekiyo!

Korekiyo: Please, just call me Kiyo.

Himiko: Oh alright.. Well let's go Kiyo!!

I marched out of the classroom, Korekiyo following closely behind me. The outside of the classroom was even more covered in overgrowth, there was grass growing on the floor even a few flowers dotted about. If it wasn't for the fact we were probably kidnapped this place would've been nice to explore, maybe even get a few pictures… I patted my pocket and just then realized my phone was missing, but I did feel something.

Himiko: Nyeh?

I pulled a weird thing outta my pocket, it looked too small to be a tablet but too big to be a phone. How didn't I notice this in my pocket before?

Korekiyo: I'm guessing that's not yours..

Himiko: Nope. Do you have one?

Kiyo searched around in his bag before pulling one out, he cocked his eyebrow slightly as he looked at it.

Korekiyo: it says “Kubpad” on it.

Himiko: Of course this thing is related to them.. We should just hold onto these for now.

Korekiyo: Agreed. Let's continue our search for others.

It didn't take long for us to find somebody though, it front of a stone dragon statue stood a green haired guy with a ponytail, wearing a blue dark blue striped shirt, beige pants, with a apron on, he had a choker with a vile of green… something as a necklace, along with snakebite piercing, nosering, and a variety of earrings. He looked like a mess though with a bunch of paint smudges, fitting since he was currently chewing a paintbrush.

Himiko: Hello?

???: Hm…

Himiko: Are you another student?

???: I wonder if we have any canvases…

Himiko: Why would this place have that? Unless we have an art room I guess..

???: Though would that even be appropriate for this time…

Himiko: Uhm, probably not.

Korekiyo: Himiko, I don't think he's paying attention to you.

Himiko: … Oh. Awh man..

I waved my hand over his face, hopping up and down slightly.

Himiko: Helloooooo?

Himiko: How do we get his attention..

Korekiyo: I've got an idea.

Looking over at Kiyo, he turned away a little but I could see him pull his mask down before pulling it back up. He talked towards the guy who was still mumbling to himself about painting, Kiyo stuck two fingers out slowly slinking his hand towards him… Before quickly pushing his fingers against the back of his neck.

???: AH!?-

Korekiyo: My apologies but at least I got your attention.

I giggled a little as Kiyo returned to my side, I saw his eyes crinkle a little into a somewhat smug smile underneath his mask. The guy let out a nervous chuckle as he scratched the back of his neck.

???: Sorry sorry, I just get lost in thought whenever I start thinking about creating. It's a terrible habit I know.

???: Say, I'm guessing you guys have no idea how we got here?

Himiko: Yeah…

???: Heh, it seems we all have major amnesia… it's strange.

???: Ah well, I'm not too worried about it.

Himiko: What?? How can you not be worried right now!?

???: Well we're at least stuck in a pleasant location.

???: Take a look at this statue, it's immaculate craftsmanship. I wonder how they got something that seems so valuable…

Korekiyo: It was likely here when it was a proper school. Curious on how it hasn't been stolen yet.

Himiko: Probably too heavy.

???: Guess you're right.

???: Nevertheless, it gives me a lot of inspiration, it'd make a great painting or clay statue. Though I suppose our general surroundings give me inspiration, hopefully there's some proper tools I could use.

Himiko: Yeah I get you, this place would make for great photos.

Himiko: Are you a painter or somethin?

???: Sorry, I haven't introduced myself have I? I'm Rantaro Amami, the Ultimate Artist.

Rantaro: while I mostly do paintings, I also focus on other types of art as well. Maybe I could show you some of my work some time.

Korekiyo: Hm.. I think I've heard of you before, I took some of the children to see your artwork.

Rantaro: Oh? You take care of kids?

Korekiyo: Yes… I'm the ultimate child caregiver, Korekiyo Shinguji, but you may call me Kiyo.

Himiko: Oh right, introductions.. Himiko Yumeno, Ultimate Cosplayer..

Rantaro: Haha, I guess you're not into social interactions.

Himiko: Well… it's just a bit of a pain you know.

Korekiyo: If you wish, I could introduce you to others.

Himiko: .. I'd like that.

Rantaro: Well anyway, I'll see you two around.

Himiko: Buh-bye.

Korekiyo: Take care.

Rantaro gave us a wave goodbye as he headed towards the stairs. I was about to follow him when I noticed Kiyo staring at a door, we looked at each other for a moment before walking towards it.

The door had what looked to be a sewing needle and thread painted on it, decals of mannequins and different anime characters around it.

Korekiyo: I noticed it when we left the classroom but I only really paid attention to it while we were speaking with Rantaro.

Himiko: I wonder what it is-

*RISE AND SHINE, URSINE*

We both jolted slightly, Kiyo caught me before I fell on the floor. Two of the robots appeared out of thin air!! The pink and yellow bears stood in front of each of us.

Monophanie: Oh we can answer that!!

Korekiyo: … were you listening to our conversation

Monophanie: Well not us specifically.. But Mama makes sure we're always there to help you all!!

Monosuke: Ya see, this is a “Research Lab”. It's a place for yous ultimates to hone your abilities!

Monosuke: This here lab is the “Ultimate Cosplayer”’s!

Monophanie: Aka, this is your lab Himiko!!

Himiko: Really? Can I go in?

Monophanie: No.

Himiko: Oh.

Monosuke: It ain't finished yet!! We still gotta add the finishing touches!!

Monophanie: Yep yep! So just focus on making friends for now, okie dokie?

Monosuke: Speakin’ of which, we gotta go get ready with the entry ceremony.

Monophanie: Oh right!! So sorry we gotta go!

*SO LONG! BEAR WELL!*

… They're gone.

Himiko: They're… Strange.

Korekiyo: Mhm.. Though they are undoubtedly adorable~

Himiko: I can't say I disagree, let's go find some new people.

Korekiyo: Yes let us.

Making our way downstairs, we peeked into the kitchen to find nobody but there was signs of life with a half empty glass of water on the table which maked Kiyo fuss a little, he got a little annoyed saying how however left it has “absolutely no manners” and “needs to learn respect.” He seemed genuinely peeved but I couldn't stop giggling. He was like a mom getting home from work seeing her kids have left a mess in the kitchen except it was just a glass of water, but it seems my giggling made him chill a little tho…So it's a win!

Next we made it to what seemed to be a warehouse, it looked like it stretched on for miles and miles… but we also found new people! One was a big buff guy with his hair in a ponytail like Rantaro but MUCH longer, he had this fancy looking coat, vest, and dress pants, fitted with gloves, tiny glasses and a cute bowtie. He looked like he was searching for something.

???: Ms. Tojo, Gonta can't seem to find what you're looking for…

Tojo?: I'm sure it's here SOMEWHERE, it is a warehouse after all.

The girl leaning on the wall was…Woah. She looked like some anime villain, she had this whole get up, a gymnastic looking base with poofy sleeves, a pretty corset with white wing-like fabric at the bottom- the same on top of her sleeves. She had long heeled boots with two pouches on her thighs, she was also adorned with jewels and I couldn't tell if they were real or not.. All of this added together with a mask that covered the middle of her face, a jewel in the middle she made it difficult to see her face well. She was undoubtedly elegant and pretty.

Tojo?: Ah! Greetings there, I'm guessing you're fellow captives?

Himiko: Yep..

Gonta?: Oh, hello there new friends! Apologies I didn't notice, I'm trying to find something for Ms. Tojo.

Korekiyo: Greetings you both, I am Korekiyo Shinguji and this is Himiko Yumeno, Ultimate Child Caregiver and Cosplayer respectively.

Gonta?: It's a pleasure to meet you both! Oh- here you go Ms. Tojo!

Gonta gracefully tossed a bottle of pills towards Ms. Tojo, she caught it with an elegant twirl. She was like a ballerina.

Tojo?: Thank you very much dear, you're such a help.

Gonta?: You're very welcome Ms. Tojo! It's always a pleasure to serve, especially somebody as kind and patient as you!

Tojo?: “Kind”? Oh no no dear.. I'm far from kind.

Gonta?: Oohh.. Right right, apologies Ms. Tojo!!

He stood up as he turned to us, giving an elegant bow.

Gonta?: Apologies for keeping my introduction from you both, I am Gonta Gokuhara, the Ultimate Butler, if you need anything please tell Gonta right away!

Korekiyo: No need to be sorry Gonta, you were busy after all.

He gave a nod then a gentle smile, he had such a warm comforting feeling like I just wanted to ask him for a hug. He stood up straight as he held his hands behind his back.

Gonta: Well Gonta has a few more tasks he needs to do, goodbye you both!

He quickly headed off.

Tojo?: Butlers, Maids, they're always such over workers..

Himiko: Mm.. I hope he takes care of himself too.

Himiko: By the way, what's your name? He called you Ms. Tojo earlier but I'm guessing Tojo’s not your first name.

Tojo?: Oh no no.

She did an elegant pirouette, leaning towards us as she had one hand on her chest and another in the air. She didn't even wobble as she was standing on just one foot, it's really impressive!.. I wish I could do that..

Tojo?: I am Kirumi Tojo! The extravagant, regal, menace of the night known as the Ultimate Supreme Leader!

She spoke in such a fancy semi-exaggerated way I couldn't help but start clapping at her introduction, Kiyo quickly joined in. She gave us a look for a moment before dipping down to do another bow, twirling around and standing straight.

Himiko: Are you sure you're not the ultimate ballerina or something? You're so elegant…

Kirumi: Oh please, these skills are all used for my evil plans, you need flexibility for the stunts I pull.

Korekiyo: How impressive, you have all the elegance and charm I would imagine for a villainess

Kirumi: Oh my, you're going to make me blush.

Kirumi: I'd love to stay and chat but I fear I have a headache, so I must be off, farewell you two.

Himiko: Buh-bye.

Korekiyo: Take care.

She left, just as elegantly as she had been. We waved her goodbye as she left. She felt like a real life anime character, I was in awh..

We poked around the warehouse to see if there was anything interesting but sadly there wasn't anything, not even any fabric or needle or nothin.. Maybe that'll be in my “research lab” thingy that those bears talked about.

Nothing else interesting was on the first floor, mostly just random classrooms, nothin’ special. So we made our way down deeper into this creepy basement area.

Himiko: Nyeh.. This place makes me nervous..

Korekiyo: How so?

Himiko: Weso it just has that vibe ya’ know.. Like something’s about to pop out..

Korekiyo: Hmm… I suppose I agree with you. Don't worry Himiko, I'm sure there's nothing dangerous here, and if there is I'll take care of it.

Himiko: Hehe, I'm putting my trust in you!

We snickered together as we entered the library, it had such a potent musty smell it made me cough a little. It had so many books but they all looked so old and boring.. Meh. Kiyo looked happy tho.

Korekiyo: This place is heavenly, I wonder what type of literature they have here.

Himiko: It's not very organized…

Korekiyo: Hm I suppose so, however it seems lived in a way, like people have been here before.. I must say whoever brought us here definitely gave off that feeling.

Himiko: Nyeh.. I guess it's kinda cozy..

Kiyo approached the bookshelf, and I followed. He carefully took the book off the shelf, it looked ancient, but as he opened it we saw…

Korekiyo: …

Himiko: …

Himiko: Is… is that Ranma ½-

???: It seems all the books here are much more modern than they look!!

The sudden voice startled both of us. I screamed so loud I probably could've broken glass if it was nearby and Kiyo fumbled with the book, trying to catch it but failing as it fell to the floor.

Despite her scary introduction, the girl looks really friendly. She had darker skin and long white hair tied into two big ponytails, her top looked like a yellow martial artist outfit, it was cropped to show her stomach. Her bottoms were more comfortable and casual looking being a dark teal with a little teal bow, she also had bandages wrapped around her hands and feet (and no shoes for some reason).

???: Oopsie! I didn't mean to scare you both so badly!

Korekiyo: It's.. Alright..

Kiyo sighed as he picked the book- or manga back up, looking at it for a moment before placing it back on the shelf.

Korekiyo: Who may you be?

???: Nyahaha! Yes, introduction!

???: I am Angie Yonaga! I am known as the Ultimate Aikido Master, and self-proclaimed protector of everyone!

Himiko: Oo.. That's cool.

Angie: Mhm! I was in here meditating when you two walked in, so I wanted to say hello!

Korekiyo: Meditating?

Angie: To be a true aikido master, you must be powerful in both mind and body! Having too much of one or the other isn't good, if you're too mindfully powerful then you won't be able to physically protect anybody, but if you're too physically powerful then you won't be able to mentally protect anybody. Does that make sense?

Korekiyo: Hmm, that's quite good advice. You always need to be prepared to protect and take care no matter what, taking care of both aspects of a person is important. I've felt similarly when taking care of children.

Angie: Yes yes you get it!

Himiko: Nyeh.. It's good and all but I don't think I'm either.. Exercising is a pain and I'm kinda slow.

Angie: Well not everyone can have balance, that's the wonder in people, some may be more mentally powerful, some more physically powerful, and some neither of all. But what matters is being the best version of you!

Himiko: Hm.. I guess so.

For some reason Angie felt familiar to me.. Like somebody I've met before, it was nice but also sad.. But I don't remember meeting anybody who looks or acts like Angie, nor anybody who practices aikido.. Meh, I'll probably remember in the middle of the night and feel all embarrassed that I didn't remember.

When I paid attention to our conversation again Kiyo had already introduced the both of us to Angie.

Korekiyo: Say, Angie, you mentioned the books being modern..

Angie: Mhm!! I was told by somebody else that all the books aren't actually that old! They're somewhere between the 80’s to current day, but not as ancient as they appear to be!

Himiko: They look like they've been rebinded.. I've rebinded a few manga and it's pretty tricky so.. It's impressive that all of them are like that.

Korekiyo: Hmm how interesting, when did they find the time to do all this.

Angie: The same time that it took for them to kidnap 16 people I suppose!

Himiko: Hehe.. Yeah.

Korekiyo: Hm, I wonder what types of books they have.. We'll have to explore together sometime.

Himiko: Ooh yeah.. Maybe I can find some manga to show you!

Korekiyo: That would be wonderful.

Angie: Oh? You're both leaving already?

Angie: Well I did need to continue my mediation.. Bye-onara!

We waved our goodbyes and left the library, we quickly made our way into another room. It had this kinda retro look with some old school gaming cabinets in it, it looked like a gaming room you'd remember going to as a child and see liminal photos of it years later.

It would be nice if it wasn't for the cursing girl kicking an old dancing game machine.

???: Come on- Work you stupid goddamn piece of shit!!

Himiko: Uh.. You okay?

???: The hell you want!? Can you see I'm fucking busy?

Despite how mean she is, she's actually really pretty.. She had a pink dress that showed off a little too much of her cleavage, poofy off the shoulder sleeves and gloves, along with fishnets and heels. She had a corset on that looked like a piano, matching with her piano hairpiece and the bottom part of her dress which vaguely looked like piano eyes with musical notes. She also had a choker with a chain of a beam note, and earrings of an eighth note… She makes it hard to speculate on her talent when she wears it so openly.

Himiko: Do you need any help?

???: Pfft- that stupid inventor boy already offered but I said no way! I can do it on my own, if I just kick the living shit outta it it'll work!!

Korekiyo: I… don't think that's how that works.

???: Oh shut it vampire! Who the hell are you two anyways!?

Korekiyo: I am Korekiyo Shinguji, Child Caregiver. And this is Himiko Yumeno, Cosplayer.

The introductions feel like they're getting simpler and simpler. Don't blame him tho.

???: Cosplay..? You mean they actually accepted some low life fad like that!?

Himiko: H-Hey!! Cosplay is not a “low life fad!”

???: Yes it fucking is! It's just like shitty art of fake people and music sung by hack bots! You'll never hold a candle to REAL art so why even try?

Himiko: Cosplay is for fun!! It's the personal expression of the wearer.. It's a way to show love towards a character you enjoy and really embody them

???: BORINGGGG! Like I said, that's barely even art!! It's some made up bull made by creeps on the internet to see girls' tits. Hell I'm betting you're probably fiending to see a girl's bra panties, huh?

Himiko: N-NYEH!? What would give you the impression I'm some- p-pervert??

???: All cosplayers are pervs! It's common sense!

Himiko: H-Hey just because some cosplayers are weird doesn't mean all of us are!

???: Well-

Korekiyo: Silence. Enough of your childish squabble.

???: E-eep!

Kiyo looks real upset…like a parent about to put their kid into time out.

???: I-I was just…

Korekiyo: Just introduce yourself so we can leave.

???: Uh.. Being commanded around is so unlike me.. But I guess I'll oblige.. Ahem-

???: I am the world's greatest, a betoven of my time! Remember this well because it'll be put in the history books, the Ultimate Pianist, Miu Iruma!!

She gave a little pose but neither of us were entertained like we were with Kirumi, her sour attitude from before completely ruined it. She pouted after we didn't give her much.

Miu: Geez… dead crowd huh..

Himiko: Well you did just insult me and my talent to my face.

Miu: Whateverrr, that was like forever ago now!

Himiko: … It was five seconds ago-

Korekiyo: Let's just leave her to herself, Himiko.

Himiko: Agreed..

Miu: Wha- argh- fine.. Whatever..

We hurried out of the game room, I'd rather not be in a room alone with her again.. As we left Kiyo whispered to me that the game console apparently wasn't pulled in, which made both of us laugh and lightened our mood back up.

Wandering around for a little while more, we found ourselves in an entrance hall, a big door with the word “south” above it.

Himiko: Is that the way out..? Do you think we could leave??

Korekiyo: I doubt.. It's either locked or booby trapped..

???: You can open the door and walk out but it won't get you anywhere..

The new voice startled us, not as much as Angie did but still enough to make us jump.

Turning around we were met with a warm smile, a girl with blonde hair and pink eyes who was a bit chubby, she had a old school detective outfit on, a white undershirt, gloves, a pink bowtie, a vest, some suspenders, and a plaid skirt all in this brownish-pinkish color. She had a bright pink X hairclip and a big hat that casted a shadow over her eyes. She was also holding a magnifying glass.

???: Hey there! I'm guessing you guys woke up kinda late huh?

???: I'm Kaede Akamatsu, I'm the Ultimate Detective, some people also call me a crime magnet heh..

Korekiyo: A detective? That's interesting..

Himiko: Ooh, you must've found something out about our circumstances!!

Kaede: I hate to say this but… not I haven't. But I'm still actively searching! I'm sure I'll find something soon enough!

Himiko: Awh man…

Kaede: But I can show you some of my detective skills! Tell me your names and I'll figure out your talents’ lickity split!

Korekiyo: Hmm well, I'd love to see the ultimate detective at work, I am Korekiyo Shinguji but you may call me Kiyo.

Himiko: And I'm Himiko Yumeno.

Kaede: hmm.. I'm guessing.. Kiyo's the Ultimate Child Caregiver and Himiko's the Ultimate Cosplayer!

Himiko: Woah!!

Korekiyo: How did you…

Kaede: Simple deductions really, amateur detective stuff! You see, Kiyo's outfit is very comforting and comfortable, a good outfit to make yourself approachable to kids and easy to put on, and his bag makes it so he's capable of holding multiple helpful items for children such as snacks, bandages, and small toys!

Korekiyo: Kehehe… you even knew what type of items my bag held.. Impressive.

Kaede: And Himiko… the words written on your sweater. It's painfully obvious.

My cheeks burned up slightly when she said that, I looked down at my outfit and… I can't argue with her, my sweater did say cosplay on it. Plus my gloves to avoid needles pricking me, a corset for style, and jeans, chunky socks and sneakers for comfort, added with the measuring tape I had around my shoulders and the sewing needle in my hair… yeah I do look like a cosplayer.

Himiko: Hehe.. I guess you're right. It's kinda obvious.

Korekiyo: Hm yes… it's like you're hiding something with an obvious cover up.

Kiyo gave me a wink which made both of us giggle, Kaede gave us a weird look then a nervous smile.

Kaede: Geez we've only been here for a few hours and you two already have an inside joke… welp, friendships blossom in the strangest places I guess. You two should venture outside, there's a good amount of people out there! If you need me I'll be poking around here for a while.

Himiko: Okie dokie, buh-bye Kaede!

Korekiyo: Take care.

Kaede: You too!

Kaede turned away from us, bending down to search the area with her magnifying glass. I gave her a wave bye though she couldn't see me, then turned toward the door.

Putting my hand on the doorknob I got hit with so much anxiety… I was scared to find out what was behind this door, I know it's kinda irrational but.. I can't help myself. What did Kaede mean by “it won't get you anywhere”? So many questions but I feel like I can't move…

Kiyo placed a hand on my shoulder, as I looked up at him he gave me a reassuring smile. I smiled back and nodded, taking in a deep breath as I pushed the door open. We walked outside together, I took in the sights of the outside.. Green grass, a nice breeze, comforting sunlight..

I looked at Kiyo to tell him something but I saw him staring straight up at the sky, his eyes widened and I could tell his mouth was wide open. I slowly followed his eyes to look up towards the sky..

I quickly shared his expression…

… a giant birdcage hovered over us, keeping us trapped inside.

Chapter Text

Himiko: What the…

I didn't really know what to say. It was so imposing, looming over us like a barrier, as if daring us to approach it. No matter where you looked it was there, we were undoubtedly trapped inside with no ways of escape.

Korekiyo: But… How..?

Himiko: What's going on…

???: Don't even try asking questions, you won't get any answers.

We were guided away from our shock by the voice, looking down we were met with two new people. The boy with purple hair- seemingly the one who just spoke to us- wore white overalls with a belt on his midsection, a bright purple shirt, boots and gloves both of which had what looked to be oil stains. He had a checkered bandana pulled over his mouth and goggles in his eyes that had mouse ears on them.

He was looking at something but he quickly switched his attention to us, pulling his bandana down and goggles up, flashing us a smile.

???: I've already asked those weird bear freaks about it but they didn't really answer with much, just calling it “The End Wall” and dancing around my questions, little shits.

???: I suppose it makes sense, they want to keep the mystique of our situation in tact.

I glanced over at the other person, a girl wearing a brown suit top, blue bowtie, long gloves, a layered skirt similar to Kiyo's but with two layers instead of three, along with big combat boots. Her hair was tied but into a high ponytail and she had silver glasses.

???: Bleh, but we're already here! Wouldn't it kill for him to be a little less mysterious. But anyways, relating to what Smoogs said, don't bother asking those guys any questions. Plus I've already tested the wall and it's unbreakable, so don't even bother with it.

Smoogs?: Does throwing a rock really count as “testing”?

???: Yuh-da! Of course it does, dirt freak.

Smoogs: I am not a dirt freak! That would be archeology. I specialize in anthropology! Don't tell me you forgot…

??: Nee-heehee!! Of course I didn't forget, I'm just messing with ya! I'm offended you even suggested that, I have a pretty damn good memory, there's nothing I'd forget.

Smoogs?: Well you did forget our two new friends Kichi…

Kichi?: Oh no I was actively ignoring them.

Himiko: Hey!!

Kichi?: Nee-heehee just kidding! Wow Himiko, you're kinda gullible.

Himiko: No I'm- Wait- h-how did you know my name??

Kichi?: Hm? Oh Smoogs overheard you guys conversation with Kaede and said you'd probably be coming by!

Smoogs?: K-Kichi! That makes me sound like an eavesdropping weirdo!

Kichi?: Well, aren't you?

Smoogs?: No!!

Korekiyo: Kehehe.. You two bicker like children..

Himiko: Yeah, are you guys siblings or somethin’?

Kichi?: Pfft, Nope! But I see where you're coming from.

Smoogs?: Mhm, our talents are complete opposites of each other, it's classic for stories to have siblings that are different in many ways. Plus already being completely okay with calling each other cute and silly nicknames when you just met is a little strange.. Oh that reminds me, we haven't even introduced ourselves!!

Kichi?: Do we gotta do introductions? I mean, I'd be surprised if they didn't recognize me!!

Himiko: Uh.. I don't recognize you.

Korekiyo: Me neither.

Kichi?: Wha- HEY!!! So mean…

Smoogs?: Well I suppose that's what you get for acting like everyone should know you hehe..

Smoogs?: Anyhow! My name is Tsumugi Shirogane, I'm the Ultimate Anthropologist. I enjoy all things cultural and historical, hehe isn't that surprising for a plain girl like me?

Himiko: My momma's real into cultural stuff.. But I wouldn't call you “Plain” Tsumugi.

Tsumugi: Thank you but I really am quite plain, I mean my anthropology knowledge is all I'm really good for! So I'm doomed if I ever get memory loss.

Himiko: That's… pretty depressing..

Tsumugi: I suppose that's just how life is sometimes.

Korekiyo: I don't know much about anthropology, but I'm sure your memorization of it is quite impressive. I usually forget most things after a museum visit since I'm so busy with the children…

Tsumugi: Oh perfect! I could teach you some stuff!! Like- did you know the reason the number four is known as being unlucky? Well it's because it's pronounced very similarly to the word for “death”, and people began getting superstitious about it. Isn't it fascinating how a simple pronunciation can cause so much fear? Humans are quite interesting with how they relate so much importance to such menial things, and every culture has such a thing! Similarly how all walks of life have similar ways of producing art, music, writings. It reminds me how different cultures or societies have different views on morality and-

Kichi?: Okay Ms. Blabbermouth, slow down a little.

Tsumugi: .. Sorry, I just got so excited to share..

Korekiyo: Well, I'd be delighted to learn more about it some other time, it's always nice to learn new things.

Tsumugi: Oh yes that sounds wonderful!!

Kichi?: Ahem?

Tsumugi: Oops, sorry Kichi I completely forgot your introduction…

Kichi?: Nee-heehee! Smoogs you can get a bit airhead at times huh?

Kichi?: Well then, feast your eyes on the brilliant boy genius, Ultimate Inventor, Kokichi Ouma!

Himiko: Now that you say your name… I think I've heard of you. You made that one sun powered toaster right?

Kokichi: Yep yep!! That was one of my first inventions so it's not THAT impressive nowadays, I've made a buncha cooler stuff since then.

Kokichi: Hey hey since you two are here.. Come take a look at these bad boys!!

Kokichi gestured to something on the ground, looking down we saw… two robots? One looking more humanoid with the other looking similar to those monokubs we saw.

Himiko: Huh?

Korekiyo: What are those doing here..

Kokichi: Dunno! They were here when we woke up here, I wanted to tear ‘em apart for spare parts but Smoogs won't let me!!

Tsumugi: We don't know if they're fully functional still! Maybe they need some time to wake up.

Kokichi: *Sigh* alright but it's your fault we don't get a cool laser to try and break that wall.

Tsumugi: Hmm I thought you said it was indescribable?

Kokichi: Well it's unbreakable with what we have right now!!

Kokichi: Anywho, I'm gonna keep observing these two bots to see if they work, see ya guys!

Tsumugi: And I'll keep Kichi from scrapping them too soon. Goodbye you both.

✿Friendship Fragment Obtained!

We said our goodbyes but I was more interested in those robots.. Where did they come from? What were they doing there?? Did they have any relation to the people who brought us here, I mean, one of them did look strikingly like those Monokubs just with a pure black side. And the more human looking robot seems a little broken down, like he had a few missing pieces, it's weird.. Meh, whatever, we ask questions about it later, maybe when Kokichi eventually tears them apart.

But for now we should still focus on introductions and ask questions later. The next person we found was some guy leaning on some statue who was continuously shuffling a deck of cards. He had a tophat with a rose, a fancy wavey suit with a gradient and gold accents, he had a big bow tie and two belts on. He was murmuring something to himself before he noticed us and perked up.

???: HEY! You both!

Himiko: Nyeh?

Korekiyo: … Hello?

He quickly got in front of us, pulling his cards in our faces.

???: Pick a card!

Me and Kiyo looked at each other for a moment before each grabbing a card. I took a good long look before he put his hand back out to get them back. When we handed them over he reshuffled them into the deck a few times, then looked back into the deck flipping through it for a moment before pulling out two cards and shoving the deck into his jacket. He presented the two cards face down before slowly flipping them over.

The one that was held out to Kiyo was a queen of diamonds and mine a ace of spades.

???: Are these your cards?

Himiko: Yeah!!

Korekiyo: Yes.. Impressive.

???: Haha! Good to know our situation hasn't spit out my flame! I've been dying to do some tricks but everyone else declined!

Himiko: That was really cool tho! I love magic tricks!

Korekiyo: I agree, it's been awhile since I've been a part of one.

???: Great! Everyone needs a little magic in their lives! Speaking of which…

???: I am Kaito Momota, Master of Illusions! Even crying children cheer at the sight of the Ultimate Magician.

Himiko: Ooh that makes sense! What other types of tricks do you know?

Kaito: Well most of the easy ones, like disappearing coins, spoon bending, all that sorta stuff. But I'm pretty damn good at any trick! Well.. Most of ‘em.

Himiko: Wowie, that's so cool.. A real magician. I've only ever seen phoney birthday magicians.

Kaito: Well I'm the real deal! I can show you more tricks eventually, though I'd need some more materials to do more impressive stuff.

Kaito: But soon enough I'll put on a great show just you wait!

Himiko: I'm looking forward to it! I'm Himiko, Ultimate Cosplayer. This is Kiyo, he's the Ultimate Child Caregiver.

Kaito: Great to meet you both, I'd love to chat some more but I gotta keep practicing!

Korekiyo: Oh? What are you practicing?

Kaito: Everything! Gotta keep your skills sharp, you never know when you need them!

Korekiyo: Hm..

Himiko: I get that, if I don't sew for too long it's like I completely forget I've ever sewn in my life.

Kaito: Yeah you get me!

He playfully ruffled my hair, I stuck my tongue out at him and blew a raspberry. Kaito and Kiyo both laughed at my messed up hair, what a pain…

✿Friendship Fragment Obtained!

Walking away from Kaito we found ourselves wandering into another building with the word “Dormitory” in front of it and… yeah it looked like a dormitory. With smaller rooms with pixel art work of us on the doors.

Korekiyo: I wonder why they didn't just put our names.

Himiko: No idea.. Style maybe?

Kiyo merely shrugged at my suggestion, to be fair it is kinda far-fetched. Nevertheless there was a girl pretending to hit the air. She had thick long duel braids with a BIG light blue bow on the back of her head, a choker with a bell on it, a green dress with a flower on it and a blue jacket, she had visible shorts and tennis shoes.

???: HAIII-YAH!

Himiko: Nyeh..?

Korekiyo: Why on earth are you being so loud?

???: To bring up my energy!!

Himiko: .. Why?

???: Because I need to be ready for my next game at all times! You never know when you gotta pick up a racket!

Korekiyo: A racket? So then I'm guessing your a… ?

???: Oh right! I'm Tenko Chabashira, the Ultimate Tennis Pro!

Himiko: Tennis? I don't know much about that kinda stuff…

Korekiyo: You don't seem to know a lot about most physical activities.

Himiko: H-hey!! Despite my lack of knowledge.. Your outfit is pretty cute.

Tenko: A-ah- My outfit isn't cute!! It's old and dirty- I've stained it multiple times and I haven't washed this jacket in a week!!

Himiko: .. Well it's still cute.

Korekiyo: You should really wash that jacket of yours.

Tenko: E-eep- Geez being complimented and then commanded by some girls wasn't something I was expecting to happen after being kidnapped..

Himiko: … Huh?

Korekiyo: Excuse me?

Tenko: Sorry, was that weird?? I-It's just.. It's so rare for me to interact with cute girls, I'm usually surrounded by horrible boys!! You get me right?

Korekiyo: Understandable but.. I'm not a woman. I'm just a man in a skirt.

Himiko: Yeah.. I mean I am cute but I'm not exactly a girl, nor a boy, I'm kinda neither.

Tenko: .. Oh.

Tenko: Well that's okay Himiko! As long as you're not a horrible boy then you're still a cutie to me! I uh- I gotta go!

Tenko sped off out of the dorms, I don't blame her tho, she's probably really embarrassed…

✿Friendship Fragment Obtained!

Korekiyo: I'm surprised she didn't insult me considering her whole “horrible boy mindset”.

Himiko: Hm, well you're not mean or nothin so I don't see the reason…

Korekiyo: I suppose you're right… Shame though, we didn't get to tell her our names.

Himiko: We can always tell her later, or maybe those weird phone-tablet thingys can for us.

Kiyo nodded and we left the dorms walking down some stairs in a big courtyard looking area. There was this beautiful looking building in front of us but there was somebody we needed to talk to first. Walking down the stairway we found a guy kneeling down in front of the grass concentrating on something. He had this big sun hat with a yellow bow on, with a green vest with a pretty gold chain overtop a white shirt, dark green jeans with two pouches on his legs similar to Kirumi, he also had some fingerless gloves. The most obvious thing was his butterfly net slung over his shoulder that looked massive compared to his small size.

We stood behind him for a moment, I was trying to figure out what he was looking for. He eventually looked up at us.

???: .. Hey.

Himiko: Oh hi..sorry we were just staring at you.

???: Nah it's cool. I was just looking around for somethin’..

Korekiyo: What exactly?

???: Bugs.

Korekiyo: … bugs?

???: Yep. Despite all the greenery, I haven't found a single one.

Himiko: That seems… impossible.

???: I thought so too but.. Nope, nothin’. Not even a measly beetle or ant. It's crazy, you'd think they'd need somethin’ to keep all this greenery alive and this good looking.

Korekiyo: I agree, it is quite suspicious.

Himiko: At least we don't gotta deal with mosquitos.

???: Mosquitoes are more useful than you think they are, they're not just “annoying things that suck your blood” even if they seem that way.

???: Oh I haven't introduced myself, name's Ryoma Hoshi though most people just know me by my title as the Ultimate Entomologist.

Ryoma: You guys?

Korekiyo: I'm Korekiyo, Ultimate Child Caregiver, she's Himiko, Ultimate Cosplayer.

Ryoma: Great to meet ya kids.

Korekiyo: “kids”? But we're the same age are we not?

Ryoma: .. Heh. Guess you're right, I just have an old soul I guess, you need to have one after all I've been through.

Korekiyo: Ah I understand you completely.. I too sometimes feel more of an adult than my actual age..

Ryoma: At least I got something in common with somebody… I'm going to go back to looking for bugs, I'll see you kids around.

✿Friendship Fragment Obtained!

We said our goodbyes to Ryoma and headed towards the pretty building in front of us, heading inside we saw it was in much better shape than the school. It was filled with beautiful flowers and pillars with a waterfall in the middle, the water looked so drinkable…

… and standing in front were two people that looked…So familiar..

I completely froze, staring at them… I don't know why but I felt like I'd seen them before, and not just in the way you saw somebody on TV or in a restaurant or something, more like I was running into old friends from middle school. Not even just that… like I'd seen them just a few hours ago.. That's weird. I've never met these people so why am I feeling this way?

Korekiyo: Himiko..?

Kiyo's voice snapped me back to reality, I blinked for a second before smacking my cheeks to fully bring me back.

Himiko: Sorry…

I feel Kiyo's smile underneath his mask before walking towards those two.. It took a second for my feet to follow him, the two were talking as we walked up but paused their conversation to look at us.

One was a boy who looked… honestly very normal. He had a regular dark blue hat on, a striped blue undershirt that had sleeves that were a tad longer than usual with a normal shirt over that one, he also had regular blue jeans and tennis shoes. His eyes looked tired with obvious eye bags.

The girl next to him on the contrary looks spectacular, her hair was tied into space buns with some more hair reaching a bit past her shoulders. She had a purple jacket on with some gold detailing, a star belt that had some foil looking stuff on top of her yellow skirt, her boots were chunky and an off white color.

“Blue Boy”: Oh, hey there!

“Star Girl”: … hi.

“Blue Boy”: I'm guessing you're ultimate students too?

Korekiyo: Yes, I'm Korekiyo, Ultimate Child Caregiver and-

Himiko: H-Himiko! Himiko Yumeno Ultimate- uh- Cosplayer!

I don't know why I blurted that out especially so awkwardly… the two looked at me for a second before the boy laughed a little.

“Blue Boy”: It's good to meet you guys, I'm Shuichi Saihara. Hope we can get along.

The girl stayed quiet before Shuichi lightly nudged her.

Shuichi: Are you not gonna introduce yourself?

“Star Girl”: .. Fine. Maki Harukawa, Ultimate Astronaut.

Korekiyo: Astronaut? But I thought you had to be at least eighteen to be an astronaut with all the credentials involved.

Maki: Well if you must know, I used some insider influence to get in. But don't take that as me not knowing what I'm doing, I'm not an idiot.

Shuichi: I mean.. You are the ultimate after all, of course you know what you're doing.

Himiko: Speaking of ultimates.. Shuichi you didn't say yours, is it super embarrassing or somethin’?

Shuichi: Ah well- uhm.. This is gonna sound super weird but I… I don't remember my talent.

Himiko: .. H-huh!?

Korekiyo: How..?

Shuichi: I don't know.. Kaede suggests that maybe it has something to do with our amnesia, but I don't see how that makes me forget my talent full stop.

Maki: Yeah, it's weird. I've been trying to help him jog his memory but nothing's working.

Himiko: Maybe your talent is something super super special!!

Shuichi: Hm.. Maybe. Speaking of which, I gotta go find Kaede again. I promised to find her after meeting everyone.. Bye.

✿Friendship Fragments Obtained

Korekiyo: Take care, Shuichi. Himiko we should be off as well.

I nodded as Kiyo and Shuichi both started walking away, but before I could follow I felt a hand on my shoulder.

Maki: Hey.

Himiko: Nyeh?

Maki: .. Have we met somewhere before? When I first saw you I felt like we'd met before…

Himiko: I don't think so but.. I had the same feeling seeing you and Shuichi!

Maki: … Weird. That doesn't feel like just a coincidence.

Himiko: Yeah… I wonder why we feel that way.

Maki: Hm.. I've never had a friend my age, so it's not like you could look like somebody I used to know, nor that you could've been a classmate before.

Himiko: Same.. I've been to an all girls school my whole life, so there's little chance I could've met Shuichi before.

Maki: This is.. So stran-

Our conversation was cut off by two unknown voices… screaming at each other.

???: WHAT THE FUCK IS WRONG WITH YOU!?

???: WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME!?!? YOU'RE THE ONE ACTING ALL INNOCENT WHEN I KNOW EXACTLY WHAT YOU ARE!!

???: I ALREADY SAID I.DON'T.KNOW.SHIT!

???: LIAR!

Me and Maki looked at each other for a second before we ran off, everyone was crowded around each other, in the middle there were those two robots now all up and running. The bear one was clinging to Tsumugi who was holding him, while the humanoid one was thrashing about being held back by Gonta.

“Bear”: I'M NOT A FUCKING LIAR!! WHY WOULD I LIE ABOUT THAT!?!?

“Humanoid”: HAVE YOU MET YOURSELF!? GONTA LET GO OF ME AND LET ME SMASH HIM TO BITS!!!

“Bear”: EEK!! S-SAVE ME BLUE GIRL!!

“Humanoid”: OH OF COUUURSE YOU'D CLING TO HER!

Gonta: P-Please friends! Don't fight like this!!

Kokichi: Nah, I wanna see that bot crushed! I need its parts after all..

Miu: Ugh! Why'd you say that like a fucking creep!?

Tenko: Horrible boy stop being weird to the robot!!

Kokichi: I'm literally so normal… you're so meannnn..

Kaede: E-Everyone calm down! Can we please just be calm

“Humanoid”: NO! THIS THINGS A DANGER TO ALL OF US!!!

Kaito: I'm gonna be honest you're kinda freaking me out more..

Rantaro: Agreed. Your screaming is not helping.

Angie: You're not getting anywhere acting out like this!

“Humanoid”: I'm not acting out- I'm warning you guys!!!

“Bear”: What are you warning them about, your crazy attitude pupupu~

“Humanoid”: SHUT UP!

Ryoma: Kid.. Why don't you just explain yourself? Normally?

“Humanoid”: This thing’s the reason we're here!! He's the one behind this kidnapping scheme!

“Bear”: W-Well I'm not behind this! I told you I have no clue what's going on, I'm just as clueless as you!!

“Humanoid”: STOP LYING!!

“Bear”: I'M NOT GODDAMN YOU ARE STUBBORN!!!

Maki: How can we even trust either of you?

Korekiyo: Agreed, how can we be certain you're not working together and just trying to trick us?

‘“Humanoid”: You're.. Just gonna have to take my word I guess- but I promise I have no relation to that thing!!!

“Bear”: meh meh and you call me a liar…

Kirumi: Well you deny your suspicious behavior, especially after you called Gonna by his name when nobody mentioned it.

“Humanoid”: ...

Gonta: That's right- how did bot know Gonta’s name?

“Humanoid”: T- The monopad!

Tsumugi: .. The what?

“Humanoid”: The monopad!! Everyone got one when they woke up right? I found everyone's name there-

The robot slipped his hand from Gonta's grasp just long enough to pull it out, waving it towards all of us.

“Humanoid”: See! I'm- I'm one of your classmates I promise!

Kaede: Well that does look like what Shuichi and I found in our pockets.. Well then, introduce yourself! It'd make you a bit more trust worthy.

“Humanoid”: Right- right!! I am K1-B0- but I'm also called Kiibo, I'm the Ultimate Robot! An entertainment robot more specifically-

Kiibo: I woke up before anybody but a combination of my stress and generally already lacking power I passed out here, s-see! My monopad has a crack as proof.

Kokichi: Huh.. He's right. I guess he's trust worthy..

Tsumugi: .. Does that mean I'm holding our captor in my arms?

Kaito: B-Break it!!

Angie: Nyahaha! I can help you destroy it!!

“Bear”: WAIT WAIT WAIT WAIT!!!!!! I'M INNOCENT I SWEAR! K-Kiibo's anger is wrongfully directed at me!!

Kiibo: Gonta let me go so I can destroy him MYSELF!!

Gonta: N-now Mr. Kiibo don't do anything rash..

“Bear”: I promise- I'm uh- also a classmate of yours!!

Himiko: … I don't believe that.

Tenko: Agreed! You look just like those bear cubs we saw!

“Bear”: Well haha.. We must come from the same production place huh? I'm just Monokuma, I'm the uh- Ulllll-timate Mascot! Yep that's right! No relation to those bear cubs!!!

Kokichi: … Smoogs just break that thing already.

Tsumugi: Hm, okay!

Monokuma: WAIT NO NO NO PLEASE DON'T!!!-

As Tsumugi lifted Monokuma into the air, his arms and legs flailing about trying to escape suddenly-

*BING BONG DING DONG*

The chime of a bell got us all distracted, a nearby monitor buzzing to life. We all shuffled over expecting to see those Monokubs but instead…A dimly lit room was shown, the silhouette of a person in clear view but I could barely make out. The only thing I could see was the movement of a wine glass and…Their eyes. One blue the other green the eyes were half lidded, glowing so we could see them, they seemed relaxed but also terrifying…

???: Hello my darlings!~ goodness I thought those robots would never wake up, but since you're all wide awake now, please make your way to the gymnasium for me! I'll see you all there~

*BTZZ*

Kiibo: … who the…

Monokuma: … fuck was that???

Everyone stood there, occasionally glancing at each other. We didn't think this was real, and Kiibo and Monokuma were right, who was that??? Speaking of them- they were the first to leave, Monokuma wiggling out of Tsumugi’s arms and dashing inside the school, Kiibo quickly followed elbowing Gonta to make him let go and running after the bear.

Kaede: .. We should listen to that announcement, who knows what they could do…

After some murmuring and nodding, we all headed off in a group. I stayed close to Kiyo. I grabbed his wrist carefully which he shifted for us to be properly holding hands. He was the only person I felt safe with right now…

Following Kaede we got to the gym, Kiibo and Monokuma were already there, Monokuma was trying to climb onto the stage muttering curses as Kiibo watched. Kiibo was holding himself, standing farther away like he was trying to get into a corner without actually going into one.

Kirumi: Well.. We're all here now.

Kaito: Geez I'm pretty scared.. Who knows what'll happen!!!

Korekiyo: It can't be that horrible surely..

Tsumugi: I dunno, that person we saw did seem pretty intimidating…

Himiko: Speaking of which.. Where are they?

Tenko: I'm wondering that too, and those freaky little cub things!

Korekiyo: I wouldn't call them freaky..

Tenko: Oh shut it! They're freaky and that's that! And if they show up I'm gonna beat them up!!

Angie: No need to hop to violence so quickly, Tenko!

Monotaro: Yeah! That wouldn't be good whatsoever!

As if we summoned them, the Monokubs appeared, popping up on stage which caused Monokuma to fall and quickly skedaddle off to Kiibo clinging to his leg.

Kiibo: H-hey! Get off!! Will punt you-

Monokubs: RISE AND SHINE URSINE!

Monophanie: Wow it's so nice seeing everyone all gathered together!

Monosuke: Yep all seventeen just like mama said!... Wait- where's the seventeenth!? I only see sixteen!!

Monotaro: Oh no! Mama's gonna be really mad if we lost one of her guests so quickly!!!

Monodam: OVER-THERE.

Monodam pointed towards Monokuma.

Monotaro: … WHAAAAT!!

Monokid: HOLY SHIT! WE GOT A DOPPELGANGER!!!

Monophanie: Maybe we should rip his head off like what doppelgangers deserve tee-hee~

Monosuke: Woah woah Monophanie! No need to jump to violence so quickly!!

Monophanie: Awh.. I never get to have any fun… boohoho..

Monotaro: Anyways! We all gathered you here for one thing! And it's for-

Monokid: HEY HEY DIRTBAG! That's mama's job alright!!

Monotaro: Oh yeah sorry!.. Where is she anyways?

Monophanie: Hopefully she didn't get lost!!

Monosuke: Oh please, there's no way mama could get lost!

Shuichi: Uh.. Could I ask? Who's.. “Mama”?

Kaede: Is she the person we saw on the monitor?

???: Right you are my sweet Kaede! So observant for the Ultimate Detective~

The voice from the monitor bounced around the room, everyone glanced around the room to find where it came from when suddenly-

A glitchy streak came from the middle of the stage, flying upwards until crashing down into the stage turning into a puff of smoke which faded to show a elegant woman, her hair into a high ponytail, wearing a pair of bunny ears one having a crown around it, a bowtie with a bunny character in the middle, a sleeveless suit top and a fancy white shirt both unbuttoned to show cleavage, a pencil skirt with a small overpiece, and finally long heeled boots. Her eyes were no longer visible, her body was somewhat glitchy and different shades of green.

???: My my it's wonderful to meet you sweethearts in person!!

Kiibo: H-Huh..?

Monokuma: Who the hell are you!?

???: Oh yes of course! I am your lovely lady of the hour, the hostess with the mostest- Miss Hostess!!

Rantaro: I'm guessing you're the one behind all this?

Miss Hostess: Yes! Well- it's not all my doing, I had the help of my darling babies~

Monotaro: Yep yep! We did everything you told us to mama!

Monophanie: Yeah!! We've been very good for you!

Miss Hostess: Of course my dears, you'll get your rewards later but for now we should tell our dear guests why they're gathered here today!

Miss Hostess: You see you're all gathered here for a very very special reason… you all are gonna love it!~

Korekiyo: I don't trust your tone..

Miss Hostess: Tee-Hee~ Oh Shinguji, no need to be so suspicious.

Miss Hostess: You're all here for…

MH & Monokubs: A KILLING GAME!!

…

… what?

Tsumugi: A.. Killing game?

Shuichi: What do you mean by that?

Monokid: You bitches slow or something, it's a killing game!!!

Monosuke: It's in the name.

Kaito: This- this has to be a joke-

Miu: Y-yeah!! What type of lunatic would come up with something like this!?

Monophanie: Hey mama's no lunatic!!

Monotaro: Yeah! You little- meanie!!

Monophanie: GASP! TARO!

Miss Hostess: Goodness… Of course none of you would understand, but that's no matter. I'm the headmaster, I can do whatever I please.

Kaede: The headmaster..?

Kokichi: This has gotta be a pank or some bullshit!!!

Ryoma: Hate to break it to you but… This seems a little too real to be a prank.

Miss Hostess: Hoshi is correct, this is no prank! I'm for realsies!!

Kirumi: Since we're forced to play I must ask, how does this “killing game” work exactly?

Miss Hostess: Well it's simple! You and your fellow ultimates will stay here during your duration here, you will have motives and all the time you want to kill somebody, but it's not just about killing it's also about the- oh I shouldn't spoil too much really, I'll leave that for when it happens, call it a surprise of sorts!

Gonta: And if we don't participate?

Miss Hostess: .. Hm?

Gonta: Well.. Just because we are all here doesn't mean we'll participate, we could easily live here peacefully since we have everything we'd ever need.

Rantaro: Gonta's right, we could easily spend the rest of our days until were rescued.

Miss Hostess: Nobody's coming for you.

Her voice suddenly got darker, a complete shift from her bubbly voice from before.

Shuichi: .. What?

Kaede: That's.. Impossible! We're ultimates! Some of us are really important people, there's got to be plenty of people looking for us!

Miss Hostess: Don't be silly. Nobody will be looking for you, you're nobody's now.

Kokichi: H-Hey my sponsor's would never let me go missing!!

Miu: Yeah same here!

Gonta: G-Gonta's family is very powerful.. Gonta going missing would be all over the news!

Kaede: Yeah! A master detective like me… s-surely people would come looking!

Miss Hostess: You really think that? You're all just meaningless sacks of meat now, your only good is for this game. Nobody will find you, and nobody will care that you're gone. Truthfully I'm doing you all a favor.

Himiko: B-but-

Monokuma: Don't fight her.

Himiko: Nyeh..?

Monokuma: That's what she wants, to get you all riled up and depressed so you're more likely to fall into her demands to kill. It's better to just ignore her.

Miss Hostess: ....

Miss Hostess: Tee-Hee!~ you're smarter than you look Kuma!

Miss Hostess: Don't worry, I'll make you kids break eventually! It's my job after all. Well let me officially say…

Miss Hostess: THIS DRAMA FILLED, HEART-POUNDING KILLING SCHOOL SEMESTER BEGINS RIGHT HERE AND NOW!

Miss Hostess: Use any method you wish- bludgeoning, strangulation, stabbing! Feeling frisky? How about drowning? Feeling dangerous? How about crushing them until there is nothing but a speck of blood? Poison, burn, electrocute, doesn't matter! You're all potential killers, go full on out! Have fun with all this bloodshed, what'll happen next, who will die next? Oh all this mystery is just so enticing!~

Tenko: You're.. You're talking like this is some sorta game!?

Tsumugi: Treating our lives like they're just some toys you can play with.. That's absolutely cruel!!

Shuichi: Y-yeah! This game is ridiculous-

Miu: This can't be real.. Somebody pinch me!!

My head was swirling… A killing game? Our lives are just being used like this… it's crazy. I can't do anything, I can't say anything, I can provide no push back or comfort, all I can do is stand frozen like a statue while everyone continues to protest.

Kaede: We won't play your stupid game! We'll find a way out, we'll find a way to stop you and this cruel game and return home, mark my words I won't stop fighting until we're free!

Angie: I agree, we won't let you get your way!

Gonta: Yes, Gonta will protect friends!

Miss Hostess: Aww so cute.. You're fighting sooo hard but it's all fruitless.. You'll play my game, it's enviable!

Miss Hostess: No matter how hard you fight, you'll eventually crumble.. I always get what I want.

Miss Hostess: Hehe.. Heheehe.. AHAHAAHAHAHAHAHAAAAA~

We all stood there dumbfounded, Miss Hostess’ manic laughter that eventually the Monokubs joined in, their cacophony of laughter echoed in the gym and made my ears ring.

Everything about this situation… it's messed up, it's horrible. But it's our new reality, a twisted, sadistic reality we were forced into. This Killing Game, we're trapped in here for it, no sign of escaping, no sign of help ever arriving…

We're stuck. And there's no way of ever getting out unless we kill or die, a possibly endless cycle until either she's had enough or there's only a few of us standing.

… oh god. I'm going to die here.

PROLOGUE:

PROGRAM RESTART - HELLO WORLD!

COMPLETE.

17 / 17 Students remain.

Present Obtained!

Bunny Pin

“Proof that you cleared the Prologue. It's a cute pin of a white and pink bunny rabbit, despite that it gives you the absolute feeling of dread.”