Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

"It's my duty as a genius inventor! S- so I can't afford to die here-" Miu said.

Yes, Miu can't afford to die here. She didn't want to be here anymore.

So many murders, execution and then... as if that wasn't hell enough, the outside world has some 'mankind deserves damnation' bullshit?!

She totally needed to get out of here. Miu refused to believe the outside world was in that much of a wreck. And even if it was, it was because Miu wasn't there making the best invention that will help mankind.

Yeah that was it.

Or maybe it was because she wanted to be alive... so many people have died and been executed. Whose to say she won't be next? Hell no way was she going to be some victim. She wasn't going to get killed right in this hellhole.

Everything was under control. She knew this VR world like the back of her hand. Kokichi was alone and defenseless right now.

And when the trial comes, she could bullshit her way out without that damn gremlin roasting her and making her lose her composure.

Sure there was the detective, but Kokichi was much more of a threat. The one that could make her lips looser and also someone who she actually had a bond with, as she spent some time with the brat with some inventions.

... It was easier to lure him than the detective because Kokichi was actually closer to her than Shuichi was although the detective did spend a bit of time with her.

... This was a betrayal, but they were in a killing game. It was betray or be betrayed. And it's like... Kokichi expected it. He was just standing there, looking at Miu's eyes, searching her soul.

... No, she can't give in. Just...

"I'm sorry!"

She swung the hammer down to Kokichi's head but was stopped just short when she was suddenly pulled back by something, the hammer dropped and she was fingering whatever was at her neck... choking her?!

... Toilet paper? And as Miu's eyes tried to spot the aggressor, she was surprised to see it was... Gonta?! That big lug who always wanted to protect everyone... was killing her?!?!

"S- sorry! Gonta so sorry!" And Miu could see as spots began to dance in her eyes that he was sorry. And then she looked at Kokichi who grinned maliciously as he made it to the door.

'Motherfucker. He realised, not at the moment. He fucking knew... knew from the beginning,' Miu thought derisively. No wonder he didn't put up any defense although it would have been futile...

And maybe... Kokichi found out she would have safety measures put against Kokichi so he can't resist her, so... he got Gonta to help her. Considering his naivete and gullibility, it shouldn't be hard.

'But if that shitty gremlin think I will be killed that easily, he has another fucking thing coming,' Miu thought as she suddenly got a phone, the same phone that she used to log out Kaito, and even with ragged breaths and the darkening spots in her eyes, she opened the phone and managed to choke out...

"Gon... ta... Goku... hara." Miu choked, and suddenly, a bright circle appeared beneath Gonta, teleporting him outta here, and the toilet paper fell to the floor, giving Miu time to breathe... fucking breathe, and it never felt so good...

Miu immediately turned around to see Kokichi already at the door, his chibi eyes widened as he suddenly sprinted out.

Hell no way was Miu letting him get away!

"Come back here, you little shit!" Miu screamed, but Kokichi just ran, and didn't even give a snarky comeback.

'Shit...' Miu thought.

She should have never underestimated that gremlin in the first place, and everything was falling apart.

Should she give up, should she come up with another plan... what the fuck should she do? She really wanted to escape, yet...

Before Miu knew it, everything fell apart, but...

Miu touched her neck, as if she could still feel the toilet paper... but it was not there, not there.

At least she was alive.

***

'Did not anticipate that,' Kokchi thought, now running toward the phone that will lead him out back to the real world... the patter of steps chasing him that could be heard behind...

Miu was going to kill him. No one would ever believe it when Kokichi would say so, because really, who would believe a liar? Truth, he brought this upon himself, but in all seriousness, his body was made up with like, 70% lies and the rest probably Panta... so, he wasn't going to apologize for his bad reputations his lies gave him and dump him into this situation.

Also the fact that they were in a killing game, this was bound to happen. Even if he wasn't an asshole, there was no guarantee of survival.

But back then, at least he knew Miu was going to kill him. Should he have simply restrained her, negotiated back then? Why kill?

The answer was simply desperate. Kokichi had felt his mask cracking ever so slightly as the Killing Game progressed.

No matter what other people thought, Kokichi was human, not a machine. Human enough to feel empathy, scared... and pressured.

With each motive, murder and execution... and even when he researched, collected and explored... it wasn't enough, wasn't enough to stop the motives, the murders and the executions.

No matter what it looked like, he was just trying to get out of this game with the others. It's not like he created a bond with his classmates or anything, he just wanted to end this boring game.

... Yeah?

Kokichi finally reached the phone and quickly said his name as Miu threw the hammer at him and missed by a hairbreadth's as Kokichi finally logged out.

'What to do now...?' Kokichi thought, because he was so certain that Gonta will kill Miu as he upheld his deal with Monokuma. For... he still was indecisive about that.

Miu was still going to kill him, that was certain by the way she threw that hammer at him. And even when he logged out, he might not be safe.

Maybe... find a place to hide. He was a master of hide and seek after all.

It really would have been much easier if he just prevented Miu from killing him, but if he did that? Whose to say that Monokuma wouldn't come with a fresh motive? Whose to say that someone else won't kill? Something that can't be turned into his favor. He had to take the opportunity, even if it goes against his morals.

Sure it would be great there was no death but the game won't progress without blood spilled and he needed the game to progress to finalize his plan.

But these days, he wasn't even sure whether he wanted to do it anymore...

Kokichi immediately took off his helmet to see that everyone was still logged in, except Kaito who wasn't here and Gonta, who looked confused.

He turned to Kokichi and said, "Ah... Ouma-kun, why everyone asleep here? What happening?"

Kokichi narrowed his eyes. He can't be that stupid, right?

"Huh? Don't you remember the virtual world?" Kokichi asked, tilting his head innocently.

"What virtual world?" Gonta asked, looking so confused. Kokichi was confused as well.

Sure, Gonta was forced to log out, but surely he remembered about the virtual world, about that flashback light about the outside world... the one he asked for Monokuma to put there...

For part of his plan. A part where Kokichi had no pleasure, but was completely necessary, exactly like chess where some pieces needed to be sacrificed so as to progress forward...

But that was shot now... and before he could ask Gonta anymore questions about his confused state, Miu has now awaken as she was looking at Kokichi with furious eyes.

***

"Welp, Gonta, as much as it was fun talking to ya, I gotta jet..." Kokichi suddenly stood up from his seat to hear a crash.

Surprised, Gonta saw a bottle falling just as Kokichi stood, the contents all over the floor and the glass shattered.

This seemed to gave Miu an opportunity to reach Kokichi as she seemed to be... choking Kokichi?!?!?!

"Wait! Stop! Friends no fight!" Gonta screamed, suddenly pulling Miu away from Kokichi as Miu struggled against Gonta's grip and Kokichi began to take deep gulps of breaths.

"Let me down, you big lug!" Miu screamed, her eyes shooting venom at both him and Kokichi. Gonta didn't understand why. Did something happen?

"Good job, Gonta," Kokichi said, finally standing up and looking at Miu with a derisive smile.

Suddenly, Miu wilted and she looked at both Gonta and Kokichi in somewhat defeat.

"... So, you are going to kill me now?"

"What?!" Gonta asked, shocked, "Gonta gentleman! Gonta never hurt friends!"

For some reason, this made both Miu and Kokichi raised their eyebrows as Miu huffed, "Says the person who just choked me with toilet paper."

"What? Gonta choke you with toilet paper. Impossible. Toilet paper break easily. No such thing, and gentleman will never choke people," Gonta said earnestly.

Again, confusion was written at both Miu and Kokichi's face.

"... Gonta, what do you remember before waking up?" Kokichi asked.

"Huh? Gonta just fell asleep, and then he woke up again," Gonta said, his head tilted.

What was Kokichi talking about?

"You don't remember the virtual world?" Miu asked.

"What virtual world? Gonta not understand and what you are talking about?" Gonta asked.

"... You don't remember the secret of the outside world?" Kokichi asked.

"There's a secret to the outside world?" Gonta asked.

"You little shit, you knew where the Flashback Light was and showed it Gonta?!?!" Miu accused, to which Kokichi ignored.

"You don't remember the Killing Game Busters?" Kokichi asked.

"What Busters?" Gonta and Miu asked together, both confused.

Kokichi mumbles under his breath before he looked straight at Miu.

"OK you cum dumpster, what's wrong with Gonta?" Kokichi asked.

"The fuck do I know?" Miu snapped, "And put me down!" She snapped this at Gonta.

Gonta looked at Miu, and then to Kokichi before saying, "Gonta not sure. Gonta worried you hurt Ouma-kun."

"The fuck to that. No way am I going to do that with a witness. I'm not that stupid," Miu said, contradicting what she did in the first place, so Gonta still felt unsure...

"Don't worry, Gonta. If Iruma-chan does anything fishy, you will protect me, right?" Kokichi asked with a wide smile.

Gonta felt reassured by that and put Miu down, "Yeah, Gonta protects friends."

When Miu was finally put down, she went to Gonta's seat and checked out his VR headset, with Kokichi and Gonta bear her as she then gasped when she saw the wires.

"The dumb cuck switched the wires wrong," Miu said.

"What?" Kokichi asked, surprised as he went to see the VR headset himself.

"Yeah... look, the wire meant for memories is connected to his consciousness and vice versa. It's lucky that he didn't turn into a vegetable or something, but it doesn't mean that Gonta's off the hook," Miu said.

"What happened to Gonta?" Gonta asked, very confused right now.

Kokichi and Miu looked at each other before Miu broke the news...

"Gonta... you have a kind of... memory loss," Miu said, letting that sink in Gonta's mind.

Memory loss? Gonta didn't remember having memory loss or that was the point? And what memory did he lose?

"Memory... loss...?" Gonta asked.

"Well, somehow you forgotten that you went inside a virtual reality... another world actually!" Kokichi decided to phrase it another way after Gonta looked confused once again at the mention of 'virtual reality'.

"Gonta went to another world? Does that mean he escaped killing game? Why back again?" Gonta asked.

"It was only temporary," Miu decided to put in, "You see the others...?" She said, gesturing at the others who Gonta saw was still asleep and with some... bulky things over their heads.

"They are inside another would by those headsets, but you see, they are still in the killing game, but transported into another world anyway..." Miu tried to explain, while Gonta tried to follow.

"OK..." Gonta said, although he didn't fully understand.

"So... we went to this other world, where we were supposed to find the secret to the outside world, and... well..." Miu said, faltering.

"What?" Gonta asked.

There was an awkward silence before Kokichi said cheerfully, "Miu was going to kill me so you decided to kill Miu to protect me!"

"What? But Gonta no kill! Gonta would just stop her!" Gonta shouted, terrified.

Gonta almost... killed someone? Gonta confused...

"Wait... yeah! Why did you have to kill me? You could have just stopped me, you shitty shota!" Miu screamed.

Both Gonta and Miu were looking at Kokichi who kept a steely gaze at Miu.

"... Say something," Miu said.

"You are not the boss of me," Kokichi snapped at Miu with a childish smile, but it was strained.

"Please don't fight. Gonta sure can solve this if talk more peacefully," Gonta insisted.

Neither Kokichi nor Miu had anything to say, creating a tense silence before...

Miu was rubbing her temples as she finally said, "... this is really going to shit."

She was looking around at the others, who were at this other world as Gonta was told before looking straight to Kokichi.

"... Gonta's right. We should talk this out," Miu said.

"But... but what if you kill me? Iruma-chan already plotted my demise, what if she did it again?" Kokichi asked cheekily although his eyes narrowed at Miu. Gonta really didn't like this...

"Then, Gonta protect Ouma-kun. Gonta not know why Iruma-san want to kill, but Gonta think that we can fix this," Gonta said, because it is gentlemanly to protect friends.

"... Yeah, why don't we just talk it out?" Miu said.

Chapter Text

Miu failed, huh?

But it could be worse.

She was just surprised that neither Gonta nor Kokichi thought to arouse the others and told them about Miu's murder plot.

Now, things are... complicated.

When have they not?

After cleaning up the mess that was the shattered bottle which Gonta had no idea where it came from and Miu remained silent when it came up, they all made their way to Miu's lab.

At first, Gonta suggested his Lab as the place to talk, but the idea was vetoed by both Miu and Kokichi, even if it was nearer, because even if they won't say it, being around bugs were bound to make people uncomfortable. There were other places that they could choose, but Miu insisted on her own lab even if it was far. She felt too much at home at her lab, making inventions... although these days, she's been doing commissions for the purple gremlin she failed to kill.

Miu couldn't help wistfully look at the Electrohammers, Electrobombs and the Bugvac. There was also an override remote for all electronics but Kokichi was currently in possession of it...

All things the purple gremlin wanted to defeat Monokuma although Miu had her doubts. It was smart, but probably suicidal.

'Like going through killing and thinking you can survive the trial wasn't suicidal?' the thought went through Miu's mind.

Miu promptly ignored it, as she now faced Kokichi who was a little behind Gonta, in a slight defensive position.

The person she was going to kill and the other who was going to kill her but lost his memory about it. Could it get even more confusing?

Miu sighed, and then looked at Kokichi, "... What are you going to do, you shota?"

"I dunno. I was just going to go to have a very early breakfast, explore the school, and then... oh, maybe tell the rest that you planned to murder me?" Kokichi started out childishly, but went back to condescending smirk as his finger went to his lips with a devious smirk.

Miu huffed, "And I can also tell them that you planned to use the big lug over there to kill me!"

"Gonta not remember that, but Gonta sorry," Gonta started bowing which made Miu uncomfortable.

Then again, she had been pretty much uncomfortable ever since she failed to kill Kokichi.

... Doesn't matter.

"Yeah, you better be sorry. Who would want to kill this gorgeous girl genius? You are just robbing the people of what they need!" Miu shouted, trying to regain her old confidence, because Miu Iruma doesn't do uncomfortable. That just ain't her personality. And maybe that's exactly what she needed.

She immediately stormed toward Kokichi and then pointed at his chest although she was pushed away by Gonta, saying, "Making sure Iruma-san doesn't do anything to Ouma-kun..."

Miu scoffed, but she decided to put everything on the table, "Seriously, why didn't you just tell everyone, huh? Then this whole shit fest wouldn't have happened!"

"Funny coming from you, Iruma-chan," Kokichi said happily, "But I'm a liar! Whose to say anyone would believe me when I told them that you were out for me?"

"Gonta will believe you!" Gonta shouted, but everyone knew that was a lie. Kokichi being a self-proclaimed liar, and even if Gonta was naive, Miu knew that Gonta would rarely trust Kokichi after that Insect Meet and Greet fiasco. Kokichi had a point, if he hadn't lied so much... seriously.

"And even if someone would believe me, what were you going to do? When confronted? You would panic, right? But you wouldn't give up, and probably bid your time until the time's ripe to strike," Kokichi quipped.

...

Shit, he makes a good point, but...

"I failed already. What makes you think I'm going to do it again this time? ... It was so fucking stupid to do in the first place anyway..." Miu muttered, now deflating. She really didn't want to give up, but this time she knew the risk of actually carrying out a murder plan that she wasn't eager to do it again...

She was almost killed just for trying to kill Kokichi. She didn't want that again. The sensation, the worst sensation ever...

"As long as Iruma-san regrets it, then Gonta think it OK to forgive. Ouma-kun..." Gonta said, looking at Kokichi who had a blank look at his face.

No one could even fathom what Kokichi Ouma was thinking, even Miu and Gonta who were admittedly one of the few people who even hung out with Kokichi.... for Miu's case was for the inventions and for Gonta's case... well, it's just because he was Gonta, who wanted everyone to be friends.

That's when Kokichi suddenly said in a low voice, "...Iruma-chan plotted my murder. You think that I would forgive so easily?"

"But Gonta think you should forgive, so everyone can be friends again," Gonta insisted. Funny coming from the one who was going to kill her, but... he lost that memory, huh?

So confusing.

Miu snorted, "Like I didn't expect that. And for the record I also don't forgive you for trying to kill me by tricking Gonta. Don't know how you did it, but seriously..."

"Next time, Gonta won't fall for Ouma-kun's lies," Gonta said earnestly, before Gonta looked at Kokichi.

"But Gonta really don't understand. Surely Ouma-kun smart enough to avoid getting killed without having to kill. Gonta no want to believe any friends want to kill. Could do things more peacefully," Gonta said.

Miu had the same question in mind. Kokichi was a lot of things but no one can deny that he was smart. And it's a proven, because Miu has seen his designs of the inventions she had made for him and it's no amateur stuff she could say.

So why didn't he think of a more peaceful way to resolve this?

Unless...

"... Shota just wanted to kill for fun like Shinguji, is it?" Miu suddenly said, her eyes very accusing. Because that would make sense. The asshole prides himself into being the big bad villain.

But then why would he want tools to beat Monokuma?

Miu had long ago decided it was because same like her, he wanted to escape, because who doesn't? But at the same time, with these crazy specific inventions, she wasn't entirely sure. The lying little abortion had also prided himself into confusing the shit outta the others, like when he simply looked at Miu with a blank expression on his face.

"WHAT? Gonta no allow Ouma-kun to do that! Gonta want everyone to get along! Maybe Gonta really need to fight the Exisals if Iruma-san and Ouma-kun are thinking to kill each other!" Gonta shouted, panicked over the accusation.

"You don't have to do anything reckless, Gonta. No one wants you to die," Miu said. Sure maybe she was going to kill everyone else including Gonta if she had killed Kokichi and survived the class trial but that did not mean she wanted anyone dead, really. Who the fuck wants other people to die anyway?

"Yeah... Iruma-chan's wrong anyway. I don't kill for fun. That would be soooo tasteless of me. Really, I had to get rid of Iruma-chan because she was such a liability," Kokichi said in a chirpy tone.

Miu's eyebrows raised. Liability? This gorgeous girl genius? She wanted to storm over to Kokichi and demand answers. Why the fuck was she a liability? All she did was...

... Try to kill Kokichi even after spending time together and working on his inventions. Was it the betrayal that made Kokichi pushed off the edge and made him retaliate in such a way... because he was worried about what Miu would do if left alone...

... Tch.

Gonta reacted very badly at Kokichi's words, as he became angry and clutched Kokichi's shoulder, "Gonta don't want Ouma-kun to kill because Ouma-kun think Iruma-san liability. It not right. Ouma-kun forgotten about Akamatsu-san's promise? We all going to get out here and escape together. No more killing. No need to lose anymore friends," Gonta said, shaking Kokichi's shoulders. But even then, Kokichi simply gave a blank expression.

That promise to Kaede, huh...? After she was executed for killing Rantaro, and then more murders and executions. That promise never meant shit in the end.

In the end too, they got nothing settled. They both acknowledged their wrongdoings but they weren't exactly moving on from it, and Miu still didn't know why Kokichi did what he did, except because she was a liability.

But knowing Kokichi, was that all there is to it?

***

They were getting absolutely nowhere. Then again, how does one discuss about two attempted murders between each other? There's no guideline for that, and Gonta who tagged along because he didn't want both of them to do anything rash didn't really help matters.

Then again, this is an odd situation to begin with.

By now, Miu was supposed to be killed, there was supposed to be an investigation and he was going to offer partnership with Shuichi so that they can save everyone... by mercy killing? By progressing with the game where he will have the final resources to proceed with that plan?

Which one? Kokichi can never know anymore. Too many things have changed. Ever since he found out Miu was going to kill him, the motive and his deal with Monokuma, he was simply... teetering. He still hasn't decided yet... which was the better course of action? To take the fun away from the game or to beat it even with the risks ahead? Both sounded a bit too of a hollow victory to him. Neither appealing.

Instead, he was having the most awkward talk with Miu along with Gonta who was still clutching him and just gave him that reminder about Kaede's promise.

Kaede... her wish, her execution, the off tuned piano, Kokichi just wanted to forget. He just wanted to go back to his room right now and start planning what else to do after this, but...

"Please say something Ouma-kun. Gonta think this not the best thing to talk about, but maybe if Ouma-kun and Iruma-san both talk about why they want to kill each other, Gonta can help," Gonta said.

"... Fine," Kokichi whined. The talk was getting too long and too boring. Might as well get it over with. Both Miu and Gonta will keep quiet anyway, because Miu wouldn't want to be exposed and she can also help Kokichi keep Gonta quiet. Then, he can figure out what to do next.

"Gonta glad. Gonta want friends to get along. So please tell reason why both of you want to kill, and maybe Gonta can help, like gentleman."

Kokichi has to wonder... maybe it was a good thing for Gonta to be here, a mediator for both of them. Why not?

"I already said my piece. Iruma-chan is a liability for killing me. Whose to say she won't kill again?" Kokichi scoffed, looking at his nails in disinterest.

"Like I'm going to kill again. I... I just wanted to escape this hellhole. It's like there's no way to get outta here except kill. The world needs me! I can't just stay cooped up in this place with the rest of you freaks!" Miu screamed, seeming to let out her frustrations to both of them.

Kokichi wanted to scoff at that, but he held it in. It was so... selfish of Miu, but he couldn't necessarily blame her.

Because he was also selfish wanting to live... well, for now. He never wanted to die either, but with each death... and his uselessness, and for the greater good...

He just can't die yet. Not like that.

"Gonta no believe that killing only way to get out of here! Surely exit out there somewhere!" Gonta tried to encourage and calm Miu down but she wasn't taking it.

"Haah? And do you see any visible exit except for that death trap out in the manhole? There is no escape! And the only way to escape... is to kill!" Miu shouted.

God, Miu looks like a mess right now, really wanting to get outta here. Her and everyone else.

Gonta tried to go to Miu and hug her, before saying, "Maybe we can escape if we beat Monokuma... Maybe if Gonta take down the Exisals..."

"Don't be stupid. That's a suicide mission," Miu said, prying herself out of Gonta's hug. She still looked put out of it, but then just said, "... I just didn't want to die in this hellhole."

Gonta looked sympathetic before saying, "It's OK. Gonta promise to protect you. Gonta strong enough to do that. So Iruma-san doesn't have to worry, alright?"

Miu scoffed but then looked at Kokichi who hasn't said anything. Nor did he want to.

"... Gonta hoped this settled but maybe should tell others. Come up with better-"

"No," both Miu and Kokichi said together. They don't want anyone to know what went on between them... at all. The consequences would mean they would be branded as threats and unsafe and who knows what the others will do about that.

Gonta looked a little uncomfortable, "But you two... almost killed each other and Gonta not want that. Others surely-"

"No," Kokichi said firmly, this time going up to Gonta, "If the others found out, then they will trust me and Iruma-chan a lot less and we will have no freedom. I'm sorry, but I value my freedom."

"Me too," Miu said.

Gonta fidgeted, "But Gonta still have to watch you two. Gonta want to believe you won't kill, but Gonta think better safe than sorry."

Kokichi sighed. He wasn't surprise at the outcome so he had nothing to say about it.

"Aww man, you are so mean! But if it gets you off my back, sheesh, fine," Kokichi said.

Miu nodded along. Really, they knew there were some consequences to this, but this wasn't the absolute worst.

"Gonta glad. And Gonta hope that you two can move on from this. Don't worry, Gonta will find way out for everyone so no need to die in this hell."

Miu scoffed and Kokichi rolled his eyes. As much as he wanted to believe that, it's like there's no way out at all. It was optimistic but stupid.

Kokichi knew that there was nothing settled between him and Miu but as they looked at each other, they both made an unspoken promise to never speak of those events and put it past them.

For the best.

But now... there's a little obstacle in his plan. How is he going to fix this?

Because... from what he knew, the killing game was literally a game. And to top it off, it's also a show with the number of references Monokuma makes and him never denying whenever Kokichi quips about such a thing.

And from there, Kokichi decided to keep things interesting, which somehow makes him live long enough as Monokuma put it in the first trial. And being an antagonist seems to push the cast forward throughout the game unlike if Kokichi made himself scarce.

From there, he decided that if he took the antagonist role, might as well go full force, especially when at the very beginning, since the Death Road of Despair when he just called out his opinion and got backlash for it, his fate was set in stone.

So be it.

And taking the antagonist role meant he had to play the mastermind... right? Wouldn't that be fun, and make the cast despair so much that they will stop playing the game like a true villain...

That's where he based his plans and so close, but the outside world... Miu... the betrayal made her a liability... and an opportunity. And Kokichi being someone who takes opportunities in stride...

But what he almost did was cruel... then again, he was supposed to be cruel.

... Or is that a lie?

"Gonta think if the matter is settled, then we should go get the others," Gonta said, "Maybe the shouldn't be in the other world for too long."

Miu and Kokichi nodded, so they decided to go back, but one thought popped in Kokichi's mind.

'Will he get back his memories from the virtual world and remember?'

The outside world.

The Killing Game Busters.

The mercy killing.

... Well, he did promise Monokuma to make things interesting~

***

Gonta went back to the computer room where others were still in this other world that Gonta had no memory of.

Afterwards, Kokichi went to his seat and was fiddling with his headset, but Miu was fiddling with Gonta's as she decided to tell Gonta...

"I already switched the wires, so all you have to do is put this headset on and you will be in another world," Miu said.

"OK, Gonta understand," Gonta said easily.

"But quick warning, you will recover your memories from the other world... the one that made you want to... kill me," Miu winced when she said it, but Gonta was horrified at the thought.

"Those memories are Ouma-kun's lies! Gonta promise he won't fall for that!" Gonta said earnestly.

"Rude," Kokichi gave an off-comment as Miu rounded on Kokichi.

"Thought you would be in the virtual world by now," Miu huffed, "But good thing you are still here, 'coz it's better we know what the fuck you showed Gonta that made him go crazy and agree of all things to kill me."

Kokichi remained silent, but it made Gonta wonder... what could have Kokichi done to make Gonta think that killing was good? Gonta gentleman, he surely wouldn't do that! And he surely wouldn't believe Kokichi about anything all that easily after Insect Meet and Greet. Sure he still wants to be friends with Kokichi, but Gonta became more careful around Kokichi anyway.

"Oi, shitty shota?" Miu asked, but when he didn't respond, she cussed, "He already logged in. Fuck it."

Then, she went to her own seat, before telling Gonta, "Gonta... I dunno what made you kill me, but... please promise me that you won't do it again, no matter what."

"OK, Gonta promise. Gentleman never break promise," Gonta said.

"I will hold you onto that," Miu said, although she sounded slightly doubtful before they both logged in.

... And Gonta remembered.

The outside world... is gone.

He killed Miu... because it was an opportunity... an opportunity to perform a mercy killing and Gonta will bear the burden. Because it was better than the despair he felt... the misery and emptiness that he wanted no one else to feel... because no one deserved to feel that way.

But that plan failed when Miu forcefully logged him out.

Now... as he was in the room, already back, he can't help thinking... 'Gonta... maybe Gonta should kill, but Gonta also promise Miu not to kill... and gentleman don't break promise. And Gonta... really don't want to kill. Gonta can't.'

Gonta can't help but look at Kokichi, who was looking at Gonta with a curious look in his eyes. What should Gonta do? There is the despair of the outside world, but they could just keep quiet about it instead of killing... and maybe Kokichi just wanted to trick Gonta, like Miu said.

Gonta not smart, but he knew something was amiss... and even with the despair inside him... Gonta shouldn't think that mercy killing was the only way to go! He was too despairful to think of another course of action, and believed in Kokichi, but all things considered, as well as losing the determination to kill...

Miu broke Gonta out of his thoughts as said, "I will get to the chapel. No one must know that I was here... And find that damn bridge so that the chapel people can cross to the mansion. Got that, fuckers?"

"Sure, Iruma-chan, and we can inform them that the motive was a bust since we can't find it. Just everyone get out and resume their normal lives, well as normal in a killing game, right~?" Kokichi said, smiling.

Miu nodded and quickly made her way out of the mansion before anyone can see her outta here. Now it was only Gonta and Kokichi where Gonta has one question.

"Why?"

"Oh, so now you remember, don't'cha~" Kokichi said cheerfully, and Gonta frowned.

"Now Gonta think about it, there could have been better way instead of mercy killing," Gonta said.

"..." Kokichi remained silent.

"Sure, killing game hell and outside world hell, but killing game only hell if we kill. If we followed Angie-san's idea of making Academy heaven, and not go to outside world, then everything will be fine. No need for everyone to die and everyone live peacefully. Sure, Iruma-san wanted to kill but Gonta sure can also stop her by just confronting her," Gonta said, the thoughts appearing in his mind as he talked about it, because in the end... anything was better than the notion of killing. Gonta won't let despair get the better of him. It did before, but thankfully that was avoided and Gonta can start anew.

Kokichi was now just staring at Gonta, as if saying, 'Get to the point.'

"Gonta not smart, but Gonta think Ouma-kun lied about mercy killing. Maybe Ouma-kun just wanted to kill Iruma-san, and because Ouma-kun wanted to live made Gonta do dirty work," Gonta said, because even if he didn't want to think about it, Kokichi said something about Miu being a liability, and he never mentioned a thing about suicide as a better option or convinced Miu to do so. Gonta wondered why...

It also made him think that outside world is just fine, and flashback light might be one of Kokichi's lies, even if it was Monokuma who put it there.

Or maybe cannot trust Flashback Lights. Because Angie did say it was a part of Monokuma's brainwashing, and didn't the Flashback Light brainwash Gonta to kill?

Kokichi was scowling now, which matched Gonta's. Gentleman shouldn't be angry at friends, but Kokichi...

"So, why?" Gonta asked, as bluntly as possible. Gonta was acting stern on Kokichi, but truly he wanted to help Kokichi out. He just wished Kokichi wasn't so tricky so that he could figure out what's wrong with Kokichi and help him. Because Gonta just wanted everyone to be well and fine here, because gentleman care about the well being of others very much, and Gonta is gentleman.

Throughout the killing game, he had failed to help friends, like Rantaro, Kaede, Ryoma, Kirumi, Angie, Tenko and Kiyo... and then he almost killed Miu because of the despair he felt. He didn't think things through, only believing mercy killing way out, but now...

Gonta wanted answers from Kokichi. Gonta wished that Kokichi helped more, because he was sure Kokichi smart and can help them get out the killing game, but Kokichi always ends up being tricky and lying.

A lot of people would have given up on Kokichi after all this, but not Gonta. He didn't want to make the same mistake of not making more effort on others to the point they end up killed or killing.

"... Wow, I can't believe you figured that all out, Gonta," Kokichi muttered, now avoiding Gonta's eyes, "You are not as dumb as I thought."

"Gonta not exactly smart, but Gonta tries, because gentleman need to be smart too,"Gonta said, "So, please answer the question."

Kokichi responded by turning away and walking out of the room, even when Gonta called out, "Ouma-kun."

"Later," Kokichi said dismissively, "We have got to round up the others and bring them back."

"What are you going to do now?" Gonta asked, but it seemed that Kokichi remained silent and even refused to answer.

Gonta doesn't like this... Gonta rather believe the only enemy is Monokuma but Kokichi is acting too suspicious, but this time, and shockingly...

Gonta has an idea.

Chapter Text

"Took you long enough, bitches!" Miu cackled as she was with Himiko, Kiibo and Maki waiting at the other side as Shuichi brought the bridge that the mansion people (Kokichi, Gonta, Tsumugi and Shuichi) found by the river on their side. They couldn't find Kaito though and assumed that he logged out early.

"Says the person who was the one that lost the bridge the first place," Kokichi heckled.

"Yeah, well, my hand slipped. Don't get your boxers in a twist 'coz of a fucking accident," Miu snapped.

Miu and Kokichi were now acting as if nothing whatsoever happened, which was for the best because they didn't want to arouse any suspicions among their peers.

Surprisingly, Gonta didn't comment or do anything, which made Miu relieved. She was almost sure that getting whatever the hell those memories are would screw Gonta up, but... he was still the same old Gonta.

The only difference was that he was unusually eyeing both Miu and Kokichi a little too much. Tsumugi noticed, "What's wrong, Gonta?"

"Huh, nothing," Gonta said quickly, "Gonta just wondering what we do now."

"I guess we log out," Shuichi said, "After all, Kaito already did, and we searched everywhere. Probably Monokuma lied about the secret of the outside world."

"Yeah, that was a waste of time. Let's just go already," Maki said.

And soon enough they did, to meet with Monokuma in rage mode.

"What gives?!" Monokuma shouted, "You just gave up looking for the secret of the outside world. Don't you guys want to know?"

"How do you know that we didn't find the secret of the outside world?" Miu asked. She had always been curious how the mechanical bear seemed to find out what they were up to, although there weren't any cameras she could see. But in the case of VR, maybe there's a feed that goes to Monokuma? Who knows?

"I'm God here, remember? And now all is left is just something so boring. I thought things would get interesting here!" Monokuma shouted, and... if Miu wasn't wrong, was Monokuma eyeing Kokichi?

Kokichi simply grinned and minded his own business, until he noticed Monokuma's glare at him and responded.

"Well, you are God or whatever, right? Shouldn't you just do it yourself, or are you getting rusty?" Kokichi asked, with a shit eating grin on his face.

"You have no right to say that," Monokuma snapped, "Urgh, I can't believe a motive went to waste! Back to the drawing board it is."

Finally he disappeared, and Maki headed out, saying that she wanted to see where the idiot Kaito went off to. Soon enough, other people followed out, where there was only left Kokichi, Gonta and Miu.

Kokichi seemed to be leaving too, but before he could do so, Gonta swiftly chopped Kokichi's neck and rendered Kokichi unconscious.

"Gonta... what... the... fuck?" Miu could only spluttered out, shocked at what Gonta did. Gonta was a gentleman, he had never done stuff like that, except the time with the Insect Meet and Greet but back then, he was full of rage and not himself. This time...

"Gonta think it not too gentlemanly to do this to Ouma-kun, but Gonta also think it time to get answers. He wants to know why Ouma-kun did what he did, and Gonta also need Iruma-san's help," Gonta said, answering Iruma's shock at his actions.

"What? What help do ya need from this girl genius, ya big cuck?" Miu asked, extremely curious as Gonta easily carried Kokichi up and piggybacked ride him.

"Gonta know Ouma-kun tricky, but Gonta also worried about him. Gonta already know the reason he nearly wanted to... uh, how Ouma-kun tricked him," Gonta said.

Miu knew he was about to say 'to kill Iruma-san', but thank God he didn't. Miu won't like the reminder. Anyway, Gonta was continuing.

"Because Iruma-san also involve in this, Gonta think she only person can help. Also, because both you and Ouma-kun don't want anyone else knowing. Gonta just want some help with this because Gonta not smart enough. Gonta think we should get answers from Ouma-kun before he does something like that again. Gonta just worried," Gonta explained.

Miu was pondering Gonta's proposal. On one hand, Miu wanted no more to do with Kokichi after such a fiasco.

On the other hand, Miu wasn't exactly stupid to know that Kokichi has always knew more than he let on, seemingly steps ahead of others. Whose to say whatever information he possessed wouldn't be of any help in their situation? And... maybe she wanted to know more about the little liar... to understand him a little...

"Fine, I also think there's an invention that we could use to make sure the shota ain't lying. Then we could get the answers you want, right?" Miu muttered.

"Yeah, Gonta agrees. Thank you very much," Gonta said, walking in a more cheery pace as Miu walked behind, and she couldn't help staring at the small liar who seemed peaceful, lying on Gonta's back. Better than being a mischievous shit, that's for sure.

But still... despite his shortcomings, Kokichi was actually one of the only people who approached her and took her bullshits in stride. One of the people who was almost as intelligent as her and hold up a decent conversation about inventions, something not even Kiibo can do...

Miu really would have nothing to do with Kokichi until that day...

It started after Kaede's execution, the next morning where they were to open up new areas, but Miu didn't want that. She was happy enough just staying in her lab trying to make more inventions, because that's what Miu does.

It also helped her forget about the death and execution.

But her peace never lasted long.

"Hey whore!" Kokichi shouted.

"Eek! What do you want you shitty shota?!" Miu asked, shocked at his presence before composing herself and lashing out.

"Angie-chan is asking everyone to meet at the gym so I decided to call for you," Kokichi said with a grin.

"And how do I know it ain't a fucking lie?" Miu retorted.

"Iruma-chan, I may be a liar but that doesn't mean I always lie. Plus, why would I lie about such a thing?" Kokichi asked.

"Oh, I dunno. Maybe you were planning on fucking killing me, but I ain't that stupid," Miu said.

Kokichi gave a blank stare and said, "Boring. You really think I would take the time to kill a whore bitchlet like you? I have better things to do, you know?"

"Whore bitchlet?" Miu asked, getting turned on but Kokichi wasn't done yet. He went closer to Miu and met her eyes with a devious smirk.

"And also why would I want to kill one of the most useful people in this Academy?"

"Use- useful?" Miu now asked, completely surprised at that 180, because Kokichi prefers to insult Miu than ever giving a compliment, but she regained her confidence, "Of course I'm fucking useful. I'm Miu Iruma, Ultimate Inventor girl genius after all!"

"Is that so...? Then, Iruma-chan!" Kokichi shouted happily, "If you are so useful, then can you whip these up?"

Suddenly, Miu was shoved with blueprints, and when she saw them...

"Holy fuck. Where did you get this?" Miu asked, her eyes wide open because these blueprints detailing something like Electrohammers, Electrobombs and an override remote, they were actually very well done even with calculations and schematics although there was a lot of purple over them. She preferred pink though.

"I made them, duh," Kokichi said.

"You made them?" Miu asked in disbelief, but that would explain a lot of the purple on the blueprints.

"Uh huh, and I want Iruma-chan to make them!" Kokichi shouted like a little child.

"And why the hell would I make these for you? I have my own shit to do and anything else is below this gorgeous genius girl's time," Miu huffed, standing tall as she said those words.

Plus, she once did commissions for Kaede and Shuichi and looked how that turned out. In addition, these need to be made from scratch. She needed a helluva time to make these...

"Oh, so does that mean the Ultimate Inventor wasn't as useful as she thought she really was. Shame. And here I thought making these inventions wouldn't even be a problem," Kokichi said, looking at his nails in disinterest but those words made Miu fired up.

"Huh?! Of course this girl genius can make these shitty inventions! Just you wait, Cockichi!" Miu shouted.

"Knew you would do it, now let's go to the gym!" Kokichi shouted, so childlike.

"Why?" Miu asked.

"I wasn't lying when I said that Angie-chan wants all of us to meet at the gym or can your pea sized brain not process that?" Kokichi asked with a smirk.

Miu blushed at the insult before following Kokichi to the gym and surprisingly he was right.

Afterwards, other than Kiibo, it could be said that Kokichi was one of those who she spent the most time with although they would both deny it outright as Kokichi always made sure Miu did his commissions and they would always chat or trash talk.

But through it all, it actually felt really normal, fun and like they were great friends. Maybe they were...

But such a thing never had a place at the killing game.

Once again, she looked at Kokichi and she can't help thought, '... We betrayed each other, huh?'

Deciding she didn't want to be betrayed thanks to her immense distrust and the want to live, she decided to betray first before that could ever happen, but because she betrayed, she got it back...

It's funny, in her action so it won't happen, because of what she did, it actually happened and she almost died.

'Where did it all go wrong?' Miu thought as she finally reached her lab with Gonta and started their operation.

***

Kokichi woke up, feeling dazed. The last thing he remembered was walking out of the computer room, thinking how else to appease Monokuma for their 'deal' since he looked so angry (not that he cared about the bear but still...) before he felt a sudden jolt of pain at the neck and blackness.

When he woke up, he was in Miu's lab, strapped to a chair (and why were there wires around his arms?) with both Miu and Gonta facing him.

"What the hell is this?" Those words were the first thing coming out of Kokichi's mouth.

"Sorry Ouma-kun, but Gonta really want answers," Gonta said, bear apologetically that made Kokichi pretty sure that it was his fault he blacked out back then. Because no way Miu had the guts nor know how to chop him off unconscious.

But she was still there anyhow, staring at Kokichi with a smug grin as she said, "And this time you can't lie your way out of it. I hooked you up to a lie detector so no lies."

Kokichi's eyes widened at the words 'lie detector', "Bitch, you gotta be kidding me. You put me against a liar's mortal enemy. How dare you..."

"We should have done this a fucking long time ago!" Miu declared, "In fact, I should have made a portable lie detector bracelet and slap one on you so we can finally stop with your crappy lies!"

"I am so glad that you never did that. Thank God your brain is only filled with dildos and innuendos," Kokichi heckled.

"Wha-?" Miu asked, shrinking back.

Meanwhile, although Gonta felt uncomfortable and slightly puzzled at Miu's reaction, Gonta decided to press on, looking straight at Kokichi's eyes, "Ouma-kun... why did you make me almost murder Iruma-san? Gonta sure that you have better ways to solve this..."

"There were no other- Ouch!" Kokichi cried when he felt a certain zap.

Of course, Gonta asked, "Ouma-kun OK?"

"No I'm not! This is what you get for putting a liar on a lying detector machine. It hurts- ouch!" Kokichi yelped again to the distress of Gonta and Miu's narrowed eyes.

"That was a fucking lie. The thing shocks more than it hurts," Miu said, "I'm no sadist."

"Course you aren't," Kokichi snorted, well aware that the lie detector indeed shocks more then it hurts, "Otherwise you would have had a better spine a long time ago, you spineless sub."

"Spineless sub?" Miu asked, turned on... which Gonta once again looked uncomfortable over but persisted.

"So, you could have avoided killing Iruma-san? Gonta wonder... whether it has something to do with the outside world..." Gonta said, seemeingly lost in thought.

"What?" Miu barked, "If he wanted to escape, he would have killed me by himself, but he decided to scapegoat you instead."

"Gonta mean..." Gonta quickly said at Miu's outburst, "The Flashback Light showed end of world-"

"Haah? End of world? No way's that fucking possible!" Miu cried.

"Gonta think so too, even if looked real, because... Gonta don't want to believe..." Gonta said.

"You don't want to believe it? That's your proof?" Kokichi scoffed. What's the use of belief in a killing game? ...But actually when he saw the outside world with his own eyes...

Didn't he selfishly want to believe that it wasn't real? Didn't he know it was a motive set up by a bear that should never be trusted? Didn't he try to find evidence to prove it to the contrary? And when Monokuma easily agreed to his plan, was it because... someone else other than the mastermind wanted to watch something interesting happen so much...?

Kokichi won't call himself a genius but he was extremely paranoid to a fault. So much that he refused to believe anything at all but himself. Not his classmates, not the Flashback Lights, not the motives, not the bear... just himself.

So was it so wrong to disbelieve the same as Gonta at what he never trusted in the first place... even though it looked so real... even if it made him feel so despairful, something that didn't seem to go away.

Something that was blocking his common sense and making him act a little too crazy... the desperation to keep this game going so he can find more evidence to disprove the end of the world. But at the same time, the effect of seeing such a disaster, the brutal thoughts that have accompanied such a sight and won't go away... and when he remembered the misery of the killing game prior, the thought of them suffering... for what? ...At that time, he felt that Death would be more welcome than the overwhelming despair that always, always accompanied them...

So, when Kokichi suggested the mercy killing, he wasn't actually lying about it. The end of the world, even if it could be fake, can really... turn someone insane, the despair too pressuring and something he would wish for no one. It even sounded peaceful compared to his plans if he were to proceed with this any further.

Kokichi was human, and as one, after all this shit, he had enough, no longer wanting to deal with this and just... end it.

But a part of him, because the end of the world could be fake, sneered at himself for even thinking of giving up and branding him as a failure of a leader and that he should use this to his advantage so everyone can escape instead of trying to kill everyone including himself.

Quite frankly, at his most vulnerable state, where he was at his cracking point no longer able to know what to do... turning crazy, Kokichi had a dilemma, unknowing what to do and stopped functioning, but... his mask on, people can see that everything is still fine and dandy.

A lie.

Kokichi snapped out of his thoughts as Gonta was speaking.

"Gonta just want to believe. Is that wrong? Angie-san also said before that we should not believe the Flashback Lights. So Flashback Light that showed outside world must be fake," Gonta said almost pleadingly.

"Yea... yeah," Miu quipped, "I don't know what the fuck you have seen, but those Flashback Lights have always been sketchy as hell. And if there's such a thing as the end of the world, why is there such a thing as graduation here? To escape outside if there's no outside world? There's gotta be a place to escape too beyond that End Wall. I mean, c'mon!"

Miu was also desperate, refusing to believe a thing such as the end of the world even if she didn't see it herself. There was hope in both their eyes as they both stared down at Kokichi.

Kokichi remained silent.

"Well," Miu clicked her tongue, "Knowing you, this probably is a part of some grander plan or something. Better straight to the point, what are you planning?"

"What plans are you talking about? I have so many of them that I can't possibly choose!" Kokichi said, trying to divert this dangerous line of questioning.

Although he was 99% sure that Gonta and Miu weren't the mastermind considering the events that transpire, he can't trust them enough yet. Also, there might be someone listening in...

"I'm sure Iruma-san meant the plan involving the Killing Game Busters," Gonta said.

"Killing Game Busters?" Miu asked and Gonta gave the rundown. Miu clicked her tongue, unhappy.

"I will never understand what's going on with his mind..." Miu said distastefully before she rounded on Gonta.

"Fuck it, I told ya he ain't gonna tell us anything damn straight out of his own free will," Miu spat to Gonta.

"Gonta just hope..." Gonta said, but was cut off by Miu.

"That's why we are going with Plan B. Can't believe that invention that I scrapped might actually be put to good use," Miu said, before she picked up some kind of small ray with a screen which she was pointing at Kokichi.

"Oh, and what is that?" Kokichi asked excitedly, even if it was pointed at him because it does look interesting.

"It's a mind reader! I just ask this sucker a question, and when I fire it, it will sift through your mind to find the damn answer. I'm a fucking genius!" Miu shouted as she cackled.

...

"IT EXISTS?!" Kokichi shouted. He thought that stuff was only sci-fi. Damn, Miu really isn't the Ultimate Inventor for nothing.

"I take back lie detectors as mortal enemies, that... mind reader is officially a liar's worst enemy, so much that I want to burn it."

"Just like how people would put a liar's pants on fire," Miu smirked, "Now get burned as we get the fucking answers we need!"

Kokichi practically scoffed at the bad pun, as Gonta said, "Are you sure nothing bad will happen to Ouma-kun?"

"Well, I'm a genius! Of course there's nothing bad that will happen to him, promise!" Miu laughed, but Kokichi notes how her eyes were looking slightly nervous.

Mind reader inventions were pretty much said to be sci-fi and it actually existing in real life... untested...

Why were things going so out of whack?!

***

Gonta was still skeptical of using such a dangerous device on Kokichi. He didn't want anything bad to happen to his friends after all. He wasn't even sure whether that invention would actually work, but then again he had been living in a forest outside civilisation for a long time, so how should he know?

He can only trust Miu's word.

"Don't worry," Miu reassured again, typing something on the screen, "Anything made by this great Miu Iruma is bound to work!"

"But didn't you say you scraped it?" Kokichi asked.

Miu ignored him and said, "Now we are getting some info outta you. Maybe then you wouldn't cause so much trouble if we knew what you know. Heehee."

"Are you sure that you have nothing to say for yourself, Ouma-kun?" Gonta pleaded, "Right now, all we want to know is what you are up to. Maybe Gonta can help, as long as it has nothing to do with killing. Gonta just worried for you, Ouma-kun. Gonta just don't want you to put yourselves or others in danger..."

Gonta was kind of disappointed when Kokichi wouldn't open up to them, especially when opening up to them meant the opportunity for Gonta to help Kokichi and also fix his own mistakes, atone for his almost wrongdoing.

Because, in the past when he always explored the forests with his forest family and discovering new bugs and nature, he was always told to protect such things as well as things that matter, which became a promise he always kept. Which is why he was always so protective to others, and why he didn't mind becoming a gentleman because being protective was what a gentleman does... and something he looks up to. Protecting others which was one thing he was good at, especially with his big and strong nature...

So, of course when Gonta failed to protect, doing the opposite back then ... almost breaking such a promise to himself, he was horrified and the only thing he can do... is to rectify it, so he wanted Kokichi to say something, his reasons and motivations, so he could help Kokichi... protect him from such notions that led him astray...

But Kokichi remained silent.

"Damn brat," Miu said now holding the trigger of her mind reader, before giving something of a condescending smirk, "Prepare to be invaded!"

"What happened to my rights?!" Kokichi shouted.

"You never had them in the first place!" Miu shouted back gleefully before pulling the trigger.

A yellow beam immediately zapped out of the machine before hitting Kokichi as he let out a scream.

Gonta immediately rushed to his side and tried to hold Kokichi's hand in comfort, "Ouma-kun, are you OK?"

Kokichi didn't respond, seeming lost in thought and struggling. It hurt Gonta to see him like this and rounded on Miu, "Gonta think we should stop."

Miu was not listening to him, apparently glued to the screen, her eyes actually widening. But she wasn't listening to Gonta at all.

"Iruma-san..." Gonta said sternly. He hoped nothing bad happened to Kokichi. Although Kokichi wasn't exactly a good person, it doesn't mean he deserved anything bad happening to him.

Before Gonta could do anything drastic measures to stop Miu, the zap went off and Kokichi now slumped in his seat, breathing heavily as Gonta comforted him and Miu immediately sifting through a table filled with inventions until she came across some vacuum and... proceeded to vacuum?

'Why?' Gonta wondered, but before he could ask anything about it, Miu finally stopped, went over to Kokichi and... slapped him?!

"What the fuck were you thinking?! With all this shit...! Are you out of your fucking mind?!" Miu screamed, now clutching Kokichi.

"Iruma-san!" Gonta cried at such a turn of events and tried to pry her away from Kokichi but Miu didn't listen. Kokichi remained resolutely unresponsive.

"You piece of shit," Miu uttered, dejected. It was then that Miu realised that Gonta was there, who looked at Miu with a confused face. With that, Miu took the mind reader and handed it to him, "Read this."

Gonta did.

Q: What were you up to and why did it involve Miu and Gonta? Why couldn't you tell us?

A: I wanted to win this game. I wanted to beat the mastermind and Monokuma at their own game and end this game. I even had this plan in the works to rig the game so that Monokuma would be forced to end this game, even if I had to die myself... but as long as I win, as long as this game ends and everyone else escapes, I will be satisfied.

However, something changed that... to the point I no longer want to play. It was unbelievable when I saw the end of the world, that felt so real unlike the fake Flashback Lights. And Iruma-chan planning to kill me... even after the time we spent... when I actually, stupidly, trusted her a little...

I knew it wouldn't be easy to stop someone like Iruma-chan and by then... the only option and opportunity left, to avoid, to prove... was make a deal with Monokuma and off Iruma-chan with the promise to be fun. But back then, I wasn't thinking of making it fun. By then, I was already thinking maybe to mercy kill everyone, away from this horrible game... as an escape...

But even back then, I always thought whether I should mercy kill or go back to my other plan? This game is terrible... the worst and I never wanted to play in the first place. Maybe I just thought that I could at least take away the fun by killing everyone else... or keep going and taking away the fun while releasing the players trapped in this unfair game?

Because after all we went through, should we really keep going, to end in an even more miserable state? Or just end all this misery when things seem impossible.

I can't tell anyone because I can't trust anyone. There are also bugs listening in and relaying everything to Monokuma. So, how can I risk that?

Gonta looked up at shock from what he's reading. Really, he didn't understand anything, but...

"Ouma-kun! Explain this!" Gonta cried, wanting to hear... something from the boy's lips.

"I have disabled all the bugs," Miu said, "Is that why you made the Bugvac? Because you knew that Monokuma was having surveillance on us like this?"

Kokichi was still silent, so Miu continued.

"We already know you actually planned on a mercy killing, for the bullshit reason that you thought the end of the world was real! When we shouldn't trust whatever that bear threw at us!"

Gonta understood what Miu was saying, but he also understood where Kokichi was coming from. Gonta had no idea when Kokichi saw the end of the world, but when Gonta himself saw it... he also initially believed it was better to put people out of their misery. But the chaos that followed and his gentlemanly virtue to keep promises had already dissuaded the initial thought.

But... the mercy killing was really not a lie. Kokichi... felt the same way too after all. Gonta couldn't blame him for that, but he will make sure that Kokichi won't do anything so foolish.

"But even without the mercy killing idea... your plan to take down Monokuma... even if it meant dying yourself! Why...? Would you really sacrifice yourself for that plan of... rigging this game so you can win? Is that what my inventions were for...?" Miu continued asking.

Kokichi's face entirely went blank before saying, "I have no idea- ouch! Damn thing..."

"What? There really other way? Or your plan really involve dying?" Gonta asked, to which Kokichi shook his head.

"Speak up so we will know whether it's a lie or not," Miu said.

Kokichi remained silent.

"We are getting nowhere," Miu groaned and Gonta had to agree, but what Kokichi planned...

Why?

Before they could even think to ask anything else out of Kokichi, someone knocked the door of the Lab and they heard Kiibo's voice.

"Iruma-san, I noticed that you didn't come to breakfast. So, I brought you some," Kiibo said.

"Coming, Kiibs," Miu said, but instead, she removed Kokichi from the lying machine before actually coming to open the door and see Kiibo's cheery face which turned to surprise as he saw both Gonta and Kokichi who was now standing far away from the lie detector.

"Ouma-kun? Gonta-kun? What are you doing here?" Kiibo asked.

"They were helping me test some of my inventions," Miu said and technically that was the truth.

"Oh I see," Kiibo said, buying the lie, "Here's your breakfast and umm... Iruma-san, can I stick around? I think I need some maintenance..."

"OK, that's my cue to get outta here," Kokichi said, immediately walking to the door. Gonta followed him.

Before he knew it, Gonta carried Kokichi up to his back which surprised the little liar but later smiled widely.

"Is Gonta giving me a piggy back? Yay! Onward to the cafeteria!" Kokichi shouted childishly, to which Gonta smiled and just did so.

But there was another reason Gonta chose to piggy back Kokichi, so he could keep an eye on him. And throughout the walk, Gonta was once again left to his thoughts...

Kokichi... why?

Why all the schemes? Why risk yourself? Why always so tricky? Why look evil to others? Why didn't you ask people for help with what's bothering you? Why always lie? Why always push others away? Why no friends?

Gonta had a lot of questions for the liar, but he would never expect an honest answer. At the same time, he didn't want to let Kokichi be and make the same mistakes as his deceased friends, the ones he failed to protect... something that always broke Gonta's heart and always found himself having painful what-ifs.

If he knew that Rantaro was going out and insisted on going with him instead of watching bug movies, would Rantaro still be alive?

If he hung out more with Kaede and knew of her selflessness to murder the mastermind and talked her out of it, would Kaede still be alive?

If he managed to comfort Ryoma out of his depression and hung out more with the others no longer wanting to die, would Ryoma still be alive?

If he could have dissuaded Kirumi from killing and find another way to escape, would Kirumi still be alive?

If he patrolled the Academy better and kept guard more on Angie, would Angie still be alive?

If he joined the seance and was aware enough to prevent whatever happened to Tenko, would Tenko still be alive?

If he knew of Korekiyo's... situation and confronted him about it, with the insistence that his sister would not be happy over such dark deeds, would Korekiyo be still alive?

So many friends lost and gone... and maybe Gonta could have done better... Of course, he was one person and have no way of things such as this happening under his nose, but he wished... he could have done better. Because he still remembered the day when Kaede told them to escape together and be friends with everyone.

Now there were fewer and fewer friends.

And would have lost a few more if not for strange events.

He would have lost Miu and himself if he went through what he did, and Gonta will thank Atua everyday that they were still alive, but...

Miu, the willingness to kill to escape.

Kokichi, the willingness to die to win the game.

Gonta disagreed with both. No more loss. And unlike the others before them, he will...

"Iruma-san, Ouma-kun... Gonta promise to be a better friend and help you so we can all get out together with the others..." Gonta said softly, unknowing if Kokichi ever heard such a statement from him.

He will become better friends to them. Plans and schemes were too complicated for Gonta, but at the very least he could help both of them off to the right direction...?

Yes, yes he would.

Before long, they reached the cafeteria and Kokichi nimbly stepped down off Gonta's back.

"Thanks Gonta. It's nice to have a piggy back ride," Kokichi said childishly. Gonta smiled.

"Your welcome, Ouma-kun," Gonta said earnestly.

Gonta watched the little liar whipped up something for breakfast while he himself did the same and keeping an eye on Kokichi. Gonta could only do so much, he was also very curious about Kokichi's plans and such but prying might not do much good.

'All Gonta could do now,' Gonta thought, 'Is to earn the trust of Ouma-kun and Iruma-san.'

And make sure that everything will be alright, for them and also for the others. Protecting others like he should. Keeping promises that should never be broken.

Chapter Text

"Please... please don't touch there," Kiibo said, as Miu was putting her wrench down to a more... private part.

"Don't worry, Kiibs. You would be alright," Miu cooed, setting herself to work.

After finishing the light breakfast that Kiibo brought, Miu immediately went to work on Kiibo's maintenance, one of her only enjoyments in the killing game.

Miu was quite interested in Kiibo, also glad that he's one of the people who always stuck by her despite her brash mouth and always appreciated her genius.

And Kiibo was a robot, something that intrigued the inventor into looking more. Kiibo could really be one of her only friends in this damn hellhole.

And doing the maintenance on Kiibo also set most of her worries back to her mind.

But when she finished, they came back full force.

Her deed almost done. The aftermath. The questioning. The shock.

'You lying little abortion,' Miu thought bitterly.

Kokichi... she always had mixed feelings with that little shit. He wasn't exactly a friend, with their bickering and so... but they always had... something.

Maybe that something was the reason she felt guilty when she planned to kill Kokichi.

Maybe that something was the reason she felt betrayed when Kokichi also decided to off her as well.

Maybe that something was the reason she wanted to know more about Kokichi, know past his lies and masks, get to know him better when Gonta asked her help for that interrogation.

Maybe that something is the reason when she read Kokichi's thought, she felt very frustrated, confused and angry at him for being so... so... so stupid.

She still remembered that she slapped him in anger when she knew what suicidal plan he thought up. She remembered always thinking that Kokichi Ouma was nothing more than a lying asshole who loved the killing game as he always sowed confusion and chaos.

But the mind reader... showed something very confusing that might possibly contradict the fact that Kokichi was the complete asshole he makes out to be. If you interpret 'as everyone else escapes...'

That maybe he cared and he wanted to...

It could be wrong, but there were a few proofs to back it up.

Such as the inventions she had to make for Kokichi. Miu knew that he wanted to use this to escape the killing game even when he claimed his love for it, for the reason she thought as not wanting to die in this hellhole, same as Miu. But there was more toward it...

Like... maybe the Electrohammers, Electrobombs and the override remote would be good against Monokuma, but the Bugvac? Which was used to scramble surveillance? For exactly what reason...

Except for his own damn plan.

And when he said he had no idea what they were talking about, it was a lie.

Meaning he had been planning such a thing all the time...

That he wanted to kill himself to win a game. The fool... but then seeing the end of the world and then Miu gunning after him... made him quit and hastily decided to bring the others down with him even if he had an inkling it could be fake, because he couldn't take it anymore...

In other words, the shota snapped. He's out of his fucking mind, and even thought it was OK to kill this gorgeous girl genius for something so insane, even when she was the one who initiated it first...

But he could have thought of better ways to handle that, to handle her. Kokichi was many things, but he was not an idiot unlike certain people here... he could have... he didn't have to...

'... when I actually, stupidly trusted her a little.' The thought suddenly came out unwanted and sorrowful, reminding Miu... that she had betrayed Kokichi and the reason why he decided to kill her off...

Ggh. Why did he have to be so damn confusing all the time?

Really, no matter how much she pondered on the mystery of Kokichi Ouma, she can't see him being nothing but an asshole. Yet at the same time, deep inside he might have an emphatic nature under the sadistic surface, something humane? When she thought he didn't care whatsoever?

Tch.

She had a long time ago gave up getting a read on him anyway. Kokichi Ouma was like an impossible puzzle way too advanced for humans and hell, even advanced robots to crack.

"Iruma-san, is everything alright?" Kiibo asked, his face concerned. Miu came out from her own thoughts, before she let up a confident smile.

"Of fucking course, Kiibs. You worry too much," Miu said.

"If you say so, Iruma-san," Kiibo said, although he looked a little skeptical, "But if there's anything you want to talk about, know that I am here for you."

Miu remained silent, her thoughts getting a little worse. Kiibo was her friend, and he thought the same of her.

But she was willing to sacrifice him just so she could get out if she won that class trial. Wouldn't she have felt guilty, sad, trying to justify herself...?

Guess it's a blessing that both she and Kokichi failed at their respective murder attempts then. Maybe now...

"Hey, Kiibs?" Miu asked, to which she was responded with a curious, "Yes?"

"I've been wondering, but do you really think that we could really get out of here?" Miu asked.

Kiibo was very silent before he said softly, "... I hope so."

Miu scoffed. Even the robot was unsure. Is killing really the only way to get out of here?

"But even then!" Kiibo said, which surprised Miu because she thought he was finished, "I'm sure that a solution will present itself in due course. Maybe the secret of the outside world would have helped. If we knew about it, we could have found another way to escape..."

Kiibo looked thoughtful but Miu disagreed. From both Gonta and Kokichi, the most truthful and the one she extracted with a mind reader, even if Kokichi was slightly unsure but believed the outside world to be a lie, somewhat, the secret of the outside world could be a fucking lie.

Even the Flashback Lights. She knew they were shifty from the start, but she chose to believe them anyway, including that 'mankind deserves damnation'.

But that was another fucking lie. Maybe Angie had the right idea destroying Flashback Lights, because it made Miu gain the urge to kill because she wanted to prove herself to the outside world before things go awry there instead of being cooped here, isolated.

But if the Flashback Lights are a lie, then surely the outside world is fine. She can still get out of here without dirty hands and show the world what she's made of.

"Kiibo," Miu said breaking the robot's daydream state, "If you were able to escape, what do you think you are going to do?"

"I would probably reunite with my creator. I'm really wondering how he's doing..." Kiibo said, a sad smile gracing his face.

For his creator, huh?

"What about you, Iruma-san?" Kiibo asked, and Miu immediately gave her answer.

"I'm going to create the best invention the world's ever seen so my golden brains and gorgeous looks go down in history!"

"That's great, Iruma-san!" Kiibo exclaimed, "But... I wonder, don't you have anyone to go back to? I'm sure your family and friends are worried..."

Miu remained utterly silent on that front. She didn't really have any friends and family outside, because... no one ever understands her. Ever since that car crash, ever since that surgery, ever since she was deemed a freak for being a little more special from the surgery... Sure, she got a few clients and commissions from other people... because even if her peers scoffed at her inventing ideas and genius, some could benefit but... they never counted as people close to her. So, overall, she was alone.

But soon they will understand her, when she gets out of here and makes the best invention... That's why she wanted to escape, same like anybody in this situation.

Except for one person apparently... and once again, Miu couldn't help but seethe at Kokichi.

How could someone be smart yet stupid at the same time?

"Iruma-san, are you OK? I'm sorry if I asked a rude question. Please don't answer if it makes you feel uncomfortable," Kiibo hastily said at Miu's prolonged silence.

"Oh... oh! You don't need to feel sorry, Kiibs. It's OK for me to answer that question. Actually... I don't really have any family and friends to go back to. My family kinda disowned me and I don't really have any friends, so..." Miu finally said. She didn't mind telling this stuff to Kiibo, for the robot was actually a calming and friendly presence that compelled her to open up.

Even at such complicated problems as being disowned... but that was never her fucking fault. She had always been left to her own devices, and even more so after the surgery where her family thought her out to be eccentric with her bragging and eureka moments and soon disowned her for causing such trouble among her peers and gaining a bad rep which her family no longer want to deal with, especially when the too were fed up with Miu's weirdness, even when she thought the weirdness was actually a brilliance...

Because they never understood her, Miu had always thought. That's why she was abandoned.

But they will regret it when she made the best invention and they will take back at their actions. Miu would have her family back, a lot more friends and she would never be alone... which she could have done, if she wasn't stuck in this stupid game.

"Oh..." Kiibo said, "I'm sorry Iruma-san, but it's not that you don't have any friends. I'm your friend, right?"

Miu startled at what Kiibo said, before a smile graced her lips. Friend... Kiibo thinks she's...

"And as a friend, can I have one favour?" Kiibo asked.

"Sure Kiibs," Miu said immediately, not putting much thought toward it.

"Until we escape, can you promise to stay alive so we can get out of here together? I know things are getting bad and Monokuma most likely will have a new motive since his last one failed, but... I want to believe we can overcome it and we can escape together! And... Iruma-san, I don't want you to die..." Kiibo said, now trailing off.

Miu was taken aback at this statement. Someone actually cared for her in this hellhole, and if she committed her murder scheme, she would have lost that very someone who was now appealing her to be alive so they can escape together as friends.

How can she forgotten? What is this feeling that stirred inside her chest? Once again, she smiled but deep down, guilt was rattling her.

"Course Kiibs," Miu finally said, "Like this gorgeous girl genius is about to die easily!"

Kiibo smiled, "I'm glad. I better get going now... take care, Iruma-san."

When he left, Miu just felt guilty. But it was because she completely distrusted everyone here. Eventually one of them will betray her and she would die. Look at Kaede, look at Kirumi, hell... even look at Gonta! Three people you would never expect to kill ended up having the urges to do just that!

It also almost happened, and for all people thought of her, Miu wasn't stupid enough to try something that already failed once.

'If I can't escape by killing, I might as well do something useful...'

'Why would I want to kill the most useful person here?' A certain little abortion told her a while ago when they started their 'alliance'.

Yet he almost did that, because her severe distrust made her useless enough to be discarded.

'I will prove you wrong, Cockichi,' Miu thought.

She was fucking useful and she can do something to get them out of this hellhole, instead of being a liability, instead of just wanting to escape rather than trying to get everyone outta here with the others as Kokichi was trying to do...

'You little shit,' Miu thought.

***

Kokichi thought Gonta would never leave him alone.

Soon enough and obviously, people have grown quite suspicious about such a thing, narrowing their eyes in suspicion at the duo especially Kokichi.

It was not the first time, and won't be the last. Nevertheless, he didn't want Gonta to be subjected to such a thing, especially when he doesn't deserve it.

"Gonta... you don't have to follow me around all the time like a lost puppy, ya know?" Kokichi piped up, almost reaching his room.

Gonta shook his head, "Gonta want to make sure Ouma-kun safe."

"But how about Iruma-chan? I thought you were going to protect her, like you promised," Kokichi said.

Gonta frowned, seeming to remember that and was now torn between both.

"I'll be fine," Kokichi reassured, "I'm just going to stay in my room and mind my own business anyway... what's the worst that can happen?"

Gonta seemed to be still contemplating before saying, "Gonta understands if you need privacy, so Gonta will leave you alone for now. Gonta hope that we can hang out sometimes?"

"Sure!" Kokichi chirped, before even though hesitant, Gonta finally left him alone. When he was back in his room, he immediately went to his whiteboard where the deceased were at the left and the surviving members were on their right with most grouped in their own categories.

The Monokubs were rightfully labelled as 'annoying', Kiibo was labelled as 'weird' because for what reason would someone kidnap a robot and make it participate in a killing game, especially with the three laws of robotics at hand that prevent such species from killing, Shuichi was put as 'trustworthy?' because his detective skills and the way he is a protagonist to his antagonist makes Kokichi fail to see Shuichi as a mastermind.

Although it would be a good plot twist if the hero suddenly turns to be the villain... but is Shuichi that good an actor?

Maybe. The mastermind has eluded suspicion so well by being one, hence the question mark.

The rest were labelled as suspicious, still unknowing whose to be the mastermind. But...

Kokichi untacked Miu's and Gonta's photos as he made a new category, as he wrote, 'Wary?'

Both of them know more than he liked although he didn't know exactly how much they knew, but they knew about his plan.

They are keeping an eye on him.

They could hinder his plans.

Or they could be useful to him.

Or they could be trusted allies.

But is it wise to trust them considering this has always been a game of distrust, something that Monokuma always always proved.

"Finally alone! Geez, I thought that big lug won't leave ya alone!"

Speak of the devil...

"Hey Monokuma, what'cha doubt visiting lil' ol' me?" Kokichi asked, his cheery voice in contrast with Monokuma's downright annoyance at him.

"Unbelievable. Never before had a motive been wasted without anyone killing someone. You have a lot of explaining to do, mister!" Monokuma waggled his paws.

Kokichi shrugged nonchalantly, as if very unaffected by this situation, "Well, can't blame the spirit of people who don't want to die! That's why there are plenty of attempted murders in the world where people are traumatized but at least alive."

"Not in this killing game you won't! There will be no attempted murders, only murders where death is the theme! Sheesh, narrowly avoided having one attempted murder and ended up having another anyway," Monokuma grumbled.

Kokichi reeled in from those words. Maybe Monokuma thought Kokichi would dismiss anything that Monokuma said as pure nonsense like the rest of the students did, but sometimes Monokuma can let slip terrifying truths... So that means...

'There was another attempted murder...? But he also said 'narrowly avoided'. Which murder that happened was actually attempted and...?'

Kokichi looked back at the bear. He knew the rules state that Monokuma cannot interfere with murders but what about the mastermind, who in all technicalities are a contestant in this very killing game...

"Hmm? What'cha thinking about? Hopefully it's something that will spice up the killing game! Because you failed the first time, mister!" Monokuma shouted.

"Ehh... I may get something. How about...?"

Kokichi told Monokuma and received a blank face in return.

"Alright, I better see chaos. It would be a great kickstarter to a new motive. And... don't think you are outta debt yet, kid," Monokuma said, his face letter morphing into an evil grin.

"What?" Kokichi asked, staring at the bear with question in his eyes.

"You still owe me, bub. You pretty much one sided the deal, and I will come collect whenever, got that?" Monokuma said.

"Mmhm," Kokichi said, unfazed, "But you going now? Sure you have a lot of things in store other then meeting up with lil' ol' me... and I know that you can't wait to fire 'em up!"

"I sure do," Monokuma said, with a maniacal grin before disappearing.

Kokichi promptly sighed in relief before frowning at the whiteboard.

'An attempted murder, and the mastermind finished the job?'

Which one...?

He could rule out Ryoma and Kirumi. Kirumi was there all the time in doing her murder plot. There was no room for errors.

Korekiyo too with both Angie and Tenko. Because he was very sure that Kiyo finished the job for Angie to leave no witnesses and Kokichi was sure even if Kiyo somehow managed to fail to kill Tenko, Monokuma would let it slide because one murder should be enough.

Kaede and Rantaro... actually Kaede failing to kill Rantaro would make sense to be honest. After all, all Kaede did was roll the shot put ball down a vent. She hadn't murder in person, so the chances of the shot put ball missing...

Kokichi's gears were spinning with newfound possibilities, possibilities he can use to end this rigged game as fast as possible. New plans, out with the old... If he could use it to his advantage...

'So... there's the possibility that Monokuma cheated, huh? There's no fun playing or watching a rigged game. So what happens if I cheated in turn? It's only fair,' Kokichi mused.

Even though at first Kokichi no longer wanted to play... but really, at that time, when Miu was going to kill him... when he was still processing that outside world information, it could be said he was just scared, desperate and wanted everything to end.

However, the threat of death is gone, his plans all back to square one, his initial goal still lingering in his heart, his feelings for his classmates and the opportunity arising... it was time to get back on track.

Monokuma's little hint, which was probably some mocking words for a few certain deceased to someone alive as a little joke to himself or possibly a slip of a tongue...

Who knows? Maybe Monokuma thought that Kokichi won't mind if he figured out given his antagonist persona...

Monokuma would be dead wrong if he thought Kokichi did not figure it out and wasn't going to do something about it.

There was still daylight out... he can cross reference all the evidence of the first trial, the library...

And there was also the chaos he promised.

Kokichi might be a liar, but he doesn't exactly break promises he could keep... so that means, a visit to Miu's Lab. All the items for a chaotic morning were there...

He didn't need to meet with Miu specifically, just get some useful gadgets.

Miu... wonder how the slut's doing?

Kokichi shook his head. Miu is inconsequential now, but...

'Funny,' Kokichi mused, 'I'm actually caring about the bitch. It's like attempted murder can bring people closer together...'

Kokichi chuckled to himself as he took a notebook out from one of his drawers and gathering the evidence that he himself collected for reference or just to grieve... he started flipping and writing... his thoughts and memories of the dead within his room his only company...

***

Gonta was still worried for Kokichi, but it was also good he checked on Miu too. He did promise to be friends for both of them.

Yet Gonta worried... Gonta worried that both of them might do something that they both regretted...

"Hey Gonta! Ouma giving you a hard time?" Someone called out to him, Gonta turned around to see that it was Kaito.

"Huh? No, Momota-kun. Ouma-kun giving Gonta no trouble at all..." Gonta said.

"You sure. Considering that you have been following him around lately. Is he asking you to do something for him?" Kaito asked.

"No, Gonta just worried for Ouma-kun. Make sure he doesn't make any trouble..." Gonta said.

Kaito chuckled, "I think that's kinda impossible, Gonta. That asshole always likes to create trouble everywhere he goes... y'know, I think it's best to stay away from him..."

"Why?" Gonta asked startled.

"Ouma could be a bad influence and we don't want anything bad to happen... and considering Ouma... Gonta, after the Insect Meet and Greet, guess we just don't want that anymore," Kaito sighed.

"Gonta... understand, but Gonta don't want to leave Ouma-kun..." Gonta said.

"Why? Ouma's always doing his own thing, preaching against cooperation and all that. He doesn't even want to get along with us, and always causes trouble. He doesn't even want to make friends, so why bother?" Kaito asked.

Gonta winced at those words, but he said, "But Gonta think that Ouma-kun shouldn't be left alone... everyone needs a friend, and Gonta want to be friends with Ouma-kun despite being tricky, so he could be there for him because he doesn't have many friends, like true gentleman."

Kaito huffed before saying, "If he didn't act the way he was, he would have friends... I will never understand why he's like that... but if you want to be friends with him, then I won't stop you. Good luck, you'll probably need it."

"Thank you, Momota-kun," Gonta said, smiling.

Kaito smiled too, before saying, "Yeah, nice chatting with ya.See y-" Then, he suddenly coughed, blood already at the palm of his hand. Gonta immediately panicked.

"Are you OK?!" Gonta asked, worried.

"Yeah... yeah, I'm fine..." Kaito said, but Gonta frowned, not believing that in the slightest. No one who coughs out blood, and a lot covering the palm of his hand, is fine.

So Gonta asked with a worried tone in his voice, "Momota-kun... are you sick?"

"What... no, no," Kaito said, waving his hand dismissively at such a claim, but he was also looking shaky and Gonta frowned deeper.

But nevertheless, Gonta decided not to call out the lie. Kaito must have a reason not to alerting them of his sickness, so Gonta decided to believe in Kaito...

"OK," Gonta said. He was a gentleman and gentleman do notpry unless neessary.

"But Gonta think Momota-kun should be in his room. You don't look so good..." Gonta said.

But it was gentleman to care for other's needs. Sure, he promised to be there for Miu and Kokichi, but that doesn't mean that Gonta neglect others.

"I... I can go..." Kaito started, but he hacked away, and Gonta worried, slung Kaito's shoulder over his body and walked him back to the dorms.

"It's not..." Kaito started, but Gonta shook his head as he said, "Gonta doesn't mind. Gonta is gentleman and help friends."

Kaito smiled slightly as they walked to the dorm rooms, and in silence, Gonta decided to strike a conversation with Kaito.

"Why Momota-kun out just now?" Gonta asked.

"Oh... actually Gonta... I was looking for you," Kaito said.

"Looking for Gonta? Why?" Gonta asked.

"Just wanted to warn you about Ouma. Guy's been acting lot weirder these past few days... feel like he's planning something, and after what happened with you and that Insect Meet and Greet, I just thought that I had to warn ya to be careful..." Kaito said.

Gonta hummed. Kaito wasn't wrong, but he was kinda too late with the warning. The memory where Kokichi declared he would be blackened for the killing game and Kaito punching him was still fresh in his mind. That time, he thought that he really should fight the Exisals... but deep within his thoughts, he failed how to see Kokichi was faring, that he might be planning something sinister...

Which led Gonta to almost kill Miu.

Gonta knew he didn't, but the fact that he almost did... he will atone for it, anyway he can...

"OK, Gonta promise to be careful," Gonta said amiably, as they finally reached to the dormitories and Gonta opened the door as they slowly made their way to Kaito's.

"Thanks, man," Kaito said, before going into his room. Gonta hoped he will be OK. He really wished that they could get out of the killing game soon. He really wanted to attack the Exisals. Without Exisals, Monokuma powerless, but the rest of his classmates vetoed it because they wanted him not to sacrifice himself.

... Then what can Gonta do? After what happened with Kokichi and Miu, Gonta was getting more desperate... and the fact that Kaito was most definitely sick... even if he lies about it... Gonta really wanted to save everyone!

But he doesn't know how...

He wishes for Atua to give him an answer, and when he did so, Kokichi came out of his room, holding a bunch of things wrapped up in some black cape.

Immediately, Gonta zeroed on Kokichi, remembering what Kaito said about Kokichi acting weirder and how true that was considering the events that happened. Although Gonta rather believe what Kokichi was doing would be harmless, at the same time it won't hurt to inquire his doings.

"Ouma-kun, what are you up to?" Gonta asked.

Kokichi seemed shock to see Gonta before he just gave his signature grin, and said, "Just exploring 'round the school. Y'know, I can't be cooped up in my room forever, or else I will die of boredom!"

"Huh? Die of boredom? Then, Gonta make sure you won't be bored!" Gonta said.

"Nihishishi. No need to do that, I can keep myself pretty entertained, so you don't need to do anything. I better be going now~" Kokichi said, leaving with that cape bundle.

If Gonta didn't know better, he was sure that Kokichi was pushing people away from him and wanted to be alone... for something.

"Gonta still want to do something for Ouma-kun, because he sure more fun hanging out with friend," Gonta said.

Kokichi turned around, his face flitting a surprise look before his face relaxed into a small grin, "You sure about that...? I can be tiring~"

"Gonta sure," Gonta said, resolute. He wanted to use as much time as he can to know more about Kokichi anyway. The more he know about his friends, the more he can help them better.

Sometimes, Gonta thought, if he knew some friends like Rantaro, Kaede, Ryoma, Kiyo... then maybe...

But Gonta banished the thought, returning to the present.

"It could be super duper evil~" Kokichi said.

"If it is, then Gonta stop you, but Gonta think Ouma-kun shouldn't be evil. Only evil is Monokuma. No need more evil," Gonta said earnestly.

"But... what if I want to be evil... after all, it's not so boring..." Kokichi said with a devious smirk, but Gonta was undaunted.

"There are a lot of fun things besides being evil, Ouma-kun. And Gonta know that evil is act. Gonta don't know why, but Gonta sure Ouma-kun not really evil, so Gonta believe what Ouma-kun doing is not evil and Gonta want to help. Even if evil, Gonta will stop you so you won't regret anything."

In the end, Gonta didn't know what Kokichi was after, why he does such things and why he made himself difficult or hated, but Gonta knows one thing and believes it no matter what. Kokichi was not truly evil, he even had some of his softer sides.

Even after that failure of the Insect Meet and Greet, even if Gonta knew that Kokichi hated bugs, it was surprising that after a few days, Kokichi was one of the few people to offer looking for bugs when Gonta professed to see some in the courtyard.

It also surprised him to find Kokichi injured along the way to the Shrine because he was helping investigating. He injured himself to investigate and avenge someone's death. Because he cared... Gonta believed after he insisted to clean up the wound.

And after the trial, when he nudged Himiko to release all her feelings with the result afterwards that she expressed herself much better as Tenko wanted. It might be a rude way of doing it, but he was glad that Himiko was able to move on...

Maybe in due to releasing her feelings after Kokichi goaded her.

Gonta decided Kokichi was never evil, just tricky and not good at being nice... he just wanted to be a friend, saving people like Kokichi and making sure they don't do anything they regret...

A small frown seemed to appear on Kokichi's face before he settled to a wide grin, "OK, no take backsies! But what I'm going to do is super duper secret, so whatever happens must stay secret or else I will kill you!"

"Ouma-kun should no joke about that," Gonta said, after wincing at his words.

Kokichi now looked bored as he sighed, "Aww man, no one can take a joke these days. How boring..."

Then, he snapped back to his grin and with sparkling eyes, "Now come servant, we have a lot to do on this fine day..."

Gonta smiled a little, as Kokichi led the way, in his childish antics. That side of him was cute... and so he didn't mind playing along...

'If he didn't act the way he was, he would have friends...' Gonta remembered what Kaito said.

However, Gonta knew that Kokichi might never change. Despite that, the way Kokichi was acting wasn't in any way totally bad, so it's possible to be friends with him.

Because that's what gentleman... no, Gonta wants, be friends with everyone, for Kaede's promise and because... he actually liked all the people here and was... always, always sad when they were gone...

He didn't want to be sad that way again, ever.

Chapter Text

"Ugh..." Miu said, as she was inventing some kind of laser gun and muttering to herself.

"Can I really be useful...?" Miu asked herself.

After the VR fiasco, and what she found out that Kokichi was doing... Miu who wanted to be useful to gain recognition... found out she wasn't really useful at all.

Miu always wanted to show the world her greatness by making a great invention, but she can't even help her classmates with said inventions? What a joke. How can she help the world when she can't help the people here?

The sooner she makes something that could potentially get them out of the killing game, the better...

So why didn't she think of doing something like this in the first place? In fact, the only reason why she invented the Electrohammers and Electrobombs was because Kokichi suggested in the first place.

'Thank God that your mind is only filled with dildos and innuendos...' Miu remembered, Kokichi's voice drifting in her mind, taunting her but Miu vehemently ignored it.

Because that's not fucking true. She's a fucking genius! She just didn't think of using her inventions to get out of the killing game was because...

Because she was scared of Monokuma! Who wouldn't be?! The thing starting the killing spree and all that. Miu was worried that if she lashed out at Monokuma in some form, she will be toast. Look what almost happened to Kaito after he blatantly went to attack Monokuma when the First Blood Perk happened. Even if it was a close call, it still spoke a whole lot of volumes. Hell no way she wanted that.

She didn't want to risk herself. Simple as that.

Yet... she could have prevented many deaths, technically, if she had invented useful gadgets as she was trying now, and they could have escaped altogether, but... Miu was a coward. What was the use of making inventions if they could potentially fail...?

Wait, no, they won't fail. She was the Ultimate Inventor for God's sake. None of her inventions failed.

No, the correct question was what was the use of making inventions which could defeat Monokuma but at the same time put everyone including her at risk if they used them to fight back against Monokuma?

Even with her inventions, there was no guarantee that Monokuma wouldn't find some way to retaliate against them. After all, the bear seemed very adamant with the killing game that he pulls so many strings to make it happen.

With that in mind, Miu just... folded, and decided everything was fine. Just stay in the Lab, hope that someone found a way to escape someday and stay low so that no one killed her.

But the murders, the executions, death... they are always near, and guess that last Flashback Light was her last straw. Because if the outside world is not safe and this place was never safe...

Then, what did it mean to escape? Miu refused to believe that there was no way that there was no such thing, and she wanted to prove it wrong with her own eyes. That's why she came up with the murder plan, but of course it's not without its own risks...

But for some reason, it seemed easier. It just looked easier than defying Monokuma in an open way.

But when plans fail and you still want to escape, desperately... basically Miu went to the last resort, risking to openly defy Monokuma with making inventions that could possibly help out in this situation, even if she still didn't trust her classmates much, still worried about betrayal... but right now... it seemed the only option. She hoped she wasn't going to die from this...

As she was lost in thought, Miu was tweaking the laser gun that she was making which has similar properties of the Electrohammers and Electrobombs. If trying to get rid of the Exisals, the Electrobombs might be OK, but not the Electrohammers. It was suicidal to go for close range attack at all, if you are risking to be torn apart by the Exisal. A long range weapon was far less riskier, giving space to dodge the Exisal, or maybe they could use it to shoot Monokuma and leave him disabled and thus defeat him...

And after that...? There was the End Wall. How do you get past that?

Miu could always create an actual bomb and destroy the End Wall, she guess, but that could fail, considering she had no idea of the strength of the End Wall...

Or is there an easier way to escape? After all, with talk of graduation, there's bound to be an exit. Miu decided to think about that, and finally thought that maybe graduation was when Monokuma would disable all the traps of the Death Road of Despair and let the blackened exit from there...

Miu wonders if this was the use of the Electrohammers, after all... swing it at a trap and disable it, and push through...

Miu finally done the laser gun, an Electrolaser, she deemed, and decided to test it before she could mass produce it. She took the first electronic device she could see and immediately shot at it.

The electronic device fizzed before it blacked out.

Miu cheered, "Hoo yeah! I'm a fucking genius!"

But suddenly, the electronic came back to life, and Miu frowned. Seems the effects don't last long, though. Should cross reference with the Electro-

CRASH!

"What the fuck?!" Miu shouted, before looking around and seeing Gonta and Kokichi at her Lab with Gonta looking horrified next to a box of inventions that fell over and Kokichi looking seemingly innocent as he was putting the Bugvac inside his bundled cape.

"When the fuck did you get into my Lab?!" Miu demanded.

"Sorry," Gonta apologized, "Ouma-kun just told Gonta it wouldn't be gentlemanly to disturb you while you are hard at work so we didn't."

"But you scared the ever loving shit out of me!" Miu shouted.

"Sorry," Gonta apologies again, while Kokichi just smiled amiably, not even apologizing for his intrusion.

"What the fuck are you doing?" Miu asked, pointing to Kokichi, as he was searching through the Lab and getting random things before finally satisfied.

"Just getting some things..." Kokichi said cooly.

"Does my Lab looked like a fucking warehouse? Get your hands off my inventions!" Miu shouted, having a particular clinging towards her inventions... which she didn't before. Maybe, in here, they just hold some sentiment.

"Hey, I commissioned the Bugvac so why can't I take it?" Kokichi asked.

"Well... er... fine," Miu relented, "But what about the other stuff? Don't think I'm blind to not see you hogging some of my babies!"

"Ew! You call your inventions your babies. Are you really that lonely to start deluding yourself like that? And anyway... those babies are actually mine."

Miu backtracked that conversation a little before spluttering, "Wha- what?"

Kokichi let out a childish smile as he let out his signature laugh.

"Nishishi. Do you know it's so easy to break into your Lab? It's like you don't even notice the intruders that come and go... I always come here and do a little tinkering for fun when I'm bored but sometimes I can't because you and Kii-boy are getting at it," Kokichi started making air quotes, "Seriously, go to the Love Hotel, bitch. My virgin eyes can only take so much..."

"Well, it's your fault for breaking in without knocking, so take that damn handful and fuck your virgin eyes. Your just jealous that you can't have some of the goodies yourself!" Miu said, angry that Kokichi, who had a look of disgust at Miu's words right now, has been breaking and entering her Lab, "Next time, I will put a damn lock to this Lab!"

"Go ahead and try! You are talking to a person who can lock pick," Kokichi said, looking all smug.

"Oh yeah? How about electronic locks? Not even your lock picking tools could pick that!" Miu shouted triumphantly.

"Bitch please. You are talking to someone who has ascended basic lock picking. No doors are closed for the great Kokichi Ouma!"

"Wanna bet?" Miu asked, and soon enough, they were going off tangent with the argument. It should be annoying as hell, but Miu somehow had a sense of familiarity in the arguments despite the vulgar jokes and heated words. After that VR fiasco, this seemed about normal... comfortable...

After all, for some reason, the arguments weren't really hurtful. They do have a way of turning her on...

"Mmm... Gonta glad that you two are good friends after all..." Gonta suddenly interrupted their banter, having cleaned up the box of inventions and putting them back in place while looking at Miu and Kokichi.

But he was in no way uncomfortable or anything, just smiling, as if he was saying that to himself, but both Miu and Kokichi of course heard it.

They stopped talking and now just looked at each other, as if assessing each other, surprise showing at both faces from Gonta's statement.

Good friends? Yeah right. They no longer could trust each other after what happened... and even before then, did they even trust each other, let alone were friends?

Right now, it's like some kind of act, just forgetting about those events when speaking together, but not really... because it was simply comfortable that way, no awkwardness because they didn't want to raise the suspicions of any of their classmates... thus acting normal.

At the same time, Miu was slightly willing to put aside and gain the trust of the gremlin while she hopes he does the same for her. There was no going back after broken trust but they could fix some of it. And Miu rather that than the both of them going their separate ways. But why?

... Because of their something? Because she wanted to be useful to one of the people who acknowledges her as such. Because she knows despite his annoying attitude, Kokichi was smart enough to be a good ally to get out of this hellhole?

... Fuck if she knew.

Miu was the first one who broke the silence, "Hey... what the fuck you two virgins are up to that you had to sneak into my Lab?"

"Hmm... I'm just collecting some stuff and I'm gonna sow chaos around. Nishishi!"

"No, chaos is bad!" Gonta cried at Kokichi while Miu looked skeptical. Even if the guy was a pain in the ass, Miu could see that mostly there was a method to his madness, such as the Insect Meet and Greet for the motive videos, and her inventions for his plans... so, even though no doubt Kokichi was going to sow chaos, the purpose was definitely for something else other than chaos itself.

"Really... what are you doing?" Miu asked.

"Aww man... you don't believe me?" Kokichi asked.

"You are a liar," Miu pointed out.

"You got me!" Kokichi said, completely unbothered. Meanwhile Gonta spoke up.

"Iruma-san want to hang out with us?" Gonta asked.

"Why?" Both Kokichi and Miu asked.

"Gonta know you guys still a little awkward around each other, and Iruma-san might not be comfortable with Gonta too after that. So, Gonta think that if we spend time together, then we can fix things with each other so no more awkwardness between each other. Because Gonta still want to help you two," Gonta said.

Gonta... he really does have a gentle soul to even try to fix things between each other even if he rightfully would rather avoid Kokichi after such an incident and no longer bother with both of them, out of guilt and shame. But he still persists.

Miu would have shot back that she was busy with her shit and have no time, but at the same time... hanging out wouldn't necessarily be bad.

Also she wanted to know what Kokichi was up to. If he has an idea to escape the game, in anyway no matter what, then Miu will take the opportunity!

"Of course. Sure you need someone to rein and keep an eye on that gremlin from doing so much trouble anyway, and it would be a good time to test out some of my inventions anyway," Miu said, grinning with a mad scientist vibe that Gonta was oblivious to and smiled back.

Kokichi was not happy and pouted.

"What...? I'm not a child and can handle myself. You don't have to keep an eye on me, you are not my mom!" Kokichi whined.

"Tell that to your non-existent growth spurt, you baby shota!" Miu shouted happily.

"Oi, height discrimination!"

"Like I fucking care!"

Miu laughed and thought that maybe hanging out with Kokichi and Gonta won't be so bad... rather than staying cooped in her lab. Who knows, she could actually help with something.

***

Kokichi didn't know what to do... at the very start, he wanted to do things alone, but he somehow got Miu and Gonta sticking to him, even after what happened...

In different circumstances, Miu and Gonta would already be dead and he would probably be all alone, sans Shuichi who seemed one of the only people other than Gonta that didn't mind the liar all too much and one that he wanted to offer an alliance to in hopes of ending this nightmare...

But even that was debatable if his plan worked and Shuichi refused his offer early on as he was shown to be a monster later who led Miu and Gonta to their deaths. Who would want to stick around with someone like that?

And they both knew it, yet instead of avoiding him, they both decided to hang around with him like he was good company, even after what he almost did to them. Ha, that's so funny, said no one ever.

"Ouma-kun need help with bundle...?" Gonta asked, and Kokichi realized his arms are getting tired from carrying the stuff plus the extra load... like they were about to drop.

"Nope," Kokichi said instead, rather not letting Gonta nor Miu seeing what he was bringing. ... Whether he should trust them with what he was going to do or not...?

Not.

They were in the killing game after all, and he was not Kaito. He just couldn't... trust so easily, despite Miu and Gonta knowing more about Kokichi than anyone else would, which made Kokichi possibly think they could be allies.

However, he wasn't sure that they would actually trust or follow his plans, let alone slip up and be a fresh target for the mastermind. He didn't want that...

In fact, he was pretty sure they will get all over his case with this, be too reckless and cause problems. Who needs that?

So instead, he went with the safer back up plan he wouldn't mind them seeing, and for the first time in forever, it would be nice to have partners in crime in doing something he hasn't done in a long time...

"What? You are going to do what now?" Miu asked, shocked when they reached the cafeteria and Kokichi laid out what he was going to do, the chaos he promised...

"Yup," Kokichi said, "I know it's too early and all, but I'm dying to put these up. I even wanna test 'em out, and I have two good victims to go!"

Miu backed away immediately while Gonta had a puzzled look.

"... You... you are lying, right?" Miu stuttered.

"Aw man... you got me, you two are gonna be victims along with the rest tomorrow... I can't wait to see everyone's faces! Nishishi!" Kokichi said.

"Gonta think this could be a little mean..." Gonta said.

"Mean, shmean... after all..." Kokichi said with a twisted grin, "Be careful what you ask for, that's what I say!"

Kokichi indeed promised chaos the next day with an upcoming motive, but it would be chaos Monokuma won't expect. In fact, there would be a little... revenge.

Kokichi proceeded to whisper what he was about to do, specifically for Monokuma, which led Miu to cackle out of laughter and Gonta give him a worrying stare...

"Ahahaha. This is going to be a hoot! I'm in!" Miu declared, a smile wide on her face. Kokichi knew that she would be down for revenge, after all that shit the bear pulled through, and really, all of them would love a little revenge on that bear.

"Gonta think a little too dangerous. What if Monokuma punish you for it?" Gonta asked.

Oh sweet, caring Gonta, but...

"The rules said that I cannot attack the headmaster, and this technically does not count as attacking," Kokichi said playfully.

"Yeah, and you know what? After all the bear did to us, this is the least we can do for him!" Miu shouted, getting more excited.

"Nishishi, and this time Monokuma is asking for it! So this sweetens the revenge," Kokichi said, rubbing his hands like a cartoon villain.

"Are you sure you... wait, Monokuma asked for it? What does Ouma-kun mean?" Gonta asked.

Kokichi just smiled and put his hands behind his head.

"Wait... does it have to do with some deal with Monokuma? I remember reading it from that mind reader!" Miu exclaimed and before he could hide it, his eyes widened in acknowledgement basically confirming Miu's assessment.

Gonta of course looked very uneasy about that and even more so when Kokichi smirked, saying, "I told you it would be super duper evil. You should have backed out when you had the chance!"

Gonta shook his head at those words, "No, Gonta still wouldn't backed out. Gonta just hope this isn't like the Insect Meet and Greet..."

Miu and Kokichi gulped at those words, memories suppressed coming back out, but Kokichi kept the smile, "I know what I'm doing, and really this place is getting boring, so why not have something spice things up!"

"I'm down for it," Miu commented, immediately reaching for the cape bundle that Kokichi left lying and before he could do anything, pulled out a few of his prank inventions he's been making at Miu's Lab whenever he broke in and was bored.

Note that Kokichi is no way Miu, so not necessarily an inventor, but when it came down to all that is joking, Kokichi was very well verse in prank machinery.

Luckily, Miu did not notice the other items and took out some of his inventions, "Holy fuck. This might not meet my golden brain standards, but they ain't bad and a half. If you were this good at the stuff, I wonder why you made me commission your stuff..."

"Nishishi. That's because a supreme leader lets his slaves do all the work, my inventing bitch," Kokichi said coolly.

"Wha... I'm not your inventing bitch, you shota!" Miu shouted.

"Yeah right, bow down to your Ultimate Supreme Leader!"

"Supreme Leader... more like Prankster with all the crap you pull out," Miu snorted, already gathering some of the inventions and smirking deviously as she muttered something under her breath.

But Kokichi did not hear her, as when she said Prankster... actually, it was a tittle more befitting him, truly, with his great pranks along with the rest of the group all over the world but there was one time in Russia with his gang... let's just say an incident there made the Ultimate Initiative give him the tittle 'Supreme Leader' instead and it was not like he didn't have any leadership skills... he was made somewhat the de facto leader for founding DICE and his leadership skills were put to the test which proved themselves during that incident.

Blast!

"Blergh!" Kokichi said, after being hit by a pie, and Gonta immediately went to Kokichi's side, immediately trying to clean it up... but Kokichi was now looking at Miu with a devious smile as she was holding his pie tosser that he was going to set around the walls and toss pies around.

But Miu up and used one against him, cackling as she did... and waving the machine around, "Bahahaha! So these do work! How does it feel getting wrecked, shota?"

Kokichi smiled, as if it was a funny joke, but he was not about to be daunted. Swiftly dodging Gonta's care, he threw something at Miu, which exploded smoke and made her cough...

"Eeugh! What the fuck is that?" Miu asked.

"A stink bomb for your dirty trick and your dirty mouth," Kokichi said, laughing.

Miu was coughing as she said, "Why you!" She also proceeded to go through the stack of prank inventions to pay Kokichi back.

Kokichi was still laughing as he said, "What you looking for? A way to wash out the stink? Don't worry, I got the perfect remedy for ya!"

Once again, Kokichi had taken out some cologne out from his pockets. What? He can put some on for his manliness.

"Eek!" Miu screamed, and Gonta was now joining the fray as he shouted, "Please stop fighting!"

But in the end, they all were indulging themselves into a prank battle, and all this time, Kokichi was laughing... truly laughing.

It nostalgically reminded him of days before this Academy when he was in his very own group DICE.

Pranks and petty crimes were the norm for DICE all over the world with their victims ranging banks to rich people... there was a little iffy time with a famous politician in America but that was so worth it.

From those pranks and petty crimes, sometimes they themselves would have a prank battle among each other.

As Miu was already pointing the feather gun at him, Gonta trying to stop as he frantically tried to get the inventions away from both Kokichi and Miu...

Kokichi retaliating with a toy gun that Gonta naively believed was real when he pointed it at Miu and was begging to put it down. So imagine his shock to just see Panta squirting out of it.

Gonta was relieved but joined the fray and shouted to stop this before someone gets hurt.

Miu and Kokichi were shouting back, "Don't be a downer!"

Going through all this... it mirrored the good times with DICE, with Jack, Ace, Queen, Hearts and the rest... when there were whoppe cushions, buckets of water, animals and food, surprise cross dressing...

Like what him, Miu and Gonta were doing now, Gonta ending up apologising as he took one of the inventions in hopes to calm the two of them down...

And Kokichi let out a boisterous laugh, not his signature one, not his condescending one, but one that rang out loud and true.

He... rarely had so much fun sans the time he played mind games with Shuichi. This... this was a very good feeling, and he felt glad that Miu and Gonta were there.

But...

Could Kokichi really trust them?

This somewhat reminded him of the times he spent with Shuichi, when the detective was willing to spend time with him and he always... always played games with a Shuichi as if testing him...

The detective always intrigued him, an enforcer of justice, a seeker of truth which even through the mask of lies was something Kokichi delighted at. He always wanted to see the might of truth against his lies. He always wanted to see justice prevail. It was very ironic for an evil supreme leader, but would you believe once upon a time he looked up to the police for always catching big bads?

And in the killing game, a detective was truly a valuable ally. However, he wasn't necessarily sure that he could wholeheartedly trust Shuichi...

Trust was a very dangerous thing, and despite how much time they spent... in the end, it was simply easier to work alone. In the case where Kokichi is 'incapacitated', Shuichi could follow his back up plan with that detective intuition of his but that's about it.

Kokichi could no longer bring himself to trust anyone in this stupid game. Even the best of people... fall hard.

Right now though... with Miu and Gonta, they surprisingly chose to be close to him, and although he had turned to both of them at times and have made them do his bidding without showing his true intentions...

Now they know his goal.

Now they could get in his way.

Now they were still hanging out with Kokichi despite what happened.

Why...?

But Kokichi will never know and instead asked a question that was now always at the back of his mind ever since his plan slipped...

'Could I bring myself to trust them...?'

Kokichi doesn't know, but as he continued the small prank battle, enjoying himself the same he initiates those mind games with Shuichi...

It was a nice change of pace after these stressful and evil days, when he can just be a little bit by himself, a little bit in the past...

Luckily, Miu and Gonta never bothered to check his bundled cape properly.

That was a lie.

***

"Gonta think enough already. Stop now," Gonta said firmly, finally holding Kokichi and Miu separately in one hand each and discarded their prank weapons.

"Aw, boo, you are no fun," Kokichi pouted.

"I was about to pay the shota back for the glitter..." Miu muttered.

"But cafeteria now in mess. Gonta surprised no one come here and found us out," Gonta said.

Miu and Kokichi swiftly looked away from Gonta, for that was true... Right now, the cafeteria was indeed a mess and it was very crazy that no one interfered at all.

They looked at the clock, and saw it was an hour to lunch. It would most probably be time for the rest to come later...

"Gonta think it time to clean up before others come," Gonta said, and started cleaning up the feathers, glitter and pie that were the commonality in the cafeteria.

Miu muttered a bit before joining in but Kokichi simply sat at one of the chairs with an authoritative, "Now clean up peasants!"

Of course Miu's response was "Fuck no," before dragging a whining Kokichi along even if he did say, "But Ultimate Supreme Leaders don't clean!"

It was promptly ignored. But Gonta was enjoying himself a little bit. After all, what they did was kinda tricky but not evil, and in the end, it made both Miu and Kokichi smile and hang out with each other better.

Maybe they are putting it behind them, that would be good.

... But whether Gonta can...

The answer to that is yes, but at the same time, he won't forget... That he almost did something unforgivable, so unforgivable that how could he become a gentleman, let alone call himself one... but he still tried, even when Gonta felt like he didn't deserve it... because he felt that his classmates needed someone like a gentleman on their side, one that can settle disputes and protect people. So, even if he no longer deserved it, Gonta still cling to gentlemanly virtues and tried to become one... also as a form of redemption.

And the form of redemption also included stopping any of his classmates from doing anything evil... especially Kokichi who unfortunately, no matter how much Gonta wanted to believe in the little good in Kokichi, has already done numerous evil things that warrant concern. Because gentleman, Gonta reasoned, always notices people doing evil things and stop them in the most gentlemanly way possible.

So, Gonta was already wary as he was cleaning, thinking about Kokichi's actions thus far... Gonta couldn't put his finger on it, but something was amiss. Then, his eyes averted to the bundled cape...

So, Gonta decided to check the bundled cape when Kokichi and Miu were too busy to notice his actions and found...?!?!

Miu and Kokichi both heard Gonta's gasp as in one hand he held both a shotput ball and a drone. Miu gasped as well, taking her hands straight to the drone while Kokichi muttered a curse under his breath.

"What? I've been wondering where my fucking drone is, and I'm sure as hell didn't see you take it. So you had it all along?" Miu accused, but Gonta was more worried about the shot put ball.

"Ouma-kun, what... what were you planning to do?" Gonta asked finally, because even with the guise of setting the cafeteria prank, where does a shot put ball even come to it?

He remembered accompanying Kokichi to the warehouse to get something's before heading to Miu's Lab. Gonta didn't question it but when did Kokichi even get the shot put ball?

Kokichi was always too tricky...

But what was the shot put ball for?

"Nishishi, super duper secrecy stuff that you and Iruma-chan must be level 10 friendship before I tell! Now, let's get back to cleaning before the others come, and I will be caught in the act! And hurry up and hide the stuff as we eat lunch 'coz I don't want anyone to know what I'm up to before the big reveal!" Kokichi said.

Gonta was reluctant, but decided to follow along. He gave one look at Miu, who had curiosity in her eyes, and a desperate air nodding slightly to him.

Kokichi didn't notice, which is a good thing.

It was very obvious; both Miu and Gonta wanted to get out of the killing game, as well as everyone else.

Both of them also know... that Kokichi was withholding something... something big.

Unfortunately, he refuses to open up and share whatever discovery that could possibly help them get out.

... Why?

Who knows?

After they are a quick lunch, Gonta just scooped Kokichi up and Miu was in his face.

Kokichi whined.

"I know you guys love me and all but you don't have to do all this for me."

Miu shook her head, "You are hiding something from us again. What is it?"

"And why should I tell you?" Kokichi asked with a shit eating grin.

"Because we want to help you. We also want to escape the killing game, and we know you are trying to end it. But Ouma-kun is hiding it even if we know. Gonta no understand, but Gonta think it OK to tell us..." Gonta gently coaxed.

Kokichi completely remained silent, until Miu grew frustrated.

"What the fuck are you so afraid of?" Miu demanded, "We know your schemes and plots and crazy as they are, they can help! But you are so afraid to show it to us! Didn't you think... for one second... that if you have spoken up sooner, if you made your intentions clearer, that we could all help you and we could all escape this game together?"

Kokichi glared at Miu, even if Gonta felt Miu made a good point. If everyone worked together to stop Monokuma and escape, they can... right?

So, why was Kokichi so cagey?

"How about you?" Kokichi asked cooly, looking at Miu, "You say that you are the gorgeous girl genius who could invent the best inventions, and if you are a genius like I know you are, you could very well create many inventions that could have gotten us out of the killing game. But you didn't do it. In fact, if I didn't come up with the Electrohammers and Electrobombs, you wouldn't be doing shit. So... don't you think for one second... that if you had invented faster, if you had racked your brains for an out, if you helped us... we could escape this game together?"

Miu backed away, her mouth agape as a fish. Kokichi smirked as he continued, "Then don't be a hypocrite and admonish me for what you are doing yourself. In fact, I am perfectly fine handling things myself and don't need you peasants."

"That's wrong," Gonta said bluntly.

"Excuse me?" Kokichi asked, a slight tone of surprise, but seemingly there just to add a dramatic effect to the conversation... maybe.

Gonta was thinking... thinking hard, as flashes of his dead friends came to mind. He really didn't want that anymore, and...

"Gonta don't want Ouma-kun to handle everything by himself. Gonta think Ouma-kun need friends to help him when in trouble. Because... Amami-kun and Akamatsu-san, they... tried to save us from the killing game by themselves... but are... dead. Gonta think... Gonta want... Ouma-kun to rely on friends so... it won't happen..."

Most of the time, Gonta really didn't understand anything, but Miu... Kokichi... he already knows they are putting themselves in harm's way, especially Kokichi... and... Gonta can't stand that. Gonta wanted no more death, for all the friends who died, he wanted the rest to live.

He didn't want anybody making stupid sacrifices, even if he himself had make some for them. That was why he was so determined to take down the Exisals and only backed down thanks to the empathetic protests of his classmates.

In this case, at the very least...

"Friends," Kokichi mused, "Is there such a thing in a killing game?"

"Is there...?" Miu muttered to herself.

This simply made Gonta confused, as he said, "Aren't we all friends? We all want to get out of here. The only enemy is Monokuma and all of us are stuck in the same situation so like what Akamatsu-san and Momota-kun said, we are all friends in this situation who want to escape together!"

It was simple as that, and Gonta wholeheartedly believed it. After all, what is the use of being the enemy here when they were all kidnapped together and just share the same goal to escape.

However the way that both Kokichi and Miu are looking at him says that it's way more complicated than that. Gonta was confused.

"... Why silent? Did Gonta say something wrong?" Gonta asked, albeit timidly.

It was then that Kokichi spoke up.

"Friends... never existed in this killing game. If they did, then don't you think that there would be 16 of us instead of 9? That if we were all friends, then no one will have killed each other...? Monokuma is right after all. In a situation like this, we are all enemies here."

It broke Gonta's heart to hear such a statement from Kokichi and knew that when he looked at Miu, she shared the same sentiments.

"Gonta think that wrong," Gonta said, shaking his head.

Despite what Kokichi said, Gonta still decided to believe in heart that his friends weren't enemies, because they didn't really come from a bad place... they never really had malicious intent... well minus Kiyo, but he did... have a reason.

And after all the time spent together...

"In the end, Monokuma is the real enemy and we should just stop him. But if we think others as enemies, then... we can't stop Monokuma. That's what Gonta believes."

And really, Gonta truly believed that. Kokichi was wrong when he said they were all enemies because in actuality it was Monokuma himself.

Gonta remembered that he promised to bring both Miu and Kokichi to the right direction. He didn't want them to doubt others to the point that they will do something they will regret.

Never mind the fact that they already almost did.

Kokichi still remained silent, until Miu sighed.

"Actually, Gonta brings a good point. Monokuma is our real enemy. He's the one who started and manipulated this killing game. And we want out. We all know that you have at least an idea on such a thing but you won't share. But will that really benefit?" Miu asked.

"Ouma-kun, in the end... you do need friends to help you. Gonta don't know about Iruma-san, but Gonta believes that you can help us and Gonta really want to help too, before anything bad happens... so, please..." Gonta said.

Kokichi remained silently still, but before they could do anything more, the door opened. In surprise, Gonta accidentally dropped Kokichi.

He was about to apologize to Kokichi before seeing he was somehow no longer there.

Miu who was also shocked at the moment muttered, "Sneaky fucker," before looking to see who was interrupting the... chat.

Gonta and Miu saw that it was Himiko and Tsumugi who seemed to be surprised to see the both of them.

Whatever prank and chaos that happened in the cafeteria was swept away without a trace, yet when Tsumugi and Himiko were looking at them, it seemed like they knew that they were doing something amiss.

"My my," Tsumugi said, "What a rare pair to find..."

"And what's wrong with that, plain Jane?" Miu asked with a huff which Tsumugi recoiled until she let out an answer.

"Well... it's strange to see the two of you together since you are so... different. You know, the innocent gentle giant and the blonde rude loudmouth. Makes me wonder why you guys are here together unless..." Tsumugi said, a look of curiosity in her eyes replaced with slight horror at a single thought.

It was Himiko who voiced it out, "You think they were doing it, aren't you Shirogane?"

"It?" Gonta asked with his head tilted to the side. What were they talking about?

Miu huffed, "As much as I wanted to, it ain't the case this time, plain Jane and magic loli. Just having a damn lunch for myself and just met big lug along the way..."

"Well, just wondering because Iruma-san, you are that kind of person..." Tsumugi said.

"If you wanted to fuck with me, just say so!" Miu said to which Tsumugi squawked indignantly.

"No... that's not what I-"

"Then, stop sounding so jealous when you accused me of fucking the guy... if that's all there is to it, I ain't sticking round with you bozos. I'm outta here," Miu said.

Gonta was sure he understood nothing of that conversation so was just politely confused until Miu walked out. Gonta decided to follow her.

Gonta did one last sweep, Gonta saw that Kokichi really did disappear along with that bundled cape of his.

Somehow that disappointed Gonta because he felt that maybe... maybe, he was finally getting through to Kokichi.

Apparently not.

Before getting out, he was stopped by Tsumugi who said, "Wait."

"What is it, Shirogane-san?" Gonta asked.

"Why are you hanging out with Iruma-san?" Tsumugi asked.

"Gonta just wanted to hang out with Iruma-san because Gonta think she a little lonely. Gonta think Iruma-san needed a bit of company."

"Are you sure?" Tsumugi asked, "After all... Iruma-san can be a..."

Tsumugi seemed to be searching for the right word before Himiko supplied, "Handful..."

"Yeah, that," Tsumugi said, "I just worry for you, Gonta-kun. You are too innocent and sweet for something to happen..."

Gonta smiled, touched from Tsumugi's concern but nevertheless...

"Shirogane-san, Gonta fine. Gonta doing this because he doesn't want anyone to be lonely because all of us promised to be friends when we get out."

"Nyeh... how nice can you be?" Himiko asked, before she finally walked to the cafeteria to make something.

Gonta wondered about the question. What's wrong with being nice?

Gonta has a few flashbacks, the time when he was younger, and still big... when he tried to make friends his age... but the kids were all... not nice.

They always threw rocks at him and called him a monster. They always called him gross when he played with the bugs instead because no one wanted to play with him. They were not nice.

So what was wrong with being nice?

"Hmm... what's wrong with being nice?" Tsumugi repeated Gonta's question out loud. Did Gonta actually say it out loud?

"Actually, Gonta-kun... of course it's not wrong to be nice, but being too nice can be taken advantage of. Sometimes, there are people in the world that would take advantage of those type of people and use them..." Tsumugi said.

"But Gonta don't think Iruma-san would take advantage of Gonta?" Gonta said, but for some reason it came out as a question. Guess he can't take back that fiasco, huh? When Kokichi...

"Who knows?" Tsumugi asked, "You are really sweet but a bit naive, Gonta. I just think you need to be... more careful, and think a little before believing others."

"Yeah... don't worry Gonta. I will cast a 'Careful' spell for you so that your innocence will live another day," Himiko finally said as she looked at Gonta with a sleepy smile before going into the kitchen.

Gonta didn't really understand what Himiko meant, but nevertheless, he said, "Thanks, Yumeno-san."

There was a faint, "Your welcome," from the kitchen so at least she heard him.

"I better get some food," Tsumugi muttered to herself, "It's nice chatting with you, Gonta-kun, but I plainly think it's time we say our goodbyes."

And she too went into the kitchen, which gave Gonta something to think about...

Being too nice... was wrong? But to be gentleman, he had to be nice. Well, after that fiasco, he didn't deserve to be gentleman, but still...

Yet Gonta understood where Tsumugi came from, about being taken advantage. And Gonta doesn't think that gentlemen were taken advantage of easily. It looks like Gonta still had a long road ahead to being a gentleman... if he can rightfully walk down that path again, that is...

'Could Gonta really be gentleman?' Gonta thought to himself.

He just had to learn regardless, as he was doing now in setting Miu and Kokichi down a right path after that fiasco, and maybe setting himself down the right path together by helping them...

And he will have many opportunities once he saw Miu who was apparently waiting for him, said, "Now, let's find the twink."

Chapter Text

"What?" Gonta asked.

"Did I fucking stutter?" Miu asked instead.

Miu strode away while Gonta followed.

"So... where do you think Ouma-kun is now...?" Gonta asked timidly.

"The damn library, that's where," Miu huffed.

"Why?" Gonta asked, his head tilted in confusion.

"Well, where the fuck else could he be? I mean, he has that damn shot put ball, and my drone which I used to take aerial pictures of the library. Whatever he is planning has to be there!" Miu declared with certainty as they headed to the library.

"Oh, Iruma-san is smart," Gonta complimented.

"Oh fucking course I am," Miu bragged, as they walked and didn't talk much. And the silence stretched...

And stretched...

"Iruma-san OK?" Gonta finally asked.

"I'm as OK as I will ever be. Why are you asking?" Miu asked.

"Gonta noticed Iruma-san looking uncomfortable, so Gonta ask..." Gonta said, fidgeting a little.

Miu almost scowled, but she kept it in. What did Gonta expect? He almost killed her, and he was here with her with absolutely no witnesses...

Even though he had many opportunities to kill her in the moments afterwards in his first attempts when they were alone together... but Miu can't just stop being uncomfortable.

And regardless knowing it was Kokichi's fault all along... the fact that Gonta, Gonta who wants to be a gentleman, always protects his friends, the kind of guy who would never hurt a fly, Gonta of all people...!

"Iruma-san... Gonta think you lying about not being uncomfortable. Gonta sure it because of that... but-"

"But? But what?! You almost killed me!" Miu almost shouted but managed to keep her voice low. The fact that Miu was almost killed... and her would be killer is...

Miu knew Gonta was manipulated by Kokichi but that does not make him innocent. At any time, he could have refused... and he didn't. It scared her... the fact that someone actually almost killed her.

Miu knew that it could happen at anytime, but it did not mean she was prepared for it. And more than anything, she wanted to live. Seeing death just made her feel she couldn't even accomplish everything she wanted to do. Never made up the years she lost...

After the car crash, Miu went into coma for a few months losing that precious time although she did get her Ultimate in exchange for it. But Miu felt vulnerable and behind thanks to it, with her peers seeming more ahead of her even if she did catch up eventually. Thanks to that, she wanted to never waste her life like that again which is why she wanted to make inventions that could help people live despite being in coma like her, to live their life to the fullest... which Miu couldn't do right now being stuck here...

Which was why she wanted to escape, was ready to kill, was so scared of death which was similar to her coma but more final.

And the reason why she was sticking with Gonta and Kokichi, hoping that they have something that could help them get out of here, especially Kokichi even after that incident, common sense would dictate her to stay far away from them. Thank God that Miu Iruma does not bother with the laws of common sense, she makes her own!

"But Gonta really regret that incident," Gonta said, not mentioning anything about the k-word, as if he wanted to avoid it, "And he think that if not in killing game, Gonta and Iruma-san would make good friends..."

Miu scowled at that. He might think that, but Miu for the life of her couldn't see herself interacting with the giant gentleman. He's a nice person sure, but he's also not smart enough to be her friend, to hold intelligent conversations or understand her achievements...

"But Gonta still want to be Iruma-san's friend now, because Gonta want to atone for what he almost did..."

"So this is because of guilt, huh?" Miu asked swiftly, looking at a now flustered Gonta.

Miu crosses her arms. The fact that Gonta wanted to be friends with her out of guilt didn't sit well with her. It just meant that if circumstances had been different... and she didn't really want to have anything out of pity. It just makes her some kind of sad cause...

"Nothing like that!" Gonta immediately protested, "Its just... Gonta wished things were different, but right now, even if Iruma-san doesn't forgive or afraid of Gonta, Gonta just want to help Iruma-san and be friends with her. Because he doesn't want Iruma-san to be scared of Gonta after that. He wants everyone to get out of here together as friends!"

Again with that friends escape together bullshit. In other words, Kaede's promise... no matter what, even with all that happened, he's still clinging to it...? Miu wished she could share the same sentiment, but she wasn't stupid. After all, their 'friends' always gave in to the urges too kill and make this place a freaking hell.

"And Gonta feel... we need each other more than ever. Gonta has been doing a lot of stupid things lately... the Insect Meet and Greet, failing to do Student Council duties that Angie-san was killed, wanting to fight the Exisals, almost k-... the Killing Game Busters... how could Gonta be a gentleman after all that?!"

Gonta was now choking up and this somehow made Miu uncomfortable in a different way... she wasn't adept at comforting people in these type of situations. Then again, she didn't have any practice on that whatsoever.

"So Gonta feels... especially to Iruma-san, Gonta wants to improve, be better and help...! So, even if Iruma-san uncomfortable or scared of Gonta, Gonta will continue helping her whenever she needs it. So, if Iruma-san has any problems, Gonta promises to help!"

A part of Miu was actually touched by this and wanted to believe it wholeheartedly, but her cynical self snorted derisively at those words, because after all they were words, and words do not hold any power here, easily turned into lies, when people turn their backs towards such statements. It has happened all before, after all.

Despite that, the least she could do for Gonta, especially now with little to no allies and in need of anyway to escape, she could offer him her neutrality. She was still sour about the event, sure, but the aftermath proved to be too complicated for one person to handle and Miu needed all the help she can get...

"Do whatever the fuck you want, alright?" Miu finally said with a small smile, "It's not like I'm the boss of you or anything, ya know?"

Gonta managed to give a warm smile, as he said, "Gonta will not let you down."

Miu didn't respond to anything of a kind, because even when Gonta said it, Miu can't bring it in herself to truly believe it. It would be nice, but she long since learned the world was too cruel to let words uttered come true.

The silence once again stretched but it was a little more easy as if some of the heaviness had been lifted, and before they knew it, they reached out to the library, and Miu, putting a lip to her fingers to indicate silence from Gonta, she opened the door and sneaked into it with surprising stealth, especially for someone as big as Gonta.

And they were met with a surprising sight.

What met their sight was the dead body of Rantaro Amami on the floor, blood drying his head next to a shot put ball in front of Kokichi who was looking at the body and soon comparing with a photo on hand and flipping a notebook at the other.

Gonta couldn't help let out a gasp which Miu stifled with her hand but unfortunately that was enough noise in the silence for Kokichi to look up and frowned. Putting down the photos and notebook, he picked up the Bugvac which was actually next to him the whole time and started vacuuming around before looking around the library.

With a smile, he immediately approached where they immediately hid. Miu hoped he wouldn't spot them but that was futile.

"I may be good at hiding, but you guys are not, especially Gonta! Did you really expect anyone with eyes to seriously not find you guys so obviously hidden that it's not even hidden!" Kokichi said, now poking at both Miu and Gonta who thought it would be a great idea to hide under one of the tables of the library.

Well, sue them... there weren't many hiding places!

"Well fuck you too," Miu said as a response as she and Gonta got out of their hiding places and faced the shorter male, who was looking around and continued vacuuming aimlessly.

"What...?" Gonta said, but he seemed to be struck speechless, mostly at the fact of Rantaro Amami's dead body there. Sure they had seen it before, but who was to expect that they would see it again? After all, all the victims, they were always gone after the investigation, their bodies nowhere to be found again, so this...

"Oh, you are talking about my beloved Amami-chan's dead body... Oh, how sad is it to see him gone again..." Kokichi said morosely.

"'Gone again...'?" Gonta asked, slightly flustered and looking everywhere but the body.

"Oh, didn't you know... Amami-chan has been alive all this time? It's too sad that he had to be murdered in the exact same fashion again, and woe is me... I had to discover the body, but that was because I killed him! Don't want a zombie running around, do we?" Kokichi asked, a wicked smile gracing his lips.

"Wha...?" Gonta was extremely flustered now and couldn't even think... because the body did look real, but...

"That's a fucking lie," Miu said firmly.

What Kokichi said was so outrageous that it could never be believed. Zombies, yeah right. They are not in some kind of cheap horror flick of poor taste, well... poorer taste because this killing game is of very poor taste to her. Slice of life and cartoons would be a better setting to Miu.

"The body is definitely fake," Miu declared, now approaching the body of Rantaro... fake Rantaro, which she soon saw was a pretty accurate wax sculpture of him, eyes open and a little unmoving, but still.

"Damn, is it the open eyes or the position? I can't position it the way I want to, so I had to make do..." Kokichi whined, with Miu and soon Gonta came along, now staring at the fake dead body with the fake blood.

"Where did you get that fake body and fake blood?" Miu asked aloud.

"Warehouse," Kokichi said with a wiggled eyebrow, "Pepto bismol makes for good blood, ya know?"

"But there is no way the body came from the warehouse," Miu said.

"But the warehouse has everything, Iruma-chan. Of course they have stock of fake bodies!" Kokichi said in glee.

"Not fake bodies they do not," Miu said firmly, "Plus, I felt like I have seen that one before..."

"Oh," Gonta said in a gasp of realization, "Gonta remembers now. Isn't this one of the wax sculptures Angie-san made for ritual?"

Miu now remembers too. She had seen those wax sculptures; Rantaro, Kaede, Ryoma and Kirumi in Angie's Lab during that body discovery announcement...

Now is the question...

"Why on earth do you have Amami's wax sculpture?" Miu asked.

"Nishishi,"'Kokichi laughed but didn't answer.

"What? Don't tell me you had the hots for the avocado that you kept his wax sculpture? I didn't know you had it in-" Miu said, but was rudely interrupted.

"Eww. I'm not some gross pervert. That's your trope, Iruma-chan!" Kokichi declares with a bored look at his hand, "Anyway, if you are done drooling over the body, what do you want?"

"Wha- I am not drooling over the body. That's your kink, not mine!" Miu shouted while Gonta wasn't able to follow this conversation at all and remained woefully ignorant. Thanks to that, he was able to put this derailed conversation on track.

"Ouma-kun, what... what are you doing?" Gonta asked, and Miu looked at Kokichi too because she wanted to know too. In a place with few allies and idiots, Kokichi was one of the people she considered smart... and maybe an ally.

Even after everything that happened. Even after the little guilt simmering in her stomach. Miu knew... in the back of her mind, this might be penance for what she had done to Kokichi, because sometimes... she can't help think...

'If I didn't plan a murder, maybe all this wouldn't happen.'

She blamed the shota for his betrayal, but Miu was also self aware of her own wrongdoings. She can't be that blind to herself.

Maybe that's why even though her brain said to avoid him, her heart makes up excuses to stay with him, maybe an act of apology.

Kokichi laced his hands behind his head, "Oh, and what business is that of yours?"

"Well, Gonta know it rude to pry but at same time after what Ouma-kun did, Gonta rather know what he up to so he doesn't do something dangerous," Gonta said.

But Kokichi remained silent, not saying anything.

Miu groaned. Kokichi was always so difficult, and it wasn't helping any of them. So she said, "We can stand here forever having this stare down or you tell us what you are up to."

"And why should I tell you?" Kokichi asked.

Miu wouldn't profess she knew Kokichi but she long since realized that Kokichi rarely did anything without purpose so it was obvious he was up to something. She didn't know what, but if her gut feeling was right...

"Because if it has something to do with the killing game, any chance to escape, then I want in," Miu demanded.

Miu had enough of twiddling her thumbs and doing nothing like the rest of them. She had enough of going through this sickening game. She had enough of being stuck here any longer. She had enough of not doing anything of use.

Miu wanted to do something, anything that can get her out. Even if it was dangerous to trust the shota and giant after their history, she also didn't trust them not to actually succeed in any way to escape together without any help from this gorgeous girl genius.

And no matter what, she will get herself in this. As her eyes filled to the brim with determination and desperation gave a hard stare towards Kokichi that even he with his poker face rivaling experienced gamblers flinched at such a sight...

***

Kokichi thought he escaped them, but he was wrong!

Now here Kokichi was... in a situation where he was stared down by Miu and Gonta, asking questions he didn't want to answer.

If they knew... if the possibility is true... how would they react?

Before Miu and Gonta came, Kokichi was cross examining photos, creating the murder scene although slightly imperfect from just photos and vague memories...

And then, before he knew it, he was interrupted by Miu and Gonta who once again confronted him.

The lie detector and now this...? For the love of all the Panta grape goodness in the world, why?

Kokichi understood Gonta's need to watch out for him, but not Miu. After what happened, he was very sure that she wouldn't even approach within 10 feet of him and started throwing out a lot of spite at him.

Instead, she started hanging out with him, albeit the purpose of keeping a watch on him and now offering a hand in alliance when back then, Kokichi had to practically force her through manipulation when he needed her inventions.

Seriously, the world can really screw over sometimes...

But is it... is it... OK to let them in? To let them know... to incorporate them in his plans, despite the risks...

The risks...

"Gonta also want in. Ouma-kun, you should know... that it's dangerous to do things like this alone... don't you remember Amami-kun and Akamatsu-san?" Gonta added his piece.

Kokichi kept a blank look on his face but flinched inside. Once again, he was reminded of Rantaro and Kaede...

Rantaro and Kaede who actually were the most determined to end this game, the ones who worked alone to find the mastermind, the ones who started this accursed killing game even if they didn't want to, in the bad sense of wrong place, wrong time...

The ones that he vowed to and promised wholeheartedly to carry on their plans... when everyone else dismissed the mastermind claim and went back onto their lives, the ones he was inevitably following their footsteps, despite the risks there are and the repeating of the same mistakes.

The ones who might as well be innocent bystanders, both with clean hands if Monokuma's intel was right, and they died... for a farce.

And he vowed, right now, that despite what dangers Gonta spoke of, Kokichi was willing to take it, so he was very unfazed with that statement.

So, Kokichi was slightly impatient as he decided to ignore them and continue working. He had no time... before another string of a puppet is cut by the puppet master Monokuma. Of course, Kokichi didn't expect to resolve everything in one fell swoop, but still...

He looked at the aerial picture of the stacked books and then... he noticed it.

Rantaro's body and the books above the shelf... Kokichi had never noticed it. No one noticed it... why didn't they notice it? Even the detective, Shuichi didn't notice it... but that was because he had been sure, Kaede had been sure. At that time, it felt like the only option... that to say there was another possibility would be inconceivable.

Maybe that's why they didn't notice it.

Maybe that's why Kokichi didn't want to believe it without cold hard proof, especially when he with the others, were so sure... believed... didn't even...

"Huh? Ouma-kun, why are you crying?" Gonta asked, and Kokichi now realized that tears streamed his face and he wiped them off.

'Because I realized... Because there was a miscarriage of justice... Because there was a death that happened for absolutely no reason...' Kokichi wanted to say, but he was sure Gonta wouldn't understand.

After wiping the tears off, Kokichi felt tired. This game was rigged from the start and no one knew... if it was rigged, how much more lies was in store for this killing game? Lies that became their motives, lies that pull them apart, lies that made them scared, lies that have always misdirected them like a fake story that was not theirs, lies that people killed for, probably died... for nothing.

Suddenly, he felt himself in a bone crushing hug by Gonta who now whispered, "Is Ouma-kun... OK? Gonta don't know why you crying, but everything will be fine. If you tell Gonta what's wrong, then maybe he could help..."

Kokichi actually could barely hear those words, he almost felt his spine breaking and he was actually suffocating. Sometimes, Kokichi thinks that Gonta doesn't know his own strength. Luckily, Miu rescued him.

"Gonta, you are crushing the twink to death... literally. He looks like he's suffocating," Miu said to Gonta, and immediately, Gonta stopped hugging Kokichi and he could finally breathe, goddammit.

"Gonta so sorry, Gonta didn't mean to!" Gonta apologized profusely but Kokichi decided to shake his head and smile wryly.

"It's OK Gonta. You just don't know your own strength," Kokichi said, and Gonta smiled in relief.

"Yeah, Gonta be more careful..." Gonta said sincerely.

Miu huffed but narrowed her eyes at Kokichi, apparently thinking something. He didn't have the time. He needed one final confirmation... He backed away from the bookshelf before he saw that the books that Kaede used for her trap didn't look in anyway altered.

He needed one final proof. Even though he felt sure what happened, he wanted to make sure. After that VR fiasco, it just made Kokichi realize to be more through. Rantaro's body was placed where it was during the first case... he hoped. And off he went, holding a shot put ball in his hand before Miu immediately caught Kokichi's arm and now scowling.

"What are you doing? What is the point of all this? I thought you are trying to find a way out of the killing game... so what is all this?" Miu asked, question after question.

Kokichi cannot stop the smirk that graced his lips from her questions. Silly Miu. For Kokichi, games like this are meant to be played and won... completely.

And to just escape... didn't mean that he won completely. No, to win completely meant to crush the game, beat the game.

So... that's why he was doing things like this, which caused confusion, ire and suspicion among his classmates. Like right now, with Miu and Gonta.

It would have been easier if they hadn't been involved at all. But Miu wanting to kill him... tricking Gonta... and the fiasco...

Kokichi just had to make do. He knew with determination like that, it would be impossible to get them off his back. Not in the natural way that is.

"Nishishi. Would you like to know? Too bad I won't tell you!"Kokichi shouted with glee.

"Haah? Why not?" Miu asked, a little heated now.

"Because where's the fun in that?" Kokichi asked all too cheerfully, "After all, I'm a liar. How much would you believe me? Maybe I'm doing something important or I'm just messing around!"

Gonta wasn't sure about that.

"But aren't you worried that Monokuma would find what you are doing suspicious? Whose to say some idiots won't fall for those fake Flashback Lights and kill you because of some false memory?" Miu inquired.

Of course, both Gonta and Miu has absolutely no idea how far Monokuma's manipulation even goes, but they are already aware of the Flashback Lights and any memories given by the bear to be false, the VR incident being proof that they are only used to kill.

Why did they even trust anything the bear gave them in the first place?

He understood their worries but he also knew that it was because they wanted to help him, yet Kokichi was having none of that. If he did let them, Kokichi would be putting them in a path of danger and to him, game as this may be, it was also real life and not worth a risk of their lives when this time around, he was less desperate and it was more unnecessary.

Risking lives was something that he should never done in the first place, anyway.

"Nishishi. So...?" Kokichi asked to Miu's question, "No one can stop me, bringer of chaos and confusion! I just like to spice things up and all that. Plus, what's so suspicious of a little prank?"

"Prank?" Gonta asked.

"Yeah, what's wrong with a good jump scare of seeing your dead classmate's body again? It's thrilling," Kokichi said.

"We all know that's a lie," Miu declared.

"Nishishi," Kokichi laughed, "You have been very good at spotting the lies, huh, Iruma-chan?"

"Because I'm not playing around," Miu said, head held high and speaking determinedly to Kokichi, "We know that you are up to something and after what we know, it's definitely not a prank. But what... we don't know, and we will find out! And help!" Miu declared suddenly, with Gonta nodding profusely.

Kokichi smirked, amused by this turn of events and said, "Go ahead and try. That might not be so boring."

This could be said a challenge, just like all the mind games he used to play with Shuichi after he inquired about Kokichi's background and Kokichi took interest in the detective.

It was a challenge, but the reason behind them could be quite blur. It's up to them to figure out why he was doing stuff like this.

In Shuichi's case, Kokichi was mostly testing his intelligence and deduction skills, trying to see whether Shuichi can see his lies, although he himself liked to mess around and play with the detective...

To see whether he can come to actually see behind Kokichi's mask and prove his worth, be a worthy partner... and help him.

But it was not the case. It wasn't that Shuichi took anything Kokichi said at face value nor dismiss everything he said as lies. It was just that Shuichi couldn't pick them apart. Shuichi might always scratch the surface but he didn't dig any deeper beyond that.

Yet, Shuichi could be a remarkable ally with his budding detective skills, just not worthy being his partner although admittedly if the VR fiasco didn't happen, he might offer a hand to Shuichi in partnership, but he would never fully trust or rely on the detective.

Now, he had two possible allies, but unlike Shuichi, he was using this challenge to make them back off.

Miu and Gonta were now looking at him, their determination and resolution astounding.

So, Kokichi decided on the spot, when the painful truth rear it's ugly head, how long can that determination and resolution last? Will you guys cover your ears and close your eyes and lie to yourself? Will you stop looking and give up the notions? Will you give me up to the face of the unbearable truth I'm pursuing that you guys would want no part of?

Those were Kokichi's thoughts. Because overall, Kokichi knew it would be nice to have allies, but after the VR fiasco... for his new plan, he decided it was better to work alone.

There were less risks that way... although a sprinkle of truth, he might want allies, but with Miu and Gonta...

He wasn't sure that would be the right thing to do for their wellbeing...

"Well, if we want to know what's going on... then we better accompany you wherever you are going so we can figure it out, right?!" Miu asked, as if in demand, wanting to be in the know as quickly as possible.

"Nah..." Kokichi said, continuing being difficult, "Someone's gotta stay here coz two's company, three's a crowd. Three of us going together might spark something."

"Then I/ Gonta will go with you," Miu and Gonta said together at the same time, which made both look at the other.

Before Gonta could say anything, Miu said, "I know you want to keep an eye on the twink, but we know that this gorgeous girl genius is more than capable of finding out the twink's schemes."

Miu's mind seem made up, but Gonta seemed to have some doubts because the two of them...

"Nishishi, don't worry Gonta. What could possibly happen...? Plus, someone might as well stay here to explain all this..." Kokichi said, waving through Rantaro's body, "Just say this is Monokuma's doing, alright?"

Gonta still looked unsure and Miu caught on to it, as she said, "We learned our lesson last time, and we are not stupid to do anything when you are the last person to see us, and they will know..."

Gonta's doubt lifted up a bit before finally saying, "OK, Gonta stay here."

"Okie dokie, and if I were you, don't linger anywhere near the bookcases, alright?" Kokichi advised to a puzzled Gonta who did what he said anyway and seated himself in one of the chairs of the library, having taken a book from one of the bookshelves and was reading with interest. Probably about bugs.

With that, it was both Miu and Kokichi who left together, with so much between them yet nothing solved.

After all, this is the first time since that fiasco that they were together alone. When they betrayed each other...

So instead of even trying to make conversation, he decided to focus on what he's doing. If the final evidence showcased the contradiction that Monokuma had pointed out, it would mean one thing.

And reviewing the case, there could be only one type of person who could do it, who could have avoided the cameras and done the deed in cold blood, without getting caught in the 30 second camera interval at all...

Covered their tracks and be allowed to do so, when they voted wrong...

And among the remaining classmates, the most likely are... Tsumugi and Kiibo.

Kaito, Maki, Himiko and Miu have solid alibis. Shuichi also had one because Kaede had to set her trap first before Shuichi could even possibly do anything if he was the mastermind. But it would be impossible because he was with Kaede when the receiver went off and Kaede chased after him after her deed.

Kiibo and Kokichi has absolutely no alibi as they were in their rooms, so Kiibo is suspect.

Tsumugi and Gonta too because the former went to the girl's bathroom for a short while, enough to kill someone while the latter was holed up in the AV room, also in a short while enough to kill someone.

However, Gonta can be ruled out of being a supposed mastermind, not only because he was such an open book, but if he was the mastermind, he would have outright refused to put himself in danger to be an obvious blackened and had more chances of being executed than in the first case perfect crime...

So Tsumugi was a suspect. And all this hinges on the mastermind's lair...

Because how they could get past the cameras, there was the hidden door, and secret lairs 101, there is more than one entrance to them. So...

By the time his thoughts finished spiraling, they already reached the classroom, the classroom where the thought of blood started and put this killing game into full swing. Miu didn't say anything, just silently watching him although her eyes were narrowed in curiosity and question.

Trying to figure him out.

Kokichi laughed in his head, as he reached for the particular vent and yanked his open, that how can someone like Miu whose mind is filled with innuendos, machines and little less of anything else could ever hope to figure anything out of Kokichi Ouma himself when the detective himself couldn't?

'Even when I wanted someone to figure me out,' Kokichi silently thought, as he begun rolling the shot put ball down the vent, to Miu's still questioning glare. Really, it could bore holes behind his face already.

Kokichi half mused at the thought. It probably came from some deep loneliness within, making him miss DICE and their camaraderie that he craved right now.

"Hey, shota, what the fuck are you doing?" Miu asked, and Kokichi snapped out of his thoughts, realizing that he had been standing staring at nothing for the past few moments.

"That's for you to figure out, Iruma-chan. Because even if I tell you outright, I doubt you would believe a liar like me. Much more believing if your found out yourself, right?" Kokichi chirped.

Miu crosses her arms as she said, "... If only you weren't so difficult."

"Hmm?" Kokichi asked, which prompted Miu to elaborate.

"Maybe if you acted more trustworthy... lies less, was less of an asshole... this wouldn't have happened..." Miu muttered, but that irked Kokichi.

"If I acted less like an asshole, I or someone else would already be dead by your hand and probably everyone else along the way. Without my intervention and because I'm an asshole who didn't trust you fully that I figured you out and here we are, you cum soaked urinal cake," Kokichi snapped.

He was a little guilty about not just going to the VR at all when he found out Miu's plan, but Miu with her paranoia over betrayal would probably switch targets, and it might be better to confront her head on... but maybe he could have done better...

"Cum soaked... why... why are you so vicious?" Miu asked, wilting a little in front of Kokichi.

"I hate being betrayed to," Kokichi said simply.

"You betrayed me too!" Miu shouted.

"Because you did first, an eye for an eye," Kokichi said, ignoring the guilt. They looked at each other tense before Miu finally said something.

"I... I... maybe things would be different if I didn't... Ouma... I have thought and... maybe I'm..." Miu was stuttering, taking long pauses and Kokichi knew why. So he interrupted.

"We are even, there's nothing more to be said," Kokichi said simply. There was no need for apologies, they both knew what they did, and like this, it's fair.

"But..." Miu said, a contemplative look on her face. Kokichi decided to offer her an olive branch, if just to get rid of the awkwardness.

"Words never mattered. What does matter is what you are going to do next," Kokichi said, and with that Miu brightened up with a fire in her.

"Then," Miu declared with firm determination, "I knew what I did was stupid but everyone deserves a second chance. And I will use it to help you out so you have a guaranteed chance to get out of this hellhole."

Kokichi smiled, but it spelled a challenge, "Oh, and you think you deserve a second chance? I guess it won't be boring to see how you do that!"

Miu smiled back, as if to say 'Challenge accepted.'

Then, with no more words, they walked back to the library, so much to utter and little uttered.

But it was enough to dissolve the distress intertwining between them and replacing it with 'something', not friends, but not enemies either.

That's just what they are.

***

Gonta looked up from his book when the door opened and with relief, he saw that it was Miu and Kokichi.

"Oh, Ouma-kun, Iruma-san," Gonta greeted as he put the book back on the table and walked toward them.

Nothing much happened in the library while Miu and Kokichi were away. Gonta was simply absorbed with the book about different types of insects when he heard a clanging sound.

Gonta looked around before he saw a shot put ball out of the vent and rolling through the books.

Remembering Kokichi's advice to stay away from the bookshelves, he simply saw its progress as it rolled and rolled... until it landed.

Puzzled, Gonta didn't look further into it and decided to continue reading his book before Miu and Kokichi came back.

Now, Kokichi was nearing the shot put ball and Rantaro's body with a slightly surprise but grimacing expression on his face.

"Was it always there?" Kokichi asked to Gonta, pointing at the shot put ball that was nowhere near Rantaro's body. As Gonta nodded in confirmation, Kokichi steeled himself as he whispered, "So it is..."

"What does Ouma-kun know?" Gonta asked and with a snap, Kokichi's facial expression changed back into a childish demeanor.

"What?" Kokichi drawled the word out, "That's for me to know and for you guys to find out. It's so boring to give you the answers."

"Fine then," Miu snapped, "It probably has something to do with that damn first case, isn't it?"

"Oh, what gave that away? Amami-chan's body, the fake blood on his head exactly like he was killed, the shot put ball?" Kokichi asked sarcastically, as if it was obvious but...

"Why repeat first case? What so important about it?" Gonta asked, but Kokichi smiled, not even answering.

Gonta wished he would answer but Kokichi had always been tricky. Gonta will never know why, and it hurt. He wished to know Kokichi better.

Especially after that Killing Game Busters fiasco.

Because Gonta actually felt angry at being tricked like that, although he was also angry at himself and not only Kokichi. In fact, maybe not really angry, but just sad and disappointed

It just made him sorry that he couldn't be there for Kokichi when he saw the end of the world and tried to help in anyway he could, that's one of the reasons that made him angry. Or maybe he couldn't help, because when he did see the end of the world, he was easily led to murder...

Either way, he really wished he was there for Kokichi. So that's why he was sad that Kokichi, always evading and being tricky, was pushing Miu and Gonta away throughout... whatever he was doing.

He already made up with Miu, he hoped Miu and Kokichi can make up too but now, he really wanted to make up with Kokichi. Gonta was angry at Kokichi, but Gonta also knew he had his reasons... like Kaede, Kirumi and Kiyo, which just made him feel sad for Kokichi and gave a feeling of wanting to help Kokichi. Maybe then, he won't push Gonta away.

"The first case... avocado was killed by Bakamatsu when that shot put ball rolled down to his head, right?" Miu asked out loud as she looked at the body and then at the shot put ball.

"But..." Gonta said, an observation he decided to say out, "Shot put ball missed."

"If the shot put ball missed here, it would miss back then. If the shot put ball missed avocado, then... how was he killed? Was the killer even...?" Miu let out a gasp as suddenly she gripped Kokichi's shoulders.

But Kokichi had a look of realization as he sidestepped and took the Bugvac, with one of his fingers on his lips and his thumb cocking at a bookshelf.

Gonta and Miu were both puzzled, wondering what it meant.

Just that Kokichi moved away from the bookshelves and to a table far away as he was vacuuming and sat down. The two sat in between him, staring at him.

"What was all that about?" Miu asked.

"Hmm... I dunno. If the possibility you were going to blurt something that might target you, but that's when pigs fly by the way, I rather not be responsible for the next BDA, you know what I mean?"

Gonta slowly processed the words and briefly remembered that they were being watched by Monokuma. That's why the Bugvac was there.

"Oh..." Miu came to the same realization, "So you didn't want that bear listening on you, but why go away from the avocado?"

Kokichi gave a withering look, "Did you forget about that door?"

Door? Oh...

"The secret door at the bookcase?" Gonta asked.

Kokichi nodded, "Who knew what could be listening in?"

Miu and Gonta nodded, realizing that whatever they said should be kept secret. Defying Monokuma will lead to risky consequences, so it's not wrong to be this cautious.

"So what were you going to say, Iruma-chan?" Kokichi chirped but one a softer voice. That might mean they needed to be a little quieter.

Miu's eyes lit up as she was saying something and she said in a low voice, "Are you thinking that... Amami was not killed by Bakamatsu, but someone else?"

"Wait... what?!" Gonta exclaimed. How on earth did they reach to that conclusion? Rantaro's killer was Kaede who tearfully admitted. What other person could do this?

"Ding ding ding. That's correct. Akamatsu-chain's trap failed and someone else killed poor Amami-chan. Wow, I really underestimated your intelligence. I thought you guys wouldn't reach this conclusion in a... million years,"Kokichi admitted easily.

This shocked Gonta and Miu, because if that was the truth, the implications...

Miu grimaced, "But... are we sure that ain't a lie? I mean, Bakamatsu killed Amami. What else could it be?"

Gonta nodded. Although back then, he didn't like the fact that a friend killed another friend, he knew Kaede did it for a good reason although a wrong one. If... the possibility that Kaede was innocent all along meant... that a murderer was among them and...

Kaede died for nothing.

That hurt Gonta more than can be put to words. But what does that mean? Why was Kaede falsely executed? But...

Gonta was now praying that this is one of Kokichi's lies.

"I hate liars, you know?" Kokichi said with a smile as if he expected this all along, "You said that you want in with my plans. You already must have gotten some gist of it, but right now you are lying to yourself about what was shown in front of you because you can't face the truth. I really hate that."

"Says the liar himself," Miu huffed.

Kokichi put his hands at the back of his head, "I may be a liar, but I don't run away from the truth. And the truth in front of you is that the first case was a framing. For people who say they hate lies, you are now trying to lie to yourself, huh?"

It had to be a lie, it couldn't be true. Because...

"If not Akamatsu-san, then... who...?" Gonta said, but couldn't find the heart to finish the sentence. He was sad and tired of this killing game. Too many things have happened.

But Kokichi seemed to look unfazed.

"You really don't get it, huh? That's why I want you guys out of my way. If you can't even handle this, then you have no reason to even help me," Kokichi said, as he gave off a sinister smile.

"But I'm sure you won't say anything about this to the others, riiight? After all, I wonder what would happen if a certain bear heard about this and maybe think you are trouble. After all, you know that Flashback Lights can be manipulated and could be used to take out people, riiight?" Kokichi said.

"Are you... threatening us?" Miu asked, but once again, Kokichi just smiled.

"I'm just doing this for your own good, y'know?" Kokichi whined, "You couldn't leave me alone and you are bound to come up with things you don't want to do and shouldn't know. Who knows that the more you hang out with me, the more danger you will be."

"And what about Ouma-kun? Wouldn't Ouma-kun be in danger too?" Gonta asked, and Kokichi smiled.

"And that matters... why? I'll be fine. After all, people don't like me and yet I'm still alive! I'm surprised no one even thought to kill me before this," Kokichi said.

Miu flinched, but Gonta frowned harder, remembering reading about how Kokichi was prepared to be self sacrificing...

Gonta knew very well... that he was being pushed away, because he couldn't help. But nevertheless, Gonta shook his head.

"Even if terrible truth... Gonta still want to help you, Ouma-kun... so that nothing like the Killing Game Busters happened," Gonta said the last part quietly, and this made Kokichi snapped out of his smile to a blanked expression, his eyes flashing of something but remaining blank as ever.

Gonta decided to talk some more.

"Gonta know that Ouma-kun has a lot of problems, something that he doesn't share with others. Gonta doesn't understand why, but he want to help Ouma-kun in anyway. Even if Gonta won't like it, if that means helping Ouma-kun to the right path. Gonta don't know what will happen with what Ouma-kun is planning, but Gonta want to be there so you don't endanger yourself anymore..."

Gonta was more or less trying to plead with Kokichi now, so that Kokichi would at least have someone to stay by his side so nothing askew happens. He learned too many things with the others death and one of the things was that leaving someone alone wasn't a good thing.

It was like with Ryoma and Kiyo.

Ryoma was always alone and pushed people away, and the classmates let him. In the end, Ryoma became so lonely... lonely to the point that he wholeheartedly believed his Kubs Pad that he had nobody for him and let himself killed.

For Kiyo, no one was very friendly with him, leaving him to his lonesome, not because he pushed anyone away but because no one bothered. If someone did bother, maybe they would pick up on Kiyo's 'problem' and help him. But instead, he ended up overcome with his problem and committed heinous sin.

Kokichi had the same problem. He was left alone, exactly like Ryoma and Kiyo, who pushed him away and no one bothered. And he almost did something... regretful thanks to it.

Gonta was here to make sure it never happened again, and even though Gonta was not fully aware of Kokichi's schemes, even if the implications would blow his mind and was best left alone for people like him, still...

"What an idiot," Kokichi mumbled, "You almost killed someone because of me. The Killing Game Busters was started because of me. I showed you despair without batting an eye. And you... still want to befriend a dangerous guy like me?"

And then, unexpectedly, Gonta smiled which shocked both Kokichi and Miu.

"Ouma-kun just now sounded like Hoshi-kun. Even more reason for Gonta to befriend you, so you not be like Hoshi-kun. Gonta is... tired, tired and angry with this killing game. Gonta wants this all to end. And Gonta know you also want this to end too. That's the reason you created the Killing Game Busters, right? You wanted it to end, but Gonta don't agree with way to end it. If we end killing game, we end killing game with no more deaths and as friends. We let no ones death in vain," Gonta said, his words coming from his heart and what he truly believed.

What he truly wanted, in a moment of appeal to Kokichi, was his words to go straight into him, and... not change Kokichi, but at least let him open up.

Kokichi was mumbling under his breath and Gonta could catch the words, 'Won't leave me alone,' , 'Idiots,' and 'Why...' but he didn't understand their meaning.

Then, Kokichi looked, his purple eyes steeled with a fire as he said softly but firmly, "But what happens when those who you thought were your friends are actually not your friends?"

This time, Gonta was firm. "Everyone here are friends. We all stuck in same situation. Only one who not friend is Monokuma."

"And what if someone here has actually been Monokuma's friend this whole time," Kokichi said quietly, as if hinting something. Gonta doesn't understand what Kokichi meant.

He doesn't understand why Kokichi thought that anyone here are enemies, working with Monokuma who they all hated. It didn't make sense.

"Are you talking about the so called mastermind?" Miu mumbled which Gonta was shock at.

In the very beginning, Gonta never believed in the mastermind theory. After all, Rantaro and Kaede died because they were hung up with the mastermind theory. It was later decided that there was no such thing as a mastermind and it was simply a trick of Monokuma's. The 'mastermind's door' was forgotten afterwards.

But after all this time, Kokichi brought up the possibility that has long been dismissed.

So, Gonta had to ask, "Isn't it just Monokuma's trick?"

Kokichi gave a very derisive smile, "If you want to think like that, then go ahead."

"I thought you said that you hated lies like that?" Miu accused.

"Nishishi, that was a lie," Kokichi said, "I am a liar, after all. What's the use of breaking up a kind lie? If you want to believe it, so be it," he said with a smile.

Miu was rubbing her head as if she was having a headache, "When will you stop being so damn confusing?"

"Hmm... never!" Kokichi shouted childishly as he cackled at them. Gonta frowned. He felt like they were going in circles. Certainly Gonta was good at being there for others, and helping them with heavy lifting or piggyback rides mostly for Angie and Kokichi, but stuff like this?

It was just something he can't... he just didn't...

Gonta knew that he was a bit behind with civilization. He never understood the technology, social cues, crimes, politics and the behaviour that associated with such. Life in nature was simpler.

So Gonta could not even think of this mastermind possibility, the schemes, the tricks and the horrible, horrible lies. But at least the thing Gonta can do now was get them back on topic and hope Miu smart for both of them to figure out Kokichi's tricks and get somewhere.

"But why you think there mastermind?" Gonta asked.

"Yeah, why? We all agreed there was no such thing," Miu added.

"I understand Gonta but I can't believe you are that dumb, Iruma-chan," Kokichi heckled.

"Well... where's the evidence that there is such a thing as the mastermind? That bear can run well on its own and doesn't look like he needs help from anyone but his kubs. And the last time someone gunned after the 'mastermind', well... because of that, isn't it all just Monokuma's trick? To divide us or some shit?" Miu asked.

But Kokichi disagreed, "Hmm. I will give you a hint then. If Akamatsu-chan's death trap didn't work, then how would the real killer be able to bash in Amami-chan's head without being seen by the cameras?"

"Ha," Miu laughed, "You are admitting it would be impossible for anybody other than Bakamatsu to do it. Meaning there's no such thing as the damn mastermind, the first trial was never rigged and that you are chasing a dead end! I thought you wanted to end the game, but you are wasting your time doing shit? Knew you would be messing 'round without this gorgeous girl genius," Miu said.

Kokichi looked annoyed as he pouted, "I did not say that. Plus, it's already proven impossible that Akamatsu-chan's trap worked! The shot put ball missed, meaning someone else had to murder poor Amami-chan."

"Haah? That just means your lil' experiment was a bust, that's what it is. Whose to say the books haven't been rearranged or that the position of the body is wrong here? Huh? Huh?" Miu accused.

"Are you doubting my keen eye that cross referenced the pictures and replicated the crime scene perfectly, you third rate prostitute? And also, I just realized... Amami-chan was bashed at the back of his head, not on top, if a shot put ball was rolled on top of it?" Kokichi shot back.

"Then, why didn't we notice it?" Miu argued.

"Because we relied on everything toward Akamatsu-chan and Saihara-chan, and we just wanted the whole thing over quickly that we didn't think twice. After all, Akamatsu-chan was so adamant about herself being the blackened that no one can argue otherwise," Kokichi said.

"That... uhh..." Miu said, losing steam, but Gonta backed her up. He really didn't want to believe in the mastermind theory, much less that someone let an innocent friend die for doing absolutely nothing.

"Then how Amami-kun died?" Gonta whispered softly.

"Yeah, how?" Miu put on full force.

Kokichi sighed and then yawned sleepily.

"Man, I feel like I'm gonna drop anytime soon. Really, you are all idiots if you are still in denial like that, and I have no idea why I'm wasting time doing this with you guys. Seriously. Even Saihara-chan wasn't this persistent," Kokichi said.

"Then why are you?" Gonta asked.

Kokichi hummed thoughtfully, before shrugging, "I don't know. Maybe it's because you caught me doing all this, and caught me knowing some stuff. I'm a liar, I can lie forever but I can't lie when people see a truth and won't be told otherwise."

Gonta couldn't help smile to himself because, does that mean Kokichi was actually opening up to them?

Gonta would be happy if that were the case, if Kokichi was becoming less tricky, but he also felt that it would be a long ways to go...

Chapter Text

Miu knew for a long time that they were in circles when talking to Kokichi, although they squeezed some information out of him.

However, Miu for the life of her, had no idea where this is going.

'So what if the avocado died by someone else? Sure that means there's a damn killer on the loose, but what does this have to do with escaping the killing game?' Miu thought.

So far, she rather believe it was Kaede and this whole thing was one big trick, but in the possibility, almost non-existent possibility, that Kokichi was correct, then what?

"Aww, Iruma-chan. So you ask... what does Amami-chan's rigged death have to do with escaping?" Kokichi repeated Miu's unasked question and he laughed.

Miu knew Kokichi was not psychic so she must have said her thoughts aloud.

Kokichi suddenly stood up, starting to clean up his mess, but he still answered them.

"Everything. It's an opportunity," Kokichi said.

"Opportunity to what?" Miu asked. Opportunity to escape? She didn't see how, but maybe it's an unorthodox way to do so. After all, Kokichi is an unorthodox person.

"And would you like to know?" Kokichi taunted, making Miu frown and become frustrated. Why won't he say anything? What's he afraid of? Afraid of to be so tight lipped even though Kokichi was getting himself possible allies that could help him even if logic and common sense would dictate the two offering help to stay far away from him as possible...

Before she knew it, Kokichi already cleaned up all the fake blood and was already carrying the Rantaro body and the bundled cape over him. No, Miu didn't know how it was possible for someone like Kokichi to actually carry all those things together.

"Phew, this ain't a thing to do for someone as cute and fragile as me," Kokichi said, grunting at all the stuff he was carrying. Miu snorted. Cute and fragile, that sounds more like a lie.

"Gonta help?" Gonta asked, immediately standing up. Miu stood up too. She really had no idea why she had been wasting her time with the gremlin and giant. She could have done lots of thing, like making the Electrolaser or some important invention that could help them get out. But she didn't. Not yet.

Because information is power. Something to take in her own hands. Allies that prove useful, despite their pasts but because of that past, they try not to toe a line. Miu wanted to see where this is going and use it... for anything she can.

As Kokichi declined Gonta's offer and made bail, Miu wanted to let something out her chest, she asked one final question.

"You never said how someone else could possibly kill Amami," Miu said, saying those words in a low quiet voice which Kokichi heard.

"And why exactly should I tell you?" Kokichi asked.

Miu sighed, Gonta just looked concerned. As Miu had thought, they were beating around the bush, well at least Kokichi is.

"Why don't you tell us?" Miu countered, "What are you so afraid of?"

Kokichi gave a blank stare to Miu, before putting on a defiant look, "What? Supreme leaders aren't afraid of anything bitch. I just don't wanna tell you."

"Even if you wanted us to find out about Amami and the 'mastermind'?" Miu asked mockingly.

Kokichi pouted and seemed to be edging away before he was stopped by Miu who was closest to him and put her hand on his shoulder rooting him on the spot.

Miu gave a triumphant smile, "So you are afraid." But of what? What was he afraid about telling Miu and Gonta about Rantaro's false death and the so called mastermind?

"No," Kokichi said, with his tongue stuck out, "Let me go?"

"No," both Miu and Gonta said.

Kokichi had tears sprung into his eyes as he let out a wail, "WAAAAH! YOU GUYS ARE SO MEAN!"

Miu and Gonta waited until Kokichi stopped with his tantrum, unfazed and Kokichi noticed it. His face masked into a blank expression.

The gears seemed to be shifting in his head before he did something.

And no, it was not tell them everything.

Kokichi kicked Miu in the shin, bypassed Gonta and then ran like hell on wheels, even with all the stuff weighing him down.

Miu and Gonta looked at each other, before they chased after him.

Unfortunately, Kokichi was a fast little shit. Slippery as well, as he seemed to be trying to shake them off his tail.

Zig zag up down twist turns.

Miu was running out of stamina although Kokichi and Gonta seemed to be doing fine, but they all knew that one had to give in soon and even if Miu had no way to catch up to Kokichi, Gonta was nearing him.

Looking back, Kokichi saw and knew the same thing, but he looked further at Miu and he let out a wicked grin, the same one he gave when... it happened in that VR world.

Miu shuddered, an ominous feeling settling her.

And it proved true when Kokichi made a turn for the stairs, climbing them up at a fast rate. When Gonta and Miu followed, Kokichi lobbed something at them, it actually hitting Miu and making her lose her balance.

"Iruma-san!" Gonta shouted, and forgetting about Kokichi, rushes towards her.

Miu fell, felt someone's hand, tumbling... crashing... and a pull.

Before Miu knew it, she was on the ground with Gonta pinning above her and a concern look on his face. And in a weird position.

Miu blushed. She had topped people (Kiibo) but not the other way round!

"Iruma-san OK?" Gonta asked, his face a mask of concern as he gently let up and was pulling Miu up as well.

"I'm- I'm OK," Miu finally said, as she was finally on her feet.

But Miu couldn't help be disappointed about that. She wanted the moment to last longer, not because she liked the giant dick, but because she wanted to experience it longer. She was never put down like that before, it was exciting.

As soon as she gotten up, Miu winced and she felt her leg hurt and so did her arm.

Well, she did fall down from the stairs but at least it was not that high up. When she looked around some more, she saw smoke filtering around the stairs. That must be from whatever Kokichi lobbed at them.

There was also no gremlin in sight. Miu sighed as she checked herself. Mostly it was bruises. She moved around her body and nothing seemed sprain, but her left arm and leg were bleeding.

She looked at Gonta and saw that he also was bleeding at one of his shoulder blades. They were a little mess from Kokichi's antics. They couldn't go on like this.

"Maybe there's something in that warehouse that would help us," Miu sighed and Gonta nodded.

Hopefully no one will see or questioned their states as they walked to the warehouse, deciding to halt pursuit of Kokichi for the time being.

No, that was wrong!

Because someone was passing along them and was surprised to see the both in such a state, and that person was no other than Shuichi Saihara! The Ultimate Detective himself.

Miu cussed her luck. Out of all the people... it had to be one of the smart ones although he was influenced a little by Kaito's stupidity and a bit of a simp... but his intellect, deduction and reasoning are to be feared for those who have secrets.

"Are you guys OK?! What happened to you?" Shuichi asked.

And that was what Miu didn't want. Sure, she could tell the truth, and then? The detective in him would pry more information out of them and with the surveillance around...

Miu needed Kokichi level lying to give a good excuse, but she had no idea what to say.

Then, Gonta, the most truthful person ever known, spoke up.

"Oh, Gonta and Iruma-san OK. Don't worry. Gonta fault we injured. Gonta trying to find way to help friends and Miu helped, so this Gonta fault," Gonta said.

Miu was looking at Gonta before her sights set on Shuichi. What Gonta had said was very vague and could be left to imagination, which was clicking through Shuichi's brain before his eyes lit up with recognition.

"Gonta-kun... did you go through the Death Road of Despair?" Shuichi asked, worried settling in his eyes as he looked at the two of them anew.

Gonta either had to be a complete genius under his dumb facade or he's completely guileless.

Regardless, Miu was rolling with it. Shuichi made up that lie for himself, not her.

"Yeah, and I was helping the big dick after seeing what he was doing because he won't back down on it. Don't want the guy to do anything stupid you know?" Miu said, a little truth couched in the lie, which the detective was nodding and believing.

Unbelievable, they did it. They reached Kokichi level lying that can fool the detective! Shuichi looked concerned as he said, "Ahh... maybe I can help you guys with those wounds. A few more hands wouldn't hurt."

"Gonta thank you," Gonta said.

"Alright," Miu said, but not without giving out a jab, "But that's because you have been wanting to look at these babies all day long. Just admit it, Shyhara!"

"What... no!" Shuichi shouted as he blushed bright red and was leading them to the warehouse. Miu and Gonta followed behind.

"Why lie just now?" Gonta asked, as he whispered to Miu, meaning that Gonta was completely guileless when he gave that vague answer to Shuichi. But it helped them anyway.

Miu leaned in and said, "Bugs can hear."

Gonta nodded, knowing Miu meant the surveillance and decided to back down, but not before saying, "If no bugs, should we tell Saihara-kun about...?"

Miu knew what he meant and Miu shook her head. Gonta frowned at that, but since Shuichi was looking back at them, Gonta backed off for now.

But Miu had a reason.

Miu knew Shuichi was very close to Kaede and her death was painful to him, and imagine... the idea that Kaede's was falsely...

Shuichi was Kaede's close friend and although Miu didn't know him well, he looked like someone who seemed emotionally vulnerable, because without Kaede, Shuichi kept to himself and after Kaede, Kaito had to pick him back up. So, Miu didn't know how exactly Shuichi will take it.

There was also the fact that Miu actually felt guilty about her hand in the first case, when she made those cameras... If she refused...

So in the end, Miu simply didn't have the heart to say anything to Shuichi.

They reached the warehouse first, and Shuichi immediately found a first-aid kit, where he looked at the two of them, as if deciding who to treat first, but Gonta spoke up, "Saihara-kun better treat Iruma-san first. Because ladies first."

Shuichi nodded as he approached Miu and started to administer care toward her, first her arm.

He was already disinfecting it and Miu winced.

Shuichi reassured her when he noticed her wince as he said, "It will be over soon. But... you guys really shouldn't have gone to the Death Road of Despair. I know we are all eager to get out, but hurting yourself over there for an escape won't help you or the rest of us."

"Gonta sorry," Gonta said, his head hanging down. Miu's eyebrows shot up. Gonta seemed to be really good at this lying thing, for someone who always seemed so gullible and naive. He must either had experience with lying or Kokichi somehow rubbed off him.

"Just don't do it next time. You are lucky all the injuries are minor," Shuichi said, with a sigh of relief.

"Yeah, Gonta happy about that. Gonta just wanted to find a way to escape, so all friends could escape."

"That's good, Gonta-kun, but the answer is definitely not the Death Road of Despair. It has to be something else," Shuichi said thoughtfully.

"Like?" Miu prompted, as Shuichi bandaged her arm. She could see Shuichi fidget as he tried to come with an answer.

"... I don't know," Shuichi finally said, "But there has to be an exit somewhere, right? After all, our kidnappers brought us here somehow and that means there is a way to get out."

Miu frowned. Because even the detective doesn't know. It was just like when she asked Kiibo about escape, and it was only the hope they could, not an actual way.

Miu was a practical person, so hope was good and all, but she wanted results. To say that even the detective doesn't really have a clue about an exit was disappointing would be an understatement.

"So, even the detective doesn't have a way out," Miu said dejectedly, and she didn't mind saying it out loud. But Gonta didn't and sorrowfully looked at Shuichi who was wincing at the brutal statement as he quietly disinfected and bandaged Miu's leg this time.

"That was rude, Iruma-san," Gonta said with a stern manner but Miu scoffed. Because all this time... before she decided to take matters to her own hands when she declared as such to Kokichi in the library, she always... hoped that someone, especially the detective who seemed to know what he was doing, would somehow find a way to escape.

But realization dawned on her that now... now... that no one really actually found a way out, except maybe...

"Iruma-san is right," Shuichi said softly, "But I still will try. As everyone else does..."

Then, Shuichi stood up and went towards Gonta who had a concerned look on his face, "Is Saihara-kun OK?"

Shuichi gave a small smile, "I'm used to it."

Miu understood what he meant, after all, the detective had spent time with Miu and she delivered worse criticism and insults than what she dished out now.

Miu was left more to her thoughts before she realized she could ask a killer question, a good opportunity as one, because considering everything, just like inventions, Miu needed all the facts before she can delve towards making them, and then a little tinkering on her part...

"Saihara, do you believe there's a mastermind in this killing game?" Miu asked.

Shuichi dropped the disinfectant as he was startled by Miu's question, before picking it back up and then said, "Why are you asking?"

Miu crossed her arms. She rather not believe the possibility of a mastermind, but... "Say that a mastermind is among us. Then, we can weed them out and use them to get us out of here, right? Like a bargaining chip. If we can't find our escape, then we make our own."

As Miu said as such, she realized that the possibility of Amami being killed by the mastermind meant just that. It only took her bullshiting out of her mouth that she saw Kokichi's goal in his actions within the library. Ha! It's great that her genius brain can figure out that just by spewing bullshit.

Shuichi fidgeted slightly as he said, "I don't recommend that. After all, after Aka- Akamatsu-san..."

Shuichi's voice hitched as he said Kaede's name, but Miu decided she wanted to know the detective's thoughts, the person to reveal the mastermind theory, about all this.

"But you don't deny it," Miu pushed.

Shuichi's silence spoke volumes. She wondered as everyone dismissed the mastermind theory as a group after Kaede's failure, that maybe... maybe a few still believed it, like Kokichi... and Shuichi.

And Miu was clicking the pieces of the puzzle together. If you can't find an escape the normal way, then make your own weird way. Plans... inventions... opportunities suddenly unraveled in front of Miu. So this is what Kokichi meant by opportunities... but it came down to finding Rantaro's real killer, the mastermind.

Shuichi interrupted Miu's reverie, "But I hope you are not thinking of... catching the mastermind. After all..."

Shuichi and Kaede's plans... all up to ashes, Miu remembered that, but she kept silent. However Shuichi took that silence was fine by Miu.

Shuichi was done with Gonta's before he finally stood up and bid them farewell, as Gonta thanked Shuichi again.

"It's no problem," Shuichi said, "I hope you guys stay safe."

Miu and Gonta nodded, before they are left alone. Gonta was the one who began the conversation.

"So, Iruma-san really believe there mastermind?" Gonta asked.

Miu shrugged, "The detective didn't deny it. Like the gremlin said back in the library, a mastermind means an opportunity."

"Opportunity? ... Iruma-san surely isn't going to...!" Gonta said, as a thought seemed to fester in his brain as he shouted out worry. Miu felt she knew what he meant, and shook her head.

Miu smiled, "I ain't gonna do something stupid."

"Gonta hoped so. Ouma-kun... do you think that he might be..."

Silence for the both of them. They were thinking the same thing, especially about the fact that Kokichi said it himself that it was an opportunity, but knowing how he dealt things before...

"We better find Ouma-kun!" Gonta declared and went out of the warehouse, Miu right at his heels.

'Before he does something stupid,' Miu thought.

Because the last thing they needed was stupidity, something that Miu had done and what could happen after such stupidity... it was lucky that it never happened at all, right? And Miu... with everything she knew now and understood, won't do anything stupid and won't let others do stupid...

***

When Kokichi gave Miu and Gonta the slip, he was really glad, and immediately went to the dorm rooms, put most of the stuff back in his room save the Bugvac and went to Kiibo's room.

He decided to lean in the door and listen for the robot's movements and considering he's made of metal with zero stealth skills, it shouldn't be hard to determine.

Silence... Kiibo was not in his room. Thus, Kokichi got out his lockpicking tools and started working. And he cracked open easily to see a sparse room with only the robot neccesities such as a charger, robot tools for self maintenance, maybe, even though he often goes to Miu for one on one maintenance and finally in all its glory, a detachable dick... is what he liked to say, but to clarify, there was no such thing.

Pity, he wanted some evidence of the robot's reproductive system. The universal question ever since robots were first invented should have an answer somewhere but alas, it's out of his grasp. Well, no matter.

It was exactly the same as the last time he rummaged the room for a Kubs Pad, but this time... he was going to do a through search. And quickly, because he didn't know when Kiibo will come back.

But as he searched, he couldn't help but think of Miu and Gonta. The people who are stubborn, idiots and wanting to help him even after all that, but...

'What are you so afraid of?'

What isn't he afraid of? Everything was becoming a quick mess, everything has become chaotic, to him at least. Bulldozed plans, found out secrets, new plans created...

But it was time to deal with the present as he was undergoing his new plan so Kokichi was now searching through the floors and tapping lightly, trying to find any secret entrance... trapdoor, tunnel, you name it.

Yet his thoughts can't help stray towards Miu and Gonta. The thing was, despite them wanting in, this time round, he wanted absolutely nothing to do with them.

Yet they kept sticking around him and finding out everything about him. They couldn't leave him alone, it was annoying.

As with the mind reader which because they figured his plan of rigging the game and wanting to end it, his mastermind plan was a bust. They probably won't believe it after what they know.

The new plan of exposing the mastermind, at least finding their real identity and moving from there, once again, Miu and Gonta interfered. He tried to scare them away from it. He was hoping, foolish as is, that the truth would devastate them to leaving him alone and backing off. It didn't.

With those actions above, one would just give in and accept the help offered that could be used in more ways than one as the inventor and entomologist with their different yet useful skill sets would push Kokichi's semi formed plan to new heights.

However, something was holding him back from that and it was a simple reason.

He was afraid to accept such help, or maybe even guilty to.

What? The evil supreme leader can feel guilt? Shocking, but actually true. Because...

You see, Kokichi Ouma is a pacifist who hated murder of any kind, because what gives people the right to take away precious lives like that?His pacifism is the sole reason why he abhorred the killing game and wanted it to end completely in his own terms.

Yet... the VR fiasco, when everything was plotting against him, when everything was spiralling out of control, Kokichi almost became the very thing he detested; a cold blooded killer, even if he wouldn't really stain his own hands. But the fact that he would initiate such a thing, even if nothing happened, that was enough to make him loath himself.

The self-hatred and guilty feeling, which came immediately after everything blew over, when a newer plan came about without needing the complete risk of lost lives... maybe as penance, after everything that happened, Kokichi was making sure that Gonta and Miu would be out of harm's way. That's the least he can do.

Kokichi sighed, thoughts spiralling as he opened an adjoining door to see a bathroom. Kokichi tilted his head in puzzlement because he was very sure that robots do not need to use the bathroom. Well, unless robots do have dicks after all and need to... get it on?

Or it's a good place to hide a secret tunnel, specifically to the mastermind's lair. Why not, you know?

This time around, Kokichi went on tapping around the tiles and walls, trying to feel the area for anything suspicious. His thoughts once again spiralled through his brain.

The VR fiasco... even if the worst never happened, it was the worst decision of his life, the consequences of what could have happened. This time, he wasn't going to let that happen. This time, Kokichi will stick to his ideals.

This time, a new plan he concocted, he will end this game with no more bloodshed...

And he will protect everyone from this killing game if it's the last thing he did, especially Miu and Gonta.

Soon enough, Kiibo's room was noted to be spotless. No secret entrance to the mastermind's lair, so that means... onto the next destination. With one of his suspects temporarily in the clear, the next big suspect where they went... there.

For the next destination... the place where all men would never dare to go, the most heinous trespass ever existed since it was created...

Kokichi had to go to the forbidden girl's bathroom! A place no mere man would go unless absolutely necessary and only when an emergency as disastrous as World War or the Insect Meet and Greet could warrant going there but still be looked down upon by so many...

Kiibo was still not in the room so Kokichi made a quick exit as he made his way to the Academy and to the girl's bathroom...

However, when he reached his destination, he encountered a small problem in the form of a pink bear as it shouted, "You can't go in there! This is the girl's bathroom!"

"It is?" Kokichi asked as if the pink door with the female sign wasn't obvious enough but he still smiled in a guileless manner as if he had no idea.

"Of course it is!" Monophanie insisted, "So if you want to do your own business, go to the boy's bathroom where you belong."

Kokichi let the tears come out his eyes as he whined, "Ehh... how rude of you to assume my gender? I am a girl!"

"A girl? You don't look like a girl... and the Monopad says that you are a boy," Monophanie said.

"Eh... the Monopad lies. In fact, you should recheck it again and correct a few things here and there. Of course I'm a girl. I just like dressing up like this, and if people want to see me as a boy, go ahead because I am a liar after all," Kokichi said with a mischievous smile.

"But you should stop holding me up. I really need to go, and it's rude to keep a lady waiting, ya know?" Kokichi asked, hoping to convince the bear so he could go into the damn bathroom and investigate already.

And then what...? Kokichi can come to that later, once he confirmed and open up a new path of opportunities.

Monophanie seemed to want to argue some more, if she wasn't knocked down by the opening door that she was standing in front of. Emerged a confused Himiko who was looking at Kokichi blearily but he didn't even think about it. He just made into the girl's bathroom.

If he wasn't stopped quickly by Himiko who put her hand on his shoulder.

"Don't even think of going in there, you degenerate male," Himiko warned.

"'Degenerate male?'" Kokichi asked with raised eyebrows, "Isn't that Chabashira-chan's shtick?"

"Nyeeh... this is what Tenko would want me to do. Make sure guys like you don't do anything perverted like going into the girl's bathroom," Himiko said.

She had really gone a long way from being there apathetic magician because before, Kokichi wondered whether she would care... but he really wished for that Himiko now so he could get into the girl's bathroom. Instead...

"What? I'm no pervert. That's Iruma-chan! And how am I going to do anything pervert if I'm a girl?" Kokichi asked.

"You are a girl?" Himiko asked with a look of doubt in her eyes.

"But of course," Kokichi said, his voice becoming a touch feminine to convince the lie, "I just crossdress as a boy because supreme leaders need to be ferocious and strong, and being a girl would make me too cute for that."

"But even a boy, you don't look ferocious or strong..." Himiko said. Tears prickled Kokichi's eyes.

"WAAH! THAT'S SO MEAN!" Kokichi cried to which Himiko looked on with a blank face until he stopped, seemingly used to it already.

"OK," Kokichi said flipping to a more cheery disposition as if his tantrum back then was a lie, "You see, I really need to go and I don't know how much my bladder can take..."

"Then go to the boy's bathroom," Himiko said, as she closed the girl's bathroom door and was standing in front of it, seeming to replace Monophanie, now nowhere in sight, as protector of the girl's bathroom.

"But I'm a girl!" Kokichi insisted.

"The Monopad says you are a boy," Himiko said.

"The Monopad lies. Just because I decided to crossdress like a boy, that two legged zebra decided that I'm a boy. But that's just because he's too stupid to see the difference between a cross dresser and the real deal. Look at my face, look at my body, doesn't it scream a trap body to you? Perfect for male and female disguises?" Kokichi insisted.

"Nyeeh... but you are a liar, and Atua is telling me you are still a guy so you can't go into the girl's bathroom..." Himiko said.

"Now you are spewing Atua crap?" Kokichi frowned.

"Nyeeh... Atua is still looking over me and helping me with my actions. Because that's what Angie says, so when I have a big decision to make, Atua helps. Now go away before I hex you," Himiko said, not even bothering to budge from the spot.

Kokichi internally groaned. He decided to try and find a few ways to distract Himiko so he can get into the girl's bathroom and investigate. He didn't want to waste anymore time than necessary.

And then... he had an idea.

Kokichi moved closer to Himiko, a seductive smile on his face before he pushed his hand next to Himiko's face and leaning close to her. At least Himiko was one of the only shorter people than him so doing this... this kabedon was possible.

"Nyeeh?" Himiko said, flustered, a rosy colour flaring her cheeks, but...

"Aww... Yumeno-chan is blushing, how cute. Do you know that maybe... maybe... I wanted to go to the girl's bathroom... with you, so we can do things together," Kokichi said. He knew this sounded perverted but he didn't care. He was trying to strike her where it works.

"Nyeeh? But... what... why?" Himiko asked. Her thoughts were slipping and she was getting more flustered. Good. But not yet...

"Why?" Kokichi's face was getting all too near Himiko's face which was becoming completely red and her eyes were having a far far away look. Good, very good.

"Because I like you," Kokichi whispered into Himiko's ear, which caused her to completely flare up and without thinking, she pushed Kokichi away from her as she herself put distance away from him... away from the girl's bathroom door.

"You... you... I..." Himiko started stuttering but Kokichi gave a smile, a little on the mean side before saying, "Psyche! You should have seen your face! Now I got some important business to get to!"

Blush technique... it worked well in Kokichi's favour.

Himiko realised a second later that she was tricked as Kokichi opened the girl's bathroom door and let himself in. He leaned his back toward the door as he heard the door being pushed to be open before banging and Himiko herself shouting.

"You... you meanie!" Himiko shouted angrily, the lazy mage seeming like a lie as she ranted, "You... degenerate male! You are going to face Atua's wrath, I'm going to give you one of my deadliest curses. You'll regret this when you turn into a toad or catch a cold or your limbs are locked together or you can't speak ever again or your pants are on fire! You... you!"

Not long after, Himiko calmed down afterwards and said, back in her lazy voice, "You will be sorry."

Finally she left, as Kokichi let out a sigh. Unfortunately there were still other girls who might come in here so he better hurry and search this place.

He quickly vacuumed the place and checked the sinks as he tapped through the tiles for some hidden button or something. When nothing happened, he decided to check through the stalls... and a utility closet.

Strange... the boy's bathroom doesn't have a utility closet. And considering the school somehow cleans up for itself, is there any need for a utility closet?

He opened the door and search throughout. When he placed his palm on the far side of the wall...

BZZT.

The wall in front of him just slid up and revealed...

"Wow! A secret passageway!" Kokichi cried in delight, but...

'There's no way I am exploring such a dangerous place,' Kokichi thought. Hopefully with the Bugvac, the mastermind won't know what he knows, so the discovery would remain secret.

But Kokichi wasn't stupid enough to explore there alone. If he was sneak attacked and died thanks to this, everything would be futile.

But now it was clear as day. Who the mastermind is. How would he use this knowledge to work in his favour... that's a different story.

Kokichi quickly got out of the girl's bathroom before making a scene. Times like this, allies could actually be useful. This time, maybe he could actually trust people more because he finally pinpointed the real villain.

But no one would want to be his ally, especially with his villainous, distrustful persona he put up as a shield for potential masterminds, which was now backfiring him because truthfully, in this scenario, having allies could open up a whole new gate.

If he had allies, he could ask them to go into the girls bathroom no problem, well, if they are female.

If he had allies, he could actually explore the secret passageway without any worry because he knew that they would all protect each other and use whatever they could against the mastermind...

But unfortunately, he did not have such a luxury... sure he had options and he could use manipulation to let other people do all the dirty work without knowing anything, but something like that was quite limited compared to having useful allies.

Once again, his thoughts strayed toward Miu and Gonta, the last people he wanted as help not because they were useless but they should have enough of him.

Even if they really want to help... although he was afraid of that.

But this situation calls for him to be adaptable. He had to choose... choose his next course of action before...

His thoughts as he didn't make it a few feet from the girl's bathroom, was cut short by the tight grip on his neck.

The familiar feeling... it was back.

And proven true as his blurring vision met face to face with Maki Harukawa, the Ultimate Assassin.

"And what are you up to this time?" Maki asked coldly.

Kokichi wheezed, "Haa... haa... is this... a form of an assassin greeting? Choking someone to death... Harukawa-chan? I... didn't know... that dirty assassins... like you... had such... kinky quirks."

"Kinky quirks?" Maki repeated with a darkening voice.

Kokichi knew it was not wise to provoke an assassin but right now, he wasn't thinking straight from lack of oxygen and he was completely annoyed by this, because, who on earth chokes someone out of a greeting? That's totally idiotic. Kokichi wondered whether Kaito's idiocy actually rubbed off to Maki...

"Because... who on Earth... chokes someone... out of the blue... like that?" Kokichi asked.

"You were doing something suspicious, especially in the girl's bathroom. The girl's bathroom... of all places. Tell me, what stupid scheme are you up to now?" Maki asked, not releasing nor tightening her grip.

"Well..." Kokichi wheezed, "If you put me down... maybe I will... tell you."

"So you can run away from me? Fat chance," Maki snorted, but she released her grip some, as if worried she might choke Kokichi to death.

"So... you choose... to choke me... instead... That's totally... not kinky..." Kokichi wheezed and of course it's the wrong thing to say, because Maki totally tightened her grip on him.

"It's not kinky. I just don't trust any other method that would guarantee you not to escape as I interrogate you," Maki said.

"Interrogate me... so... fancy... like I'm... some kind... of criminal," Kokichi wheezed, surprised he didn't yet faint or die from lack of oxygen but maybe it's just that Maki is good at controlling the choke hold as to make sure the victim yet to die or something. Who knows?

"You are a criminal. Going into the girl's bathroom, that's a crime," Maki said bluntly.

She's got a point.

"Then... Momota-... chan is also... a criminal? I don't see him... being choked..." Kokichi said.

"That's because he had a reason to be in the girl's bathroom, hiding from that stupid Insect Meet and Greet you created. But how about you? You must have some reason to going to such a place, knowing you... and if it hurts Momota or Saihara like that Insect Meet and Greet... or worse... you will regret it," Maki threatened.

So she was interrogating Kokichi out of concern for her friends if Kokichi planned to do something wayward like the Insect Meet and Greet. How cute...

How valiant.

But little did Maki realise, as she was threatening Kokichi, her grip tightened evermore, he was seeing black spots.

Unbelievable, is this how he was-

"Ouma-kun! Harukawa-san!" Someone shouted.

Someone... trying to stop this, but isn't it already...

***

"Nyeeh! That Ouma... he tricked me so he can go into the girl's bathroom!" Himiko shouted to Miu and Gonta.

"What? And he calls me the pervert," Miu scoffed while Gonta looked scandalised.

Gonta and Miu were looking for Kokichi when they met up with Himiko. Seeing her in a state of agitation, Gonta questioned if anything was wrong and got that answer in return.

At least it solved their problems of finding Kokichi's location.

"Now, if you will excuse me, I'm going to find one of my deadliest hexes so that he will regret living..." Himiko said, as she went back to the dorm rooms.

Miu and Gonta looked at each other, before making their way to the girl's bathrooms.

The girl's bathroom of all places, the place where it would be most ungentlemanly to go... Gonta knew Kokichi was no gentleman, but he thought Kokichi at least had the decency not to go there... although Gonta does wonder what's inside.

When he was little, it was rumoured there were cookie dispensers and sinks that let out rainbows there. Sometimes he wondered whether that was true, but he still won't go into the girl's bathroom to find out.

Gonta really hoped that Kokichi was not doing some unspeakable evil...

But there was no need to worry about that as...

"Ouma-kun! Harukawa-san!" Gonta shouted as an unusual sight met their eyes.

Maki choking Kokichi and immediately, before he knew it, Gonta tried to push the two apart and was now holding Kokichi in his arms.

It was just like last time when Maki choked Kokichi as he revealed she was the Ultimate Assassin. At that point, the shock completely wore off about the fact Maki was suddenly choking Kokichi out of nowhere and Gonta pried they two of them away before Maki could do anymore damage.

Back then, Kokichi was still conscious, conscious enough to dismiss any concern out of his classmates and walked off to the dorms alone while telling everyone to see Maki's Lab with him the next day if they didn't believe his claim of Maki being an assassin.

Now, Kokichi was unconscious instead and Gonta, worried, checked his pulse and sighed in relief when it was there. Faint but steady.

"Looks like I might have overdid it," Maki quipped in a disinterested tone as she looked down at Kokichi with a blank and blunt expression on her face.

"Overdid it? What the fuck were you thinking choking that gremlin?" Miu who was present and was next to Gonta shouted to Maki.

Maki sighed as if she didn't want to deal with this, but deal with it she did.

"That gremlin was inside the girl's bathroom. I thought that he was up to something, so I decided to talk to him about it," Maki said.

"By choking him?" Miu scoffed.

"That's why I said I overdid it. We all know Ouma is a slippery bastard and I didn't want him to run away from our talk so I ended up choking him because if I did that, I thought he wouldn't have the thought or energy to even run away or do anything..." Maki said.

"Couldn't Harukawa-san think of something else?" Gonta asked, as he started standing up and putting Kokichi safely on his back.

Maki shook her head, "I just saw him come out of there and I wasn't thinking straight. I was worried if I left him be, he was going to do something stupid, so..."

Maki fiddled with one of her pigtails before saying, "In the end, I didn't get anything out of him, so I don't know what he's up to. But you better be careful with that asshole. He's a tricky one..."

"But Harukawa-san still shouldn't have choked Ouma-kun. What if you actually killed him?" Gonta asked, distressed.

Maki huffed, "I won't."

Gonta frowned slightly. Gonta really trusted all his friends. He even trusted Ryoma and Maki, even if they were killers in the past, because in the end... they never really meant any harm...

But Maki... for some reason...

"But Gonta thinks you can do it more peacefully, instead of choking him. And Harukawa-san also choked Ouma-kun... that time," Gonta said with a slightly concerned tone.

Maki might have mistaken it for fear because she said, "I was scared that my secret would be leaked out by then and I didn't think. I also didn't think when I choked him just now. But I don't do this unless I'm provoked."

Maki sighed, "I don't want to be here when Ouma wakes up. Would be useless to interrogate him again after that. And... I have better things to do."

Then, Maki walked away, leaving Gonta concerned a little more. Gonta really wanted everyone to be friends, but Maki and Kokichi...

They weren't in the best of terms before but after Kokichi revealed Maki's true Ultimate, their relationship... was it hatred? To the point stuff like this happened?

"So he did something stupid anyway," Miu muttered under her breath, but Gonta caught it anyway. Stupid... maybe? If Kokichi was nicer, maybe stuff like this wouldn't happen. Who knows?

"Where are you going to take him?" Miu asked.

"To Ouma-kun's room," Gonta said promptly. This reminded him of the time that Kokichi fainted during the Insect Meet and Greet and he had to carry him to his room.

"His room, huh?" Miu asked, looking at Kokichi curiously as she followed Gonta to the direction of the dorm rooms.

Such as last time, Gonta had to pilfer the small boy's pockets to find the dorm key before opening the locker room and ushering themselves in.

"That shota is a hoarder!" Miu exclaimed when she first saw the layout of the room.

Just like last time Gonta remembered it, Kokichi's room was a mess, including that whiteboard and an array of objects. There were additional things to take note of, including the bloody Rantaro wax statue hanging above his bed, but Gonta didn't pay them any mind as he settled Kokichi into his bed.

Miu was looking around and muttering to herself as she took in everything before she found herself in front of the whiteboard.

Gonta also looked at the whiteboard and saw some changes to it.

The last time he was here, he definitely saw Kaede's photo pointing to Rantaro's with a drawing of a shot put ball and some kind of contraption underneath.

Now, he saw Kirumi's photo pointing to Ryoma's with drawings of a piranha and an inner tube and Kiyo's picture pointing to Angie and Tenko's with a few drawings of a wooden plank and a cage with a sickle on top.

The other difference was where Gonta and Miu's pictures used to be, they were moved away together with its own line.

'Wary?'

"Wary?" Miu echoed, "What the fuck does that mean?"

Gonta also wanted to know what it meant. Wary... could it mean him wary of them or Kokichi thinking they were wary of him. It was really up to interpretation.

Miu continued looking through the board as she muttered, "All this time... he's been doing things like this?"

Gonta nodded. At that time, he didn't really understand about it, more focusing on putting Kokichi back in his bed. Being here again, he realised that all his actions were for the sake of ending this game.

Miu had been looking through his room, shuffling a few papers and even laughing at them or letting out a thoughtful 'Hmm.' Gonta was just standing around, watching Miu's progress with a little disapproval although he didn't try to stop Miu. He didn't think it polite to riffle around people's stuff like this but there was also no harm, so he let it be.

Nevertheless, both decided unanimously to stay inside the room until Kokichi woke up, if just to explain what happened and inquire more into why it happened, even if they had Maki's side of the story.

"Hmm?" Miu let out as she took a Kubs Pad that has been lying on Kokichi's bedside drawer, "I thought that motive was done and over with. I wonder..."

Gonta interfered. It was rude to investigate someone's room without permission, but it was even more rude to actually snoop through someone's life like that.

"You can't watch Ouma-kun's video. Not nice to break privacy," Gonta said.

"Who says this would be the shota's video? This could be anyone else's video," Miu argues back.

"Then rude to snoop into other people's life," Gonta said, trying to tug the video gently away from Miu.

"But it could be mine," Miu said and then tugged it back.

"Then Iruma-san really shouldn't watch, because remember what motive video did to Hoshi-kun and Toujou-san?" Gonta asked, finally removing the Pad from Miu's grasp.

But not before it turned on and was beginning.

Shocked, Gonta loosened his grip on it and Miu took it in her hands, as they saw it was...

"Ouma-kun's video?!" Gonta shouted in surprise.

They saw the entire video, about DICE, their non-petty crimes and abhorrence to murder, and the tragedy that befell DICE. And despite knowing that, like Kirumi, he was still here and refused to kill to escape. He still tried to escape in his own way without risking anymore lives.

Miu was muttering under her breath. Gonta was sneaking a glance at Kokichi, to take a few steps back in surprise as he was finally awake and crossing his arms in distaste.

"Gonta sorry!" Gonta said, bowing his head. Miu must be wondering why he was apologising because she turned to look where he was apologising at to see Kokichi awake too.

"So..." Kokichi drawled out the word, "You saw my motive video, huh?"

"Gonta didn't mean to!" Gonta said earnestly. Miu stayed utterly silent.

"So? You watched it anyway, you know? I can not believe... that you will invade my privacy like that! How mean..." Kokichi said, tears prickling his eyes.

"Knock it off with the crocodile tears," Miu huffed, "No one's falling for that bullshit."

Instantly the tears disappear as Kokichi reverted back to his cheery self, "Fine, you got me. I couldn't care less if you watched my dumb motive video. Anyway... I'm wondering what you guys are doing in my room? I don't remember inviting you... unless my split personality did!"

"Split personality?" Gonta asked with a tilt of his head.

"I don't know, but every time someone chokes me and I black out, I become this delusional prostitute called Kiko. I... I hope she didn't do anything to you. She can be a little... pushy," Kokichi said, suddenly blushing as he wrapped his sheets around himself.

"Ouma," Miu said in an exasperated tone.

"Yep, that's my name. Don't wear it out," Kokichi said in a chirpy tone, dropping the facade.

"What on Earth did you do to make that black haired flat tits so mad about?" Miu asked, straight to the point.

Kokichi scoffed, "Absolutely nothing. I was just doing my own things when that murder girl just suddenly choked me out of nowhere. Seriously, assassins can be so rude."

"Maybe because Ouma-kun go into girl bathroom that Harukawa-san saw?" Gonta asked. No way was he justifying Maki's action but going to the girl's bathroom... why?

"Huh? Why not? I'm a girl, don't you know that?" Kokichi asked happily.

"Yeah and I'm flat as a wall," Miu scoffed, "Just admit that you are a pervert, going to the girl's bathroom of all places."

"But I am a girl!" Kokichi protested.

"But Monopad says you boy," Gonta said.

"And you believe anything the Monopad says?" Kokichi asked, batting his eyes.

"We all know it's a lie. No one's going to fall for it," Miu said.

"OK, that was a lie. I am a bona fide boy, or maybe that's a lie?" Kokichi said.

"Gonta think we off topic. Gonta wants to know why you in girl's bathroom?" Gonta asked.

"Haah? What happens in the girl's bathroom stays in the girl's bathroom," Kokichi said.

Gonta tilted his head and finally said what he had been thinking, "Is Ouma-kun pushing us away?"

"Huh?" Kokichi asked, an eyebrow raised, so Gonta continued.

"From what Gonta know, it looked like Ouma-kun's been trying to push us away from him. After virtual world... when Gonta or Iruma-san offer to help Ouma-kun, you push us away. We try to get you to open up more to us, you run away from us. We want to be your friends, you run away from us. Why?" Gonta asked.

"What? Pushing you away? Running away from you guys? Pssh, I'm not doing that," Kokichi said easily.

"If you are really not doing it, then let us in with your plans. We know that you think the mastermind is legit, and you are doing something about it. But that's dangerous, because remember Amami and Akamatsu? We don't want that to happen you," Miu said.

"Pshh... supreme leaders don't die easily. You have seen it for yourself, Iruma-chan!" Kokichi said gleefully, referring to the VR world. Miu seemed to caught onto that too, as she flinched. Gonta decided to take another approach to this, as he went nearer to Kokichi. He stiffened in surprise.

"But Gonta don't want anything bad to happen to Ouma-kun. Ouma-kun could have died just now if Gonta and Iruma-san didn't make it in time. Wouldn't it be easier for Ouma-kun if he had friends who had his back?" Gonta asked.

"But I don't need friends, especially not you two. A supreme leader of evil can certainly-" Kokichi started, but Gonta decided to interrupt again.

"But how about group DICE? They your friends, aren't they?" Gonta asked.

Kokichi's eyes widened in surprise as he came out with a rebuttal, "They are just my subordinates. They do not mean anything to me!"

"Gonta don't think that," Gonta said kindly, "Gonta think Kokichi and DICE are very good friends with each other because you look like you are happy and having fun together. So you have friends, but you refuse friendship here? Why is that?"

"Because I don't really need-" Kokichi started rebutting but was interrupted.

"Because you are afraid," Miu said, walking to Kokichi's bed and sitting down, looking sideays at Kokichi.

Before Kokichi could even say anything, Miu narrowed her eyes, "Because you are afraid to be so close to us. Ever since the VR world. And now I have watched the motive video, I have been thinking. Are you avoiding us because you almost broke your organization's rule for almost doing us in?"

Kokichi's eyes widened and Miu spluttered, "Bullshit! That's actually true? I was just spouting a wild guess. Can't believe I hit the nail in the head. I'm a fucking genius!"

Kokichi avoiding Gonta and Miu because he almost killed them.

Gonta smiled tenderly at Kokichi. So he wasn't the only one to feel guilty about those events, but...

"But that doesn't mean Ouma-kun should avoid us! Instead, Ouma-kun should fix his mistakes!" Gonta declared.

"What?" Kokichi asked.

"Yeah!" Miu jumped in the idea easily, "If you feel guilty about it, then you gotta let us help you, because that's what we want. And after everything that happened, you at least owe us that much, right?"

"Isn't this blackmail?" Kokichi asked with narrowed eyes.

"No, no," Gonta refuted easily, "Gonta thinks this is more... helping Ouma-kun with his guilt."

"But I don't feel guilty," Kokichi whined.

"Then will you let us help you, instead of refusing it?" Miu asked with a smug smirk.

Kokichi pouted, "Why should I ask help from useless, untrust-?"

Miu interrupted that tirade, "But you don't think that, do you? You told me yourself, that day. 'Why would I want to kill the most useful person here?' You really don't think I'm useless or anything. Instead you feel guilty."

Kokichi mumbled under his breath, "What is this slander?"

"Please, Ouma-kun, let us stop this game together," Gonta pleaded.

"I know that you don't trust a lot of people. I don't myself, but your reason is because you think there's a mastermind, right? But you don't think us like that, right? Otherwise you wouldn't have told us about it. So, you don't have to be afraid of putting trust on us too, you know? We can end this game together," Miu said, edging closer to Kokichi.

"Gonta think it like this. Gonta think Ouma-kun been trying to end game himself, but didn't succeed, so we do it together. Just like how Ouma-kun made Killing Game Busters to end this game, except... no killing," Gonta said with a smile.

Miu slid her hand in front of Kokichi and Gonta, saying, "Killing Game Busters, huh? But instead... we will bust this killing game in our own terms, without any death. So, you in or not?"

Gonta slid his hand on top of Miu's with a smile, and then they both looked at Kokichi expectantly. He was scowling at them.

"You... you really are idiots, trying to work with someone like me. After everything I have done. What if everything you thought about me is actually a lie? What if I'm actually the mastermind and am just screwing with you right now?" Kokichi asked.

"Haah? Like I doubt my mind reader, and look at your room! Look at your motive video! A person who abhors killing! No way someone like you is the mastermind!" Miu exclaimed.

"But what about me tricking Gonta into killing you? You don't think that's what a mastermind would do to save their own skin?" Kokichi asked with a devilish face.

"Gonta prefer to think that Ouma-kun just snapped under pressure when he made that decision, just like Gonta when he saw end of world and thought best to kill everyone, but Gonta really not like that. So Gonta think Ouma-kun not really mean about killing in virtual world," Gonta said.

"But... do you really believe there's a mastermind among us? If we ever found out who the mastermind is, what will you do?"

Miu and Gonta looked at each other, before it was Gonta that answered.

"Gonta don't like to think there really mastermind, but Gonta have to admit there is. And when we find mastermind, we won't kill them. Because Gonta don't want anymore killing. All we need is to get out of here, so we ask mastermind how to escape. That's what Gonta would do."

Kokichi stared at them for what felt like an eternity before with a sigh, Kokichi put his hand on top of the two.

"I guess even supreme leaders need fresh new subordinates to help in the grand scheme of things."

Gonta and Miu smiled. They did it. And with that, to them, came the first step of acceptance, moving on and freedom. The start of the new Killing Game Busters...

Chapter Text

Miu still couldn't believe they convinced the gremlin to spill the beans... whatever that will help them get out of here, Kokichi has the cards to deal with and finally he's letting Miu and Gonta see them.

But that was only half of the battle, or maybe even just the start of it.

Miu yawned, thinking of the contents of last night as she trudged through her way to the cafeteria.

What Kokichi told them, briefly, was utterly shocking to comprehend. She still had a night to digest it, and even now, she can't entirely believe it.

Miu remembered... when they were in Kokichi's room, after he vacuumed the place with the Bugvac, he immediately proclaimed.

"Shirogane-chan is the mastermind!"

But Kokichi had declared that in such a happy and cheery tone that Miu thought it was a lie. Plus, where was the proof? And she even said so.

"Is that so, but if you compared with the first case and know that Akamatsu-chan wasn't the one to kill Amami-chan then..."

Kokichi proceeded to tell them how he reached his conclusion, comparing the alibis of the first case and narrowing it down to Kiibo and Tsumugi. But what made it fact was the secret entrance at the girl's bathroom. Because since Tsumugi went into the girl's bathroom for a short while and Rantaro was murdered... where they could possibly get irrefutable proof of Tsumugi being the mastermind and blackmail material.

"What? There is secret entrance in girl's bathroom?"

"Well, what the fuck are we waiting for? Let's get to there!"

"No... not now..."

Gonta expressed his surprise, Miu expressed her determination and Kokichi expressed his doubt.

It was starting to get late and Kokichi expresses doubt in going such a place... yet.

"The mastermind could be in there. I think... it's better that we don't go in there yet. We wait for tomorrow."

Why was the question both Gonta and Miu asked.

Kokichi gave a devious smile back then.

"Because when everyone has their hands full with the new motive... that's when we strike."

"How Ouma-kun know that there would be a motive so soon?!"

It was Gonta who asked and with a heavy sigh, Kokichi explained about his deal with Monokuma prior the VR fiasco and the aftermath of it. Basically Monokuma is wrapping Kokichi around it's paws.

'Frankly,' Miu thought, 'That's dangerous.'

But Kokichi has dismissed any worries of it, saying he was just playing around with the bear but he did promise him something~

"What fucking promise?"

Miu said fearfully, because any promise with that bear was bound to end terribly but then Kokichi told the promise... the promise that Miu seen that he wanted to go through. In addition, it was two fold. It served a purpose of revenge against the killing game at the same time distraction in addition to the pressure of motives which would leave the girl's bathroom free from the mastermind...

And she of course aided him while Gonta fruitlessly tried to stop them. Nice try though. While doing so, however, they straightened out their plans for this.

Because Gonta and Miu needed proof beyond the doubt of Kokichi's claim, and what were they going to use it for. Kokichi reassured them that he will figure it out.

Miu decided that she had to think about their next moves on her own. She still didn't trust Kokichi with something as important. After all, the last time he had an idea... she still remembered where did that fucking lead.

But for now, today was the day where everything will go in motion, that promise...

So that's why today, it was a day of excitement for Miu and Kokichi, nervousness and feeling sorry to the others for Gonta and obliviousness for the rest.

It happened when everyone arrived, including the latecomers, when Shuichi, last as always, finally arrived. Shuichi sat down to eat, but...

Click.

It happened in one oblivious second.

"Eek!"

"Guh!"

"Nyeh!"

"Gonta protect everyone!"

"What the fuck!"

"Nishishi!"

"Everyone stay calm!"

"What's going on?!"

"Tsk."

The details will be spared but no one was exempted from flying pies, stink bombs, feathers, water balloons, flying food, confetti, paint, glitter, chocolate, costumes and whoopee cushions.

It was agreed by Miu, Kokichi and Gonta that they will act as they know nothing and get caught in the pranks as well so no one suspects anything. Gonta followed along because there was nothing he can do to stop this chaos anyway.

But the fun part was not over yet, even as Miu had cream pie on her face, paint over her body and her clothes a lot worse to wear, when Monokuma finally arrived.

"Well, look what the bear drag in," Monokuma snickered, "It looks like you kids-"

He was interrupted by another click.

Whoosh.

Yesterday, when they planned to set up this prank palooza, they especially meant it for Monokuma who actually asked for this.

Be careful what you wish for.

It happened in a flurry of chicken feathers, a red rubber glove and an orange cone.

The result was...

"Hahahahaha!"

"Nishishi. Ahahahahaha!"

"Snort."

"Why are you guys laughing?"

Everyone had a variation of laughter, from snorting and looking away to laughing uproariously except for one mild confusion from the other robot and a few smiles. Monokuma put out his claws and asked, "What's so funny?!"

For further effect, a mirror somehow fell from the ceiling above Monokuma and showed himself in all his glory.

"A chicken?!" Monokuma asked outraged.

It was indeed a glorious day when the white and black bear turned into a chicken. That was for all the things that bear put them through!

"Who is responsible for this?! I will have you punished by the Exisals!" Monokuma shouted.

Everyone who was either smiling or controlling ranging fits of laughter went dead silent with a blank look except for one person, smiling like the imp he is.

"Huh? Since when does this count as an offence?" Kokichi asked.

"What? Someone attacked this dear headmaster, so someone will be punished!" Monokuma shouted.

Kokichi shook his head knowingly, as he said, "But all that was done was stick feathers, a glove and a cone on you. That didn't even harm you so it doesn't really count as violence. And I'm sure only violence is prohibited against the headmaster, riiight?"

"What?!" Monokuma grumbled, looking straight at Tsumugi who was nearest to him, "You! Is that true?"

"Umm..." Tsumugi let out as she checked her Monopad and showed the rules to Monokuma.

Monokuma grumbled some more.

"That's it! New rule added so this won't happen again," Monokuma announced.

And indeed with a chime, all the Monopads rang to see:

#16: Pranks against the headmaster is forbidden.

Miu laughed at that, "Hahahahaha! He really added the rule!"

Kokichi pouted, "Oh, what a killjoy, you couldn't stand a few pranks?"

Says the person now in glitter and somehow in a ballerina costume. He was among those whose in costume. With Kaito as Barney the purple dinosaur, Tsumugi as Sailor Moon, Himiko as a duck and Shuichi as a female pop idol. The rest were lucky the same fate hadn't happened to them.

"Ugh whatever," Monokuma dismissed, "Now I guess you are wondering why I am here..."

"No one fucking cares," Miu spat which Monokuma ignored.

"As you all know, the last motive was ignored and no one even killed! Like, what the heck?! Do you even know how much this bear goes through to just even think up motives for you kids? At least let my hard work pay off!" Monokuma said, now grumbling which everyone ignored.

"So! I keep thinking... why was that motive so ignored throughly? Then it hit me! I just didn't make it flashy and obvious enough! With that in mind, I decided to go with this all or nothing motive. After all, since we are behind schedule and all..."

'After all, since we are behind schedule and all...'

That was an odd thing to say, because what schedule would he be running behind of? He had all the time in the world.

"I present you the Flashback Motive. Scattered throughout, there will be Flashback Lights with your name on it waiting longingly for you. So, with that, I will unlock the school with..."

Monotaro and Monophanie suddenly appeared with items in hand.

"The real last key, last real key and secret really last key!" Monotaro and Monophanie announced.

"Wha- what's the difference?" Himiko asked.

The three keys were given to Kiibo, Kaito and Kokichi respectively, or they were just somehow thrown into their hands. Most of everyone was looking at Kokichi, especially as last time they had a motive, he ran off with it. But this time he was just keeping his nonchalant eyes at Monokuma waiting for him to finish.

"Explore through the Academy, find the Flashback Lights only meant for you and to make sure this motive actually works, if you don't find these Flashback Lights and use them in the next 12 hours... this Academy will explode!" Monokuma declared.

"WHAT?!" Everyone shouted. Was the bear that desperate since his last motive went kaput?

This made Miu desperate herself. She didn't want to die in a fucking explosion! But she looked at both Gonta and Kokichi, one concerned and another blank. But no sign of indication that they were going to divert their plan...

They were still going to do it, but Miu wondered whether they will have enough time to find all the Flashback Lights in addition to what they were doing...

She hoped so...

"You betcha," Monokuma continued as Miu came out of her monologue, "This might seemed like a running gag theme but I'm really at my wit's end, you know? I don't know how much longer I can stand in this boring world without an interesting kill. Because do you hear it? The trial room is sad and calling for you..."

"I don't hear anything," Kiibo said.

"So, you better find them. Unless you want to be killed in an explosion. Might be a lesson to not ignore the headmaster's beary well prepared motives..."

And then he disappeared, along with his two Monokubs.

"Well, what are we waiting for? Charge!" Kokichi shouted, running away from the cafeteria. And that was the start of it. No turning back.

"Hey, wai-" that was Kaito but was immediately stopped by Gonta who was running after Kokichi, as he looked back and said, "Gonta will make sure he not get into trouble!"

It left with the rest of them, and Miu sighed. It was now time to make her exit with everyone here. She needed to catch up with Kokichi and Gonta.

"If those two are out, I'm also out. After all, we need to find the fucking Flashlights, right? Easy peasy for a gorgeous girl genius like me!" Miu declared as she made her way out of the cafeteria even if the others were calling after her.

It didn't matter. It was time to execute a part of their plan.

Gonta and Kokichi sure can run fast because she didn't meet them until she saw them waiting by the girl's bathrooms without raising suspicions to any of the Kubs.

Miu went to the girl's bathroom as Kokichi, who was back in his original clothes, lobbed an Electrobomb within the vicinity. Immediately, the lights of the girl's bathroom died.

And so as any surveillance.

With a flashlight at each hand, the trio entered the girl's bathroom, and easily entered the secret entrance.

If Tsumugi's alibi and the behind the scenes of the first case were to be believed, the secret entrance will lead to the mastermind's room.

A place with so much that could help them escape... hopefully.

Gonta was still a little uncomfortable being in the girl's bathroom and expressed a little disappointment seeing the bathroom, saying, "So there's no cookie dispensers..."

Whatever the fuck that meant. Miu was more focused on reaching her destination, determined to do this quickly, especially with the motive and it's time limit at hand.

"Woah, what is this fucking place?" Miu exclaimed when they reached the end of the secret entrance. They were in a secret room, with monitors all over and showing the entire academy. It looked like a sort of impromptu office, with shelves all over, computer tables, a sofa and something covered with a sheet.

"We should search through quickly," Kokichi said firmly, as he saw Gonta and Miu gaping at the room, he himself already reaching the table and holding something, "Before anyone gets suspicious and so we have time with that damn motive. Can't believe that the bear would be that desperate to blow us up because we just ignored him. Pfft, what an attention hog," Kokichi snorted.

"Well, but of course!" A high pitched voice squeaked, "After all, do you know all the time and money that go into this killing game? Blood better be shed quickly, otherwise the investment won't pay off!"

"E- Eh?! Who's there?" Gonta asked, surprised as he looked around. Miu's eyes narrowed at the sheet covering something, and closing in on it, she flipped it open to reveal...

"HOLY FUCK! WHAT IN GODDAMN HELL IS THAT?!" Miu nearly shouted out, and backed away quickly. Kokichi and Gonta also looked at it with equal shock.

"I am Motherkuma, thank you very much," the thing... a big bear head inside a glass, was speaking.

Miu had just one question in her head. Just... why? But...

"Hmm... Motherkuma, I wonder..." Miu said curiously. Miu, as the Ultimate Inventor, had childlike curiosity to any and every invention, like Kiibo, the Exisals, even the Monokubs and Monokuma, which is why she easily accepted being Monotaro's mother before the VR fiasco. Inventions interested her, and this was no different...

"Interested in lil' ol' me?" Motherkuma asked, "It's too bad that you were supposed to find me at the endgame, not now. It's too early."

"Too early?" Gonta asked.

"None of your beeswax. This is confidential info, got it? No one wants spoilers too early, you know?" Motherkuma said.

"I don't know about that," Miu said, dismissing what Motherkuma said in favor of her new curiosity, "But what the fuck are you for?"

"Huh? It's in my name. I'm Motherkuma, the mother of Monokuma. I give birth to Monokuma, while also the overseer of this killing game- hey, what are you doing with that wrench?!" Motherkuma interrupted itself when Miu suddenly got too close and was already pointing a wrench at Motherkuma's glass.

Miu could hear Kokichi mumble, "What is this shit?" She ignored that.

"Because... you give birth to Monokuma? And you are the overseer of this killing game. What the fuck does that mean?" Miu demanded.

"Exactly what it means. For the overseer, I see everything in this killing game. As for giving birth, it all began with a sperm and-" Motherkuma started, but was rudely interrupted by Miu jabbing the wrench pointedly, which Motherkuma squealed.

Kokichi and Gonta were simply watching this, too... shocked to even do anything.

"Not that. Monokuma is a robot. You can't just give birth to a robot! It is biologically impossible!" Miu declared.

"That's AI phobic. All the chosen one has to say is 'Give birth to Monokuma' and a new life will be born!"

"Give birth to Monokuma then," Miu said, but nothing happened.

"Ooh, I want to see what happens!" Kokichi exclaimed, "Can you pwetty pwease give bwirth two Monokuma?"

"Umm... Gonta ask you give birth to Monokuma," Gonta said hesitantly.

Still nothing.

"Hmm, if you say you can give birth to a Monokuma and you can't..." Miu said in a thoughtful voice, the wrench already going through wires at the bottom of the glass to which Motherkuma did not appreciate whatsoever.

"I said that a Monokuma will be born if the chosen one says so! And you guys aren't even fit to be chosen ones, just asking me to give birth without any love... how cruel."

"Chosen one?" Kokichi asked with a bare smile on his face, "You mean the mastermind, right?"

"I am not obligated to answer that," Motherkuma said firmly.

"Ah well," Miu said, a thought suddenly approaching her brain, "Then does that mean if you are the one giving birth to Monokuma, then that means if you don't exist, Monokuma can't be made again. So, if we destroy you and we destroy Monokuma, then... we can escape?"

After all, without Monokuma, there's no killing game. Indeed, Miu remembered the reprieve when Monokuma was accidentally destroyed and the killing game was supposedly over, without such a bear, but he came back again anyway... all because of Motherkuma, Miu decided now, and that means...

"Heh, I was wondering what you were made of anyway..." Miu cooed, her wrench fiddling dangerously with the wires as if to see anything that can be dismantled. It was a dark day for Motherkuma indeed...

But it couldn't be a happier day for Miu. After all, inventions were her thing. And if this leads to any form of escape, double score!

***

When Kokichi agreed to the KGB, it was not because Gonta or Miu swayed him, but because he knew that they were too stubborn to be left alone.

They won't back down, and he won't back down, but after a while, he decided to concede, slightly, so that they will finally back off. It wasn't a matter of pride but a matter of opportunity and adaptability, although an opportunity he would rather forgo because of risk.

But it was a good opportunity nonetheless, with allies that will have his back in this risky endeavor of the secret room.

Until now...

What the hell was Miu thinking pointing a wrench at the bear? What the hell was he seeing?

Motherkuma seemed flustered, "You- you can't just do that! Where are my rights?"

"The rights disappeared a long time ago for bears who thought it would be funny to drop us in this damn killing game," Miu said. Motherkuma looked like it was sweat dropping at that. OK, how was that even possible?

While half paying attention to the conversation, Kokichi decided to finally have a look of what he took from the table in front of him.

It was a bloody Monopad with a handprint on it. Kokichi clicked it open and was surprised at what he saw.

'Survivor's Perk...' Kokichi thought.

Gonta also saw what Kokichi was doing and read, "Survivor's Perk?"

"What Survivor's Perk?" It seemed that the words alone was enough to distract Miu as she made her way towards them. Motherkuma sighed in relief at that. It's destruction seemed to be delayed in the meanwhile.

Kokichi held the bloody Monopad in the air before the words 'Survivor's Perk' turned into a complete map... except...

"Isn't that secret entrance in the library?" Gonta asked, pointing at the library and the place which was not marked in any other maps of the student's handbook.

"Yuppers," Kokichi said, "And... hmm... what's this?" Kokichi asked, clicking on a speech bubble icon which allowed a string of words to appear in the pad. It read:

Clue to end the killing game

"What the fuck? A clue?!" Miu asked, "Something like that was here all this time?!"

The next words read:

The mastermind who is behind the killing game is hiding somewhere within the academy. Your best chance of exposing them is when Monokuma needs a spare. At that time, the mastermind will go to the library's hidden room.

To prove this hint is accurate, I will predict something. The first thig you will remember is the Ultimate Hunt.

Only share this information with people who you know can trust. How you will determine that will mean your life or death.

Rantaro Amami

"What... What does this mean? Gonta... Gonta don't understand..." Gonta said.

"It means..." Miu said, a little harshly, "That Amami, he had a special advantage... all this time! What made him so special?!"

That question was directed to Motherkuma, who fired back, "And why should I answer to someone who was planning to dismantle me with a wrench?!"

"Maybe I won't, if you answer a few questions," Miu said.

"No way..." Motherkuma said, "There's no way I will answer any questions for brats like you."

"OK then, let's go with this instead," Kokichi suggested cheerfully, "We search this place, find everything suspicious and then we question you. And if you won't answer... then, hey Iruma-chan, maybe instead of dismantling it, you can reprogram it?"

"What? Reprogram me? I am made of the finest-" Motherkuma said, but was cut sharply by Miu who had hummed in thought before saying, "Depends on what you mean by reprogram, 'coz that can take a fucking load of time and I dunno if we even have time..."

That was true. There was the motive to consider and Kokichi wasn't exactly dumb to think everything can wrap up quickly to bypass the motive and risk being killed in explosion.

"You are right. We don't have time, but at least we can destroy whatever the heck that's making it give birth to Monokumas. If Motherkuma can't give birth to Monokuma, that means Monokuma-"

"Can be destroyed and we can fucking escape! Yeah, I already said that already, ya know? After all, any idea that comes out of this gorgeous girl's genius mouth is obviously going to be a genius idea!" Miu exclaimed.

"So all we got to do is destroy big bear head and we can go home?" Gonta asked, as he approached Motherkuma and raised his fist. Once again, Motherkuma was sweat dropping as it's fate was sealed except...

"Not like that," Kokichi said quickly.

Gonta's fist was inches away from Motherkuma's glass, which was about to be shattered by Gonta's fist and probably destroyed if Gonta's strength is to be believed. After all, at times, he can turn Super Saiyan and that strength could completely destroy Motherkuma. It was stopped, though... albeit barely.

"I said, reprogram, because I doubt that we will be done with this place after one sweep. The thing is more useful active than dismantled. I'm sure as Iruma-chan reprograms to make sure Monokuma can be born again, Iruma-chan can also find ways to reprogram the bot to spill the beans, get what I mean?" Kokichi asked.

"Hmm... it won't take long to examine the bot," Miu said, scanning Motherkuma with her eyes. "Ah, heck why not? I might find something useful."

Instead, Kokichi left Motherkuma to a worse fate than before, especially knowing Miu's... tendencies.

"Ouma-kun, then what Gonta do?" Gonta asked Kokichi.

"We quickly find anything useful. I search the shelves and computers, and you search everywhere else," Kokichi said.

Kokichi was indeed quite interested in the files and computers, because if they could prove what he had always thought of this game, that the game was actually a show, the hard evidence, he didn't want Gonta nor Miu to know. He letting them in never meant he trusted them fully. That was how paranoid Kokichi is, to keep a few cards open and the others close to his chest. What they know now might only be half of the things he know.

For his sake and others, as the biggest secret should remain untold, except in silent thoughts. Just in case...

"OK," Gonta said, "Gonta hope we find something useful."

'Me too, Gonta, me too,' Kokichi thought as he started searching through the shelves, hoping for any carelessness of the mastermind that could be used to his advantage. They also don't have much time... if the mastermind came here... well... the very least, Gonta can restrain them and they... blackmail? Cross the bridge when it comes to it.

But so far Motherkuma and the Survivor's Perk spoke a lot of volumes of their situation and newfound evidence to the lies that is the killing game.

This game... has indeed been rigged from the very start. For that Pad, which must be Rantaro's, because he was the first to remember the Ultimate Hunt, that Pad must be the reason he went to the mastermind's door.

And the reason Rantaro was killed.

Logically, Kokichi assumed that the mastermind must have needed a fail safe to jump start the killing game, so decided to lure Rantaro to the mastermind room like that and probably ripe for killing.

Speculation, of course, because what if Rantaro was the only one who knew of the room and wasted his time there? What if no one plotted any murder that time, because of ignorance? What will happen?

But it didn't. Instead, Shuichi and Kaede also found out about the door, and Kaede desperate, plotted murder.

And the one to take the fall whether that ball hit or miss.

Kokichi wondered if there was a mistake somewhere when Kaede's shot put ball missed, that the mastermind who was lurking behind the door to bash in Rantaro's brain was more of a back up plan if Kaede's didn't do it.

And a mistake, that led the trip down here to use it for their own purposes. But it was only because the mastermind made a mistake and nothing more.

Otherwise, except for that VR mess, the killing game was smooth sailing, rigged perfectly to the mastermind's design like a sick story or play instead of a game... it was really a lie from the start.

But do you know, if you lie to a liar, the liar will simply lie back. And he was looking for anything possible to build a spectacular lie to pay back for all the lies told and lives lost.

The files he seen were mostly... drafts of motives, memories given, ideas, speculations... like a draft of someone's script. A horrible script to him. So, Kokichi... might be right about that after all.

And characters, them. Where there were profiles of them and... probability.

Probability. To survive? There were so many highs and lows. As Kokichi riffled and discerned and grimaced.

Kokichi knew that the game was rigged from the start.

And rigged until the VR fiasco. This was... never a fair game. It might never be a game at all despite the word being in the name, but...

Through the shelves, he found something interesting and put it in the bag where he was keeping spare Electrobombs and the Bugvac. He actually hid the bag in the cafeteria and took it with him as he made his getaway back then, which proved useful to keep things they find and put in his room.

Then, he was surprised to see a colourful Kubs Pad among the files in a shelf. Taking it, he turned it on...

"Back by popular demand..." it started and Miu and Gonta, hearing that, stopped whatever they were doing, to watch the motive video together.

In the end, it was Kaede's motive video, about her precious twin sister in danger and all that.

"Why is Bakamatsu's motive video here?" Miu asked.

"Well, this place is where all the motives might be stored, so because they don't know who will die back then, they prepared motive videos for all of us," Kokichi speculated.

"Oh, that makes sense," Gonta said, "So does that mean we will find Amami-kun's video?"

"Here," Miu said, taking another Kubs Pad from another shelf and immediately turned it on, ignoring a distressed, "Wait," from Motherkuma.

After that 'Back by popular demand...', they made the introduction... "Rantaro Amami, the... Ultimate Adventurer."

"Ultimate Adventurer?" Kokichi asked aloud, but was questioning more about the slight pause they made before announcing the talent. However, that might explain his cool behaviour and his style of clothing. Rantaro's video was about his long lost sisters before it cut to a disaster and turned off.

Miu was still looking at the blank screen, mumbling, "That still doesn't tell us why Amami was so special to get that so called Survivor's Perk... Oi, Motherkuma, what made Amami so special?"

"That's a spoiler I won't tell. No way, absolutely not," Motherkuma said.

"Oh yeah? We will get our answers and we will use them to get fucking outta here." Miu said, already heading toward Motherkuma.

"Eep! Torture won't work, y'know? And you can't escape from here! The killing game is eternal!"

Eternal, huh? Not if Kokichi has anything to say about it. Meanwhile, Miu was unphased.

"Eh? What do you mean by torture? I'm just going to give you a good tuning so you can answer our questions. Be grateful you are getting a little experience with this gorgeous girl genius because you ain't gonna get a good opportunity like this again," Miu said, puffing her chest.

"RIP Motherkuma. You shall not be missed," Kokichi said under his breath before saying out loud, "But Iruma-chan, y'know that we are running on borrowed time. Just try to make sure the thing can never make more Monokumas. But maybe later... another time..." Kokichi smirked evilly.

Miu had a mad scientist smile as she said, "I see what you mean. Would give me time to think of upgrades along the way, but for now..." Miu said, cheerfully humming as she made her way to Motherkuma.

"Eek!" Motherkuma squealed. No one cared.

Bless Gonta, who was ignorant of this, saying "Ouma-kun, Gonta found a few things and... there's something Gonta wanted to show you."

"OK, big guy," Kokichi said cheerfully, "Show 'em to me!"

Gonta nodded solemnly despite Kokichi's cheerful attitude and led him towards the table where the bloody Monopad rests, along with a few other things that weren't there before.

"Gonta couldn't find much, but he found those two in trash can, and he read the note... Gonta a little worried..." Gonta said, showing a little anxiety as he fidgeted.

Kokichi hummed but decided to inspect the shot put ball first, a clean one except...

"Pink fibers," Kokichi said as he picked one and examined with a narrowed eye. It just told him what he already confirmed, but this most likely would be solid evidence about one of the many lies played in the killing game... it's going into his room later.

Then, he picked up the crumpled note that was smoother out by Gonta who read it first and now read by Kokichi. He grimaced.

He could see cross out lines and rewrites in pen within the paper. It looked like the mastermind was having a hard time making up motives for them but one thing stood above all...

Threat: Kokichi Ouma. Eliminate.

Seriously? Sure Kokichi acted as an antagonist and all that, but wasn't that what the mastermind wanted? After all, the bear always took pleasure in hanging around with Kokichi, always saying and praising him for making things interesting.

So... Kokichi wondered... what did he do to need to be disposed? Maybe they knew what he...

He read further through the crossed lines and saw something:

Iruma-Ouma: failed. What went wrong? Anomaly? Iruma? Ouma.

They were regarded as anomalies? But why Miu in question and Kokichi in certainty?

Once again, Kokichi decided to go through one of the computers as it listed the motives, characters etc.

Deciding to look for the fourth motive, he saw the script part of that. Apparently, according to the draft, Miu was supposed to kill Kokichi in the VR after he had seen the end of the world, in a despairing state and thus an easy kill. It was in the notes that said urgently, both needed to be killed due to their partnership and the inventions they were making that could upend the game.

Just like Kaede and Rantaro. As Kokichi and Miu outlived their usefulness in the game, while also becoming a dangerous threat, but somehow Kokichi himself became higher priority.

However, the mastermind failed at that regard, upending the whole script, which must have resulted in the frenzy state the motives are in now.

Kokichi regarded this happily, meaning they were pushing the mastermind into a corner. Once the back has met the corner, striking and getting what they wanted should be easy.

Gonta, who was now standing beside Kokichi and reading the context of the script looked confused and pale at the same time.

"Ouma-kun and Iruma-san... were supposed to die?" Gonta asked, sounding extremely confused. Kokichi didn't blame him.

"We... what?!" Miu shouted when she heard what Gonta said and rushed over them, reading the draft as well, shouting, "Fucking what?! I'm too important to die!"

"Shut your hole up, Iruma-chan," Kokichi shushed as he turned off the computer and faced them.

"But," Miu protested with a moan, but was cut off by Kokichi.

"We didn't die, that's what's important," Kokichi said.

"Yet," they heard Motherkuma mutter.

"What d'ya say?" Miu asked, waving the wrench around and Motherkuma quickly said, "Nothing, nothing."

"Anyway, Iruma-chan, you think you are done with that bucket of bolts?" Kokichi asked.

"Yep, found that there's some voice activator that connects its birthing of Monokuma and disabled it," Miu said.

"Yes, and what would my spouse say to me? Oh, the horror of not making more kids and having a bigger-" Motherkuma said but was cut off by Kokichi.

"Also, Iruma-chan, I'm a little worried about the mastermind knowing it was us who did stuff like that, so..."

"Actually, this genius already got it covered," Miu bragged, "Did ya know that the thing directly connects to Monokuma? Hah! But with a little virus, our little adventure would be kept under lock and key~"

"And you also had to make me sick?' What kind of-" Motherkuma started whining but was sharply interrupted once again by Kokichi.

"So you managed to be useful and not fucked this up after all, Iruma-chan! I'm surprised!"

Actually, knowing Miu, he kinda expected that tinkering with Motherkuma, she would have added something kinky. It really was surprising that she didn't.

"Shut up!" Miu shouted back at Kokichi's backhanded insult.

"Umm... but what we do now? Gonta think we have more questions than answers," Gonta said.

Indeed they do. From Rantaro's advantage to how the script has changed. Now, that Kokichi thought of it, this whole thing seems to be more like a story than a game although there were some game elements, huh? Like the choices you make, the rebuttals you do, the game of the trials...

It was a mix then, a story and a game, but Kokichi was getting very close to uncovering the plot and getting used to the mechanics. It would be very soon that he threw the plot and deceived the mechanics. This was much better than his original plans.

What fun!

***

"Damn right we have more questions than answers 'coz that bear head refused to even tell us shit. Didn't have the damn time to make it spill," Miu scowled, "But at least I blocked the damn function of making anymore Monokumas but did you dickheads even find anything damn useful while I was working shit out?" Miu asked.

Kokichi took out the shot put ball that Gonta filched from the trash, "The final proof of the true mastermind."

"What? How?" Gonta asked. He didn't find anything of the shot put ball interesting...

Kokichi explained that there were pink fibers on this shot put ball, that were the same fibers from Kaede's sweater meaning this could be the shot put ball that failed to miss Rantaro and that the real mastermind with another shot put ball did him in while stowing the unused one here.

"So that means we can use this to blackmail the mastermind, right?" Miu asked.

"Absolutely not!" Motherkuma said, furious, "Doing it now?! This ahead? No one wants that!"

"Oh, so that means you are scared, huh? So maybe..." Miu said, but was interrupted by Motherkuma.

"If you ever try to expose the mastermind now, I will explode the Academy!" Motherkuma threatened.

"What?!" Gonta and Miu exclaimed but Kokichi was giving a thinly veiled smile.

"'Now' you say. Does that mean you don't mind if we expose the mastermind later? Huh? Why is that?" Kokichi asked.

"Huh? Why should I care what you do unless some bloodshed happens and quickly. Now, killing 'em, oui. But exposing them and now, non non. That's better saved for another time," Motherkuma said.

"Does that mean Motherkuma don't mind if mastermind killed?" Gonta asked. What does that mean?

"Why do you care?! Don't you have Flashback Lights to find? Or do you really want to explode in this place?" Motherkuma protested.

Oh yeah, the motive.

"So how do we find Flashback Lights...?" Gonta asked, although reluctant. They had long learned those flashlights were nothing but trouble.

"Oh, I can actually help with this one," Motherkuma exclaimed gleefully.

"Huh? Why?" Gonta asked. After all, that thing had been pretty uncooperative until now, and considering it's threat...

"Huh? Why not? It's not like I really want to blow up along with you kids and I do want you guys to find the Flashback Light. After all, what's the use of we prepare the motive and don't use it?" Motherkuma said.

"Tch," Miu spat, "You said you want to blow us up and then you said you don't want to blow us up. Make up your fucking mind. And if you really don't want us to explode, what's going to stop us from exposing the mastermind in the end?"

"If you want to expose the mastermind in the end, no one's going to stop you. After all, wouldn't that make a great finale? But now... no way. Respect these bear's wishes, will you?"

Gonta was extremely confused. It doesn't mind if they expose the mastermind, but just not now. Gonta really don't understand...

"Why would I-" Miu started arguing with Motherkuma but was shortly interrupted.

"Is it... because of... them? To make it... interesting?" Kokichi mused, looking straight at Motherkuma, as in question of its previous statement.

Them? Interesting?

"Ah, so you do know what's going on? Yes, yes, the mastermind was certainly right to label you as a threat, I will be glad when you are gone. Then, the show can properly go on," Motherkuma said conversationally.

"Ah..." Kokichi smirked, "So it is true then. But... I'm alive so far and I'm not the type to die so easily, you know? Nishishi."

Gonta frowned. He didn't like where this conversation was going, at all.

"So... where Flashback Lights?" Gonta quickly asked, just to end the disturbing conversation.

"The Flashback Lights are nearer than you think..." Motherkuma said slyly, not minding the change, "Here's some advice: go to your Ultimate Labs. You would find a hint of where they are."

"Hmm? But my Ultimate Lab hasn't been unlocked yet," Kokichi said.

"Why do you think Monokuma gave you those keys for? The whole school is open. Just go to your Labs," Motherkuma said.

"Huh? My Lab is open? Awesome!" Kokichi exclaimed in delight.

"But if the whole school is open, does that mean... Amami-chan's Lab is open too?" Kokichi asked, his face suddenly shadowed to give an eerie look.

Gonta's eyebrows raised.

Rantaro's Lab... Is this about the Survivor's Perk?

"I have the right to remain silent. Why on Earth you guys had to be here early? Everything is going badonkers. Goddammit," Motherkuma grumbled.

Kokichi stuck out his tongue, "Fine then."

Then, he turns around to Miu and Gonta, "I think we wasted enough time with stupid head over there, let's just go."

Miu crosses her arms, but Gonta nodded. After all, motives are important too.

But apparently Miu wasn't satisfied.

"We could have made the bear head talk if you had given me more time with it," Miu complained.

"Shut up, whore. The mastermind could have come anytime. It was better this way," Kokichi said, "And right now, it was between planning blackmail or preventing ourselves being blown up, for now, let's go with the latter. We can plan the blackmail as we prevent getting blown up by a bloodthirsty bear."

Considering the mastermind is planning to eliminate Kokichi and Miu and the motives possibly blowing up and dooming them all, Gonta had to agree.

Miu grumbled but she didn't protest. She did complain though.

"But we could have end this stupid game sooner if we get the bear to spill, goddammit! And I don't want to fucking die," Miu said, her speech pattern getting erratic.

"Iruma-san, are you-" Gonta started, getting a little worried and was interrupted for his trouble.

"DOES IT LOOK LIKE I'M FUCKING OK?" Miu shouted out loud, as they were walking, Miu gesticulating to herself.

"I mean, the fuck?! That VR fiasco, the mastermind fucking wanted to kill me from the start?! And now wants to eliminate me with these motives? That's what it fucking said! Death flags everywhere, how the fuck am I supposed to feel?" Miu asked.

"Uh... Iruma-san..." Gonta started, but in truth, he didn't know what to say. The three of them knew that the motives were all lies not worth killing over because the Flashback Lights had led them a lie, so why should they believe the eventual Flashback Lights?

But the rest don't know that. And since it somehow simulates memories, something that you can't help but trust, what's to say they won't fall for the motive, and whose to say the motive wasn't for the purpose to target someone, specifically Miu and Kokichi.

So, it's no wonder Miu became jittery, like she was having second thoughts. Kokichi was the mask of calm in comparison, sighing in an annoyed manner.

"Your head isn't the only one at the chopping block, bitch," Kokichi said, "But what are we gonna do about it? It's like we are going to die either way if things go the mastermind's way."

"That not true. Gonta protect you and Iruma-san!" Gonta declared.

Gonta wondered why Kokichi and Miu are targeted? How about him, who was also at the heart of the VR affair? Why not target him? He secretly wished that the mastermind only targeted him, because better that than losing anymore friends...

"How the fuck-" Miu started but was cut off by Kokichi again with a long suffering sigh.

"Look, Iruma-chan, sure we have targets on our back, but Gonta's right in a way, because we know what the mastermind is after and we can protect ourselves that way," Kokichi said calmly.

"Like it's that easy," Miu said, "If only we could just fucking expose the mastermind and escape this game now, then I can finally take a breather."

"Like that's easy too, Iruma-chan," Kokichi quipped.

"What...? What do you mean? We corner the mastermind, we fucking demand and we get outta here! It doesn't take a rocket scientist to know what to do!" Miu said.

"But how do we do that, Iruma-chan? How do we corner the mastermind? How do we demand for escape?" Kokichi asked.

"Why? What makes you think it won't be so easy as I think?" Miu demanded.

"Hmm... because nothing is easy, you know? Not everything is black and white," Kokichi, the person who was in black and white himself, said.

That might sound a reasonable explanation, but Gonta thought...

"Or is it because Ouma-kun hiding something from us again?" Gonta asked.

"What makes you say that?" Kokichi asked, guiless.

"Gonta not sure," Gonta frowned, "But sometimes Ouma-kun sound like he know more than he let on."

"Huh? I'm as clueless as you are. Oh, however are we going to get out of here when the mastermind is steps ahead of us? Oh whatever shall we do?" Kokichi asked, swooning overdramatically that Gonta decided was just acting. Well, he like every other person here had gotten too used to Kokichi's antics such as this to take it seriously whatsoever.

"Umm... in that case, why you tell Motherkuma about 'them'? Who 'them'?" Gonta asked.

"I don't know what you are talking about," Kokichi said dismissively.

Gonta frowned, but decided to let the matter go for now, but not Miu.

"Don't play fucking dumb," Miu said shortly, "You just said about 'them' to Motherkuma. Who is 'them'? Our captors, the people who want us here?" Miu pressed, but Kokichi smiled.

"Maaaybeee..." Kokichi singsonged as they reached a familiar door, "Come on, Gonta, let's see what's in your Lab like Motherkuma told us."

Miu and Gonta looked at each other, as Gonta said, "Are you avoiding topic again, Ouma-kun?"

Kokichi smiles but it wasn't a friendly one, "Information is dangerous, especially ones without total fact to back it up, and things lke that... it's better to not know."

"But Gonta thought we in this together?" Gonta asked tentatively.

"We sure are," Kokichi said with a smile, but behind that, he felt there were a few more words unsaid behind that statement. Just a feeling, and it made him uneasy.

"Uh huh," Miu said, her arms crossed, "Explain to me again why are we wasting time with the stupid motives when we have other things to do?"

"Do you want to get possibly blown up, Iruma-chan?" Kokichi asked.

Miu frowned. The three know that their original plan was to corner the mastermind, find any information and use it for blackmail so that they can escape. However, Monokuma's desperation manifested into motives became a setback. No one wants to die of an explosion.

So, eventually Miu sighed and gestures Gonta to open the door as she mumbled, "Let's get this over with."

Gonta opened the door with Miu and Kokichi behind, the conversation slightly forgotten but still lingering in their minds. To escape...

There was a lot more than what people would think.

Or is something just throwing a wrench and making the whole thing complicated?

There didn't seem to-

"AHHHH!" Miu screamed, stripping her clothes.

"NOT AGA-" Kokichi said before fainting.

"Huh? Who let the bugs out? Don't worry, Gonta will put you back in!" Gonta cried out in worry.

Even amidst Kokichi frothing in the mouth, Miu already in her underwear screaming bloody murder which Gonta tried very hard not to look at, he was still very calm in the swarm of bugs trying to fly into freedom, but Gonta didn't want that yet. He wanted to have more fun time with the bugs before he had to say goodbye and he was really planning a lot of special things for them...

What Gonta struck weird was that only certain type of bugs were let out. As he was gently putting them back in, he noticed only water bugs of different kinds, flies, crickets and grasshoppers were the only things let out. He decided to ask them, "Why bugs out and about? Who let you out?"

Buzzing could be heard, more insistent and relentless that made Miu squeal and moan. To a normal person, it seemed that the bugs were agitated and up to no good, scaring a normal person.

To Gonta, the insects were communicating with him.

Gonta had to learn how to speak animal a long time ago in the woods. Funnily, no matter what sounds animals make, it seems they speak a universal language the same way humans have a universal language despite the multitude of languages they possessed.

Only Gonta could understand them now, and he heard the buzzing which translated quickly into his mind.

"Bears let us out. Said something about riddle, left piece of paper."

Gonta looked around, as he finished putting the bugs in their rightful places to Miu's sigh of relief as he made his way toward a table where indeed there is a paper.

He read it with a small frown. Bugs shouldn't have to be used for such antics yet...

Upupupu. Did you like that little surprise? Did you notice the type of bugs let out in your terror and shock? As the Ultimate Entomologist, I'm sure you can see the histories of bugs that would lead you to your destination.
Monokuma.

After reading the note, he decided to check on Miu and Kokichi, but had a hard time looking at Miu as she still hadn't put on her clothes and Kokichi was still unconscious...

But still he said, "Everything OK. No more bugs loose. They all safely back in their terrariums."

"Rea- Really? No more... bugs?" Miu asked with a shiver in her voice.

"Yes," Gonta said gently although he pointedly avoided looking at Miu and made his way to Kokichi instead, checking on him.

"So can Iruma-chan please put on clothes?" Gonta asked, a little flustered but he really didn't want to see Miu nearly naked anymore.

"What? You don't want that next tush session, big guy?" Miu asked, in a teasing manner but she sounded weird as Gonta felt.

"No," Gonta have a short answer. He didn't really like the weird feeling associated with Miu being naked anyway.

"Your loss," Miu said, as she finally put her clothes back on.

"What we do with Ouma-kun?" Gonta asked.

"You got a bucket of water?" Miu asked instead.

Actually Gonta did. Sometimes he had to prepare buckets of water to hatch larvae but he got the larvae free water and handed it to Miu.

Without any hesitance, she splashed the water onto Kokichi who woke up immediately, spluttering and wiping the froth out of his mouth.

"Wha- what happened? The last thing I... wait! Please tell me the bugs are safely in their cages!" Kokichi said, and when he remembered, he was backing away hurriedly, eyes wide and frantically looking around.

"Bugs are safely inside terrariums. It OK, Ouma-kun,"'Gonta said happily. He was glad that Kokichi cared about wellbeing of bugs to inquire if they are safe. He knew Kokichi would warm up to bugs eventually.

"Phew, thank God," Kokichi said, and then walked inside the room with Miu who was finally back in her clothes, "What was that all about?"

Miu shuddered as Gonta showed them a piece of paper, "It some kind of riddle."

Miu and Kokichi read the piece of paper with a frown and fear in their eyes.

"Unbelievable. To experience the Insect Meet and Greet again because of that stupid bear," Kokichi mumbled.

"That was the worst experience I ever had... and all for that..." Miu grumbled.

After reading the piece of paper, Kokichi sighed and look at Gonta, "Any ideas?"

"Huh? Me?" Gonta asked, flustered. Why him?

"Well, this riddle was meant for you. It should mean something. Use that entomologist knowledge of yours," Kokichi said.

Entomologist... knowledge...

Water bugs, flies, crickets and grasshoppers...

Gonta sighed. He wasn't sure yet. Maybe bugs can help.

He heard their buzzing, seemingly content in their homes and that was good. He approached one of the bugs who were let loose and softly asked, "Can bugs help Gonta?"

Of course, Miu and Kokichi looked at him weirdly, but that was understandable because nearly all humans lost the language of animals a long time ago.

But not Gonta.

"The place you are looking for... I think it has to do with a shrine somewhere with water..."

"Shrine... somewhere with water...?" Gonta asked aloud.

"Are you talking about the Shrine of Judgement?" Kokichi asked.

"Huh?" Gonta asked.

"You know, the place with that fountain and statue. Do you think that the Flashback Light would be at the Shrine of Judgement?" Kokichi asked.

"Gonta don't know, but wouldn't hurt to check out," Gonta said, a little enthusiastically.

"Did the bugs actually help you?" Miu asked.

"Yes, Gonta can actually speak animal, after living in wilderness for years," Gonta explained.

"What? Really? So cool!" Kokichi exclaimed, "Does that mean you can speak to all other animals?"

"Yes," Gonta said with a smile, enthused by Kokichi's reaction.

"Well, that's cool and all, but we better jet and get those damn Lights before the bear explodes us all," Miu declared.

"Sure," Kokichi said, and happily skipped along with Miu.

While Gonta lingered behind and said to the bugs, "Thank you."

The bugs buzzed.

"You are welcome, but please be careful. Small robot bugs, we hear them... they wary of blond girl and small guy. They tell their master things and they might face some problems. Be careful with them..."

Gonta was anxious about the warning left but didn't press it, and followed Miu and Kokichi. He decided not to tell them either.

He figured the small robot bugs were the surveillance used by the mastermind, and the fact that they were aware...

Their plan might be starting but there might be as many obstacles in their way...

But Gonta decided, even if that's the case, he would protect his classmates all the same. He would also follow the advice and be careful about it.

Because in the end, they will all get out of here together.

No matter what.

Chapter Text

They were about to head toward the Shrine of Judgment, that was what they were supposed to do.

If not stopped by Kokichi, at the ground floor of the Academy as he raised his hand to stop them and turned toward them with a cheshire grin.

"What?" Miu asked, short and concise. She did not like that cheshire grin. It spelled a lot of things for her.

That he was hiding things.

That he knows more than he lets on.

And sometimes...

Miu wonders what he is truly aiming for here.

Miu wanted to escape.

Kokichi said he wanted to end the game.

At first, she thought that it was the same thing, but sometimes, she wonder if it's not.

And that... could be dangerous.

"Nishishi. If we are going to find the Flashback Lights, might as well check out my Lab and get the hint too!" Kokichi declares to Miu's question, holding up a key the bear gave him.

"Why do you think that the key would unlock your Lab?" Miu asked.

Kokichi pouted like the child he was before explaining, "Simple. The 'secret really last key'? The secret in it totally screams as in unlocking a secret lair, like an Ultimate Supreme Leader's Lab!"

"But why Ouma-kun think Lab here?" Gonta asked.

"Supreme Leader's secret," Kokichi winked.

They were in the entranceway and Miu couldn't think where the key would go in a place like this.

Kokichi was lightly tapping his feet around the floor until he stopped short on one, and crouching, he jammed the key toward the floor and twisted it.

Thus, right in front of him, a trapdoor opened revealing a stairway downwards.

"Nishishi. Of course, an evil supreme leader's Lab is underground. Onward, peasants!" Kokichi declared, as he ran downwards without care.

Immediately, Miu and Gonta followed. They were inside what looked like an industrial passageway before they reached a circular door.

Circling around it was a zodiac, with a strange, unfamiliar design at the center.

Miu opened the door, but was sprayed with water when she tried.

"Bitch, what?" Miu spluttered. Kokichi rolled his eyes.

"Of course it would be booby trapped. Don't want no intruders sneaking around my Lab," Kokichi said, looking at the door before knocking the Gemini zodiac almost hesitantly. After all, it was the first time Kokichi saw his own Lab, so maybe he would be wrong opening it his first try.

However, instead of getting water in his face, a keypad appeared at the side of the door with the words 'Enter Password'.

Then, Kokichi quickly typed in a password before the door finally opened.

"Enterez-vous?" Kokichi asked, as he went inside and looked back to the two shocked faces of Miu and Gonta.

"Why in hot hell is your Lab so... complicated?" Miu asked.

"I can answer that!"

"Wha-?!"

"Iruma-san, Ouma-kun, behind Gonta!"

"What does the bear- no, sorry, chick-en want this time?"

"And whose fault is that?!"

The one asking that in complete frustration to the chick-en remark made by the gremlin was none other than Monokuma who, once again, appeared out of freaking nowhere which caused Miu and Kokichi to enter inside the Lab standing behind Gonta who was shielding them with a fearful look.

Seriously, how does he do that?

"Anyway," Monokuma, still in chicken form, and please he stays that way it's just too funny, seemed to brushed off his anger as he made his statement, "Like Angie's Lab, Ouma's here is also made for the owner himself and what secret lair type Lab doesn't have a passcode or security measures if you open the door wrong. I mean, come on."

"OK, does the chicken have anything else or can it cock-a-doodle-do out of here?" Kokichi asked, looking bored out of his mind once Monokuma finished his explanation.

"Geez. Fine, fine. Teenagers these days. I will be really glad when you kick the bucket," Monokuma said and finally left.

Gonta sighed, but frowned at the same time when he finally eased up and looked at both Miu and Kokichi. Miu paled. In due to the Monokuma's last words.

What... is that a threat? Is it going to come true?

But before Miu can become completely ballistic, she felt something smack at her right in the face; it was a pie.

"Pysche, you should see the look at your face," Kokichi laughed.

"Ouma-kun, don't be mean," Gonta scolded because it was not justified for Kokichi smacking pie in her face for absolutely no reason.

"But isn't it delicious? I even added whipped cream for you," Kokichi said teasingly, ignoring Gonta.

"Fuck that," Miu said in response, "You didn't have to do that."

"Of course I had to! Your face looked sooo ugly just now that I decided that something sweet would make it prettier," Kokichi said, with a grin, "Now, come on, let's explore my Lab!"

Miu fumed. That little gremlin, stirring up trouble as usual. But she heeded him all the same.

Kokichi's Lab, the Ultimate Supreme Lab... truthfully, Miu had no idea what to expect, but...

"Oi, why is this place looking like some kind of childish Batcave?" Miu frankly put out her opinion.

"What...? What makes you say that, Iruma-chan?" Kokichi asked, looking slightly offended but that could be a lie.

"I mean..." Miu said, waving her arm at the whole place. The place was spacious with clown masks, wigs and disguises on a showcase along with gasmasks, and... handcuffs? Seriously? On the other side was a large table with many screens over used for probably strategy meetings, which caused Miu to wonder what kind of information would they contain there.

There was also a toy helicopter flying around and a real car next to it. Lastly was the throne with a logo over it. Kokichi's organization logo, Miu had to hazard. And altogether...

"I mean, a dark secret lair underground and that car! It looks like the Batmobile! Batcave vibes all over," Miu said.

Kokichi stuck his tongue out at Miu before he headed to the throne itself. Miu was edging toward the car, to find out if it's a working model or not. Gonta picked up a book that Miu now noticed laying inconspicuously on the floor, and was flipping it through.

The car... Imagine the things she could be doing with it...

"Eh?" Miu was stopped short of her musings when a feather fluttered before her eyes. Looking around, she saw that a barrage of feathers and... spikes were coming out of the throne that Kokichi was fooling around with, and panicked, looked at them.

"What did you do?!" Miu shouted.

"Trying to find that damn note... and this happened!" Kokichi said furiously, "Damn it, just help me find something that will turn off this mess!"

"Like what?" Gonta asked, already ready for action and waiting instructions. Miu wanted this over with, so she was in the same stance.

"I dunno... a button or something. Should be here in somewhere, I think," Kokichi said, a little vague but no matter.

So in the hail of feathers and spikes, which lucky for them were actually rubber but still annoying, they quickly searched through the Lab for anything.

In the end, within the set of monitors, Miu found a white and black button hidden among the keyboards and without thinking much, pushed it.

A beep could be heard that the throne was flashing a screen and a keypad. Typing fast, a ding came out and huge pile of confetti came from above with a note fluttering as well, and Kokichi picked it up in one fell swoop.

"What... was that about?" Miu asked.

"No idea. Makes me think that all the Labs are rigged in some way for the heck of it," Kokichi muttered, now going to the car and sitting down in it.

"I hope you didn't do anything to my car..." Kokichi said.

"Your car?" Miu asked.

"It's in my Lab, isn't it?" Kokichi mused as he held the steering wheel with a light in his eyes. He emerged with a car key and started the engine. Miu said in awe, "It fucking works?"

"Hell yeah it does!" Kokichi exclaimed, "You guys open the door while I take this thing for a spin. My lifelong dreams are coming true!"

"Ouma-kun can drive?" Gonta asked.

"Course," Kokichi said, "You play Mario Kart a million times, driving is a cinch."

"Mario... Kart...?" Gonta asked while Miu opened her mouth wide.

"Mmhm," Kokichi said, "It's a game you play in the arcade to learn how to drive, and once you win loads of times there, you can officially drive."

"Really?" Gonta asked.

"Absolutely fucking not," Miu said immediately, "That is a bona fide lie. We all know Mario Kart is not how people are licensed to drive."

"But-" Kokichi protested before a squirt and scream were heard outside his Lab. Then...

"We know someone is in here. Let us in," the voice was identifiable as one Maki Harukawa, but Kokichi did not even budge from the spot.

"Nuh uh! Password~" Kokichi singsonged.

"How would we know what the damn password is when we got here? Just let us in!" A booming voice came out and this one is known as Kaito Momota.

Huh? Both of them? Are they on a date or something?

Then, Miu heard someone sighed but wasn't from any of the two, instead...

"Ouma-kun, would you just please let us in?" And that was Shuichi. So there was also the third wheel, huh? Poor guy.

"Nuh- oi, wait, what are you-" Kokichi obviously wanted to taunt the trio further, but Gonta decided immediately just to open the door for the trio instead, where Gonta turned to Kokichi with an innocent look on his face, "No reason not to let them in, Ouma-kun."

Kokichi scowled a bit before his face plastered a more neutral expression as the trio looked around the Lab. Kaito exclaimed, "What a badass lair."

"Although childish," Maki remarked.

"Ouma-kun... is this your Lab? And what are you doing in that car?" Shuichi asked.

"Course this is my lab! What other Ultimate would have a 'totally badass but definitely not childish' lair?" Kokichi said with an air of superiority, "And I'm in this car because I'm taking it for a cruise."

"Do you even know how to drive?" Kaito asked with narrowed eyes.

"Yep," Kokichi affirmed, "Played Mario Kart plenty times to know how to drive this baby."

"Oh, good then. Worried for a sec that an unlicensed brat was going to drive wayward," Kaito sighed with relief, but Miu, Shuichi and Maki were looking at him weirdly. Maki was the one to point it out.

"You do know that playing Mario Kart doesn't mean he can drive," Maki said.

"Huh? What do you mean, Harumaki? I played Mario Kart and I drove a car no problem afterwards, so it's no problem," Kaito said with a thumbs up.

'Wait, please don't tell me he's serious,' three people thought. Also, ironically, out of the very little Kokichi and Kaito could possibly even agree on, it was on something like this?

Kokichi pointed it out too, "See? Even Momota-chan thinks I'm qualified to drive! Now, if you will excuse moi, I'm gonna drive this baby off to the sunset."

"It's not even evening yet," Maki said.

"And we have some things to tell you," Shuichi added.

"Ara? What kind of things?" Kokichi asked, a blank face on him.

"Well... after you three left so suddenly, the rest of us discussed about the motives," Shuichi started.

Silence. Miu, Kokichi and Gonta were waiting for Shuichi to continue. He did.

"We decided that once we found them, we wouldn't open the Flashback Lights until we meet again in the cafeteria... wait, you didn't find the Flashback Lights yet, right?"

Miu and Gonta shook their heads while Kokichi said, "Yup, and used 'em. A little too late, Shumai~"

Because Miu and Gonta assented the negative, Shuichi sighed in relief and ignored Kokichi, "Well, so, you guys just try to find your own Flashback Lights and don't turn them on until we meet again. We thought it would be safest if we all faced them together."

"After that, we split into groups and tried to unlock the Academy with those keys, while finding the Flashback Lights. I guess your key unlocked this Lab?" Shuichi asked.

Miu and Gonta nodded while Kokichi shook his head, "Nope. This is my Lab, so I don't need no stinking key from Monokuma to open it!"

Once again, a lie. Miu had to wonder, what was the point of lying this much when you would be caught in two seconds flat?

"Guess so. Momota-kun's key opened his own Lab, and Amami-kun's Lab although it's locked. I don't know about Kiibo-kun's yet, but that was because we saw the big stairway to underground and came here first," Shuichi said, disregarding Kokichi's lie.

"Ah, I see. So did you fuckers have any luck finding the Flashback Lights?" Miu asked.

Shuichi, Kaito and Maki nodded, as Kaito and Maki held up their notes while Shuichi held up a Flashback Light.

"Seems the notes led to these Flashback Lights," Shuichi said, "You found your notes, right?"

Gonta and Kokichi held up theirs while Miu shook her head.

"You might want to go to your Ultimate Lab. So far, that's where we have been finding these notes," Shuichi said.

"Sure, sure, now that we are done here..." Kokichi said, jumping out of the car. Apparently, driving the car to the sunset was a lie.

"Wait... did you find anything here? Anything strange?" Shuichi asked.

"Gonta found this book," Gonta stepped up, handing the book he found in the Lab to Shuichi, "But Gonta not exactly sure what it means. Gonta... don't understand."

"Hmm..." Shuichi said, as he flipped through the pages, before he handed it to Kaito. Soon, everyone got to read the contents.

And everyone didn't know what to make of it.

They had read about Hope's Peak and past killing games...

"Past killing games?!" Kaito exclaimed, "Are we... the fourth? Is this why this is happening?"

"Ouma-kun... this book was found in your Lab. Do you have any idea what this is about?" Shuichi asked.

Kokichi's face was blank before he said, "Absolutely no clue! It's not like I built this Lab, even though it's got style. In fact, ask the chicken about why he put something like that in my Lab, of all places!"

"Stop calling me a chicken!"

Once again, Monokuma appeared out of freaking nowhere, startling everyone as Gonta tried to hide as many people behind him, but Kaito and Maki, who stood alongside Gonta, were glaring at the bear.

"And why am I still a chicken when the rest who were dressed up can go back to normal?" Monokuma asked, gesturing to Kokichi, Kaito and Shuichi were out of costume.

"Who knows?" Kokichi asked mischievously as Monokuma fumed.

"So, what is the meaning of this book?" Maki asked Monokuma, straight to the point.

"Hmph, so that's where it was. Must have lost it during damn construction, you guys weren't supposed to know about any of this until much later. And whose fault is that... my sweet little Kubs?"

Suddenly Monotaro and Monophanie appeared out of nowhere, facing the wrath of their father.

Miu didn't know if it was because Monotaro called her 'Mommy', but she was feeling a little sorry for those guys.

"Um... umm... it's Monotaro's fault," Monophanie said.

"What? No I didn't... did I?" Monotaro said with a questioning look.

"Yes, yes you did," Monophanie said, "Just like it's your fault that we lost our child!"

"Wait... we were going to have a baby?" Monotaro asked.

The students pretty much learned to fine tune this stupidity and were looking at Monokuma's reactions instead, which were more important.

So, after Monokuma scolded them and gave their 'punishment' which was gross even for Miu's standards and that's saying something, he went back to them and simply said, "So you finally figured out the origin of the killing games. Good for you."

"Origin of the killing games?" Maki asked.

"Yuppers. Don't think this is my first rodeo doing this bizness, you lot were supposed to find out about this stuff a lot later, but can't help with the flip of a schedule," Monokuma shrugged, "Who knows? Maybe knowing about this would help a little with the memories you are going to obtain..."

"What the hell do you-" Kaito started but Monokuma and the Monokubs already vanished in thin air. Maki sighed. Shuichi was in his famous thinking pose. Kaito was angry. Gonta was confused. Kokichi looked puzzled.

Miu was nervous.

Multiple killing games. Miu didn't like the implications.

If they escape, would they just be dragged back into the killing game?

Miu really didn't like that information... at all, and once again, with a look towards Kokichi, she remembered...

To escape the killing game. To end the killing game.

Seems they might be different after all. But she still wondered exactly how different...

***

A mistake or a move?

It bothered Kokichi. The fact that Monokuma actually revealed... and verified for Kokichi that there were indeed multiple killing games before.

Considering the obscure references made by the bear- no, chicken, he wasn't surprised whatsoever.

And Monokuma, although annoyed they figured out, didn't even weasel his way out of their discovery but upright told them.

And anything the chicken upright tells them means it could be used to his advantage.

A mistake turned into a move?

Kokichi knew... that Monokuma reveals whatever information to them in the hopes, and possibly certainty, that they might just kill because of it.

And especially because the information was related to the motives, their 'memories', it's an utter red light.

"Past killing games... this is not the first? Maybe that's why Monokuma..." Shuichi thought aloud.

"Maybe he's just saying it to mess with us, or disorientate us," Maki said.

"It doesn't matter how many killing games that bear's done. We will just get out of this killing game, anyway!" Kaito exclaimed.

Thoughts, dismissiveness, resolution, but nothing out of the ordinary. Yet not exactly safe. It worried him, but he couldn't do much of it yet. A move was made, but he didn't have enough information to make his own, so for now...

"Wha- what is that?" Kaito asked, when Kokichi went to his throne, fiddled with it and something appeared which was...

"An elevator," Kokichi said, "As much fun as my Lab is, I have things to do, ya know?" Kokichi said, waving the note in his hand.

He had to hand it to the chicken, but he really did know how to tailor one's Lab to their Ultimate, and his Lab was a bunch of awesome and he totally took some of the awesome tools along with him for fun. And the car! But unfortunately, he had to say goodbye to his Lab.

Of course, Miu and Gonta were right behind him, which was still a strange turn of events for him. It was not that he was uncomfortable with people, he ran an organization after all, but the fact was that he had always been alone in this stupid game to finally having subordinates where they were actually mutual with each other, instead of one-sided manipulation, was something out of the ordinary.

Anyway, when Miu, Kokichi and Gonta entered the elevator, Miu first spoke out.

"Where the fuck are we going?" Miu asked.

"Outside, duh," Kokichi said, pressing a button, "We need to go to your Lab, Iruma-chan, and while we are at it, get Gonta's Flashback Light!"

"How about your Flashback Light, pipsqueak?" Miu asked.

"It's fine," Kokichi waved dismissively, "It's just that going to your Lab and retrieving Gonta's Flashback Light first would be faster than getting mine first."

He knew... because the chicken made figuring the note all the easier with the hail of feathers and spikes, that one riddle within his throne and finally that note.

The riddle that came out when Miu pressed the button was a screen containing a question and a number keypad.

'What was the dice number thrown for the Russia takeover?'

Kokichi frowned slightly when he saw that question but easily answered with '7' before that ding was heard.

It bothered him... the mastermind knowing about his Russia takeover. And about DICE's modus operandi. That they throw the dice to see how many days left until doing the actual crime.

Before the Russia takeover, DICE threw the dice leading to 7 and it was 7 days later that they took over Russia. But... it was hushed up.

So how on earth did the mastermind know?

Then again, how on earth does the mastermind even know about their pasts? The Kubs Pads proved they know to a certain extent.

Did they extract such information when messing with their minds as they wiped their memories, or something else?

Either way, nothing good.

Back to the note:

Like my little show? Had a blast to the past? I hope so! Also, because you are such a tease for an Ultimate Supreme Leader, here's a little riddle for you; Light and darkness, within a dice's throw and through the hail see the truth. Found the answer? That's where the Flashback Light is.
Monokuma

Considering the feathers and spikes, that question... and now light and darkness. He knew where it is, but leave that for later.

Soon enough, they made their way up and after discussion, decided to make their way toward Miu's Lab, and saw Himiko, Tsumugi and Kiibo looking traumatized outside.

"Huh? Why you three look like that? Is everything alright?" Gonta immediately asked, concerned for those three's well-being.

Tsumugi gave a strained smile, "We will be OK... in a while," the last part was said in a whisper but still heard by Kokichi before she turned around to Miu and said, "Actually, it's a great thing Iruma-san is here. We really need your help."

"Huh? My help? For what Plainmugi?" Miu asked, crossing her arms and an almost hostile glance given to the girl but stopped by Kokichi who stomped her in the foot, which made her look at him irritatingly.

No one paid much attention to Miu's attitude because it was just Miu being Miu, but Kokichi didn't want Miu to be too hostile with Tsumugi otherwise she would pick it up and find out that maybe Miu knows. Not happening.

Meanwhile, Kiibo decided to answer Miu's question, "Well, Iruma-san, we were trying to get to my Lab, but... well, we had a problem with your Lab."

To get to Kiibo's Lab, they had to pass through Miu's, but Kokichi wondered what the hell is wrong with Miu's Lab right now. Miu was wondering the same thing.

"What about my Lab?" Miu asked.

"Well... it has to do with your inventions-" Kiibo started but was interrupted by Miu crying, "My babies! What has that bear done?"

And she opened the door...

To utter madness. No wonder Kiibo, Himiko and Tsumugi were traumatized. For the sake of Gonta's innocence, everyone else tried very hard to turn Gonta away and reassure him Miu can handle the situation in the Lab when Gonta said he wanted to help.

After all, only Miu could handle that in her Lab. Because...

Kokichi swore he saw some crazy looking dildo, maybe tentacles, weapons of destruction and... what the hell did his eyes see? Somethings should be rightfully censored, goddamn it! He didn't even go into the Lab and he was nearly traumatized.

Sometimes, things are really best left unknown.

Eventually, Miu made it out of her Lab, note in hand and with a grin on her face, "All done. Not too much damage on my babies. Lucky that you losers didn't do much to them."

"More like they did a lot to us..." Himiko muttered, and once again, Kokichi thanked his lucky stars he didn't even experience anything in there.

"So..." Kiibo said, "Let's go to my Lab."

"Gonta wonder what would happen at Kiibo-kun's Lab..." Gonta murmured, as they made their way to Kiibo's Lab.

"What do you mean, Gonta-kun?" Tsumugi asked.

"Gonta thinks... something always happen when go to Lab..." Gonta said, and went on about the bugs loose in his Lab (Kiibo, Himiko and Tsumugi gave pitying glances toward Kokichi and Miu) and the feathers and spikes at Kokichi's.

Himiko and Tsumugi seemed to agree with Gonta and said their statements about what happened at their Labs.

"All my spells were in a jumble but nothing I can't fix. But it was really annoying dealing with them," Himiko said.

"My cosplay was in a mess, and they dare..." Tsumugi went to a complete rant about her cosplay with references only a total otaku will get. Since none of them were otakus, they were all puzzled, except Kokichi with a little anime knowledge only understanding half whatever Tsumugi said.

"Makes me wonder what Kii-boy's Lab will have in store. Ooh! Ooh! What if his cool robot parts in there were set off? That would be awesome!" Kokichi said, all too excited at the prospect.

"I'm sure my Lab would do nothing of a- err... actually, everyone stay back when I open the door, just in case," Kiibo said, midway denying Kokichi's statement to realizing he has a point.

And Kiibo was right to do so. As soon as he reached his Lab and opened the door...

"Awesome!" Kokichi exclaimed among the other's screams with Gonta in front of all of them trying to protect them and Kiibo and Miu going in together to sort out with it. Since the chaos that was Kiibo's Lab is rated G as in safe even for Gonta's innocence unlike Miu's Lab before which went above and beyond X rated, as in never again, Kokichi decided to look around the Lab and hopefully see some cool robot things.

The Lab did not disappoint. Rocket launchers, rocket punches, a few lasers. Why wasn't Kiibo equipped with stuff like this? Kiibo would be totally awesome with such stuff, like make him into a Transformer!

Soon enough, like Miu's, Kiibo managed to dismantle the machinery and get his note in turn. For some unknown reason, while reading it, Kiibo was blushing bright red, which still confused Kokichi to this very day. Exactly how are robots supposed to blush?

Miu read it too, and blushed a little too, but with a proud yet embarrased grin to her face too. Kokichi, being the curious and nosy busybody he is, immediately went to their faces and said in an obnoxious voice, "Hey, hey, what's this note about that it got you both red in the faces?"

Kokichi snatched the note from Kiibo and totally read what was embarrassing them and almost regretted it. It was so cringy:

All those explosions and lasers. Something your body can get a boo boo over, so why don't you go for maintenance? You are sure to find that it could fix more than just your body, except you don't fix your body by yourself, right? Even as the Ultimate Robot, you always go for someone to fix it up, don't you~ Go there yourself and get your body fixed while having a memory fix together... you lovebirds, and you know who I'm talking about :p
Monokuma

"So... even the chicken picked up that you guys are dating or having... s-e- mmph!" Kokichi said, as Tsumugi's hand immediately went to Kokichi's mouth and hissed, "Not another word."

"Huh? What's wrong?" Gonta asked immediately, in defensive stance. Because Tsumugi was the mastermind and Gonta knows, it wasn't a surprise that Gonta would not be worried that Tsumugi might do something bad.

But Himiko explained everything to him, "Don't worry, Gonta. Shirogane is just making sure Ouma doesn't dirty your ears."

"Huh? How dirty Gonta's ears? Gonta don't think there any dirt..." Gonta said, rubbing his ears clean to check for it.

No one said anything to that statement, unsure how to answer, and decided to move on with their lives even with a confused Gonta in it. Tsumugi released Kokichi, and Kiibo snatched the note to rip it in shreds so no one sees it.

"Never again..." Kiibo muttered before going to Miu's Lab and finding a Flashback Light underneath an operating table where Kokichi deduced was the place that Miu helped Kiibo do their 'maintenance'.

"Hey, Kiibs," Miu said once Kiibo already retrieved his Flashback Light, "Have you unlocked anything with that key of yours?"

"Hmm... no, not yet. Why?" Kiibo asked.

"Well, my note doesn't make any shit sense unless a new place is unlocked, you know?" Miu said.

"Hmm... I did see that big door in the courtyard, and that keyhole next to it. Why don't we try there?" Tsumugi suggested. Everyone agreed.

Thus, they found themselves facing that big door and opening it, they found...

"It sure does give a sci-fi feeling. I feel like a mecha can jump out at any moment," Kiibo said. Kokichi smiled at that absurd statement. He had to take this opportunity.

"Ahh! A mecha!" Kokichi shouted, pointing somewhere far off which made Kiibo jumped.

"Where?" Kiibo asked, worried.

"Over there," Kokichi said, immediately pointing at Kiibo which made Kiibo give a confused look before he realize what Kokichi meant.

"That is not funny. That's just robophobic."

"But you are a mecha!" Kokichi exclaimed, "So you must be feeling very at home in this place, and when other mechas come out, you can just shoot them off with your lasers!"

"I do not have any lasers!" Kiibo deadpanned. Kokichi's face fell. Why couldn't the robot have any cool weapons? Was his childhood dreams about robots just a lie?

"What do you have then?" Kokichi snarked, but Kiibo seemed not to notice the bite and went on explaining. Used to Kiibo and Kokichi's banter, the gang went ahead without them, and noticing this, Kokichi went to ignoring Kiibo and following them.

Kiibo noticed this too as he was explaining his AI something and followed in a fluster. Soon enough...

"A shutter?" Tsumugi asked.

"Nishishi, with really good enforcements!" Kokichi pointed out the electric barrier.

"Nyeh, I could easily remove this barrier with my magic... if I had enough mana. Too bad," Himiko said.

"Well, it won't do just standing around. I will just see if there's anything there that can shut down the barrier," Kiibo said, but Miu who was examining the shutter itself paled.

"Wait, Kiibs-" Miu said, but it was too late with Kiibo already at the shutter and a blaring alarm sounding throughout the place. Tsumugi and Himiko were closing their ears as Miu looked exasperated. Gonta was in a panic mode. Kokichi just laced his hands behind his hands looking slightly amused.

"Ehh? Why loud alarm?" Gonta asked, as the alarm kept on blaring. By then, Monokuma made its appearance.

"Sheesh, kids these days. Not looking before leaping. Now step away from that shutter as I shut down the alarms!" the chicken said, as Kiibo quickly did so, and with a remote, shut down the alarm.

Quiet mercifully saved their ears as Tsumugi tentatively asked a question, "What... what was that?"

"Motion sensor alarm, right?" Miu asked, pointing upward to which the rest finally noticed the strange object which was blinking green, "But why did it have to be so damn loud?"

"Yes indeed, and it has to be loud so I know when nosy intruders snoop around this place," Monokuma said with an offended look on his face.

"While I'm here, I might as well explain the electric barrier. To turn it off, you need to enter a 59 digit code at this control panel here. I will only tell you once so here it goes," Monokuma said, and in one breath...

"5039348578573629405169285811037959390029298778848-" Monokuma said until he was interrupted by Kiibo.

"Wait, 503- what are the rest of the numbers?" Kiibo asked.

"What? Only 3 numbers? I know you can do better than that, robot!" Monokuma chided.

"Yeah," Kokichi said, joining in the bandwagon, "I thought robots are supposed to have AIs that can memorize more than 3 measly digits, huh?"

"Why did I have to have such a robophobe for a classmate?" Kiibo groaned, but Kokichi didn't answer. Instead, he was looking at Monokuma, with his foot tapping impatiently on the floor, "Well, can we go in, or not? I thought you unlocked the whole school for us, after all."

"Well..." Monokuma said, but the Kubs suddenly appeared, protesting against them.

"But Daddy, you can't let them in there!" Monophanie cried, "What if they did something?"

"Yeah, you put security up there for a reason!" Monotaro added.

Hmm... Kokichi's interest was piqued, so to speak. And he smiled mischievously with that. It was time to ruffle some feathers, pun intended.

"Nishishi! So, there must be something really fun in there. And you don't want us in, but... too bad! We can go in there, anyway, because surely Iruma-chan's Flashback Light is in there, and you don't want us to blow up... right, Monochikin?" Kokichi asked playfully.

"It's Monokuma you damn brat! And... this is a one time thing only, anyway. After all, only I know the password and have this nifty alarm remote!" Monokuma said.

The Kubs protested but was ignored. Kokichi's gears started whirling, thinking of so many oddities. A mistake turned into a move?

First, revealing multiple killing games, and then letting them in a high security place? It's like they are not worried... or pretending not to be. They are either in complete control... or completely underestimating Kokichi.

Kokichi subconsciously glanced at Tsumugi. Just because there is some underestimation does not mean he would underestimate anything.

And if the mastermind thinks that they are in complete control, well... they will have another thing coming.

***

The shutter... Monokuma turned off the alarm and punched the code removing the barrier. Kokichi immediately skipped to the place. Gonta followed.

Gonta always followed, with the hope everything will be alright.

Gonta still followed, trying to protect everyone within sight.

But Gonta wanted answers as he was following with the hope they would be used to reach the end goal.

He didn't mind the trouble Miu and Kokichi stirred as long as there were no more bad consequences.

He didn't mind the revelation against Tsumugi even though it made him a little worried she would do something bad against them, which brought his guard up. Yet a small voice was telling him that she had a reason, and wanted to believe it.

What he minded was the confusing answers he was getting.

In the mastermind's lair about Kaede and Rantaro, about Kokichi and Miu. In Kokichi's Lab, about past killing games and memories.

He didn't know what the past killing games meant but instincts were telling him to be careful about it.

He wanted to ask Kokichi or Miu about it but it wasn't the time, as they searched for the motives.

Even now, with dread as he opened the shutter, he still didn't like looking for the motives. He was scared of them, especially ever since they made him do that at the VR world.

But for now, all he can do is follow... and protect.

"Holy hot wax!" Miu shouted as she reached inside the shutter, and everyone although not in the same words, shared the same sentiments.

It was a big room filled with... Exisals!

"Nyeh! We... we should run," Himiko said.

"Yes," Kiibo affirmed, as the rest were slowly backing away from the Exisals, "It's too dangerous with all 5 Exisals!"

"You guys are so dumb," Kokichi said, as he shuffled closer to the Exisals if not for Gonta stopping him midway, "They are deactivated, and only the Kubs can control them, so there's nothing to worry about!"

"Hey... he's right. The Exisals are deactivated!" Miu exclaimed, now reaching closer to the Exisals themselves, "I have always wanted to get close to one and see how-"

Suddenly, Monokuma and the Kubs appeared out of nowhere and stopped Miu from coming any closer.

"Not anytime soon, missy, or ever," Monokuma declared at Miu's statement, "You think we beefed up security just to let you brats in and mess with the Exisals. No way."

"But you let us in, anyway," Kokichi pointed out.

"Only one time! Because of her Flashback Light!" Monokuma shouted, pointing to Miu, "Once you lot are outta here, I'm going to turn on the electric barrier and the alarm back!" Monokuma declared.

"But why Monokuma let us in here anyway? Why put Flashback Light here if don't want us here?" Gonta wondered aloud.

Silence. Monokuma was now looking at Gonta weirdly. It put his guard up.

"Huh, I really wonder why is that, huh?" Kokichi asked, diverting Monokuma's attention to Kokichi instead, "Is it that you just want to show off this place or something?"

The bear was completely silent before saying, "But of course! Need to keep you guys on your toes, yeah? Fear the great Exisals which hold power over you puny humans, manned by my precious Kubs. Daddy is so proud of you."

The Kubs reacted well with that praise, as Monokuma continued talking.

"Okie dokie. Explore this place to your heart's content and find your Flashback Light. Don't want you guys to go ba-boom, right?"

And thus, Monokuma and the Kubs disappeared, leaving them in their lonesome.

"Only the Monokubs are able to control the Exisals, right?" Kiibo asked.

"Well, that's what Monokuma says..." Tsumugi pointed out, but Miu was looking at the Exisals with great interest.

"Or- ouch! Why do you always do that?" Miu started saying but interrupted herself when she gave Kokichi something akin to the death glare and rubbing her foot.

"What? I did nothing, Iruma-chan~" Kokichi said.

"Yeah, right, you just stomped on my foot!" Miu shouted.

"Did not."

"Did too."

"Did not."

"Did too."

"Umm... Gonta think this good time to leave them alone?" Gonta asked the others.

The other three agreed, leaving them to their lonesome and Gonta would too, if Kokichi didn't whisper, "Wait, Gonta."

"What?" Gonta asked, and again, it was just the three of them. Kokichi's playfulness and mischief seemed to be gone at that instant, replaced with a serious and blank look. Somehow that unnerved both Miu and Gonta.

"What?" Miu asked, and a short silence later, "Does it have to do with interrupting me just now?"

"I don't like this," Kokichi said, hushed and serious.

"What?" Gonta asked. Actually, it was the same feeling Gonta has been having, but was it about the same thing?

"The multiple killing games," Kokichi said, "And letting us in here."

"Huh? What's wrong with letting us in here?" Miu asked.

Kokichi gave her a withering glance before looking around at the other three, his glance lingering on Tsumugi before saying cryptically, "Not here, not now. But... be careful with what you are going to say, especially around her or the bears. We need every advantage we can get."

And then Kokichi left them to their puzzlement, as Miu went off her own, mumbling something similar to 'duck' and 'witch' and other words that some of his classmates said to pay no mind when he didn't understand whatever Miu said.

Anyway, exploring the place, it was filled with Exisals, with a few machinery that can clean them and give them make up, according to Kiibo.

There was also a bathroom where they found the Flashback Light swimming in the toilet. Everyone was disgusted to take it out, so Gonta offered to do it as the gentleman he was, and made sure to clean it thoroughly.

Meanwhile, Miu was complaining.

"Why was the Flashback Light in the toilet of all places?" Miu ranted.

"Maybe to match with your potty mouth?" Kokichi teased.

"Why you little..." Miu said irritated and they went down to their arguing banter which the rest of the students long learned to ignore thanks in part to their personalities.

After they retrieved the Flashback Light, Kiibo pointed out the hydraulic press.

"Why would they have something like that?" Himiko asked.

"To scrap decommissioned Exisals, I guess," Kiibo speculated.

"Also it seems you can control the hydraulic press using that control panel there," Kiibo said, pointing upwards.

"There's an up and down button, as well as an emergency stop button," Tsumugi remarked, "There's also a safety notice written here." Then, Tsumugi read it aloud.

"The hydraulic press has an infra red sensor. When it detects a living being... it automatically stops for safety reasons."

"If someone accidentally ended up in the press, like sleeping there, the machine would stop, huh?" Himiko remarked.

"Hmm..." Kiibo said, looking at the press.

"Kiibs, what's up?" Miu asked, noticing something up with Kiibo.

"What do you think of the safety function?" Kiibo suddenly asked.

"The safety function? Err... what about the safety function?" Miu asked, with a puzzled look in her face.

"... Let's give it a try," Kiibo said.

"Give what a try?" Tsumugi asked, but not before Kiibo went under the press.

"Kiibo-kun, what are you doing?" Gonta asked, in a worried tone. He didn't know exactly what that press would do, but it looked dangerous, as dangerous as... Himiko's magic trick with those piranhas...

"I just want to try it!" Kiibo insisted.

"Try what?" Himiko asked lazily.

"If a press comes to a stop when it detects a person, what will happen if it detects me?" Kiibo asked.

"Kiibs no!" Miu shouted, seeming to get it and was already at Kiibo's side, trying to pull him out of the press.

"Kii-boy yes!" Kokichi shouted, and everyone noticed that he was already at the control panel, trigger happy for the button.

"What are you doing there?!" Miu shouted.

"What? If Kiibo wants to try some cool experiment like this, who am I to stop this? This is so interesting!" Kokichi exclaimed.

"But it's dangerous! The sensor might not work!" Miu pleaded.

"Yeah, you shouldn't be crushed like this," Tsumugi added.

"Gonta don't want Kiibo-kun to be in danger," Gonta stated.

"Don't worry. If I sense any danger, I'll move out of the way, and Ouma-kun can stop it when it gets dangerous," Kiibo reassured, "Please! I just really want to try it out. If I don't, I will never be able to rust in peace."

"Rust in peace? Nishishi. That's actually pretty funny," Kokichi laughed, "And even Kii-boy wants this! What's the worse that could happen? C'mon, people, respect the bot's wishes!"

"For once, Ouma-kun is right. Would you really not want me to rust in peace?" Kiibo pleaded.

"I really don't want you to rust at all," Miu muttered, "And why is this so important to you?"

"Because..."And Kiibo was blushing now, as he whispered something to Miu. Afterwards Miu gave him a long look as he said again, "Please."

Miu huffed, "You better not die on me. Start it up, Cockichi."

"Iruma-san, Kiibo-kun, you guys sure?" Gonta asked, still worried for a friend's safety but Miu and Kiibo were not budging.

Miu whispered to Gonta, "Just let him have his wish, and nothing bad will happen. We will be there."

Gonta didn't like this, but he knew when to back down. If the others insist it's OK, it would be OK.

But it wouldn't hurt to be near Kiibo just in case things go haywire.

"OK, I'm going to start it up right now. No take backs, Kii-boy!" Kokichi said.

"Certainly not! Now, ready as I will ever be," Kiibo said, and with a flourish, Kokichi started up the thing, as the press went closer and closer. Was it getting too near?

"Kiibo-kun!" Gonta cried, as he reached out Kiibo's body and pulled him out before the press kept on getting closer and stopping a second later.

"Kiibs! Are you alright?!" Miu asked.

"Yes, I will be fine," Kiibo reassured and then looked at Gonta, "Thank you, Gonta-kun."

"You are welcome," Gonta said, and as Kiibo smiled, he looked at Kokichi with an angry look in his face, "I thought you would stop the thing when it gets dangerous. My life flashed before my eyes!"

"What? Life can flash before robot's eyes?" Kokichi asked, "And I totally stopped the thing! See? It's not even all the way down. Gonta was just way faster!"

It was true. The press was just an inch away from where Kiibo once laid, but still... it was a close one.

"But still... it seems I am not a human to this press," Kiibo said.

"Well, you are a robot after all. Robots can't be humans, silly," Kokichi said.

Don't listen to him, Kiibs. So you are not human, but you are one amazing robot. You should be proud of that Kiibs, you know?" Miu said to Kiibo's despondent and irritated look (after Kokichi's statement).

Then Miu whispered something to Kiibo that made him bright red.

"Is Kiibo-kun alright?" Gonta asked at Kiibo's flushing gave. Is Kiibo sick? Can robots get sick?

"I'm... I'm fine..." Kiibo said, "Now that's done... shall we get going?"

"Yeah, I had enough excitement for one day," Tsumugi said.

Himiko nodded as she said, "I'm going to the cafeteria. Maybe I will get something to bite after all that experience."

"Iruma-san, are you coming?" Kiibo asked Miu, after both Tsumugi and Himiko left, but she shook her head.

"Nah, not yet, but I will see ya there, alright Kiibs?" Miu said, and after one last look, Kiibo left.

"Kii-boy and Iruma-chan, sitting on a tree, f-u-c-" Kokichi sang but was pulled by the ear by Miu, and rubbing it, he snapped, "Watch it lady."

"What are you? Five?" Miu shot back at Kokichi.

"And what's wrong with that?" Kokichi shrugged, "I'm just acting my age is all. We are too young to be mature anyway. Anyway, shouldn't we get going? Mine and Gonta's Flashback Lights after all."

"Tsk. Fine. But we are going to talk about it anyway," Miu said, as they left the hangar.

"About what?" Kokichi asked.

"Tsk. Don't act stupid. You started it after all. Mind telling us why you didn't like Monokuma letting us in there?"

"Didn't you think it's strange? Letting us in to the place where the Exisals are, of all places even when he had security there just not to let us in? What is that chicken playing at?" Kokichi asked.

Gonta scratched his head. Miu shook her head. And then, Kokichi said, "And the past killing games. Why would Monokuma want us to know about that?"

"Isn't information fake?" Gonta asked, "Flashback Lights were lies? Why past killing games not a lie?"

"Sure they are lies," Kokichi said, "But Monokuma always has a reason showing us these types of things..."

"So Gonta just think we should ignore it," Gonta gave his piece, "If we ignore it, no one will kill."

If Gonta had ignored the end of the world, he wouldn't have the urge to kill after all.

"I don't think that it's that easy, Gonta," Miu said, and then with a look to Kokichi, "And you are lying, aren't you?"

"Moi? Lying? Not in a million years!" Kokichi asked.

They already reached the Shrine of Judgement, and were searching the fountain with that Monokuma statue, but continue their talk.

Miu snorted, and then said, "Now, that's a lie. But I think you were lying about the multiple killing games. You know... do you? That there were actually past killing games. And you are worried about it."

Kokichi was silent, as he finally said, "Finally know how to point out the lies of a liar, huh, Iruma-chan?"

"That's easy," Miu huffed, "Assume everything you say is a lie and point it out. It's not that hard."

"Yet everyone here would usually believe whatever I say if I didn't end it with 'That's a lie.'" Kokichi remarked.

"Gonta found Flashback Light," Gonta announced when he took it out from the jug the buff Monokuma was holding.

"Now all's left is mine..." Kokichi said, "Let's go."

"Oi, Ouma, don't think the convo is over yet," Miu said, "What do you know about these past killing games? Does that mean that even if we escape, we would just be sent back?"

Gonta didn't think like that, and he didn't want to believe it. Kokichi shook his head, as he threw his hands up.

"Like I know, bitch. One thing at a time, OK?" Kokichi said, but Miu was having none of that.

"But... what if we die because we didn't know. I know that the fucking mastermind wanted to off this gorgeous girl genius! I can't afford that!"

"Unless there's a crazy ax wielding psychopath waiting for us, we will be fine. Did you really expect that we could wrap everything up so easily? It's no surprise that Monokuma will make his own moves against us," Kokichi said.

"But what can we do?" Miu threw up her hands in frustration.

"Actually, we are not done exploring yet," Kokichi winked, "After the rendezvous with the motives at the cafeteria, we still have a place or two that maybe might help us~"

"And they are?" Miu demanded but Kokichi put his finger on his lips. Miu grumbled.
Gonta tried to reassure her.

Eventually they made it to the fifth floor where they were standing in front of the angel and demon statues. Kokichi started up at them as Gonta asked, "That where Ouma-kun Flashback Light is?"

"Sure," Kokichi said, "But I don't know where exactly... light and darkness..."

"We just fucking search around and get it done with," Miu scoffed, and they did, but to no avail. Eventually, Kokichi was looking up at the angel statue before starting to climb it.

"Ouma-kun?!" Gonta asked worriedly.

"Don't worry about it Gonta! Did you know that I'm part monkey?" Kokichi said.

"That would explain your attitude..." Miu muttered.

Kokichi climbed throughout the angel statue but found nothing. And then, it was the devil statue, which Gonta kept a close eye.

He will make sure his friends come to no harm.

"Woah," Kokichi said, "Why in the Devil's mouth?" After all, he pulled out a Flashback Light from there.

"Maybe because of the shitty lies you spewed like the devil spawn you are?" Miu said.

"Rude," Kokichi said, sticking his tongue out before, "Woah."

Kokichi lost his footing at the statue as he responded to Miu and fell...

Right into Gonta's arms.

"Ouma-kun OK?"

"Sure, thanks,"'Kokichi said.

Gonta smiled.

"No problem, Ouma-kun. After all, Gonta wants to protect friends," Gonta said, and that will never change.

Kokichi actually smiled back, before saying, "Before we go to the cafeteria, I better put this stuff into my room."

Kokichi had been carrying a bag, probably from the warehouse all day round, the shot put ball inside, Gonta remembered, among many other things.

"And after that, whatever happens next, what we remember..." Kokichi said, and Gonta knew where Kokichi was getting at.

"Like the fuck we will believe those useless shit," Miu said, "What d'ya take us for, shota?"

Gonta smiled, as he said, "Yeah, no worries, Ouma-kun."

"Nishishi. If you say so~ Well, let's get going then!"

Yes, lets.

Chapter Text

"So everyone finally found their motive?" Shuichi asked.

Everyone nodded in affirmation as they all held out their Flashback Lights, some eager than most.

But Miu just wanted this to be over with.

After the mutual agreement of the three to never trust Flashback Lights after the VR world, this was nothing more than a waste of time to Miu.

"What are we waiting for? Let's turn these babies on, unless you guys want to go boom boom," Kokichi said.

But the Academy would explode if they don't turn it on.

"Nyeh, let's just get this over with," Himiko said, "Why are we doing this together and not when we first found the Flashback Lights...?"

"We already discussed this, Yumeno! So, that we will be there for each other when the motive is done and over with. We need to be together so no one would be alone doing any stupid decisions over this!" Kaito declared.

Miu wanted to roll her eyes at that. Will that even help? Now that Miu realized it, they have so far just ignored motive after motive and this time 'round, they were facing it head on.

How do you deal with that? She scanned nervously at the people. After all... but she was met with a smirk of Kokichi's and a reassuring smile of Gonta's.

Miu then looked at the Flashback Light, and after a little hesitation, she turned it on.

Just don't believe it...

Flash

Miu Iruma was in a school uniform unfamiliar, a white shirt with an orange bow and a brown skirt. She was cowering against a rabid mob.

"But... but you got the wrong person..." Miu whimpered.

They ignored her. She backed away, but she was surrounded.

"Don't make this any harder than it has to be."

"You can't defy us. After all, we know..."

"I have nothing to do with your damn cult!" Miu screamed.

The cult where mankind deserves damnation, the cult where they tried to fail the project created by countries, the Gofer Project. The cult that initiated the... Ultimate Hunt.

But she had absolutely nothing to do with it...

"That's because you don't know."

"But it's not fooling us."

"The Gofer Project must fail."

"But I don't have anything to do with it!" Miu exclaimed.

"Yes, you do, and it would be soon that you will know your heinous purpose and be brought to the light that it shall not be fulfilled."

And after those words, she was trussed up and blindfolded. In blackness, she could hear the screeching of tires, felt herself thrown into cold steel and felt the rumble of movements.

Miu was only trying to get groceries, for God's sake. How did it turn to shit like this?

'Fucking cult...' Miu thought, very pissed off with her situation.

That was just the life they were living now... watching behind their backs, until someone fixes this upside down world.

'Ha, as if!' Miu thought.

After all, even if she hated the cult, they were damn right about one thing: The Gofer Project was going to fail.

Because of course she was the right person they were looking for. Of course, she knew why she was hunted down. It was Hope's Peak's fault for this. It was the stupid meteorites. It was politics. And the Gofer Project...

Miu briefly remembered 15 other people, fear, rebuttal, refusal, the funeral... a bulky headset, closed eyes, anger, retaliation.

Running away... their 'deaths'. It was all a blur, but it brought Miu to this moment, to know a hatred for both the Gofer Project and the cult.

Miu shivered... and if that wasn't enough, it awakened the hope and despair, just like... with Junko Enoshima...

And everyone knows what happens in a clash of hope and despair. Miu really wanted nothing to do with it...

But here she was now, tied up like a pig to a slaughter by this fucking cult with no damn idea on what they are going to do with her...

It was a second, a minute, an hour, a day, but the damn truck stopped and she was trussed up before she was thrown out of the truck and then, the blindfold was ripped from her and she was in a dimly lit hallway, walking through it until Miu was thrown into a cell.

"What are they going to do to me?" Miu whimpered, and there... she saw the sadistic... no, the despairing smiles of her kidnappers.

"We are going to do a lot of things, but why should we tell you? But shouldn't it be obvious what we want from you?"

"You... are going to despair. Once you do, then... you will truly know your purpose. And mankind will truly deserve the damnation it gets. That those hopeless fools will truly understand!"

And no more words were said after that. They showed Miu... a flashlight, the same flashlight the Miu now recognized but this Miu simply looked puzzled over.

But she was in a memory, not at the moment, so she could only feel dreaded fear but could do nothing...

"From our intel, before you 'died', you used to be the Ultimate Inventor. Shame because you would have definitely get a kick out of these Lights. But that doesn't matter now. Just that you will know... the despairing truth, the things those hopeful bastards decided to hide..."

"When they brainwashed you..."

And without another word, the flash was made.

And Miu remembered everything. What the Gofer Project omitted, with those bulky headsets Miu presumed, as she briefly saw 15 others... the same people with her... panicking... escape, how they were there in the first place?

Because...

'Angie Yonaga...' Miu thought.

The person among them that betrayed them, the one that openly betrayed them to the Gofer Project, and...

If not for herself finding out and planning an escape away from the Gofer Project, but Angie wasn't the only one, and running away will not-

"No," Miu gasped, new details sprouting other than Angie being the only person to betray them, as another flashed, one from Angie's influence, and then, when the Gofer Project did to Angie as they escaped...

"Nyahaha..."

"...cocky cult bitch!"

"NO!"

"Oh my..."

Two people fighting.

"I... you... YOU...!"

But the last voice was neither of the duo.

The Flash wore off. Miu whimpered. Her kidnappers cooed over her.

"The flush of despair over her face. No wonder Enoshima-sama revered in that~"

"As it was meant to be, and you know..."

"Know what?" Miu asked, whimpering. These... these sadistic fuckers...

Those two kidnappers looked at each other before they grinned menacingly.

"What else but despair, dear? When the meteorites were a sign... a sign to despair that mankind deserving damnation and the Gofer Project resisting. We can't have that. Instead, we will drain their hope by reliving the worst despair ever known to man!"

"No... you can't mean...?" Miu asked.

"Upupupu. What else do you think I mean, dear? And we have a few plans for you too, as well as the others..."

Others... they have caught other people than Miu...

'I don't want to die.'

It was such a random thought, but Miu wasn't stupid to know now what that insane cult was planning. With the 16 of them... another will start. She knew it.

And... she didn't want to die because of it.

'Please let this be a nightmare... please let this be a nightmare...'

"Of course, we are going to take our sweet time with you. Whether you are worthy of Enoshima-sama to be the one... and if not, we will just plant a little despair in your head, like we did with that one... who was it again?"

"A red headed small girl, but she wasn't worthy enough to be her disciple. Now, let's try with this one."

"And... and what if I'm not worthy to become that bi- her disciple?" Miu, who was about to cuss, held back. She didn't want to anger her would-be torturers...

"Like I said, plant a little despair... to have an... incentive... depending on how much you despair, we can give you plenty incentives!"

"Even if you don't remember this, it will always be ingrained in your mind, dear. To kill or be killed, to hope or despair... the killing game, the one thing that is capable to destroy hope, will live on, never end!"

"And even if you remember this, it won't stop... won't stop your death if the despair inside someone... like, I don't know, a certain Ultimate Magician, runs rampant and hones in on someone..."

Miu shuddered... she knew who they meant, Himiko Yumeno, because when Angie betrayed, Miu tried to escape... a tangle, reinforcements, misfire... no one was dead of course, but very close... and that cannot be forgotten.

"It will never stop... the killing game will never end... it's the same for all you teenagers, so much tamed bloodlust. Must be all those shooting games, like PUBG and COD..."

"Eh, who cares? I wonder if you despair, who will you target? What will you do? Upupupu... I wonder..."

There came the torture, the analysis, the depravity.

The questioning, the opportunities, the wasted.

The pleas, the hopeless thoughts, the despair.

And understanding what that despair will do when they get there...

'I don't want to die.'

'Then who will I kill so I don't die?'

It was already a fact that it will happen. Everything is hopeless...

'Kokichi Ouma...' a voice whispered.

'Angie Yonaga...'

'Himiko Yumeno...'

"She's really feeling it!"

"But she's not worthy..."

"It doesn't matter. Look at all the despair in the dear. Even when she forgets her memories, she would always be afraid... always on the lookout, she will be a great killer... and will bring such despair to herself, like a few others we found..."

"Just like that maid and the masked boy... too bad... others..."

Miu was starting to black out, her body to the limit from... whatever that was... but she could hear some more words...

"... back soon... Gofer Project..."

"... start... the disciple... Monokuma..."

"... begin the inevitable killing game, and no one can stop it!"

Flash

'What... the fuck was that?' Miu thought as she gasped blinked the rest of the light out of her eyes. She had trouble processing everything that happened as the waves of memories that were hours long just flashed through her eyes in a span of minutes. It felt so... she couldn't...

But goddamn do they make those memories as realistic as heck!

Miu shouldn't believe... it was useless to believe... the Lights were lies for God's sake!

So, why couldn't she help feel that... despair just like she did there? Why was she feeling it was hopeless to escape? Why did Miu have the urge... the urge to kill?

Kokichi Ouma. Angie Yonaga. Himiko Yumeno.

Is that why she tried to kill Kokichi? Because he was subconsciously at the top of her list?

... No, that wasn't the reason. Forget it!

But... Miu was looking at Himiko. The bitch who sold them out, who was in despair, who could possibly target her because-

No way... that didn't happen! Right? Right, there's no way-

'But it's only you, shota and that big dick that know the Flashback Lights are false, remember?' Miu suddenly thought, and she cussed out her brain being a smartass on her but unfortunately it was true.

'So... so...' Miu thought, 'Just like that maid and that masked boy? Does that mean...?'

Miu's eyes scanned toward the people, her eyes narrowing toward Himiko. Could it be possible, should she...

But then, she felt a pair of eyes burning through her, a familiar feeling that she had ignored last time during their last Light with the meteorites in fear of death and this killing game, but this time, Miu didn't ignore the feeling. And she looked...

Into Kokichi's eyes, which narrowed toward her in something of disgust before it widened up childishly. Miu saw Kokichi shook his head imperceptibly as he simply gave an... actual sincere smile as he mouthed, 'It's OK'. That shook Miu's fear away as she remembered.

Miu might be targeted, just like how she felt last time, but... this time, someone had her back. Or maybe... all this time, someone had her back, and she never realized until of late...

And she remembered... herself, Kokichi and Gonta, they were the Killing Game Busters. They will overcome this. She will. She will not make the same mistake again.

***

Kokichi wondered what the bear, nah... chicken until he removed the feathers and the like and that might take a long time yet, planned this time around, as he fiddled around with his own Flashback Light.

But he can't wait to get it over with, as he egged on the rest.

"Nyeh, let's just get this over with," Himiko said, "Why are we doing this together and not when we first found the Flashback Lights...?"

"We already discussed this, Yumeno! So, that we will be there for each other when the motive is done and over with. We need to be together so no one would be alone doing any stupid decisions over this!" Kaito declared.

Kokichi wanted to scoff. They would try, their little cooperation, but it would never work... Because every time, someone would fall for the motive. Something would compel that person to murder for any stupid reason.

Like in every murder game, right? The game theory of it. Kokichi looked at the Flashback Light, and thought, 'What lie is it this time?'

And then he turned it on.

Flash

Kokichi Ouma, in an unfamiliar black uniform, was running, having taken the streets... like he usually done in the past, going back to it again. He was running away. The world was messed up, but it had become even more messed up.

After all... the meteorites and that stupid cult, the despair that festered throughout rebirthed the Remnants of Despair... the Tragedy years ago reawakening... and the hope in the Gofer Project...

The clash of hope and despair... that was never worth it... the battle after the dastardly meteorites that are just pulling even more innocent people into the crossfire... not leaving them in any peace...

And it involved him, among 15 more others. A reawakening that he wanted no part of, like any normal person who knew the consequences of such a project, where things were getting worse, where those stupid leaders could have thought of a better way to deal with this...

But no! Instead, they depend on freaking teenagers! What do they expect of 16 freaking teenagers?! And... who really wants... that? Which led to the Ultimate Hunt, a funeral made so to avoid the crazies.

But useless, all so useless!

Before he knew it, Kokichi unwittingly led himself to a dead end. Turning around, he gasped at who he saw, and was in defensive mode.

"No, not any closer. Don't you dare come any closer or face the wrath of my organization!" Kokichi cried.

He ended up in a broken alleyway, glaring, and if he had to admit it cowering a little, at a robot, a robot he was familiar with.

"Ouma-kun... you can't run from this," the robot, or most known as K1-B0 immediately said.

Kokichi instantly took steps back. On any other normal day, he wouldn't be scared of Kiibo, the robot that always helped, easy to tease and always friendly. But this was different.

Because it had to do with them.

"Why can't you just leave us alone?!" Kokichi cried out.

"Ouma-kun, please be reasonable," Kiibo said.

Kiibo was stepping forward toward Kokichi, and Kokichi was backing away from him.

'What reasonable when you are expecting too much from us? And also...'

Kokichi was not an idiot. The people of the Gofer Project thought that they have all this rounded up nicely, but they forget about the cult, let alone underestimated their power. And that Kokichi knew... what was done.

"I am being reasonable, " Kokichi stressed, "The Gofer Project is meant to fail."

And he meant it. Because he knew. Which was the reason why he escaped with a few others, even after what the Gofer Project did for them, with their 'deaths' from the Ultimate Hunt business. But even then, the actions thus far...

Kiibo frowned, stepping one more step forward, as Kokichi stepped one back but his back was now at a fucking wall. He cowered a little, he didn't want-

"The Gofer Project is not going to fail. It would save all of us. It would help us defeat the meteorites. That's what the world wants, right? Shouldn't you be proud of that, Ouma-kun?" Kiibo asked, gently, coaxingly, but Kokichi was not fooled.

"What's there to be proud of when people are dying, this battle destroying innocent lives worse than those damn meteorites do? What's to be proud of going with the project and leaving all our family and friends?!"

'And what's to be proud of knowing that going there is my own destruction anyway?' Kokichi thought but did not say out loud.

As said before, Kokichi Ouma was not a stupid person, so of course he won't say it or they will know. And he wanted no part in it. The attack coming from despair... he wanted not to be there, because he knew... what the Gofer Project did not... and what the cult has already slowly accomplished...

He wasn't going down without a fight. Kokichi relaxed the tension in his arms, he breathed out a sigh to release all the tension in himself and finally gave Kiibo an unbothered smile as he finally gave his last quip, "And for all those reasons above, of course, I'm not going to this Project. Choose people who are willing to go there, but I'm not one of them. See ya!"

And in swift movement, Kokichi was climbing up the wall with its many cracks up to the roof, his only escape... Parkour.

"Ouma-kun, wai-" Kiibo shouted, but he somehow interrupted himself. Kokichi had no time to pay attention to that, but that somehow increased his panic.

So he climb faster, where he felt a slight wind from the roof before he immediately ran, jumping from roof to roof, a certain nostalgia felt... just like when...

'But those days are over now... and all because...'

Kokichi grunted out in distaste and a bit of tiredness as he looked around to see no robots. It was stupid, doing that, but there was also just no way out with that damn robot cornering him. At least, an open space...

Climbing down, this time using the front of the building to just get back to the open street, no one even giving a damn anymore about a wayward boy, Kokichi can finally give a sigh of relief as he thought he would live another day.

Or not.

"Nice try."

Kokichi was suddenly pulled backwards into another alleyway before being spun around... to meet Kiibo.

Except it wasn't really Kiibo this time around. His eyes were glowing bright blue. A canon was aimed at Kokichi. A different voice, out of static, talked to him.

"You will be going to the Gofer Project," Kiibo? said.

"Uh huh, Kii-boy, or should I say one of the cult's lackeys?" Kokichi asked, outside unbothered as he laced his arms at the back of his head and inside a pit of dread at what's about to inevitably to come.

'I don't want this.'

The curves of Kiibo's? mouth went upward but Kokichi could not feel any emotion behind it as he did with the real Kiibo.

"So you know. But that won't change anything," Kiibo? said.

"Of course I know. Only brainless idiots would not know what was going on behind the scenes! And that bunch of Gofer people along with my classmates? Idiots the whole lot of them! Good thing I ran away before their idiocy could rub off me!

"You are really smart, aren't you, Ouma-kun? Just like our beloved Enoshima-sama..." Kiibo? said reverently.

Enoshima. Junko Enoshima. The person the cult follows, even post-mortem, and uses whatever Junko did in her rein for their own purposes.

He knew what was coming next. Ever since Kokichi had an inkling that the cult... despair entered the Gofer Project and with 16 students, he knew it would be too good to be true to pass that opportunity up.

"Are you slowly trying to work your way into asking me as the mastermind? Is that it?" Kokichi asked.

"Of course! Who better to be the mastermind than someone who shares quite a few similarities with Junko Enoshima... and imagine! The lovely despair in your eyes when that happens! It would be too good an opportunity to pass up!"

'For you,' Kokichi bitterly thought, but did not say.

"Kiibo-kun did try to be reasonable, but you did not follow. So, guess I had to come out. After all... we need all the players for our own Project, you know? And it will be so sad if one dropped out so soon. You understand that, right, Kokichi Ouma?"

"Tsk, acting like you understand me and all that shit," Kokichi said with distaste.

"Of course we do," Kiibo? said, and with disgust, he can hear a loving tone within. Go to hell!

"After all, for our Project to come to fruition, we need to know about all of you, and you, my friend, are simply ripe with potential into joining us and despairing together... and you don't even let that hopeful Gofer Project step on you. It shows promise and after all... you could actually benefit going to our side. You no longer have to run away, come with us!"

Kiibo? extended his hand, but Kokichi simply leered. Ever since the Gofer Project and the cult, ever since his time at Hope's Peak, ever since DICE even...

"No," Kokichi said shortly.

He was his own man and he followed his own rules, not others, not even the world's.

"I see... but you would still make a good contestant all the same. We have many more people to choose anyway, and if not... well, there's always him, you know?" Kiibo? said pointing to the robot himself.

"Now time to go to sleep~"

Before he knew it, he was hit by the canon himself as he slowly blacked out but he could still see... and hear...

The short bzzt of light, Kiibo coming back to himself... words...

"... my inner voice was right!... the Gofer Project... Ouma-kun will understand..."

Dangerous, Kiibo was dangerous... and there... was no... escape...

'I don't want this.'

'Then what will I do to escape it?'

And as if taunting him, he heard those damning final words before fully blacking out...

"And anyone stopping us... will only be met with doom..." that voice said.

But that was enough challenge for Kokichi. It just meant that he will do anything... anything to escape.

Flash

'Wow, they are really getting desperate, aren't they?' Kokichi thought, amused.

'One last Light...' Kokichi remembered telling Shuichi after the Light with the meteorites, which was the very last they needed to get a full story. Kokichi was half right.

The Light connected the Ultimate Hunt, their fake funerals, the meteorites, the Gofer Project and the cult that cried, 'Mankind deserves damnation!' and even the newly discovered evidence of past killing games.

The Light even gave off it's little warning. As Kokichi thought, desperate. Very, very desperate.

It only fueled him even more to do what he's doing and truly end the game before the mastermind's eyes. Mwahahaha!

However, the Light left blank exactly what the Gofer Project is supposed to be, how exactly the meteorites would be stopped... the works, and a few more questions in the mix.

Where was he standing in all this? What exactly happened to the world? What happened to DICE?

And Kiibo...

How was he tampered? What did the cult do to him? And his inner voice?

Of course, Kokichi didn't exactly believe in the Flashback Light. What can be believed must be on solid foundation, where other possibilities are cut down to be left alone with that just one truth and where no lie can make him believe otherwise.

And frankly, the light was far from solid.

But...

He always thought there was something up with Kiibo. The fact that the Flashback Light even mentioned his 'inner voice.'

It certainly gives food for thought.

Kokichi spared one glance towards Kiibo, remembering how he first thought it was weird there was a robot in the killing game.

How he was easily manipulated by Angie during the Student Council era.

How he had a thing called his 'inner voice' that guides him to right decisions.

The possibility of Kiibo being used in this killing game... well, it was quite high.

And 'them', whoever they are, could very well mean the people running the killing game, and Kiibo was already tampered to begin with.

That could mean he was very dangerous, and Kokichi was right to suspect him, even though he wasn't the mastermind...

Hmm... certainly food for thought.

But is it true?

He looked at the others, saw once again that Miu was shaken up and gave her silent encouragement, saw Gonta at a loss and gave him silent resolution.

Kokichi saw himself in doubt and questioning and gave himself determination.

That he would dissect the truth and lies of this whole world, and he will know everything...

And that this world will be his for the taking, where he can crush it in the goal to escape...

***

Gonta... didn't like this.

"What are we waiting for? Let's turn these babies on, unless you guys want to go boom boom," Kokichi said.

But there's that.

"Nyeh, let's just get this over with," Himiko said, "Why are we doing this together and not when we first found the Flashback Lights...?"

"We already discussed this, Yumeno! So, that we will be there for each other when the motive is done and over with. We need to be together so no one would be alone doing any stupid decisions over this!" Kaito declared.

Gonta thought that was actually very smart, as he remembered what one Flashback Light almost made him do...

He can't help but hope for the best...

As he was ready to turn on the Flashback Light...

He briefly remembered about what a Flashback Light made him remember and how untrue it was...

'It's the same thing. The Flashback Lights only shows lies.'

And then, he turned it on.

Flash

"Ugh," Gonta said. He was different, in a black, buttoned up school uniform. And he was facing off with someone.

Where they were was actually a broken down apartment, with crashed dishes, peeled off wallpapers and a chipped ceiling that might fall off at that moment.

Actually, it has always been like that, even before the fight. That's how all everything was when the meteorites struck, the cult formed and the Gofer Project was done.

The Gofer Project... brief flashes of confusion, fear, plans... before he heard that person talking.

"You are strong as you look," that person quipped and Gonta immediately knew that it was Maki Harukawa.

"That good thing to Gonta. So Gonta can protect people... Gonta don't want Harukawa-san to hurt anyone..." Gonta said.

"I'm not. I just came here to fetch you. You know we need you, but you ran away," Maki argued.

"Gonta... Gonta know that. But all Gonta want..." Gonta bit his lip, "...is to stay with them, and protect them from outside world."

No matter what the Gofer Project done, no matter how good, he politely refused to play a part. Gonta knows... it's for the good of this world, but...

His family, his friends... what will happen to them?

It was a while later that he found out, and when he did...

Gonta was sorry, but he simply wanted no part of it.

Instead, he left... met up with his family and friends, tried his best to keep them in a safe location with the help of others, and ever since... trying to evade the Gofer Project and the cult alike by moving from place to place, occasionally visiting to make sure daily needs of his family and friends were met, but otherwise just moved from place to place, living in abandoned buildings, trying to help everyone as much as possible such is the soul of this kind gentleman.

And then, in this apartment, he was suddenly attacked by Maki and his nomadic life might be coming to an end. In the worst way possible.

"But you have to take responsibility, like we all did," Maki said, "You cannot run away from this."

"Gonta knows... but then why some others also leave?" Gonta asked, "Are they OK?"

Gonta wasn't the only one out of the 16 of them who left. There were some others, those people that rejected the Gofer Project, did their own thing and helped Gonta from time to time. Because the Gofer Project... some left same for Gonta's reasons, others for other reasons incomprehensible.

Nevertheless, the Project didn't take that kindly. Hence...

"We are still finding the rest, so I don't know," Maki said, "But when we found you here, they decided to dispatch me here. After all, I might be the only one who can take you by force if you didn't comply."

She said it coolly and unbothered with absolutely no malice, but Gonta unconsciously clenched his fists before unclenching them and taking a deep breath.

"Harukawa-san doesn't have to do this. Gonta doesn't want this," Gonta said.

'Gonta doesn't want to leave.'

It was that simple for someone like Gonta, the gentle giant, who simply wanted to live peacefully with his family and his many friends. But the meteorites changed everything. The cults, the Gofer Project and the chaos to follow, the hope and despair... they changed everything, but he still didn't want to leave. He wanted to do everything he can here, and that's why he won't leave for the Gofer Project.

Now, he was fighting Maki because of this...

And he hated it, with all his heart. Gonta Gokuhara hated it.

But...

"You have to come back. The Gofer Project needs you," Maki said, a shift in her stance, a fighting stance.

"But not like this," Gonta stressed, "Gonta doesn't want this."

"I see. Too bad," Maki said, and with a flash, Maki was right in front of him.

Maki struck left aiming for that side of the neck but missed as Gonta quickly dodged, and Gonta used the opportunity to sock Maki in a stomach, but although she was pushed back, she bit her tongue to not lose consciousness and once again charged the gentle giant.

For a pacifist like Gonta against Maki, a well trained assassin, a lot of people would have said that Maki would have easily beaten Gonta, but people would be dead wrong about that. Not only his physical abilities, but something else, has been honed in all those years at the forest, as he was raised by nature.

Nature, devoid of civilization, would not teach Gonta anything of manipulation, cruelty, tactics and weaknesses that Maki has long since learned and helped in her path as an assassin, but nature, which raised animals, taught one thing that helped survival throughout his 10 years.

Instincts. And with those instincts, which he inexplicably trusted, was the reason that he was able to keep up with a fight for this long. Why he was able to protect his friends and family from the chaos to be after the meteorites.

But still... Gonta hated this.

Gonta received a roundhouse kick by Maki to the neck when he spaced out a bit before trying to keep up his consciousness. He did not want to lose. Because it meant that he would leave his family and friends.

Gonta did not want that.

Maki huffed in frustration, mostly for the giant not to be taken down yet, and was preparing her next move.

"Please, Harukawa-san! Gonta just want to protect his family and friends. And the Gofer Project just won't allow Gonta to do that. So, just let Gonta be!" Gonta pleaded. He always had been pleading, but Maki remained indifferent.

"But you cannot save everyone," Maki said, "That is the inescapable truth of the world."

It was cold, it was cruel, it was heartless. It was something that Gonta had no chance of understanding. Never will understand, but Maki continued on.

"Someone will be hurt one day, and nothing can be done about it. Someone will leave you one day, and nothing can be done about it. Someone will die one day, and nothing can be done about it."

"Eventually, everyone will die. The end of the world is near. You know that, I know that. The Gofer Project is made because of that, and you are one of the people that the Project needs," Maki stressed.

Maki's fighting stance softened a little as she finally said, "You cannot save everyone... you cannot protect everyone. Nothing can be done about it, but the least you can do... now, after everything, is to come back with us... and at least save some of this world with us, for the greater good. This is your last chance to come quietly."

Gonta frowned. Gonta didn't understand, because he didn't want to. For Gonta, it was a simple all or nothing. What about the greater good? Why is it impossible to save everything?

"Gonta want to save everyone," Gonta said softly, a frown on his face.

"You will learn... that is impossible. Save yourself, and save a few... for the greater good," Maki said softly.

"No... Gonta don't believe that. Gonta don't want to believe that!" Gonta cried.

Everyone will be saved! The world will not end! That was impossible!

This time, without warning, Maki ran, one moment feet away from Gonta, another right at his face. He moved away in shock, stumbled... slipped.

And Maki took that opportunity as she stabbed him with something that made him black out. The last words he heard were:

"You will understand." And then, there was nothing.

But Gonta didn't... will never understand. He was angry at Maki for doing this to him, for rejecting his wishes, but he did not hate Maki for it. He understood about the will of the Gofer Project, but he was angry about it.

So, Gonta didn't understand, as he woke up and was welcomed back into the Gofer Project, locked under key like some of the more wayward participants, sent them off, telling them it was for the greater good, even proceeding to 'persuading' them that they needed to do this.

In the end, Gonta followed along with the Gofer Project, the fight drained out after too long, but he was not swayed although he kept it to himself. Yet questions nagged him.

Were his family and friends... alright?

Was the world... alright?

When the Gofer Project was done, Gonta received the answer.

In the most painful way possible.

"Upupupu," that black and white bear, Monokuma laughed, where many of the other students have fallen and Gonta was the only one left standing despite his mettle to protect the others.

As all the participants accepted their fate, and finally underwent the project, he came.

And everyone knew what that means...

"It's hopeless. The game will begin. Just blame the Gofer Project and their lackeys, they were asking for this, you know?" Monokuma said casually, holding a simple flashlight but Gonta was very wary of it already, having caused all of their classmates to have fallen...

"Why... why Monokuma here?" Gonta asked.

"For despair of course! Really, you guys are so hopeless, with this stupid Project when your family and friends are dying. When the world is ending! In the end, you can do nothing right, huh? How truly despairing," Monokuma said with a laugh.

"Gonta... Gonta and the others will stop you!" Gonta declared even after hearing what that bear said. What he said... Gonta... didn't want to believe. He didn't, so he put it to the side and prioritized in protecting the friends he had now, yet...

'Gonta didn't want to leave.'

That was what he wanted, but instead Maki captured him... and this happened.

'So how can Gonta go back?'

"Upupupu. I see that stupid flicker of hope in your eyes. Yeesh, I will be very glad when it's gone. You will learn this the hard way: You cannot save everyone. And you never will. Especially with some dangerous individuals around you..." Monokuma said, nearly cryptically as he prepared the flashlight.

Gonta was in deep thought, as the way Monokuma phrased it and was looking at a certain girl... A dangerous individual... does that mean...?

If she hadn't captured him... if he truly got out of the clutches of the Gofer Project...

And then maybe, his friends and family and the world... Gonta... Gonta wanted to go back. He needed to know.

No matter what it takes.

"I will enjoy... the despair that will seep out of you all, because... there is no escape."

Flash

Gonta gasped, everything rushing into his head, and he... everything...

His friends, his family... everyone. Were they alright? Were they safe?

And the end of the world... the end of the world. Why was it in this Flashback Light too? To be mentioned once again. It's like... that was haunting him, never to be forgotten. Gonta shuddered.

Gonta looked at everyone, who were reeling in their own memories and when Gonta's eyes met Maki's form... a sensation of anger and possibly, fear, was felt.

Before this, Gonta had never really felt these kind of emotions towards Maki. He was certainly wary of the Ultimate Assassin. Worried what she might do to the rest, but it wasn't like he was in anyway hostile to her.

Now... for some reason... his head was whispering, 'No matter what it takes.'

That he saw Maki... the way she strangled Kokichi... twice. Their fight... her callous and cold words to him, the finishing touch. The last words: that he will understand.

But look at where they are now.

'But Gonta... don't want to kill Harukawa-san.'

Certainly he felt anger toward Maki, but it was the same with Kokichi, when he was angry at the manipulation with both the Insect Meet and Greet and the VR world. That did not mean he was hostile to Kokichi, so he wasn't hostile to Maki.

So, in the end, unlike the last Flashback Light, Gonta... did not feel the despair to kill.

Instead, he just felt... lost.

Gonta no longer believed the Flashback Light, even though his memories were releasing a lot of despair and anger toward this killing game, despair that he was starting to believe there was no escape and anger that he can't leave this place, the fate of his friends, family and even the world is unknown.

He wanted to save everyone. Maki and Monokuma said that was impossible.

But... but...

Suddenly, Gonta felt a pair of eyes toward him and noted that it was Kokichi's. There was something... reassuring there, a form of encouragement.

A raging passion, a resolution. Even in the gestures he was giving Gonta, with his thumbs up, a little nod and a big wattage smile.

Even though Gonta was unsure exactly what Kokichi was conveying, he still felt reassurance radiating from Kokichi.

There was no escape. His family, friends and the world are doomed. That is a lie. He had to remember that.

Because as a member of the KGB, he was working on an escape. His friends are right here. The world couldn't be doomed because his friends said so.

Gonta wanted to leave no matter what. That's also a lie.

He wanted to leave... but he did not want to kill for it. Because... he was better than that.

And there was no way that he would let a lying Flashback Light tell him otherwise.

And with that, Gonta felt less lost, now standing up toward this strange motive and overcoming all the negativity that was trying to sway him down the wrong road.

But he would not be sway... because Gonta, and also Kokichi and Miu, they knew better.

And they were all going to leave this place. In their own terms.

Chapter Text

"What the hell was that?!" Kaito exclaimed.

'What a perfect way to sum up the motives,' Miu thought.

Surprisingly enough, everyone was silent before someone broke it.

And by someone surprising indeed.

"Aren't we going to share the motive? After all, isn't that the reason why we agreed to use them here together and so that we can overcome them?" Kiibo asked.

That seemed to snap everyone out of their reverie, the overwhelming emotion of this very brand new motive, because... it was a little different from the other motives they had so far.

Because... to Miu, it was similar to the time motive. One they couldn't ignore, one although didn't threaten the death of everyone yet... the feeling, someone will die, because the Flashback Light gave their own time limits to each person.

That time limit of a long fused bomb, to death. Where one will explode and turn one to a blackened.

She knew... because if she didn't know the Flashback Lights were lies in the first place, Miu would probably have been suckered into blackened thoughts.

Scratch that. She had blackened thoughts if not for Kokichi just staring the crap out of her making her remember what would happen if she did kill.

No more repeats, thank you.

"And why would we want to do that?" Maki asked, her voice cold cut and leaving no room for objection.

"Harukawa-san?" Kiibo asked, surprised as well as many others. Miu narrowed her eyes at Maki. It was suspicious... saying that, because that means you have something to hide.

Could it be...?

"I don't want to share anything. It would be pointless," Maki said dismissively.

"Pointless, huh, Harukawa-chan?" Kokichi chimed in, and everyone's attention was immediately towards him, where a palpable dread awaited.

That's no surprise because every time he opens his mouth, it would lead to an unsettling result. And even when Miu and Gonta knew better of him, one thing will never change: that he's a certified asshole.

"What did you say?" Maki asked, her glare... sharpening at Kokichi, so much that Miu felt like she was killed 10 times and that glare wasn't even directed at her, with others as Miu could see even shuddering, but Kokichi remained completely unfazed, just smiling languidly as he put his finger on his chin.

What a trooper.

"Nishishi. So I no longer have the right to speak my mind anymore? How terrible," Kokichi sniffled to Maki'a continued glare.

"What are you up to this time?" Maki asked, very bluntly and her eyes completely narrowed down to Kokichi in comparison to Kokichi's wide innocent eyes to her question.

A flash of something in his eyes and he smiled, "Would you like to know, Harukawa-chan?"

Miu could see the twitch of Maki's hands at that answer. The tension was too palpable that it was a relief someone finally cut it.

"Umm... umm... putting that aside," Shuichi said quickly, "I guess this time our Flashback Light finally connected the rest of our memories, right?"

Everyone quickly answered with nods as remarks were made.

"We are the participants of the Gofer Project which were against the cult."

"So the cult formed the Ultimate Hunt and that's why we are hunted down, to prevent the Gofer Project."

"The funeral was held because we wanted the Hunt off our scent and continue the Gofer Project."

That was what everyone knew. Or at least what the bear wanted them to. But it ties with the other Flashback Lights. Due to the mastermind needing to be consistent, Miu guessed.

"Nyeh... what was it about that hope and despair? And previous killing games?"

"Yeah, I plainly don't understand it either. I remember being in Hope's Peak with all of you, but I have never really heard of it until I remembered..."

"Is there an explanation for such a memory to be connected to us, considering our situation?"

Himiko, Tsumugi and Kiibo were absent when the rest found out about Hope's Peak via that book in Kokichi's Lab. So Shuichi explained everything to them.

The three nodded as Kiibo said:

"So I see. This really isn't the first killing game. And it makes sense the Remnants of Despair would be connected to the cult, making us despair even more in this situation..."

"But... what was the Gofer Project about?" Himiko asked, and everyone turned to her.

She flushed at being in the spotlight, "I... I mean, well... we know the Gofer Project was to save the world, but what did we do in the Gofer Project? Why were we needed there?"

Shuichi said, "That was something that the Flashback Light didn't tell us."

Kiibo continued, "So, we don't have all our memories yet."

Kaito encouraged, "I'm sure we will have our memories back soon. At least, we have more to go on with."

Everyone nodded at that, and it seemed like there would be no discussion going on except...

"A disappointment once again," Kokichi's quiet voice floated within the quiet atmosphere shattering the order built inside this room, which made Kaito retaliate, "What did you say, you little shit?"

Kokichi, unafraid to speak his mind, said, "Guess idiots need repeating before anything can go through that thick skull of yours. I said you guys are a disappointment!"

"What the fuck?" Miu blurted out. She had absolutely no idea where he was going with this, even if it had something to do with being an asshole.

"What are you going on about this time?" Kaito asked, and everyone was looking at him, who smiled widely at the attention.

"Because you guys can't be dumb to forget the most important part, right?" Kokichi pouted.

"Stop beating around the bush and just tell us," Kaito demanded.

"Wait, Momota, we don't need to listen-" Maki started, but Kokichi happily interrupted her.

"Okie dokie," Kokichi said, "You guys have obviously forgotten that the Flashback Lights are motives and you are running away!"

"Running away?" Gonta asked.

"Otherwise why wouldn't you mention the best part of the Flashback Light?" Kokichi asked.

"Best part?" Tsumugi asked.

Kokichi's face immediately darkened, as he said, "The part where the Lights give you the urge to kill certain someones!"

Everyone jolted, and once again, looked at each other warily as Kokichi smiled and narrowed their eyes at each of them, "Nishishi. Hit the nail in the head, did I?"

"Bullshit! Just because the bear gave us motives doesn't mean we will follow them! Right, guys?" Kaito asked, and looked at the others who nodded at Kaito's words.

Although Miu was among them, she didn't trust those affirmations, and neither did Kokichi whose smile became so empty as he finally said, "If that's how you want to be even after everything, then fine. I'm tired of hanging out with a bunch of idiots anyway. So, I'll be off now. Sayonara!"

"Wai-" Kiibo said, but Kokichi was already out of the door, looking concerned.

"Don't worry about Ouma-kun," Shuichi said gently, "He always just does his own thing, you know?"

"Just ignore the little shit and get on with our lives," Maki said.

"Hey, it's almost lunch. Let's just get something to eat," Tsumugi said.

And they did, until they dispersed, leaving Gonta with a tray of food and Miu asking about it.

"For Ouma-kun. Don't want him to be hungry," Gonta said.

"But he could be anywhere," Miu said.

Gonta simply shrugged as he made his way out. Miu, wanting to meet Kokichi anyway, followed.

Because what was his deal with those motives? Then again, Miu was also worried about her situation. Targeting people... what if someone wanted to target her? Who was it? What can she do?

Miu reigned those thoughts in. She didn't want to jump to any conclusions that will potentially dig her into deep shit. Kokichi was an asshole, but he was a smart asshole. And the way he looked at her when she panicked over her motives...

It's funny... that Miu was now looking for the most mean spirited person for reassurance.

They both soon reached the door and Gonta knocked, but no one answered.

"Guess Ouma-kun not in here," Gonta said, but Miu shook her head as she tried to open the door but it was really locked.

She knocked again and said, "Oi, it's me and Gonta over there. Let us in."

No response. Miu frowned, wondering whether the dude was just trolling and was about to put her ear to the door to affirm his presence behind it when-

"What did you think you are doing, you peeping Tom?" Kokichi asked.

"Gaah! Where did you come from?" Miu shouted in shock at Kokichi's sudden appearance, one who was looking at them innocently as he was holding a bunch of files from who knows where.

"Behind you. Anyway, what are you- oh, food... you really are concerned for me, huh? As expected of my loyal subordinates," Kokichi said.

"As if we are your fucking subordinates. Just because you are the so called supreme leader does not make you boss," Miu huffed.

"Booring,"Kokichi responded, "Then, what brings you to my humble abode?"

"Gonta wanted to bring meal to Ouma-kun so he not hungry," Gonta said, as he held a tray of food, "And Gonta want to continue what we are doing anyway."

"Yeah," Miu nodded, "After all... there's the mastermind... and the motive."

The motive still unsettled her. They needed a way to deal with it, and knowing the others... knowing the mastermind's intentions with both Miu and Kokichi, well...

Kokichi looked at them blankly before he sighed and said, "Well, come on in. Even a leader can't do everything by himself."

And once again, they were in his messy room, with Kokichi placing the files on his table before rounding on them, getting the tray and eating with relish.

Miu was the first one to speak:

"What do we do with the motives?" Miu asked.

"Gonta want to believe that everyone won't kill because of motives," Gonta frowned at Miu's statement, "But Gonta understand that motives sometime can make someone kill, and Gonta don't want that. So what do we do?"

As both looked at Kokichi, he sighed, "What am I? Your brain? Why are you coming to me for this anyway?"

"Haah? Did we say anything about relying on you? I just want to hear your take on this and add with my ideas and we will certainly crush the damn motives and live to see another day!" Miu boasted.

She was a gorgeous girl genius above others, but that doesn't mean she won't get some brainstorming with Kokichi where they can help each other not to die. She remembered what Kokichi said of second chances. And she can become better. She can prove herself.

She can finally be useful. Finally be worth something. To herself and to others.

"Gonta not smart. But Gonta will try to help Ouma-kun and Iruma-san. And Gonta think a plan best way to go with this, and Gonta try his best to carry it out, as long as everyone safe."

That was so Gonta, but it was something that Miu didn't mind. It was actually nice to have someone like that here, and nice for someone like that to help them.

Kokichi looked at the both of them blankly before he started out.

"Figuring out the motives. It's pretty much established this is a target motive considering everyone's reactions. Anyway, I got Kii-boy. Who did you guys get?"

'He's starting out like that?' Miu thought before saying aloud, "And that's not a lie?"

Kokichi shrugged, "I'm a liar, but I'm a leader for a reason and leaders rarely beat around the bush with their fellow subordinates, or is it that you want me to?"

"Nope. Better than the shit you spew out of your mouth," Miu said with a grin, "By the way, got the magic loli. Dunno why, except maybe she's a damn easy target?"

Gonta frowned, "Gonta don't like you say it like that, but Gonta got Harukawa-san."

"Harukawa-chan?" Kokichi asked, "Interesting."

Kokichi went to the whiteboard, and then rustling through a box, got his own picture. Arranging the pictures and placing them next to each other...

With Gonta to Maki. Kokichi to Kiibo. Miu to Himiko. The rest were in question mark. Tsumugi's was left out of this. Miu could see why not. What insane person would ask someone to target themselves anyway?

Even the mastermind cannot be that insane, right? ...Right?

"Assuming they are one to one, then it's easy to see how this plays out. But more likely... it's not," Kokichi said.

"Why do you think that?" Miu asked.

But Kokichi just smiled and said, "Who knows?"

How infuriating.

"So, what can we do about them?" Miu asked. At least give them that.

"And why should I?" Kokichi asked, smiling broadly.

"So you told us about the mastermind. You let us go to the mastermind's lair together. You told us about the case framing. But you won't tell us your take on the motives?" Miu rebutted. She was trying to get use to Kokichi's behaviour and try to squeeze something out of him.

"Touche," Kokichi said, shaking his head in amusement, as he said, "As you all know, the motive came in after the fact that the last one failed. It is also known there are two people the mastermind want very dead..."

It worked. She got something out of him.

Miu gulped. Unfortunately that was true. Miu and Kokichi... why the hell were they wanted dead beats Miu but the fact was that they were targeted, so Kokichi may not be wrong that they could very well be the next victims if the mastermind so pleased, if the motives... somehow targeted them. So...

"So what do we do about it?" Gonta asked.

"Well, using that to our advantage, we can..."

Kokichi explained his plan, so far, to counteract the motives. Mostly, it involved a few of Miu's inventions, a few items and some of their own specialties, but it could very well protect them from the motives. Hopefully.

It was an OK idea, but Gonta asked:

"And what about others? How do we protect them from motive?"

Kokichi tilted his head, "Hopefully we don't need to."

"Huh? Why's that?" Gonta asked.

"In any case, for someone to plan a murder, it would take them days at least to come up with a competent one if the motive is working its magic, so we probably won't have to worry about something terrible happening until then. You know what I mean, right, Iruma-chan?"

Miu flinched. He always had to poke at that topic. He really is an asshole.

But Miu knew Kokichi to be true because murder in this stupid killing game does not happen overnight, if no one wanted to get caught. Which was the reason why it took Miu days to work hard at that VR but she wanted to stop thinking that.

"So what do we do now?" Gonta asked.

"Well, duh. We explore some more. I was already finished with Momota-chan's Lab when I saw you guys heading to the dorm rooms with a tray of food. So I followed you guys and here we are," Kokichi said.

"And are you going to tell what you found out?" Miu asked, demanding answers. The more in the dark Miu was, the less likely it was for Miu to form a competent plan.

"Nothing much," Kokichi shook his head, "The files didn't show much. They mentioned the Gofer Project, but the important stuff is all redacted."

"Bullshit," Miu said, assuming that Kokichi's lying, and checked the files herself, but apparently, it was true, the whole thing redacted. Then... why did he bother to bring it here with him? Maybe he's just trolling... or he did see something useful that someone else could not?

"Is there really nothing about the Gofer Project?" Gonta asked, and Miu shook her head. Kokichi teared up.

"You... you guys really didn't believe me. How could you... when we are supposed to be the Killing Game Busters, and trust each other?"

"Gonta... Gonta sorry," Gonta quickly said to Kokichi's accusation, "It's just that... Ouma-kun always lies, and it's... better to double check."

"Well, duh. Don't think we are blind that you are still not hiding something from us. 'Them', the past killing games. You might have told us about the mastermind and the framing, but there's so much you didn't tell us, right?"

The blank face was there again. Miu was hitting the nail in the head again.

Miu drilled her eyes into Kokichi's, but she wasn't surprised. He was a liar, he was very secretive and he was completely untrustworthy.

Yes, she knew this and yes, she still let the Killing Game Busters happened.

Because Miu had her own plans centering the Killing Game Busters other than what the group might or might not pull off. After all, for a plan, they might depend on Kokichi.

But Miu still didn't trust Kokichi on that. So as she gathered information, she will make her own plan if she didn't agree with the group.

Don't put all your eggs in one basket, yeah?

Which was why she was so determined to gather every bit of information, make a sound plan...

Yes, a sound plan.

If she can...

***

Kokichi had absolutely no idea why this is happening, but that was a lie. He never imagined the invention and sex for brains Miu Iruma to be that perspective. Then again, he wasn't exactly subtle, with the 'them' part and hints strewn around... no, he didn't know why he was doing it.

Sometimes he asked himself why. Why make such mistakes as letting them in like the Killing Game Busters, letting some things slip even when they shouldn't know any more than they should. Why was he letting himself be weak while maintaining his strong mask of a villain towards them nevertheless?

All he had to do was ask those questions, close his eyes and see that ending world, feel it. All he had to see was a snowy forest, a Flashback Light in his hand and a depressed Gonta. All he had to see was a snowy rooftop, Miu with a hammer and toilet paper.

All he had to remember from those events was desperation, despair, defeat and guilt. And all those crushing feelings were enough to make him feel weak, although he showed nothing outside.

But Kokichi, prideful and superior he is, scoffed at such things. That's why he still lied to himself, why he kept going... because he felt it would be an insult to himself and for his goals, for DICE if he didn't. The reason why he showed nothing to Miu and Gonta. Why he kept his secrets such as them, what he actually found at the Ultimate Astronaut's Lab with the papers as a red herring.

Every silent advantage was an advantage well worth used. Yet... his weakness, the weakness he gained ever since the killing game, gotten worse at the end of the world and what he had done, the weakness he covered with his mask of lies.

Such weakness was the reason why Miu, and Gonta although he doesn't say, was on his case right now. He let them in too much, because his weakness wanted him to, done with doing what he was trying and wanted someone else to take over, maybe with Shuichi in another universe if Miu and Gonta actually died.

Because really... Kokichi might be some Ultimate Supreme Leader but only to his organization. If people had plans here to stop the killing game and go through it, he had no reason to stop them. In fact, he would gladly let them do so and hope they succeed.

But after Kaede and Rantaro, plans were somehow out of the question and the killing game went on, so he had to do something. But failure after failure... it was time someone else hold the torch, which he would have passed in to Shuichi in another universe in the most dramatic way possible probably.

However, his superiority rejected that, telling him the dangers of letting others in, betrayal hissing in his ears and that he could still do it... no need to involve them any longer, that the others were such idiots to not have any plans to escape the killing game after Kaede and Rantaro which is try he did so much himself unknown to the others because he will not repeat Rantaro's mistake of declaring such intent to others only to end up dead.

In the end, his superiority and weakness argued until they compromised.

"Maybe there's a reason why I don't tell you everything. In fact, you should be happy that I told you anything at all. I still can't believe that I did," Kokichi said.

Gonta asked, "Can Ouma-kun at least tell reason? Maybe... Gonta can help."

Kokichi inwardly flinched at that. It was nice of Gonta but... he still didn't understand why Gonta was being so nice when he didn't deserve it. Why Miu was still hanging out with him? Why this was happening to him, in the company of two 'comrades' even now, even after everything...?

His weakness loved it without question. His superiority questioned it distrustfully.

It was due to the superiority that he knew Miu might be trying to squeeze out information for her own benefit.

Considering Miu was not the mastermind, and was wanted dead... among the only reason for that was to make her own plan and escape the game herself. Personally he didn't mind if she did that because everyone should do that, except for killing, instead of laying around hoping for some damn miracle, but how that would affect his plans for everyone... it was the right call not to say a lot, just in case.

But Gonta was too much a mystery. How on this goddamn earth can someone be so nice? If Kokichi didn't know any better, he would already assume Gonta was an angel from Heaven sent to Earth. Otherwise nothing made sense.

Of course Kokichi, the evil being he is, hated that and brushed Gonta's concern off. And went stubbornly silent. Miu looked at him for a while, as if thinking and then sighed, as she made her decision.

"Fine," Miu said, "You don't want to tell us, you don't trust us. Fine."

Kokichi's eyes widened at this unexpected flip of conversation. He didn't think Miu would back down like that. It surprised him which piqued Kokichi's interest nonetheless and wanted to see where this was going.

"Huh, Iruma-san?" Gonta asked, surprised.

"I'm not a goddamn idiot. After what all three of us went through together, why should we trust each other? In fact, I was also surprised that you told us shit," Miu admitted.

"But..." Miu said, suddenly in Kokichi's face, "We are still in this together, so let's at least do what we are supposed to. Don't beat around the bush with us Ouma. You might not want to tell us everything but show us what we need to do to escape this game, will you?! Isn't that why the Killing Game Busters are formed?"

Straight to the point. She just wanted information to escape the game. That's what Kokichi surmised easily from her speech. That was probably why Miu was on Kokichi's case. But still she backed down doing it and instead said all that.

Did she give up getting anything from Kokichi? Was she angling for something else?

... How interesting.

"Ouma-kun, Iruma-san," Gonta said slowly after a brief silence from Miu's speech, "Do you two... really not trust each other... not trust Gonta?"

They all looked at each other briefly in the eye. With one look to all the others, they knew the answer to that question.

It would be incredibly stupid if the trio, probably except Gonta, would trust each other at all after the VR fiasco. Which was why Kokichi avoided Miu and Gonta, the latter more out of guilt than distrust.

Miu and Gonta had every right to distrust and avoid Kokichi too. But they didn't. Which made the formation of the new Killing Game Busters pretty much an intriguing mystery that confused Kokichi. The only reason he let it happened, for the opportunity it gave to go to the mastermind's lair without death.

Miu clearly distrusted him but still went along with him, as an information source dangerous as that was. Gonta was just Gonta and Kokichi doesn't understand why after all the things done.

At this point, the Killing Game Busters were an unknown. At this point, it felt like a pointless exercise and he should find a way to break it off. He should...

But his weakness suddenly appeared before him again, whispering:

But that's a lie, isn't it?

... Goddamnit! He hated when his hatred for lies comes back to bite a liar like him.

"Iruma-san? Ouma-kun?" Gonta asked again, looking at them. They never answered his question. Even if it should be obvious. Maybe he didn't want to believe in the obvious.

Someone had to tell him the truth and by the way Miu was looking at Kokichi, seemed it fell to the liar himself. Ironic but understandable.

"Eh... Gonta. You really can't be that dumb, can you?" Kokichi started, "What made you think that we would trust each other after everything that happened? Don't tell me, after everything I did, you actually trust me?"

Kokichi expected Gonta to nod yes and then Kokichi would call him out as an idiot. Surprisingly, Gonta shook his head no, but with an expression wishing he could trust Kokichi.

"Gonta wish to trust Ouma-kun, but Gonta cannot. Gonta still angry at Ouma-kun for what happened, but Ouma-kun still Gonta's friend. And whether Gonta trust or not trust, Gonta still want to be there for Ouma-kun and hope... one day, that Gonta can trust Ouma-kun again. For now, Gonta just want to protect friends, that's all."

"So even trust or no trust, Gonta still want everyone to get along until can trust each other. Gonta hoped one day that Ouma-kun and Iruma-san will trust Gonta one day because Gonta try hard to earn back trust. But for now, Gonta want everyone to put aside difference so we all escape killing game. Please, Ouma-kun, Iruma-san."

Miu and Kokichi were both shocked at the statement especially Kokichi. If anything, Kokichi thought at this point, Gonta simply transcended to Kaito level idiocy, with his believe whatever he wanted to believe.

But somehow unlike Kaito, there was a little less idiocy in Gonta's statement. He said he didn't trust, unlike Kaito who would even trust an assassin without proof. But Gonta simply wanted to protect his friends and hoped that one day those friends will earn his trust.

So in that sense, Gonta transcended even Kaito level idiocy because Gonta wasn't doing Kaito's blind belief. In fact, it almost sounded like he was giving the benefit of doubt before they can earn his belief.

And even with that doubt, Gonta still go about protecting his friends, continuing being the gentleman he was. At the same time hoping that he can earn people's trust that way.

That knocked all expectations out of Kokichi, but Kokichi being the instant answering machine no matter what situation was able to quickly make a response towards Gonta's statement.

"How interesting. That sounds less stupid even coming from you," Kokichi said, now making his decision or forever hold his peace, "So hearing all these statements, I hereby declare that you guys are all idiots and I can't believe I'm helping you."

"Hey!" Miu protested.

"But..." Kokichi let that word out obnoxiously long, "I must also be an idiot because I'm still helping you guys. Just don't compare me for that idiot Momota-chan, OK? We have wasted enough time in the first place, let's go!"

"Wha..." Miu said surprised by Kokichi's sudden change of behaviour, "Then... what are we doing now?" She demanded.

"Isn't it obvious?" Kokichi asked with a smile,"We are going to continue to do what we were supposed to do."

"You mean, exploring...?" Gonta asked and Kokichi nodded. Miu was now crossing her arms as if she had a problem, so Kokichi addressed it.

"What is it, slut?" Kokichi asked sweetly.

"We couldn't have done that in the first place?" Miu blurted out, "After planning to avoid the motives, you couldn't have just gone straight to the point?"

"I did..." Kokichi whined, "But then you just started accusing me of all those things and then started giving me these big stupid speeches."

"That was because you were being difficult," Miu complained.

"Huh? But that's because I don't trust you, like you guys don't trust me. I'm allowed to keep my secrets like you are, aren't I? So why are you giving me grief about it?"

After another brief bout of silence, pay respect to privacy because it's dead as hell, Gonta then spoke up:

"We shouldn't. Gonta sorry about that, but it's just that... Ouma-kun always seemed to know more to get out of killing game. Don't you want to get out of killing game?"

"Or you want to do something else with the killing game?" Miu stressed out.

"What?" Both Kokichi and Gonta turned around, surprised at Miu's question.

OK, who died and gave the powers of Ultimate Detective to the slut? Was he living in some out of whack and cracked universe? Come on! Miu being smarter like this of all things is definitely the product of some weird plot out to get at him.

... Or he knew Miu was that smart but never wanted to admit it because it was now biting him in the ass and he was severely paying for it.

Sometimes... he hates telling the truth to himself. That's why he's a liar.

"What do you mean, Iruma-chan? Are you high on drugs again? I can whack the weed outta you for such nonsense," Kokichi said, because being the prideful supreme leader always on the top, he aims to turn the tables around and Miu's nature as sadistic she portrays it, she's really a masochist who can bow down and forget everything.

It also makes it so easy to divert conversations like this and use her to his bidding. Yes, it's evil, but he continues being the evil Ultimate Supreme Leader. He had no regrets.

The snowy white rooftop flashed before his mind as he reiterated, 'None.'

But that's a lie, isn't it?

Yeah, yeah, Kokichi was such a smartass even to himself.

Back to Miu, she shrunk away from Kokichi and said, "I'm not high and I'm not talking nonsense and you know it!"

"Oh, do I? All I know is that you are a dumb bitch whose kinky inventions will reign you as the best slut in the universe for your dream, but I don't know what that has to do anything, now do I?"

"Wh- Wha..." Miu said, as she was suddenly blushing and enjoying it. What a masochist. A kinky masochist who tries to cover it with weak sadism but a masochist nonetheless. Otherwise it would be weird how turn on she can get from all those stupid insults he threw at her or when people talk down on her in less serious situations.

Of course, Gonta as the pure being he is that all his classmates try to preserve as much as possible and made him avoid Miu and him multiple times, well he was confused again but it seemed he directed his attention to Kokichi.

"Why you always so mean to Iruma-san?" Gonta asked, a bit in worry, a bit in curiosity and a bit in confusion, "Does Ouma-kun... hate her?"

"Me... hate Iruma-chan?" Kokichi asked, tilting his head innocently, "Nah. Iruma-chan is just too much fun to mess around with for me to hate her."

"Then... why so mean?" Gonta asked.

"Because Iruma-chan likes it, duh. So that means I have every right to do whatever I please."

"Gonta doesn't think you should do that," Gonta sighed, "But Gonta curious about what Iruma-san said. What do you plan for this killing game, Ouma-kun?"

Drat. He had to pacify Miu but Gonta too? Then again... Gonta openly admitted that he distrusted Kokichi. So...

"It's nothing bad, I promise. I just want to escape this killing game like you guys. Who doesn't want it? So what do you think I would do exactly?"

"Umm... Uh..." Gonta said, at a loss for words but it seemed that Miu was out of her funk now and said, "You want to end this killing game but how exactly?"

"Hmm... Iruma-chan?" Kokichi asked, and that was a hard tackle right there, in words.

Kokichi made up his mind. He was in a universe where suddenly the people he hung out were suddenly smarter and on his case. After all, he never expected this would happen in a million years.

"Don't play dumb," Miu retorted, "You always seemed like you are up to something. And that something has to do with ending the killing game. I thought that maybe escape and end are one and the same but they are actually two different things."

"Why they two different things?" Gonta asked.

"I didn't notice until the multiple killing games. And then I remembered your damn original plan. It doesn't take a gorgeous girl genius to put two and two together."

Both Gonta and Kokichi were looking at Miu, as if waiting for her to continue but oddly Miu stopped there and Kokichi had to comment on it.

"And what is that two and two together? Or are you just pulling things out from your ass?" Kokichi asked calmly.

"Of course I'm not!" Miu exclaimed.

"Then, explain it to us. Explain what is the difference between escaping and ending. What do you think I'm doing?"

Kokichi's presence suddenly became bigger then life itself as he intimidated Miu. Such a liar himself, he could lie about his very own appearance of a cute kid into a terrifying maniac if he wished, and it worked as Miu backed down afraid and Gonta who watched this was worried.

Because exactly what did she know? Or was she trolling with him? It wasn't like Kokichi forgotten about Miu in the class trials. Once she latches onto something, she will think it correct but without any conclusive proof except it just made the most sense at the time. Jumping to conclusion without viable proof because it was the simplest. Just like Kirumi and Kiyo although ironically she was right in the end.

Kokichi didn't know how exactly Miu reached to that conclusion but without hard proof, he can easily overturn the tables and dissuade Miu from it.

Why was he so determined for them not to really know? They might stop him, as their use only extends so far but the final piece of his plan... what he needed to do if going that far... that was him and him alone.

Like, it's a need to know basis and they don't need to know, that kind of thing.

Meanwhile, Miu was spluttering like crazy but in the end, she said, "Well, it's just obvious because of course you are planning something, aren't you? Something like that damn original plan of yours to end this game, right?"

With what she said, in a very vague manner, Kokichi can guess that she wasn't entirely sure what he planned to do. Good, so it really was classical Miu.

So he had to answer, "And what's wrong with ending the game? Is it wrong?"

Miu narrowed her eyes, "If it's crazy as your first bullshit plan. If you planned to die... if you plan to do something crazy that might risk us all..."

Kokichi knew how to answer this one perfectly:

"All games have risk, Iruma-chan, even this one although you guys won't believe it. And every risk means one step forward to the ending, which I plan to reach. Because that's who I am.

That was his superiority speaking and his weakness faintly agreeing with it, although it preferred that getting there didn't have to be so hard.

Suddenly, Gonta spoke out:

"Is... is Ouma-kun... thinking of doing something dangerous?"

"Of course not."

But everyone knew that was a kind lie, to hide all the hideous truthful secrets that Kokichi might as well gave away, be damn his weakness.

But Kokichi smiled nevertheless because with nothing left to say, he turned his back and quickly opened the door, followed by Miu and Gonta.

Because as his superiority scoffed at the wasted time, his weakness enjoyed the time spent with Miu and Gonta, like going back to a time before this stupid killing game where everything was... alright.

But it was no time to be sentimental. It didn't matter what he wanted in the first place. Because, after all... when this all started, it will have to end.

And he will get the ending he desired. In the way he wanted.

***

Gonta followed Kokichi once again, along with Miu. Of course, observing Kokichi and Miu together, Gonta was worrying all over again.

First the motive and now this.

Because Gonta knew... Gonta knew Kokichi and even Miu, they had their own schemes.

How he knew... well, Gonta observed. Gonta tried his best, in his promise to protect both Miu and Kokichi, he had to make sure they didn't do anything that would danger their own lives or others.

Unfortunately, he was worried that it might as well go in that direction.

He knew that his friends had good intentions. He hoped, and believed it to be so. Gonta still point blank refused the idea of his classmates being evil, even Tsumugi, who Gonta simply hoped had a valid explanation for all this, because Gonta just wanted to understand...

But good intentions do not mean they were done with good deeds.

Because for example, Kokichi's initial plans, which Gonta so very hate...

It was of course a good intention for someone to die in order for the escape of others.

It was a good intention for someone to perform a mercy killing to save others from despair, misguided as that was.

But good intentions as they are, it was terrible. Gonta really wanted no more death.

But what happened if Kokichi or Miu faced death because of what they were up to?

Gonta had a very simple reason why he joined the Killing Game Busters, among others.

It was to make amends with Kokichi and Miu. To make sure they didn't do anything stupid that endangered their lives.

So far, Gonta was vaguely aware where the killing game was going. He was still no good at this, and all this complicated stuff really makes him sleepy yet he tries... because gentleman always try. For Gonta to end up useful, as he recollected the confusing facts that led them here.

First, Tsumugi was the mastermind. Kaede died for no reason. That one hurt. He had absolutely no idea why, but it happened.

Second, Rantaro has a special perk. Gonta didn't know why Rantaro had such a thing. Just that he had, but... why?

Third, Miu and Kokichi had targets on their backs. Because they were dangerous. Why them? Why not him?

Fourth, there were multiple killing games, that other people suffered the same fate. With different masterminds. Why? Even when he saw the reasons, but... despair? That absolutely made no sense.

And how about this killing game? Was the reason the same? If that's so, it saddened Gonta greatly.

Fifth, there were the new motives. Who will target who? What will happen afterwards? Gonta was so very worried. He wish he can keep an eye on everyone, but he was unfortunately one person. The best he could do was keep an eye on the people who seemed to be in most danger.

Sixth, the motives connected everything into his mind. The Gofer Project, funeral, Ultimate Hunt... everything. It was... disturbing, but it's a lie anyway.

Right...?

Seventh, Kokichi and possibly Miu has their own plans. That they were steps ahead of him, which came to no surprise for Gonta. That they didn't trust each other. But he understood when the reasons were laid out, and frankly Gonta agreed.

It was like animals in the wild for Gonta. Once animal done something bad, other animals always shy away. But Gonta always tried to give second chance to the animal because he felt pity for it.

So, that's why he understood.

He knew Kokichi and Miu had their own plans.

Should he make his own to make sure that they don't do anything stupid? But what exactly can he do for them?

"Gonta, can you keep a lookout?" Kokichi asked, breaking out of Gonta's thoughts. He found himself near Rantaro's Lab.

Did this have to do with the fact of Rantaro's special perk? Will it shed some light about it?

Gonta had wondered what made Rantaro so special. Why he was killed first...? Will knowing give him solace?

It's better than knowing nothing.

Gonta knew a lot of things and he was glad about it. Despite being very complicated for Gonta, it opened his eyes to more lies of the killing game and prevented him from being swayed to the dance of death. He hoped it was the same for Kokichi and Miu.

Gonta wished the others knew of this too, but the problem was that Kokichi and Miu were too distrustful of the others to let them in.

And maybe they had a reason for that. If anything, although Gonta didn't like it, he tried to respect that and was grateful that he could at least help them instead of them being left on their lonesome.

"OK, team move out," Kokichi said, and they entered Rantaro's Ultimate Lab. Even though they know Rantaro's talent as the Ultimate Adventurer, the sight of Rantaro's Lab was was nothing like that whatsoever.

It was a dark room shaded in red, decorated with roses all around. At the very center was a huge round table with 8 chairs circling around. Scattered around were crates of items, but since closed, there was absolutely no telling of what's really inside, save for a few swords scattered around.

Gonta's first thought immediately was of the Round Table of the story King Arthur, one of the stories Gonta was read to when he was young before he was lost to the wild, among the other fairy tales or children stories he was told by one of his maids a long time ago as usual bedtime stories whenever he couldn't sleep.

Gonta would have thought Rantaro to be the Ultimate Knight, quite a gentlemanly talent if he didn't already know that Rantaro was the Ultimate Adventurer from that Kubs Pad.

At the very back was a safe with two dial locks, one with different animals, the other same as Kokichi's Lab.

It made no sense to either Miu or Gonta with the former noting, "If I didn't know Plain Jane to be the mastermind, I might have thought it to be the space idiot because of the space themed things we've been finding so far."

"That's the stupidest assumption I have ever heard, Iruma-chan," Kokichi remarked to Miu's statement, "But it is true that we have been meeting zodiac styled doors for both my Lab and Amami-chan. There is indeed a theme there."

Then, Kokichi walked up to the dial locks and clicked into it before they finally opened.

"Voila!" Kokichi exclaimed.

"How the fuck can you even do that?" Miu exclaimed in surprise.

Kokichi playfully tapped his head and said, "I see all. I know all."

Miu frowned at the answer, "Then, what the fuck am I thinking?"

Kokichi flinched, "And who would want to know what you think? If it's anything like that disaster in your Lab, then no one would even dare touch upon that brain of yours."

"Tch, that's because my golden brain is too complex for all you dumbasses. But seriously, how?" Miu asked.

Kokichi pulled out a USB key from the safe and then said, "The school has more clues than you think."

Hmm? Does that mean Kokichi found the password from the school? Wait... there was that slab he always found... at the beginning, it was only just...

"Does it have to do with horse a?" Gonta asked. Well, there was a horse on one of the dials and then there was that writing at the beginning. If the password was from the school...

"Ding ding ding! Correct," Kokichi exclaimed.

"Does this have to do with that damn special perk? Survivor perk..." Miu muttered, and Gonta's curiosity piqued at that too.

"But still," Miu said, pointing to the star dial which was locked onto twins which opened the safe, "Where did you find the hint for that one?"

"Around," Kokichi said, waving his hand away as if it wasn't important, "So do you want to watch this or not?"

The USB in Kokichi's hand seem to glint even with the lack of light, as in temptation. But Gonta thought that it was fine to take it. After all, the question of Rantaro and his special perk still lingered in the air.

Maybe he wanted the solace. Maybe he hoped knowing something like that will help him know more of the killing game and help them escape.

Gonta can hope...

There was a laptop in front of them at the table, and without anymore to say, Kokichi stuck the USB into it which consisted a video file. Clicking it immediately, a video played out.

It was Rantaro, who was sitting down somewhere in what looked like the same room they are in now, staring into the eyes of the three who looked back at him.

"I get that this is probably pretty confusing, seeing... yourself like this. Guess I should start from the beginning."

No one said a word, focused on what Rantaro had to say. How did he have this video? Why was it here? All of those questions could be asked later.

"First things first. I am... you. No tricks, no actors. It's you. The reason you don't remember recording this is because that memory was erased."

Like the memories they would have before the killing game, the ones they should have remember about being kidnapped but didn't. How was that memory erased? How were they kidnapped? Did they do anything before their memories were erased?

"Think of this video as a message from the Rantaro before you lost your memory to the Rantaro after you lost your memory. So let's get to it, then. The reason I recorded this footage."

The reason... did it have to do with the Survivor's Perk? The one that led Rantaro to the mastermind's door at the library and got him... killed.

"I won the right to a special perk for participating the killing game. Part of the perk is this video message. Monokuma said he was gonna make some kind of puzzle for you but the fact that you are watching this means that you have solved it already. Also you can't share this with anyone."

But... it was Kokichi that solved the puzzle, and sharing it with Gonta and Miu instead for the original recipient who was unfortunately king dead to even reach this point. Will they get in trouble for this? But then... they had been doing a lot of troubling things lately...

"If you catch Monokuma shooing anyone away from you, that's why. There's another part to this perk, something you get at the start of the game."

The Survivor's Perk... that tablet.

"I bet you know what I'm talking about. Something that you've had from the start, yeah? Now I thought that if you were smart, you'd have used it to end the killing game."

But he didn't. He just didn't...

"But if you are watching this, that obviously didn't work out."

In the worst way possible.

"Life's never easy, huh? Well, anyway, that's the perk. Other than that, you are just like all the others. You go in, they wipe your memories and you start killing. That's the way it is."

The way he said it, like he had done this all before. But when did this video message happened? Before their memories were erased, so... before the killing game? Then, how come Rantaro very well knew about this part of the killing game anyway?

"Now, Monokuma already told you this, but just in case... the killing game will continue until there are only two people left. Now the important part of that rule is that-"

Suddenly, the screen went bright red as it buzzed, shocking Rantaro. It shocked the others watching this too.

"What? What was so important about that rule?" Miu asked.

Only two people left in the killing game. What indeed was so important about that?

"Hahaha... Looks like they didn't want me sayin' that, huh? Guess you'll have to solve that little mystery. But hey, you are smart. I know you can do it. ... Oh. There is... one more thing."

One more thing...?

"Well, the truth is... this isn't your first killing game. You are the Ultimate Survivor. You survived the last killing game. That's why you get the perk- the Survivor Perk. But it's not all fun and games. Anyone who finds out who you are is gonna come for you. So watch your back. Trust no one. And never forget... you wanted this killing game, so you have to win no matter what. ... No matter what."

The video ended there, and it was so shocking that Gonta's brain stopped momentarily to process everything. And he still could not believe it.

"He was... what the... why did he..." Miu spluttered, also in some form of surprise. The only one that was calm was Kokichi who gave one last look at Rantaro on the screen who muttered to himself, "So we are more alike than I thought, huh, Amami-chan?"

But Gonta did hear that and alike... alike in what-

So you have to win no matter what. ... No matter what.

Gonta still remembered the tried mercy killing, the mind reader. What Kokichi had been trying to do. Win... no matter what.

To end and escape the killing game... two different things. Gonta felt he was slowly understanding what Miu meant by that.

But for the love of Atua, please Kokichi, do not end up as the next Rantaro. That was the last thing Gonta wanted.

One thing that seemed to latch onto Gonta's brain was the fact that Rantaro was in a previous killing game and he wanted to participate in this one which ended up with him having a special perk.

But why would anyone want it? Gonta always felt sad at each death of his friends. Who would want to experience this all over again? What did Rantaro feel when he participated in a previous killing game and saw his friends die? What happened to... them?

As Gonta thought about the video, he was also looking around the Lab and something struck his eye. Over the walls, there were portraits of people... unfamiliar faces but what was truly unsettling was that...

Gonta walked closer to one of the portraits, seeing the face of a black haired boy looking back at him. It was a very nice portrait indeed... if not for the face being crossed out. Like the faces crossed out in class trials.

"These... these pictures of Amami-kun's friends?" Gonta asked aloud. This took Miu and Kokichi's attention to Gonta who finally took notice of the portraits.

There were 14 altogether, both boys and girls of different appearances and sizes but still teenagers and all crossed out differently with the same red color used to cross out the portraits of their own deceased friends.

"These... these could only be the people who participated in Amami's previous killing game!" Miu gasped, "But..."

"But?" Kokichi prompted.

"I don't remember any killing game with these people in right? There were only three killing games, four if you count ours," Miu muttered.

"Then... Monokuma lied again. There more killing games," Gonta said, deflating as he realized this. Monokuma lies a lot of times so Gonta was not surprised by this, but killing games... how many, and why? Why?

And Rantaro who survived the killing game... he...

"Amami-kun... he survived last killing game. He got Survivor Perk, and he got in this killing game..." Gonta said.

"Because he wanted it," Miu said, a little angrily, "Because that motherfucker wanted this killing game that he came here and got his just desserts..."

"Iruma-san?!" Gonta cried out in surprise.

"But it's true. What normal person would even think of coming back here and getting into all this... again?! Only a sick motherfucker, that's-"

"Or someone who wanted to end this game as we know it," Kokichi said.

"What?" Gonta and Miu asked as they spun to him. Kokichi pouted.

"How could you speak bad of my beloved Amami-chan like that? Have respect for the dead, will you? After all, Amami-chan really wanted to end the killing game, but... that didn't work out for him..."

"... Ouma-kun is right," Gonta said, remembering the brief time he had with Rantaro. Rantaro, the laidback friendly person. Always so nice and when the time limit came to, so determined to end the killing game. He even went to that meeting, tried to help them not that Gonta saw much of that when he watching his bug movie...

Rantaro only wanted the best for them, he tried to end the game for himself and everyone. There was no need to speak ill of a friend like that. Kokichi was right.

"... The avocado is still crazy," Miu finally said, "After all, why come back to the killing game...?"

Why indeed? As they looked at the portraits of the dead they never met, the room now giving off a melancholy vibe as Gonta now realized... this was a Lab of mourning. Rantaro...

"Shouldn't it be obvious?" Kokichi asked aloud. He was staring at one of the portraits which was of a girl standing tall with a hand in the air and Monokuma in front of her with a frown.

Why did one of the portraits have a person with Monokuma there? Was that person in cahoots with Monokuma? But that person died anyway. What happened in that killing game? But maybe Gonta didn't want to know.

"Oi, don't leave us hanging. What's so obvious?" Miu demanded.

"Hmm... I was talking to myself. Don't worry about it," Kokichi said nonchalantly as he turned towards them.

"... Just tell us what you thought, Ouma-kun. Gonta want to know," Gonta said, maybe a little sadly. Rantaro wasn't the person who Gonta thought he was, although still the person who was in the same situation as them, who wanted the same thing as them but different entirely... Well...

Kokichi was in deep thought as if thinking what should be said and what not before he finally said it out, "I'm only saying this to honor Amami-chan's memory, because you guys can't help think bad of him. So..."

"Did it ever occur to you he survived in his killing game and was forced to participate in this one?" Kokichi asked.

"Forced...?" Miu asked.

"After all, except for his perk, he's just like us, as he said. He survived in his old killing game and they suddenly whip up the Survivor's Perk just for him. That's all, but in the end, it's safe to say that he was kidnapped and forced into this game just like us. Otherwise, he wouldn't be so adamant of blatantly ending this game. If he wanted it, he would stay behind the scenes and kill someone, as the purpose of this killing game. But he didn't, did he?"

That was... all true. If someone wanted the killing game, wouldn't they just kill someone like the game said?

But if that was the case...

"Amami-kun survived in last killing game. And then... come back to this killing game... So that means..." Gonta said slowly, as if trying to piece a complicated puzzle.

Kokichi looked like he already knew. Miu was flaring up at the statement.

"So does that mean if we survive, just like that rule of two people left, then..." Miu started.

But actually, it was the only thing they can think of. They all knew, and Gonta... couldn't stand it. This only fuelled Gonta's determination. Which gave way to an idea... and finally, a plan. Somewhat.

Since Kokichi and Miu had their own plans for this killing game, Gonta will too, just in case their plans failed.

Because... no matter what, Gonta would never... never allow his friends to go back to this game if they survived together!

Chapter Text

Miu had absolutely no idea how to process all that.

In fact, she was still shocked at such a revelation.

To end. To escape.

Miu felt she finally understood the difference.

After all, they were kidnapped. They were forced into the killing game. And when they escaped? Will they just come back for them? Force them into another killing game?

End the killing game. To destroy it. To make sure it never happens again.

There's a difference and Miu in a sense now understood Kokichi a little better in that area. She felt that Gonta also reached to the same conclusion.

To no longer want to just escape. To prevent another Rantaro... they will do everything they could to end the game. But how...? Why... why was this happening? Although...

"Can't we go back to the mastermind's lair?" Miu asked, "I think it's time we get all our answers to these stupid questions. But first... I need some tools from my Lab."

Rantaro's reveal was the hammer to everything they knew were lies, smashing to the real truth of their situation, a situation so blatantly ignored and never even known... until now.

And it was damn right that Motherkuma knew everything. It's time it spat out those answers, no more nice inventor. And after everything, she felt like she had the perfect plan for it.

"Sure, sure," Kokichi agreed easily, although his eyes warily looked at Miu as if in wondering, in paranoia.

That was his style Miu guessed, not that she blamed him. She was that paranoid a long time ago, still was if she were completely honest herself. Forgetting they were in the killing game and letting your own guard down was the highest stupidity.

"If anything, how bout we meet in your Lab in half an hour. I have stuff to do," Kokichi said.

"You do?" Miu narrowed her eyes while Gonta too although it was just suspiciously. Kokichi was not dense not to notice that.

"What the fuck do you think I can do in half an hour? Seriously, I'm not a being of mass destruction, guys."

"... Yet," Miu muttered. Really, a lot of things can be used to describe Kokichi but harmless isn't one of them. Otherwise, it is perfectly reasonable to assume Kokichi a being of mass destruction.

"... If Iruma-san at Lab, then what Ouma-kun going to do?" Gonta asked. He had the right idea: it was necessary to know what Kokichi's up to.

"Hmm... I'm going to the End Wall and try to climb outta there, so wish me luck. But that's a lie, of course! I'm just off to my own Lab. I haven't basked in it's glory long enough," Kokichi said.

Really? Then, why didn't Miu believe it? Maybe she was all too wary of Kokichi's lies anyway to the point she will disbelieve everything.

"Umm... Gonta also have stuff to do, so this good idea," Gonta said.

What? Even Gonta? When he was always insistent to hang out with Miu and Kokichi making sure they didn't do anything 'regrettable'?

"Gonta... just want to think things through. Too much to think about, so Gonta want to be alone for a while," Gonta clarified his intent and for all it's worth, Miu doesn't blame that thinking.

After all, the new information was practically mind blowing, so mind blowing that Miu, well... Miu was slowly...-

"So if we are finally done here, how about we get out now?" Kokichi asked, breaking Miu from her thoughts and heading towards the door. Miu followed. But Gonta stood still, with his head hung low and praying before he followed the duo.

"Hmm... what was that for, Gonta?" Kokichi asked.

"Well... although Gonta don't know those people, they probably used to be Amami-kun's friends. And... Gonta just want to pay respects. For Amami-kun, since he never seen his Lab."

That was something. Honestly, the big guy is always too nice it's bordering on angelic. He says it's because he wants to be a gentleman, but Miu can't honestly, for the life of her, ever think that gentlemen these days have this level of kindness.

Then, Gonta left them around the second floor, bidding Miu and Kokichi farewell with parting words, "Please get along, Ouma-kun, Iruma-san."

He said it with such a worried tone and both Miu and Kokichi knew why, considering their circumstances and being alone together once again, without Gonta, as a mediator... a third person who was there to make sure one doesn't kill the other...

Sure they were alone together once during Kokichi's little experiment but only for a brief while. And it ended somewhat... OK, but unfinished. And here's round two.

She looked at Kokichi in silence. There had so much to say but said nothing at all. In the end, after their brief stint alone, it was like a mutual decision to more or less bury the hatchet. They still acted the same and that was it.

It's strange that they didn't become enemies for this, but they obviously weren't friends either. As they never trusted each other... and probably never will. And they were overall fine with that.

Miu knew Kokichi was up to something, and she wanted to probe at it like hell, but he would probably lie his way out and Miu didn't have time for that bullshit. It was better to get everything out from Motherkuma itself and then...

And then...?

For some reason, Miu didn't like thinking about that. Sure, and then they get all the answers, a plan was made and they all get out.

If she can.

Because Miu might be all that... but, she wasn't. Sure, she talked big. She was eating up this second chance, but when it came down to it, can she really do it? Can she carry on a plan, that will get her and the others... out of here alive?

Miu did not forget her promise to Kiibo. Miu did not forget Gonta's promise to her. Miu did not forget the VR fiasco, nor the fact that Kokichi said she should give herself a second chance when she felt a smidgen of guilt.

"You are shaking in your boots, Iruma-chan. Getting cold feet?" Kokichi asked, when he turned around and assessed Miu.

"Fuck no!" Miu shouted, and like that, all her nerves vanished, as she became the gorgeous girl genius, the girl that takes no shit from others and gives shit to them instead. The girl that was always at the fucking top of the world and could do anything, who has a solid plan to gather information from the shota and Motherkuma. Right?

"You are still shaking," Kokichi quipped, "Are you... scared?"

"What makes you say that? You should get your eyes checked!" Miu retorted.

"But you are a terrible liar," Kokichi pointed out, "You have to do so much better to out lie a liar."

Of course, he pulls out his 'liar can spot other's lies' card.

But what's wrong with being scared?! This gorgeous girl genius is getting too much shit in this killing game that it would have made a weaker person buckle on their knees. Almost killed, target on the back, multiple killing games, the possibility of going back even if she survived... That stupid possibility...

"Why...?" Miu's voice cracked a little, because Rantaro's video was something like the last straw. Just like those meteorites.

"Why did this have to happen to us? We... we are all going to die anyway, aren't we? And if we don't, then... then...!"

The fact that this killing game that promised death and repeat... just like what had happened with Rantaro... Miu didn't want that, and that became her final straw. Because it was insane, stupid, crazy, unbelievable!

And the strong shell broke to make way for the weaker self, the one rightfully scared of her own wellbeing.

Because finally, no matter how much after the VR fiasco... that she kept telling herself everything will be fine, that this gorgeous girl genius can do something, that the Killing Game Busters that happened was a stepping stone to escape, that everything will be alright, the promises and second chances she should keep, the possibility that she might not die in this killing game after all...

Those were all her lies. The fierce cocky personality as an inventor finally gave way to a more vulnerable and masochistic personality, something she secretly suppressed all this time although not well enough.

And for some reason, like a fire truck, all this had to hit her. Miu knew she was going to break from Rantaro's video, when that avocado said all that shit... but she broke much faster than she anticipated... and in front of Kokichi no less.

Kokichi actually walked towards her and then patted her on the back as he said, in a monotone but gentle voice, "Let it all out. It's OK to be overwhelmed."

Miu had convinced herself she had everything under control. That if she had her genius plan under the works, everything will be fine.

But there are still so many risks, and she hated risks. Miu was still determined to do everything she can to get out of here alive but became scared for her own mortality. Scared against most other people who never gave her any shit.

Still Miu didn't want to give up and she wasn't, but she was scared... everything she was learning made her feel more trapped. As in escaping and being brought back here? That was terrifying.

However, the last thing that she wanted was to completely break down in front of Kokichi and get his pity. Her pride didn't allow it so she sucked a deep breath and pushed herself far away from Kokichi as she put her hands on her hip.

"Like I need any of your fucking pity. I'm fine! I just have to psyche myself, ya know? After all, makes it seem this killing game is impossible to escape from, ya know? Survivors of past killing games going to another. Hahaha. That's not funny at all," Miu said.

They were not friends. They distrusted each other. But Miu didn't mind letting out some of her pent up, vulnerable emotion to Kokichi. And Kokichi received without even making fun of her like his usual persona would.

And there again was only silence like the time when Kokichi let her stew in her feelings after her fact that people betray and her plea that she will do anything if she can get out. But this time...

"You look like you have something to say so spit it out," Miu said. She remembered back then Kokichi wanted to say something but respectfully stayed silent. This time, she wanted to know what he thought.

Kokichi looked shocked at that but he talked anyway.

"Are you sure you want to hear what a liar like me says?" Kokichi asked.

"Then use whatever is not a liar inside you to answer me. If you are holding in something, just let it all out. I wanna know," Miu said.

Before she knew it, Kokichi took out a can of Panta from who knows where, shook it and fizzed at her.

"What the fuck?" Miu asked, wiping away the juice from her face as Kokichi gave away a shit eating grin.

"Do you know that 70% of my body is made out of lies and the rest is Panta?" Kokichi asked.

"That doesn't mean you get to spray me with the damn drink!" Miu shouted.

"But it was fun!"

"You insufferable..."

"Your welcome."

"As if I ever gave you a fucking thanks."

And then they were arguing which annoyed Miu. Can't the guy take things seriously? But then...

"Yeah... you look much better now, Iruma-chan," Kokichi quipped.

"Coz you wanted to see my tits?" Miu asked, flashing her soaked shirt revealing them with a mischievous smile. If he wanted to fucking see 'em, let him, although... it was a little embarrassing if she would admit...

"No interest in cow udders, sorry not sorry. But it's much better to be happy than worrying about all that stuff, isn't it?"

"... That was your intention all along," Miu said pointedly to which Kokichi gave a placid smile.

"Is it?" Kokichi asked, "But don't you feel better? Better than worrying like a madmen. Better to get your head in the game, eyes on the prize, right? And take this moment for all its worth because I just don't want my inventing bitch going the deep end and killing like an idiot, OK?"

... And a possible moment ruined so Miu decided to say, "Fuck you."

"Gladly~"

"... But how?" Miu asked, a question lingering in her mind.

"Hmm...?" Kokichi asked.

"How will you actually end the killing game? How do you stop something like this?" Miu asked.

She wanted to know this the most. She wanted to know there was a way. She wanted to know it was possible.

And then she can truly stop panicking, be less afraid because if the possibility exists...

Kokichi closed his eyes briefly but kept the same expression on his face before he said, "By ruining it."

"How will you do you that?"

"That's a secret~ See ya on the flipside, Iruma-chan," Kokichi finally said when they neared his Lab and he went under before Miu could even say anything. Damn, she still had so many questions.

But Miu really did feel better, especially after letting some of it out. And Kokichi was right, there was no point worrying. The odds were always stacked against them, so they had to work with it anyway.

Finally, Miu made her way to her own Lab, looking through her inventions.

Because Motherkuma... she really did have the perfect plan. Maybe all the questions would be really answered. Maybe they would find something against this game and use it.

As she chose the correct inventions and modified some of them, she felt soothed, the events lodging at the back of her mind as she let her work consume her even if she did break down before. But work was really what she needed to keep herself in check.

Somehow she didn't have long with that, as she heard, "Hey Iruma."

It was neither Gonta nor Kokichi and she wasn't stupid enough to forget that the motive was still underway and it targeted people so she got the nearest tool, a hammer which flashed her back to there but ignored it, and turned around to the other person.

"I have a hammer and I'm not afraid to use it!" Miu cried out as if she was wielding a knife and the other person she saw, Kaito Momota immediately backed away hands raised as he tried to pacify Miu:

"Hey, hey, it's just me, Kaito Momota, Luminary of the Stars! I just need your help, Iruma!"

"My help...?" Miu asked, surprised by this out of the blue request and lowered the hammer but did not let it go.

"Yea... yeah," Kaito said, rubbing the back of his head, "And can you put down the hammer?"

But it just made Miu tighten on it more. Like hell she was stupid.

"Just spit out what you want with me space bub. What the fuck do you want with me anyway?"

Kaito Momota, it was strange he was here because in all honesty, Miu and him don't get along well. Whenever they talked to each other, they argued a lot because despite being loud together, they were quite different so they tend to stay away from each other.

So why was he here now, unless...? But he said he wanted Miu's help. Since when does anyone, except for Kokichi and Kiibo these days, need Miu's help?

"Well, it's just that the motive got me thinking," Kaito started which made Miu reflexively gripped the hammer tighter, "And I feel like it's getting more dangerous. We need to defy Monokuma and get out of here. And I remembered, in the virtual world, you are really good with inventions Iruma. Maybe if you made something that can help us defy Monokuma..."

"Why fucking ask me now? Course I have ways to make great inventions but why ask now of all times?"

"Better late than never," Kaito said a little forcefully, "After all, I- I mean, we don't have much time left."

A slip. He didn't have much time... what was he talking about? Is something wrong with him?

That worried Miu because that meant desperation and desperation in a killing game... meant death, some way, somehow. But...

"Sure I could, you came to the right place but what's the damn plan?"

To hell if she was having another Kaede and Shuichi. That's why she was asking. She asked the same thing to Kokichi after that gym meet just in case. Although openly defying Monokuma was suicidal, it didn't seem like the scheming murder like... before. So she gave in.

Also because Kokichi had ways with words. Unfortunately, especially that.

And how about Kaito?

"Easy. You make something that can destroy Monokuma and the Exisals. Like bombs or an override remote. Or any weapons really. As long as they can pack a punch towards the bear."

How nearly similar this was to Kokichi's plan... at least the one he told her except not as detailed, but that was an idiot for you. So Miu will give the same answer as she saw fit.

"Absolutely not. Why the hell would I openly defy Monokuma like that? There's still the Exisals and I doubt that any weapon can do actual shit against them."

Because a giant mecha robot VS a human. Damn straight easy to know which one would have won.

"Don't say it like that!" Kaito declared, "You won't know unless you try. Aren't you tired of being pushed around by that bear?"

"Damn right I am, but what's the use of defying it when you might die for it?!" Miu asked. No use on going suicidal missions.

"But it's better than doing nothing! We have to do something!" Kaito exclaimed.

Something, yes... that was what Miu sought after the VR fiasco, something that Kokichi and Gonta did too which came about the KGB, but...

"But I don't want to die."

The only difference is that they were smart enough not to risk their own lives by getting all the facts and staying in the shadows unlike Kaito. One of the reasons that the two do not get along. Kaito was stupid in that regard and Miu didn't tolerate that.

So, she said the same thing she told Kokichi when he gave a similar plan to Kaito's.

"So don't involve me," Miu said firmly, "I will make your fucking tools, so give me a few days. But don't involve me. If you do succeed then I will do anything to get out of here."

Kokichi had accepted that quietly.

"But we need you Iruma. We need all of you."

Yet Kaito refused it straight up.

"We need all the help we can get. Me, you, Harumaki, Shuichi... everyone."

"Have you told anyone about this?"

"Not yet," Kaito shook his head, "Once the inventions are finished, then I will tell them. So please... I will do anything..."

Kaito suddenly dropped to his knees and bowed to Miu.

"What the fuck?" Miu asked. Please don't tell her...

"I heard from Shuichi that he had to bow to you for your inventions and I'm willing to do the same thing, because we need them Iruma!"

How exactly desperate was he?! What the fuck happened?!

"F- fine! I never said I wasn't going to do it," Miu said, unbelieving that the second time someone bowed to her and she still felt... uneasy about it. Fuck it, there must be strange powers in bowing.

Kaito suddenly got up and smiled, "Thanks a lot, Iruma. I promise you... we will get out of here. That bear won't know what will hit him. And you will help us too. There is a better chance with more numbers, right?"

Before Miu could say anything, Kaito already left. Oh, fuck him. She can't believe this was happening. She blamed Kaede and Shuichi for making her weak to bowing. But whose to say she couldn't use this?

There was no point worrying. Life moved forward. But Miu thought it better to inform Kokichi and Gonta about this bit. She wondered what they will do...

Strange, even when Miu had her own plan, she still came to the KGB for help, as well as information, but why not? Like the fact of the mastermind room which they will go in half an hour's time.

Little did she know, there would be a minor setback in that.

***

"What do you want, Shirogane-chan?" Kokichi asked, with a small smile. It just happened. After finishing his business and getting what he wanted to be brought back to his room, he was assaulted by both Himiko and Tsumugi who were both surprisingly strong despite their appearances or he was weak, damn his short stature.

And now he was brought (kidnapped) to the Ulitmate Cosplayer's Lab around the same time he was supposed to meet Gonta and Miu in her Lab.

Luckily he somehow met Gonta on the way out of the dorms and subtly passed a message along. He hoped Gonta was smart enough to understand, despite his naive idiocy at times, and that Miu too will get it and do what was needed. It's strange that he would put a lot of faith towards the duo when Kokichi wouldn't in any other day, but...

So far they have surprised him too much, ever since that fiasco where they always corner him, made connections they would never have before, followed him around and even helped him.

He knew that they probably had ulterior motives such as himself did, but at the same time... it had been more beneficial to him than not. So... surprise him some more. And get the damn hint. So his job here will be well worth it; distracting and occupying Tsumugi.

"Well, it was the moment I saw you in that ballerina costume that I knew... knew that you would be the perfect model for all my new cosplays. Of course the motive totally ruined some of my cosplay but my most important ones are still intact. And you really do have the perfect trap body as Yumeno-san said. Maybe you will look good in Gothic Lolita-"

"And I'm gonna stop you right there," Kokichi said, "I admit to my trap body. It's not a lie, but that does not mean I will dress up as Gothic Lolita. No way, absolutely not. Not in a bajillion years."

"But you would look like a certain gambler except mini size! And I'm sure you will look great at it since you are both liars and it could be cosplay at its-"

"No," Kokichi was adamant. No Gothic Lolita dress. The last time he wore one... he still didn't know how it happened, but in Transylvania, it ended up him kidnapped in a vampire's coven, where the obviously not real vampires, just delusional cannibals (do they count as cannibals if they suck people's blood?) due to his dress, pale and beautiful skin befitting of a vampire princess. God help him, it was funny and not at the same time.

"You say it like you had a choice..." Tsumugi said, and then quicker than lightning, he was suddenly in the same Gothic Lolita dress.

Kokichi, astonished, spun around to see Tsumugi with a triumphant smirk, "You really do look so cute. I can't wait until I get the camera."

Kokichi gritted his teeth. It's not that he wasn't used to being crossdressed. After all, sometimes disguises were needed in his organization so it just happens, but still...

If it were anyone else... maybe he wouldn't have such a tight guard against Tsumugi Shirogane, mastermind and part of the kidnappers putting them in this situation. Why would Tsumugi risk herself at the same time was beyond Kokichi but the point still stands that she was mostly the reason for their suffering.

Kokichi sighed internally. He might as well go with it. Any other time, he would just play along with it and choose to take the situation for his own benefit. What's stopping him from using the same strategy?

But damn did he still hate the Gothic Lolita, as he fiddled the dress bitterly.

"Give me back my clothes. Do you know how expensive they are to keep it like that? I can sue you if you somehow dirty those clothes," Kokichi said.

"No can do, Ouma-kun," Tsumugi shook her head defiantly even though with a threat of sueing in the air, "Let's wait until I get the camera. I really need to take pictures of this masterpiece. But until then, would you like a drink?"

Tsumugi's Lab was a large place with a revolving set piece that was once a castle, then a classroom and then a bathtub? Kokichi had no idea what to make of the last one. There was another permanent set piece of a gothic style theme. And finally a bar which he honestly thought was another set piece until Tsumugi went to the front of the counter and started bringing out drinks.

"Of course they are all non-alcoholic and might as well have a drink before going ahead to our cosplay frenzy. I'm sure you will look good with Madoka cosplay coz it will look cute. Or Sailor Moon! And then, there's maid, plenty maid costumes that would definately suit you! But I think a short skirt would be nice! Maybe Umaru-chan because you would look cute in a hamster outfit. And you are no Hoshi-kun, but you have cat like features that might suit you to be Morgana but... nah. Maybe Joker woud suit you better. Oh, how about Kaitou Kid? He wears all white like you and you would look so dashing in a monocle and top hat and-"

"Is this your idea of killing me, Shirogne-chan?" Kokichi finally asked.

"Huh, of course not," Tsumugi protested frantically, "What do you mean anyway? It's not like I'm poisoning any of these drinks."

"No, I mean your cosplay. Because are you trying to tire me to death? Or traumatise me? That sounds cruel, even for you, Shirogane-chan," Kokichi said.

"Come on, that has to be a lie. It's not all too bad. You also have the perfect body to cosplay and don't worry, you are not the only one that I want to cosplay with. After all, don't they say that cosplay is best with plenty of people? That's why there are so many conventions over the world! Oh... and here you go," Tsumugi said, as she slid a cocktail over to Kokichi.

"What drink is this?" Kokichi asked, as he shook the drink a little and heard the clinking of ice over the glass.

"It's a Roy Rogers. A mocktail made with cola and grenadine syrup, with maraschino cherry. It's one of the easier recipes and it gives a nice fizzy sweetness to it. Since you like carbonated drinks, I thought this would be OK."

Still, Kokichi did not drink, just clinking the ices together in the glass which Tsumugi noticed and said, "Of course it's not poisoned. You worry too much, Ouma-kun."

"Cheers then," Kokichi said, knowing he had to drink eventually so he took a sip and it was not bad at all.

Tsumugi was whipping up her own mocktail before taking a sip herself, "What's taking him so long? He should be here with the camera by now."

"Him?" Kokichi asked. He thought it would be Himiko who brought the camera, considering she was the one that aided Tsumugi in kidnapping him. She said something like 'Revenge for the thing at the girl's bathroom.' But honestly, Kokichi didn't care. Some necessary evil have always been needed to move forward. If evil wasn't needed, then wars would never happen.

"Ah... nothing, nothing. It's a surprise," Tsumugi said slyly. Kokichi didn't like that. Honestly, at this point, he wasn't sure of Tsumugi's purpose this time around.

Maybe she was keeping pretenses. Maybe she was letting off steam. Either way, it didn't seem Tsumugi was going to confront Kokichi about what he's up to, and what he knew.

Miu and Kokichi are at the chopping block. They both knew it. From the Flashback Light, with that little stupid ending about not beating the killing game, he was very sure that Tsumugi was at least aware.

But he refused to give Tsumugi anything to work with. Because outright asking her what she wanted with the knowledge that Kokichi most definitely knew Tsumugi was the mastermind was risky as hell. The confirmation shouldn't be given.

He wanted Tsumugi to start that one out of sheer principle. He wanted to deal with the mastermind in his own terms. So he will play for a while and pull the rug underneath when she least expect it.

And then the door opened.

"Oh, Shirogane-san, here's the camera yo- Ouma-kun, what are you doing here? And why are you wearing that dress?"

Kokichi schooled a nonchalant impression. So Shuichi was the 'him' that Tsumugi mentioned but why him? Why him, and not Miu? Or even Gonta? The people that derailed the killing game when no murder happened in that virtual world. Does Tsumugi really have no ulterior motive as the mastermind to kidnap Kokichi here?

Because... why Shuichi?

"Oh, Saihara-chan! Do you like what you see?" Kokichi asked as he winked at Shuichi and showed off the dress. Making Shuichi blush, a predictable reaction. And Tsumugi squealed, a less predictable reaction. Tsumugi took the camera and quickly snapshot Kokichi in that pose before he could stop.

Tsumugi also closed the door of her Lab, trapping both Shuichi and Kokichi inside with an almost deranged smile on her face that Shuichi immediately picked up and stutter, "Shi- Shirogane-san?!"

"I'm glad that you are here too because I can now cosplay you and Ouma-kun!" Tsumugi declared.

"Cos- cosplay?!" Shuichi stuttered like he now wanted to be somewhere else than here, "Why... why me?"

"Yeah, why Saihara-chan?" Kokichi asked. He really was curious.

"Why not?" Tsumugi asked, "He's the splitting image of Naoto Shirogane from Persona 4 and I have always been itching to cosplay him like that. You rarely have people that are splitting images of your favorite characters like Toujou-san who could be a great 2B from Nier: Automota or Hoshi-kun in the Morgana costume! But unfortunately, I will never have the chance to even ask..."

Tsumugi sounds regretful about that. Is she really? After everything she's done...

"And the pop idol costume on you, Saihara-kun! Like Ouma-kun, it's as if some creativity deity struck me and to let out all my pent frustrations thanks to everything happening recently, I just had to cosplay the both of you."

"You know, Saihara-kun, other than Naoto Shirogane, I think you can get away with cosplaying many female characters too. I'm sure you will look good in a maid costume... and oh! How about Shizuo? And Ouma-kun can be Izaya. That will be quite interesting indeed."

"And you can even cosplay a few of my ships, both of you, because the phantom thief x detective trope is so awesome that I have read so many fanfiction... and I always wanted a chance to reenact a few of them."

"Maybe I could get Saihara-kun dressed up as Akechi and Ouma-kun as Joker or Saihara-kun as Shinichi Kudo... they even almost have the same first names... and Ouma-kun as Kaitou Kid, although Cokai is preferable but Kaishin is good too..."

"And what about us? What if we don't want to do this, Shirogane-chan?" Kokichi asked, already feeling dread already. It was becoming obvious now, with 'everything happening recently' that Tsumugi was using Kokichi as an outlet for all her frustrations of killing game gone wrong considering that Tsumugi had pegged him as a threat and thus deemed everything that went wrong as his fault, probably.

And Shuichi was simply caught in a crossfire, and from what he heard, other than the detective x phantom thief trope, it seemed Shuichi was a worthy candidate of cosplay. Sucks to be him, but at least Kokichi had company in possible suffering.

"Yea... yeah, Shirogane-san," Shuichi said, "I remembered you telling me that cosplay should be done with love. But if you are forcing us to do it, there won't be any love in it, will there?"

It seemed that was enough to make Tsumugi come to her senses, and she finally said, "... I know. But I have been stuck here so long without any manga, anime or even con that I just wanted someone to cosplay with me. At first I wanted Harukawa-san to do it because I heard she was in a cosplay convention once but seeing you both in those costumes just flashes inspiration for me."

Then, Tsumugi pointed at them, almost in accusation, "So I'm begging you. I won't stop begging until you agree!"

"Shiro- Shirogane-san," Shuichi stuttered, unsure whether he can handle such a change in personality from the normally meek Tsumugi. Kokichi was surprised too. Because what kind of pent up frustrations tipped her off the edge? Wait, did he really have to ask? But still, this was borderline scary.

"So please! It won't take too long! I just need some pictures, and maybe a few BL scenes because I can't get enough yaoi-"

"BL scenes? With Saihara-chan? Wow... are you jumping the gun, Shirogane-chan?" Kokichi asked with a smirk.

"BL scenes... with Ouma-kun. Boy's love? I don't like Ouma-kun that way!"

How could anyone not like such a handsome boy that is Kokichi Ouma? But it was fine all the same. He had much better things to do than fall in love in a stupid killing game after all. So...

"Yeah, he's still hung up over his girlfriend. How rude to even suggest this to poor Saihara-chan..." Kokichi said, as he got up and decided to change back to his clothes.

"Ou- Ouma-kun..." Shuichi said, looking flustered and maybe a bit hurt. Well, Kaede was a very close friend of Shuichi's so it was a given...

"I didn't mean it like that," Tsumugi said, "I'm sorry, but it's cosplay so you just have to act the part. It doesn't mean that you have to be a real couple... although it's cute, all you have to- wait, where is Ouma-kun?"

"Huh?" Shuichi asked, before both Tsumugi and Shuichi saw that Kokichi had climbed up to one of Tsumugi's windows in the Lab.

Trying to unlock the window with great concentration.

"Wha- what are you doing, Ouma-kun?" Tsumugi asked.

"Ge- get down there, Ouma-kun," Shuichi said with concern. But Kokichi simply laughed.

"Oh... if my beloved Saihara-chan says so! But that's a lie! LIBERTY!"

Even if he had to occupy Tsumugi while Miu and Gonta were doing that, not only did he not want to go through any cosplay, Tsumugi chasing him may waste her time better than any cosplay.

"But we are at the fifth floor. How... how are you going to get away safely?" Shuichi asked.

Kokichi snorted, "Safety is for losers." And then, with a satisfying click, the window was now open, "Kokichi Ouma, awa- ack!"

"And you think I will let you?" Tsumugi asked, as she held tightly to his leg belts as she had rushed to climb the window so that Kokichi was mid-jump and slammed onto the sill of the window. Which FYI was painful but not so thanks to blocking most of the damage with his arms but still... damn it hurts.

"Form.... a contract with me!" Tsumugi said in a nearly demented wail as she pleaded.

"Hell no! Were you trying to kill me, Shirogane-chan? And that is how many times already?" Kokichi asked.

"That would be much better than escaping through the roof of a building on the fifth floor, wouldn't it?" Tsumugi asked.

"Shirogane-san is right, Ouma-kun," Shuichi said, "Cosplay couldn't be that bad, right? Shirogane-san... how about you choose the right cosplays for us and I will make sure Ouma-kun won't run away."

"Betrayal!" Kokichi pouted but Tsumugi was delighted at the idea and said, "Thanks, Saihara-kun."

And that was how Tsumugi with the help of Shuichi pulled Kokichi away from the window, then Tsumugi looking for the perfect cosplay as Shuichi was supposed to keep an eye on Kokichi.

And that was when Shuichi took Kokichi's hand and ran away, kicking the door down which was unattended. Unfortunately, Tsumugi noticed when she stuck her head out and shouted, "Hey wait!"

But she was too late as Shuichi and Kokichi ran away, heading outside of the Academy, with Shuichi saying, "Hopefully, there are more places to hide here..."

"Wow, you also really want to get out of that hell so badly, huh, Saihara-chan?" Kokichi asked.

"Umm... I won't call it hell, but I have better things to do than the cosplay, and the photo shoot... doesn't sound appealing to me," Shuichi said.

"Ah, still so shy, huh, Saihara-chan?" Kokichi asked, grinning.

"It's... nothing like that," Shuichi said, realizing that his hand was still clutching towards Kokichi and let it go to pull down a non-existent cap, a habit that didn't seem to go away. Kokichi put his hands at the back of his head, wondering when he would notice the hand holding.

Anyway, being partners in crime with Shuichi wasn't so bad... at least not the idiot Kaito or even worse, killer Maki.

Soon, they were out of breath, where they both rested against the pillars with each looking at the other in silence.

"Yo- You think we lost her?" Shuichi asked.

Kokichi looked around and shouted, "Oh no, run away, Saihara-chan! She's right behind us!"

"Wha-?" Shuichi asked with a start as he quickly got up but Kokichi laughed as he said, "But that's a lie."

"Ouma-kun..." Shuichi sighed, fairly annoyed. Despite being annoyed, he also seem relieved. Probably because Tsumugi had yet to catch up with them.

"You should have been used to it now. After all, I'm a liar," Kokichi said with a smile. Shuichi sighed again.

"You are right about that," Shuichi said, admitting that Kokichi was a liar but not doing anything about it, just finding out more about it. That was one of the things that piqued Kokichi's interest, enough to gauge whether he would be a trustworthy ally before even Miu and Gonta came to the fold although he was now working with them.

Shuichi could be useful... although he was unsure, but as a detective... Kokichi decided.

"Ah well... so long as we are here, it's time to torture you and send you to your death," Kokichi said happily.

"Wai- Wha- why?" Shuichi asked, stuttering.

"You saw me in that Gothic Lolita. That is a heinous crime indeed, Saihara-chan. I won't be satisfied until I have your head on a platter," Kokichi said.

"But... that's a lie, isn't it?" Shuichi asked.

"Of course not! I hate lies and jokes after all."

A brief bout of silence before saying, "That's a lie. But I still want your life before you could blackmail me for what you have seen.

"I... I won't blackmail you, Ouma-kun," Shuichi said.

"Yeah, yeah, that's what they all say. But because I'm a benevolent evil supreme leader, I might let you live if you win a game with me... right now!"

"Are you sure? With Shirogane-san on the prowl...?"

"Don't worry! We can keep a lookout while playing and it's really a simple game!" Kokichi shouted, while taking out a Monocoin from his pocket.

Then, he flipped the coin and then swiftly, he caught the coin with his two hands and held out his fists towards Shuichi.

"Go ahead. Which one has the Monocoin in it? This one or this one?" He shook each fist as he said it.

Shuichi said, "But... but... how am I supposed to know-?"

"Oh, come on, are you the Ultimate Detective or not? You don't have much time, y'know that? Or else your life is forfeit! Tick tock. Tick tock."

"Umm..." Shuichi said, as he somehow looked around at both fists before his eye caught something, "Is that the Monocoin down there?"

Indeed, there was a Monocoin on the floor, and when Kokichi opened his fists, it was revealed there was no Monocoin in either fist. Kokichi sighed.

"Ah well... must have not caught the coin in time. Looks like a misplay so it's a draw. Your life is still safe but I demand a rematch," Kokichi said.

"Ah... um... OK? But I don't want to forfeit my life or anything," Shuichi said with an unsure smile. Ah... Shuichi really is something.
To play along with him like that.

"But you know... you could have won so easily, instead of a draw. Thank God, you didn't because I hate losing," Kokichi said.

"Huh? What do you mean?" Shuichi asked.

"Well... the moment you saw that coin on the floor, instead of calling my bluff, you could have easily won by just saying something like 'The coin is not in that fist' and you had be instantly right whichever you choose. But you didn't, huh? You have to be so much better than that Saihara-chan."

Shuichi seemed to be contemplating Kokichi's words as Kokichi continued, "You can't win a game by the rules. You have to think out of the box and play beyond the game. There are infinite ways to beat the game, not just the ones you know. You have to keep an open mind or else you will never reach the right endgame, y'knooow? Or else it will be the death of you! But that could be a lie~"

It was easy to see Shuichi's gears thinking as he processed Kokichi's words. Even though Kokichi was an annoying liar, at least Shuichi doesn't outright dismiss everything he says unlike the others. And it was always apparent, making Kokichi appreciate Shuichi at times like these.

'Will you get it, Mr. Detective? Will you understand the words laid out? Will you reach the truth and win the game when all else fails?' Kokichi thought.

A little back-up plan when all else fails. That's what he decides. But hopefully, it will never come to pass. Yet Kokichi can never be too careful.

But then, the moment was short-lived as Tsumugi jumped out of the bushes behind them and said, "I found you!"

"Run! Run like the wind!" Kokichi immediately shouted, as he sprinted away followed closely by Shuichi, "You will never take us alive!"

And on the chase went, enough to distract Tsumugi and hopefully get him out of cosplay hell. Hopefully.

***

Now, before everything happened, let's rewind time a bit, say when Gonta was back in his Lab. Around that time, with the devastating knowledge of the two people rule in Rantaro's Lab, Gonta decided to take action.

Honestly, he's done all he can... as a person, helped all he can to others because there was strength in numbers, but now... even with Miu and Kokichi by his side... kind of, Gonta was still alone in trying to protect his friends. Because he was just one person. But then, he remembered something. Something that could change everything.

That was why he made to his Lab. Sure for the reason to process everything, which he did and maybe cried a little because what Rantaro went through was really saddening. Although it was all too complicated, in the end, it didn't really change what Gonta should do and all it did was add another promise made to his friends. For Rantaro who went through so much.

But of course there was also another reason, a reason he wanted to keep quiet from Kokichi and Miu, but thought it was for their own good, and so here he was.

Because he remembered... that he had friends, many friends who can watch the others for him without endangering themselves. Although he had to ask them first.

"So can you please help Gonta?" Gonta asked to the bugs in his Lab. The bugs were buzzing and Gonta can hear them loud and clear.

"You want us to keep an eye on your friends for you. And when one of them is in danger, you want us to try to buy you time so that you can come and rescue them?"

"Gonta think it might be too much to ask, so Gonta didn't ask until now, but Gonta... Gonta really want to do anything to make sure Gonta can protect friends. And that's why Gonta humbly request this," Gonta said, a pleading tone in voice.

Quieter buzzing and then, finally... he heard it.

"OK... you always nice to us. We don't mind doing this. And other classmates are fun. Had so much fun in Insect Meet and Greet."

"Thank you very much!" Gonta cried in delight, grateful. Hopefully, this will help the others in more ways than one...

And then, when Gonta let go some of his bugs to do the surveillance, Gonta still had free time in his hand and thought... maybe he should hang out with some others. After all, he had taken to vigilant watch over Kokichi and Miu to pass that duty to the bugs. He wondered what the others were doing, so he decided to check his Monopad which had shown where the others were.

Then, he saw Kiibo as the nearest to others, simply hanging around at the same floor, so Gonta proceeded to head to Kiibo's location and Kiibo was indeed walking around, mumbling.

"Kiibo-kun?" Gonta called out, as Kiibo rounded toward Gonta, a smile on his face.

"Hello, Gonta-kun. What are you doing here?"

"Gonta thought want to hang out more with friends, so see Kiibo-kun," Gonta said.

"Ah, that's nice of you, Gonta-kun. I will be glad to hang out with you," Kiibo said, who looked contemplative which Gonta picked up.

"Kiibo look sad. Why that? What's wrong?" Gonta asked.

"Oh... I'm not sad. Just worried. About the motive," Kiibo told Gonta.

"What wrong with motive? Gonta could help if Kiibo worried about it."

"Thank you, Gonta-kun, but... I don't really think you can help with this..." Kiibo muttered.

"Then, how about Kiibo-kun tell Gonta what on your mind instead? Gonta saw gentleman listening to worried friends and making them feel better. And Gonta as gentleman want to make Kiibo feel better, please?"

Kiibo seemed to be thinking, before he let out a smile and said, "Thank you. It's about the... motives."

"What about motives? For Kiibo-kun... bad?" Gonta asked softly.

"What motive isn't bad?" Kiibo asked with a wry smile, "But... it was really bad. Ouma-kun was right about the motive being a target one for the other classmates... and mine... was Iruma-san."

"Iruma-san?" Gonta asked, a little surprised. Gonta briefly remembered about the motives, and for Miu, Kokichi and Gonta himself... of their targets. Adding Kiibo's into the mix, it meant that the motives, as Kokichi predicted, were not one-on-one. Meaning that Kiibo wasn't Kokichi's because he got Miu's. That meant Maki's wasn't about Gonta's? Or Himiko's with Miu's?

Does that make things harder, then? Gonta hoped no one was going to kill. Gonta hoped they can keep themselves safe. Hopefully, he can-

His thoughts were cut off by Kiibo talking once again.

"Yes, Iruma-san. Of course I don't want to kill Iruma-san or anything, but I'm... worried for her," Kiibo said.

"Worried for Iruma-san?" Gonta asked. He remembered what his Flashback Light showed, but it didn't really make Gonta worried for Maki. Not at all as she was shown as an... enemy to him, separating him from his family. How do these Flashback Lights work? What did it show Kiibo, Gonta wondered.

But it wasn't gentlemanly to pry, so he didn't.

Before Kiibo can say anything, Gonta continued talking.

"Gonta understand that you are worried for Iruma-san. Gonta also worried for friends, but Gonta think..."

And his simplistic belief washed over as Gonta simply said.

"We all friends in the end. If Kiibo-kun worried about Iruma-san, then Kiibo-kun just be there for Iruma-san when she needs it."

Kiibo seemed to be thinking about his words as he finally let out a small smile, "Thank you, Gonta-kun. Your words mean so much. If you also need my help, then I will gladly assist!"

"Gonta glad about that. Does Kiibo-kun want to do anything with Gonta?" Gonta asked.

"Well, why not?" Kiibo asked, "Anything to get my mind off the motive. Why don't we watch movies?"

"Oh... then we can go watch bug documentaries together!" Gonta clapped in delight, but Kiibo winced.

"Umm... I had another show in mind. I... uh... wanted to understand romance more and Shirogane-san recommended I watched something called rom-coms to understand more about them."

"Gonta don't mind," Gonta said, "Gonta think romance beautiful and Gonta happy to watch it, but what are rom-coms?"

"According to Shirogane-san, rom-com stands for romantic comedy. She says not only is it lovely, there are also funny moments. Although she was still bitter there is no anime type rom-com, there were still some that stood out for her and she recommended to me."

"That very nice of Shirogane-san," Gonta said. Sure she might be the mastermind, but she could be a friend when she wanted to be, unlike Monokuma...

"Yes it is. It was better than Iruma-san's suggestion of how I should learn about romance..." Kiibo suddenly blushed.

"What is that?" Gonta asked curious.

"Nothing, nothing," Kiibo waved it away, "Let just watch the rom-com alright."

"OK," Gonta said because it was a fun way to spend time until Miu, Kokichi and Gonta had to meet at Miu's Lab.

And he was right although he didn't exactly get the rom-com and might have blushed a little when the characters blushed. Even though there was some comedy, neither Kiibo nor Gonta actually found it funny, more embarrassed at some moments or plain oblivious, not that they will ever know.

The rom-com was a twelve episode series but by the end credits of the second episode, something happened.

"Short purple haired boy trouble. Caught by witch and blue haired girl."

Meaning Kokichi was kidnapped by Himiko and Tsumugi. Gonta jumped up in surprise at this message sent by the bugs.

Kiibo was startled at Gonta's movement and stuttered a "Wha- what?"

Gonta looked sheepish and said, "Gonta remember Gonta had to do something important. Gonta thank Kiibo for letting Gonta spend time, but Gonta got to go."

Kiibo nodded, "I understand. Let's finish the rom-com series another time."

Gonta said a quick, "Thanks Kiibo-kun," before he left.

"... Coming out of the dorms. Can meet along the way. Good luck."

"Thank you, bug-san," Gonta said earnestly and was received with a "Your welcome."

And eventually, he was met with a Kokichi pinned and dragged by both Tsumugi and Himiko.

Even though he was informed about this, it didn't stop Gonta from being shocked at the scene so he had stuttered, "Wha- what's going on?"

Kokichi looked shocked to see Gonta at first but brought forth a burst of crocodile tears as he said, "Waah! Shirogane-chan and Yumeno-chan had kidnapped me because they want to sacrifice me!"

"Nyeeh, we aren't going to sacrifice you. We are just going to make you cosplay and take pictures of all of it," Himiko explained.

"Exactly," Kokichi complained, "You are going to sacrifice my pride and sanity. You monsters!"

"Oh, pay no attention to him Gonta-kun," Tsumugi reassured him, "It's all in good faith. Do you want to cosplay with me too?"

"Oooh, that's a great idea," Kokichi said, "Join in my suffering!"

"It's not going to be-" Tsumugi started but she was cut off abruptly by Kokichi.

"Nah, it was just a lie," Kokichi said nonchalantly, "Why would I want Gonta there with me? It will just give you ideas and I will suffer there longer..."

"Umm... it looks like Ouma-kun doesn't want to do it?" Gonta said, slowly trying to assess this situation, "So it better to let Ouma-kun go."

"No need for that," Tsumugi reassured Gonta again, "I'll make sure that Ouma-kun won't even regret this opportunity whatsoever! Once he forms a contract with me, he will thank me forever!"

"What contract?" Gonta asked, and even Himiko looked confused. But Kokichi kept a nonchalant expression on his face.

"A secret contract between cosplayers of course! And I will take my sweet time to make Ouma-kun agree with me on this front. Don't worry, transforming into your favourite characters hurts nobody," Tsumugi said.

"Wow... that sounds totally awesome! Take me away, then!" Kokichi said gleefully.

"Nyeh, really?" Himiko asked and then she muttered, although Gonta could hear, "Frog a better revenge..."

Gonta had absolutely no idea what a frog has anything to do with this worrying revenge of Himiko's but before he could call it out, Kokichi talked again.

"But it's a lie," Kokichi said smoothly, "Man, it sucks that I have been kidnapped. Now I can't do any evil leader stuff with my subordinates."

He must mean about the mastermind's lair. Gonta decided that he should try to stop this whole thing and let Kokichi be a free man, if not for those words.

"Ah well..." Kokichi sighed, "It looks like my subordinates have to do my job for me. I hope they can get enough information for my super duper evil plan."

"Nyeh... that's a lie isn't it? Since when did you have subordinates?" Himiko asked.

Kokichi pouted, "How rude. You forget that you are talking to the Ultimate Supreme Leader. Of course I have subordinates, at least 10000 of them!"

"Yeah... I did forget," Himiko admitted, "It's just that you are a liar and I assume that your talent and subordinates were a lie."

"How rude. My talent is totally completely true!" Kokichi declared.

"Yeah... that sounds like a lie," Himiko said.

Before Kokichi could even do a comeback for what may be the longest argument of he said, she said if it continued, Tsumugi said, "I think we wasted enough time already. I'm itching to get to my Lab already. Let's go!"

"Wh- wai-" Gonta tried to say wanting to remove Kokichi from their clutches but Kokichi looked back and subtly shook his head with a wink.

Gonta, stunned by that, left them be.

"Was Ouma-kun hinting something?" Gonta asked aloud.

"I wouldn't be surprise. Would you like us to still keep an eye on them?"

"Yes, of course," Gonta said cheerfully.

But now Gonta had to contemplate whatever Kokichi meant. Even though he was kidnapped, even though he doesn't want to do it...

What was Kokichi aiming for?

Maybe he should discuss with Miu.

With that resolution in mind, Gonta went to Miu's Lab, despite being a little early for it.

"Iruma-san...?" Gonta called out when he reached Miu's Lab where she looked hard at work with some inventions and she jumped up at the voice, aiming a ray gun at Gonta before she relaxed at who it was and let it down next to her.

"Don't scare me next time, bug man," Miu said with a sigh, "Guess all we have to do is wait for that gremlin."

"Uh... about that, Iruma-san..." Gonta said and he explained the events of Kokichi kidnapped to which Miu had her mouth wide open as she let out the first few words after being silent for the explanation.

"What the fuck?" Miu asked.

"Gonta don't know what to do about this..." Gonta admitted, "But Gonta think... Ouma-kun trying to tell Gonta something just now. So that's why Gonta didn't rescue him."

"Well, what is it?" Miu asked, arms crossed.

And Gonta told her about the conversation that went down, and Miu's eyebrows raised up.

"Does that gremlin... can he even...?" Miu shook her head frantically.

"What is it, Iruma-san?" Gonta asked, not getting it.

Miu repeated a few words:

"'It looks like my subordinates have to do it without me. I hope they can get enough information for super duper evil plan.' Isn't that what Ouma said?" Miu asked.

"Something like that," Gonta said, "But what does that have to do with anything?"

"It has everything to do with it. Even though I don't believe it..." Miu shook her head.

"It means that we are going to the mastermind's lair now while Ouma distracts Shirogane."

That was surprising because Kokichi was a distrustful person to a fault. And he rather do lots of things by himself, Gonta knew.

But... it seems that Kokichi had decided considering the motive. He remembered Kiibo. He wondered whether they were running out of time.

Gonta thinks he understood. And if Kokichi had already decided, Gonta decided too.

"Then, we go to mastermind room, and get information!" Gonta declared.

Hoping that all the decisions made will end hopefully in this killing story... up until this moment.

Chapter Text

"Fucking unbelievable!" Miu ranted, as she was going down the mastermind's room with Gonta alone. Thankfully, no one stopped them, because it would look suspicious with Miu carrying a bag of 'somethings' but still...

"Iruma-san?" Gonta asked tentatively, but Miu waved it away.

"Whatever. Let's just do what the little shit wants," Miu said.

Gonta nodded determinedly at that, but Miu still thought about Gonta's message, what Kokichi wanted them to do...

Honestly, Miu still found it unebelievable.

The fact that he would trust them to do something like that without him around.

'Why...? Does he really trust us that much?'

But Miu shook her head. Because that wasn't even possible. If there was one thing Miu and Kokichi share in the same vein, something that normal people should have in this fucking killing game, is that they don't trust easily. For Miu it was due to fear of betrayal, for Kokichi was unknown but probably the same reason as her.

Although Miu was unsure... there may be many reasons to distrust but usually the reasons boil down to one similarity, fear of people she guessed, for a reason. That's why there's distrust.

So it is very surprising that Kokichi might be distracting Tsumugi, the mastermind and thus letting Miu and Gonta do whatever they wanted.

However, it was more believable the fact that there may be variable factors that played to this happening.

Whatever the case Miu knew this was an opportunity that should not go wasted. And Miu knew what she had to do.

Because all she had to do what she was supposed to do. The decisions she made. The route taken that will get her out alive without any killing.

She hoped.

As Miu thought aplenty to herself, giving comfortable silence throughout the room, they have finally made it to the room and once again uncovered the sheet that revealed Motherkuma.

It was shocked and angry to see them.

"What the hell are you doing here again?! And why has no one killed?!" Motherkuma demanded.

Miu shrugged while Gonta decided to do his own thing.

"Of course we would be down here again. We aren't even close to done with you yet," Miu said, as she settled with her tools she took out from her bag.

"Wha- what are you going to do?" Motherkuma asked, immediately scared. Why's that? She made sure she treated Motherkuma so well during her reprogram, even if it was not even the least it deserved.

"I promise to be gentle~" Miu cooed, trying to pacify it. Usually Miu had healthy respect for inventions, but when they screw her over, there would be hell to pay. Plus, she already swore no nice inventor.

So, RID (Rest In Despair) Motherkuma although she still maintained professional dignity working with it.

"Eep!" Motherkuma let out a shriek, which made Miu frowned. If she remembered from the last time she tinkered Motherkuma, it was good and standard all around so why was it scared? Really, it should be glad that the Ultimate Inventor was even giving it the time of day.

"Now, let's get down to business," Miu said with determination.

"Wha- what are you going to do?!" Motherkuma demanded.

"Oh you will see...." Miu said softly, because by the time she was done with it, it will be spewing out information as easy as being laid.

Miu had cranked up many inventions in her day, mostly for the heck of it if anything, and usually when she was bored or blocked which was half the time unfortunately.

Surprisingly these inventions can come in handy like now. All Miu had to do was install one of the inventions and work into the program. As an inventor, she had quite a good hand in programming as evidence with the big ass computer on the fourth floor of the Academy. But considering their limited time in this room, it was great that she had inventions up in store to speed up the process.

As she went on working, despite the complaints and distractions called Motherkuma, with the help of Gonta who did simple things that Miu needed and quickened the pace of what would take hours, Miu continued for about an hour until...

"Bzzt... bzzt... Wha- erro- bzzt... ..." Motherkuma started before being still. Gonta had of course heard it, and asked, "Huh? What wrong?"

"Nothing whatsoever, big D!" Miu said proudly, "Now watch as this gorgeous girl's genius shines through!"

Before Gonta could say anything more, Motherkuma fizzled again and started saying, "Reboot... whirr... Loading..."

And finally awakened.

"Hello, Iruma-sama. What is it that you wish to know?" Motherkuma asked. Gonta was surprised at such behaviour from Motherkuma and looked at Miu in confusion as he stuttered, "Wha- what? What happened to Motherkuma?"

"Oh, I just tweaked the programming of this sucker a little. Now it would answer all our questions like a good bear, will you now?" Miu asked, aiming that at Motherkuma.

"Yes, Iruma-sama," Motherkuma said.

"And not only that, the mastermind won't be left any of the wiser once we leave coz it will act like it always does in front of her, right Motherkuma?"

"Correct Iruma-sama," Motherkuma said, and Miu felt high with being called like that. Getting the tittle she deserved. Ha, bow down to her genius, roaches!

"So..." Miu said, rubbing her hands, "How do you get out of this shitty killing game?"

"By murder, Iruma-sama," Motherkuma said to get a whack in the glass with a wrench by Miu.

"Another way out of this shitty killing game," Miu said irritably.

"There is none, Iruma-sama," Motherkuma said, and then there's another whack with the wrench, as Miu muttered bitterly, "Fucking useless..."

Actually, this is what she wanted and planned in its entirety. Truthfully, Miu hoped it was as simple as that to get out of the killing game, the moment she saw Motherkuma and knew it was the AI of this killing game.

Then again, there's Plan B. She didn't care what Kokichi had said, because who said that she couldn't do that?

"OK then, give me blackmail material against Shitogane!"

"B- blackmail?!" Gonta gasped, "Against Shirogane-san?! Why?"

"Why not?" Miu demanded. Motherkuma might say there's no way to get out of the killing game but whose to say that if they found blackmail against Tsumugi... against the mastermind and dangled it over her... she would meet their demands...

And they could go home...

"Blackmail against Tsumugi Shirogane..." Motherkuma seemed to be processing and Gonta seemed panicked.

"Wait, wait! Iruma-san sure this good idea?" Gonta asked.

"Why the fuck is this not a good idea? If we had something to dangle over her, wouldn't she take the bait, hook line and sinker? It would be easy as sucking dick!" Miu exclaimed as she cackled.

"Uh... Gonta not sure about that," Gonta said, "Gonta remember Ouma-kun said it not as easy as that. Gonta wished it was easy, but what if not?" Gonta asked.

When did the big guy get so worried like that? It's like he's been second guessing himself these days, more careful when he was more of a free man, or as Miu thought, when he was a gullible, naive idiot.

But it was like Gonta changed in little ways, the act of almost... umm... the VR fiasco, had somehow sobered Gonta into becoming less... idiotic although she wasn't necessarily sure about his naïveté.

'Hmm... and what about this Ore-sama?' Miu thought. She wondered whether she changed. But then again, why did she need to change? She was the gorgeous girl genius after all.

Did Kokichi change too, she wonder.

It had honestly been only two days since the VR fiasco. So many things happened. Or more accurately, little but too heavy things happened.

"I have compiled possible blackmail material against Tsumugi Shirogane from Team Danganronpa. I hope this helps you, Iruma-sama," Motherkuma said.

"Team Danganronpa?" Miu asked, her eyebrows knitted as the bottom of Motherkuma there seems to be a slit that was bursting out a bunch of papers. Miu took them and flipped through them.

It was thick ass but she wanted to know more about this Team Danganronpa before she continued on it. Were they the assholes that thought it was funny to trap 16 useful Ultimates in this heck of a school? Were those sick bastards that had spent what could be loads of money for something as sick as a killing game... and for what?

Hmph, they were just sickos. Whoever they are, she wanted to bust their balls until they come crying to Mama and then some, but since that isn't possible, she can settle with Tsumugi, and starting with the sweet blackmail material in her hands.

But first things first...

"The Team that made this killing game possible. The cult that continued the killing games in the name of the beloved Junko Enoshima after Future Foundation won that day. The cult that appointed Tsumugi Shorogane as the season's mastermind, against this hopeful Gofer Project, Iruma-sama," Motherkuma said.

"Season's mastermind?" Miu asked, that being stuck. A cult making a killing game. Yep, sick bastards alright. She wasn't even surprised, just angry. She looked at Gonta and saw that he looked angry... angry at this Team Danganronpa too.

But something was bothering her. Motherkuma said about the cult, Junko Enoshima, the Future Foundation and the Gofer Project. But weren't they lies. The Flashback Lights are supposed to be lies, so Miu decided not to believe any of that shit no more.

There was no Ultimate Hunt, no funeral, no meteorites, no Gofer Project and definitely no end of the world. She will believe the cult, but that was it.

So why was it keeping to that narrative? Miu made very sure she programmed Motherkuma to answer questions honestly. Not to follow anymore of those BS lies.

... Unless, all of that was the truth? ... No, it can't be... as she remembered the torture she gone through that cult... but come on, how can that... absolutely no way...

Maybe some of them is true? Only the cult she was certain, because crazies would put up with this, but maybe not the cult that Miu had experienced in that memory... fake memory of a motive. Maybe something else...

Hopefully... Anyway, back to Motherkuma...

"Yep, Junko Enoshima the 53rd. Although she's doing a terrible job at it now. The cult has been quite frustrated with her progress now," Motherkuma said.

What the...?

"53rd?! Don't tell me you are saying..." Miu said, because season... 53rd...

"If you are implying about the killing game, then, yes this is the 53rd killing game of Danganronpa!" Motherkuma declared, almost proudly.

"53rd... there 53 killing games?!" Gonta asked in surprise.

"Motherfucking..." Miu said, almost in shock.

OK, how much more info dump are they going to give them?! How much more hidden that would blow their minds off like this? The more she knew about this damn killing game, the less it made damn sense to her.

Miu swore to God... yesterday, she had to deal with Kokichi's BS, although that was her fault in the first place but moving on... which led to finding out he was working behind the scenes to end this killing game and wanting in, about the possibility of a mistrial between Kaede and Rantaro, the possibility of a mastermind, the fact that the Flashback Lights are lies, and nothing could be true.

And then today... oh God, today... the confirmation of a mastermind, the stupid motives, Motherkuma, confirming the mistrial with Kaede and Rantaro, finding out there were killing games before their own, finding out about Rantaro and his damn Survival Perk, the two person rule... and now this?!

Just...

"Why?" Gonta asked, in a quiet yet broken way. The same way that Miu was feeling after all this, "Gonta don't understand. Why this have to happen? Why...?"

Exactly. Why? Because... it doesn't make any sense... it just-

Suddenly, Miu felt a weird shift in Motherkuma, as she could hear a little static and it started... laughing. Miu hit the bear in the wrench irritably for that.

"What's so funny?!" Miu demanded.

"Upupupu. What's so funny, you ask, Iruma-sama..." Motherkuma asked before it answered that question, "Because shouldn't it be obvious? For despair, obviously. And the funny thing was that you people asked for it..."

That's... not even fucking possible. They were kidnapped! Even if Miu's memory was fuzzy about that, even if the motive that inserts memories reminded her about the Gofer Project that they all went 'willingly' in the end, she was sure they were kidnapped! They wouldn't... they couldn't...

"We... we fucking asked for this?! What bullshit are you spewing now?! Who... who would want this killing game where they... die?"

Sure there are suicidal depressed fuckers or utterly sadistic bastards who might get a kick out of killing. But this gorgeous girl genius, hell nah. No fucking thank you.

"Yeah! Gonta would never ask for killing game! No one would ask for this killing game!" Gonta protested.

"Then, why is this happening? If no one wanted a killing game, then this would never happen in the first place. Upupupu," Motherkuma said.

Miu closed her eyes. She needed to fucking think. She wanted to know everything yet... now she was scared to. She had the unfortunate feeling that this might be just like the reveal of Rantaro's video. Another fucking pain in the ass.

And the more Motherkuma talked, the more Miu was feeling that was the case. A part of her didn't even want to know anymore. Is it really important to know all that shit when all that's needed is a way to get out of this fucking killing game?

Even if there was undying curiosity about this killing game and why she fucking wanted it, she felt it was better that she didn't know.

Miu looked toward Gonta. He seemed distressed and confused as well, but he didn't ask anything too. Maybe he had the same thought as Miu. Sometimes, things are better not known.

'It's a lie,' Miu incessantly thought, 'That we asked for this killing game. We were all kidnapped. We aren't sickos.'

She wanted to believe that, but she knew that thanks to her programming, Motherkuma was always speaking the truth about everything asked. And that would mean...

Miu shook her head, 'Forget it. Who cares about that now. Does it fucking matter now when you have more important shit to do? Who cares when you want to get out of the killing game now?'

Yeah... that's right. Who cares? No matter what, she still didn't want to die in this hellhole. She still wanted to get out. She had to take this opportunity as she could. She couldn't let anything distract her out of it.

Yeah... Miu convinced herself. That's right, she told herself. Go with that, OK?

This time, Miu looked around the mastermind's room, knowing that other than Motherkuma, there could be plenty of things that could possibly end the killing game.

Who says they didn't need any back-up plans? Gonta seemed to be moving around the room now that their talk with Motherkuma was over, seeming to look through files, although he looked a little confused. But it seemed that he also didn't mind, looking as if he were distracting himself at the same time.

In a way, it was relatable to Miu. She felt that she needed to distract herself too and at the very least in a productive way.

Miu had no interest in why the killing game happened. Knowing more about it just devastated her more, and it didn't really hold any clues as to how to end it, anyway. So why should it matter?

It doesn't. It might bring more harm, and that was the last thing Miu needed.

Miu looked down at the papers... yeah, blackmail. She could work with that, possible clues and ways to end the killing game. And then, she looked around the room to see the computers...

Miu approached them. Although she was busy with Motherkuma back then, it wasn't that she didn't do a first sweep of this place at the beginning. She fished out a USB she made out of her pocket and plugged it into one of the computers, the rest she saw acted mostly like monitors or connected to security feed and processing it. But there was one computer which seemed active with files and shit. The USB copied all the files and downloaded them inside.

Miu planned to check them all out later, knowing her time would be better spent in getting as much clues inside this room than reviewing shit which could be done later when she had more time.

Miu had her own personal laptop that she made out of the need for entertainment and shit. Unfortunately just because she made a laptop meant that she could get any signal to call for help. But she could still use it to review whatever was inside the computers.

Hmm... now that Miu thought about it, she wondered whether this computer does have a signal. The USB only copies off data of the computer but she can't do any shit if there's like some texting app that Tsumugi used. She might only read the messages but not get the signal.

Miu sat herself down as she started searching the computer and saw there really was some texting group.

But there was only one person Tsumugi seemed to be chatting with, and no one else... Miu decided she wanted to try using the texting app, to connect with the outside world, maybe the police or who the fuck ever to get them out of here.

Unfortunately, Miu knew it to be too optimistic, and she had no such luck. It seemed the texting group was simply limited to only that one person, speaking the fuck ever if she knew.

In due that, she settled with getting out her own computer to check whether everything stored in that computer is truly uploaded.

Once she stuck the USB inside, everything loaded and Miu cackled for her genius as everything really was inside, including the transcripts of text.

Soon enough, Miu got up, and she sauntered over Gonta. They didn't really have much time left, until who knows when that Kokichi distracted Tsumugi but she hoped there was still some time left.

Because... as she saw the number of files stacked by Gonta on one of the numerous tables, Kubs Pads scattered over at another, they really needed loads of time.

***

Kokichi was most definitely providing as much time as he can for Miu and Gonta.

Kokichi and Shuichi have ran as much away from Tsumugi as they possibly could. But she was such a crazed cosplayer that was so determined it wasn't funny.

It was about an hour that they tried to run away from Tsumugi, the safest place both agreed were in their dormitories where they can at least locked themselves away from Tsumugi.

Unfortunately, they were cut off every route by Tsumugi who anticipated such a move. They really tried everything, from the trees, made grappling hooks be damned the safety risks and just trying to knock Tsumugi out.

Tsumugi was really resilient that she managed to evade all that as she cried out, "Do not... underestimate... an otaku... starved for faves...!"

And yes, Tsumugi has gone off the deep end. This just keeps getting worse.

By the end of the hour, they were finally captured by a trip wire that wrapped around their feet and stopped their tracks. They tried to untangle themselves but they were too late when Tsumugi came running towards them.

"Finally!" Tsumugi huffed, "I... have never run this much, but it will be worth it."

Tsumugi took out a pair of scissors and disengaged the trip wire but was now holding it as she was dragging Kokichi and Shuichi with her.

"Don't worry, you guys," Tsumugi reassured, "This will be so much fun, I promise."

Famous words, but when have they ever ended well? Especially in these types of scenarios?

The answer was simple: never.

Unfortunately, there was no escape, except for maybe Himiko who was at the dojo where they passed through but she turned a complete blind eye at this.

Even when Shuichi called out, "Yumeno-san! Help us!"

But Himiko took one look at them, and Tsumugi who was giving a maniac glare as if saying, 'Don't you dare.'

Himiko only shuddered, lowered the brim of her hat and muttered, "Sorry Saihara."

"Huh, why only Saihara-chan?" Kokichi asked out. Himiko glared at Kokichi and muttered, "You know why. I hope you suffer."

"Mean," Kokichi said immediately, pouting but was basically ignored. Welp, he was evil, so many people had definitely wish his suffering along with a variation of those things, a favourite being cutting out all his organs and selling them to the black market. If they could catch him, but that's another time.

Eventually, they reached Tsumugi's Lab as she closed the Lab door, even barring it with a long wooden pole as to lock it since there were no locks on her Lab. To date, the only Labs with locks are Angie's, Kokichi's and Rantaro's because it was simply closed off.

"Now..." Tsumugi said in a low voice, as she rummaged through suits and taking a camera, "It's time for cosplay!"

But unfortunately, Kokichi knew by the time Tsumugi showed off her cosplay and declared a massive photo shoot with the camera and ten extra rolls of it just to get all of it, Kokichi knew it would be a VERY long cosplay.

Tsumugi was dead set into making them cosplay each and every of her cosplays, some which she joined herself and even recreating favourite scenes from her anime as Tsumugi said, "Yes... yes, I can see them! Ahh..."

With so much pride and passion that her plain self seemed to be a lie... but it was more likely that cosplay just brings out another side out of that plain self of hers. After all, no person has only one side, and certain stuff can open up new facets rarely seen by the person.

Either way, the cosplay had become exhausting, and Shuichi also felt that too. And it kept going on and on and on...

"Saihara-chan," Kokichi whispered lowly, "If... I don't make it, once you guys get out, please entrust my will to my evil organisation to mobilise Russia against Shirogane-chan and use the words 'just like Area 51'. They will know what that means. And know that you are free to rule my organisation for me when I die because you are my beloved."

"Ouma-kun..." Shuichi said, exasperated, "You are not going to die. And I can't run your organisation if I'm not joining it."

Kokichi then gave all smiles, "Yep, I knew that."

As the cosplay continued, Kokichi knew that this sacrifice was intended for Miu and Gonta, as it was an opportunity anyway. Because he won't sacrifice for nothing.

During the very first of the killing game, he had suspected each and everyone of his classmates but he can't also help but label them in his mind where they would probably be in his suspect list.

And as time went on, with lesser people... the list just became more and more detailed.

By the end of the third trial, his list varied, with his own opinions although at that time, he still couldn't pin the mastermind, meaning they were a great liar that even Kokichi, self-proclaimed lie detector for only 70% of the time by his own lies, could not detect.

It still shocked him that the mastermind was Tsumugi Shirogane. Because although Kokichi had suspected Tsumugi, it rarely crossed Kokichi's mind.

But that was because he had other things to worry than the mastermind and couldn't help but plan against them. Kiibo, Maki, Kaito... he had thought of the others from time to time, but those three were strangely always there, not exactly the mastermind but people who could potentially foil his plans.

Maki and Kaito strongly disliked Kokichi, the former was hatred, the latter was simply rivalry otherwise Kaito would just straight up ignore Kokichi like Maki instead of chasing Kokichi and giving him lectures for his well-being. Lectures that he had been having throughout the killing game by the likes of Rantaro, Kaede, Kirumi and Kaito. For Panta's sake, leave him alone. He's not a child!

In the end, with such dislike, Kokichi knew they would be troublesome and that made him wary of them. Whether they could be the mastermind, Maki and Kaito were likened more of a pawn to Kokichi although he never exempted the possibility.

Kiibo was just because he was a robot, and although he was more likened to a pawn as well by Kokichi, it did not stop him from being quite leery of Kiibo and he might vent his frustrations out on the robot from time to time, especially because he didn't know the robot's purpose, and despite being dickish. He's a certified asshole, deal with it.

So it was only the pawns that Kokichi had come close to getting. But in chess, they were not the most valuable pieces although one of the most volatile, as they could reach infinite possibilities at the end of the board.

And Kokichi had tried to find the other pieces as he used his own pawns in the hope of finding the mastermind, as he observed.

It was when Kokichi finally found out that Tsumugi was the mastermind that he realised he was biased.

Because Tsumugi indeed was observed by Kokichi, along with the rest of his classmates, but he realised that he observed Tsumugi the least, in comparison to the rest of his more eccentric classmates with personality quirks that interested him, letting him guess whether they would be victim, killer, subordinate or mastermind throughout the game.

But Tsumugi was quite boring, a plain girl that blends in the wallpaper, someone that bored Kokichi so that his attention always flipped to the other people without him knowing it, among the few examples being Shuichi, Angie, Kiibo and Maki due to motives and circumstances.

Boredom easily being his one worst weakness that made him blind enough to rarely notice Tsumugi until the moment he noticed the mistrial. That's what made her a great liar, and Kokichi despised it as much as he respected it as someone who has a burning hatred for lies and a fellow liar. And yes, it's a paradox, deal with it because the world is full of them anyway.

Now he knew very little of Tsumugi which concerned him. Know your enemy and yourself and victory will be assured. He knew himself enough, he wasn't stupid to not know of his own weaknesses, but he didn't know his enemy.

And the one good thing about being kidnapped by Tsumugi was that he was able to test her like how he tested others such as Shuichi, Maki, Miu and Gonta among the few, gauging help and harm.

Not one decision nor action Kokichi Ouma made were without any calculated intention behind it, when needing to get an advantage in life.

As he got into Tsumugi's Lab and heard her ramble, he saw a crazed passion usually hidden behind the plain personality. A passion to all that she loved and fuels her into going above and beyond for it.

As he tried to escape from the window, Tsumugi quickly noticed after a few seconds of coming back to them when the detective himself did not even if he was with Kokichi all the time. That showed some quick wittedness.

And some undying tenacity, when she chased both Shuichi and Kokichi for a whole hour.

Intelligence that shouldn't be underestimated as she blocked out each escape route for both Shuichi and Kokichi each time in an hour and ending with that cleverly devised trip wire.

Persistence as she continued them cosplaying for God only knows how a long time. Although she was generous to let them have breaks with drinks for a while. And listen to her blabber. And get no word edgewise.

Liar, passionate, quick witted, tenacity, intelligence, persistence... all Kokichi picked up in the 'short' time he spent with Tsumugi in comparison to watching her in the entirety of the killing game as long as the others.

All those traits that was useful for someone who masterminded the killing game and underestimating her would be his undoing so he won't.

That was why, he knew right off that there must be a trap in this that Kokichi was yet to be aware of.

A trap that Kokichi knew he should know lest it would destroy him. Because what, other than dealing with her frustrations, would Tsumugi be angling for?

That's why he needed to know more about Tsumugi as he distracted Tsumugi from what Miu and Gonta would be doing. Because despite the trap, he thought that he could still use it to his advantage, in letting Miu and Gonta have a free rein of the mastermind's room and observing Tsumugi.

And the more he hung out with Tsumugi as they were now dressing as Vocaloids with Kokichi as Fukase, Tsumugi as Miku and Shuichi as Len now, he was trying to figure more of the puzzle that was Tsumugi Shirogane.

Because other than personality traits, he should figure out more what made Tsumugi tick. Why would someone like Tsumugi be something like the mastermind...

It's like what would make Kokichi a liar, what make Shuichi a detective, what would make Miu an inventor etc.

There's usually a reason, no matter how simple or special they could be. And reasons usually open up a whole lot more about the person.

"We look so good as these Vocaloids!" Tsumugi squealed, "I'm sure that Momota-kun would make a good Kaito of course. And hmm... maybe Harukawa-san would be Luka? Ah... if only we could find a Rin to match Saihara-kun. Ah well... how about we sing a song? This World is Mine? Ghost Rule? Snobbism?"

"I... I don't know any of these songs," Shuichi said, "Maybe... we could skip that and um... leave now?"

"Leave now?" Tsumugi asked with a raised brow, "But we barely finished the second roll of film. And we didn't even reach to half of the cosplay I planned out for you guys!"

"But it's nearly two hours, Shirogane-san!" Shuichi protested but Tsumugi smiled and rummaged through her other batch of cosplay.

"So? Cosplay knows no time limit. I remember the time that I had the most fun cosplaying with my friends and it was a good use of ten hours..." Tsumugi said wistfully.

"Te- ten hours?!" Shuichi asked in surprise.

"Never underestimate a hardcore cosplayer. We all were preparing for an important con that day and we needed to do it to perfection. 10 hours were reasonable," Tsumugi said.

Shuichi looked like he was close to fainting for that so Kokichi decided to butt in.

"Ah welp, but we are not hardcore losers like you, Shirogane-chan! After all, we have lives to care about, so cut us some slack."

"But this is fun, isn't it?" Tsumugi asked, ignoring Kokichi's insult. If Kokichi remembered right, she had ignored some of his insults toward her too or else simply commented on them. The only time she ever talked back his insults was when he insulted others, like Gonta. Hmm...

"Oh yeah, very fun, Shirogane-chan!" Kokichi lied through his teeth that it was most definitely a lie that Tsumugi did not pick up, "In fact, too bad that we couldn't sing along some Vocaloid songs as well. That would be totes fun."

"Huh, so you listened to Vocaloid too? Fukase totally suits you and I find his version of Ghost Rule quite awesome among other things... although I'm sure your favourite is The World Is Mine? Or is it Liar Dance?"

"BZZT. Wrong," Kokichi said, "Its actually Snobbism. I kinda relate to the song and it kinda fits me, or maybe that's a lie and I don't even know any Vocaloids coz evil supreme leaders spend better time by controlling Canada from the shadows."

"Actually..." Tsumugi said, putting her hand on chin, "Snobbism does suit you in some ways. You are the type to make a scene, huh?"

Kokichi gave a shit eating grin, "Is that what you think of me, Shirogane-san? Then praise accepted~"

"Only you would think that as praise, Ouma-kun," Tsumugi said as she narrowed her eyes at Kokichi and went back to rummaging through her cosplay, holding between a ninja costume and some wizard robes costume.

"That really touches my heart, Shirogane-san," Kokichi said, swooning, as he saw out of the corner of his eye that Shuichi was inching towards the door.

"Not so fast, Saihara-kun," Tsumugi said as she once again quick changed Shuichi into a... wizard.

"You are a wizard, Saihara-chan!" Kokichi declared for the fun of it, and Tsumugi nodded at that, "If you went to Hogwarts, I'm sure you would be in Ravenclaw."

"Huh? Why not Slytherin? I swore I saw that Saihara-chan putting something into your drink. Might intend poisoning you to get out of this hell," Kokichi said, as Shuichi spluttered against that but Kokichi then grinned, saying, "That's a lie. Ravenclaw's too obvious for someone like Saihara-chan that it would only take a second for the Sorting Hat to put him there."

"Yeah, I know right," Tsumugi said cheerfully.

"Then, what would you two be?" Shuichi asked, having given up on escaping, talking instead. To prolong anymore cosplaying torture and that was perfectly reasonable to Kokichi.

"Ouma-kun would be Slytherin no doubt!" Tsumugi said. Shuichi nodded easily, "And you, Shirogane-san?"

"Huh? Me... Oh, I will be in Hufflepuff, because I don't really have any defining personalities of the other Houses to be there, especially considering my plain Jane self."

And as soon as she declared that, she started dressing them up in wizard robes but it didn't stop the conversation.

"I doubt anyone would be a plain Jane for cosplaying for two hours never mind ten," Kokichi said cheerfully.

"Nah, I'm plain as you can ever be," Tsumugi insisted. Interesting, because why insist on that? Kokichi felt he could dig deeper in that area.

"Yeesh, talk about buzzkill," Kokichi said, "Who on earth would insist themselves plain? That's so boring... and you even dress up as interesting characters. How can that be boring?"

"It's because I'm plain that I dress up as those characters, being someone I'm not! To get away from my plain life being someone else. Not everyone can have interesting lives or personalities like you Ouma-kun," Tsumugi said, with a somewhat fierce passion.

"You got me there, Shirogane-chan," Kokichi giggled.

"Ah, but Shirogane-san, even if you say you are plain, it's not like as anyone is so passionate hobby such as cosplay-"

"Even if it's just a passionate hobby, I'm still plain without it. Without it, I'm just a plain person who watches anime, read manga and light novels and write tons of fanfictions about my fave characters instead of having cool cases to solve with a witty catchphrase like 'There's only one truth!' like you Saihara-kun!"

"I don't think anyone would call all you just said exactly plain, Shiro-"

"They call it an otaku, Shirogane-chan," Kokichi said, but there was something sticking to Kokichi; writing fanfictions. Kokichi remembered seeing parts of a script in the mastermind room.

He had found a pick to a possible trap, a way to see what trap exactly Tsumugi might pull.

"And also, fanfictions? Like, what do you even write, Shirogane-chan? Smut?"

Tsumugi blushed, "What... no, no! I write my ships or AUs and that kind of stuff. Definitely no smut. I'm nowhere near Iruma-san."

Fair, so Kokichi continued, "AUs, huh? Guess it would be difficult to write about those type of stories because you would have to think an actual plot, huh?"

"Oh, it's no problem for me," Tsumugi said, "Usually the ideas come easily where I could see how the protagonist would play in the story and the other characters that would play for or against them."

Kokichi remembered the note about himself and Miu. Characters, huh? Were they treated as characters?

Is this what makes Tsumugi the mastermind? Because this easily can become a story.

Because ideas came easily for Tsumugi in plotting them against or for each other. With heroes like Shuichi and Kaito. And villains like Kokichi.

A plausible theory and he decided to pursue it, because if Tsumugi was a writer and she was stuck in a story-

"But what happens if you are stuck?" Kokichi asked, "Stuck with the plot where nothing interesting can happen, or maybe there's a wrench in the story."

"Easy," Tsumugi said easily to into the conversation to notice where Kokichi might be actually going with this or she didn't care, "I would have to add some plot device into the story that would move it along. And if the story has a wrench in it, I guess you would have to fix it realistically, won't you?"

Plot device, like motives. But the wrench, fixing it realistically. Like the wrench that is Kokichi and Miu. Tsumugi couldn't stand something like that, as evidenced by that note that said 'Eliminate'. They would be killed one way or another, but...

Was it even possible for the two to be killed in a short time? And considering last time with a double kill, another... seemed boring so unlikely, Kokichi thought. So, one might be killed, but how about the other?

If Tsumugi would want to fix the wrench in her story, and probably knowing KGB (maybe except Gonta because he didn't see anything like that in her notes but still) were against her, only able to off one at the moment, what would she do with the other...-?

Suddenly, Kokichi jumped up in shock, the only thought in his head, 'How devious, Shirogane-chan.' Because he had a feeling what Tsumugi had actually planned, and if that was the case...

"Ou- Ouma-kun?!" Shuichi asked in shock as Kokichi decided to play it off, "I have just been thinking. You should have dressed up as ninjas, Shirogane-chan!"

"Huh, why?" Tsumugi asked with narrowed eyes, "Is it that you wanted to see me as a kunoichi?"

"Maybe..." Kokichi singsonged, "Or maybe it's coz I can do this! Smoke bomb!"

From underneath the robe, he took out a grenade, held his breath in and threw it right in front of Tsumugi, which let out sleeping gas that no one anticipated.

Shuichi was out like the light quickly and so as Tsumugi who could only widen her eyes in shock asking, "How?" before she passed out as well.

Indeed because how would Kokichi have something like that grenade on him out of nowhere nowhere to actually keep such a thing considering Tsumugi always quick changed him and would check for any possible items?

It's not sanitary but the one thing Tsumugi won't change nor check, was underwear.

Soon enough, Kokichi was running out, because although he knew that Tsumugi might level a move against him, he had no idea...

There was a reason why Tsumugi kidnapped Kokichi, and although Kokichi thought he could use it to gather more info about Tsumugi and stall her, Tsumugi used it to stall him as well, a purpose he unfortunately didn't think because it was such a risk to even let them in the mastermind's room with such truck load of information that could upend the killing game, that he would have not even thought she would even let them and somehow twist it to her advantage.

But she did. He was sure about that, even if he wasn't sure how.

Because in separating them, if killing was not an option, why not incapacitate the other? And with the numerous ways, despite how much information possible to get in that room, if a trap was set...

He hoped he can get there in time. He didn't want his subordinates to be out of commission, you know?

***

Gonta had no idea that there were plenty of things in the room. So many files, and tablets, and monitors. Gonta had indeed been flipping through many files, in order to find anything useful when Miu sauntered towards him.

"Hey, did you find anything useful?" Miu asked, putting her bag against one of the tables as she picked one of the files that Gonta placed on the table.

"Gonta found lots of things, Iruma-san, but Gonta don't understand some, so Gonta thought Iruma-san can help Gonta with that," Gonta said.

Miu flipped through the files with a grimace. Unfortunately for Gonta, some files were filled with quite complicated sentences that threw Gonta out of the loop, having only mastered the basics of writing and reading, although he understood complicated entomologist terms in due to his passion for it, after years of forest home where all he had to do was talk, not read and write.

So of course, it was kind of impossible for Gonta to read anything too complicated like thick mystery novels or textbooks that were not related to entomology. Although he was still learning, but the killing game put on hold of that and well, here he was.

"But I kinda expected for there to be more files over here. You can understand the rest?" Miu asked.

"Oh, some easy," Gonta said cheerfully, "Like some files that have profiles, Iruma-san, about Ultimates, including us. And about our activities."

That stopped Miu from her reading as she looked up, "Activities? You mean they are stalking us?"

"... Yes," Gonta said, because unfortunately, that was true. He saw his own, he saw how it detailed what he did, who he talked until a certain date that finalised, 'Sent into the Gofer Project. Approved.'

But Gofer Project... wasn't that a lie?

The KGB had collectively agreed that the Flashback Lights were lies. The huge problem with that is that it's impossible to know what to believe in anymore.

But what if it was true? Then, what else was true and what are really lies?

Gonta's brain shut down that question, because his gut, which was usually right when he was able to think straight, felt that he did not want to go there. He felt it would be similar to seeing the end of the world. Something that won't really help them and instead harm.

Not only that, Gonta knew simply of their purpose here; to find any clues in getting out of the game.

But instead of clues they were given more devastating facts about the killing game, as Team Danganronpa and this being the 53rd season...

53 killing games. How can people let 53 killing games happen? How many deaths does that mean? Why would anyone allow that many deaths?

He really didn't understand, but maybe he was never supposed to.

What was important... Gonta knew, was not the lies. Not the Gofer Project, not despair, nothing like that. What was important was that there was something here that will get them out.

Like something... that could get them pass the End Wall, another secret passageway other than the Death Road of Despair to get out of here, someone that could help them get out of here.

Something.

But is it that easy, Gonta remembered Kokichi saying. But then again, what else could they do?

But sometimes, when he looked at Miu and Kokichi, it always seemed like they had other ways to possibly get out of the killing game. Even if Gonta wasn't sure what they were.

But Miu had her blackmail. Gonta doesn't approve, but at the same time, he knew he couldn't stop it. And it doesn't involve someone dead. In the end that was all that mattered.

Too bad he wasn't sure about Kokichi. Gonta wished he knew. Otherwise, he could stop whatever death might happen because if it.

In the end, Gonta wanted no more deaths, so he tried his utmost best to make sure that no longer happened. A promise, a promise Gonta had renewed vigour and resolve to push forward.

Doing the bug surveillance, hanging out with the others, joining the KGB, that was for the sake of it.

As for escaping or even ending the killing game, Gonta wished he knew what he could do. He was not like Miu and Kokichi who were smart enough to have plans and ideas that could get them out.

Gonta knew he should try to think of ideas getting out of the killing game but short of fighting the Exisals which was vetoed immediately, he wasn't sure.

That's why Gonta was glad to be in the KGB, because he was sure that Miu and Kokichi will eventually have some plan that will get them all out of here.

And all Gonta could do was make sure that the plans of theirs wouldn't kill them and he would do all he can to help.

Gonta wished he could have some plan save for setting surveillance in his classmates and making sure no one dies. But...

One of the good things about being in this room was maybe... maybe, he will get ideas. Maybe he will get some idea that would help them escape... end the killing game if he found some sort of clue, if it was something he could do, if all else fails.

If Gonta was lucky, anyway, in the rustle of papers as the duo kept looking through the files, those Gonta failed to understand he put aside for Miu to read.

"Nothing fucking important..." Miu muttered, and Gonta was nearly inclined to agree.

If they were Shuichi, a detective who wanted to crack at the mystery of the killing game, then these files might be important. But Gonta and Miu were trying to find clues to get out of the killing game.

So far the files consisted of profiles of many Ultimates and their activities until a certain point where they ended with a seal of 'Approved' or 'Rejected'. There were only 16 files that were listed 'Approved' and they were the 16 that participated in this very killing game.

There were also files that held reports of the killing game progress, apparently backups of the computer crashed and they told with gory detail and muted narrative of the deaths and executions that happened.

There were files of different motives, motives that were used and unused, choosing which were best suited for the killing game situation also with seals of 'Approved' or 'Rejected'.

It was sickening to see the rejected motives that came by, such as something called the NG codes that meant the person couldn't do a forbidden action or be killed on the spot and after a few days without any kill, lethal poison will be injected in everyone.

So far it was really nothing important, until Miu took a file from the shelf and gasped.

"What is it, Iruma-san?" Gonta asked, looking up from a motive file about locked doors of dorm rooms and the rest of the school that alternate each day. He was halfway through but what was more important was the Miu now reading the file with wide eyes, a disgusted look before she finally threw the file smack down on a table, as she cried out, "What the hell?!"

Gonta picked up the file and once he opened it, he perfectly understood Miu's reaction.

6 cases, notes of scribbles, crossing outs and question marks in messy handwriting with thoughts and ideas but what was on the header was in neat clean block writing.

Predictions. And predictions they were as Gonta flipped to see a lot of victims? Killers? With all his classmates like some kind of game of guess. As he flipped through them, h saw with sadness and disgust that it predicted Kaede's kill with Rantaro, about the time limit, Kirumi with Ryoma, the will to live and die, Kiyo with either Angie, Tenko or Himiko, concerning his problem.

As he flipped through, he was surprised still to see that there were more predictions, and with absolute anger was Miu and Kokichi, something to do with betrayal. After that, of Kaito, Shuichi and Maki, sickness and love... and finally, Kiibo and either Shuichi/Himiko/Tenko/Maki/Angie/Gonta, anyone who would have survived by then about the hope and despair that Gonta really could not understand. They were predictions, but still...

When he looked up again, he saw Miu demanding out of Motherkuma.

"How on earth would you know that I would betray Ouma? These predictions, and then the ones after, how on earth can you predict something like that?!"

Gonta wanted to know that too and looked up at Motherkuma who seemed to give off a small whirring sound before it said:

"Very simple, Iruma-sama but I'm sure that an explanation from me wouldn't be enough. So why don't you watch the video from that tablet over there?"

Motherkuma's eyes swiveled toward one of the tables that laid a tablet. Miu picked it up immediately. They had noticed that some tablets have laid here and there over the tables, but they didn't know what to make of them.

The tablets were after they made it through the files, but if this one would answer about those predictions, how could they predict such a thing, how three of those cases ended up right, how the fourth and so on might be so close to what might happen... like Miu and Kokichi, if not for the fiasco...

Without any hesitation as Gonta approached Miu, Miu turned on the tablet. It fizzled out to a video message where they saw Tsumugi Shirogane among people of black suits... their kidnappers.

"Congratulations for being chosen as the mastermind among the cast. Everything is ready and accounted for, correct, Shirogane-san?"

"Yes, sir!" Tsumugi said excitedly, "I'm glad that I'm chosen for this killing game. You will not be disappointed!"

"Shirogane-san..." Gonta said sadly. How could she be happy to do this? How could she be happy to collaborate with her kidnappers in this sickening killing game? And what did they mean by chosen among the cast? Then Gonta remembered what Motherkuma saying about asking for this, but... no...

"Well then, it will go with the standard procedures as usual. Everyone's memories will be erased except for yours. The story is yours to craft, just make sure you make it long and despairing for us. After the last one, you have a high bar to reach."

"I understand. I won't disappoint! Just like Junko Enoshima, this game will be so despairful that you rather wish you were dead!" Tsumugi declared, to the smiles of those people.

"What a bunch of..." Miu muttered under her breath, "A story... those predictions..."

Those predictions were part of a story. That was what the killing game was about, they said.

Gonta just didn't understand that. It was not as cut and dry as expected. But does that mean the deaths before... no matter what was done, they would have happened? Nothing could be done about it?

No... Gonta didn't want to think like that. After all, Miu and Kokichi... they are alive, aren't they? Doesn't that mean something?

"Good. Now that this is happening, we have to tell you the rules of what will go on... standard procedure, you get the drill."

"I'm all ears," Tsumugi said.

"Firstly, there must be at least 5 trials, and the 6th will be the finale. We don't care what happens, whether you go with a mastermind reveal or a kill, but at the very least 5 and then the 6th is to your discretion."

"Secondly, the deaths that happen between trials must happen in at least a week. If, for some reason, a motive fails, you have 5 days to fix it and give a death. After those time limits, you and the rest of the cast will die as a failure and a new killing game will be set. We cannot tolerate failure, after all and it will be scrapped right away."

"Thirdly, if you are found out as the mastermind and ousted to the whole cast, you will be killed as a failure of a mastermind and a new mastermind will be chosen among the cast. Exactly like how you were chosen. So if you want to keep your position and someone finds out, you will do well to find a way to keep their silence."

"Fourth, adhere to the killing game formula, such as the third case double kill, and make sure whatever you do, that the game won't be found out so easily. Make sure the cast doesn't know about the killing game and deceive them in anyway you can, and if they do, prolong it as you can, until the 6th trial for the best shock."

"Most of these, if you fail, you and maybe the rest of the cast will die. After all, we want perfection and if perfection is not met, get ready to meet the Ultimate Despair... before you can make that one for yourself."

"I understand," Tsumugi said.

And the video clip went off, as Miu threw the tablet down, Gonta's mouth went agape and fear suddenly crawled within both of them.

"What... the... fuck?" Miu asked.

"Ah, you still don't get it, Iruma-sama?" Motherkuma asked, "Those predictions were part of the story of this killing game. Predictions, of what you or anyone else will do depending on your character and motive and implanting it into the story."

Story... predictions... character and motive... Gonta did not understand that one at all. How a killing game can be like that? Why it would be like that? To be watched by those people? Because they wanted it?

Gonta could not understand such cruelty and evil at all, so he set it aside because...

"Oh fucking forget that shit! What did they mean we die if a murder does not occur in 5 days?!" Miu demanded.

"Simple," Motherkuma said simply, "After all, this killing game's objective is for you to kill, yes? But what happens if you don't kill for a long time? Not only will that defeat the purpose of this killing game, it will only make you and the rest complacent and the possibility of any of you killing zero. Which will be a failure that will not be tolerated."

"But... but..." Gonta mumbled, tears in his eyes.

"This is a message from the mastermind," Motherkuma continued.

"The mastermind?!" Gonta asked in shock.

"If you don't want to die, let a murder happen. The motive is already in place. If you do not disrupt it like the last time, then, a murder will happen and the rest of you can live to see another day."

"Live to see another day..." Miu mumbled, "If... if I let this happen, will my ass be out of the hot seat?"

"Iruma-san!" Gonta exclaimed in shock, at the very idea that Miu would even consider it. Miu rounded at Gonta, her face pinched with worry and fear.

"Well, there's no risking that it's a lie because we would all die if it's true, then, why don't we just save ourselves? Who cares about the others if it means our asses on the line? What is one or two people than the whole lot of us?"

"But... but Gonta want to save everyone!" Gonta said.

At that, Miu looked at him pityingly, "You can't save everyone. That is impossible."

"You can't save everyone," Maki said.

In that Flashback Light, about the Gofer Project when he had to fight Maki. The fact that he cannot save everyone, that it is...

"And it's also... we don't even have a plan," Miu said devastatingly, "We might need more time than a few days. And we also cannot expose the mastermind. It wouldn't change squat..." Miu said bitterly, putting her hands on her hips.

Gonta remembered one of the rules, that if the mastermind was exposed, they would be simply killed so another will be chosen and the killing game will be continued.

He was sure no one would want to be the mastermind, but... chosen like how Tsumugi was chosen. Gonta's gut had a bad feeling about that.

"So that's what that little fucker meant by not easy. If we can't blackmail the mastermind, if we can't find a way out of here because of the big ass glass dome and the Death Road of Despair is out... what do we do?"

'What do we do...?' Gonta thought and he said:

"There... there always way to escape killing game. We found out so much, maybe have clue..." Gonta said but Miu huffed.

"I know that. But I don't want to die. You don't fucking understand. I'm in the chopping block. Someone's going to come and get me. And if nothing happens in a few days, we are all going to die! I know you are optimistic, but can you seriously think of anyway to get out of this killing game in a few days?!" Miu asked, vulnerability shown before she masked it.

Gonta felt... broken at that. It felt like the time limit at the very first of the killing game. Who knew that there had always been a time limit and they had always adhered to it? But now...

"All the mastermind ask of you is to give up. If you don't do anything, the motive will proceed smoothly and you will live to see another day. Give up and the mastermind will make sure both of you will become survivors."

"But... but what about others?" Gonta asked.

"Iruma-sama is right," Motherkuma said smoothly, "You can't save everyone but you can save more people if you do this, right? Do you want to save more people or less?"

Again... with that...

Then, what were they doing anything for? They still had a few days, right? They could do something...

"Maybe in a few days you could do something. But do you think the mastermind will let you? Did you really think it would be that easy? Do you think you would have a plan that will actually succeed that simple? The story must go on, don't let everyone die because of foolish naïveté. Take this offer for what it's worth, live longer... let yourself live as a survivor..."

But Gonta didn't want everyone to die. If they couldn't do anything in a few days, if everyone died...

Gonta wanted to save everyone. He knew what to do...

"How about... how about wait until those few days and then... Gonta... Gonta will die," Gonta tentatively offered.

"What the fuck?!" Miu asked, edging away from Gonta but Gonta felt resolution.

Gonta wanted to save everyone. Gonta didn't want anyone to die. And because of this impossible situation... at least let him...

"Oh, a suicide. That seems plausible. It's fine as long as a death happens. The mastermind doesn't really care. But a few days you say... do you really expect that you could actually find a way out of the killing game without death? You shouldn't even try, you should take this offer before-"

"Over my dead body, bitchkuma!"

A voice that was neither of theirs interrupted and they saw it was Kokichi in a robe.

"I heard fucking everything," Kokichi hissed, "If this is what Shirogane-chan planned, I give 6/10 for being cliche yet effective, but..."

Kokichi now stormed over Gonta and before anyone could process it, he jabbed his finger at Gonta, "What the fuck do you think of killing yourself for? I don't want a suicidal subordinate in my hands. If someone has to die, at least let it be your leader. I can't let my subordinates take the fall."

"But... but Gonta don't want Ouma-kun to die! Gonta don't want anyone to die!" Gonta exclaimed.

"Of course I'm not going to die. I lied, because why not save everyone instead?" Kokichi asked, smiling.

"Save... everyone..." Gonta said. Words that Gonta really wanted, words that Gonta wished.

"Because we are not going to fall for Motherkuma's trap that easily!" Kokichi declared, and although Gonta didn't understand what Kokichi was talking about, he suddenly felt a little hope in his heart.

There seemed to be a lot of things to still process about, but still... there might be obstacles.

But seeing Kokichi's determination, and despite everything Gonta knew so far... whose to say they cannot pass those obstacles, no matter what others say.

At least, he hoped... and another game changer has progressed. To be continued...

Chapter Text

4 days left...

"What the hell are you doing here?!" Motherkuma finally shouted.

"Yeah, and what the fuck are you wearing, you shota loli? Is that a fucking dress, I didn't know you were a femboy!" Miu exclaimed despite the situation that has been happening. Kokichi's sudden appearance and speech to Gonta was a bolt out of blue, so Miu practically said the first thing that popped out her brain.

"This is a magnificent wizard's robe, for your information. And it's much better than your steampunk fad right over there, you bitch," Kokichi countered.

"Steam- steampunk fad?!" Miu blustered as an insult was already at the tip of her tongue for insulting her great fashion sense because she wasn't letting that lie down, "Sa- says the person who wears a... a straight jacket for fashion, like a madman!"

"So? I wear a straight jacket because I'm a madman, duh, Iruma-chan," Kokichi said, and Miu was shocked Kokichi straight up admitted that he was a madman.

"He- hey! Don't ignore me!" Motherkuma shouted.

Everyone now paid attention to Motherkuma who said, "You are not supposed to be even here. I thought the mastermind was supposed to distract you!"

"Oh, yes, she did," Kokichi nodded at those words, "But then she messed up, and I had to knock her out with some sleeping gas and locked her in with bubblegum, so she won't be here awhile."

There were many questions to that very statement but after everything that happened the best thing to do was...

"Why the fuck are you here?" Miu asked. He was after all supposed to distract Tsumugi. Being here...

"To stop whatever ridiculous trap that Shirogane-chan set up in my absence," Kokichi said dryly, "But seriously, a death threat? You couldn't be more original than that?" Directed to Motherkuma who said nothing in it's defense because Miu spoke up.

"This is no time to be bitching about originality of all things. If you heard 'everything'," Miu made quotation marks because she seriously doubted that, as he's a liar, "How can you be so calm? We are all going to die in a few days if no fucking murder has occurred. Those people seem dead serious about that and if they kidnapped us, what if...?"

"Aww man... were you guys seriously about to fall into that trap so easily?" Kokichi pouted, "No wonder Shirogane-chan had to stall me or I would have cut whatever went down in seconds. Who the hell even responds to death threats anyway? I can and will bitch slap you guys if you continue being this stupid, you know?"

"Gonta... Gonta don't understand," Gonta said, "Did Ouma-kun know this going to happen? Does Ouma-kun have plan now for this?"

Because after all, Kokichi did just barge in here without explanation, proclaimed he heard everything and talked down Gonta's suicidal speech ending with proclaiming Motherkuma's trap. So, yeah... don't blame their confusion. She was sure even the people watching, if there were 'coz they had vacummed the place free of bugs, would be pretty confused as well.

Kokichi knew this, so he resigned himself to give a short explanation.

About the fact that Tsumugi might have set a trap, deduced that it would have to do with Miu and Gonta here without him, and decided he had to interfere.

So he had rushed here, at least heard the part of Motherkuma's deal with them, and heard Gonta offering to kill himself for the 5 day time limit, although since the kill fail happened just yesterday, and counting today... they had four.

And when he heard the killing self part, he totally had to set that straight because damn it, it's too early to give up, and for the love of God, don't die a meaningless death because no one wants anyone to die when it is still possible to save everyone...

"Save everyone?!" Miu asked, "How exactly? And how could you... of all people say something like that? You cannot be that idiotic can you?"

Out of everyone in this killing game, next to this gorgeous girl genius, Kokichi was actually quite smart on his own right, something Miu acknowledged ever since the blueprints while the rest were idiots, something she acknowledged after always hearing their optimistic bullshit of no killing despite the death rate and Kokichi the only one quite aware of it when he always rudely reminded them about it.

He could not be an idiot enough about the fact that in front of a death threat that it was even possible to save everyone in just a few days.

"Oh, I'm insulted that you would insult my intelligence like that, but surprisingly the whore bitch is right. Because I choose to be an idiot so I can be extremely petty against Motherkuma whose baiting you guys into stupidity. As your supreme leader of evil, I can't allow you to do that. Nuh uh, no way, not in a million years," Kokichi said.

Miu... didn't even know what to make of that statement. Neither did Gonta, who was looking at Kokichi in confusion before he grinned slyly at Motherkuma.

"Nah, that was lie. I'm no idiot. I only said we could save everyone because that's what you are worried the most, aren't you? Because you are worried that your trap won't work," Kokichi said.

Trap... Kokichi did say that the death threat was a trap for Miu and Gonta, but it was a real threat. Miu didn't doubt it wasn't real. Those sickos who stuck them in this killing game that let them die like flies here are capable of anything.

"And what makes you say that? Do you really want to die that badly? Defying this killing game will only lead to that!" Motherkuma declared.

"So as letting it be," Kokichi said simply, "But I won't let that happen. I will not make the same mistake like last time."

Mistake... the word latched onto Miu... what mista-?

A flash of snow, a rooftop and a confrontation and Miu remembered. That whole fiasco were mistakes galore for them, but what, specifically, did Kokichi mean by a mistake because there were so many...

And what did that have to do with this?

There seems to be a glaring contest between Motherkuma and Kokichi, before Miu realised something. So she approached Motherkuma, with a wrench in her hand. Immediately, Motherkuma screech.

"What are you doing? With that wrench in your hand!" And that was enough answer for Miu.

"Fucking hell... when did my programming fail?" Miu asked, now glaring at Motherkuma who seemed to be recollecting something and finally "Eep!" in realization.

"Programming?" Kokichi tilted his head, and when Miu explained, Kokichi actually grinned.

"That's actually a pretty good idea, but... too bad it seemed that Shirogane-chan seemed to figure out that it would be something you would do, so somehow she managed to block your attempts and Motherkuma was just bluffing with you," Kokichi said.

Miu's mouth dropped open as she said, "How can a dumb bitch like her against my gorgeous genius-"

"Well why are you surprised? In fact, I should have realised that Shirogane-chan wouldn't take this lying down after our first visit and make moves against us," Kokichi said.

"First visit... what could have Plain Jane-?"

"Well, since the bear's out of the bag, I might as well tell you. If only I can just rub it in your incompetent faces," Motherkuma said.

"Of course the mastermind would have noticed some tampering like getting my wires tied and not making more Monokumas and a lot more 'upgrades' on me. Even if you programmed me not to say who was down here the first time, it was so obvious who could even tinker with me..."

Oh... shit. Well, sue Miu... how was she supposed to know that bullshit? And then, Kokichi piped up.

"So because Shirogane-chan knew that, she used it to her advantage to separate me and the others, let you feed them lies and finally show them the death threat so they will let the game continue as you please. Truly, 6/10. So cliche yet so effective," Kokichi sighed.

"And how the fuck are you still so calm about it?! It doesn't matter if it's cliche, or a trap, because-" Miu started saying but was cut off by Kokichi.

"Because that means they are desperate, and that falling for it of all times mean they will win," Kokichi lazily smiled as he focused on Motherkuma, "So close... did you really think I would let you manipulate anyone else at this late a stage?"

"But... but that changes nothing!" Miu protested, "It does not change that in a few days we will die in a few days if a murder does not happen!"

"In a few days, Iruma-chan. Are you really giving up without at least trying? Accepting the offer right off the bat. Tsk, tsk, how stupid of you, Iruma-chan," Kokichi said.

"Stupid... stupid?!" Miu hissed, "What is so stupid about not wanting to die?"

She didn't care whether these people here are self sacrificing idiots, but what the fuck is so good about dying? Why shouldn't Miu try to live, live as long as she could. To not die before she made a mark on the world. To not die as there was still so much she wanted done.

To not die so she would not meet the permanent darkness that Miu feared because she already experienced a temporary darkness that lost her months of life that could be spent.

Miu wanted to live, so why is it so stupid to prolong that, no matter what?

Miu wanted to escape, but Miu also wanted to live. And the will to live exceeds everything else, because at least she could still do something. At least she didn't have to face that darkness again, her coma...

At least she won't lose any more moments that she could have spent living, instead of being behind...

"So you really don't want to try?" Kokichi asked, his voice soft, as he continued, "You don't think you can make any difference in the next few days."

"Well, if I could, then I would! But nothing will work," Miu hissed, and in that admittance, her posture slouched, "Here, watch this."

Miu handed Kokichi the tablet that showed off the death threat and as it was finished, all Miu could see was a blank face but it didn't stop her from letting everything out.

"We cannot blackmail the mastermind or else she would be killed and one of us would become the mastermind, and the killing game will fucking continue! If any of those rules are not followed, we will die. And we are running out of time... how... how are we supposed to survive that?" Miu asked.

"Oh, it will be all too easy," Kokichi drawled out, "But first, shut Motherkuma down. The last thing we need is for it to bitch our plans to the mastermind and make a move against us."

"Wha-? You cannot shut down this glorious piece of-" Motherkuma started protesting but Miu was already on it, as she started fiddling its wire and said, "Got it."

"Hey, wait... bzzt..." Motherkuma said, as it shut down as easily as that.

"It's temporarily shut down for now," Miu said and now with her hands on her hips, she continued, "So do you really have a plan or are you just shitting with me?"

"Yeah, Gonta want to know too," Gonta said, "Gonta want to save everyone. How do that, Ouma-kun?"

Kokichi grinned mischievously, as he said, "Oh... be amazed, because your mind will be blown away. For... This is the greatest plan~" The last part said in a singsong voice as he smiled and laid it all out. Once Miu heard it, it was so ridiculous that it cannot be put to words except...

"The fuck is all that? That plan is like literally letting someone crash a government plane at you! You really are shitting me!" Miu exclaimed.

Miu didn't even know how to explain the absurdity of the plan just that she completely cannot. Was he even being serious? Even Gonta looked doubtful.

"Ah... Ouma-kun, are you lying about that plan?" Gonta asked.

"Ah... you big meanies. I actually decided to trust you and reveal my biggest plan to you and this is how you react? Waaah!" Kokichi cried, which Miu rolled her eyes to and Gonta became steadily flustered.

"Quit the crocodile tears, they are just annoying already," Miu said.

"Oh fine, but that plan is more an endgame when we are really stuck than anything, but since we still have a few days left, there are about 4 things we need to deal that could help us greatly in this game," Kokichi said, holding out his hand with 4 fingers up.

"Firstly, Monokuma. That bear is getting on all our nerves anyway and it's basically the mascot of this game with announcing motives and heading the trials. That thing's gotta go," Kokichi said, putting one finger down. And Miu agreed with that one. Monokuma is the parasite to all classmates in this killing game, them never having respect for that damn bear and hating it as numero uno enemy.

"Secondly, the final two Monokubs. Them piloting the Exisals and being the things that keep us from doing anything serious is off putting. We need to get rid of them so the Exisals are no longer a threat," Kokichi said, putting another finger down. Miu can agree with that and the Monokubs are quite annoying, well... except for the red ninja one when he calls her mommy. Why not? It just gives her such a warm fuzzy feeling.

"Thirdly, the Exisals. Once the Monokubs are out, we can use the Exisals as we please. And that is all the game changer we need," Kokichi said, and Miu could just imagine what she could do with them. That only left one finger.

"And finally, Motherkuma. Hopefully, the reprogramming to not give birth to anymore Monokumas stuck, but once again, fiddling with Motherkuma would give quite an advantage. But we have to be careful about it, because apparently, the mastermind seems to have found out about our tampering more than we anticipated," Kokichi finally said.

After a brief bout of silence, Gonta slowly nodded, "Gonta thinks Gonta gets it. If dealing with all four of them, nothing stop us from escaping? Maybe we can destroy End Wall or ask how to get out of here?"

But there was one problem with that...

"Do you really think we can do all that, on top of everything else happening in just four days, three because this day is soon ending?" Miu asked, her eyes narrowed at the relaxed form of Kokichi.

"Like I said, if not, we proceed with Mr. Endgame I told you about," Kokichi said smoothly.

"I thought you were kidding," Miu said, narrowing her eyes.

Kokichi shrugged, "Only some of it. But that depends on what will happen by then. Once the time limit is reached, we would have no choice but to do something crazy. Because sometimes crazy is what you need to end something as crazy as this."

"That sounds like fighting fire with fire. Let's hope it never happens," Miu said, and Gonta nodded in agreement.

Still... Miu felt Kokichi had a few points right. Those four things... game changers. Her own advantages.

"If you guys say so. But are you guys done with this room or what?" Kokichi asked.

"Ah... shit... the tablets," Miu said, because they only went through the files.

"We still have time. Let's get to it," Kokichi said and they did.

Time, what a funny word now, when Miu felt it constricting. Yet... time, it wasn't that they didn't have that little.

'Are you really going to give up without trying?' Miu thought about what Kokichi said because she decided to straight up take the offer.

It wasn't that she didn't want to try. It was just that despite everything that happened, her life comes first. So that she could never meet that darkness again.

But as long as there's still a way to get the light that is life prolonged, as Kokichi tried...

Fine, she will try too. But Miu hoped he was right.

Or else she will definitely take the offer. Because she really didn't want to die... but what's wrong with that? Who likes that darkness anyway?

But... with everything that happened, as she looked at Kokichi and Gonta and remembered everything, especially that snowy rooftop.

'Please prove me wrong,' Miu thought. Prove her wrong that she didn't need to take that offer. Didn't have to be cornered enough to make her own mistake like last time...

***

They finally swept out the mastermind's room as they went into their headquarters aka Kokichi's room.

"Since when was my room headquarters?" Kokichi asked, but he opened the door for them anyway.

"Since you said so," Miu said.

"Huh? Did I?" Kokichi asked, batting his eyes. Miu rolled her eyes but commented nothing. Gonta simply followed inside.

The day was ending pretty fast, and with that so as another day down. Starting tomorrow, they would only have three days before Armageddon if they didn't do something.

Kokichi had been replaying the rules in his head and what's been happening throughout the killing game. Obviously, they were not ideal.

Unfortunately, the only conclusion he could reach if they were really short of time was really Mr. Endgame that both Miu and Gonta easily dismissed. Because among the rules, a trial needed to be held by then to prolong their lives.

There was no way to wiggle out of that one, but at the very least they still had a few days before they had to go there. Either way, it could be taken to their advantage depending on their cards.

But now all they could do was get down to all they have gathered in the mastermind's room, as Miu started booting the computer where she copied any encrypted data from the mastermind's room into her own, including the tablets.

All those files and tablets, a goldmine of info it was, but they still cannot bring them back here in due to the fact that it would be suspicious to have that stuff laying around here just in case and although the mastermind would know by now, sometimes it's simply best to follow a procedure.

So other than booting any important information from the tablets via that USB whether it be videos or some kind of schematics of different things throughout the killing game, they had also taken pictures of the files they thought important. Using a digital camera made by Miu because it would be a waste to wait for processed film from those disposable cameras.

Thus, Kokichi and Gonta decided to discuss about all that they found in the mastermind room, Kokichi with a notebook in hand as they started thinking about plans, sometimes joined in by Miu.

Despite them having individual interests, although not sure about Gonta, as long as they are the KGB, they can use this rare teamwork to make a plan that soloing won't cut for. Because in the end, they have the same goal and it was the fact that they were on the same level within information and deceit that working together despite their distrust after the VR fiasco might actually bring more help than harm.

Still... he can't believe those turn of events, as he continued discussing plans with Gonta and Miu, because when he first heard of this killing game, he never thought he would be able to trust let alone open up this much to anyone here. Yet he did, in planning together, in telling Miu and Gonta about that endgame back at the mastermind's room among one of his many improvised plans just to convince them not to fall for that trap.

And when looking at them, he still wasn't sure whether they thought about it or not, but he hoped they were stronger than that but he will still have to keep an eye on them. But the fact that he actually hoped something out of them, a blind belief even if a little, spoke a lot about the changes wrought out to Kokichi in just two days.

Really, when did he become so soft? It disgusted him yet wasn't completely out of the blue as he does work as a team way back when with his organization, not with rando strangers he met about a week, two? Either way, by now, it can no longer be helped, as it seemed the universe which plotted against him for refusing to cooperate so far and threw him this. And made it hard to disengage...

Because those two were too stubborn, persistent, knew too much and always there when Kokichi tried to run away, entangling him inside their teamwork and cooperation. But Kokichi had to admit their brand of teamwork wasn't as bad as the others because the universe also seems to convince him that there is a way to cooperate that suited Kokichi. Because unlike the kumbaya, hand holding friends forever and surely no one will kill even when four murders happened so far that Kokichi hated and avoided like the plague, Miu and Gonta somehow introduced him to some teamwork and cooperation that distrusted the others so they will not kill as they keep an eye on each other, help to make sure they were alright, and solving mysteries of this killing game because they have to. It was the kind of teamwork that was somewhat perfect in this killing game, but maybe it was because it wasn't really teamwork.. but a partnership.

So all he could do now, as an extremely flexible improviser in quite intangible situations such as this killing game, was to take this teamwork to his advantage and use it to open paths that simply soloing couldn't do...

That's all there is to it, ever since he agreed to the KGB and that he was sticking to it longer than anticipated means nothing, as long as it's useful, as long as Kokichi hadn't lost in this game.

But so far as they threw out plans, decided to go with Kokichi's angle of getting rid of the Four (yes, that's what they are calling Monokuma, Monkubs, the Exisals and Motherkuma) or maybe even the End Wall and the Death Road of Despair that Kokichi vetoed immediately due to the end of the world there and thus wholeheartedly agreed not to breach there through shocked gasps and a stringent of curses.

Yet... as they suggested ambushing Monokuma, breaking into the hangar and somehow hijacking the Exisals, breaking the glass of the End Wall.

It was truly lucky that they were able to get such information from the mastermind's room to formulate brand new plans. The mastermind sure is careless...

But he was pretty sure Tsumugi might anticipate something like that. As she had anticipated Miu and Gonta, or at least someone intruding the mastermind's room, and set that trap.

How many more traps would she prepare? How many more odds would be stacked against? What could they-

"Hmm?" Kokichi said, brought back from his thoughts as he saw Gonta near him, taking the pen away from him.

"Ouma-kun... you keep tapping pen on cheek. Now you have ink on your face," Gonta said, as Kokichi rubbed on his cheek and saw a smidgen of ink rubbed to his hand.

"Allow Gonta," Gonta said, as he took a handkerchief from his suit pocket and rubbed it off Kokichi.

"Hey, I'm not a kid," Kokichi pouted.

"Gonta knows that, but Gonta doing this because Gonta gentleman," Gonta said.

Kokichi deepened his pout but said nothing. If he was absent minded enough to not notice the ink splotching of his cheek, things have really taken a serious turn. He remembered his members telling him that he had this type of habit, because he usually likes writing down plans in notebooks and uses pens often, when they planned big ass crimes with the biggest of risks in extremely limited time.

It wasn't as if the killing game was not big ass or with big risks but the killing game only met one real requirement once throughout before and that was... extremely limited time. He had done the same habit back during the first ever time limit and unfortunately came up with nothing.

This time, he hoped it wasn't the case.

"Wow, you two are having a fucking moment, aren't'cha? Get a fucking room," Miu called out just when Gonta finished wiping the ink off his cheek and backed away from Kokichi.

Kokichi simply smiled at Miu, "You are the one to talk, with how you like to mess with Kii-boy."

"Oh, leave Kiibs out of this," Miu said, as she continued working through the computer with determined eyes.

"Hmph, while we are at this, anything unusual happened? Any of the other idiots trying to make a move?" Kokichi asked, as he fiddled with one of his notebooks with old plans and see what he can use there for the newer plans.

"Ouma-kun, it's not nice to call friends idiots," Gonta scolded, while Miu looked thoughtful.

"Well, speaking of idiots, Momota came by me a few hours ago and well, he..."

Miu explained the fact that Kaito had been asking her for inventions.

"Well about time. I thought I was the only one who even thought about that, or maybe they purposely forgotten because of what happened to Saihara-chan and Akamatsu-chan," Kokichi mused.

Miu and Gonta winced, being reminded of that brutal fact but Kokichi paid no mind as he ploughed on.

"Either way, Momota-chan hadn't told anyone about it except you, right?" Kokichi asked.

Miu nodded as Kokichi talked to himself, "Well... it wouldn't be surprising someone wanted to do something after a motive like that..."

"And I have to do it, won't I?" Miu snarked out loud, "After all, he's already expecting something out of me and it would be suspicious if I got nothing for him. But who knows... maybe whatever his plan is will work."

"Oh, Gonta hopes so too," Gonta cheerfully said, "Then, don't need to worry about time limit and everyone safe."

Miu and Kokichi looked at each other, the fact that Gonta did not get the sarcasm was not lost on them, because they both knew Miu did not believe whatsoever that Kaito's plan will somehow failed.

But Kokichi went along with it, "Yeah, you are right, Gonta! I'm sure that Momota-chan's plan is completely foolproof and not at all idiotic. In fact, maybe I would draw some blueprints for Iruma-chan to help Momota-chan along the way~"

Miu raised her eyebrows questioningly at Kokichi while Gonta smiled and said, "Gonta glad you are helping Ouma-kun. It good that Ouma-kun want to become better friends."

While letting the gentle giant believe whatever he wanted to believe, Miu and Kokichi seemed locked into a silent staring contest before she said, "If it's from you, I'm sure it would be something."

"Right-o on that, Iruma-chan!" Kokichi said.

Other than that, Gonta had told them that Kiibo's Flashback Light was about Miu's which worried her, but Gonta reassured Miu that Kiibo told him it only made him worried for Miu, with no urges to kill. Although Miu looked bothered, at least it confirmed that the Lights were not one on one.

Then, the night announcement started to play. They all decided to call it a day for now and see what they would do afterwards, leaving Kokichi on his lonesome.

Finally, he went to his bed, thought about everything and screamed into the pillow like an idiot.

Some people would say it was out of character, but it was mostly letting out a lot of feelings like pushing a button to restart them the next day. Because bottled up emotions would always end up breaking and as a masked liar like himself, it's better to let out your true self alone instead of suddenly breaking down in front of everyone.

Because it's the most difficult to mask feelings in the long run so a break is needed every now and then and right now, Kokichi needed to let out all the frustration and anger that was the motives, that cosplay torture and that idiotic trap.

And knowing this devilish game... things were far from over, so he would need to mask himself for what's to come. And he knew that because...

His thoughts had drifted towards the motives, and that trap. The fact that the mastermind would undoubtedly need someone dead as she let the other two play along.

The moment he was picked for that cosplay, no... the moment he saw that note in the mastermind's room the first time... he knew...

He knew he was guaranteed to die by the mastermind hellbent on making sure of it. So when it happened, he sure won't be surprised, as he finally went to sleep in near anticipation.

Because he knew... in this game, any opening is worth using.

So, although earlier than anticipated, Kokichi as a light sleeper and usually nocturnal person, awoken to the sound of the door breaking open to be closed swiftly afterwards and a shot of an arrow to the neck.

Well... to the neck of a dummy that is.

"What the...?" Maki Harukawa asked in shock as she was startled to see a makeshift dummy out of blankets and pillows that she had shot, looking around for the real deal.

'Too obvious,' Kokichi thought, feeling a little underestimated at the moment. Because of course he would piece it together and prepare for it, like earlier in the day when he discussed with Miu and Gonta about how to prevent the motives. Well, this was one of the ways.

Out of all of the options, there was only one person that Kokichi was quite sure would do it, and after confirmation that the Lights were indeed not one to one, well...

Of course it was Maki, their hatred mutual the moment he spilled her secret. It wouldn't take much to tip her off the edge to kill someone like him.

But so predictable that he was so prepared for it. Let's have the tables turned this time round.

"Wha-?" Maki said, as smoke suddenly descended into the room, and when she breathed some of it in surprise, she realized it was sleeping gas as she felt tired but she bit her tongue in order to stay awake and this time looked up.

To see Kokichi in a gas mask falling from the ceiling lights onto her and putting her on a neck hold from behind as he tried to push a cloth of chloroform onto her but she flailed for him unable to do so.

'Why do assassins have to be durable and tenacious?' Kokichi thought as he gripped Maki's neck tighter when she started struggling and getting a knife from her person and tried to stab him.

They kept struggling against themselves with Maki's hate filled eyes and Kokichi's hardened gaze.

Now all Kokichi had to do with this unsurprising and anticipated event was to win...

He flailed as he got nicked on the neck by Maki as she was moving around, trying to get rid of the tightened grip of Kokichi's and not falling asleep from all the gas and the chloroform that Kokichi was trying to make her inhale.

"Le- let... go... poi... son..." Maki shortly said, almost triumphant, as she tried not to inhale much of the gas as she fought to keep awake.

Once Maki said this, it was almost as if he felt the poison kicking in... and loosened his grip enough for her to throw him over, but it wasn't over yet!

Just because Maki was an assassin doesn't mean she cannot be bested, and although Kokichi didn't look like it, there was a reason he was a supreme leader of evil.

He kicked her as soon as she tried to grab ahold of him, tripping over a wire trap he laid out in advance and with all his strength, tackled her to his bed and pushed the cloth of chloroform directly to her mouth in one hand as he tried to handcuff her with the other.

"Mmph... mmph...!" Maki started struggling but it became weaker and weaker as Kokichi's grip got weaker from the poison he could now feel in his veins...

But one of them would have to give in and by luck... it ended up Maki, now handcuffed on both hands and legs, with the combined pressure of sleeping gas and chloroform that hit her much earlier than the poison for him.

"Haah... haah..." Kokichi huffed as he looked around the messy state of the room. With this... the mastermind made their first real serious move, trying to take him off the board... which he knew would happen eventually.

But too bad for the mastermind, that he won't die easily.

And then the door opened, airing out the sleeping gas with shouts of "Holy fucking shit!" and "Are you alright, Ouma-kun? Is Harukawa-san alright?"

There, he looked at Miu and Gonta, his two subordinates for now, who were wearing gas masks as they looked shocked at his and Maki's states.

It really was a good thing that he was doing co-op, huh? Or else he really would die, but now...

"Peachy," Kokichi said, as he coughed out blood.

The motives, the death threat, those rules, the attempted murder... all in one day. There really was no rest for the wicked.

But after everything, he could only think, 'Bring it on!'

Because no matter what was thrown at him, Kokichi chose to become invincible in this damn killing game, awaiting the day that he could finally flashed the perfect middle finger to it. Nishishi~

***

Gonta could not believe this happened this early. Unfortunately, considering the nature of this killing game, he expected someone to grow desperate and crack under the pressure to do something horrible. But not this early.

He still remembered earlier in the day when he talked with Kokichi and Miu about the motives and their plans.

"Not taking any chances, it's best to booby trap our rooms in case they decided to strike at night," Kokichi had said.

Then, they each told the other how they would booby trap it and thus if one of them were in trouble, the others would at least not be caught in those traps. Hence, the reason Miu and Gonta are prepared with gas masks.

Now...

"Ouma-kun!" Gonta called out as he rushed toward Kokichi and brought out an antidote, "Gonta checked the Detective Lab. Got every antidote Gonta could find. Gonta hope can find right one."

And how were they prepared with antidotes already?

"How about we bug the room so that we know what will happen when something goes down and we can act upon it immediately? How's that for a good idea from a gorgeous girl genius? Booyah!" Miu had said.

"And how do we know to make sure that someone don't die when it will happen?" Gonta had asked, "Gonta mean... when someone will do it, how do we make sure we stay alive if too late to stop them?"

"Oh, yeah, there's that innit?" Kokichi had said, "I guess if there's something like poison, then that would be really troublesome. So... we might as well know where all the potential murder weapons are and take a note of it."

So it was because they bugged Kokichi's room that they heard all that commotion. The moment the word 'Poison' left Maki's lips was the moment Gonta quickly rushed to the Detective's Lab, the only known place for poison and took every antidote he could, along with the first aid kit.

"Slow acting... so not these... excruciating pain, coughing out blood... surely lethal if it's Harukawa-chan..." Kokichi had said, as Gonta now treated Kokichi's knife wound.

Soon enough Kokichi took the knife and bow that Maki used, disregarding the knife covered in blood as he took a closer look at the bow.

"Colourless, odourless..." Kokichi mumbled as he hacked more blood and sorting out the bottles before he limit to a few...

"Hope I don't die from overdose. Wish me luck!" Kokichi said, as he started gulping down one bottle and another when it didn't work.

"Don't jinx it like that, you shota!" Miu demanded as she was standing in front of the door, her eyes mostly on Maki to make sure she didn't get the jump on them.

"Yeah, it not funny Ouma-kun. Gonta really don't want you to die," Gonta said, as Kokichi continued drinking one more bottle, this time something called Strike-9 antidote before...

I think this is it, and I'm not dead. Ha, take that, mastermind!" Kokichi said, feeling a little more chipper as he laughed wearily and collapsed.

"Ouma-kun!" Gonta shouted out in worry that Kokichi might really OD, something Gonta heard could kill people. Please... please no...

However, Kokichi waved it off, "It's nothing. I feel a little alive, so I'm doubting I OD'd. Just let me rest. Poison can take a load outta you."

Gonta sighed in relief at that, because that would mean Kokichi is alive. Maki is alive. And no one is dead. After those painful murders, to actually be able to prevent at least one death like this, however little his involvement, felt oh so satisfying that Gonta gave a big smile and said, "Gonta glad."

"But it's kinda creepy how you are taking this so cool, you shota. I thought you would be pissing your pants by now," Miu pointed out.

"Oh hell no. Supreme leaders of evil like me have taken down more than that measly assassin, like the yakuza when I squared off with one of their heirs and now he works under me~ So this is nothing. Now... all I have to do is damage control this. I don't want you two here when she wakes up," Kokichi nodded to Maki.

"Damage control this?" Gonta asked.

"Leave you alone with the assassin?" Miu asked.

"Yep," Kokichi nodded, "Just wait outside and try not to act like creeps. The room's still bugged so if I'm in danger, you can just barge in and shoot lasers or karate chop Harukawa-chan."

Maki was starting to stir and Kokichi shooed them saying, Quick get out of here. She doesn't need to know you are involved with someone like me. Plus, you know what to do."

Gonta and Miu nodded. This was also kinda included in their plans.

"But what the fuck do we with that would be killer? If they almost fucking killed us, how do we deal with it?" Miu had asked.

"Gonta don't really want to do anything to them, just make sure they won't kill again. Like you and Ouma-kun," Gonta had said, that made Miu wince and Kokichi keeping that blank face.

"But it won't go the same like our situation. And it's not like we can make them sign some kind of contract to make sure they don't kill ever again," Miu sighed.

"But we have to make sure, and Gonta think it best that no one know if happened," Gonta said.

"Why?" Kokichi asked.

"Because it like Iruma-san and Ouma-kun. No one know what you done except Gonta. And no one know what Gonta done either, but we fix things ourselves. Let others do the same, instead of telling everyone and everyone worry," Gonta reasoned.

If Miu, Kokichi and Gonta could do it, then Gonta think the others can too. And it was better than the time that Maki was revealed as an assassin where everyone panicked although it ended up OK, considering Maki hadn't killed anyone here yet. And Gonta overall thought it better that there would be no needless panic that could cause people to do things they regret.

At least, that's what Gonta thought, keeping everyone's interests in his mind.

"Hmm... I can understand that at least. Paranoia is the last thing we need but that means we have to convince them," Kokichi hummed.

"Fucking how?" Miu huffed.

"Gonta think we just try our best. If we can do it, surely others can too."

"Ugh... doubtful but in that case, when it does happen... we better not let them know that we are working together. Only the one targeted has to try to convince their would be killer and the rest will be backup if things go south. Excuses go..." Kokichi said.

And that was how Miu and Gonta were now at a safe distance from Kokichi's room as Miu booted her tablet that showed a video footage of Kokichi now squaring off with a glaring Maki.

Good luck... Kokichi.

"Well, look who finally woke up from her beauty sleep," Kokichi teased when Maki started struggling out of her restraints but Kokichi took the bloodied knife that once cut him and waved it carelessly over Maki, sometimes getting closer to her neck.

"Hmm, you don't want to struggle so much or else you would find yourself with a cut and I'm sure you don't want that~"

Maki narrowed her eyes, "For someone poisoned, you seem awfully chipper."

"Well..." Kokichi said, and Maki's eyes widened when she saw the supreme leader fiddling with a bottle, a bottle of the antidote that Kokichi drank which cured the poison.

"A supreme leader is always prepared. Now that you are awake... what will I do with you?"

"Are you going to kill me?" Maki asked flatly to which Kokichi laughed at but Gonta wondered how Maki even reached that conclusion.

Sheesh, why would you think that? After all, I care about my life, thank you very much. I'm too young to be executed for a filthy assassin like you," Kokichi said.

"Even though you want to die?" Maki asked, and Kokichi's eyebrows shot up, so as Miu's and Gonta's. Because Kokichi doesn't strike anyone as a suicidal type, you know?

"Wow... is that what you remembered? Of course I lied about that. What do you expect from a liar?" Kokichi asked.

"I figured as much," Maki said cooly, "So if you are not going to kill me, what are you going to do?"

"Huh? Straight to the point, aren't you? How boring. And maybe I will tell you if you say please," Kokichi pouted.

"Do you take anything seriously?" Maki asked.

"Do you think you have any say in this? I have the upper hand here, so I can do whatever I want~" Kokichi said.

"How annoying," Maki said, and as if assessing the situation, she said, "Ugh... please tell me, what are you going to do?"

"Since you asked so nicely," Kokichi chirped, "Then I will tell you. Because it's so boring risking execution over you, you are obviously going to live. But whatever happens, this will not happen again. As much fun as it was giving you a smack down, repeats are too boring."

Maki narrowed her eyes, waiting for Kokichi to continue, so he did:

"Besides, wouldn't it be so much more fun if the next morning I showed them this?" Kokichi asked, as he flashed the cut from his neck, "And everyone will wonder how it even happened. Panic will spread, fingers will be pointed and no one will trust anyone as your pathetic cooperation will crumble. In fact, what would happen if someone would kill out of fear of an unknown killer on the loose? Much more fun~"

Maki's eyes widened but Kokichi was not done yet.

"Or... what if I told everyone what really happened. What would happen to you, I wonder? And how will a certain astronaut would feel when he was wrong about the murder girl not being a cold blooded killer like I always knew you were? Hmm... how easy he would be killed if he were broken like that?"

"Don't..." Maki seethed, "Bring Momota into this!"

"Ah... a weak spot. Thank you very much for telling me this, Harumaki. I will make sure to dangle Momota-chan in front of you as a threat when I don't want to be killed again," Kokichi said cheerfully.

"Don't call me that, you fucking asshole, but then again, you were always one," Maki said, which Miu commented, "Too true."

Although Gonta wouldn't use that word, he can't deny the evil radiating off Kokichi as the bad person Gonta knew he was.

Gonta wasn't blind to see after Kokichi being a liar, the Insect Meet and Greet, refusal of cooperation and the VR fiasco that Kokichi was a bad person.

Even so... although Gonta doesn't understand bad people such as criminals, he was a gentleman and won't ignore them just because others will. At least, that was what he thinks gentlemen would do, being nice and kind to everyone.

And spending time with Kokichi, he realised there was more to him than just being a bad person and especially noticeable after the VR fiasco.

Gonta only wished, as he saw Maki glaring at Kokichi with utter hatred that Maki knew about Kokichi's hidden traits, and maybe Maki wouldn't have tried killing Kokichi. But who knows...

"Nishishi, I take that as a compliment, Harumaki. After all, being an asshole is one of my redeeming qualities as a supreme leader of evil," Kokichi said.

"I said don't call me that," Maki seethed, as Kokichi looked calmly at Maki despite all the anger radiating from her.

"Man, it's never boring pushing your buttons like this. But you have another option if you don't want any of that to happen," Kokichi hummed to himself, "Consider it my benevolence because I'm not completely heartless."

"Doubtful," Maki deadpanned, "But what is it?"

"This could be a lie but no one needs to know about this actually, Momota-chan won't be disappointed in you and everyone can go their merry way. But if you want all that to happen, then all you have to do are a little favors~"

"Favors...?" Maki asked, "For a dangerous guy like you? I almost rather be revealed to almost kill you rather than do any favors for you."

"Ouch," Kokichi said, "That really does hurt my fragile heart. But the favors are simple, really, although some I have to collect at a later date. For now, I need to know... what did Monokuma show you to make you want to kill me so bad? I know I'm evil, but that doesn't mean anyone will be stupid enough to kill someone to be executed after all."

"But I won't be executed if I killed the person who started it all," Maki said, her eyes narrowing in accusation and after a brief bout of silence, Kokichi laughed so hard that he was holding his stomach before wiping out the tears.

Gonta and Miu were of course shocked instead, because this wasn't funny at all for Maki to think Kokichi as the mastermind and harming him because of that. Gonta really wished he could tell the others about everything, the deception of the Flashback Lights, the entirety of this killing game, the KGB and especially the identity of the mastermind so they could all solve this together.

But he cannot before due to Miu and Kokichi's secrecy and, wanting to at least be there for the both, decided to respect those wishes so he won't be cut off, but especially now, after seeing those rules laid out, he was quite glad that he didn't say anything to the group. If Gonta told everyone about Tsumugi being the mastermind, she would have been killed and a new mastermind will be picked out.

But he still wished he could tell, to avoid misunderstandings like this.

"Oooh... I never laughed this hard in my life. Have you considered stand-up? Because you will rake better cash with this better than an unfunny robot that studies stand-up comedy and think he can be funny just like that," Kokichi said.

"What's so funny, you brat?" Maki demanded instead.

"The fact that you think I would go for the classical villain approach by being the mastermind and starting this killing game? Nah... I'm a player of this as much as you and having so much fun at that unlike you oh so serious and boring types. If that's the reason you tried to kill me, then what a real disappointment," Kokichi said.

"Is that a lie?" Maki asked.

"Hmm... well, I'm a liar. In the end, who knows? But it's the truth when I offered that deal. I say nothing, you do me favors. Try to kill me and everyone will know, and I won't guarantee everyone you care will be safe," Kokichi said.

"Is that a threat?" Maki asked.

"I couldn't get some insurance for my own life? Because seriously, this is the third time I could have been killed. You strangling me, getting hit by a floorboard that could kill me by concussion and now this? It's too much to almost die this many times anyway. Woe is me~" Kokichi said.

"Well, get ready for the fourth time, but this time for real," Maki said lowly.

"Wha- urk!" Kokichi said, as he was suddenly jumped by Maki whose hands were free with broken handcuffs laying next to her as she started strangling Kokichi.

"Ouma-kun?!" Gonta shouted out as he wasted no time hurrying to Kokichi's room, while Miu said, "Good luck."

And ran out of the dormitories. This was also part of the plan.

"But wouldn't it be fucking suspicious if two of us barged to stop this. And I don't want anyone to know that I've been working with you two losers. Imagine what they will fucking ask and how do we deal with that?" Miu asked.

"Then, only one of us so not suspicious?" Gonta suggested.

"Great idea," Kokichi cheered, "That means one of us deal the stuff when all flops while the other does their own thing and is basically back up. And when everything is dealt with, a meet up place to get things in order."

"OK then, Ouma-kun," Gonta agreed easily.

"... You know, who are you and what have you done with the twink? I have always felt it weird that you give ideas and plans out like this lately considering how much of a clown you are. Did aliens actually kidnapped and replaced you to this more agreeable person?" Miu asked, seeming to have that question for a long time apparently to ask it now.

"Oh, this is so not Alien Invasion, you sexed up bimbo. I am an Ultimate Supreme Leader for a reason, you know? Are you seriously doubting my abilities?" Kokichi asked sadly.

As Miu somehow got turned on by the 'sexed up bimbo' comment, Gonta tried to placate Kokichi and compliment him about his Ultimate although Gonta would straight up admit he doesn't understand it and steered the conversation to who would help deal with things when they go south?

Gonta volunteered for both Kokichi and Miu when they would be in trouble, but came a roadblock if it was for Gonta, as they argued over it and decided to settle it via rock, paper, scissors.

After a few ties, Kokichi lost, but he didn't seem too unhappy about it all the same, despite complaining and saying he's too weak to deal with stuff like this, but then again that was a lie, who knows? And after that, decided on the meet up places.

So that's why Gonta immediately rushed towards Kokichi's room, trying to put on an act, when he flung open the already half opened door and cried out in shock, "Ouma-kun!"

Maki's eyes widened in surprise as Gonta ripped her off Kokichi and restrained her with his big arms as Kokichi got his breath back.

"Nishishi, was I lucky that I knew Gonta would be out and about to hear all this ruckus," Kokichi said hoarsely as he rubbed his throat.

But Maki seemed to take Kokichi's words in a different meaning as she said, "You planned this?"

Kokichi just smiled at that.

"What going on? Why Harukawa-san try kill Ouma-kun like that?" Gonta asked, getting to the heart of the matter.

"Because... he's the one who started this killing game. He's the one who caused all those deaths. If I kill him, then this game will be over and we can all go home," Maki appealed to Gonta, but thanks to those rules, even if Kokichi was the mastermind, that was not true at all.

"Gonta don't believe that," Gonta said, "And even if true, Gonta don't want to kill anyone."

"But Ouma is dangerous. He will surely do something if nothing is done about it. Even if you don't believe me, he's an unpredictable evil bastard that might have tricks up his sleeve and probably harm others if we don't do something about it. He needs to be put down," Maki said.

Gonta had no idea what lifestyle Maki had to make her this callous to life, uncaring this much towards death that she thought it the only option to solve problems like this, but still...

"Gonta knows Ouma-kun is a bad person," Gonta admitted, "But that doesn't mean he deserves to die. No one deserves to die, Harukawa-san."

Gonta didn't understand bad people, but the fact stands that they are people. They have a life and death is not the answer to anything. And anything as long as it's alive, people, animals or insects, they all deserve to live.

Life is precious, among the things he learned in nature and no matter what direction taken, a life is meant to be lived and appreciated. Simple as that.

"Sometimes... Gonta, people need to be killed for the greater good. You don't know this asshole. Because I remembered... the Gofer Project, he tampered with it, he didn't want to participate and he threatened that everyone will die because of it. But it was really because of this asshole, because he was such a selfish brat that he actually went through that threat with Monokuma."

But Gonta knew those were all lies. It was unfortunate that he couldn't say it. And Gonta decided instead to tell Maki what he would do when facing with the mastermind.

"But that doesn't make us better people if we do that. Gonta don't want to stoop that low, Gonta rather find a better way to deal with things. Just because there are bad people doesn't mean Gonta have to be bad to deal with them. Gonta gentleman and Gonta decide to better than bad people because Gonta doesn't want to be bad."

He didn't understand bad people and never will. But he wanted to give them chances and hear their side of the story like gentlemen would do instead of treating them badly in turn because whether they deserve it or not, Gonta simply didn't want to outcast anyone.

Gonta felt... when he was outcasted because he was scary, when he found a place in the wilderness and saw outcasted animals along the way and back to civilization when he had seen a few abandoned people...

Whether bad or not, whether deserved or not, Gonta rather give people a chance and at least let them have one friend... so no one ends up like him as that lonely child with insects only as friends instead of having fun with other people.

That was why even though he knew Kokichi was undoubtedly bad, he had approached him. That was the real reason. But Maki didn't seem to agree with that sentiment.

"Unbelievable," she spat, "You really are too naive."

"Nishishi, but good thing for me. Now about our deal..." Kokichi said.

Maybe what Maki said was true, that he was really naive, but that didn't bother Gonta.

Because if that was who he really was, he was OK with it, as long as that meant it can help everyone here be friends, everyone here stay alive.

When that attempted murder happened, Gonta didn't want it to happen.

And Gonta knew about the time limit, that this will probably happen again...

Kokichi said they had a few days to plan for something that will help all of them.

And with everything going on, no matter how confusing or frustrating, Gonta hoped everything will turn out alright. That was all he wanted.

Chapter Text

3 days left...

Miu knew what to do and it was making a whole load of inventions to help her find a way to escape this hellhole as well as getting much information to make sure she doesn't get caught in the process.

That's why Miu was back in her Lab, working as much inventions as she could for Kaito, as she looked at the tablet where Kokichi was finishing up the deal with Maki Harukawa. Eventually Kokichi and Gonta would come here, as they agreed on this meet up place most of the time.

Mostly because Miu insisted, considering she needed to work on a motherfucking load of inventions if she wanted to carry out through her plans...

She still wanted to carry them out, now just in context of what the KGB planned because Miu had to admit, they did have some pretty sweet plans from time to time, minus some crazy shit from Kokichi.

Speaking of Kokichi, Miu was extremely surprised that he convinced Maki to strike that deal of his.

Especially Maki's deadpanned insistence that Kokichi was the mastermind but what really hit the nail in the coffin to kill him was... said right after Kokichi re-proposed the deal:

"No... I refused to do any favors for you, especially for someone whose the reason that everyone died and could still die," Maki said, "I don't want Momota nor Saihara in danger because of your antics and I especially don't want them to die because of your selfishness. I rather be revealed to almost kill you than let you do as you please."

"Oya? So that's really why you tried to kill me. Momota-chan and Saihara-chan? You have really come a long way from being a cold blooded assassin but I guess that's idiocy being rubbed to ya~ That just makes things easier indeed," Kokichi smirked.

"Huh? What does Ouma-kun mean? Gonta not follow," Gonta had said.

"As you know... woe is me, that I've been almost killed. Harumaki here thinks I'm some kind of mastermind to this killing game, but look at me... look at my cute face, how can I be?" Kokichi had asked.

"Appearances can be deceiving," Maki had scoffed.

"True, but whether I'm the mastermind or not, whose to say that the killing game still wouldn't continue if you did kill the mastermind?"

"What?"

Miu so could not believe he pulled out that. It was one of the rules that they just recently found out but he spun it in a way with cold hard logic that no one would suspect that he had retrieved that information, not simply assumed.

A self learning AI like Kiibo, or else as the mastermind, Kokichi wouldn't be here and be controlling Monokuma. So even if Kokichi was killed, Monokuma could continue the game.

Maki had said bluntly that she could just off Monokuma after offing him, but there were the Exisals...

So that was when:

"Silly Harukawa-chan. In the end, an assassin is only a killer who thinks that killing solves everything... but in a killing game that encourages it? That's nuts. If you want to protect Saihara-chan and Momota-chan, there are other ways~"

"And why should I listen to you?" Maki had asked.

"Please, Harukawa-san..." Gonta had pleaded, "Although Gonta not know what going on, Gonta think nothing can be solved without listening to each other. And killing each other definitely not best way to solve things."

Maki huffed but she relented because she knew things were going nowhere and... listened.

"Heyo, Iruma-chan? Oi, stop thinking about porn hubs and get your mind out of the gutter," someone had snapped at her and Miu saw it was Kokichi.

"I wasn't thinking of porn, you dipshit. And when did you get here?" Miu demanded.

"Just now, duh," Kokichi said, as Gonta also made his way to Miu.

"Gonta think that we managed to convince Harukawa-san," Gonta said.

"Surprisingly," Miu muttered.

The details will be spared but Kokichi was so subtle with Gonta around, quite calculating dangling Kaito and Shuichi's lives in front of Maki, nearly threatening considering he showed off the knife in Maki's vision and out of Gonta's at some points to remind her, and quite smooth when laying out possible favors of no consequence. It was insanity and brilliance of the whole thing that in the end Maki agreed.

"Aww... are you doubting my supreme negotiating skills, Iruma-chan?" Kokichi asked, "It really was easy as pie. So what have you been doing while I was wheeling and dealing with the assassin and Gonta was supervising? Don't tell me you were slacking off getting laid by one of your inventions, Iruma-chan."

"Oh, I fucking wish," Miu said, rolling her eyes, "But there's that damn USB and then Momota's commissions. And didn't you want to draw some fucking blueprints for me? Throw 'em in the pile and I'll get right to it."

Sleep is for the fucking weak. She had been holed up in her Lab even before she got the distress signal from Kokichi, trying to work out Kaito's order which could also serve her own purposes as well run through that computer.

A lot of fucking encrypted shit that she had to decode and she was no programmer so that was gonna take a whole ass time but what she already gotten was just BS that enraged her to the point of needing some loving to cool her down.

What the hell to ratings and reviews? Plot and motives? The only sickos watching this were obviously their kidnappers who let them die like cockroaches in the fucking middle of nowhere, and they have something like ratings?!

Well, since she obviously can't get any loving in this dry heave place, she will be contented when she gets to stick her middle finger up their tight asses and they suck ass until they fucking regret it and [I don't even feel like going on with this rant for my innocence's safety so censored, use your own imagination].

It was just that Miu was so angry right now, all the rage and craze bottled up and now letting go, the ratings and reviews for this BS the last straw.

She had felt things she didn't even want to feel once she started the path of a gorgeous girl genius: prideful, above, strong and confident.

But here she had been admittedly wimpy, below, weak and scared. Which just sucked. Why did she have to be here? Why did fate give her a bad hand and led her here?

Death and darkness, things she wanted to avoid for as long as she could were constant reminders here breathing down her back.

That's why she was trying so hard and so infuriated that the kidnappers deigned to even make fun of this thing. What a sick joke. Miu wanted to cry.

But at least there were some useful things inside the computer and they were almost enough to dissipate the barely kept in rage and fear that she had been checking in since the death threat.

There were those interesting conversations between Tsumugi and someone named 'DRD'. Obviously a pen name but throughout those long convos of... raving about this game for better words, something Miu didn't even want to understand, there was at least some useful content worth noting.

It was apparently at the very beginning of the killing game when this conversation happened:

~~~

TS: Everyone is already chosen and there. No problems, prologue beginning soon.

DRD: Good, but be careful and be quick about this game. The ADR have been getting to us. There's also a possibility that one has infiltrated in your killing game.

TS: What? That's impossible!

DRD: Oh, it's very possible. You know how long the ADR has been tailing us and it seems this time they have the upper hand.

TS: But I would have erased everyone's memories by then and they would have all despaired by then for this killing game, right? Would they still even be hopeful enough to follow through ADR?

DRD: Don't underestimate hope. Knowing them, whoever it is will eventually remember everything and ruin this killing game. Kill them before that happens.

TS: Understood.

~~~

That conversation was something Miu decided to show Kokichi and Gonta immediately once she finished translating it, after hours as Kokichi was in the middle of blueprint drawing and Gonta having cleaned up Kokichi's wound and reading up on the blackmail material for Tsumugi that was rendered useless if they can't blackmail her so Miu had no idea why he was reading that, but no fucking matter.

If they were this ADR, would seeing this conversation trigger their memories to help them escape?

No such luck, as both Kokichi and Gonta read through the conversation and shook their heads in disbelief.

"What? The ADR? There's an organization that's trying to stop this killing game? Do you know that's my organization? I knew they would come and rescue their supreme leader, but that's a lie. I have no idea who they are," Kokichi said.

"ADR? They friends?" Gonta asked, "Gonta wonder who ADR is?"

"You are not the only one," Miu said, "But if it's not you two and not me, then..."

"That means one of friends ADR," Gonta proclaimed, "They here to help us."

'But help us how?' Miu wondered, remembering the words, 'ruin this killing game'. Never about escaping, and what exactly is the purpose of this so called organization, as Kokichi claims it is because he said he could feel organization vibes from the name as Ultimate Supreme Leader of an organization himself, that seems to be a thorn on the side of the killing games?

Who knows but if the ADR is out there, at least that means they have one ally when they got out of this killing game, but...

"Not so fast, Gonta. What if whoever the ADR is dead? After all, whoever infiltrated this killing game as ADR to ruin this game, Shirogane-chan was well aware and was ordered to kill them once she figured out their identity," Kokichi said bluntly, which made Miu and Gonta wince.

Unfortunately, what Kokichi said was true.

Rantaro, Kaede, Ryoma, Kirumi, Angie, Tenko and Kiyo... anyone of them could be this ADR and already be killed, but...

"Still chance whoever this ADR still alive, and they can help us if they get back their memory right? Then Gonta go ask around," Gonta said.

Because whoever it is, did they remember everything and are already set to ruin this game or are they still a mindless puppet to this killing game?

"But it's not like you can ask, 'Are you the ADR?' straight up," Miu deadpanned, "That's a terrible idea."

Whoever heard that type of straightforwardness in this type of place? Also, there was the fact that they were being watched 24/7. Although the Bugvac might help clear most surveillance, it's still no guarantee, and doing something as careless as straight up asking about this ADR that Tsumugi got a hit list for was a bad idea no matter way you look at it.

"Then Gonta try to ask different way. Don't worry about Gonta. If finding whoever ADR is will help, then Gonta will do it. And Gonta know he no good with dealing the Four or the mastermind like you two, so this might be good for Gonta."

Ahh... Miu got what he meant. Gonta was not exactly smart, with his naïveté and gullibility with the additional fact that he was behind civilization, lacking common sense in that area.

Truth told, all this prevented Gonta from helping much, and Miu knew Gonta wanted to help.

So maybe that's why he jumped to this opportunity.

"This could be a good opportunity for us. Gonta can do that," Kokichi said.

"Gonta can?!" Both Gonta and Miu said, with the latter giving a look asking, 'Are you out of your mind?'

But Kokichi just smiled in turn, "Because who else but Gonta that could befriend, ask any type of question and steer them away from motives so we don't have another Harukawa-chan without raising much suspicion. He's perfect for espionage to integrate among our classmates!"

Miu didn't think that but he's right. Because Miu and Kokichi were the most... well, disliked people in the group.

Other than Kiibo, the rest thought her as a nut job and distanced themselves from her but that's just because she's a misunderstood genius.

Kokichi was just the lying clown that annoyed everyone hell and back, so if the two even tried to be friendly to the rest of those bozos, Miu could totally see them all eying the duo with suspicion.

That's why Kokichi was right. Because in the end, Gonta was the only one capable of being well liked at all by their classmates and prevent those idiots from fucking murdering each other because of the motive so they don't get another Maki, and ask around about the ADR that could flip everything here if done right.

"So while Gonta does that, we work on the Four," Miu muttered, sparing a glance at Kokichi who just smiled wide knowingly.

Because the both had the brains and the resources to pull it off. Miu would never consider anyone equal, much less the shota but he was a better pick at least. She would begrudgingly call him a partner when it came down to those blueprints and inventions but otherwise fuck off.

"Right-o, Iruma-chan," Kokichi said, "And here are the blueprints while you were humping your poor inventions."

Kokichi handed the blueprints and Miu was shocked at very intricate details of what could have been common inventions of their time if not for a few little 'modifications'.

"Are you fucking serious?" Miu just asked.

Kokichi shrugged, "One way or another, we all know that's the only way to escape. But since we have Miss Mastermind on our tail, these modifications are let's say... a fail safe."

"Overkill for a fail safe," Miu muttered.

"You know me, I like being grand," Kokichi said with his arms spread wide, but Gonta had a worried look on his face.

"Overkill?" Gonta asked fearfully, "Is Ouma-kun going to kill someone?"

"That's not what overkill means," Miu said, "But is that all, shota?"

"Yep, pleasure doing business with you. But how bout you? Anything else from the computer?" Kokichi asked.

"Still in fucking process. Whatever else I found was junk about ratings, reviews, used plot and motives of this killing game. Fucking nut jobs," Miu groused out.

Kokichi looked disgusted at that and Gonta looked hurt. He finally said:

"Why would they place us in killing game for fun? Why are we entertainment when this terrible to Gonta and rest?"

It sounded like a question he always wanted to ask, but...

"Who the fuck knows?" Miu asked.

"Yeah, they are just shitty bastards that piss me off. Their reasons don't even matter anymore. What matters is we get out of this killing game and stick it up their asses," Kokichi said.

"I like the way you think, shota," Miu said.

"Nishishi, of course because what else is there not to like about me?" Kokichi asked.

Miu rolled her eyes but she saw Gonta didn't look exactly comforted about it, but in the end, it was just that there was no answer to madness.

"Alright," Gonta finally said, "Gonta go and ask around now. Good luck with the Four," Gonta said. And he left, which surprised Miu a bit. She would assume that he would be sticking around with them considering the fact that Miu and Kokichi tried to kill each other days prior.

But then, maybe it means they got bigger fish to fry. After all, there was so much they needed to do and in a limited time, where Miu hoped they would be able to escape...

"Guess that's my cue to leave as well," Kokichi said, "Better chop chop on my inventions, Iruma-chan."

Then, he left but Miu did not stop him. Yesterday, as they ran through plans, they have decided on divide and conquer, because there was so much to do and so little time.

It was amazing that they were really working as a group when it was really none of their intentions (except Gonta, perhaps) to do so. To keep an eye, squeeze out information, a means to their ends for individual plans and motives. That's what their intentions really were.

So it really was funny that because they had to keep an eye, squeeze out information and they had their own individual plans that they ended up really working together. But maybe that's because their plans have the same end: to get out of this killing game although the ways might vary.

Anyway, the inventions weren't going to invent themselves, and due to the Four, Miu felt it best to take down at least one of them today. Specifically the Monokubs. They fall and the Exisals will too. A two for one deal.

Of course she had a plan for it, but she needed to work on it more and with a few inventions just in case things go awry.

Looking through one of Kokichi's blueprints, it seemed as he almost anticipated the plan and there was the perfect invention to keep things in check.

But for some of the materials, her Lab wasn't a warehouse filled with everything but the kitchen sink. So she had to drag herself to the warehouse for it.

For Miu to see...

"Yumeno?!" Miu cried out in surprise, "What are you doing?!"

"Nyeh?" Himiko asked with an expression of a child with her hand in the cookie jar.

And now things were about to get fucking fantastic, this is sarcasm obviously.

***

Kokichi knew what to do and it was improvising as much as he can to see which plan could be set by the end of the time limit in this fluid killing game of ever changing variables and carry it out with the hope of the most optimal results.

Too much has happened. Plenty information, variables ever changing, the unpredictable flow of the killing game.

But at least he could pull the strings of what he could control.

Despite Miu and Gonta's unpredictability from time to time, they can still be read easily by Kokichi and with a little nudge depending on information, they can go as he dictate without truly knowing on their own free will.

So with the ADR out, Gonta would be able to search for more info up there as well damage control any of their classmates from doing mass murder. Them being friendly and trusting Gonta could also lead to easy manipulation via if Kokichi chose to pull the strings.

Miu's inventions make her the most qualified to deal with the Four that is the Exisals but she would need to go through the Monokubs for that shit. One of the blueprints he made would definitely help in that front and subtly nudge Miu to that direction.

And what will Kokichi do?

Information hunt.

Kokichi was 100% sure that whatever was in the mastermind's room was not all the information of this whole killing game. Considering the structure and script of this entire thing, he begged to differ.

Plus, even though he rather keep an open mind, his brain was already firing towards a plan or two out of many in his arsenal that could be put to place...

However lack of information had topple countless plans from the beginning of times. And Kokichi, unbeknownst to Miu and Gonta, had questions about this killing game that needed to be answered to get to the truth of the matter.

And dissect it to a beautiful lie that will lead them to a different truth. Because the way the truth is going, dictated by the mastermind, will never have a good ending.

But let him and the others lie about that, lie in front of that truth of a bad ending, have the lie of the good ending. As a master liar, Kokichi wanted it to happen.

Before he knew it, Kokichi was already at his destination, checking the Monopad for everyone's locations.

It had been about half an hour since the morning announcement rang so some stragglers were still at the dormitories but no sign of anyone coming out. Tsumugi was currently in the dining hall.

If Tsumugi would hide information away from them that used to be the mastermind's room, it's got to be either in her room or her Lab unless there was another secret hideout or something in this Academy.

So that's why he was currently at Tsumugi's Lab when the coast was clear as he opened the door and went inside.

Although he had plenty time cosplaying here, that did not mean he had time to even have a cursory check of this place. Considering now Tsumugi was in the dining hall, now he can do so.

Of course Kokichi could have checked Tsumugi's room but there were still stragglers at the dormitory and he would have to lock picked the door.

Kokichi's fast at that sure but who knows when someone would just open the door and see you breaking and entering the room. The Lab was easier for now.

But he had no idea how much time he would have considering the circumstances but hoped it was enough to find something juicy.

So as every now and then he checked the Monopad as he searched through every nook and cranny of the Lab. No such luck, although it had just been an hour and he only did a cursory check before doing a more through one.

However it seemed that he won't have the time for it, as he saw that Tsumugi was heading to the floor of her Lab. Unwilling to take chances, Kokichi headed out without another word.

If Tsumugi was going to be holed up in her Lab, that means the dormitory room would be available and that room being much smaller than her Lab, a search there would be a piece of cake. Also the fact that most people would already be out of their dorms so this would be a good idea.

If no one sees him lock pick it, that is.

Kokichi was putting a distance between himself and Tsumugi, taking the long way out of the school and into the dorms for it. But he was nearing them so he decided to check the Monopad to make sure the coast is clear. If not, he would just find other things to do, it's no problem.

But he didn't even have a chance to even check the Monopad before he was bumped from behind that he tripped and fell down, also loosening up the scarf that had been tied up like a bandage to the wound.

It must have come undone when his scarf snagged something on the ground while he fell. Apparently, that person was in a rush but they took his scarf and said, "Sorry Ouma, didn't see you, here's your- the hell?! What happened to your neck?!"

Once Kokichi straightened himself up, he was met face to face with Kaito Momota, who was holding the scarf in front of him with a shocked look on his face as his eyes directed toward the slash on his neck. That nick although not deep enough to take a life was still deep to be passed off as a cut but Kokichi tried anyway.

"Oh, this?" Kokichi pointed out as he took the scarf from Kaito and started tying it back to his neck, "I got it when I accidentally scratched myself with your razor while putting sprinkles in your hair gel."

"Wait, you did what?!" Kaito asked as Kokichi laughed at Kaito's reaction.

"But... I don't think that's a razor cut. I have a few myself and that didn't look like a razor cut. It's deeper, like a..." Kaito said, fishing for the right word.

"Yeah, that was a lie. I got it while in hand and claw combat with Monokuma," Kokichi said nonchalantly.

"Wait, you did what?!" Kaito asked as Kokichi continued.

"Yeah, those claws really leave a mark. He didn't have to go ballistic on me because I told him he was doing such a terrible job with this killing game that it's getting boring. An overreaction, am I right? At least I was able to obliterate him with my black belt martial arts. Nishishi~"

Kaito frowned, "I'm sure that's one of your lies, and I have better things to do now than ask how you got hurt since you won't talk about it. Because right now, I'm looking for Harumaki. Have you seen her?"

Other than last night wheeling and dealing, no. So Kokichi shook his head, saying, "What do you want with murder girl anyway? Some trouble in paradise?"

No one was really blind to the fact that Maki had feelings for Kaito, considering the nickname, blushing and shy gestures you would never see her do in front of anyone else and is a huge contrast to her still cold and quiet personality with the rest of them, with the only exception of Shuichi where her personality thawed out only just a little.

In due that, Kokichi heard that a few people were placing bets of 'Harumota' which was the ship name apparently of when it would happen. But it's probably a rumor because who has time for bets, although there's a casino... wait, whatever. Details, details.

Of course the only one who doesn't know is the person receiving said affection.

"What trouble in paradise are you talking about?" Kaito asked, sighing as if fed up dealing with Kokichi, a natural response, "It's just that she's not herself and she won't tell me nor Shuichi what's going on. I want to find her so I can get to the bottom of it."

Kaito was too oblivious to get what Kokichi was hinting about with that kind of response. Thus, the dense people legacy continues.

Knowing Maki, she would never tell Kaito what went down, and throughout that deal, Kokichi garnered she rather not disappoint Kaito and knowing she tried to kickstart the killing game by killing him would disappoint Kaito very much.

But who was he to tell Kaito all that and stop his quest? It would be funny knowing that he was letting Kaito go through such a useless quest.

"Nishishi. Good luck finding the elusive murder girl. I have supreme leader stuff to do and conversing with idiots is not one of them. So arrivederci!" Kokichi said, but he was now held back by Kaito.

"Oh no you don't," Kaito said, "If you are going to do something evil with your supreme leader stuff, then you might as well make yourself useful helping me find Harumaki instead."

Of course, he didn't mind if other people went on useless quests but obviously not himself.

"I never said I was going to do anything evil, Momota-chan!" Kokichi protested, "And whatever I'm going to do is tons more useful than finding the murder girl and being strangled by her again."

"Harumaki is not going to do that," Kaito sighed as Kokichi wanted to say, 'Says my neck' but Kaito continued, "And don't you go proclaiming yourself the evil supreme leader? So your supreme leader stuff will be evil, right? And after everything yesterday, that's the last thing we need."

Thus a determined Kaito now dragged Kokichi without anymore say. How rude.

"What? Do you assume everything I do will be for evil? Well, I am a supreme leader of evil after all, but that doesn't mean you can strip my freedom off like that, you big meanie!" Kokichi whined.

"I'm just making sure that you don't do anything the rest of us wouldn't want. And knowing you, that's very likely. What kind of hero would let someone as sketchy as you do anything you please, especially after your little speech yesterday? Yeah right would I let you do something the rest of us will regret."

Rude, but true. After all, the Insect Meet and Greet definitely spoken volumes about that. After that, why would anyone let him do whatever he wanted? Actually, it was just that Kokichi was fast and under the radar that he had still been free back then. But now he was caught by Kaito, so...

"But hanging out with moi to make sure lil' ol' me isn't up to anything? Is Momota-chan starting to have feelings for me? And when I thought you didn't like me," Kokichi said, batting his eyelashes in an attempt of psyching Kaito out in being shock or disgusted that he would slip up his grip and he can run away from him.

"No homo bro!" Kaito immediately said, "And are you actually coming out of the closet now of all times? For me?!"

"Yes, for you," Kokichi said near seductively, trying to unseat Kaito and making him regret even trying to restrain Kokichi like this, "Does that make your heart thump fast? Do you feel it stirring inside your chest, my beloved Momota-chan?"

Kokichi got closer to Kaito as he possibly could, smiling that he recoiled under this seductive pressure. The thing is Kaito was quite a conservative man in the old views of the world and although Kokichi thinks someone like Kaito, a heroic person who lets in most people with open arms, can be accepting of an ever changing world, he would probably still be uncomfortable with some liberal things.

So pulling something as liberal as gay, which Kokichi isn't because he doesn't let sexuality define him, was the fastest tactic to unseat someone like Kaito that Kokichi could think up on the spot.

Sure he could pull a nightmare face, but those were strictly reserved for very dire situations otherwise using them might not be as effective if they somehow gotten used to it, and best shock them first time than waste it here.

So this was the second best option, and looking at Kaito's uncomfortableness, it would only be a matter of time before he slipped, but... he didn't.

"... This has got to be one of your lies. Yeah, it is! And I don't even like you. Especially not like that. Stop fooling around, you are not getting out of this," Kaito said, dragging Kokichi off some more.

Dang.

"Yep, it's a lie. Like I would ever like an idiot like you. But it's so mean to drag me to my death like that, you know? I know we don't like each other but this is so cruel..." Kokichi lamented.

"If you are talking about Harumaki, for the last time, she's not like that," Kaito said, and if Kokichi could, he would say, 'Says my wound,' as Kaito continued, "Tch, stop complaining and loosen up a little. Helping someone once in a while won't kill you."

"But I don't wanna!" Kokichi whined, "Why don't you ask the others? They would be more willing."

"You were the first person I stumbled upon while looking for Harumaki. And I don't want you causing trouble so this is a win win," Kaito said.

"Only for you," Kokichi murmured, voice audible but Kaito didn't listen, too stubborn... as usual.

This was not what Kokichi had in mind of how he would spend his day. But at the same time, whose to say he cannot take advantage of this?

After all, among the people in this killing game, Kaito was the most influential, the centre piece of motivation and the voice of command.

Mostly in due to Kaito's heroic personality, unrealistic and no doubt inspired by superheroes in cartoons in Kokichi's probably biased opinion, and that in a situation such as this killing game, people look more towards a hero figure to help them. In small and big ways Kaito had done it, like making Shuichi and Maki his sidekicks, like always reminding everyone of Kaede's promise and always encouraging everyone when no one else could.

That easily made Kaito among the most trustworthy people in this killing game, and the fact that he's loud and a person of actions instead of words when he could, Kokichi had no doubt whatever plan Kaito concocted, as Miu told the KGB that Kaito needed everyone, everyone will help, probably except for Miu and Kokichi.

That is extremely dangerous, considering the mastermind was among that everyone and the rules forbid the KGB from pointing that out lest Tsumugi die and another mastermind will be chosen. And because the mastermind was in there, whatever plan Kaito had was doomed to fail and might harm a few others along the way if done wrong.

Kaito was stubborn as Kokichi so that's why Kokichi was not even going to bother to change his opinion, just as he barely bothered to change Kaito's heroic personality and simply reminding the consequences. Plus, he was never supposed to find out about this plan.

But as he was dragged, he decided he needed to ease to that, and have the opportunity to plant some suggestions...

"Hey, Ouma, did you see Harumaki acting any strange to you?" Kaito asked.

"Hmm... strange? Nope, but I did she her almost killing Saihara-chan in her sleep. Maybe that's why she's so upset and ditched you like that. Nishishi," Kokichi said.

"That's a lie, isn't it?" Kaito asked irritably, "And who said anything about ditching? Harumaki just wanted some space because something was wrong, but I, Kaito Momota, can't leave things be when something is wrong with my sidekick! That's why I'm finding her!" Kaito declared.

"So in other words, she ditched you," Kokichi said, snickering.

"I said she didn't!" Kaito shouted, fists pummeled together in anger or exasperation for such a suggestion. Kokichi snickered again, thinking about prolonging it but he rather not waste anymore time with the astronaut so decided to drop it, but not without another word edgewise.

"Yeah, sure, keep telling yourself that, Momota-chan. Don't say I wasn't right when Harukawa-chan sees you and runs the opposite direction. Nishishi," Kokichi laughed.

"Whatever you say, man. Do you ever do anything other than being a brat?" Kaito asked, already exasperated.

"Nope, it's one of my many talents, Momota-chan. If you don't like it, you don't hafta hang out with me~"

"I'm not hanging out with you," Kaito denied, "I'm just keeping an eye on you, like how I'm keeping an eye out for Harumaki," Kaito said, his eyes roving around the area.

"Hmm... could Harumaki be at the casino? Better check that place out," Kaito mused and if Kokichi didn't know better, Kaito might be going there to satisfy that incurable gambling addiction he had.

"Ugh, I'm starting to think you are definitely an idiot. Did it never occur to you that letting me help find Harukawa-chan is the worst idea ever?" Kokichi groaned as this farce continued.

"Stop saying I'm an idiot. That's not even true, and it hurts my feelings," Kaito said.

"Yeah, yeah, but only an idiot would think of letting someone Harukawa-chan really hates to find her and when she sees me... she will definitely run in the opposite direction. Seriously, it's like no matter what you do, even plans, they will all end up idiotic for sure," Kokichi snickered.

"Hey! You will eat your words when you find out about my awesome plan!" Kaito declared and Kokichi smiled widely. Gottem. The beautiful combination of simple minded and hot headed, you provoke and they spill.

"What plan? Are you saying you have some kind of plan?" Kokichi asked, his eyes sparkling with interest, as Kaito was averting his eyes and trying to make up excuses.

But it was too late. He had laid out the foundation of what would go down.

Time for Mr. Improvisation.

***

Gonta knew what to do and it was making sure that all his friends did not die, as he protected, made sure they made no wrong choices and help everyone be united against the killing game in their own ways.

While Miu and Kokichi were doing their own things, under surveillance from his bugs of course, Gonta went to the dining hall for breakfast, among the first few to make it in. He saw Maki among them and after brief eye contact looked away as Gonta sat separate from Maki.

It cannot be blamed, last night was quite awkward after all. With Kokichi, attempted murder and all. Gonta wondered how Maki felt about his involvement throughout the whole thing but she rarely commented on it, just trying to get Gonta to her side why killing Kokichi was a necessity.

But even if he wasn't working with Kokichi as the KGB, it was something that Gonta could never condone.

So despite Gonta's involvement, Maki never suspected that he was actually working with Kokichi by extension of KGB from the beginning.

After all, Miu and Kokichi were still adamant that no one ever found out about their partnership. Although Gonta still is wholly unsure why, he had long respected Kokichi and Miu's wishes by then and in trying to earn their trust, played along with the secrecy.

But with how things are going, as Gonta thought of Tsumugi, who was yet to be here, briefly as he ate his breakfast, maybe that was for the best. At least according to those rules...

"Good morning, Gonta-kun," someone said, and Gonta looked up to see that it was Kiibo who came to sit down with him.

"Good morning, Kiibo-kun," Gonta said, "How are you?"

"Fine," Kiibo said, "About that rom-com, do you think we could watch them together today?" Kiibo asked.

"When?" Gonta asked.

"How about this afternoon?" Kiibo asked, "I can't say that I'm not curious about how the two protagonists will be together..."

"Yeah," Gonta said, because although he had more important things to do, he can't say that while watching the episodes he didn't get hooked to the story. That's one of the things about civilization when he got out of the wild, the entertainment. Karaoke, movies and games... they can be so much fun.

"How the two protagonists will be together... are you finally watching that rom-com I recommended you, Kiibo-kun?" A voice appeared out of nowhere and they saw that it was Tsumugi who seemed to arrive and situated herself next to them as she joined herself in their conversation.

"Yes, Shirogane-san," Kiibo said, "I have only watched the two episodes but I'm thinking I'm starting to have a broader perspective of love. Although I don't understand, it's like they are made for each other but they still avoid each other and don't realize it..."

Tsumugi cringed at that and said, "I know right? The show was a total slow burn and dancing around. It's like a combination of Miraculous Ladybug and Kaguya-sama: Love is War. It's like they know they love each other but play it off as friends because they don't even have the courage to confess and they somehow think the other is already-"

"Uh, Shirogane-san, I don't think I want to be spoiled," Kiibo said.

"Oh yeah, sorry," Tsumugi said, "But hearing about that rom com makes me want to watch it again. Can I join you guys?"

"But we just finished the second episode yesterday," Gonta said, "We going to watch third episode, so..."

"I don't mind. I totally watched that whole series already. I don't mind not starting from the beginning. I just want to rewatch the cute moments because my serotonin totally needs it, like the time-"

"Don't spoil, Shirogane-san!" Kiibo warned and Tsumugi clammed up, looking bashful, "Yeah, sorry."

Soon enough they made plans and agreed on the afternoon where they would binge watch the whole series. Some people might say it be a waste of time considering the time limit but to Gonta, it was more a part of his plan and a part of his goal.

Sure there was the mastermind, the Four, the time limit and escaping but what about the others? People asked where, who and what but they don't ask how.

How are the others faring? Will they be alright? The small things like that, although Gonta guessed to many people wouldn't be much considering their end goal was to escape this killing game.

But here's the thing: There was so much Gonta cannot do, at least in comparison to the others, like Kokichi and Miu.

Ever since the first death, the continuous victims and blackened, the Insect Meet and Greet, the Student Council, the suggestion about the Exisals and the VR fiasco...

Gonta was wholly aware of this uselessness, something he already lamented which was why he was so desperate to the point that he offered to fight off the Exisals and be shut down about it immediately. Which was why he did anything to be useful. Because who has ever heard of a useless gentlemen?

But then, with keeping the peace between Miu and Kokichi, the KGB, finding out so many things, his other classmates, the bug surveillance he did, helping prevent a murder, no matter how little a role...

As useless as Gonta was, it was at some things. But some other things, however small, at least he was still useful at something. And even if it was not exactly in the big picture, Gonta rather be useful the only way he knew how.

And if it helped in the bigger picture, especially somehow recommended by Miu and Kokichi despite not wholly trusting them but because they were a team, he was able to incorporate their ideas into his, well for Gonta, that was simply the best he could ever ask.

At least maybe he would have a better chance of stopping people from murdering each other, hopefully.

He looked at Kiibo and Tsumugi, smiling. And it was a good thing for his additional goals. Not about the ADR because Gonta was worried to ask Kiibo leading that in front of Tsumugi. Yet he was glad that he was hanging out with Tsumugi all the same.

Because Gonta... wanted to figure her out, which was the reason why he read that blackmail material although it was wholly useless to the fact that they can't use it to blackmail Tsumugi apparently. But Gonta was never planning to blackmail in the first place anyway.

He wanted to know more about Tsumugi, why she went towards the path of the mastermind, why was she working with the twisted people who kidnapped them and enjoyed watching their deaths as if it was a cartoon, why risk herself with possible death if anything went wrong just to get this game, full of death, going?

It did not make sense to Gonta, and he refused to believe that it was because Tsumugi was evil. After all, wasn't there Kaede who had done a bad thing for all of them to escape? Does that make her evil?

Kirumi, sacrificing them for her country?

Miu, trying to kill Kokichi in a desperate attempt to escape?

Kokichi, someone who would willingly let himself to be killed so everyone can escape, in mad schemes?

Within the killing game, Gonta's world expanded, that within the simplicity of good vs evil, it was much more complicated than that. That evil cannot be truly written off as evil when it has good motivations, like Kaede's, Kirumi's, Miu's and Kokichi's... morality speaking wrong but in their individual circumstances however...

Actually, if Gonta were to say the truth, he learned most from Kokichi, about the blurry line between good and evil between a person. That Kokichi, despite being a bad person by his lies, tricks and deviousness held a shred of good through his motivations of making sure everyone escapes through possible self sacrifice, something Gonta wanted to do with the Exisals, and the little things he did in comfort, in leading them on, in pushing forward.

People, especially within the laws of good vs evil, were not simple at all, and Gonta wanted to believe that Tsumugi was no exception to this. So he was giving Tsumugi the benefit of a doubt, and with hope, she was probably like Kokichi. A shred of good within all that evil. A reason...

Anything else other than the obvious answer.

Because it could be much more complicated than that, and maybe... maybe...

They all could escape together as friends. But Gonta knew that was wishful thinking.

Suddenly, his wishful thinking was cut off when he heard a loud clatter off the table. Gonta looked up to see Maki suddenly standing up as Kaito and Shuichi were getting her to sit back down but were unsuccessful as she ran out. Kaito followed immediately.

Because Himiko left earlier, unnoticed by Gonta, there was only Shuichi left, who looked distraught. Kiibo, Gonta and Tsumugi looked at each other before they all unanimously went to Shuichi, with Kiibo speaking up.

"Is everything alright, Saihara-kun?" Kiibo asked to which Shuichi smiled wearily.

"Hopefully? I don't know. I hope Harukawa-san and Momota-kun work things out," Shuichi said.

"Huh, is there something wrong with them?" Tsumugi asked.

"Something is," Shuichi agreed, "But I don't know what, and it's something about Harukawa-san," Shuichi said.

"Harukawa-san?" Gonta asked, eyebrows furrowed but he knew where Shuichi was coming from. After last night...

"I wasn't there for the whole thing," Shuichi sighed, "But it seemed that Harukawa-san had been quiet and moody, and Momota-kun thought something was up so he pestered her. When I came, he roped me into it but it seemed Harukawa-san had enough so she went off and ran. Then Momota-kun declared that he will get to the bottom of Harukawa-san and ran off after her, and here we are."

"Well, if it is Momota-kun with Harukawa-san, I'm sure everything will turn out alright," Tsumugi said with dreamy eyes and a wistful smile.

"But how about you Saihara-kun? Are you not going to chase after them as well?" Kiibo asked.

"Oh, Kiibo-kun," Tsumugi laughed, "There's a reason why Saihara-kun didn't bother."

"Huh? Why?" Gonta asked, because if he were in Shuichi's shoes, he would definitely go after them to fix things up because they were the closest of friends but Shuichi shook his head with a rueful smile.

"Don't want to be the third wheel," Shuichi said, and although Tsumugi seemed to understand quickly followed by Kiibo after a moment's thought with widening of eyes at a realisation, Gonta was still clueless.

What does being the third well have anything to do with it? Gonta didn't get the analogy, but decided to smile politely and ask.

"Definition of third wheel," Kiibo spoke up, "An unwanted third party accompanying two people on a date."

"But Momota-kun and Harukawa-san are not dating," Gonta said, "So how can Saihara-kun be unwanted third party?"

"You sweet summer child... Harumota..." Gonta could hear Tsumugi muttering under her breath before she spoke up to Gonta with a smile, "It's more that Saihara-kun thought they could handle themselves. Anyway, I still have new cosplays to make after that motive. But see you in the afternoon."

"Iruma-san didn't come again and have breakfast. I should send some food her way. If you will excuse me," Kiibo said.

And with that, both Tsumugi and Kiibo left, with only Gonta and Shuichi there, so...

"Would Saihara-kun like to hang out with Gonta? Gonta doesn't have anything to do..." Gonta said, knowing this would be a good time to hang out with him and find out about any possible involvement with the ADR and if not, making sure Shuichi was OK with the motive.

In hindsight, he should have checked in everyone about that... Kokichi and Miu OK because they disbelieved the Flashback Lights strongly, Kiibo doing fine because he wanted to strongly believe in his friendship with Miu and Maki barely avoided with the thankful safety precautions preventing a murder from the motive.

But how about Shuichi, Kaito and Himiko? Tsumugi too, but would she really give herself a motive? Considering Tsumugi is... well, Gonta was unsure about that, so it didn't matter for now.

"Sure," Shuichi said after a moment and Gonta beamed.

"Then, Saihara-kun want to walk around Academy and talk? How Saihara-kun doing?" Gonta asked earnestly.

"Fine," Shuichi answered.

"Saihara-kun sure? Gonta kinda nervous, with motive and all," Gonta confessed. Shuichi smiled wryly.

"I guess anyone would be nervous about that," Shuichi admitted.

"And Gonta unsure about information from motive," Gonta said.

"What do you mean by that?" Shuichi asked.

Gonta was going to be truthful about this, because despite some secrecy for maybe safety of the others, maybe to earn the trust if the other two KGB members, there are some things that confused Gonta and someone like Shuichi, the smart detective, could help his woes.

"Gonta know about the Ultimate Hunt, Gofer Project and Monokuma taking over, but... if Gofer Project important, why no one rescue us when Monokuma announced killing game? Since we important for this Gofer Project," Gonta said.

As Miu said he can't just directly straight up ask anyone, 'Are you the ADR?' But then how could he ask about the ADR in that case? Considering the ADR's goal of ruining the killing game, Gonta decided to conclude that meant in a way helping them escape.

Because wouldn't the killing game be ruined if everyone here were saved? How else would the killing game be 'ruined'?

Even Kokichi's initial plan, via that mind reader, included the gang escaping if his plan worked. So Gonta wondered whether bringing up the topic of escape and having an idea would trigger something about the ADR from Shuichi?

And even if Shuichi wasn't a part of the ADR, it still stands that they were all in the same boat and any input about escape was welcome, despite the secrets that Gonta withheld from the rest by his association with the KGB.

Still... when Gonta thought of escape, and knowing the fact that the ADR was actively working against the killing game...

Well, why didn't anyone save them yet, considering all the deaths? What are the ADR actually up to, and do they even have a plan?

Or was that person who infiltrated here already...?

But no, Gonta didn't want to think about that, so he patiently waited for Shuichi's answer.

Shuichi seemed to be thinking and then said, "You are right, Gonta-kun. If the Gofer Project is important, why didn't anyone try to stop this? Many people were prepping the 16 of us for the Project, so they should have known... and they should have rescued us."

Gonta wasn't sure about that. Because truth told, he never believed in the Gofer Project in the first place. Basically, he was lying to Shuichi at that aspect, which he felt bad about as is.

Gonta didn't like lies, as they could sow discord and caused many problems as resident liar Kokichi had proved from time to time, but there are times that Gonta's hand was forced into lying. For example, that he was raised by wolves when in fact it was Lizardmen, aka Reptiles.

Because he was told to lie about that, but he had told the truth to people he thought he could trust, among them his parents. But they disregarded it quite easily and told him to stop lying when he was in fact telling the truth. The only one who really believed Gonta was Shuichi himself.

Which made lying to Shuichi a little harder on Gonta's conscience, but... as far as anyone was concerned, whatever they seen in the Flashback Lights were the truth, and so ingrained in his memory that Gonta would believe so if not for the contradiction called the end of the world.

And unlike with the Reptiles, Gonta didn't know how to break down this particular truth, nor whether he should. Gonta was usually an honest person but he had kept his own secrets and it wasn't that he didn't trust Shuichi, but he realized... sometimes, truth puts people in danger.

After all, look at Kokichi and Miu, who knew the truth and got a target painted on their backs after that VR fiasco and with those set of rules Gonta was privy to in the mastermind's room, Gonta realized that ignorance was bliss.

To put it simply, it was like Gonta was channeling some inner Kokichi, little of it there was inside Gonta, to help converse with Shuichi and get to the issue subtly. Gonta had to admit that he might be both in and out of his depth with this one. With his amiable and friendly personality, he was able to get along with everyone but because he was among the least deceitful, it was harder to get to points without triggering anything that he didn't want.

But Gonta tries, because this was something he can do, and something that could help all his classmates, made sure they don't go about doing anything stupid.

And get input of any escape ideas, as Shuichi would be thinking, along with Gonta too but also helping out and encouraging.

Because in this killing game, that was probably all what Gonta can do. Maybe he could do more, but until he found what, this will have to do.

As Shuichi was thinking, Gonta decided to give his input although it was based on lies. But... the one thing about telling lies to Shuichi, to a detective, is that they will unravel it and lead them to the only one truth.

Well, at least the 'there is only one truth' was a catchphrase Gonta often heard in this one detective show as he was learning about the era of gentlemen and saw gentlemen detectives and had thought gentlemen solved mysteries. Shuichi had dissuaded him of that though.

But solving mysteries in this killing game was still important, and Gonta really did that one truth. Would lies be untangled and become the one truth that will confuse Gonta less?

"They should have rescued us..." Shuichi said, going back to his point, "Unless they can't. Maybe interference from the cult? After all, the cult had itself going against this Project in the name of... despair."

The word spat out from Shuichi like spoilt tea and Gonta fairly wondered about that, but in due to the Flashback Lights, maybe it should be a given. The words, hope and despair, too often used and too often projected. It's no wonder a word such as despair could give such a foul taste.

"Yeah..." Gonta agreed, because the cult, or as Gonta would rather call them kidnappers, were indeed doing this for something of despair.

"So that means... we are all on our own?" Shuichi asked, dread seeping in his voice and Gonta knew what to do.

"We maybe on our own, but we still have each other," Gonta offered, "But Gonta think..." And maybe here was a moment of truth, "Even if no one rescue us now, there still people out there who can help us, right? Because like Saihara-kun said, there would be many people who want to save this Project."

"Do you think... maybe there way to reach out of them?" Gonta asked.

Shuichi looked thoughtful, before he said, "I don't know."

And with that, Gonta was nearly certain that Shuichi wasn't part of the ADR. If he was, he would have a way to reach out to them for sure and get out of here. At least that's what Gonta thought. But he wasn't discouraged by it, and he still had plenty of opportunities anyway.

So, Gonta smiled and said, "Do you think there any other idea of escape?"

"Well..." Shuichi said, as they chatted more. He still wasn't sure about Shuichi's well-being overall, but he had plenty of time.

He will have plenty of time for all of them after all, because whether in small or big ways, that's all Gonta can do. And throughout it all, get the truth that would rid all his confusion. Gonta was sure of it.

Chapter Text

"What the fuck? You are actually into bondage, Yumeno? I knew you were a kinky bitch!" Miu shouted to Himiko, the second thing to come to her mind when she saw Himiko taking a bunch of rope with her.

Unfortunately the first thing that Miu could think what Himiko wanted with the rope this time, considering their situation, was murder.

And the fact that she was about to reach her hands to a bottle on a shelf, a bottle that Miu can very well make out as chloroform, there was no doubt.

But exactly what idiot would point out to a would be murderer about this? Miu would get killed for that, like in the no witness thing. Well, nuh uh, no thank you.

But still... to actually stumble upon a preparation of murder... what the hell was Miu supposed to do? Where is the fucking guideline when you need it?

But right now, she had to focus getting out of this unscathed as she saw Himiko looking at Miu with narrowed eyes before answering:

"Nyeh... not everyone is like you Iruma. No one wants to be... tied up like your daddy and feel damn good about it, is what you would say right?" Himiko said.

"Wh- what? Tie me up like your... daddy, and feel damn... good about it...?" Miu moaned, but regained some of her spark before she succumbed to bliss of the thought and retorted, "But that's your kink, bitch, not mine!"

"I'm not into bondage," Himiko retorted back with the same spark that Miu dished out which startled her. It was indeed a real contrast to the lazy apathetic magician that Miu was long used to. Despite Miu knowing Himiko was trying to be as active as possible, she was still surprised by the amount of sass Himiko carried.

Maybe there were many unknown facets about Himiko that her apathetic nature before covered all too well. Who knows?

"Then, what the fuck are you doing with that damn rope?" Miu asked, although she knew damn well what it was about. The thing was... Miu had no idea how to deal with it. She wished she could do it like how Kokichi did with Maki, minus the almost death of course.

But people were not Miu's forte. Which was why she hung out with machines more than people. But she still had to do something about this.

Himiko averted her eyes, as she said, "To practice a particular spell that I haven't done in a long while and one of the materials is this rope. But I can't go into detail about it because I signed a contract that if I reveal more than that, I will be cursed. So don't ask anymore. It's none of your business."

Miu knew that Himiko would rather not say anything but it might be better to at least know when, where or who she would murder so by then, Miu could do something about it. But can she actually do that?

No, no she can't. Miu preferred to tread carefully in this case and the number one objective is to act dumb and get out of this alive. But afterwards? She still rather prevent whatever Himiko could possibly be scheming. So...

Actually Miu had an idea. It was a good thing that she kept some inventions round. Mostly for her own protection and with loads unravelling, an invention or two to help with all the teasing threads that come never came amiss. Luckily she had something and with a little modification, one that Kokichi pointed out via his blueprints, it would really help a lot.

"Oh fine. Like I want to know anyway," Miu huffed, now striding towards Himiko as she shoved her away, "If you are done here, I also need to get something."

Himiko brushed off where Miu shoved her and said, irritatingly, "You didn't have to push me."

"You were in the way," Miu said, near dismissively.

"Nyeh," Himiko said irritably but deciding that she had enough, quickly left. Finally.

Miu quickly got her own things, needing to fine tune what she had done to Himiko and for the other things.

For you see, Miu placed a certain tracking chip on Himiko when she bumped into her, which is really unnecessary considering they have their Monopads, and no, Miu doesn't know how they are able to track all of them, not for the lack of trying but after a few frustrated tries, she went on to bigger and better things.

But here's the thing... this tracking chip does more than track. It was one of Kokichi's failsafe modifications, on the account of possible murders they want to prevent.

As far as Miu cared, she was truthfully ambivalent to this type of thing. She personally wouldn't mind if someone died meaning she could live to see another day. It was selfish, but it's just because she just didn't want to die. The 'better them than me' kind of philosophy.

But in these types of circumstances, murder prevention was better off because Miu can't stomach seeing anyone dead anymore either, reminding her painfully of her own mortality. And who really wants anyone dead anyway? For the sake of not seeing another damn body because she totally had enough for her lifetime, Miu would do anything to avoid any murder.

Back to preventing possible murders, Kokichi had blueprinted simple tracking chips with the failsafe of tazing anyone when their adrenaline spikes, the type of adrenaline that could only happen when committing murder. In theory, if someone tries to murder, having that chip on them, they will be immediately shocked and left unconscious for the possible victim to get away.

It will also alert Miu where the would-be killer is so that she could immediately rush to the scene and diffuse the situation, but she rather leave that to Kokichi, or Gonta who was more a people person and able to calm the tension that might happen. Well, the tracker will as soon as she modified her own personal tablet, not the Monopad because she didn't trust that shitty thing but something she made for herself... for personal uses, to wirelessly connect itself to the that chip and etc.

She will also inform them later, as she had better things to do. With hope, she wouldn't run into anybody else, her mood for inventions and the desire to get out of here as fast as possible. 

"I have three more days," Miu reminded herself, "I don't have time to waste."

She was the Ultimate Inventor. She was good with machines and she would use that to her advantage be damned everything.

Suddenly, Motherkuma somehow came to mind and the fact that Tsumugi anticipated it. Miu grimaced as she shook that thought out. She just needed to be fucking subtle, that's all. If she didn't want to be compromised. She can do it.

"What do you have three more days for?"

Miu was on her way back to her Lab when someone asked that question. To her surprise, it was Himiko... again.

"The fuck? Why are you stalking me for?! I know I'm a gorgeous girl genius that people can't get enough for but for you to stoop so low, Yumeno, if you wanted a piece of me, why didn't you just say so?" Miu asked, all that blabber really a distraction from the seed of panic growing inside Miu of what Himiko had possibly heard or wanted.

Himiko was still holding the rope, at least being hung around her shoulders to easily carry but the bottle of chloroform was nowhere to be seen although it could be easily surmised that she put inside her pocket what she can't do for the rope.

Himiko grimaced at those words before she said, "I don't play for the other team. So three days... what are you planning?"

"And what's it for you to know?" Miu asked tersely, "It's my own fucking business."

Himiko crossed her arms, the rope tangling around her arms more although she seemed uncaring of that and said, "Hmm... do you know?"

Himiko's voice was hushed at those last few words, and Miu wondered about that as it came out of the blue, voicing it out loud.

"Know about what? What do you know?" Miu asked pointedly, going for the UNO reverse card trick here and Himiko frowned some more.

"So you don't know...? Or..." Himiko seemed to be thinking as she was analyzing Miu up and down. Miu noticed that as she still kept an eye on the rope that was just lying around Himiko's shoulders that she could potentially use.

It wasn't that Miu thought anyone would be stupid to perform murder in the open space they were now, with the dome the only thing around them, but she wasn't taking her chances either.

"What did you see in your Flashback Light?" Himiko asked, and Miu was, by definition, gob smacked by that question. Because what did that have to do with anything although she really didn't know what Himiko was thinking... except with the Flashback brought up, dour thoughts crossed Miu's mind, the most prevalent one being murder.

After all, her Flashback Light made her want to target Himiko, didn't it? Whose to say Himiko's wasn't about Miu?

But isn't Kiibo's the one about Miu? Or maybe there was more than one person possibly after her? Or maybe, hopefully, it wasn't about murder and-

It seemed Miu was silent for a long while that Himiko took it as some negative and spoke up, "Yeah... if I were you, I wouldn't want to talk about the Flashback Light either."

Himiko hummed noncommittally yet determination set on those usually tired eyes of her, as she continued speaking, "But Atua is telling me that you need to tell me about it. Because if you know too... you can help me, all in Atua's will."

"Atua? Isn't that supposed to be Yonaga's shtick?" Miu asked, because she wholeheartedly believed she and everyone else would be totally done with the religious crap. Apparently not.

"Yes," Himiko said, "But Atua is always there for me when I truly need it, like now. Because that's what Angie always told me and I come for His help in dire times."

Apparently, the art bitch still had one devoted lackey after the entire mess of a cult that called itself Student Council. Luckily, it seemed that Himiko wasn't even preaching like Angie would, but this was by far an unwelcome change. Either way, Miu needed to respond.

"I saw some messed up shit in my Flashback Light, end of story," Miu said, crossing her arms  and keeping it short because every time she even thought about it, chained at who knows where, played with for the sake of despair...

Miu held back a shudder. She knew it wasn't even real, but that damn Flashback Light makes the memory feel all too real and it was something Miu wanted to push far, far away from her mind. Damn those Flashback Lights.

Himiko continued staring at Miu for a long while that made her uncomfortable she just wanted to run away from Himiko and get working in her Lab. In the end, she wasn't cut out for this shit. With dealing with people and their possible problems.

"Nyeh..." Himiko finally said, "So you don't know anything, after all. Too bad, but then... what's so important after three days? What are you up to?"

So Himiko won't drop it. Figures. As much as Miu wanted to do the two can play that game, she wasn't about to rope herself into possible murder and tried to be tactful, something her unfiltered mouth which says whatever she likes because she can, will have to deal with.

Because sometimes some words are best not uttered.

"Again, none of your fucking business. My time is too precious to be wasted by the likes of you," Miu said haughtily, "I have important things to deal with, so if you excuse me..."

She really didn't want to deal with Himiko. Sure what Himiko said only alarmed Miu more, but as far as she cared, Miu didn't know what she could do about it. She wasn't about to confront Himiko, especially not with a murder weapon right within her reach.

After all, she had three more days, maybe less. She can't waste it on this bullshit that Miu knew she can't cope. She could try to probe more out of Himiko but maybe that might end up with Himiko using that rope around her neck as insurance or something else. Sure, it's paranoid to even think like that, but-

"Wait," Himiko suddenly said, her hand now grabbing Miu's own, stopping her at her tracks. Miu's heartbeat quickened unable to comprehend the events happening because just as she thought of her paranoia, this happened to somehow prove it possibly correct.

To make matters worst, that same determined look, more steel in those eyes of Himiko's flashed, only making Miu suppressed a shudder but she was too slow to remove her own hand from Himiko's before she leaned closer towards her and whispered:

"I know what you are thinking," Himiko softly said, sounding threatening nonetheless, "And please, don't tell anyone. I need to do-"

"Iruma-san, there you are!" someone shouted out for both Miu and Himiko to look up and see it was Kiibo running towards them, that Himiko quickly pulled her grip out of Miu's but not before the last word with a suspicious glance.

"You don't say anything about my suspicious activity and I won't say about yours, OK?"

Himiko was slowly backing away from Miu from there, looking at both her and Kiibo alternately. But Himiko kept looking at Miu, with the same determination in her eyes and a raised brow. Miu suddenly realized that Himiko was looking for an answer and mulling things over for a moment, she nodded a subtle yes to Himiko who was satisfied with it and finally ran off before Kiibo could catch up to them.

"Huh?" Kiibo asked, looking at the scampering Himiko as he finally reached Miu, "What was that all about? And why does Yumeno-san have rope?"

At first, Miu was almost going to tell Kiibo everything about what Himiko could possibly be up to, a premediated murder, but then... there was also Himiko's warning. One that Miu would rather avoid at all costs in the long term.

About three days. Miu was sure the mastermind would pick up on that. It wasn't worth the risk, and if Maki was an example, there were still many ways to avoid murder entirely than telling it outright, as Miu could hope.

So Miu lied, "Oh, that, Kiibs? Something about some magic trick involving a rope. Don't know what for. Yumeno's still cagey about her tricks because she thinks it's 'magic'."

Miu finger-quoted that word in something close to mockery. It wasn't that she belittled magicians and the tricks they do, because they were really fun but Miu, as a woman of science, drew the line to believing magic in the sense of mumbo jumbo sorcery, actually exist and which Himiko always preached. Yet, Kiibo was giving her a disapproving look at Miu for the mockery even though it's true.

"You shouldn't make fun of Yumeno-san like that. It's incomprehensible for her tricks to be real magic, but if that is what Yumeno-san believes, it shouldn't be something to make fun of," Kiibo said, and at the very least despite the light scolding, Kiibo didn't seem to doubt Miu's lie. Now, Kiibo was holding Miu's hand and dragging her to the Academy.

"You haven't had any breakfast. And you weren't at the Lab, so I tried to find you," Kiibo sighed, "Let's go to the dining hall. You should eat something."

"But I'm not hungry, Kiibs," Miu protested just when her stomach decided to growl. Miu flushed at the sound as if her rebellion against basic needs made her stomach call out in protest. Tch, and it only made Kiibo grip her shoulders as he steered her toward the Academy.

"Whatever you are doing can wait," Kiibo said gently, "Your needs matter the most. You won't be able to do anything if you are suffering from hunger pangs."

"Bullshit to that. Nothing stops the great Miu Iruma from making the best inventions in the world. Inventing is the only thing that I need and I don't need a fuck else, so let me go 'coz I have lotta stuff to do and I ain't wasting my time anymore than I hafta!" Miu declared, but Kiibo was surprisingly firm with Miu.

"You know that isn't true. I might be a robot, but I do understand human's basic needs and that you cannot function well without them. Why don't you eat something and satisfy that hunger of yours so you can be at your 100% while working your inventions?" Kiibo said in a gentle and firm tone.

Miu huffed, unable to shake Kiibo's grip and was defeated, "Fine. But the stuff better be good for me to chow down that's stopping me from continuing working on my babies."

Kiibo smiled at that as he said, "I'm sure it will be. I will make sure to cook you something special to make it worth your while."

"You... cook?" Miu asked, as Kiibo gave an offended look that flashed quickly to a neutral one.

"I've been learning. After what happened to Toujou-san, I thought that maybe someone should learn to cook something nice once in a while for everyone else. And isn't cooking a good skill to have when we get out of here? Cooking for others and taking care of people, maybe when I can have my own family..."

The last part was said by Kiibo in a wistful tone, and Miu wondered why Kiibo would jump the gun so quickly for that stage of life when she remembered one time Kiibo went to her with the idea of making babies, accompanied by Shuichi back then.

They were so close to doing something, like inventing something that can pop babies out of Kiibo, when Shuichi, party pooper he can be, immediately rejected that idea vehemently.

He doesn't know a good idea when he sees one, and Kiibo was so close to agreeing with that idea too...

Either way, it was a nice sentiment that Miu can relate but enough of that mushy stuff when she said, "Then I'm expecting great food. So what'cha gonna make?"

As Kiibo went on talking, Miu's thoughts wandered briefly around Himiko. Himiko going to...

She needed to work on that wireless transmission of that chip she stuck on Himiko and she should ask Kokichi and maybe even Gonta their opinion on how to stop this, as at least Kokichi was successful dissuading Maki, despite it being after the fact.

There was also the thing about the Four, and despite this new detour to the dining hall, at least Miu got the materials needed and then she could finally start. But really, Himiko...

Who said it was going to be easy anyway? Best she could do was keep an eye on Himiko with the way Miu knew how, at the same time, start off with the Four if they had any chance of really escaping this hellhole.

But for now, and whether she liked it or not, it will have to wait, as Miu was seated in the dining hall, and Kiibo promising to whip up something quick he recently learned, that she was only left with her thoughts.

She wondered how the others were faring...

***

"I have absolutely no idea what you are talking about," Kaito said, to a snickering Kokichi as both were still walking around the Academy in search of Maki.

"The cat is literally out of the bag, there's no point denying it. I just can't believe Kaito Momota actually planned something. But it's probably something idiotic like standing up against Monokuma with a bunch of weapons. Like that will make any damn difference," Kokichi snorted.

"Facing against Monokuma is not idiotic!" Kaito declared and Kokichi let out an amused snort. Kokichi wasn't surprised by this outburst. After all, Miu had told both Kokichi and Gonta quite frankly about Kaito's plans of weapons and Monokuma, not dissimiliar with what Kokichi had asked before, tell the truth.

But there was a lie somewhere there. After all, there were some differences between Kaito's plan and Kokichi's back then, now changed after too many circumstances.

Kokichi asked for specific inventions out of Miu, finding weaknesses out of Monokuma. Kaito just asked for anything, any invention out of Miu trusting her knowledge of inventions themselves to make the right ones for them.

Both have said, in no uncertain terms, that it was to take down Monokuma. Kaito meant that literally. Kokichi... obviously did not. He lied somewhere in those terms and agreements back then when he was asked the reason for making the Electrohammers, Electrobombs and override remote.

Because among the many things that Kokichi prided himself was that he was not an idiot. After all, defeating Monokuma would not solve the problem whatsoever anyway. Had Kaito seriously forgotten the fact that Monokuma can be revived? At the very beginning, they were already shown Monokuma utterly crushed by an Exisal to be revived at the very next day.

Something to drill in their skulls that Monokuma is 'immortal' and thus cannot be defeated, something Kaito failed to remember, in hope? Desperation? Who knows?

But for now, that was neither here nor there, only affirming that Kokichi was definitely smarter than Kaito. Make no mistake of that, because Kokichi would die of shame if he was actually dumber than Kaito. Or that was dramatic exaggeration. But it's a lie too, or is it the truth? Alright, moving forward from his obviously complicated and chaotic back and forth that was his mind...

There were things needed to be addressed in this simplistic plan of Kaito. That it was going to put more people in danger than Kaito could ever dream of, and even hinder the KGB's plans, considering the mastermind would also go along with Kaito's obvious plans and use it to her advantage. That was what the KGB did not want.

Now, here Kokichi stood, with everything he knew, he needed to do something about this before this could be used as a piece by Tsumugi in this game, something Kokichi wanted to prevent at all cost.

So, right now, at Kaito's outburst, Kokichi simply hummed, as they were still walking, looking for killer girl. He decided to give out his thoughts, straight out. He will start from there and branch out.

"But it kinda is, you know?" Kokichi asked out loud to Kaito's declaration, after a moment of silence mulling over his thoughts, "After all, that plush bear is packing some serious firepower, Exisals and all that. Fighting Monokuma means to fight the Exisals and didn't we discourage Gonta from doing something like that days ago? And now you are suggesting the same thing. Is Momota-chan having some short term memory loss?"

Kokichi used logic and reason for this, as he usually would but his classmates, letting bias against him although not unfounded, disregard harsh truth brought out by infallible logic without any sugarcoating empathy from a liar like him. That just meant they were a bunch of close minded fools, but at the same time, who can blame them for something as simple as not listening to a proclaimed adroit liar?

"I do not have short term memory loss," Kaito denied immediately, "And it isn't anything like Gonta. After all, Iruma is going to make a bunch of weapons that could help us defeat the Exisals and then we can defeat Monokuma, demanding our freedom back!"

"Wow," Kokichi lied through his teeth, fake stars in his eyes, "So confident, Momota-chan. But hmm.... hmm... man vs machine, you know? That age old question, and everyone knows whose really going to win. The Exisals, of course, because everyone knows robots are unfortunately superior and which is why people are so afraid of the robot invasion! Yeah... one day, we are all going to be ruled over by the likes of Kii-boy and you will all be sorry for not taking me seriously that Kii-boy's a major threat but I for one am not going to push for the robot invasion, especially with your plan, Momota-chan. Nuh uh, no way, not in a bazillion years."

"What the hell does a robot invasion have to do with anything?" Kaito asked exasperated, and then continued speaking before Kokichi could answer, "And Kiibo's our friend, much more than you with your usual bullshit and lies causing so much trouble. Also, you are not going to defeat Monokuma with that attitude of yours. The impossible is possible! All you gotta do is make it so!"

Kokichi rolled his eyes, but there was stupid determination in Kaito's eyes now.

"After all," Kaito intoned with some finality, some grit and determination, "It's only impossible if we don't altogether do something about it. Ouma, now that you know, I might as well as put this out in the open. I know you hate cooperating with others and making other people's lives hell but you better not pull any shit with this. We need you and everyone else to defeat Monokuma. You got that?"

Kokichi's eyes widened at those words, as quickly analyzing them he could only come up with, "What? Why the hell do you want to work with your mortal enemy? I thought you hate my guts and the feeling is mutual."

After all, although not the same scale as Maki, it was true that Kaito hated Kokichi. It was even pretty evident during their time in the VR world. They were like oil and water but surprisingly, Kaito shook his head at that statement.

"I hate you, yes. But mortal enemies, no," Kaito pursed his lips, "Look man, the only enemy is Monokuma and those annoying Monokubs, but the rest of us, who are kidnapped and stuck in this killing game, we should be in this together. Not let ourselves be pitted against each other like the bear wants. Just because some of us hate each other, mostly because of you, that doesn't mean we shouldn't work together as people of the same situation so we can escape together."

Knowing Kaito and his earnestness, that could only be the truth and Kokichi detected no lie in it. He couldn't help but inwardly smirk and groan at the same time from Kaito's statement. How... hero like that Kaito's statement is, solidifying the shouen manga protagonist trope Kokichi sees in Kaito... and hates with a passion.

Kaito's sentiment made sense, don't get Kokichi wrong, but it rubs him the wrong way. How he believes everything could just be so easy. That this type of plot they were living now would be that easy, of the typical hero vs villain, them vs Monokuma and of hero plot armor with a happy ending.

What plot armor? What happy ending? Kokichi was no psychic, but he was completely aware, in this killing game, in this show that their kidnappers watched with perverse pleasure of real life gore?

There was no plot armor for heroes here. There would be no happy endings.

Or could that be turned into a lie?

Eventually, the boys were actually in the casino as Kaito's eyes roved around for Maki but was still concentrated in his conversation with Kokichi.

He can still see Kaito's determination. It was funny, but sad. Despite all the differences, no matter what Kaito really feels for the person, because they were stuck in the same situation, feelings were put aside for the greater good.

This is something that Kokichi would never admit but he and Kaito despite being closer to polar opposites than anyone else here, were also similar in a few veins. In their determination, in their 'righteousness'. Only their methods were polar opposite.

Kokichi decided to use this similarity to give him an edge as he closed his eyes and faked a disinterested persona for Kaito, choosing to gauge the reactions to come.

"Oh for the love of Atua," Kokichi started, faking a yawn, "Please don't turn this into some kind of intervention. There is no way I'm helping you, especially since I will be betrayed anyway."

"Betrayed? What the hell are you talking about?" Kaito asked immediately, although a stutter in his voice was heard throughout and that was enough for Kokichi to raise his eyebrows.

"Do you really not think there wouldn't be an inside man in this killing game working for the enemy? Otherwise how would all this happen? It wasn't that if the bear didn't simply invite itself here without any help, don't you think?"

"What bullshit!" Kaito immediately exclaimed, "Why the hell would anyone help bring that bear here knowing full well what it will do?!"

"Who knows? Unless they are part of that cult and you know how unreasonable that cult is..." Kokichi said, appealing to Kaito with the story given and believed in even if Kokichi was quite sure what a lie it is. But he's a liar and here comes his forte.

"No one is part of that damn cult!" Kaito exclaimed suddenly, shocking Kokichi but eliciting a cheeky smile out of him all the same.

"Ooo, did I strike a nerve?" Kokichi cooed, "But how can you be so sure? Monokuma couldn't come from nowhere, you know? And with how tightly secured the Gofer Project is, only an inside person could take the reins with that bear."

"And your plan..." Kokichi said, darkly, "If you involve everyone, whose to say someone, that same inside person, won't betray you? And your plan failing back to square one? Of course I don't want to be involved with that kind of stupidity. Stupidity that could get me and everyone else killed. Not my thing."

"For the last time, no one will get killed. Do you really have to make things so difficult, you damn brat?" Kaito asked, seeming to find a well of patience while dealing with Kokichi.

"Yep," Kokichi said, simply, "That's a part of my character after all. And even after all this, you still want to go with your plan, you still want me there when I could very well be the traitor. Has that even occurred to you Momota-chan?"

Kaito was silent for a while before saying, "You aren't the traitor. Whoever it is wouldn't be stupid enough to tell anyone about it, so it's another one of your lies. And even if there is a traitor... I will confront them and smack some sense into them so they will help us escape instead!"

"So... you do think there is a traitor," Kokichi said, tilting his head, "You knew all along, maybe from your Flashback Light?"

"Wha- how... how do you know?!" Kaito demanded and Kokichi had another bullet in his arsenal from this which he was quick to use against Kaito.

"You just told me," Kokichi chirped, "Thanks for that. So much for Momota-chan who believes in everyone, huh?"

"Shut up," Kaito growled, "Don't tell anyone about this."

"And why should I do that?" Kokichi asked, unbothered, "Give me one good reason why someone like me would do anything like that?"

But Kaito was surprisingly quick with his answer, as he crossed his arms and looked smug, saying, "You knew about the traitor too, but you didn't even tell anyone except me. If you didn't tell everyone before, why tell them now?"

Sometimes, it was forgotten by many people that Kaito can actually be smart, when he was not emotional.

"Good point, I give ya that. But I'm more sure than anything that all you have going for you is a suicidal mission, because do you really think that whoever the traitor is would really let this slide? Do you honestly think it's that easy to defeat Monokuma with the Exisals hanging around? You couldn't even convince me to join you! So much for your plan, huh?" Kokichi said, shaking his head.

"Oh yeah? But I'm just getting started. Of course none of this is going to be easy, but I will prove to you that I will convince the traitor to our side. I will defeat Monokuma without the Exisals even noticing! And you will join me. In fact, you will be my new sidekick!" Kaito declared.

"What the fuck?" Kokichi asked, surprised by this sudden turn of events. Extending a hand to someone Kaito rather avoid and hate? That was certainly new.

Kaito seemed contemplative as he finally settled, "I have actually been thinking about this for a while. Sure, you are always a pain in the ass, but you are not totally bad. Annoying, but so far, it's not as if you've done anything seriously evil. You saying you are evil could be a lie. And you are smart, even if you use it only to be a complete ass to us. In fact, I should have done this sooner! So you could change for the better and help us instead of being a little shit."

"I am the Ultimate Supreme Leader, you himbo. I'm no one's sidekick," Kokichi frowned, but he felt like he could use this. Kaito was oddly open minded towards Kokichi at this moment, even with his vain attempts of bringing Kokichi to Kaito's side.

So far, Kokichi had been planting doubt in Kaito's mind, even though he was sure that he could never dissuade Kaito from his ridiculous plan, but at least to make sure he was cautious, aware... Having Kaito trying to convince Kokichi to his side was a whole other ballgame, but he could use this to his advantage as well. Which was why he probed using it, coupled with doubts in a form of a challenge.

Kokichi challenging Kaito with himself and the validity of the plan, which would give him reins as the challenger and strings to hold onto as a puppeteer because thanks to Kaito's stubbornness and pride, Kokichi would be the one he wanted most to prove, as a hero who believes he could sway a villain to his side, a hero who goes through a plan and wants to prove it's success to a skeptical soon to be comrade. Kokichi was going to be a reminder, a doubt that Kaito would want to defeat.

Suddenly, Kokichi was pulled out of his thoughts when Kaito said, "But you are. And I will prove it to you, Ouma. You will be working with us in no time and I will prove you wrong about my plan and the traitor."

Kokichi smiled, because that meant Kaito really took the challenge. He really had Kaito exactly where he wanted, a piece that was not the mastermind's.

"Go ahead and try," Kokichi said cheerily, "But I tell you it won't be easy convincing a villain like me, although you did something to murder girl over there although doubtful. But it's completely different for me, scrub!"

"Oi, Harumaki isn't a villain and neither are you," Kaito said firmly, "Isn't that right, Haru- wait... oi! Damn it Ouma!"

Because Kokichi used that moment when Kaito was looking where Kokichi pointed out Maki who wasn't there at all to escape his clutches and do what he was set to do in the first place. Although the time he spent with Kaito wasn't much a waste either. If anything, Kokichi could avert any more dangerous risks of Kaito's plan and be the brakes Kaito would be looking for when he seems dead set to make him a sidekick.

A minor inconvenience but necessary, because for some people in this game, it's better to work on them directly than through the shadows, just like in the case of Kaito, one of the biggest game changers no matter way you look at it. Of course, he won't confide to Kaito in anything, unlike Miu and Gonta that they became the KGB. Kokichi did not trust Kaito enough nor was he forced into giving the truth, so there's no reason to involve him that deeply, but he had to make sure to be careful at that part.

Luckily, Kokichi was a master of hide and seek so he can make himself known to Kaito when needed but otherwise be free to do anything else he really needed to do without any disturbances. Of course, Kaito would most likely tell of this encounter to both Maki and Shuichi, but that wasn't much of a problem. For one, he really didn't give himself away much, and another thing nothing can be done about this development anyway. It's a part of Kaito's stubbornness after all.

Although he was sure he would be confronted by both Maki and Shuichi by this, but he knew he could handle it. Having snatched a piece from the mastermind was worth it.

Of course he had to be careful, but he had to take as much advantages as he can in a game where the opponent already had all the pieces before Kokichi himself snatched as much away in return.

Right now, Kokichi was checking the Monopad, to see Tsumugi was still occupied far away from her room. Right now, he better make it quick to check any leftover information that Tsumugi might be lying around.

He wondered though, whether Tsumugi would be really that careless in leaving anything lying around, as he lockpicked his way into a neat and basically plain room. No decorations or anything to even spark any differences between other rooms, like Kokichi's cluttered one or Kiibo's room with his robot necessities.

"Now, let's see what we have in store for us?" Kokichi asked as he rubbed his hands together in anticipation.

As he had so far expected, the room had nothing worthy of note. He was right not to underestimate the mastermind, because although he was checking her room to at least make sure, she wasn't stupid enough to leave anything important lying around he-

As that thought was running through his head, Kokichi was opening through drawers to see a tablet that seemed to be randomly stuffed in among messy piles of clothes which Kokichi would not have otherwise noticed if it wasn't sticking out to him the moment he opened the drawer.

'Never mind, seems Shirogane-chan is stupid enough to have something important lying around here. Maybe she had no choice... hmm...' Kokichi thought as he took the tablet for himself, and messing around with the piles of clothes, he saw there were actually multiple tablets, 16 exactly.

'For what purpose?' Kokichi thought as he examined the tablet closely and saw at the back taped onto it was the name 'Korekiyo Shinguji'.

And then Kokichi realised. 16 tablets, names... Kokichi looked through each and everyone of the tablets, until he found his own. One with the name 'Kokichi Ouma', because if he was to discover something, might as well start with himself.

And then, he turned his tablet on.

***

Bouncing ideas off with Shuichi was a great thing to do, opening more paths for Gonta's mind about possibilities that could be. But they weren't getting any farther either, with the limited information they had.

"I'm supposed to be the Ultimate Detective," Shuichi sighed after talking and coming up with nothing about their predicament, "But I'm no closer to solving this mystery. If there was some kind of clue, something, and then..."

Gonta put a comforting hand on Shuichi's shoulder, trying to ease the distress he could feel from the detective.

"Saihara-kun has already done enough," Gonta said gently, "After all, Saihara-kun is trying to solve killing game mystery and to get everyone out. Saihara-kun should be proud of that."

Shuichi smiled a little at Gonta's encouragement, "I know that, but trying isn't enough. After everything we have been through, the despair..."

Shuichi shook his head a little at that word, "I can't let despair overcome us. With what the Gofer Project is and what it truly means..."

"Saihara-kun knows that you don't have to do it alone, right? Gonta will help. Others will help. We don't want this too."

Shuichi relaxed at that, "I... know that, but now more than ever..."

Then, he gave a look at Gonta and reading off his face, he was surprised to see many flickering emotions: determination, suspicion, hesitation, willful, fear before it finally settled into something joyful.

"Thanks for hanging out with me, Gonta-kun. I've felt like I understood more than before."

"Gonta just glad to help," Gonta said, smiling too before Shuichi shrugged off Gonta's grip and waved goodbye.

"I think I better do some more investigation, especially after the Flashback Lights. They were leading to something... I know it..." Shuichi said, the last part mumbled out to himself which Gonta caught but did not comment.

Instead he asked, "Does Saihara-kun want help?"

Shuichi snapped out of his daze and said politely, "Ah... no. It's not that I don't appreciate your help but..."

Shuichi was having his hand near his head as if some habit before realizing there was nothing to grab and putting his hand back down before saying, "There are just somethings that I have to confirm for myself."

"... Does it have to do with the motive?" Gonta asked, a worried tone lacing his voice. After everything, Gonta unfortunately cannot see any shady actions like these as a precedence to murder. He knew Shuichi could very well lie, but he just wanted to hear something from him at the same time.

"... It is," Shuichi admitted, before saying defensively, "But that doesn't mean I won't go killing anyone. You and everyone else are all my friends. Especially after Amami-kun and Akamatsu-san, I don't want anything like that happening!"

Gonta smiled a little. He didn't know what to believe but more often than not, he wanted to trust the sincerity in Shuichi's voice and smiled, "Yeah, Saihara-kun. Gonta don't want it either."

Shuichi smiled at that, his hand seeming to go back at that spot near his head in shyness before saying, "Yeah... goodbye."

And Shuichi left, to which Gonta turned around the other way. Did he believe in Shuichi? He wanted to.

So does that make him a bad person that he's going to rely on his bugs that were still watching everyone discreetly just in case Shuichi was lying and something would go down?

Gonta made his decision a long time ago, with the urge to protect all his friends and always being there, and he had come to that conclusion, but putting surveillance on his friends... it never went well with his conscience although he told himself it was for the greater good.

He hoped. But Gonta now shook his head, thinking that it was safe to cross Shuichi out of the lost of ADR people, and then thought of those left. There should be Himiko, Kaito, Kiibo and... Maki. Tsumugi was out by default because she was also aiming for that ADR member... for entirely different reasons than the KGB.

Back to Maki, sure she tried to kill Kokichi, but he can't discount any possibilities, could he? And a part of him was hoping that Maki could be an ally, especially after what she did. So they could work together instead of fighting amongst her and Kokichi despite their ceasefire. It could dissolve that tension.

He checked the Monopad for the time before seeing that he still had a few hours before the screening, and knew he could check up on either Kaito, Himiko or Maki if they weren't too busy, hoping that one of them would be the ADR.

But before he could check up the locations, he bumped into someone and that was Maki who seemed equally shocked to see him. Awkward silence ensued before Gonta cleared his throat and tried to disperse it.

"Hello, Harukawa-san. How are you?" Gonta asked.

"Fine," Maki said shortly, before she sidestepped Gonta and went on her way but Gonta called out to her.

"Do you know Momota-kun is looking for you? Gonta think he worried. Maybe Harukawa-san should talk to him," Gonta suggested.

"That's none of your business," Maki said curtly, "Is that idiot still really looking for me?"

"Gonta don't know, but Gonta think Momota-kun is still looking for Harukawa-san. Momota-kun always cares for his friends," Gonta said.

Maki nodded, as she blushed, "Yes... yes he does. But I don't want to talk to him, or anyone else for the matter. So if you will excuse me..."

"Wait a minute, Harukawa-san," Gonta said. He wasn't normally one to push anything, as he's always a respectful gentleman, but not only did he want to inquire whether Maki was a part of ADR, he wanted to settle the growing awkwardness between them and help fix whatever is happening between Kaito and Maki.

Maybe the reason why Maki ran away from Kaito back then, so tight lipped was because of the incident last night. Among the many reasons why he should talk to Maki.

"What is it? If Momota is still on the prowl, I have to hide. I don't want to see him yet," Maki said.

"Why?" Gonta asked, "What's wrong that you avoiding Momota-kun?"

"I already told you it's none of your own business. Why do you insist on prying?" Maki asked, before her eyes narrowed, "Is it because of Ouma?"

"No," Gonta said firmly, "Gonta only doing this because Gonta worried that what happening between you and Momota-kun was because of yesterday. Because Gonta don't want that be reason for Harukawa-san to distance herself from Momota-kun, when Momota-kun didn't do anything wrong."

He knew that yesterday had taken a toll on Maki. She was so silent last night, after everything was said and done. And this morning... well, so it came to this.

"Also, Gonta just want to talk with Harukawa-san after everything last night. If Harukawa-san is alright, and to try befriending you. Because Gonta want to be friends with everyone and hope that last night didn't change that. That's all."

After all, it might have taken Kaede's words at the very first day to encourage all of them to become friends once they escape during their time at the Death Road of Despair, but it always took root in his heart and it will never change.

And one thing about becoming friends with the others, as he continued spending time with each and everyone of them, was wanting the best for them.

After all, what Kokichi had done to Maki, right as it was in self defense was wrong with the threatening. Of course, Gonta didn't know what to do at that time when the tension between both could be cut with a butter knife, but right now, all the consequences, feelings and doubts of last night needed to be cleared for Maki.

Since there's a difference between persuading and blackmailing someone to one's side, the difference between willing and unwilling. Gonta wanted to make sure that Maki, who had promised not to kill Kokichi, to do some favors, meant it truly instead of under threat.

Because that would be the best for both the KGB and Maki herself.

"You... really..." Maki said, at a lost of words before she weighed her options and started Gonta up and down, still in thought. Finally she sighed as she said:

"You are really too nice for your own good, but... you are right about Momota. Momota doesn't have to know, but he should stop worrying over someone like me. And... last night, huh?"

Maki looked thoughtful before leaving it there and once again walked away, but she called out, "Well, I'm going to look for Momota. Do you want to come along?"

"Harukawa-san..." Gonta said, happy that he was able to break a barrier of Maki's cold exterior enough to actually hang out with her, "OK."

Thus, they were both searching for Kaito, a silence wrought between them, until one broke it.

"Do you believe him?" Maki asked out of nowhere, "About Monokuma? About him having no power despite being the mastermind?"

Gonta knew Maki meant about Kokichi there. There was a lot he wanted to say but couldn't. The rules set, the deadly consequences. Gonta couldn't tell Maki the whole truth, but at least he could tell her what he believed.

"Well..." Gonta said, "Yes Gonta believe in Ouma-kun, because Gonta don't think Ouma-kun mastermind in first place. It make more sense to Gonta that Monokuma do this killing game alone, because Monokuma only enemy."

"But there has to be a mastermind. How else did this game even start up? And if Ouma isn't the mastermind, then who?" Maki argued back.

"Gonta think..." Gonta said, "Maybe there no mastermind, at least in here. Because if mastermind here, they risk themselves being killed. Why would anyone do such a big risk? Doesn't make sense to Gonta."

Of course, there was a lie that there was no mastermind here, but there was a truth that he wondered why anyone would risk themselves willingly to be here when they could be killed any moment.

Because it really never made sense as to why Tsumugi had done it. Sure she had never been suspected at all and if it weren't for Kokichi's revelations that Gonta was privy to after he and Miu tried being close to him, he would have never known at all.

But what if Tsumugi had been found out? By someone like Maki? Tsumugi would have ended up dead. And whose to say Tsumugi wouldn't even be targeted once in a while for more mundane reasons because they were in a killing game after all?

It was just another mystery that he needed to solve about Tsumugi, but he knew that could be done later when he watched that rom-com with Kiibo and her.

But for now, he looked at Maki who seemed to be mulling over what Gonta said, and spoke up, "That is true. But what if Ouma was a traitor instead? Monokuma was stowed away into here and only one of us could have done it. Who says it wasn't him?"

Was Maki really that stubborn in thinking about the evil of Kokichi? Could Gonta do anything to change her mind about that?

He had to try at least.

"But who says it was him, Harukawa-san?" Gonta asked, "Because it still doesn't make sense to Gonta. Traitor or mastermind, why... why would they involve themselves in this killing game, instead... hiding away somewhere like the first killing game? Wouldn't that be safer for them?"

Truthfully, this was something Gonta gave a lot of thought, in regards to Tsumugi ever since he had wrapped his mind around that she was the mastermind.

Because Gonta understood there were bad people in the world, and despite blatantly knowing that about Tsumugi, Gonta was still trying to find reasons why. So he could understand her better.

Like how he understood the other bad people in this killing game. Thus the reason that Gonta was able to put out such a theory. Although there were certainly questions there he wanted answered, but again, until the rom-com even with Kiibo there.

Maki seemed surprised at Gonta's theory but that's because most actually underestimated how smart Gonta can truly be.

Because Gonta was quite humble about his intelligence, as he felt inexperienced using it in situations like those in the killing game, when others seemed more proficient in it which Gonta chalked up to life in civilisation compared to the wild.

So, he usually left it up to them, leaving it to Gonta simply believing and helping whenever he could.

But now, with more experience at hand, Gonta was able to step up his game and hoped it was enough to complete his purpose as of now and what's to come.

Then, Maki answered, "Are you thinking there's a 17th student hiding inside this Academy? But even then... Ouma..."

"Harukawa-san, do you really think that bad of Ouma-kun?" Gonta asked, to which was only met with silence that all but confirmed what Maki thought and Gonta sighed inwardly at that. Despite not wanting to believe it, it had always been obvious after all, the animosity between Kokichi and Maki.

Gonta continued nevertheless, "Maybe Ouma-kun not as bad as you think. After all, only Monokuma enemy here. Wouldn't it be better... if we all work together?"

"What? Do you want to die?" Maki asked, a grimace already forming on her face. At Gonta's flinch, she continued, "That was a joke. But, you mean, me... work with him?"

"And the others," Gonta amended, "Because everyone trying so hard to find way out of killing game. Other than killing someone."

At this point, Gonta knew he could use this to check whether Maki was truly ADR and push her in the right direction. For Maki to sincerely not kill anyone else regardless the threat they pose.

Gonta knew words might not be enough, and actions usually speak louder than words but he lacked opportunity for any action appropriate to convince Maki. So he had to rely on words now, that they could at least give that small step into something bigger.

"Doesn't Harukawa-san have any other idea to escape out the killing game? You don't have to find that out all on your own. Let others help you. Maybe... there also people outside here that help us end killing game, so Harukawa-san no need to kill anyone."

"What do you mean?" Maki asked, and with this, with no spark of recognition of people outside nor in helping to end the killing game, the possibility that Maki was an ADR got lower. But Gonta continued the conversation nevertheless.

"Gonta discussed this with Saihara-kun before. That people from Gofer Project would be worried about us, right? Maybe they trying to save us from outside."

"Maybe," Maki said, "But now we are completely isolated. No one is helping us now."

"Except for each other," Gonta added.

Maki nodded at that statement, "Yeah. I know."

Once again, silence reign superior between the duo, with Maki collecting her thoughts as Gonta did the same with his own. While processing the conversation, Gonta could only wonder that whatever he said would stick with Maki and she would understand where he was coming from.

He knew that he wasn't all that close with Maki, yet despite that, he wanted his words to mean something.

"Gonta, do you really believe in us that much? Believe in Ouma? Believe in me? Why?" Maki suddenly asked.

Gonta answered honestly, "Gonta does believe in everyone. Because Gonta believe in good of everyone, that no one want anything bad from others. That because we all stuck in same situation, we can work together and no one will die."

"But people have died," Maki pointed out, "And not everyone is good. You are not being realistic. Look at me, an assassin, who you were scared of along with the others and only friendly now because of Momota and Saihara. Do you really believe in the good of an assassin?"

Maki narrowed her eyes after such a statement, as if she was testing Gonta. For what reason is unknown, but Gonta answered honestly still, uncaring what Maki really wanted out of him as long as he could help Maki in some way.

"Harukawa-san is Harukawa-san, not only an assassin. And Gonta seen you with Momota-kun and Saihara-kun. Bad people like assassin wouldn't treat them like that, like friends. So Gonta believe in good of you, not an assassin," Gonta said.

"And Ouma?" Maki asked.

"Gonta believe in the good of Ouma-kun too. Because Ouma-kun hasn't done anything really bad yet."

Minus the VR fiasco, what Kokichi had done although inappropriate within their situation, could be summed up to harmless pranks and big talk that just riles the others up. As far as Gonta knew.

"How naive," Maki sighed, giving one last look at Gonta before roaming her eyes around for Kaito once more and not even bothering to elaborate. So Gonta had to speak up again.

"So, Harukawa-san, will you work together with everyone?" Gonta finally asked.

"I have already done that. The only one who hasn't is Ouma," Maki said shortly.

"If that true," Gonta said slowly, "If you really work together with others, others who don't want anyone to kill, then why Harukawa-san went and try to kill Ouma-kun anyway?"

Maki didn't even look remorseful. Just calm and collected as she said, "I thought he was the mastermind. That if I kill him, the killing game would end and we can all go free. It was just the easiest way to end things."

"Easiest," Gonta echoed, "But not right. Harukawa-san, if you killed Ouma-kun, if you were wrong... don't you know what would happen to you?"

Maki was silent, but it was obvious of what would happen, and Gonta continued.

"No one would want that, Harukawa-san. Ouma-kun had the right idea, you know? Killing not way to end this. Harukawa-san," Gonta said sadly, "Shouldn't you believe in others and really work with them instead of doing things alone? Because others also care about your well-being, want you to do right thing and killing isn't that."

"Believe in others..." Maki repeated softly, "Why are you telling me this?"

Gonta answered honestly, "Because Gonta hope Harukawa-san meant it when she said that she won't kill Ouma-kun. Because Gonta not sure whether you meant it when you told Ouma-kun so last night. So Gonta thought if Gonta tried to tell you peacefully, Harukawa-san would understand better and really won't kill anyone."

"Persuasion instead of blackmail, huh?" Maki quipped and Gonta nodded.

"I see," Maki said, "Gonta... thank you."

"For what?" Gonta asked.

"For telling me all that."

Gonta tried to get Maki to elaborate but she wouldn't repeat herself, finally focused solely on finding Kaito, which Gonta followed suit. He could see Maki thinking, maybe about his words or maybe about something else.

Gonta didn't know whatever he done here meant anything, but he was glad that he tried anyway. For Maki's sake and her well-being, just like what he would have done if it were anyone else.

And he would keep trying. Keep making sure. As long as he successfully prevented murders and got out of here with all of them alive.

Chapter Text

Whose a genius? Miu Iruma is, duh doy!

Because she finally perfected one of the inventions that could help her take down one of the Four.

It took some time but Miu finally did it after a few other inventions. Since she could make those inventions in her sleep, it took no time at all.

It was the modifications that proved tricky but being the genius she was, it didn't even need loads of time compared to other less genius inventors.

Now, she could get to one of the Four after the distractions of Himiko and Kiibo, one unwelcome and another welcome. Because, damn, Kiibo would definitely be a good family man. The pancakes were so fluffy and delicious.

So determinedly, Miu thought as she mentally prepared herself, 'Now or never. You can do this.'

She can't believe she was doing this, but she had to sacrifice a few things for the long game. So here goes nothing.

"Monokubs!" Miu called out, cringing as she said those words aloud. To her and the rest of the students, they were a nuisance, at best and at worst. No two ways about it. Even the word felt wrong in her tongue and she still can't believe she was doing this.

But it was too late to take it back, as they really appeared out of nowhere, once again. The last two, Monotaro and Monophanie as they did their little shtick and then got down to business.

"Did you call for us?" Monophanie asked.

"Yeah, what do you want from us? Shouldn't you just call Daddy?" Monotaro asked.

Miu had her excuse ready and immediately put it out without any hesitation.

"All I want is just to check up on you. Is that wrong?" Miu asked.

"And why would you want to do that?" Monophanie asked, staring at Miu shrewdly.

"Yeah, why?" Monotaro piped up, copying Monophanie's stare toward Miu.

Miu had to think fast and flashbacked to a moment which gave her the smartass idea to blurt out:

"Because Mommy cares about your well-being, that's all."

Yeah, Miu will have to admit that by far, this was a very stupid excuse that she can't even. But at the same time, it was the only connection she had with the Monokubs, granted with only Monotaro.

It was not that she can outright destroy them despite their being no rules about it, but whose to say that if she destroyed them, Monokuma wouldn't use this as an excuse to retaliate against Miu and punish her?

Because even if Monokuma couldn't use the Exisals, whose to say he can't punish her any other way to death for destroying the Monokubs?

After all, that bear pulled executions out of damn nowhere. No way was she risking anything, especially when she already had a noose around her neck. Damn being targeted for her genius!

So connecting to the Monokubs, that was the safest bet Miu could take. And being a Mommy might appeal to them more than anything, who knows? With Monokuma's attitude towards them and the Monokubs attitude, this could be a cinch.

"But you are not our Mommy," Monophanie said crossly.

Or not.

"Yeah, you are not- wait, are you?" Monotaro asked, his forgetfulness suddenly rearing it's head as he looked questioningly at Miu, trying to figure something.

Monophanie hit Monotaro in the head, saying, "She is not your Mommy. We only have a Daddy and his name is Monokuma!"

"Wait, we have a Daddy?" Monotaro asked and Monophanie sighed in distress as if unable to keep up with this stupidity.

Neither could Miu, really. Their stupidity really reaches the level of gags that just felt too stale and too annoying.

But she also knew she needed them. They are the only ones that could control the Exisals so if she had to put up with all this annoying shit, then so be it.

Miu knelt down toward them, "But don't you want a Mommy? A Mommy that would love and take care of you instead of your Daddy. And he wasn't really a very good Daddy, is he?"

"Don't talk about Daddy like that," Monophanie argued back, very angry now, "He's the best Daddy ever. He always forgives and loves us."

"Oh yeah?" Miu said, "And what about the other Monokubs? Would such a Daddy let your siblings die like that?"

Both Monokubs were silent at that, and Miu can't blame that. There was no argument to the type of bullshit Monokuma pulled, with only this whole killing game the top of the list and suffering terrible bear puns at the bottom but no less aggravating. Seriously, those puns are unbearable, and they catch like a virus you obviously don't want.

And abusing the Monokubs, be them annoying brats or a nuisance, was still obviously not right anyway. Sure they were robots, and despite them not having humanlike features like Kiibo, it doesn't mean they did not have their own AIs with personalities and emotions similar to that of human.

And that's the final nail that made it wrong. Because it wasn't that the Monokubs were just machines, but humane enough to feel the type of abuse and suffer the consequences that common machines simply cannot themselves.

With that fact in hand, it was easy to feel sorry for the Kubs. Yet, with their shitty personalities, that feeling was fleeting at best, but it was still there. And in this moment, Miu chose to feel it. To sell this well.

"Maybe Daddy also has done something to you guys," Miu said, "That's why I want to check up on you so nothing is wrong with the two of you. Won't you let me?"

She asked, trying to appeal toward them nicely even if she could have been more forceful, as long as it won't bite her back. Miu simply put up a smile as the Monokubs looked at each other and loudly discussed to each other about her behaviour and any tricks she was up to like she wasn't here.

"We cannot trust her," Monophanie said crossly, "What if she wants to destroy us? We should escape before she gets any ideas!"

"We should tell Daddy, but I want to trust Mommy too..." Monotaro said.

"For the last time, she's not your Mommy," Monophanie continued on, "And you know we can't tell Daddy about this. He's doing something very important, remember?"

"Something important?" Miu asked, eyebrow raised and dread churning in her gut. Important... does not sound very good.

"Eep!" Monophanie suddenly let out after Miu questioned her.

Monotaro gasped, "Monophanie, what are you- oh, yeah! Now I remember. Daddy had to- mmph!"

Monophanie shut him up, "No, we can't say anymore. Otherwise Daddy will be really angry. We don't want anyone to know that Daddy is- mmph!"

This time it was Monotaro that shut her up and now both had hands over the other's mouth looking ridiculous. Miu roll her eyes, finally fed up with this banter despite the good information she was having.

Since Monokuma wasn't dealing with her, she wondered whether it had anything to do with Kokichi, the other threat of this killing game or maybe Gonta because it would be suspicious that he hung out with them often. After all, they couldn't stop security footage among them 24/7...

Or it might not be them at all, but if those possibilities happened...

And then Miu wondered, since they did this whole KGB thing, whether either of them could face what Monokuma would possibly do to them, not succumb after anything he's done, but...

'... Because sometimes crazy is what you need to end something as crazy as this.'

'But.. but Gonta want to save everyone!'

Unfortunately, both Kokichi and Gonta have weaknesses that could be easily exploited by Monokuma. Kokichi's craziness and Gonta's nobility. It wasn't that she didn't believe those two wouldn't betray her and everything they have been working on. She was scared that they could break, just like any other person and undermine everything. After all, both broke once... in that snowy rooftop of a VR fiasco. Only able to salvage themselves after they failed, after Miu saved herself.

Miu wanted to believe them. But sometimes she mustn't. Their work as the KGB, the camaraderie within the moments that progressed this all... all she gotten after she chose to work with Kokichi and Gonta despite everything, which while grateful for, did not change the fact that those two under Monokuma's pressure could easily crack and send shit hitting the fan. Something Miu would need to prepare against instead of blindly trusting that it won't happen.

Those thoughts were enough to make Miu strode towards them, carrying Monotaro and put him onto one of her tables, ready for inspection. No point in dilly dallying when the worst can happen and best to get things underway as quickly as possible. Asking nicely and waiting were immediately thrown out of the window. Sure this was forcing them, but at least she wasn't outright destroying them and that was enough to avoid punishment.

Monophanie was right behind her sputtering out protests but all Miu gave was a bright smile of reassurance, something she hoped could calm the Kubs down, having done the same towards Kiibo when he had his doubts with the maintenance. If it worked for Kiibo, it could work for the Kubs.

"How about this? Since we are getting nowhere, how about I perform my inspection on Monotaro now, and you, Monophanie watch so nothing happens to him. Fair deal?" Miu asked.

But that only made Monophanie more suspicious with the ever forgetful Monotaro simply winging it, kicking his legs up and down on the table, observing everything. Of course, Monophanie spoke up first.

"But why would you want to do something like that?" Monophanie asked shrewdly, "I thought you would gladly destroy us because we are following after Daddy's killing game. You must hate us for that, so why be kind to us and do this? Unless you are really going to destroy us."

"Eep!" Monotaro squealed at 'destroy us', "I'm too young to die. I don't want to end up like Monokid! Oh, Daddy save- wait he's not here... Monodam, save me!"

"Monodam is not here, you idiot," Monophanie sighed.

Miu huffed crossly but a sardonic smile still crossed her face as she said, "If I wanted to destroy you guys, I would have. But I didn't, did I? And I respect all machines as the Ultimate Inventor. I just want to see how you tick and make sure you are in tip top shape!"

That statement was partially a lie. She didn't respect all machines. In fact, Miu would gladly punt Monokuma into the sun if she could, but for the Monokubs, despite their antics, Miu had at least a sliver of respect for these well built machines to maintain professionalism as an inventor towards them. And that sliver of respect was enough for Miu's statement to have enough sincerity that the Monokubs were able to let their guard down.

"So, a check up? And from Mommy? Yay! Can I get a lollipop afterwards?" Monotaro asked, and Miu wondered if the little robot bear knew that he couldn't eat any sweets, well because...

So Miu just said, "Nope, something even better."

That seemed to make Monotaro more eager, lying still on the table while Miu looked at Monophanie, waiting for her answer.

"Fine," Monophanie finally said, "But I'm watching you."

That was the green light she needed, and got to it. Doing a standard procedure around Monotaro, there was nothing interesting of note... except:

"What's this?" Miu asked aloud as from deep within the cut open stomach of Monotaro to check the gears within, she pointed out what Miu could say for certain was a bomb, so obviously made that she knew at first glance. Monophanie gasped.

"Why... why would there be a bomb inside me?" Monotaro asked, still coherent since she chose to work on him while conscious so she can ask about his systems if she ever had any problems because genius she might be, no one knows their own bodies better than themselves.

"So Daddy really did..." Monophanie mumbled.

"Yeah, some Daddies could be really bullshit," Miu simply said. Not saying her father was bad but after the coma, a lot of things just changed, so she can understand bullshit parents a bit.

"Is there..." Monophanie continued mumbling, and Miu decided to reassure her.

"Let me finish checking Monotaro and then I'll check on you."

"OK," Monophanie said casually, at least no longer suspicious. She continued checking up on Monotaro but after the discovery of the bomb, which she quickly defused, dismantled and would definitely use for parts, Monophanie was less suspicious and more lax in watching, easily distracted when Miu decided to initiate conversation so she could plant her latest invention...

"Why on earth Monokuma would want to put a bomb into you Monokubs?" Miu asked.

"Daddy must have his reasons..." Monophanie fidgeted.

"But do you like it? Why do you have to put up with someone like that?" Miu asked.

"But he's our Daddy!" Monotaro protested.

"Just because he's your Daddy doesn't mean you could let him do shit to you guys," Miu said, "Don't you want to do something about it?"

"But Daddy will punish us if we disobey him..." Monophanie whimpered.

"So don't let him know," Miu smirked, "Better going behind his back without knowing and live than following along and die."

"Hear, hear! I agree with Mommy!" Monotaro piped up, and Miu smiled.

Monophanie chose to be silent as Miu finished up with Monotaro, and then ushered for Monophanie's turn which she complied without hesitation.

Monotaro hugged Miu, saying, "Thanks beary much for removing that bomb. But that doesn't mean I'm not watching you if you do anything to my dear sister..."

"Oh Monotaro..." Monophanie gushed and Miu almost gagged, being reminded of that hellish incestuous melodrama by just hearing that gushing lovey dovey voice.

Really, Miu wished she had some skip button during those sadistic announcements when she didn't want to watch that train wreck shit, something you don't want to see but can't look away. But other inventions had deprived her time of making one so that was that, and at least it ended.

Pushing back the grimace, she worked on Monophanie next, encountering the exact same situation as Monotaro. Everything fine and dandy except for the bomb in the stomach. It was only surprising that Monokuma didn't bother to do anything else to the Monokubs. Although Miu had no idea why a bomb would be put in the Monokubs in the first place, she was glad that it gave them a reason to distrust Monokuma.

And a reason to trust Miu.

"Oh my, oh my... blegh!" Monophanie said, vomiting that same pink goop she sometimes does when she sees anything gory or otherwise at times. This might be due to the stress finding out she too had a bomb in her stomach.

Miu backed away, nose upturned as Monotaro tried to comfort Monophanie.

"Ugh, disgusting," Miu said, having to clean up the mess before she could proceed to do anything.

"I'm- I'm sorry," Monophanie said, embarrassed but still stressed out about the revelation, "It's just... I thought... why Daddy?"

"Who knows? But what did you expect out of someone who orchestrated this shitty killing game anyway?" Miu asked casually, a little uncaring about the Monokubs' dilemna because she felt they had it coming but still somewhat sorry from the emitted fear and uncertainty from the Kubs.

"And don't worry," Miu said in a kind voice she can muster, "The bombs are outta your fucking system, so don't'cha worry about it."

"Thank... thank you. You're surprisingly a lot nicer than Daddy," Monophanie finally admitted.

"Eh, anyone would be a whole load fucking nicer than that shitty two toned bear reject!" Miu declared, to which Monotaro and Monophanie both giggled at. Those little shits could be alright, sometimes.

Finally, she was done with both of them, having planted the invention without them being aware, but Miu would not activate it... yet, only when needed and within the element of surprise to catch the mastermind off guard. Which was why she decided she needed a way to gain trust towards the two bears. So she could use them still without activating the trump card.

"Mommy... didn't you promise us something after we did these check-up of ours?" Monotaro finally asked, hugging Miu with sparkling eyes aimed toward her. Monophanie surprisingly did the same, hugging Miu's other side.

"Yeah, Mommy. Didn't you promise us something like that?" Monophanie asked.

"Mommy?!" Miu said in shock, not expecting that from Monophanie. The said bear simply giggled.

"Yeah, you are really nice to us, like a Mommy. I've never met my Mommy but I hope she was nice as you were just now when you remove those bombs for us," Monophanie said, snuggling herself towards Miu that soon enough Monotaro copied.

"Yeah, that's why your our Mommy. I wish others were just as nice as you were to us. I wish Daddy was like this too," Monotaro finally said, "So thank you Mommy. But I still want my reward."

"Yeah, what is it?" Monophanie asked, her eyes sparkling upward to Miu's and Monotaro also did the same, which blindsided Miu with total cuteness.

Any other day, she would never place these shitty Monokubs as cute but the sugarcoated compliments from their simpleminded trust now placed upon her and being praised as a Mommy by these childish Kubs... it warmed her up, the feeling of being needed and wanted and so much more... suddenly, it was like she couldn't say no to these little shits.

But the logical part of Miu screamed out she needed to take advantage of this, reminding her about the Four, about this killing game, about escaping and ending it. And it was enough for Miu to regain her senses as she finally smiled back towards the Kubs.

"Well... as your Mommy, this reward has something to do with getting back at Daddy, and Mommy has a great idea..." Miu started, eager to get the ball rolling so when something does crash and burn, at least Miu could prevent it.

***

"Number 371... My name is [REDACTED]. I guess you already have many people clamoring to get in the killing game, and really, I'm no different. After so many people, you are wondering if I'm worth your time."

"Well, of course I am. Otherwise I wouldn't even be here. As you know, Danganronpa is a place where anyone can be the better version of themselves. An Ultimate instead of the normal people we are now, with pasts and backgrounds we can only dream to have. All used to shape us how we can be in the killing game."

"And for something so interesting, I will give you something interesting in turn. People come here and preach they will kill expecting to be in the killing game. But that isn't really how it works. What you want is an interesting character, right? That's why I'm here. Because I believe that I could make this upcoming killing game as interesting as can be... if you let me."

And then the video ended, with Kokichi looking shocked as can be. Because he saw himself, in the same black uniform from his motive... as he was being interviewed, before it shut down. But...

"What a confusing video," Kokichi mused.

Because anyone seeing this video with what they now know, minus the 'knowledge' the KGB acquired, they would only be left bamboozled at such jarring contradictions.

Because this has absolutely nothing to do with the Gofer Project whatsoever. And Danganronpa, signing up willingly into the killing game, normal people turned into Ultimates.

This might be closer to the truth than all the lies they have been fed, yet not completely true. Something still missing. There was still no context of the video to truly grasp the full meaning.

The only thing made out of it easily was that Kokichi Ouma was convincing someone to take him into this game. That would mean the kidnapping theory went right out of the water, which from the very beginning was believed so adamantly, changed a little by others that they were hijacked instead in terms of the Gofer Project.

But this... not only is it confusing, it was damning. It gave another version of what happened to them, and whose to say this wasn't the true one?

'Shirogane-chan isn't really sticking to one story now, huh? Because why these?' Kokichi thought.

He had thought that it was stupid of Tsumugi to leave such damming things behind, but for any intruder to come and see it such as himself, it only ended up with confusion because there was yet another story for their situation that could be the truth, leaving it more shrouded than it ever was before.

In fact, putting that in such a perspective, it was quite smart of Tsumugi, making anyone second guess themselves, like he was now. Because he had all the puzzle pieces but he didn't know whether he was piecing them right.

Right now, whether it could harm or benefit him, he needed more pieces. He needed to see this contradicting story and wonder how Tsumugi would have fit this in her story she was weaving, such as the Gofer Project that she had been spouting for so long if it could have been contradicted so easily by something like this.

Or were these tablets supposed to be some major plot twist coming to a head?

Kokichi clutched his head in frustration from his spiraling thoughts. He didn't know it was possible but he was understanding Tsumugi less and less. That was supposed to be his shtick! Although he would grudgingly commend her for this.

For now, he decided to continue watching those videos, checking his Monopad from time to time to make sure Tsumugi wasn't anywhere near her dorm room so he won't be interrupted.

And as he watched...

"I'm perfect for a killing game. I don't have any faith in humanity."

"I'd do... anything to be a part of Danganronpa."

"Once I've got fame and fortune, I don't gotta worry about what's impossible."

Kokichi frowned. He had watched more and more tablets... Kaede, Shuichi, Kaito...

They were slightly different from their true personalities. Still the same, but darker and subtler. Despairing. As each and everyone begged, gambled, persuaded to be inside a death game, as if it was the best thing in the world. When now everyone wanted to get out.

And how about himself? Promising to make the killing game interesting so he can be in one? It was something Kokichi would never do since he obviously abhorred stuff like this.

So where was the lie? Was that person in his own video truly himself or someone else? Or himself but with a more twisted personality. What was true? What was false?

Kokichi chose to continue watching, right up until-

"Number 584. My name is [REDACTED]. Everyone knows how fun it is to enter this killing game. Everyone knows that it's a battle to even get a spot in one. And I'm ready to fight it all out. But that's not enough to make you pick me, right?"

"After all, Danganronpa is the absolute death game that everyone wants, right? So I will become the person you absolutely want. I just want to have fun, experience everything I cannot. I want to be alive in the death game when I could never be otherwise. Victim or blackened, I don't mind experiencing the danger as long as I'm in there.

"So let me have my fun there, and I will make sure to become a person everyone will remember, so I will always be alive, and always living no matter what happens there. As long as I'm in there, because I want it. No matter what."

The video showed yet another person from the cast, talking big game, cool and cheery. Yet their nervousness showed from time to time, occasionally tapping their foot as if to release the anxiety. There was nothing strange about such a video, normal as the person begs to join the killing game for some desperate, despairing or stupid reason.

So why...?

"Ngh," Kokichi grunted as he was still clutching his head after just finishing the video, unable to stop what's coming.

Why did it trigger all these memories? And those memories... after the Flashback Lights, can he seriously believe anything like his memories in this killing game?

But, before, the reason why he mistrusted the Flashback Lights, the memories given, was because they made little to no sense, never followed a logical tract like that funeral, which was enough for him to disbelieve the rest. But this time... this time...

Kokichi rewatched the video, hoping to find answers but none came yet, as to why it triggered anything at all when his own didn't. But if his memory, the one he recently gained, serves him right...

Was it because the person was ADR and they somehow planned this from the start? For a trigger to be planted, for this to be shown all along as a motive at one point so everyone will remember? Truly remember everything? Or just for themselves? But then why would it work for Kokichi?

Kokichi couldn't even comprehend, but he understood nonetheless. The killing game was filled with the unknown and desperation. Each and every plan concocted against this so far indestructible killing game always becomes a gamble.

But this gamble paid off because someone has seen it, and could use it. Kokichi immediately fished out an empty USB he had just for this purpose when he found something useful in an electronic device and used it to download the video inside without affecting the original.

'Keep just in case. Possible backup. Should I show to Iruma-chan and Gonta?' Kokichi thought, a small frown at the last question that popped up.

Kokichi knew that throughout the formation of KGB, he had relied on them more often than not, having taken plenty calculated risks in divulging information here and there he would not have otherwise done, such as the identity of the mastermind, his grand plans like Mr. Endgame even if it was just to assure and lighten up the mood and letting them know the true nature of this killing game... to an extent.

Because they were stubborn wanting something out of him, he chose to compromise giving out info that would make them aware of the stakes, to prevent them doing anything too risky or regretful and even help him within some plans to meet the ends when he felt help necessary after everything that happened. That much, he gave.

But what Kokichi couldn't give... as it was the highest stupidity to forget they were still inside the killing game and anyone can kill under circumstances, was any information that could make them cave into the idea of killing out of sheer desperation.

'If... if I let this happen, will my ass be out of the hot seat?'

'How about... how about wait until those few days and then... Gonta... Gonta will die.'

After all, he witnessed that for himself while waiting to make his grand entrance back then, with that threat/deal by Motherkuma as an example of circumstances and sheer desperation.

If he gave them back their memories, and those memories weren't pretty, could he trust them not to cave in? That was the hesitation he had, and it was a good thing in this killing game. He still had time to calculate the risks and test the both more soon after this to cement his decisions.

And then he looked around, remembering Miu and Gonta's videos. Without much hesitation, he uploaded them in separate USBs. Might as well give them the choice, instead of none at all. Just in case as well. Or maybe to truly test them as well, since he can never trust and he needed reason of low risk as to why he should show them anything.

It seemed that the tablets were all that was there in the room, yet it was enough as it opened Kokichi's eyes to more things that he could only imagine.

Checking the Monopad one last time to make sure his exit went smooth sailing and happy that no one was in the vicinity, Kokichi left deciding to check up on Miu and even help her with those inventions. There were a lot and he knew the slut wasn't a factory machine.

And with that hidden time limit of three days, Miu would need all the help she can get. At least Kokichi dabbled a little in machinery, although not expert but he could be of a little use.

However those plans were foiled the moment Monokuma once again appeared out of nowhere and greeted Kokichi.

"Finally done? You have been there a long time that I thought you were just enjoying yourself in a girl's room like the boy you are. Had any fun in there?"

"Oh, Monokuma. What are you doing here? Meddling around other people's business because you have absolutely no life?" Kokichi shot back, not beating around the bush because he rather get it over with whatever Monokuma wanted from him. For someone who makes everything difficult for others, Kokichi himself preferred the direct approach for himself. Makes it easier.

"Oh, I don't meddle. I'm just a dear headmaster making sure that everything and everyone here is always smooth sailing and not up to anything that would inconvenience this Academy. Which is why I'm here."

"To make sure I'm not an inconvenience?" Kokichi asked with a raised brow, "Too little too late there. You should have done it, like... way at the beginning, ya know?"

"Ah, who doesn't know that you aren't an inconvenience, Ouma-kun? And honestly, it was beary welcome here because who doesn't love to see the defiant and strong break down in a place like this? But, you didn't break soon enough, and continue being inconvenient when it's harmful for this game. Now, that I can't stand," Monokuma threatened but all Kokichi did was give a wide smile.

"You can't stand it, so what?" Kokichi asked confidently, "Because I'm not breaking any rules aren't I? You can't even break me and you can't just get rid of me because your rules said so, don't they? That means you can't do anything, huh? Too bad."

Monokuma growled at the mockery at the end but he was quick to plaster a sinister smile on his robotic face, "You are right. I can't break you no matter how much as I try, but that doesn't mean I can't put a fork in your tomfoolery. After all, you still owe me, don't you?"

"And what will you have me do?" Kokichi asked, a smirk resting on his face as cool as a cucumber. Simply waiting for the verdict.

"Upupupu," Monokuma laughed, not even fazed at Kokichi's lack of care towards him, "Simple really. Everything you've been doing, all your plots against this killing game, you will stop doing them."

Kokichi raised his brow, "And what do you mean by plots against this killing game? I love this killing game so much, why would I even want to stop it? And I have never plotted anything in my innocent life. I have no idea what your talking about."

Kokichi batted his eyelashes in innocence, but of course Monokuma won't buy such a blatant lie. One might wonder why bother, but it's just too fun to mess around. And why pass up chances of having any fun? Might as well enjoy himself. After all, he hated boredom and being too serious can be boring.

"Yeah and my mother was a fish," Monokuma smiled back, undeterred by Kokichi's antics as Monokuma pressed on, "You don't think I could easily turn a blind eye after that VR fiasco fail and that you and your pawns have been snooping around where you don't even belong. Even hurting my poor real mother on the way. I was really looking forward to a brother or sister, you know? And now my poor Kubs can't even have an aunt or uncle. For shame..."

Monokuma shed fake tears as he continued, "And not to mention your B & Es. You think I'm not aware of that either, or anything else that goes around here. You might think you hoodwinked me, but you forgotten that I'm God and no matter what you puny mortals do, I will know."

"OK then! If your God like you always said, tell me what I'm going to do in the next 5 minutes!" Kokichi said, getting excitable with sparkling eyes and eager for Monokuma's answer.

For the bear himself, he backed off while nervously sweat dropping, which could be an act for all he knew, but confidently answered nonetheless, "You will agree to what I said so you will settle what you owe me, before this God decides to collect the debt someway else that will be much, much worse than what I asked of you."

Monokuma smiled sinisterly, but all Kokichi did was give a chuckle as he shook his head amusedly.

"Bzzt. Wrong," Kokichi said, sticking his tongue out and giving a thumbs down, "In the next five minutes, I will give you the middle finger, say 'Like I'm gonna stop when things are getting fun' and walk away like the king I am."

And Kokichi did give the middle finger before walking away like the king he was, leaving Monokuma in momentary shock.

Kokichi knew that since Monokuma was one of the Four, he shouldn't really pass up any opportunity to tamper with him somehow just to take him down. Yet, at the same time, it was not the right opportunity, because Monokuma had many defenses in him against any opportunity.

After all, there are rules that made sure violence is prohibited against him and anything deemed as violence done in attempts to take him down was not worth it for anyone who wanted to see another day. Also, Monokuma was one slippery bastard himself, most experienced throughout thanks to past killing games so it would be harder to hoodwink this AI of a bear.

Quite unlike the Monokubs, as shown by their antics, to be more simple-minded and easier to manipulate. Also them having control over the Exisals make it two birds with one stone. Motherkuma was already dealt with somewhat. Monokuma could be the only real problem.

So honestly it was better to just gain information from Monokuma about the latest scheme rather than plot anything against him. How, one might ask when Kokichi was now walking away from Monokuma, but...

"And you don't want to know what I would do if you don't comply?" Monokuma asked, out of his shock which caused Kokichi to spin around once again facing Monokuma. Kokichi called it, knowing Monokuma wouldn't have let things leave just as is.

Because if there was one thing Kokichi knew, it was that as opposed to just complying and listening, walking away just showing blatant disinterest, the enemy, which in this case was obviously Monokuma, would feel as if he lost the upper hand or control within the conversation. In an attempt to regain that control, Monokuma would probably be desperate and careless in spilling everything to Kokichi, just to sell his threats well. And Kokichi was right in that regard.

"You don't want to be responsible for a death or two, now do you? Like... the death of your pawns? After all, one of them has to go. Long overdue, like you. And the other," Monokuma tsked, "Well, it would be a shame but I know you know what happens if someone doesn't die in the killing game and I'm not exactly picky."

It was really like following a script. It was common and such a normal bad guy move Kokichi wanted to fake sleep just to annoy Monokuma for this BS. But he chose to continue this conversation, trying to get Monokuma's responses and see what he can do with them.

Kokichi tilted his head as he said, "But it's not like you can commit murder directly now, can you? So, how exactly are you going to go through with that threat?"

"Are you underestimating me?" Monokuma asked, paws over his mouth as he giggled derisively, "You don't think no ones going to die just because I can't kill anyone directly? You don't think other people won't do my bidding just like all those other times?"

Kokichi knew exactly what Monokuma was referencing. The past motives and past deaths.

"But that hasn't been working so far lately, has it? Really, you are getting rusty, you future fur coat. And rusty threats don't hold as much weight as a time before. I rather continue what I'm doing, far more interesting than this disappointing killing game."

"Disappointing killing game?" Monokuma asked, indignant and Kokichi now bored holes into Monokuma with his stare as he explained himself:

"Yeah, so boring. I thought it would be a fun game, but then it got so repetitive. And the crummy game mechs, I can't even. Then, you know what I realised? Why not make my own game out of this? Trying to escape under your nose has just become more fun than playing the killing game. I'm disappointed that I actually let myself play this game when in the end, it's just bullcrap. I love games, but not the bad ones."

Monokuma seemed to be processing Kokichi's entire speech before saying, "So, are you telling me... the reason why you are plotting against me, against this killing game, is because you found it boring?"

"Nishishi, why of course! Why else would I even do anything? I want to be entertained!" Kokichi declared with childish glee.

"And your friends? You don't care about them. You don't care if they get killed?" Monokuma asked, with the slightest tilt of his head.

"Huh? What friends? Didn't you just said they were pawns? Just like a game of chess. Sometimes needed to be sacrificed if useful for the long run, and I tend to play games in the long run. Your threat, in the end, is meaningless. So nothing will stop what I'm doing. Sorry not sorry," Kokichi said, sticking his tongue out.

Monokuma was once again silent before he gave out his signature laugh, "Of all the... in the end you really are an uncaring bastard. So then, how about I make it interesting for ya?"

Kokichi smirked with a raised eyebrow, saying, "Oh?"

But actually he thought, 'Can't believe he fell so easily for my lies.'

Of course, he lied. Kokichi was evil sure, but still a pacifist. He totally lied about Miu and Gonta being just sacrificial pawns, not his style. It's just that he chose to veer Monokuma's thought of him being a goody two shoes from all the escape plans, partnerships and murder avoidance Kokichi had been doing.

Having done it, it also gave him a sense of unpredictability, his actions always bizarre and confusing going from one place to another which Kokichi relished. Because that means the bear would have a harder time pinpointing what Kokichi would be up to and that would be enough to pull Monokuma under the rug when he needed to.

In addition, it seemed that he was about to get some useful information right here and now, hopefully useful enough to flip this killing game's script.

So Kokichi listened, taking account of anything and everything as Monokuma started, "So then..."

***

It took a while but Maki and Gonta finally found Kaito, who was looking around outside the Academy. When he saw Maki, he rushed to her as he brightened up instantly saying, "Harumaki. There you are. I was looking all over for you."

"Yeah, I know. You didn't need to look out for me like that," Maki said.

"Nonsense," Kaito said, "You are one of my precious sidekicks and as a hero, I have to look out for you."

"... Idiot," Maki muttered that made Kaito sputter an indignant, "Hey!"

Gonta looked on at the scene and decided that he should give them their privacy. Sure he had cajoled Maki to hanging out with him before when she was reluctant. But that was because he felt it necessary with reasons to boot with everything that happened last night.

But in Kaito's case, there was not that same urgency, and even if he did want to find out whether Kaito was ADR or not, that can be done when Kaito was more free and he rather not intrude on this moment like any polite gentleman, any friend would have done.

So Gonta decided to quietly take his leave, deciding to just go to the AV room early and set up for the rom-com or chat a little with Himiko in the meantime to see whether she was an ADR or not. But it's better to do the former, as Gonta knew it wasn't long until the appointed time.

Yet all that was for naught, when Kaito called out, "Oh, hey Gonta. Where are you going?"

Gonta stopped short of his leave, to turn around to Kaito who was now looking at him, along with Maki.

"Oh, Gonta leaving," Gonta answered, "Gonta thought you and Harukawa-san were having a moment so Gonta thought to leave you two be."

Maki, for some reason, became red all of a sudden before she stuttered out, "We- we were not having a moment. It was just talking."

"Really? Gonta thought..." Gonta said, because he remembered these types of situations and the social cue required worthy of a gentleman when he was dealing with them from reading books and watching shows that showed true gentlemen. Then again, he remembered Shuichi telling Gonta that it wasn't always right because... fiction, right? And that fiction was not necessarily reality. Maybe it was the same for this case and Gonta hastened to correct this mistake.

"Well, Gonta wrong, Gonta guess," he said earnestly, before deciding to address Kaito who was the one to call him out, "Does Momota-kun want something from Gonta?"

"Actually yeah," Kaito admitted, "I need your help to get Ouma to our side."

"What?" Both Gonta and Maki asked turning to Kaito with identical shock faces. Because even Gonta knew that next to Maki, Kaito was among the classmates who liked Kokichi the least, having bickered and fought from time to time. Sure Gonta was glad that Kaito wanted to befriend Kokichi now, for whatever reason, but it was still shocking that it happened, that's all.

Seeing those shocked expressions, Kaito explained, "Gonta, you told me that Ouma shouldn't be left alone, to be there for him despite his trickster personality. I've thought about it and I agreed with what you said. Which was why I made him my sidekick."

"What?!" Gonta and Maki asked again, even more shock than before. Kokichi... Kaito's sidekick? It was a moment before someone finally spoken up.

"Since when? And even if you didn't want to leave Ouma alone, why?" Maki asked what Gonta had been thinking. Gonta shouldn't be really skeptical about this.

Really, he didn't want to be, but Gonta was not blind toward the animosity those two have for each other and considering his own experiences with Kokichi, he was sure the trickster wouldn't willingly give in to this sidekick thing anymore than he would have towards Gonta and Miu initially about their partnership until he had given in only through knowing too much and using that information in coaxing him.

Unless, of course, Kaito actually had information to coax Kokichi into the sidekick thing, and the only thing Gonta was certain that would make Kokichi work with anyone at this point other than the usual KGB would be the ADR. Could Kaito be-

"About that," Kaito now said, breaking Gonta mid thought. From there, Kaito explained his meeting with Kokichi and their discussion, the brief and incomplete summary of it but enough to get a gist of things.

Most notable was that Kokichi refused all attempts of being a sidekick and ran away, which was why Kaito was now asking for Gonta's help with bringing Kokichi to his side. Meaning that Gonta's thoughts about Kaito being ADR might be wrong if Kokichi refused to team up in the first place.

But was Kaito really not the ADR? A part of Gonta wanted to check that out for himself.

"... So that's what happened," Kaito said, wrapping up his explanation to both Maki and Gonta before turning toward the latter, "And the reason I asked for your help. I'm determined to have Ouma as my sidekick. That way he won't be left alone and he might even change for the better!"

"Change for the better?" Maki asked, eyebrow raised as if such a concept wasn't even possible but Kaito didn't notice, simply explaining himself further.

"Of course!" Kaito exclaimed, "Everyone can change for the better, Harumaki. Even Ouma! After all, you have changed for the better yourself Harumaki. Now getting along with everyone when before-"

"You don't have to use me as an example. I get it," Maki said and then sighed, "I don't really agree about Ouma changing for the better and I don't like it, but do whatever you want. Just don't come crying to me when it goes sour."

"Ah, you will see that I'm right soon enough Harumaki," Kaito said, flashing a smile of reassurance towards her which she faintly returned back in acceptance of reassurance. Then, Kaito turned towards Gonta once again.

"So what do you say? Will you help? I'm sure you want Ouma to change for the better more than anyone here actually," Kaito said.

Honestly, Gonta did want Kokichi to change for the better. But forcing Kokichi into being Kaito's sidekick might not be the right way to do that... at all.

Especially because of the newest information and development within the KGB.

Still, Gonta was honest and nodded his head, "Yes, Gonta does want Ouma-kun to be better. So he doesn't hurt himself and others."

"So you will help me?" Kaito asked, and this one Gonta was less sure of how to answer. Luckily he had an excuse where he can think this longer without being rude.

"Ah, later Momota-kun," Gonta said apologetically, "Gonta have to go now. Gonta promise Kiibo-kun and Shorogane-san that Gonta meet up with them."

"Well, if you promised them, you should go but if you have any time afterwards to talk..." Kaito started saying.

Then, the both discussed a possible next meeting after Gonta finally bid both Kaito and Maki farewell as he went towards the AV room, only hoping he wasn't late.

As he walked, by himself with no else in the surroundings, Gonta only said quietly, "How are Iruma-san and Ouma-kun doing?"

To anyone else, such a question wouldn't have an answer back as typically these questions were only spoken aloud from one's thought in wonder. And being alone as Gonta was, there was no one to answer it back.

But for Gonta, he actually received an answer back.

"Fine. No sign of danger but..."

And the answer he received were from his bug surveillance. Which, yes, for all intents and purposes, was still going on, for all his classmates, ready and alert at the slightest danger to immediately inform Gonta while running distraction themselves by the swarm.

Of course Gonta was unsure when the bugs suggested this while Gonta asked them ideas to run interference when needed since he wanted to put up this surveillance for the safety of his classmates but the bugs reassured him:

"We will be careful, and it will be so much fun. Last time we met them, fun hanging out. Would like to do that again."

Gonta was sure that the bugs were referring to the Insect Meet and Greet, and was happy enough that the bugs liked his classmates enough to play with them again, even as a distraction before Gonta come to the rescue, if a rescue was ever needed.

So as Gonta was heading to the AV room, he only heard so far of Miu's run in with Himiko and Kiibo while Kokichi's run in with Kaito.

The bugs heard snippets of conversation but were mostly unable to hear much while they made themselves hidden from everyone. Since Gonta didn't want anyone to find out about what he done... knowing they would hate him for this blatant disregard to their privacy but after everything that happened, for the desire to protect everyone and be their on time...

The bugs told him everything they heard, bringing Gonta up to speed, with an extremely worrying part putting him on edge.

'Yumeno-san...' Gonta thought, as he made it to the AV room and opened the door. A misunderstanding at best and a murder plan at worst. Gonta would want to confront her but that was out of the question.

Yesterday when they were discussing about would be murderers due to the motives, both Kokichi and Miu vetoed to confront suspicious people directly and that other methods have to be used instead.

"Why?" Gonta had asked when they were discussing about what to do to stop people from murdering anyone.

"Well, who the fucking hell would just come out and say, 'Yes, I was planning to murder someone. Since you found out, I won't kill anyone, promise!'?" Miu asked back but didn't give Gonta a chance to answer as she continued, "No one in their goddamn right mind!"

"People will just deny and even if they promise, they would still go ahead with it behind your back. There is a better way to handle this type of things. One that would stop the murder entirely and 100% make sure they won't do it again without any chances of betrayal," Kokichi boasted.

"How?" Gonta just asked.

Gonta was still doubtful with what Kokichi proposed, but he knew from the bugs that Miu prepared something against Himiko already and with the fact that the bugs are on standby just in case anything goes disarray was enough to give Kokichi's idea a shot.

The idea to stop the murders happening while they happen and use the fact that whoever done it as blackmail to prevent said person from trying again. It was risky but probably more effective in comparison to simply begging a would be murderer not to kill only for them to promise and do it anyway once they see an opening. At least that's what Miu and Kokichi convinced of Gonta, somehow.

Thus the reason he casually walked into the AV room not blowing off any meetings and trying to have fun for the time being while thinking of the next move with the two people he would now hang out with.

"Oh, Gonta-kun, you finally arrived," Kiibo greeted Gonta as both him and Tsumugi were already preparing the screening and seemed to be waiting for him.

"Oh, was Gonta late?" Gonta asked, an apologetic tone already warming it's way into his voice, "Gonta sorry."

"Oh no, you weren't late. I just thought to come a little earlier to set things up. Tsumugi just arrived a few minutes before you after all," Kiibo said.

"Yep, I was busy making popcorn," Tsumugi said cheerfully, holding a bowl of popcorn as she offered some to Gonta, "After all, what's a screening without popcorn? Have some. I made enough for a bunch of episodes. I really can't wait to see your reactions when we watch the rom-com. They make it really worth it."

Gonta took some popcorn eating it as he smiled at Tsumugi's enthusiasm, times like these where the idea of her being an evil mastermind were dismissed inside his mind in front of this cheerful and friendly person.

But Gonta doesn't forget, and that's what makes it disconcerting. Meanwhile, Kiibo was looking at the popcorn wistfully, lamenting aloud, "How I wish I can eat those..."

Gonta reassured Kiibo, suggesting, "Maybe one day Kiibo-kun can eat. Maybe if Iruma-san made an upgrade for Kiibo to eat?"

Well... Gonta still remembered Kiibo shining like a flashlight and the photo coming out from his mouth that Miu did to him. Why not eating?

Kiibo startled at that suggestion, but then became contemplative as he questioned himself, "Is that possible? Maybe if-"

"How about you on hold that thought for now, Kiibo-kun?" Tsumugi said, suddenly behind Kiibo and clapping his shoulders, having put the popcorn bowl down next to the sofa, "As plain interesting it might be, I'm actually itching to watch the rom-com and seeing your reactions from them, so if you don't mind..."

"Ah, Shirogane-san," Kiibo said, startled, "Yeah, sure, but what's the rush?"

"Well, this rom-com might be what the doctor ordered after everything that happened and I just want my batch of serotonin to go as soon as possible, that's all. So sorry if I was being plain rud just now about it," Tsumugi said, plopping herself on the sofa.

"It's OK, Shirogane-san," Kiibo said amicably, plopping himself on the sofa that now Gonta followed suit, "But is everything alright?"

"Huh? Why do you ask that?" Tsumugi asked.

"Well... from what you said earlier, it seemed to me that you might have undergone something bad since you said that this rom-com would be just what the doctor ordered. Also saying you wanted your batch of serotonin means that you might lack them which leads to a bad mood. With all of that in mind, are you alright, Shirogane-san?" Kiibo said.

Gonta looked at Tsumugi, a hint of concern on his features but he didn't need to be either Miu or Kokichi to know what this everything was that gotten Tsumugi in a possible bad mood. After all, from the mastermind's perspective, nothing went right for the killing game ever since the VR fiasco and considering the hidden rules of the killing game known only by her and now the KGB, it would only bode no good for Tsumugi herself.

"I think you took it a little too literally, Kiibo-kun," Tsumugi dismissed with a wave of her hand, "Sometimes some people can be a little overdramatic and exaggerate things more than they actually are. Yeah... I won't deny I'm plainly worried with the motive and all, but it's nothing too bad really. Next time, don't take things too seriously, alright, Kiibo-kun?"

"Are you sure, Shirogane-san?" Gonta asked, an edge of worry in his voice but Tsumugi smiled on.

"Yeah, I'm sure. Now, let's forget the motives and this killing game for a while with this heart pounding rom-com!" Tsumugi declared, starting the episodes before either Kiibo or Gonta could say anything more. They looked at each other and both knew they wouldn't get anything out of Tsumugi if they tried and decided to respect her wishes.

As they watched the episodes of the rom-com, Gonta looked at Tsumugi from time to time, a few words from her still lingering in his mind.

'Now, let's forget the motives and this killing game...' Tsumugi had said. It struck a chord in Gonta because he was reminded of the blackmail material, those words possibly validating the truth in what he learnt of Tsumugi from that blackmail.

Although while reading that blackmail material himself, it couldn't really be called blackmail itself. If anything, it would have persuaded Tsumugi to stay as the mastermind as is, a reminder not to give up on the job chosen for her instead of helping the KGB blackmail Tsumugi to abuse her status as mastermind to help them escape. But from a different perspective, it might as well be that Tsumugi was forced into the mastermind status as first pick and everyone second, which was why she wanted to forget the killing game... forget the pressure and the sins she was forced into.

It was true that Tsumugi chose to be the mastermind of her own volition and chose to lead them through this hell. But he understood how Tsumugi was chosen in the first place, asked about it and accepted wholeheartedly through the blackmail material.

In this scenario, after the Ultimates were chosen for the Gofer Project, Team Danganronpa kidnaps the cast momentarily to be evaluated and tested to see whether they have the mastermind chops. Once a potential mastermind casted among the Ultimates, Team DR would persuade the person, in this case Tsumugi, to join their cause. And apparently their persuasion worked so well that Tsumugi agreed with such joy to become the mastermind, something Team DR made sure she will never forget.

See... forceful, but the blackmail material indicated  after the persuasion, Tsumugi happily took up the mastermind role with such fervent determination like her own passion project that the idea of being forced to do such a thing seemed out of bounds.

For now, Gonta enjoyed himself watching the rom-com as he laughed and gasped along with Kiibo at times and reacting with both him and Tsumugi although at times his thoughts strayed away.

He knew that sooner or later that he will have to get Tsumugi at her lonesome to figure her out himself but softening Tsumugi up, observing her to know her better while enjoying himself was better than nothing.

And when he finally confronted Tsumugi to get the truth. If she was indeed forced to the mastermind role, to give mercy...? For a while, he fretted about what Miu and Kokichi would do with Tsumugi if it was up to them when they had the mastermind at their mercy that Gonta was going to try to do later.

'OK then, give me blackmail against Shitogane!'

'Like I said, if not, we proceed with Mr. Endgame I told you about.'

Unfortunately, Gonta wasn't sure that both Miu or Kokichi would be merciful, or tactful about it. Which was why at the moment, it might be best for Gonta to handle problems in which he doubted those two could solve.

Actually, he was sure maybe before, right now or later, Miu and Kokichi would doubt the others in KGB just like Gonta did to them as they continue along, but doubt would be a good thing. Because that would mean they were just being careful.

Which was why Gonta wasn't ashamed to calculate such risks and do things himself from time to time. And that he would do it again whenever needed. So for now, he would keep planning and thinking the best he can as he enjoyed the rom-com waiting to make the next move when he can.

Chapter Text

"Why did I think this was a good idea?" Monophanie lamented.

"But it's Mommy doing this. We can trust her," Monotaro insisted.

"I want to, but..." Monophanie said, eying Miu warily, "I don't."

"Gee, that's a great thanks to someone who removed a bomb from you without any reason when I could have just let you blown up," Miu countered.

"And seriously, what I'm doing... this can help you too," Miu insisted.

"Yeah," Monotaro backed up Miu, "So let's do it!"

Monophanie grumbled a little but she said, "Fine. But no funny business. Those Exisals are dear toys of ours. We don't want them sabotaged or destroyed in anyway."

"They won't," Miu reassured, "After all, I promised a reward, didn't I?"

The reward Miu had suggested back then was an upgrade to the Exisals, an upgrade that could give them a better leg up against Monokuma when they need to rebel against him for all the horrible things he's done.

That was the cover story anyway, and it was technically true by all accounts because what Miu was about to do will help rebel against Monokuma. 

To help them end this game.

Soon enough, Miu found herself inside the Exisal hangar after the Monokubs let her in, in front of the Exisals themselves. There, Miu started fishing for her tools that she needed to tinker with the Exisals as both Monotaro and Monophanie began talking.

"Hey, hey, what are you going to add? I want a big laser for mine," Monotaro said cheerfully.

"Yeah, and for mine, I want a flamethrower because I think it would be easier to burn things down instead of crushing them," Monophanie giggled.

"And what would you even use them for?" Miu asked, as she was examining the nearest Exisal, which was Monotaro's to at least understand the finer parts of this machinery.

"Huh? To subdue Daddy, of course," Monotaro said with a head tilt indicating confusion, "Daddy really is mean to us and it was Mommy that opened our eyes to that. And we don't want anything like the bomb done to us by Daddy again. If he's going to continue being mean to us, then I want to protect myself against Daddy."

"Yeah, I never liked the gore or this killing game. We are only doing it because of Daddy. But why should we? I actually like you and the others better than Daddy. If you could help us improve the Exisals to beat Daddy, then everyone can live happily ever after," Monophanie added.

"Oh really?" Miu asked, half listening to the conversation and half being impressed with the Exisals once again after taking a better look at them as well as fiddling here and there without them knowing. Saying it like that, she might or might not have add something to the Exisals but the Monokubs didn't need to know that. Still... lasers and a flamethrower, huh? To beat Monokuma.

It was kinda strange to hear the Monokubs going against Monokuma but even those little bear bots have their limits, Miu guessed.

Unfortunately for them, Miu did not intend to add such weapons to the already very dangerous Exisals. She obviously had something else in mind.

"Well, let's see with the laser and flamethrower... But first I need to know this bad boy up a little more..."

This time, Miu reached the cockpit of the Exisal, trying to open it and see it's mechanics. To see where and how the Monokubs command such machines! It easily opened, revealing something of a cockpit with controls. Wanting to get a closer look and a feel of the things, she got in. Despite it being for the Monokubs, it could surprisingly fit for a person.

Even the controls themselves, as she reached towards them... Miu half wondered how the Exisals were even controlled with those stuffed bear paws but when did the laws of logic ever apply to this place?

Wait... when did the laws of logic ever apply to this place? With the stuffed bears, the End Wall, how things mysteriously appear just like the Ultimate Robot's Lab to her own, the machines... Isn't that strange in and of itself? Miu rarely questioned it because shegot used to it, but as a woman of science where she prefers to defer to it's logic, the unusualness of it all always did nag at her. She chose to ignore it for the sake of her sanity, but now...

Miu was questioning things more, trying things out and using everything she had to her advantage. She wanted a good ending to this as much as anyone and finding out about this killing game and it's weaknesses were as important as anything. Still, it was unfortunately difficult for this woman of science to get any answers when science itself was defied to the fantastical in this game. With that limitation before her, she could only work with the technical problems rather than the things here that defy logic.

"Eh? What are you doing? You can't go in there!" Monophanie shouted out as Miu now seated herself comfortably in the Exisal which looked like it was made for humans when this was originally created for those smaller stuffed bears. She wasn't going to complain as she examined the controls and what it was used for. She still had to answer the Kubs who were panicking at her having control of the Exisals. Seems they don't trust her with their toys. Well, she doesn't blame that, so she decided to reassure them.

"How should I know what upgrades I can do with the Exisals if I don't check it thoroughly. If you are still worried, why don't one of you accompany and show me the controls round here. In fact, why don't you do that? It will help me tons."

"Sure," Monotaro said, as he climbed up the Exisal to Miu's lap. Monophanie was still skeptical but she didn't do anything, simply crossing her arms.

As soon as Monotaro was seated in Miu's lap and looking at the controls of the Exisal, he started, "Now, where should we start..."

Monotaro was good at explanations despite his forgetful personality and managed to give Miu quite a good rundown of the Exisal's controls.

It didn't take long for Miu's expert opinion to declare that anyone with hands, feet and nipples can work this thing smoothly. Sure, the Monokubs don't have hands, unless those stuffed paws could be counted and they absolutely don't have nipples but they are exceptions. It was surprising that the Exisals could be worked by humans as well which was why there was that ridiculous security for the hangar to prevent anyone hijacking Exisals in the first place.

Then, why bother making the Exisals fit for human if you don't want them to be hijacked?! There were also strange features Miu couldn't determine the purpose of for the life of her.

"Why would you have a voice changer here?" Miu asked Monotaro when he showed it to her.

"Huh? ... I don't know. Daddy was the one to make these for us. Maybe he thought it would be useful?" Monotaro answered with a confused look on his face. Miu frowned. That damn bear still remains a mystery, huh?

Eventually, Miu got out of the Exisals before she walked around to the rest, moving as if she was inspecting them when instead she had slapped a little something on all these Exisals without the Monokubs' knowing. Finally... the Exisals were hers... she can finally wreck an entrance to her escape or whatever else she wanted. Well, of course she couldn't really do that or risk being a bigger target to the mastermind but it's just the principle of things.

The opportunities... the machinery, but she didn't want neither Monokubs to be suspicious of that, so she had to keep up with the charade and pretended she wasn't scheming something. Yeah, she wasn't scheming at all.

So Miu turned to both Monokubs and declared, "I will make the laser and flamethrower for your Exisals!"

"Yay!" The Monokubs cheered which made Miu smile, the cheer itself infectious over her. Miu continued:

"I will get onto it, so how about you guys run along now? We don't want to make Monokuma suspicious, wouldn't we?"

"Then, when can we see you again?" Monotaro asked and Miu had a mischievous smirk at that.

"Well, we will have our secret signal between us, alright? So, at my Lab, I will set off a red light off the window on the right and that's when you can come to meet me. Got it?"

"Understood. I can't wait," Monophanie said, and with that, both disappeared. Miu sighed in relief before once again looking at the Exisals before her. She knew what she did to them, and she hoped it will work when it needs to work.

With that, Miu made to go back to her Lab, ready to convene again with Kokichi and Gonta to tell everything going on so they can help her as the KGB they are but most definitely she was keeping the Exisals as her secret weapon.

It was not that she didn't trust Kokichi and Gonta... OK, maybe it is that she doubted them a little considering what would be thrown against them, which was why in a world where you can only truly trust yourself, there are a few cards needed to keep close to your chest. As the hangar door opened while she was in her whirlwind of thoughts, she was met with an unexpected person before her.

"Iruma-san?!" Shuichi asked, equally startled to see Miu, "What were you doing inside the hangar? How did you get inside the hangar?"

"I... umm... well, how about you, dipshit? What are you doing here, hanging 'round these parts?" Miu shot back.

Shuichi was a little flustered at Miu's snark but surprisingly managed to collect himself easily and answered, "Well, I have been investigating the Academy all over again to see if there was anything I missed. But you haven't answered my question, Iruma-san. How did you get inside the hangar since there's an alarm that will sound if we try to break in? And I doubt that you have the remote to turn off the alarm..."

Shuichi's eyes had briefly narrowed in suspicion before settling itself to neutral curiosity, but it was enough to fluster Miu who tried to keep it in check. She was still suspicious of Shuichi's presence although it could be as he said and it was the detective in him.

That was indeed plausible because although Shuichi kept to himself at first, he started coming out of shell more once he took his cap off like it turned on a switch. Miu had seen Shuichi walking around, inspecting the Acadeny once in a while and even chatting up with the others while hanging out. If someone asked Miu what she thought of Shuichi, she would say he's a wimp but one good detective once he got a bit of spine in him.

Right now, because he became a good detective, Miu needed to be cautious with how she could get out of this. Actually, there was no getting out of this. No way could she lie about what he had seen. Or could she? What should she do...?

Contemplating using the taser she kept on herself for self-defense just in case words failed, Miu fumbled out, "I... totally wanted to see the Exisals, yeah that's it, so I... hacked into the password and got into the hangar so I can examine them better, duh doy. As if I won't let the opportunity go to waste checking out those machines upfront and personal."

Take that, Ultimate Detective! There's nothing suspicious about Miu Iruma. Yep, nothing at all!

Unfortunately, Shuichi seemed to think otherwise with his deadpan stare on Miu as he said, "You didn't answer about the alarm, Iruma-san. Sure you can hack the password, but if I remember right, you would also need to bypass the alarm and only Monokuma has the remote for that."

"Well... I hacked into that too. Nothing's impossible for this amazing gorgeous girl genius. Kyahahaha!" Miu laughed, trying to bolster up a cocky attitude so she can hide her nervous nature in front of Shuichi.

Shuichi seemed to be in deep thought from that, but the suspicious and doubtful glance he gave Miu was obvious to see yet fleeting. It didn't really surprise Miu, considering this damn killing game, she might as well have gazed each and everyone here the same way too in the past. Eventually, Shuichi spoke up again:

"I see, Iruma-san. Well, I did want to investigate the hangar anyway... did you see anything unusual?"

So Shuichi believed her and was letting it go, huh? It meant Miu would put the taser off hold for now. If Shuichi had still doubted her and cornered her, she would probably have her first test subject of a memory erasure invention she made with the thought, 'What if I want someone to forget something I don't want them to know?' For some reason, a part of her was a little disappointed it didn't come to that... but that was surely her imagination. Back to Shuichi's question...

"Huh, no. I was too busy examining the Exisals," Miu scoffed, short and precise.

"And Monokuma let you do that?" Shuichi asked, with a raised brow.

"Well... I- I tried to touch them but suddenly the Monokubs just appeared and shooed me away," Miu lied bitterly, patting herself on the back for making up that lie on the spot.

"Now," Miu said, trying to turn the tables of this conversation, her suspicions on Shuichi obviously not off the hook, "Why do you want to investigate the hangar so bad? You say you have been investigating the Academy to check if you missed something, so did you find anything?"

"Um... not really," Shuichi said, surprised at the turn of the conversation and scratching his cheek subconsciously in the process, "But all there's left is the hangar, so I feel like searching it again. Excuse me, Iruma-san..."

Shuichi meant to sidestep Miu and went inside the hangar himself, but Miu's hand immediately caught Shuichi's shoulder, stopping him short. Startled, he rounded on Miu and asked questioningly, "Iruma-san?"

Miu didn't want Shuichi to know what was done to the Exisals if he ever noticed anything during his investigation. It's honestly a hassle but she better accompany him throughout so nothing would be revealed.

"I'm coming in with you. I ain't letting you investigate by yourself... unless you have something to hide," Miu said with narrowed eyes.

Shuichi was shocked at her statement and became flustered to the point he stuttered a little, "U- uh, I... I don't have anything to hide, Iruma-san. I'm glad you are willing to help me out."

"I never said I was helping you," Miu said, "I just want to join in your little investigation. If it could actually get us out of this hellhole, then I'm all for it. We have been at it for fucking forever without any way to escape, damn it."

"Yeah..." Shuichi sighed softly at Miu's words, as they both were once again inside the hangar. Miu made sure that Shuichi didn't get too close to the Exisals, but for now, at least he was more interested in the other things around him. She wasn't exactly sure what he's up to.

"What are you hoping to find anyway?" Miu asked Shuichi who seemed to be searching for something...

Shuichi didn't even hear her question, overly focused with his inspection. Miu, annoyed, got closer to Shuichi and gave him a tap on his shoulder. He jumped at such contact and then looked at Miu who huffed at him.

"I asked, what are you hoping to find anyway?" Miu asked.

"... Nothing in particular," Shuichi eventually said, "Anything, I guess, that will help us uncover the truth and stop the despair of this killing game."

"So you don't know what you are looking for?" Miu asked as her eyes narrowed. For some reason, she didn't believe that but maybe that's her consistent paranoia talking that even with everything that happened to her, it won't go away or maybe because everything that happened, her paranoia was here to stay. Whatever the reason, she had become overly suspicious of everything and cautious as time ticked by.

"Yeah," Shuichi sighed softly, "But I'm sure I will know what I'm looking for when I see it."

"Sounds fucking useless," Miu said bluntly, "If you have no idea what and where you are looking for, wouldn't that be a waste of time?"

"I don't think so, Iruma-san," Shuichi said, "As long as I can find something to uncover the truth of this killing game and help us defeat Monokuma once and for all, wouldn't that be enough? If I could find something about the Gofer Project that could help us..."

Miu knew how exactly how useless and a waste of time that would be, considering the lies around this killing game. She was also doubtful of Shuichi's true intentions. Sure he investigated things once in a while but not like this, as if he was trying to find something. Also... Miu had good reason to believe it was something specific. His words did not match up with the way he determinedly search and eyed the whole place. It could be called looking for something suspicious, but then one would search randomly. Shuichi was moving with a purpose, one Miu could easily spot with her doubtful nature causing her to easily pick things up. 

Miu wondered whether this has anything to do with the motive. After all, Maki tried to kill Kokichi because of it. Himiko knows something that she believed others don't, and considering how individualistic the motives this time are, it would be believed that Himiko's suspicious actions might stem from the motive. Miu wondered what Shuichi had seen in his motive to make him search like that...

And what harm would it cause considering how all motives end, and almost end if you count the VR fiasco. That meant Miu had to stick around as long as Shuichi was in the hangar, not only to protect the Exisals but make note of anymore suspicious activities out of him. In a way, it's sad that Miu had to suspect all those people without giving them the benefit of a doubt but at the same time, with this killing game, one can never be too cautious.

Then, Miu simply had to keep her cards close to her chest and hurry up the plans later, if she wanted a moment of peace from all this...

***

'That bear... Really...' Kokichi thought, finding himself liking the challenge presented but exasperated all the same.

Currently Kokichi was making his way to Miu's Lab, finally rid of the nuisance of a bear that finally scrammed and gave him a peace of mind to think of his next moves. The bear offered a good proposition, and Kokichi decided to shut it down all the same back then. He remembered, after hearing Monokuma's insane plan to come, and Kokichi's involvement... to spice it up.

"After all, what could be more fun than a new kill and a little misdirection to boot?" Monokuma had said to sugarcoat his... extremely specific offer.

He remembered, after hearing the entirety of the plan, that it was a trap. Because it was obvious with him being an unpredictable nuisance that they would rather cut their losses. Kokichi weighing pros and cons outright refused, setting a challenge and a hella more to prepare out of this golden nuggets of information.

And for that, he needed to help Miu as much as he could with her inventions more than ever.

Kokichi assumed that when he opened up Miu's Lab, he would see her hard at work, maybe getting in with some of her inventions in ways only Miu can. But it was empty.

'What's that bitch up to now?' Kokichi thought, as he still made himself home and strolled through the Lab, looking through blueprints and inspecting inventions. Kokichi knew, within their divide and conquer approach, that maybe Miu was now out there dealing with one of the Four, or maybe two.

Because honestly, Monokuma is out as he was already preoccupied with Kokichi. Motherkuma was out because it would be risky going back into that room. The ones easiest available would be both the Monokubs and Exisals. Also with both of them going hand in hand, Miu might as well be dealing two birds with one stone.

Still, he wondered briefly how both Miu and Gonta were doing. Pointless wonder that will go nowhere without definite answer. It made him wish that he were able to communicate with them right now despite the distance.

'Ugh, should have made spy comms or something. Would have been useful now,' Kokichi thought as he took a spare piece of paper and worked on a prototype to get on with it.

It was thankful that during his time at the organization that he and his other members learned to be Jack of all trades from each and everyone of their specialties, tech obviously included, so they could get themselves out of any pinches if one member is temporarily unavailable.

Among the first things they had learned was to repair, upgrade or sabotage any tech pieces they might come in during their... operations. Back then, Kokichi took deep interest in spy tech that was oh so cool and amazing, something useful now since in deceit and hiding, the spy tech will naturally be handy.

'Yeah... feeling like James Bond now...' Kokichi thought, getting to work and making such pieces, humming to himself and continuing thinking his options through.

'Seems like the Endgame is the most suitable choice to go through against Monokuma, but if that bear makes the first move...' Kokichi kept on thinking, needing to figure out attack and defense tactics for a whole new problem.

To recap all the important things that happened so far for him... Kokichi had decided to dig through Tsumugi's room to find anything incriminating for him to find the jackpot of those audition videos, which would confuse many people, but not Kokichi who knew these were just mere pieces of the puzzle to a bigger truth they can't see.

Among those videos was one that somehow triggered his memories, all of them that did not make him doubt them the slightest unlike those Flashback Lights as they made too much sense and would also highly incriminate Danganronpa itself that there's no way they would risk anyone in this killing game having such memories.

So around that time, Kokichi assumed the trigger could only be planted by the ADR and apparently anyone who watched that would remember everything.

How they got into this killing game, why they auditioned, what the real truth of this game really was...

It was enough to make anyone's head spin and before Kokichi could have processed it all, Monokuma arrived and he had to focus on that problem by then.

Now alone, he could finish processing all his memories and with the additional information from Monokuma, Kokichi can see many pieces falling to place. All leading to a solid plan against all the enemies to be faced.

Of course Kokichi wasn't stupid to think that just because he had everything at his fingertips now that whatever happen next by any plan he devised would be fool proofed. He was aware of Murphy's Law, that anything can go wrong will go wrong. That just because he finally knew what to do doesn't mean it would go smoothly as that.

At least that's why backup plans exist but now, with just 3 days left... and with everything coming ahead, it was time to take down this killing game, by hook or by crook. And he can confidently say that, because he knew now that it's the best option.

Still... as he finished making the comms and tossing them around in thought, there was still Miu and Gonta to consider. Knowing them, they will most certainly think his plan would be straight up crazy, but really... talk to the jacket.

He admitted that teamwork was a valuable resource but worse comes to worse, he will work alone and bring his plans to fruition that best case scenario will end the game in its entirety and worst case scenario at least buy them some time... with a price.

Nevertheless, Kokichi already understood this late in the game, it was now or never and he had to be willing to do anything for the sake of the game. But if his memories were correct, no matter what happens, there is a chance that everyone will make it out alive.

... Huh? A lot of foreshadowing, but in a place like this, isn't foreshadowing a common theme to expect?

His initial plan when coming here was to help the slut with the inventions, but she wasn't here. Kokichi was only good with simple tech, better suited as an assistant to Miu if he wanted to get any inventions done. Despite Kokichi's pride, he wasn't stupid to believe he can do everything and always acknowledged other people's capabilities.

That didn't mean he would let himself be idle, especially when the enemy is already on the move, as they had blatantly told him. So he chose to retaliate by moving towards the Ultimate Robot's Lab.

Why there, people might ask. A scene flashed before his eyes, of flashes, explosions and lasers, that happened in that very room.

'Because there are weapons,' Kokichi thought, finally opening the door into Kiibo's Lab and getting his second look at it, 'Because weapons are generally useful to arm oneself against enemies.'

That kinda sounds like he's going to battle, which in all technicalities, he was. Or he was just kidding and weapons can be used much differently in this situation than generally thought.  Still though...

'Why would Shirogane-chan even let Kii-boy have this stuff?' Kokichi thought.

As expected of the cause of flashes, explosions and lasers, the Lab was filled with robot parts that also function as weapons you would mostly see in some mecha anime or something. If Kiibo had armed himself with any of these bad boys, he was more or less sure that they could all have busted themselves out of the End Wall and escape.

Then again, that thought did not even come to Kiibo himself who insists on being human and rejects the sci-fi that these weapons can do to him even if it could help them all.

... How convenient then that the robot has a personality that would subconsciously reject such an option for escape. Kokichi frowned, because honestly, he should have known.

'Kii-boy, huh?' Kokichi thought, as he continued examining the robot weapons around and even inspecting them to see their functions.

Kiibo has always been suspicious to Kokichi, because he's a robot, but there came in more proof of his suspicious behaviour. Despite finding out about the mastermind, the suspicions didn't go away.

Accomplices weren't out of the realm of possibilities, and at first, he had even suspected Miu and Gonta of it along with all the others as well, but it becomes less possible each day considering what happened for the both of them. Nevertheless, the KGB was a good excuse to keep an eye on them. With Kiibo, the accomplice theory was more dead on than anyone else here but he had no solid proof of the fact, only about his suspicious behaviour, because unfortunately Kiibo being a robot sadly couldn't be counted as proof.

Putting that aside, Kokichi made quick work trying to analyze the weapons that could be put to good use. Luckily, there was even a manual on how to use them, which was generous even if it was from Monokuma. But it was because the manual was from Monokuma that Kokichi didn't trust it in the slightest.

So, to make sure the manual was an authentic way to deal with the robot weapons at hand, Kokichi decided to test the weapon right now while following the instructions at hand. It was the perfect way to make things valid, and a bonus to actually play around with such cool things. He can enjoy himself for so long after all...

'Ooh... this laser canon. Let's see what this bad boy can do,' Kokichi thought as he took one of the weapons and flipped through the manual so he can find how to use it. At least, even an average person could use it without the weapon being attached to the robot. There is still a difference how a weapon is used between a person and robot.

With the robot, once the weapon is attached to the AI where any simple command from it will immediately control the weapon to their own purpose automatically. With a human, the weapon will have to be done manually, with the person using the controls provided and which was why Kokichi was forced to read the manual. If it was Kiibo, all he had to do was attach it to himself.

At least, it wasn't as complicated as it looks. The controls were adaptable. Once you turn off the safety switch, all you had to do was aim with a small screen giving visuals and then type a command to shoot. You can even give commands prior turning off the safety switch that would act by itself if you do.

And the manual ended up being the legit thing, while he continued experimenting without care because if this Lab survived the onslaught of lasers during the last time he visited, it would stand for another! The brilliant... wonderful and fun opportunities!

"Nishishi!" Kokichi laughed gleefully like a madman, enjoying the chaos as he unleashed a rapid fire laser to shoot down all the obstacles he prepared. He liked letting loose whenever he got the chance, being the child at heart he wanted to be like he was in DICE with the double purpose of testing the weapons. His eyes sparkled as he continued watching the targets get shot down one by one in quick succession. Well, until...

"Yagh!"

Kokichi immediately turned the switch off of the laser as one of the lasers shot close to the door almost hit Kiibo once he opened the door. Kiibo who would most definitely have a heart attack if he were a human looked around until he spotted Kokichi and shouted:

"Ouma-kun! What on earth are you doing?! And why are you playing around with that?!"

"Oh, spare me the riot act," Kokichi said, "I know I got your robo-panties in a twist, but it's not like you would have died from the shot... I think. I was just playing around with your awesome collection that you don't even bother to use. What a waste! That's why I'm using 'em!"

"Ouma-kun!" Kiibo shouted angrily as he ran towards him and immediately took the weapon off his hand.

"That was incredibly dangerous of you! You can't just go around and fiddle these things around for the fun of it. I could have gotten hurt or even worse if the shot wasn't just inches away from the door or I got in a few seconds later! And in this killing game no less where we already have so much to-"

"I told you to spare me the riot act," Kokichi said, covering his ears childishly as he faced away from Kiibo, "Geez, I swear you and all the rest are a bunch of adults. Why couldn't you act like the teenagers you are for a change and have a little fun? ... Oh, right, it's because you are a robot and don't even have an age."

"And even now, you resort to robophobia, Ouma-kun," Kiibo said, now extremely exasperated as he let out a sigh, "What are you doing here anyway? Why were you playing around with the weapons?"

"Why do I have to answer to you? You're not my Mom. How about you? What are you doing here?" Kokichi asked, turning to Kiibo again.

"This is my Lab, you know? It isn't strange for me to go into my Lab once in a while. But... I was actually looking for Iruma-san. Have you seen her?" Kiibo asked.

"Oh yeah I think I might have. She was also testing out the lasers and is about to shoot you right now," Kokichi said casually.

"Ouma-kun..." Kiibo said, glaring at Kokichi with a no-nonsense attitude going off. Those people are the worst, really. Couldn't even take a joke, and Kokichi, a child in heart or maybe that's a lie, simply sighed before he shook his head.

"Boring... I haven't seen Iruma-chan," Kokichi answered.

"Oh, I see. I wonder where Iruma-san could be," Kiibo said.

"What do you want with the slut anyway? Your 'maintenance'?" Kokichi asked, finger quoting the last word because he highly doubted maintenance are a bunch of R rated scenes or else what is sexual harassment anyway?

"Well..." Kiibo said, seeming to weigh his options whether he should tell Kokichi or not. It only made Kokichi narrow his eyes in suspicion at such actions.

"I glitched," Kiibo finally said, which genuinely surprised the now wide-eyed Kokichi.

"So that's why your trying to find Iruma-chan," Kokichi said, "The Monopad didn't help you?"

"Well... I know she's somewhere in the courtyard since they are not really specific but I haven't found her yet. If I couldn't find her, I just thought that I would wait in her Lab until she comes in. And you are also coming with me now," Kiibo said, suddenly grabbing Kokichi's hand and pulling him away from the Ultimate Robot's Lab.

"Hey... wait, it hurts! Let go of me! If you pull my arm out, you will have my organization to answer to!" Kokichi cried out, trying to get out of the robot's surprisingly strong grip. He remembered one time Kiibo said he wasn't really strong. As strong as a senior citizen, his foot!

"I'm sorry Ouma-kun but I'm not letting you go," Kiibo said firmly, "You shouldn't have been messing around with my Lab. This is to prevent you from doing anything that could harm you and the others if you kept on going."

Eventually, Kokichi found himself with Kiibo in Miu's lab and finally said, "And leaving me in Iruma-chan's Lab is any better?"

If Kiibo, who was among the ones that had personally experienced The Censor Massacre aka whatever happened in Miu's Lab during the motive, thought that Miu's Lab was any less dangerous, he must be seriously broken now, which might be why he's glitching. Kokichi only had a glimpse of Miu's Lab of that time and he would never think it the same way ever again.

"There aren't any dangerous weapons, unlike my Lab. I will have to find a way to confiscate the weapons there so that won't happen again..." Kiibo said, glaring at Kokichi and he begged to differ about the part of dangerous weapons part but he wasn't one to beg so he didn't say it aloud.

"Sheesh, you seemed to be functioning properly if you can glare and scold me like that," Kokichi said, throwing up his hands dramatically, "Are you really sure you glitched, Kii-boy?"

"Uh, well... that's what Shirogane-san and Gonta-kun said. We were watching rom-coms when I suddenly... turn off I guess and when I came back, I didn't remember anything. That's when Shirogane-san said I glitched."

"Oh, has this happened to you before, Kii-boy? I didn't think you were faulty like that," Kokichi said.

"Actually, I'm not faulty at all," Kiibo said, crossing his arms, "It's just... when I was first made, sure I probably glitched like this but the Professor has come a long way since and I never really had such problems until now. It's weird."

No problems until now, huh? Kokichi immediately thought of his own motive, where he saw Kiibo blatantly being controlled to capture him... Flashback Lights were supposed to be lies, but he couldn't ignore how highly suspicious and possible it could be.

"Hopefully, it's just a one-time thing," Kiibo sighed, and can robots even sigh?

Robophobia aside, Kokichi felt it was better to wait out for Miu too, so he could give her the earpiece he made as a spy comm so he loitered around, playing with Miu's inventions in the process. Kiibo naturally stopped him from doing so.

"Ouma-kun, why are you being like this?" Kiibo asked after the umpteenth time he stopped Kokichi once again from testing out a dubious invention. There could be a lot of reasons for that, but Kokichi wouldn't say because he's a liar.

So Kokichi didn't deign to answer and smile benignly at Kiibo. Kiibo sighed for the umpteenth time as he put down Miu's invention away from Kokichi.

"Actually... Ouma-kun, there's always something I wanted to ask you."

"Huh, there is?" Kokichi asked, surprised Kiibo bothered to actually try having a proper conversation with someone like him. Sometimes Kokichi approached Kiibo if it looks like something fun would happen, like solving the mystery of Shuichi being a girl or not, but otherwise Kiibo tends to avoid Kokichi. He could never imagine what kind of question there is Kiibo wanted to ask.

"Why are you so mean to me?" Kiibo asked.

"Huh? That's all you want to ask, Kii-boy? I'm always like this to everyone. It's not like you are anything special," Kokichi said casually.

"Then, why do you even bother to act like that with everyone? Don't you think this is inappropriate behaviour especially in the killing game? Ouma-kun, we all want to just survive in this killing game and escape together, even you despite your antics. Don't you feel the same way too? Wouldn't it be easier if you tried to be more serious, less mean to everyone especially to me and help us?" Kiibo asked.

"You had all the time in the world to persuade me like that if you truly wanted me on your side," Kokichi remarked, knowing Kiibo had quipped about Kokichi's behaviour against teamwork but never pushed it until now, "So why now? Unless... Kii-boy, don't tell me, you are starting to have feelings for me. ... Wait, you said that you have been watching a rom-com, right? Could it be that you were influenced by the enemy to lover trope?! I can't believe you!"

"What? What are you talking about? There is no such thing!" Kiibo shouted adamantly before continuing, "And why now, you ask? ... Well, my inner voice is saying that I should ask for your assistance, persuade you to join my side. Because that's where our hope lies, facing everything together against the despair that is Monokuma and this killing game. I agree with it as well. Ouma-kun, you are annoying and mean, but... we need to be together to overcome this motive. We could even be friends after everything and escape together. After all, we had fun times together despite everything. Why don't we continue those fun times?"

After such a statement, all Kokichi could do was laughed wildly, causing Kiibo to frown.

Kokichi then sneered at Kiibo, "Didn't I say it before? How it would be better that everyone not cooperate and do their own thing? I still stand by that. Teamwork will only cause us suffering because it's painful to be betrayed by those you believed. Not only that, how can I believe someone like you? Nice effort, but I play by my own rules."

"Ouma-kun..." Kiibo called out, almost sadly but Kokichi thoroughly ignored him now and started to pick up another one of Miu's inventions which caused Kiibo to divert his attention away from that conversation. Where did he even get that BS anyway? Sure, there's Gonta who chose to believe everyone, but Kiibo? When Kokichi was pretty mean to himthat it would be no surprise if Kiibo hated him and yet...

Kokichi internally shook his head. He would not be fooled. Kiibo was extremely suspicious now. The glitching, that inner voice's suddenness in wanting Kokichi to join his side and the fact that Monokuma has a plan ongoing. All of those screamed red flags! He refused to give in, choosing to doubt Kiibo despite the supposedly heartfelt statement he bestowed, because he couldn't easily believe... not when the stakes were too high as usual.

***

"Ah... how did we make such a mess just from watching episodes like this?" Tsumugi asked exasperatedly as she started sweeping away the stray popcorn on the floor.

"Gonta not sure, but Gonta think it best to just tidy up," Gonta just said, putting the CDs back into their boxes and to the right shelves.

"Too bad Kiibo-kun couldn't stick around any longer. I wonder what's happening to him..." Tsumugi said aloud as they continued cleaning up, and Gonta hummed in agreement.

It was about 2 to 3 episodes into the rom-com that something was wrong with Kiibo. As they were about to watch another episode, Kiibo suddenly buzzed, his eyes became this kind of electric blue and when Gonta tried to ask what's wrong, Kiibo didn't even respond. When Kiibo finally came back to, he looked worried and said:

"I... did something happen?"

Tsumugi was the one to answer, saying hesitantly, "Well, Kiibo-kun... you just... glitched."

"Yeah, Gonta try calling Kiibo-kun but didn't respond," Gonta said.

"Re- really? Is there something wrong with me?" Kiibo asked, fretting over himself, "I should go and see Iruma-san so she can check up on me. I hope it's a minor problem."

"Sure, you do that. Your health is more important, after all. We will tidy up the AV room, you just go and check yourself out," Tsumugi said reassuringly.

"Yeah, I will do that. Sorry, Shirogane-san, Gonta-kun, that I had to interrupt watching the episodes like this," Kiibo apologized.

"It's not Kiibo-kun's fault," Gonta reassured, "Gonta hope you take care of your problem."

"Thank you, Gonta-kun, Shirogane-san," Kiibo said and then left, where now presently Tsumugi and Gonta were both cleaning the AV room. Gonta could only hope Kiibo would be fine but he was worried where the glitching came from. It could be some malfunction or...

This was not his area of expertise. It would do him no good to speculate. It would be easier to focus on what he could do.

So Gonta continued talking to Tsumugi, using the opportunity that they are alone to start questioning. However, Tsumugi could lie easily and Gonta wouldn't know. In that case, he would have to find questions where Tsumugi couldn't be bothered to lie. In hindsight, he wished he could just ask her directly-

"Gonta-kun, you should stop involving yourself with Iruma-san and Ouma-kun."

"Huh? What does Shirogane-san mean? Why Gonta should stop being involved with Iruma-san and Ouma-kun?" Gonta asked, surprised at this left field thrown at him.

"Well, I don't want to badmouth any of our classmates but Iruma-san and Ouma-kun are bad influences, Gonta-kun. I just don't think it's good that you stick around them for long or else something bad might happen to you."

"Something bad?" Gonta asked, but Tsumugi didn't go to specifics with that one. Instead she said:

"Just please follow my advice, alright, Gonta-kun? I don't really want anything bad happening to you."

"Thank you for your concern, Shirogane-san," Gonta eventually said shyly, but within his mind, he kept on thinking why.

It was really out of the blue. Maybe Tsumugi was really worried about his well-being but it was surprising to be warned off Miu and Kokichi now when she could have done it any other times before. And why him? Why not the others?

"But..." Gonta suddenly said, which wiped off all relief from Tsumugi's face from his thanks, "Gonta will still hang out with Iruma-san and Ouma-kun."

"What? Why?" Tsumugi asked.

Gonta smiled, "Because they are bad influences, like Shirogane-san said. And Gonta want to help them become better than that. If like Shirogane-san said and something bad happened to Gonta because Gonta hang out with them, what about Iruma-san and Ouma-kun themselves? Gonta don't want anything bad to happen to them either. That's why Gonta involved with them, to protect them."

Tsumugi simply stared at Gonta for a moment, before she finally mumbled, "What a pure and innocent character."

Gonta decided to press on, getting an idea from Tsumugi's line of conversation to come up with something that will hopefully help him understand her better.

"After all," Gonta finally said, "Ouma-kun and Iruma-san are trying their best to escape killing game. Kiibo-kun, Saihara-kun, Momota-kun and the others, they also try in their own way. Gonta really want to help because Gonta don't know what to do. It same for you, right, Shirogane-san? To escape game."

"Yeah..." Tsumugi said, nodding wistfully, but Gonta would never know if it is true or false. He simply continued to the real question that would give a sustainable answer. Something he really wanted to tell Tsumugi ever since he found out she was the mastermind, ever since he read the blackmail material and now had the opportunity to do so.

"Gonta... really sad there many death in killing game. Why... why would Monokuma do this to us? Why cult... want to do this to us? Why they want to risk life to make game that just hurt people?" Gonta finally asked. He could never tell this to Tsumugi directly but he wanted to know what she would answer in general. The only problem was that Gonta would never know whatever she said next was true or false.

Tsumugi was awfully silent at Gonta's question as if unable to respond, but finally she did, "Well... I guess they are just following the example of Enoshima Junko, Ultimate Despair. The one who did all those horrible things in the name of despair and even died because of it. All because it wasn't boring. Who knows? Maybe the cult is doing this because they share the same mindset as Enoshima, that despair is the only thing good thing they can get out of a boring world."

'Is that how you feel, Shirogane-san? When you accepted the position? Because you wanted to feel the despair?' Gonta thought but didn't say aloud.

Instead he asked, "Shirogane-san, what do you think of this despair? Gonta don't really understand..."

Tsumugi sighed, "I don't understand either, Gonta-kun."

Gonta frowned a little, the conversation not going as he quite hoped. It was too general to get anything out of Tsumugi personally and this approach wasn't working as well as he hoped. The only way to get anything truly out of Tsumugi would be the direct approach, but wouldn't that be too risky? Should he really do it?

Yet, the urge to know Tsumugi better, the want to switch Tsumugi back to their side and the doubt that she even willingly signed up for the mastermind all welled up in him that he decided it was a risk worth taking when there was nowhere to go and asked, "Then, why you mastermind, Shirogane-san?"

Tsumugi gasped lightly, as if this was the last thing she expected to hear and immediately after that, her face became totally blank and expressionless. She did not say anything to the question, letting a tense silence reign the room.

Uncomfortable, Gonta spoke up again, "Shi- Shirogane-san...?"

Tsumugi finally sighed as her features remained eerily neutral and started saying, "Well, this is unexpected. I knew that you found out but I never imagined that you would just reveal that you knew my identity in front of me like this. So... who put you up to this? Ouma-kun?"

To Gonta's surprise, Tsumugi didn't even deny it and she claimed that she was already aware of Gonta knowing about the mastermind and even his true involvement with Kokichi and maybe Miu as well.

Tsumugi's blank expression shifted with a smirk now on her face at the blatant surprise Gonta was now showing, "Why are you so surprised? Monokuma sees everything and with my... involvement of this killing game, I get to see everything too. Anyway, you didn't answer my question. Who put you up with this? Why would you reveal that you know who I am just like that?"

Everything was out in the open. Gonta had no reason to lie and said truthfully, "Ever since Gonta find out you mastermind, Gonta always wanted to know why. Why Shirogane-san mastermind? No one put Gonta up for this. Gonta do it for himself because Gonta want to help Shirogane-san. Shirogane-san can escape with everyone together and atone for your sins. Gonta hope-"

Laughter erupted, interrupting and startling Gonta for how broken and twisted it sounded, matching the broken and twisted look Tsumugi was now giving him. It truly unnerved Gonta but it didn't scare him. He just wondered how he could help Tsumugi now, as he tried approaching her, hoping to comfort her in some way. To know more and... understand.

Before he could do anything, Tsumugi stopped laughing and said, "Hope? Hope for what in this despairful killing game? Help me after everything I've done? Want to know why I'm the mastermind when the reason is plainly obvious to see?"

Gonta frowned a little, and said, "Gonta don't think reason that obvious. So why, Shirogane-san?"

"For despair, why else," Tsumugi said, her arms wide open dramatically, "Just like Enoshima-sama and everyone afterwards who continued this killing game. They all did this in the name of despair that continues onward after being passed from person to person through the means of Danganronpa because they want the game to continue. What other reason do I need?"

"But did you really want it, Shirogane-san?" Gonta asked, "Do you really understand about despair? Does it really appeal to you, Shirogane-san? When you are so happy with your cosplays and talking with others. When you always care about Gonta from time to time. Gonta don't think someone despairful would do anything like that."

Silence reigned before Tsumugi snorted, "You are too naive. Of course all of it is plainly a lie. What else is there to it when I'm supposed to blend with you all before the grand reveal like all great antagonists of their time?"

"Then, why did you tell Gonta not to involve with Iruma-san and Ouma-kun? Are you... worried for Gonta?"

Tsumugi didn't answer. She was shocked that Gonta went with this angle and she seemed to be finding an answer before finally saying, "It's just part of my character after all. But what are you going to do now, Gonta-kun? Can Gonta-kun really save the despairful mastermind, Tsumugi Shirogane? Tune in!"

"... Does that mean you want to be saved, Shirogane-san?" Gonta asked.

"Hmm? What makes you think that? I'm just simply adding commentary for this situation now. Add some spice, or maybe some fourth wall breaking for this game. That wall doesn't deserve to have any tape over it! Anyway, I'm done here, Gonta-kun. You know I'm the mastermind but I doubt you will reveal it to the others. You know very well what happens if you do, unless you too want to experience the despair if you do. Not that I mind~"

With that, Tsumugi lef with a smile but Gonta wasn't finished speaking since he had many more questions and chased her while crying out, "Wait!"

However Tsumugi was a surprisingly fast runner and Gonta had yet to caught up with her, especially when she did many twists and turns around the Academy, making it harder to keep track of her. Gonta rewound every part of the conversation that he had with Tsumugi.

'Shirogane-san could be like Ouma-kun,' Gonta thought.

A liar hiding their true actions. A villain having a hero's heart. Kokichi had always acted like a bad guy but after the mind reader, he acted like one to simply protect and isolate himself from others for fear of the mastermind in order for him to save others behind the scenes. What about Tsumugi?

When Kokichi acted like a bad guy before, Gonta had still believed in him despite it. With all the fun he has with his antics, all the antagonism he does against others, it was all exaggerated and dramatic, not sincere. Without sincerity, there's no real truth which was why he could believe there was some good in him despite distrusting Kokichi that time so he wouldn't be easily tricked. Now he knew better.

There wasn't any sincerity within Tsumugi's hesitation and dramatic answers, so he found this similar to Kokichi's situation before. Her silence also spoke louder than words, that there was more that meets the eye. That could be all false but he sincerely doubted the darkness that Tsumugi portrayed and there was more hidden within.

Gonta had to try his best to save Tsumugi no matter what Miu or Kokichi thought about her. Sure she's the mastermind but she was still a person who has a right to be saved like everyone else in the world if she truly wants it and will atone for all the wrongdoings in return. So he would endeavor on the quest alone, because he... doubt that Miu and Kokichi wouldn't be rash about it.

In the end, while Gonta tried to search Tsumugi after she lost him, he had met Himiko instead.

"Nyeeh?! Gonta, why were you running?" Himiko asked after she barely managed to dodge Gonta's run that he managed to slow down once seeing Himiko which allowed her narrow escape.

"Oh, sorry, Yumeno-san. Gonta was looking for Shirogane-san. Yumeno-san seen her?" Gonta asked.

"No, I haven't seen Shirogane. Why are you looking for her?" Himiko asked.

"Gonta want to talk to her," Gonta said evaisively, "What Yumeno-san doing?"

He remembered about the suspicious activity that the bugs reported to him. This could also be a good chance to check out her involvement with ADR. 

"...Nothing really," Himiko responded.

"Then, Yumeno-san want to join Gonta searching for Shirogane-san?" Gonta asked.

"Nyeeh... well, sure, I guess," Himiko said, and then followed Gonta as they started searching around the Academy. He hoped to find Tsumugi soon, his questions unanswered. Doubts needing cleared and an opportunity for everyone to be saved...

"Gonta, what did you want to talk about with Shirogane?" Himiko asked.

"Something personal, Yumeno-san, so Gonta can't tell you. Gonta sorry," Gonta said apologetically.

"Nyeh, personal, huh?" Himiko asked, but Gonta decided to change the subject.

"What has Yumeno-san been doing?" Gonta asked.

"Nyeeh... nothing much," Himiko said tiredly but smiled all the same, "I've been trying to find out what to do to escape this killing game, but I didn't really find anything yet... I'm sure I will find something one day!"

"Does Yumeno-san have any ideas?" Gonta asked, "To escape from game?"

If she does, even an inkling, there was a possibility of her being the ADR.

Himiko shook her head, "I wish. That way, we can help out and keep going forward, but I don't know. Even my idea spell failed to help me with that. Monokuma must have many defensive spells against me..."

Hmm... that might mean there was a low possibility of Himiko being an ADR, but as usual, he couldn't be too sure. Gonta wished things were more simplistic but it wasn't that easy. He also wished he could go with the direct approach like what he done with Tsumugi but there were still risks and consequences that come with it.

Tsumugi might not have done anything to Gonta but he didn't want to push it. No matter what, she's still the mastermind and she was affiliated with Monokuma. The only reason why he revealed that he knew Tsumugi's identity to her was because he sought for answers. But he refused to let her know what he and the rest of the KGB are up to if she still kept an eye on all of them. He wanted to save Tsumugi but he was worried she will sabotage him. Because in the end, life will never be easy. He learned that the hard way.

So Gonta reassured Himiko, "Don't worry, Yumeno-san. Let's find ideas together."

"Nyeeh... yeah... let's find ideas and escape the game with our friends! I will make sure nothing happens to them. I even cast a protective spell on you, Gonta."

"Thank you, Yumeno-san," Gonta said, smiling, but wondered what she said was true or not. Ever since the VR fiasco... no, probably ever since the Insect Meet or Greet, Gonta knew he couldn't discern what people say were truth or lies. Mostly, he chooses to believe in people until he couldn't. In this case, he couldn't really believe Himiko, her suspicious activities making it easier to doubt her instead.

There were too many truths and lies among what is said and in the silence. While Gonta sought for Tsumugi, protecting his friends and helping the KGB, Gonta just strived on, doing what he believed necessary even if it meant doubting his friends and handling what he feels that could be done only by himself like now if he wants everyone to be alright.

Chapter Text

"Iruma-chan!!!" Someone immediately tackled Miu into a hug once she arrived to her Lab after that pretty much uneventful hangar search with Shuichi. She didn't forget to add a tracker on him as well in case he did anything suspicious later, but the danger level she felt from him was lower than Himiko.

She had looked down to see it was Kokichi hugging her with a beaming smile and even clasping her hands in glee. Miu pushed him away in a disgusted voice, "Get off me you brat! You just wanted to get a feel of this busty bod, do ya? Too bad you ain't my type."

As she pushed him away, she had noticed something inside one of her hands and saw it was an earpiece. She looked questioningly at Kokichi, but before she could even ask...

"Iruma-san, are you OK?" Kiibo asked, Miu now noticing him as he ran towards her. Looking around, it seemed both Kokichi and Kiibo had been loitering around her Lab before she got here. There was no sign of Gonta.

Miu had came back to her Lab, expecting Kokichi and Gonta to start a discussion of their findings throughout the day and find a way to deal with the more troublesome things short term such as Himiko's suspicious activity before going to the long term which were the Four and how to proceed with that. So she didn't expect this to happen.

Kokichi continued talking as Miu processed the unexpected bits, "Well great for me that I'm not your type then! As if I want a slut who thinks with her pussy than her brain, if you have one anyway. Because anyone with a brain wouldn't be so mean to push me back like that after I gave such a warm loving hug."

Kokichi teased Miu as usual, smirking as he saw her shrinking once again to his playful insults and feeling flushed every time someone insults her like that. Through her fluster, she noted that Kokichi had been tapping on his ear when talking and seeing an earpiece the same as the one he gave her.

He mouthed, 'Wear it. Kiibo must not see.'

Miu didn't know what his game was but it probably has to do with the KGB. Weighing the pros and cons, she pretended to cover her ears while putting the earpiece in her ear and shot back, "S- slut... who thinks with my pussy than my brain? T- take that back, you imp. I'm a gorgeous girl genius with the most golden brain out there in the whole world!"

"Absolutely no way," Kokichi said, putting his tongue out, "I'm totally getting out here now 'coz I'm not in the mood for anything rated M for Miu. Laters."

With that, Kokichi zipped out before Miu could even ask. Not as if she had the chance to even talk with Kiibo already right in earshot and asking, "Iruma-san, what was that about?"

Miu now turned to Kiibo and said, "The usual. Anyway, why are you here, Kiibs? Do you need maintenance already?"

Putting aside what's the earpiece all about, her full attention now shifted to Kiibo, waiting for the answer to her question. Maybe it was time to maintain him again since it had been a few days so something might need a good fixing.

"Yes, Iruma-san. I just glitched and I fear it will happen again. It's strange, because it's been a long time since I had that kind of problem. Will you help me?" Kiibo asked.

"... Glitched, huh? Don't worry, Kiibs. I'm sure we can find out why. Just let me get my tools," Miu said.

"Thank you, Iruma-san!" Kiibo said happily while Miu smiled at him and proceeded to get her tools, but beneath that smile laid worry about why Kiibo glitched, of all times.

Miu didn't want to read too much into it, but she didn't forget that the Monokubs let slip that Monokuma had something important to do.

At first, Miu thought it might have something to do with Kokichi or Gonta but the fact something happened to Kiibo was too coincidental for Miu to pass off. After all, the Monokubs never specified what Monokuma was exactly planning, just something.

The most she could do now was to find out why Kiibo glitched. If it had anything to do with Monokuma's scheme...

'Kiibs,' Miu thought as she continued getting the tools she felt needed for this operation. To Miu, he was a great masterpiece and friend. It hurts that something could possibly be done to him by Monokuma. She didn't want that... so she will have to do what she can, but before that...

"HELLOOO FROM THE OTHER SIIIIIDDE!"

"Gah!" Miu let out from that ear shattering singing immediately bursting into her ear drum, singular.

"Iruma-san, is everything alright?" Kiibo asked Miu in concern but Miu smiled it off.

"It's nothing, Kiibs. I was just thinking, alright?" Miu smiled it off that at least made Kiibo back off politely. Thank God for small favors.

Because she needed to deal with a certain little shit. And why the hell sing that in the first place?! Unfortunately, she couldn't really complain all that out loud unless she wanted Kiibo to think her a nutjob, because she wasn't one of course.

"Ah, judging by your reaction, you totally heard me and I can totally hear you too, along with Kii-boy actually. Behold my masterpiece spy earphone that can pick up everything in the surroundings, perfect for eavesdropping!"

"Then, why did I have to wear it? As long as it was anywhere in the Lab..." Miu asked, quieting her voice down to look like she was mumbling to herself in Kiibo's perspective. Thankfully, she had done that too during their past maintenances so this wouldn't be too unusual but she had to be quick about it if she didn't want to raise Kiibo's suspicions.

"No can do. After all, what's the use if I can't communicate with you, Iruma-chan? The very purpose of spy earphones for the dual purpose of communication and eavesdropping to the juiciest gossip. A must need for any organization, especially ours now," Kokichi said.

"When the fuck have I been in an organization? Just get straight to the point. You just killed my fucking eardrum, so tell me one reason why I shouldn't crush the earphone underfoot already," Miu said in a quiet yet audible voice, irritated to her core.

"Yeesh, you can still hear me fine so ear murder might be a tad excessive, Iruma-chan, but we don't have much time anyway so I'll get straight to the point. Kiibo's glitching is hella suspicious and there are many things I wanna ask about it, but this is something that only you can do, Iruma-chan."

"Only I can do, huh?" Miu asked, pride and superiority now welling up in her at those words as those feelings let her say this next, "If that's the case, then why bother butting in? Let me handle this myself and fuck off."

"Ehh, don't be like that, Iruma-chan. After all, when did a second insight hurt, especially with moi considering our... partnership before then. And even so, after what I got into since our divide and conquer strategy, there's so many things I need to ask Kii-boy but since he trusts you more than me, this is the best arrangement, yeah?"

As Miu absorbed his words, the term partnership struck her. She knew it was Kokichi's way easing her into agreeing letting him listen in but it still reminded her of the times he first approached her that day until the VR fiasco. It briefly brought up memories of surprising mutual benefit where Miu worked in her Lab on those requested inventions and Kokichi giving out ideas that helped her improve as an inventor. They had help each other through those requested inventions despite Miu complaining doing those commissions and Kokichi's whining that he had to help Miu with the small stuff like an errand boy, exaggerated of course, if he wanted to stick around in her Lab. They even had a certain understanding with each other after a body swap incident...

Thinking as such, it was confounding that Miu ended up betraying such a partnership after her paranoia won and chose to kill. It brought up once again a what-if about Kokichi to Miu. What if Miu believed in Kokichi and his plan back then and decided not to kill? At least she wouldn't have nearly died...

In the end, there was nothing she could do with such what-ifs. What she could do, with the same resolve when she chased down Kokichi with Gonta for answers and formed the KGB that day, was to believe in him a little instead of complete doubt before. To believe in the partnership and work together that could help them both... Before she decided anything further, there was a point needed to be elaborated.

"What you got into?" Miu asked, curious and anxious to whatever Kokichi found out because the way he said it and how it was related to Kiibo couldn't be any good. It only further confirmed in Miu's mind that whatever was happening to Kiibo was definitely related to Monokuma and the killing game.

"Eh, it would be too much to explain now. Better when we ,  including Gonta ,  get together, but just so you know, at least, it has our lives on the line depending on how Kii-boy really is."

"Is that so?" Miu asked, thinking it through before finally saying, "As long as you don't yammer any bullshit and get it with valid questions, then I'll play along."

After all, Miu decided there was barely any demerit in Kokichi listening and asking his questions. Kokichi's input might even help her solve Kiibo's problem quicker as well finding out what Kokichi himself was up to and what she could do about it by reading between the lines if she could. She turned around to Kiibo, tools at the ready along with the desire to get to the bottom of Kiibo's glitch since her concern only grew deeper through Kokichi's cryptic comments.

"Now, Kiibs," Miu started, determined, "I just want you to tell me how you glitched. What happened before, during and after. If we can find where this all came from, then we would know why it happened."

"Huh, so you are starting there? And here I thought that you would just immediately fuck him."

'I didn't ask for your fucking commentary,' Miu almost let slip but was able to keep to herself, sneering at the insinuation that she fucked everything that moved. Miu could respect boundaries when she wanted to, or else how would Kiibo agree to let Miu do maintenance on him?

"Hmm..." Kiibo said, before he started explaining about his rom com hang out with Tsumugi and Gonta which his glitching interrupted and he had no memory of until it was pointed out by the both of them.

"Any symptoms?" Miu prompted but she only got a shake of the head after a moment of thinking from Kiibo.

"I actually can't remember," Kiibo confessed, "Maybe I did, but I don't know. Shirogane-san and Gonta-kun didn't say anything about it either. So maybe it was just the memory lapse and unresponsiveness that happened during that time?"

"Hmm... or maybe both just didn't think to tell you such things at the time," Miu said contemplatively. Maybe what Kiibo said was what happened but since his memory lapse, she couldn't be too sure either. Still, it didn't stop her from moving to the next step of the procedure.

"Then, that means I have to check every inch of you then," Miu purred and started fiddling with Kiibo's machinery, each and every bit of him familiar to her after those past maintenance sessions. She had yet to see anything out of the ordinary but since this was just the beginning, she started asking questions to narrow down her search.

"Kiibs, before that glitching, did anything unusual happen to you?"

"Not anything I know of," Kiibo said, recalling the past few days and Miu hummed in acknowledgment, verifying those words with her check-ups . There was nothing of note through the maintenance that would cause some error in Kiibo in the first place, but at the same time, something must have happened to Kiibo for him to glitch after all this time in the killing game.

"Didn't Kii-boy have this inner voice with him? Ask what that inner voice of his thinks about Kii-boy's glitch."

Miu jumped a little at the voice but didn't find it unwelcome for her circumstances since she had to admit at that point, she was a little lost how to proceed and was going to ask ideas from Kiibo himself if Kokichi didn't interrupt. But still, Kiibo's inner voice, huh? ... Why didn't she thought of that in the first place?

She was aware of it's existence during her very first maintenance after Kiibo passed on the message from his inner voice calling them out for fanservice. From there, Miu learned that Kiibo's inner voice was something of a conscience in times of uncertainty and difficult decisions. In Miu's opinion, it completely contradicted Kiibo's purpose as a natural developing AI if he depended on his inner voice for important decisions which made it extremely suspicious.

Of course she wasn't saying that because she wanted the voice to fuck off but Kiibo being some version of Pinnochio, a puppet, didn't exactly sit right with her. Her opinion of it further soured when Kiibo got suckered into the cult although he insisted that he agreed into it wholeheartedly. Miu had wondered what Kiibo's Jimmy Cricket was even thinking.

She had suggested for it's removal but Kiibo was adamant against it, even claiming that it was a part of him. Miu ended up backing down, because not only was Kiibo firm about the whole thing but she didn't want to cause any friction between them since both wouldn't yield their stances and one had to give in before their arguments took a turn for the worse. Now, here they are... with Miu once again being suspicious of it and thinking she should have pushed harder for it's removal.

"Hey Kiibs, what does your inner voice think of the glitching?" Miu finally asked.

"My inner voice?" Kiibo asked, letting a moment of silence pass between them before speaking up again, "Huh? It won't respond. Maybe it has no idea either."

"Not being helpful now, huh? That inner voice of his is as useless as him. I wouldn't be surprised if the inner voice was the reason for the glitch, but that could be a lie. Only one way to find out. Ask where exactly Kii-boy's inner voice comes from, will you, Iruma-chan?"

"Too bad. With your inner voice as a conscience, I was hoping it would have some ideas. Speaking of your inner voice, Kiibs, where exactly does your inner voice come from?" Miu asked, going along with Kokichi for now to see where this goes next.

"What relevance does that question have to do with my glitching, Iruma-san?" Kiibo asked, a hint of curiosity and suspicion in his voice.

"Tell Kii-boy exactly this: Well, I have checked everywhere and couldn't find the problem. Maybe there's something wrong with your inner voice that caused the glitch in the first place. It's silence could probably mean it's malfunction, so knowing more to check whether it needs a fix could be extremely helpful, don't you think?"

'Smooth logic,' Miu thought. Repeating what he said to Kiibo, the robot nodded before responding:

"... You may be right, Iruma-san, but the silence of my inner voice doesn't mean it's malfunction. It worked just fine when it suggested me to bring Ouma-kun to our side. In fact, my inner voice is talking to me just fine now, saying that there's nothing to worry about. I don't think my inner voice could be the cause of the glitch."

"Wait..." Miu said, noting something very ridiculous, "You want to bring that annoying gremlin to our side? For what?!"

"Rude," Kokichi said but Miu straight up ignored it. Honestly, anyone who would want to work with Kokichi had to be either 'persuaded' or knew his true nature. Otherwise, no one in their right mind would bother. They would generally let Kokichi do his own thing as long as it's harmless. Unless Kiibo really knew Kokichi, asking to work together just like that was out of the ordinary.

"Don't say it like that, Iruma-san. Ouma-kun is many things but he's also in the same situation as us. Just because he's someone troublesome doesn't mean we should exclude him," Kiibo reasoned.

Miu just shook her head in disbelief nevertheless, the idea still as ridiculous as joining a cult that she wondered if that voice was long broken before now. As she was thinking of such, Kokichi's voice once again piped up in her ear.

"Kii-boy hasn't answered your question, Iruma-chan. No beating around the bush, yeah?"

"Kiibs," Miu spoke up, "You still haven't answered my question. Where does your inner voice come from? Even if you don't think it's malfunctioning, I still haven't checked it to be sure it wasn't the cause of the glitch. Any inventor worth their salt should know every nook and cranny of an invention to know it's functions and... it's possible problems."

"Judging by the moans and sounds from both you and Kii-boy, this is no time to get into heat. I know it's because it's you, Iruma-chan, but have awareness for your audience! No one is like your horny ass and wants to see or hear porn, thank you very much."

'Then, go bleach your ears and fuck off for all I care,' Miu thought, choosing to ignore him as she waited for Kiibo's response, who ended up shaking his head with a sad look on his face.

"I... I'm sorry, Iruma-san. But I'm as in the dark where my inner voice came from as you. I just know that it's a part of me ever since I have come to this world. I'm sorry I cannot help you anymore."

"How not suspicious at all, yeah right. Shouldn't a robot be aware of it's own program and how everything within him works? Why trust something as sketchy as that inner voice? For meatbags like us, we call it schizophrenia."

Robophobia aside, along with probably being wrong about schizophrenia even if Kiibo was technically hearing voices, Miu understood where Kokichi's suspicions come from and ever jumping to conclusions, it's more likely that Kiibo's inner voice is the reason for the glitch. But why and how?

That didn't matter. Prevention was better than cure. She really should have done this long ago.

"Kiibs, I think that the inner voice of yours caused the glitch. It's high time to remove it already," Miu declared.

The reaction was instantaneous. Kiibo's relaxed posture suddenly became defensive, his eyes narrowed suspiciously and there was a hint of worry on his features. He even stood up and moved toward Miu which startled her as she took a step back.

'Something must have happened. Something... to make him act like that when it wasn't this intense last time,' Miu thought.

Without even thinking, she found herself in a defensive position but stood firm all the same. This time, she wasn't budging with what needed to be done.

Even though, she knew that anything could happen by then. They weren't in a killing game for nothing, and she would never forget the target on her back, the schemes behind. Death looming over all of them with just one misstep, one possible landline but she couldn't ignore it all either.

Kiibo was her friend. Miu didn't want him in any of that reject plushie's schemes. And even if anything can happen, at least this time around, she wasn't alone.

'You will have my back, just like we had yours back then, right... Ouma?'

Remembering the time that they planned for possible 'eventualities' and the fact they carried it out in time for Maki and Kokichi that day, Miu was able to reassure herself of such while facing Kiibo.

After all, they are the KGB. Miu might doubt a lot of things but in these few days, she can at least believe this:

The KGB has had each other's backs. And so she steeled herself, as Kiibo spoke up.

***

"Why are you saying this of all times now? I already told you my inner voice is fine. There's no way that my inner voice could cause this glitch."

Kiibo's voice rang clear in Kokichi's ear. When he first gave Miu that earpiece, all he really wanted was to listen in their conversations, sure enough that whatever would happen by then could help him confirm a lot of theories and suspicions surrounding Kiibo, which were even more apparent by his sudden glitching and raising red flags with that strange inner voice requesting him to join forces after all this time without any reason except for that hopeful bullshit.

"You say that, but we haven't even checked, Kiibs. If your so sure and that inner voice of yours is fine, then I'll drop this. But I need to know Kiibs. Or else I stand by what I said."

The few questions he gave out were only to direct their conversations to certain answers he hoped to have in quest of confirmation. He had only heard interesting answers that proved his suspicions over Kiibo wasn't unfounded.

"Even so, how could you check my inner voice when you don't know where it is?"

"Just who do you think your talking to? This great  Iruma Miu  has every invention under the sun for all situations available. Behold the... Kiibs Analyzer, something I whipped up after hearing 'bout your inner voice and wanting to know whether you had any other functions hidden inside ya. I just never tested it 'til now 'coz there was no time for it back then."

"Umm... are you sure that thing's safe?"

Kokichi had been walking around, away from Miu's Lab so he won't be spotted around there and be suspected for any trouble for it later. Once he heard about how Tsumugi and Gonta were the ones who witnessed Kiibo's glitch, he kept his eyes out for Gonta, his whereabouts only known to be around the Academy by the Monopad, to ask about such. If one of those symptoms included blue flickering eyes...

Now, he was just tuned in to the confrontation between Miu and Kiibo, surprised by this turn of events and pitying the robot a little considering the inventor's eccentricities with her inventions.

"Don't doubt my capabilities now of all times! Just let me hook you up and get to the bottom of this. You can insist all you want that your inner voice isn't the cause of your glitch but I need cold, hard proof and what better way than this?"

"Iruma-san... I understand your logic, but I still think this is a bad idea. No, this is definitely a bad idea. I don't doubt your capabilities as an inventor, but I'm not risking it. I cannot let anyone tamper- BZZT! Proto- ... What? No... this isn't..."

"What? What's going on?" Miu asked, "Proto... protocol? What kind of protocol?"

"No... it's... I'm sorry, Iruma-chan. This is for your own good!"

"Wha-"

Sounds of crashing, a shout of surprise, writhing, clicking, moaning, questions, apologies and footsteps before...

"Goddamnit, he trapped me and ran away. Ouma, if you can hear me, catch up with Kiibs. I don't wanna admit this but he's too dangerous to let loose. I don't like this glitching, inner voice and that protocol of all things now. And the way Kiibs just ran away from me without even explaining..."

"Yeesh, I'm a supreme leader, not some errand boy but... if a useless subordinate can't fulfil their duty, it's up to the leader to pick up the slack. Things just had to escalate real quick."

With that, Kokichi rushed off towards Miu's Lab in order to corner Kiibo who just left and capture him. That meant he had to abandon his search for Gonta, although Kokichi hoped they could somehow meet halfway. Either way, he had no time to lose. Unfortunately, fate had other ideas. Bad ideas to be precise.

"There you are, sidekick. I've been looking all over for you."

It was coming from behind him and approaching Kokichi, so he ran away like the wind even more.

"Hey... wait! Where are you going?!" The voice shouted once again, and Kokichi didn't need to even look at the person to know it was the annoying hot blooded Kaito Momota. Kokichi would have some decency and faced Kaito to give an excuse if not for the word 'sidekick'.

"Far away from you, Momota-chan, because no way in this forsaken Earth am I going to be your sidekick!" Kokichi sneered as he kicked it up a notch and never looked back. But hearing the patter of feet behind him, he knew Kaito was still giving chase, stubborn and persistent bastard he was.

Kokichi immediately ran zig zag in the Academy, hoping to shake Kaito off and catch Kiibo ASAP.

He honestly didn't expect to meet up with Kaito like that. Not only was this the wrong time, he would hate to be subjected to that idiot's friendship and especially to those stupid push ups he had seen Kaito, Shuichi and Maki doing at night that he had seen when he prowled around outside the Academy at times. No, absolutely not. Not because he would be easily tired and make a fool of himself. Definitely not that.

When Kokichi decided to corner Kaito about his plans as a preventative measure in avoiding needless casualties, he did not expect to be dubbed as Kaito's sidekick, something he totally loathed with his supreme leader's pride on the line. After all, there were better ways to deal with Kaito, which he would get to eventually after finishing dealing with Kiibo.

If anyone was stupid enough to ask why he couldn't just ask Kaito to help him catch Kiibo, they have completely forgotten it was off the table by the very fact that Kokichi was a known liar. It would be no surprise whatsoever that Kokichi would procure no help from Kaito simply because such a plea would be dismissed easily as a lie. Even if that fact ceased to exist, this situation was too delicate that Kokichi couldn't ask help in the first place lest deal with questions and consequences too risky to even take.

If Kokichi wanted any help with such a dilemma, and since Miu was otherwise preoccupied, the only person he could even somewhat trust to help out...

"Save me, Gonta!" Kokichi cried out now, blessed that he saw Gonta running about round the corner and continued, "Monokuma suddenly let loose a monster after me. It's gonna kill us all. Waah!"

"Wha-?" Gonta asked, now stopped in his tracks as Kokichi hid behind his back and the so called monster caught up to them.

"Who are you calling a monster Ouma? Gonta, great timing. Hold him still for me. I'm not letting him get away this time," Kaito said as he neared Kokichi who had pretended to use Gonta as his meat shield and was now backing away from Kaito. Gonta still looked confused as of what action he should take so Kokichi chimed in:

"Hey, how dare you order my servant around like that? You don't have to listen to idiot Momota-chan. Now knock his lights out so he can stop chasing me like some lovesick puppy."

"Who are you calling a lovesick puppy? And Gonta is not your servant, Ouma," Kaito said, already within talking distance with Kokichi. Meanwhile, Gonta looked confused, his eyes darting back and forth between Kokichi and Kaito like a deer with headlights.

Deciding to waste no time, Kokichi would take flight once again hoping Gonta would at least distract Kaito to lose his track. Before he could even do that, Gonta suddenly rushed towards Kaito and karate chopped his neck, knocking his lights out while screaming, "Gonta sorry!" before Kokichi or Kaito knew what was coming.

For the very person who ordered Gonta to knock Kaito's lights out, what came out of his mouth was:

"What on Earth...?"

"Gonta really sorry! Gonta didn't know what was happening but worried this might be something like with Harukawa-san! Gonta didn't want anything bad to happen so Gonta... Why did Momota-kun chase after you, Ouma-kun? If it wasn't anything bad... uuh, Gonta really have to apologize to Momota-kun later. Gonta really panicked just now..."

Gonta, all flustered, said all that while he carried Kaito and propped him on the wall as comfortably as possible.  Kokichi could only dumbly processed everything before, as the liar he was, taking it all in stride and answered the following:

"Don't worry, Momota-kun is absolutely no danger to my being whatsoever. He was just chasing after me for 'sidekick' stuff I didn't agree on, but he had to butt in at such a crucial moment. Now, you gotta help me! We have to got catch Kii-boy to save Iruma-chan's ass. I'll explain everything along the way."

Without even asking, Gonta followed Kokichi as he took off towards Miu's Lab in the hopes of meeting Kiibo midway as he looked around his vicinity for even a hint of the metallic figure.

It's strange that Gonta took his word for it just like that without asking... without doubting. Considering his speech about distrust towards Kokichi when asked a few days ago, it absolutely made no sense that Gonta trusted Kokichi that easily without even asking questions in this situation.

"Oh, it's because Ouma-kun will explain along the way," Gonta suddenly piped up, "Gonta does have a lot of questions for Ouma-kun. But Gonta followed Ouma-kun first because Ouma-kun said 'most crucial time' so Gonta felt he shouldn't waste time and can just ask questions along the way."

"Huh, so I said that out loud," Kokichi said, referring to Gonta's trust towards Kokichi and how strange it was as he continued, "But isn't that a little too reckless? What if following me leads to the worst consequences for you? What if I led you to a trap instead? I could have lied to you, you know? In the end, doesn't that mean you trust easily?"

"If Ouma-kun says it like that, does that mean Ouma-kun won't lead Gonta to a trap?" Gonta smiled easily, "Gonta know what Ouma-kun said makes sense, but that's why Gonta want Ouma-kun to explain now and then Gonta decide for himself what to do."

"So, Gonta will ask now," Gonta continued, "What did Kiibo-kun do that we need to chase him and he's needed to save Iruma-san?"

"Ran away from Iruma-chan. Not that I blame him on any other day but he could do it without trapping Iruma-chan in the process. And there's something iffy about Kii-boy that Iruma-chan and I gotta retrieve him back and get to the bottom of this, got it?"

"Oh, Gonta see," Gonta said before he suddenly muttered under his breath. After a moment's of running, Kokichi noticed a shocked look on his face and without any warning, Gonta scooped him up and ran faster in a certain direction.

If Kokichi didn't know any better, Gonta was getting more and more surprising. As much as he loved surprises that staved off any boredom which he hated, even surprises would throw him off balance and made him think, 'What the heck is going on?'

This was one of them, so Kokichi would obviously asked, "Ooo, did you find something out, Gonta? For you to scoop me up and run away somewhere like this~"

"Oh, Gonta know where Kiibo-kun went. If it like Ouma-kun said, we need to get Kiibo-kun quickly and get him to Iruma-san and get to the bottom of it."

'But how do you know that?' Kokichi thought but did not say. Did he see Kiibo along the way? But then again, how that would explain this newfound determination?

'Or are you hiding something from me?' Kokichi thought, briefly recalling the way that Gonta muttered under his breath before taking action immediately afterwards. Kokichi would not discount that notion, because although it was Gonta, a naive and gullible person, it wasn't as if he couldn't hide something from both Miu and Kokichi.

If before, Kokichi wouldn't believe that notion, but these past days changed Gonta and Kokichi got to know Gonta even better after Gonta's previous insistence that he stuck closely to Kokichi and Miu ever since the VR fiasco so they have generally done plenty of things together lately.

Gonta was actually honest to a fault. So, he was not a liar like Kokichi, but Gonta... was quite capable of keeping quiet to things he rather not reveal or only saying half-truths that suggest something else for the other person. After all, as an example, that was how Gonta was able to help him out with the Maki situation without tipping her off about Gonta whatsoever.

The notion that Gonta would hide something, or at least not tell them outright, was not out of the possibilities. In fact, was it mere coincidence that Gonta even stumbled upon Kokichi right at that moment to help him out with Kaito?

Kokichi shook his head a little... that thought process was becoming a little too paranoid. And after the last time that he had too paranoid thoughts... it was better to rein them in. Kokichi wanted to believe that he was a person who could learn from his mistakes and grow from them. The mistakes of his past, doubting everyone so much until he felt he was all alone and driven to a corner without anyone to confide in... he would never repeat that.

If he became too paranoid and started doubting Gonta too much because of that, he would have one ally less, and might mistaken good intentions for bad, which could harm both Gonta and himself. For all Kokichi knew, whatever Gonta was hiding... if his meeting with Gonta back then when being chased after Kaito was not a coincidence, nothing bad happened to him.  This was Gonta that they were talking about. Someone whose personality, despite being more cautious, had not changed as much and was what he liked about Gonta.

Although Kokichi was far from completely believing his allies, Miu and Gonta, he had to believe in them a little, at least their good intentions, or he would never really have allies here. And, with everything that happened, everything he learned and experienced, he needed allies now, whether he liked it or not. In any case, he was stuck with Miu and Gonta ever since their first insistence to team up and form the new KGB.

They were not DICE, but they will do. Something he should have known a long time ago, even before the VR fiasco, even when things were going tough in the killing game... a leader is as worth as much as the trusted subordinates they have. A leader without them was not a leader at all, and Kokichi, even if people would believe it a lie, thrived as a leader.

With Miu and Gonta by his side this time around, Kokichi must never throw away that advantage. Never again, so although he would observe Gonta's hidden intention, he would not completely doubt him to the point he couldn't consider Gonta an ally. Distrusting an ally completely would mean not truly having an ally at all.

Eventually, within those thoughts that led to determination and understanding within, Gonta and Kokichi both spotted Kiibo in a distance, not running, but walking around and lost in thought. He was even muttering to himself, something that Kokichi could not catch but it seemed Gonta could.

"They can't do Protocol, not now, not ever. I don't... she shouldn't have... what can I do?" Gonta muttered to Kokichi before speaking, "That's what Kiibo-kun said. What does Kiibo-kun mean?"

So what Kiibo was about to say was really protocol. What was this 'protocol' that worried Kiibo this much? Does it have any relation to the Flashback Light? Obviously, it was very suspicious, so much so that Kiibo reacted aggressively enough to trap Miu and run away from her. Was this 'protocol' and the inner voice even related to each other?

He knew that he would not get any answers just by thinking, so...

As quick as lightning, Kokichi jumped down from Gonta's back and stealthily circled to Kiibo's front without him noticing, which was more than possible considering how lost Kiibo was in his thoughts and muttering to himself. Then, in the loudest voice, Kokichi cried out, "Boo!"

Kiibo, startled, looked up and stumbled backward when Kokichi moved towards Kiibo with outstretched hands reaching to him. Before Kiibo could even gain his footing from that stumble, he was lifted upward by someone behind him and turning his head a little, he noticed immediately that it was Gonta.

It all happened in mere moments that it took a bit for Kiibo to process what happened, but once he did and Gonta did not put him back down, he struggled for release in vain. Unsurprisingly, Kiibo glared at Kokichi, who simply smiled at the scene like the evil leader he was who promised chaos.

Inwardly, Kokichi was grateful that Gonta was quick enough on the uptake he was able to follow up Kokichi smoothly with great results before him. As expected of Gonta, maybe. After all, even back at the Insect Meet and Greet, although their relationship was a lot more one-sided with Kokichi simply using Gonta for a one time thing, Gonta always was able to meet expectations and pull things off smoothly enough, even now.

Their relationship has changed a lot ever since, with twists and turns but compared to the time of Insect Meet and Greet, it was a lot better, something Kokichi would be a fool to throw away now and even back during the VR fiasco. As Gonta and Kokichi looked at each other, smiling at job well done, Kokichi was glad for this present where both became such good partners in crime, because it was the same ol' Gonta who was there at times throughout the killing game that finally made it enough to believe such a fact and lead to such a present.

"What is this, Ouma-kun? This better not be like the Insect Meet and Greet!" Kiibo shouted, bring Kokichi back to reality as Kiibo was still struggling against Gonta although at this point, he knew it should be useless. Also, how ironic of Kiibo to point out about the Insect Meet or Greet when he was just thinking about it too.

Before Kokichi could even answer, it was Gonta who spoke up, "No, Kiibo-kun, this isn't the Insect Meet and Greet, but this is for Kiibo-kun's own good."

"My... own good?" Kiibo asked hesitatingly and this was where Kokichi cut in with an innocent smile.

"We are just bringing you back to poor Iruma-chan, that's all. Imagine our surprise when we heard screaming from Iruma-chan's Lab and saw her trussed up on the table, screaming at us to get you before you do something stupid. She also wanted an explanation for why you even trussed her up like that. I get that sometimes Iruma-chan can be overbearing but you didn't have to tie her up like that~"

"I.. I had a valid reason for that," Kiibo stuttered. Kokichi would be surprised if it was someone else for admitting the truth easily, but this was Kiibo, a robot unable to lie. Kokichi just continued smiling.

"Well, then, you have to explain it to Iruma-chan, don't you?" Kokichi asked, "To Iruma-chan's Lab, everyone~"

"W- wait!" Kiibo stopped, this time going limp in Gonta's grip and decided to persuade his captors instead, "Please. I said I have a reason for that. Iruma-san was probing too deeply into my affairs and I just didn't want that. I just panicked, tied her up and ran away. I'm sorry, but I think this time, it's better that I stay away from Iruma-san for a while. I can't meet her, especially now."

Kokichi's eyebrows raised. This was an interesting direction to take. Was this 'Protocol' so bad that Kiibo had to avoid Miu now? If the Protocol was so bad, then why did he have it in the first place?

"Sorry Kii-boy~ I'm an evil supreme leader, like I care about reasons like that! It makes me want to bring you to Iruma-chan even more and see the chaos unfold! Nishishi~" Kokichi said, brushing off Kiibo's words.

"Please, you can't do this!" Kiibo suddenly blurred out, "If I don't stay away from Iruma-chan... she, you all... might die. I... we can't risk that."

"What? What does Kiibo-kun mean?" Gonta asked, confused, "What is Kiibo-kun talking about?"

Kokichi was just as confused as Gonta in this regard. He heard the conversation between Kiibo and Miu, but he didn't think that anything they said could lead up all to their deaths.

While looking at Kiibo for an answer, he remained silent, only to break it when no one could even say anything, "It... it has to do with the motive. I can't say anything more than that."

"Your motive..." Kokichi said, thinking about his own in the process and wondering if those two connected but he could also be grasping at straws at that point so currently dismissed it.

Gonta then spoke up, "Kiibo-kun's motive had something to do with Iruma-san, right? But you never mentioned to Gonta that it would kill us all too."

"I didn't say that because I didn't want to worry you," Kiibo admitted, "But logically, it's a risk that shouldn't be taken. I don't want everyone to be killed because of my motive, and for that reason I want to avoid Iruma-san until I sorted it out in the end. Frankly, it's just complicated."

Kokichi couldn't even agree more. He couldn't even fathom the reasons behind Kiibo's words at all.

But if Kiibo's reason comes from the motive... the Flashback Light...

All the more reason to take Kiibo to Miu!

"Gonta, take him away!" Kokichi shouted, as dramatically as if he was in a movie scene of the villain shooing away the protagonist who intrudes his place, got taken away by the guards and forcefully leaves.

"W- wait! You don't care about what I said of everyone getting killed?! Gonta, you see reason, don't you? Please... believe in me!" Kiibo pleaded.

Only still silence reigned that moment when both Kokichi and Kiibo now waited for Gonta to response. When Gonta did, the answer surprised them both.

"Gonta believe... in Iruma-san. Even if what Kiibo-kun said is true, what if the problem is more than that? And the only one who can check that out is... Iruma-san. Isn't that right, Ouma-kun?"

Gonta looked straight at Kokichi, asking him to follow up that answer... asking him if he did it right, and Kokichi knew right then and there, this indeed...

"Of course, Gonta! So let's not waste anymore time!"

... could become a beautiful partnership, one that Kokichi couldn't have before and could now, by a now mutual, if yet fragile, bond that held a small bright live over the darkness that was this killing game.

***

Gonta had tried to search for Tsumugi with Himiko with little success. Gonta had talked casually to Himiko and was happy that she was still acting cheery. Maybe the motive didn't affect her so much but Gonta couldn't be sure.

However, as much as he wanted to search for Tsumugi, he suddenly got a distress signal from his bug surveillance that Miu was tied up by Kiibo while the robot himself was on the run.

Because of Miu's situation, he decided to untie her first and get the details before going to Kiibo.

He was inside the Academy at the time, telling Himiko at that time he remembered something and cancelled the search while he made his way to Miu's Lab.

So it was quite a surprise to run into Kokichi and Kaito. Obviously, he did whatever he thought right back then, knocking Kaito out and hearing out Kokichi.

Of course, he was still sorry about knocking out Kaito, which was the third time he did it on anyone in this killing game. And yes, he could have done anything else at that stage, but Gonta's good sense was overruled with panic and worry over Kokichi in that short moment of confusion where the first thing in mind was to protect his friends. Even if you have to knock someone out so they can't 'hurt' anyone.

Following the course of events as you have it, Gonta followed Kokichi and redirected his priorities to capturing Kiibo after hearing Kokichi's concise explanation that rang true after confirming with his bugs surveilance. He was glad of Kokichi's validity and that Gonta did not have to doubt him.

Blind faith was simply a thing of the past. If he had bother to press more than completely believing, the Insect Meet and Greet and the VR fiasco probably will never happen. So it was necessary for Gonta to test Kokichi like this, if only to make sure nothing possibly underhanded was going on. Gonta had promised right after the VR fiasco that he will watch over Miu and Kokichi and make sure they do not do anything like what caused the VR fiasco to happen. Although Gonta believed 'innocent until guilty', there was still the
possibility that people could be 'guilty' existed and he had adopted a kind of vigilance for it.

This same vigilance was what helped Gonta had clearer judgment throughout and see through everything until present time, where they, Gonta, Kokichi, Kiibo and Miu, were all now in the Ultimate Inventor's Lab.

Kokichi helped untie Miu who was haphazardly halfway untying herself while Gonta would later tie Kiibo up on the same table out of a safety precaution that both Miu and Kokichi insisted and Gonta relented in the end despite Kiibo's protests. Even if this does hurt his conscience, the fact Kiibo proclaimed that there was a possibility that he might 'kill them all because of his motive'... well, who would risk that?

"Gonta, why are you doing this to me?!" Kiibo asked as he struggled against Gonta's grip whilst being tied against the table.

Gonta remained silent, unsure what to say and never getting the chance before Miu butted in, "Who cares why he's doing this? Now tell me why did you have to tie me up like that and run away?! If you were going to do bondage on me, at least don't leave it half-heartedly! The least you could do was give me a good experience!"

"Uhh... Iruma-san, what are you talking about?" Gonta asked.

"Iruma-chan, did Kii-boy somehow tied you so tight that the blood didn't even bother to flow in your brain? Will you get straight to the main point for all of us not in the know?" Kokichi asked.

"Sheesh, fine, you shota," Miu huffed, "It must be quite a surprise to see me tied up without any warning. As much as I wish I could say it was a normal part of our maintenance sessions, unfortunately it isn't."

"Wouldn't it be more worrying if tying someone up was a normal part of maintenance sessions?" Kiibo asked.

"We getting off-topic. What happened, Iruma-san?" Gonta asked, deciding to bring this conversation back on track. There were some questions he wanted answers when he noticed the anomaly between Miu and Kokichi's conversation but Gonta knew that can wait, when Kiibo was not with them.

Gonta knew in such sudden events like this, with limited knowledge of what the heck is going on, it's best to get an explanation from the beginning and fill the gap afterwards. Although both Gonta and Kokichi had a general idea, it was better to hear it from the source herself, Miu.

It all began with Miu trying to find out more about the glitch, concluding it must be from the inner voice and then Kiibo going ballistic when Miu insisted for its removal.

"I'm sorry, Iruma-san," Kiibo said when Miu finished her story, "But I had my reasons. I'm sorry, but I can't tell you."

"Huh... reasons that because if Iruma-chan probes into you, hmm... it would somehow activate this Protocol that would kill us which is what the Flashback Light showed you the consequences of. Also, your next line will be: How did you know?"

"How did you know?" Kiibo asked at the same time as Kokichi, which surprised everyone in the vicinity except Kokichi.

"And the answer, of course..." Kokichi continued, "... is elementary, dear Kii-boy. Combining Iruma-chan's statement with what you have told me and Gonta when we captured you, the solution is quite a simple one."

Kokichi proceeded to inform Miu of what Kiibo had said, for her to be shocked enough that her jaw dropped, for Kiibo to look sadly at Miu and for Gonta to be confused. Kokichi noticed this.

"Oi... why do you looked confused, Gonta?" Kokichi asked.

"Oh, just that Ouma-kun spoke funny that it confused Gonta. When Ouma-kun was explaining to everyone just now," Gonta said.

"Whaaaat?" Kokichi drawled, "This is still a free country. I can speak however I want or I'm moving to Russia. I just wanted to talk like a Brit detective to make the deductions seem authentic. After all, I'm one for the dramatics~"

"Who cares about that now? Can we all go back to the 'kill us all' part? What do you mean, Kiibs will kill us all?! What is this genocide?! Why?!" Miu directed the last part to Kiibo, who grimaced.

"You don't need to know. You know too much already," Kiibo said.

"More like I don't know enough," Miu rebutted, "Why didn't you tell me? I could have helped you!"

"Because that's exactly what I was worried about," Kiibo sighed, knowing the jig was up, "Because helping would lead to tampering Protocol, and tampering meant you might accidentally activate Protocol. The possibility is low but still there."

"Geh... to know that you think so low of me," Miu said, a weird heartbroken expression on her face.

"Umm..." Gonta spoke up when a thought crossed his mind, "But something confuse Gonta."

"Huh? What's that, Gonta? Don't just leave us hanging," Kokichi said.

"Kiibo-kun," Gonta addressed to Kiibo, "You said you didn't want Iruma-san to tamper you, right?"

"Yes, what's your point?" Kiibo asked.

"Gonta's point is that Kiibo-kun glitched and had to go to Iruma-san to fix this. Gonta don't know how Iruma-san would fix Kiibo-kun, but wouldn't that count as tampering?"

"Correct," Kokichi piped up, his face showing he already realised this a long time ago and just let Gonta do the talking, "Although there is a difference between fixing and tampering, I'm sure that because Iruma-chan had to find the source of the glitch, she had to examine every inch of Kii-boy, and examining every inch meant having every possibility of activating Protocol."

"It would be dangerous altogether to go to Iruma-chan in the first place, but yet he did, which is why it makes no sense. Can you explain that, dear Kii-boy? It's time to stop beating around the bush before we make dire assumptions of our own."

"Is Ouma-kun still talking like Brit detective? For what?" Gonta asked, tilting his head at Kokichi. In response, Kokichi just spread his arms wide in joy and responded:

"Oh, let me have this, Watson. I might not be an Ultimate Detective like Saihara-chan but I want to relish playing this side of the field once in a while."

"Huh, Gonta not Watson. Gonta is Gonta," Gonta said.

"OK, enough fooling around just to keep this going longer than it has to be," Miu said, "But there is something that both of you are missing."

"Oya, can you tell us, dear Poirot?" Kokichi asked.

"But Iruma-san is not Poirot," Gonta said, wondering why Kokichi was messing around, but then again, this is Kokichi they were talking about it. Miu, for her part, looked irritated but dismissed it in favour of continuing what she had to said.

"The truth is that I do not check every inch of Kiibs. Up until now, I have only been doing maintenance and upgrades on Kiibs mechanical parts, but not the AI itself. I had assumed that the source of the glitch would be from any mechanical parts of his body and worked with that assumption. It was only after I decided that the source of the glitch would be his inner voice, what could only be a program of his AI, was when Kiibo started panicking... and the Protocol started revealing itself. So everything was OK until I decided to do something about your AI, when I showed the Kiibs Analyzer for that purpose to know more and you didn't want me to. Am I right?" She directed this part to Kiibo.

"... Yes," Kiibo said, confirming everything. Gonta couldn't really make much sense of the technical jargon of robotics, a study he failed to grasp just like anything technology related since he can only understand the very basics and nothing else.

Gonta only got the part about Kiibo not wanting Miu to do anything to his AI, which is similar to the brain if he remembered right about what Kiibo told him when they first introduced themselves and Gonta had lacking knowledge about the workings of a robot. Now...

"So, what are we going to do now? Kiibo-kun had glitched, and then now there is this Protocol too... Is Kiibo-kun really OK? Shouldn't something be done about this...?" Gonta asked.

"Damn right something will be done!" Miu declared, narrowing her eyes at Kiibo, "With my pride as the Ultimate Inventor at stake, I will make sure that Kiibs will be good as new once I'm done with him, without the glitching or Protocol. And then I want you to be down on your fucking knees after that for ever doubting this great gorgeous inventor, Iruma Miu!"

"But, Iruma-san!" Kiibo protested, "Are you really going to risk activating Protocol and killing us all after everything I just said. Is this really worth it? Can you be so sure that you are even able to pull this off? Because if you don't... everyone... I don't want..."

"Kiibo-kun," Gonta spoke up, having something he wanted to say after hearing Kiibo's protest and felt something resound inside him at those words, "Why are you so afraid?"

"Who wouldn't be?" Kiibo replied, "Up until the motive, I never knew... to think I was a ticking time-bomb. And that I even did all those maintenance sessions with Iruma-san without a care, but at least nothing happened and I thought I was safe. Now something did happen, Protocol might activate, and I don't want to have anyone's blood on my hands, after everything we have been through. Wouldn't you be scared if something like that were to happen to you?"

"Yes... Gonta would. But then, Iruma-san offered a way to avoid it all. Iruma-san said she can remove your Protocol and avoid any killing  in the first place. Why would you be so worried about Iruma-san fixing you so you would never have Protocol in the first place?" Gonta asked.

"But the possibility..." Kiibo said, to be cut off by Kokichi soon after, with his arms crossed and purple eyes boring into the electric blue ones.

"What makes you think that even without Iruma-chan doing anything that the Protocol wouldn't activate on its own?"

"What?" Kiibo asked, his eyes blown wide open.

"After all, was it truly a coincidence that some kind of glitch happened only after the motive when it had never even happened in this entire killing game? Unless..." Kokichi said, looking at  Kiibo, waiting for something.

"No, this is the first time," Kiibo said, understanding what Kokichi wanted.

"Then, whose to say that the glitching might not be in anyway related to your Protocol, which might have started coming out, maybe not because of Iruma-chan's insistence about your inner voice, but because the glitch is a precedence to the start of Protocol?" Kokichi asked.

"But this is all conjecture! Otherwise..." Kiibo said, unable to continue the rest of the sentence. Negatively, Gonta knew, Kiibo wanted to continue it with 'We are all doomed from the start.' However Gonta finished Kiibo's sentence with a more positive spin to it.

"The only option left is for Kiibo-kun to rely on Iruma-san so that nothing will happen in the first place."

"What?" Kiibo asked, looking towards Gonta. Gonta took care of the words he would say next to Kiibo, considering that truthfully when this sudden event happened, his mind was still catching up with the details and processing it the best it could, but within his convictions and conclusions, he knew what must be done... and what must be said.

"Is it so scary to take your chances with Iruma-san, Kiibo-kun? Gonta probably don't know much about relationship between Kiibo-kun and Iruma-san, but Kiibo-kun trusted Iruma-san enough for maintenance sessions so why can't Kiibo-kun trust enough for this?"

"I..." Kiibo hesitated, unsure what to say or unable to say anything. Gonta pressed on.

"Gonta's not going to say you should completely believe in Iruma-san, but why couldn't you believe in Iruma-san's skills? Because Iruma-san is the Ultimste Inventor and Gonta had seen her inventions even if he didn't know much, but Kiibo should know better. Is there any reason to doubt Iruma-san's skills? Do you really think she would activate the Protocol accidentally when she is capable enough to not do that?"

Gonta's views have changed tremendously throughout this killing game, and it is now hard to believe in anyone as easily as in the past, but at the same time, Gonta couldn't even fathom doubting every little thing either because no one could live like that. The proof of that was the VR fiasco.

When Miu doubted everyone and thought killing was the only option. When Kokichi doubted everyone and couldn't even talk about seeing the end of the world, leading to the VR fiasco when he found out Miu set her sights on him to kill...

Because they didn't believe in anything, it led to that very moment, only stopped by Miu's quick thinking with the phone.

For Gonta, he could no longer believed completely but he could believe what he saw, what he experienced. He could believe in Miu and Kokichi's skills that helped them uncover many things from the killing game. He could believe Miu and Kokichi's determination to end the killing game, to prevent murders... which was why Gonta could follow along with their schemes and help in the best way possible.

Sure, secrets were kept, but in the end, no one can truly know a person. They can only judge and believe in what they see and experience, which is what Gonta had done. Which is what he was asking Kiibo to do.

Because Gonta thought no one could truly live without believing in something.

"So Kiibo-kun," Gonta finally said when the silence reigned long enough, "Can you believe in Iruma-san's skills enough to handle this? After everything you two probably went through together? Can you find one reason to doubt everything you have gone through together? Will you let Iruma-san remove the Protocol and save us all?"

"What is this MVP moment?" Kokichi muttered, which was ignored in favour of hearing Kiibo's answer.

"I..." Kiibo said, thinking it all through and remembering everything throughout the killing game before he finally gave his answer, "I will believe in Iruma-san. I cannot see any reason to doubt her skills at all. Her maintenance is usually flawless, so... so, I will do it."

Gonta finally got through to Kiibo, which meant...

"Haha!" Miu laughed in victory, "I knew you would finally come 'round but I still expect you to be down on your knees for doubting me, Kiibs. But for now... let's get this show on the road! Here's what needs to be done..."

Chapter Text

"Very carefully... and then..." Miu said to herself.

She could feel herself sweating... with her hands moving in deadly precision. She had to concentrate really hard. Her pride was on the line here after all. She would-

Tick, tick, bzzt...

"No..." Miu moaned, "And so close! I just-"

"Iruma-chan..." Kokichi interrupted her moaning.

"Yes, I know. I know!" Miu spluttered, and proceeded to give him a 100 Monocoins for failing the bet that she could lockpick faster than Kokichi with her inventions. Gonta opened the doors of the Ultimate Inventor's Lab as they let themselves in.

"Is that really necessary?" Gonta asked.

"She needed to be taken down a notch or ten," Kokichi said.

"I couldn't let him insult my inventing skills, especially after what I pulled off with Kiibs. My pride was on the line!" Miu exclaimed.

"And why did you have to bet on this?" Gonta asked.

"What's a little bet to spice things up? I finally have enough for the Electric Tempest," Kokichi said, his hands rubbing in anticipation for his prize.

"Tch, and I was so close to having enough for the Work Chair Of Doom..." Miu said bitterly.

Gonta now looked at both of them with his eyes void of any discernible expression before he shook his head and simply said nothing. Anyone who didn't know the slightest thing about them would think they would be seeing a father being more or less fed up with the antics of his two kids arguing over something childish. Knowing the three as they are, it's just a very weird comparison.

For the record, this all happened because of Kokichi, definitely not Miu. It all began with Kiibo's operation.

"You want to put me in Sleep Mode?" Kiibo asked.

"Yes, I think it would be the safest option, if you worry so much about that Protocol of yours. Your functions would be temporarily shut down so if Protocol was accidentally activated, a scenario that could possibly never happen but only if, you would need time to reboot your functions, enough time for the rest of us to defend ourselves for whatever might come," Miu said.

"Iruma-san, I don't think-" Kiibo started but Miu fiercely interrupted him.

"What? This Ultimate Inventor has a stronghold of inventions that could defend a solid fortress, Kiibs. You think I don't make some stuff for my own self-defense?! And I have backup!"

Kiibo looked at both Gonta and Kokichi who were still sticking around. While Gonta could be counted as back-up, Kokichi was a stretch.

"I know what those eyes are for. I'm perfectly capable back-up. Look at my biceps~" Kokichi said, flexing his non-existent biceps.

"Oh yeah, do I need a microscope?" Miu heckled, always looking for ways to one up Kokichi considering he insults her too often and needs a taste of his own medicine.

"Oh sure, you need more than that to see anything past those big lumps of fats of yours."

"Ha, you are just jealous that you would never to get the feel of my boo-"

"Ahem," Kiibo said, stopping this bickering from actually going any further than PG-13, "I get your reasoning, Iruma-san. It's not like I can back out now. Please... succeed."

"Of course, and you will be on your fucking knees when I do."

Despite Kiibo's fears, it was actually simpler than one would think. Skipping the long and boring procedure filled only with the occasional curses, insults and quips, it all boiled down to the Kiibs Analyzer, that functions very well thank you very much, and Gonta's account as one of the witnesses to Kiibo's glitch. The symptoms of buzzing, flashing electric blue eyes and unresponsiveness. No wonder they said it was a glitch, an appropriate term for such a problem.

Miu even thought it was the common kind of symptoms and had no problems even fixing it up once she got access to Kiibo's AI programs. Glitches of that kind tend to mean a kind of malfunction of software than anything wrong with hardware. Once solving the glitch, it led to Protocol which was the cause of the glitch instead of the inner voice which proved Miu's conclusions wrong.

However, once she disabled Protocol, easily mind you, she was pretty tempted to remove the inner voice along the way and lie to Kiibo that it was the cause of the glitch. Gonta, the man of integrity, was the one to stop her.

"Wait, Iruma-san," Gonta had said, stopping her operation, "Isn't Kiibo-kun fine already? Why keep operating on Kiibo-kun? Gonta don't think you should do anything more without his consent."

Miu groaned. She should not have narrated the operation in a manner of boast towards Kokichi and Gonta if this was going to happen. Then again, it might not matter as Kokichi might get the information out of Miu out of his pesky, pestering self peppering her a bunch of questions along the way when her narration was not enough. That same person was continuing being his pesky self, in a good way for Miu this time.

"Oh, come on, Gonta," Kokichi had piped up, "Of course, it's fine for Iruma-chan to continue on. What if she missed something along the way that would harm Kii-boy later? Better tie the loose ends now than later, but if you're so worried, why not let her check out and make sure there is a problem to begin with?"

And there was a problem, alright. Something they didn't see coming...

"Wh- what in... wait, what the hell are you doing?!" Miu shouted surprised, and then in anger to Kokichi. When Miu had delved deep enough into Kiibo's inner voice, something shocking appeared... which Kokichi backtracked and shut down despite the risks to Kiibo to everyone's surprise.

"We shouldn't let them know," Kokichi said in a solemn tone, "We found our audience."

"Audience... ah," Gonta said in realization when he understood all this time. Miu understood too.

"Motherfucking, all this time... I knew it! I will-" Miu was interrupted of her tirade by Kokichi with one simple word:

"No."

"No?! Why the fuck no?! After everything-"

"Do you want to expose everything we are doing to them, and put us in a hotter seat than we are already put on now? You don't think they would be a little more suspicious if you removed the inner voice. I thought you knew better after the whole Motherkuma thing."

"Well... I... but, are we going to let-"

"Of course not. We are not going to take this lying down either. Here is what we have to do..."

All said and done, everything afterwards was still smooth sailing. She fixed everything, which was informed to Kiibo and backed up by the others. Miu got Kiibo kneeling before her, promising to never doubt her which was a great ego boost. Then, Kokichi decided to ruin it by saying not to get so high over something so small and thus, their bet. In other words, it just happened... yeah, that's it. She definitely...

"Now, can we finally talk about Kiibo-kun's inner voice?" Gonta asked.

... did not want to avoid that with her head in such a mess, where many paranoid thoughts and chaotic ideas came forth undoubtedly leading to many terrible consequences. The bet actually calmed her mind and she could look at the situation in a better light... she think.

"Fine... 'tis time for the inevitable," Kokichi groaned, "So what do you want to say? 'I can't believe Kii-boy's a traitor!', 'We were being watched by that many people like this is a great TV show?!', 'Why is Kii-boy the protagonist and not me?!'"

"Gonta don't think anyone think the third one," Gonta pointed out.

"Well, I thought about it," Kokichi argued, "Because who wouldn't want to be the all great strong plot armored protagonist! And I was so sure that it was Saihara-chan when it was Kii-boy! ... Maybe it was the ahoge. After all, anyone could feel that protagonist vibe just after Saihara-chan removed his hat and showed it off. But Kii-boy had it the whole time, so that means... wait, there is Akamatsu-chan wh-"

"What are you even talking about?! Who cares who is the protagonist of whatever?! Can we get back to the 'I can't believe Kiibs is a traitor!' and 'We were being watched by that many people like this is a great TV show?!' bit?!" Miu cut Kokichi off brutally, feeling it a waste of time prolonging the inevitable when they got the ball rolling.

The inevitable of what Kiibo is... the consequences, what they could do and couldn't do.

"But knowing who the protagonist is in this killing game is important!" Kokichi cried out, "Do you know that the protagonist party usually manages to survive in the end due to plot armor in RPG games? Don't you think we need some plot armors ourselves, if we only find the protagonist..."

"But this is not an RPG game. Uh... what is an RPG game?" Gonta asked, which caused Kokichi to give the most shocked expression in history of Kokichi's face expressions.

"You don't know RPG?! How could you, it's-"

"Stop, stop!" Miu suddenly put the breaks in this meaningless conversation, "Why have we been doing and trying to talk nonsense anyway? We don't even have the luxury to waste any time, alright?!"

"Well, if you didn't accept my bet, maybe we could have spent our time discussing important things from the beginning?" Kokichi pointed out.

"And that wouldn't have happened if you didn't even make that bet in the first place," Miu fired back.

"Then, it both your fault," Gonta said, shocking both Miu and Kokichi. Sure, Gonta had changed some the past few days, but did... did he just slay? What has the world been coming to?

"But that doesn't matter," Gonta said with some kind of tone that kind of reminds Miu of a male Kirumi, like some dad-energy. Why does he even have dad-energy, or has it simply been inside him all this time?

"If no one want to say it, then Gonta say it. What we know from Kiibo-kun's inner voice... as Ouma-kun said, except third one... Kiibo-kun may be traitor and that we certainly being watched by many people. Why would anyone..."

Gonta choked at those words. Miu couldn't blame him. It was still a shock. She wished that it wasn't true. She knew there were sickos, considering the whole Danganronpa 53 but that many? And with Kiibo at the crux of it all, under her nose, all this time? When she thought of Kiibo as an interesting robot, felt safe under his genial personality and the laws he was bound to and struck a bond... It was simply a cruel reality.

She will never forget those many faces, blurred. Their many voices coming together as one... which was what Kiibo's inner voice really was, before Kokichi quickly shut it down before they could even see anything else. All they can do at that point was plant something 'unsuspicious' inside Kiibo that can be activated only by a single remote when absolutely necessary... when there's no turning back.

It was, of course, one of Miu's inventions made from Kokichi's blueprints with this certain one listed as 'URGENT!!' underlined and written in reddish purple crayon for effect. It made Miu wonder at the time whether Kokichi's insight was so great to foresee this or his robophobia was that strong to label Kiibo in need of such an invention. In any case...

"Hmm, Iruma-san?" Kiibo had asked once he already finished kneeling before her in absolute gratitude after being proved wrong which Miu gloriously took that moment up, feeling like an absolute queen.

"What is it, Kiibs?" Miu asked.

"Did you do anything to my inner voice?" Kiibo asked, his eyes narrowed.

"Whaa- what makes you think that?" Miu asked, sweating bullets, "Ar- are you really accusing me of something like that when I have done everything in my power to restore you back to normal? Do- do you really have so little faith in this gorgeous girl genius, in the world?!"

"I do not comprehend the relevance between having little faith between you and the world," Kiibo sighed, "It's just that, before all this, you were very insistent of removing my inner voice. The fact that you didn't just struck me as suspicious compared if you actually did something."

"Of- of course, I didn't do anything," Miu denied vehemently, "I respect you and your rights, Kiibs. Of course, I couldn't do anything without any consent from you. If I could have just convinced you before..."

"Oh, I see," Kiibo smiled, relaxing, "I guess my inner voice had become too paranoid after everything that had happened. But I should have known better than that. Thanks for everything, Iruma-san. It's like a huge burden has been lifted off me."

At least, Kiibo didn't question anything further but as far as Miu was concerned, it didn't change the situation before them.

"Why else?" Kokichi said in a blank face as he uttered those words, "Other than they just can."

Those words brought utter silence among them, only absorbing those words. Miu knew they were in a shitty situation, but why does it always get shittier when she thought it couldn't get worse?

"What... are you planning with Kiibs?" Miu asked, surprised at how calm her voice became despite a certain dread already welling up in her. Was she already used to such situations that she could react like this? She didn't really know...

It could be barely believed that it was already evening, and after this day... simply two days left. Too many things have happened, once again, but Kiibo now tops it all... and as much as Miu was reluctant, what a threat he could be... That inner voice does not lie. And with what she had experienced... of course, they have to...

"Hmm... that depends on Kii-boy, does it not? What we did was simply... a fail-safe, one we can only use, if and only if, he proves an actual threat. Otherwise, why worry?" Kokichi said nonchalantly. That statement flabbergasted Miu, and she was quick to retort.

"But that's only a fail-safe! Kiibs' situation is bigger than any of us. A fail-safe has no chance of solving every problem, and what will happen if we did nothing? Against that?"

"We can't do nothing, right?" Gonta asked, "Kiibo-kun's situation is... serious. Gonta... very worried about him and all of us because of this."

Isn't that right? Absolutely yes, so why does Kokichi want to leave it at that? Didn't he, of all people, know of the complications set by their discovery?

"Course we are not going to do nothing," Kokichi said, "But now? Do you really think this is the right time and place? Nah... let's just procrastinate until last minute and do something more fun!"

"Why are you treating this like it's homework you can't bother to do and just half-assed it or copy off someone else?" Miu asked.

"Please take this seriously, Ouma-kun," Gonta said.

"I am taking this seriously!" Kokichi protested, "It's you guys who aren't. You aren't seeing the big picture with Kii-boy this and Kii-boy that. What about the others?"

"Others?" Gonta asked.

"Well, think about it. You guys are only focusing on Kii-boy but are going nowhere, because other than the fail-safe, there is nothing we can do now. But if we can't do that now, are we only just going to focus on that until the time comes to act? What about the others in this killing game? You think they are going to twiddle their thumbs, not thinking about murder that our oh so gracious motive provided for us? Do you want to face those consequences? And did you even forget our original purpose in the first place?"

Miu and Gonta were shocked to silence. He had a point. One of the things they planned to do as KGB was monitor the others in light of possible murder plans brought forth from the motive, along with their original purpose... escaping the killing game together. Focusing only on Kiibo might be detrimental to that, if they put their on-going plans on-hold subconsciously for his sake.

"But... Kiibs..." Miu objected to be cut down by Kokichi.

"I didn't say anything about forgetting all about Kii-boy. I am not so heartless. I'm just saying you should know where to prioritize... or else you might miss something when it's too late to cry over spilt milk."

"... Stop bringing up good points, Ouma," Miu just said, but she knew where he was coming from. Kiibo... she didn't know where this would go, but she had to look at the big picture... and prioritize.

"So are we ready to start our long overdue meeting?" Kokichi asked with a smile.

Miu would never stop thinking of what she could do for Kiibo, but she mustn't forget about the others. Even though she still disagreed with Kokichi's assessment with the situation, she knew that he was not wrong either. After all, time was running out for them all, something that mustn't be forgotten. The most important thing... was for all of them to escape together alive. If only focusing on Kiibo made her forget such a thing, even for a moment... She just had to give in... for now, her compromise.

"Yeah. Let's get started," Miu said. And they finally started a long conversation of their previous actions about machines, Monokuma, the ADR, the killing game and the students in it and... the long and short consequences of it all they need to be prepared for.

***

Kokichi was a believer of flat earth.

OK, that was very out of left field. Back to the matter at hand.

Kaito was a believer of flat earth.

Fine... fine, he would stop lying and get back to the real truth. Or was he telling the truth, or just a lie? Or was this all a code?

"Since when did we even have such a freaking code?!" Miu asked over Kokichi's earpiece. The lines above were part of a spy-like conversation between the KGB trio as Kokichi underwent an important spy-like mission.

About... a few hours ago, give or take, they had a plentiful information exchange, although everyone there knew that they were all withholding certain bouts of information to themselves, such as the videos for Kokichi. He was still hesitating whether to show it to them because deep down, he still wanted to keep it as his own trump card if any harm goes against the KGB. That was simply him being cautious, as well as Miu and Gonta who have undoubtedly hidden their own things for their own agendas as a master liar could easily tell.

Kokichi did not mind, or at least... until it gets in the way of his own plans. What kind of hypocrite would he be to out Miu and Gonta for their secrets when he had some of his own? He was a liar, but no hypocrite... or is that a lie?

Right now, they all went their separate ways in their own different operations, awaiting cooperation if necessary and to do so, needed to communicate but Miu was at a loss of why Kokichi decided to even speak in code at the moment, so he had to take the painstaking job of explaining it to her.

"Since we need it so people have no idea what I'm talking about," Kokichi said.

"But wouldn't people look at Ouma-kun funny if you talk nonsense?" Gonta asked, through the same earpiece. Both Gonta and Miu were keeping tabs with Kokichi over their three-way earpiece communication. Kokichi meant to give the earpiece to Gonta in the first place but Gonta himself sped that up when he asked about the anomaly between Miu and Kokichi, the fact that Kokichi knew Miu was tied up before Kiibo's capture when timeframe and circumstances wise, he could not be in person to witness that. And the fact that Miu played along like she and Kokichi were in it together...

By then, Kokichi and Miu were not altogether surprised by Gonta's bouts of cleverness but they still marveled at it as Kokichi simply gave the earpiece and explanation. Back to the present...

"Don't worry about that Gonta," Miu said, "That clown is already an entire circus so no one would even think twice of him speaking any kind of nonsense."

"Nishishi, and everyone's already used to the mad scientist Iruma-chan to even look you funny so come on, let's just talk in code already. Don't you guys have any sense of adventure and imagination?"

"Who are you calling mad scientist? It's genius scientist for you, and everyone else in this damn world. Get your labels right, you closeted-"

"Ouma-kun, is there anything wrong with Momota-kun?" Gonta asked, cutting Miu and Kokichi's incoming bickering once again.

"No, he's fine now," Kokichi said, reverting back easily to the cool spy he was. He could be the clown at one moment and a spy at the next. It's one of his strong points.

Currently, for anyone who's wondering, Kokichi was actually tailing Himiko but it was just a surprise when the little mage went outside and had been spying on the trio hero squad doing push ups (or more like letting Maki and Shuichi do the push-ups while he talk and motivated them).

If that was the case, you might also wonder why Gonta would be inquiring about Kaito, well, that was because that weak ass astronaut actually did a few push ups out of Maki and Shuichi's persistence for being the only one who wasn't really trying before he actually wheezed, coughed out blood and collapsed. 

Kokichi actually blurted that out for Miu and Gonta to hear in their three-way communication. Gonta, obviously concerned, had to ask about Kaito's health and Kokichi, your everyday jokester, decided to make light of the situation for a bit before giving a serious answer.

Yes, Kaito was 'fine'. He said it was a coughing spell, but no coughing spell ever spilt blood. Yet, as far as Kokichi could see, Kaito still waved it off, jumping back to his feet quite easily that although Maki and Shuichi were concerned, they let it go due to Kaito's sheer stubbornness.

As for Himiko, the person of interest he was tailing, he could vaguely see her knuckles tightening and although he couldn't see her expression, he thought it might be an expression of determination.

'Who might she be targeting?' Kokichi wondered. It was the right thing for him to tail Himiko when only she, other than the KGB trio and the hero squad, was up. For reasons, but not unanticipated nor unexpected.

After all, during that long-winded discussion only quipped with a few funny remarks to ease the tension every now and then, they made tailing others their next priority to prevent any murders and find out the mastermind's next move.

Himiko was the top of the list of the murder watch, with what Miu revealed about rope, chloroform and cryptic words. Gonta, who had spent some time with Himiko, couldn't note anything out of the ordinary but appearances can be deceiving. Similar to Maki's case, it was time for murder prevention watch and send in someone by unanimous vote.

Which resulted in this arrangement. Kokichi can match Himiko for size, Miu wanted a way to have vengeance towards Tsumugi due to pent-up rage and stress which went to breaking point when she found out Kiibo's involvement with the whole mess and finally Gonta was tailing Kiibo as the one physically able enough to have better chances against the robot. There was concern about the hero squad, which shouldn't be left unchecked because Miu told Kokichi and Gonta her suspicions about Shuichi when she spent some time with him and put a tracker, but still...

Kokichi decided to use Maki to keep an eye on both Kaito and Shuichi. After her first murder attempt, it was less likely she would try to pull that stunt again and she won't allow either Kaito or Shuichi to repeat her mistakes. All Kokichi had to do before tailing Himiko was to meet up with Maki and suggest a few somethings before leaving on his lonesome. The result was Maki sticking around Shuichi and Kaito as long as she could, keeping an eye on them and finding any suspicious movements that would trigger her retaliation against them.

Both Tsumugi and Kiibo were currently asleep much to Miu's rage that she couldn't find her excuse to mess with the cosplayer and Gonta's relief that the robot won't be up to anything for the night. It was a good thing something happened with Himiko, if only because it stops Miu from ranting about a certain plain Jane bitch and where her... obviously, Kokichi stopped her from saying anything too dirty when she wasn't in the frame of mind to watch her words, even with Gonta around.

Kokichi could never imagine a world where Gonta learned a little too much from Miu. No... frankly, that will never exist as long as the universe is intact and it's laws are upheld. But there was so much he could interrupt through a rage filled tirade.

Now, it's his turn to shine, although he's been in the spotlight as many roles during the entirety of the story. The rope and chloroform could easily be hidden on Himiko's person. Himiko... probably planning a murder? On at least one of the hero squad? Maki, Shuichi or Kaito?

Following the theory of one-on-one motives where no one targets anyone else twice... as far as they know because, minus the mastermind, the numbers are even with a good possibility everyone having different targets, it was down to Shuichi or Kaito (Maki is ruled out because Gonta's motive led to Maki) and there was no way to know but through Himiko herself with her actions.

Was he jumping to conclusions that the only reason that Himiko was prowling at night with suspicious determined gestures as she spied on the hero squad as a certainty that premediated murder might happen?

Of course not! And it was about to be proven true as the hero squad finally dispersed for the night and went to their separate rooms. Following Himiko silently, he was there to witness the moment when Himiko went to knock on Kaito's door after a few moments the occupant went in there himself.

Kokichi yawned a little as he continued watching the course of actions and contemplating how to intervene. All it takes is the perfect timing and an equally perfect excuse. It's not surprising that murder will go down in this killing game, although it's still a shame.

"Yumeno," Kaito asked once he opened the door to see the young mage, "What are you doing here?"

"There is something that I need to ask you, Momota," Himiko drawled, "Can I come inside?"

"Couldn't this wait until morning? Why are you up so late at night?" Kaito asked, confused like he wasn't up late at night himself.

"Nyeh, it's really important. It's just you're the only person who I could ask..." Himiko said, gesturing something that Kokichi couldn't see but it was visible for Kaito and understood as he reacted with a pale face and slight sweat on his face.

"How..." Kaito said, but Himiko was nonplussed as if she expected it.

"So you are-" Himiko said, only to be interrupted by Kaito.

"Not here, you are right... this should be taken inside," Kaito said, as he ushered Himiko inside and with a click of the lock, they were shut inside the room together. What a terrible idea.

Oh, woe was Kokichi... how was he able to know what those two were up to beyond a close door. He didn't even have the powers to see or hear anything over any barriers... psyche, yes he did. Kokichi just had such superpowers, after all, because that's what makes him a supreme leader.

Of course, that was a lie~ He just had an invention ready to surpass barriers of sight and hearing from the inventor extraordinaire Miu Iruma (not that he will ever tell her that anywhere near her). It was an invention she made in the early days... for about the same reason she would create a drone a long time ago.

Now he was using this invention which Miu randomly named 'Spi' which maybe was misspelled for 'spy' onto the door and with the guarantee that anyone could be able to see and hear anything once he put this baby into action. Sounds perfect for a peeping Tom but this time, it's used for nobler reasons as he finally inserted the invention...

"... didn't tell us?" Kokichi now heard Himiko ask and Kaito had looked away from Himiko, seeming to struggle with things to say to her after what sounded like a pointed question.

"I didn't want anyone to worry..." Kaito mumbled, somehow unable to look Himiko in the eye. Whatever she said to him must really hit the astronaut hard.

"But Momota, everyone would have found out eventually. It's getting wor-" Himiko started, only to be interrupted by Kaito.

"No, no way," Kaito asserted, "It's fine... everything is fine. There's so much that... that has to be done! So, please keep it a secret. I don't want everyone else to worry and put everything on hold because of  it. So, if you just keep it a secret-"

"And what if it's actually a threat? Do you think I won't do something about it?" Himiko asked, an air of determination wrapping around her small body for Kaito, and unknown to them, Kokichi to behold. Whatever they were talking about, there seems to be some threat hanging around them, not that they had enough of that already...

"A threat? I... it..." Kaito fumbled for words once again, surprised by Himiko's bold statement but it does not end there.

"Yes, you're the threat, because of that. And something must be done about it," Himiko said. Kokichi couldn't help but be exasperated by such a statement. Oh, first Kiibo was a threat with Protocol although it's now disabled as far as they know and now Kaito is some kind of  threat too? Isn't this too much, although Himiko's assertion towards Kaito might be false from an exaggerated and fake motive.

Kaito was just far from a threat with his hero sthick and... condition, one that has been seen this night and what Kokichi had known long ago during his late night jaunts and stumbling upon Kaito, unseen, as the astronaut hacked out blood...

As Himiko decided to continue her explanation, it dawned on Kokichi that what they had been referring to all this time was Kaito's condition, the very thing that was a threat because it existed and could actually bring harm to everyone. And the only known way to solve this is...

"What?! Are you crazy, you just straight up told me to kill myself?!" Kaito asked. Yeah, Kokichi agreed. After all, if people died if someone else told them to go die, well... let's just say that Kokichi and Miu would both be dead with the stupidest class  trial to boot during that time.

'So stupid that it's making me angry, but that isn't surprising. After all, I hate murderers, even would-be ones, Yumeno-chan.'

"Nyeh. I thought you would do it if it were to save the others. After all, your illness is not a normal one, remember? One of the reasons for the creation of the Gofer Project was because of the new disease, where they rounded up all Ultimates who they thought were immune and can bring hope for all of the world, but somehow, you... you, Momota, are actually infected with the disease that is contagious... and deadly."

"If someone who was supposed to be immune got infected, who's to say that no one else would get infected and join you in the grea-"

"Don't say it like that," Kaito insisted, interrupting Himiko on the spot, "It still hasn't happened. I'm still alive and I'm kicking. I cannot just kick the bucket while everyone else is trying to survive and find a way out of here! Harumaki, Shuichi, all of you... I just..."

'Was that desperation I hear? Were you always this desperate under that facade of yours, Momota-chan?'

Himiko simply remain silent, now crossing her arms as she appraised Kaito slowly.

"So, please keep this a secret, Yumeno. I don't want Shuichi and Harumaki to worry anymore than they have to. We all have too much on our shoulders and I don't want to add anymore burdens on them, so I will pretend I am fine until the very end."

'And you think that Saihara-chan and Harukawa-chan would like that? Who gave you the right to hide things like that from them when you insist they be open to you? That's why I hate hypocrites.'

"You don't think they will notice soon?" Himiko pointed out.

"... I know I can't hide it forever," Kaito stated, "But at least, I want to try hiding it to the bitter end, or we can escape before my illness takes the turn for the worse."

'Isn't that false hope? Aren't you lying to yourself? Pitiful Momota-chan... you can't even bring yourself to think of the consequences if that failed.'

"... I'm sorry, Momota but I won't be taking that chance," Himiko said, "Well, I knew this would happen, but I thought maybe..."

Himiko didn't finish that sentence but surprised Kaito by jumping on him with no warning whatsoever, able to tackle Kaito down despite her small stature and was already-

"HOLD IT!" Kokichi shouted, having lockpicked the door for this type of emergency while peeping in and chose this very moment as the perfect timing to barge in.

"Wh- what...?" Himiko asked, turning around to see Kokichi pointing at them with a furrowed expression  so unlike his usual expression and a pose like... maybe, a prosecutor about to drop a bomb on unwitting suspects during investigations, with his scarf a similar replacement for that cravat. Kokichi loved using references to shock and confuse his audience despite making fun of Tsumugi for her own references.

"What the hell are you doing here, Ouma?!" Kaito asked, still pinned down by Himiko who didn't move a muscle at Kokichi's unexpected and pretty much dramatic entrance. And now time for the perfect excuse...

"My God," Kokichi said, feigning realistic enough shock before going into the improvised excuse, "We already have Iruma-chan, the Monokubs melodrama was bad enough, but this?! Shame on you all. And for shame as a man Momota-chan that you can be topped by little Yumeno-chan. I understand late night rendezvous as much as the next person but we do have the Love Hotel for a reason, you know?"

"What? Th- this is-" Himiko said, having the sense to blush and fidget at  Kokichi's accusation.

"No... no, it's not... she just..." Kaito spluttered, already started making excuses. Perfect, works every time.

In the moment of embarrassment at Kokichi's obvious lies with half baked and flustered excuses from Himiko and Kaito, Kokichi quickly picked Himiko up, who at least is about the same stature as him and thus was easily carried away from Kaito before he pinned her down.

In a sultry voice, Kokichi said, "You think I will let you cheat on me, Yu~me~no-chan~"

"What? This again?!" Himiko blurted out, further perfecting Kokichi's excuse.

"Again?!" Kaito asked, shocked, with his brain trying to keep up with the events that just happened.

"Oh, don't worry Momota-chan. I haven't forgotten about you either. After all, I love everyone. Love & Peace," Kokichi said, winking and holding up a peace sign while still keeping a hold on Himiko. It was once again an obvious lie, but such a perfect distraction that those two completely forgotten to question Kokichi's coincidental presence here.

Yes... he used the love triangle excuse, a romance drama right before their eyes but... no matter how cliche and cringy it is, it's still effective to go for it. After all, there is a reason why there are romance characters who could be so smart yet so stupid. It has to be hormones and the lack of blood in the brain from all the blushing that causes them to lose sight of the bigger picture. A great diversion tactic, at the expense of being considered a bastard, but he was already one and wasn't above using every petty trick in the dictionary to get the end results. Years of practicing BS served him well.

And yes... he does like to use this tactic all too often. Why do you think he occasionally flirts with others or adding a 'beloved' to their names? He liked weirding people out.

Surely befitting of the clown mask of DICE, when he could choose to be the entire circus if it would benefit him in anyway.

"I knew it! I knew Ouma was a horny bastard! And what right did you even have to say anything against me about it?"

"Ouma-kun, please don't hurt Yumeno-san and Momota-kun's feelings. That not gentlemanly at all."

Silence in the peanut gallery. The only reason that they could even hear this from the earpiece was because he needed them to hear just in case things go sour. Now, ignoring Kaito, Kokichi patted down Himiko, trying to find whatever she had on her as he said, "And now what else are you hiding, huh, Yumeno-chan?"

Himiko flustered but she didn't even have time to protest as Kokichi got what he was looking for, his skills for pat downs rivalling the police. He had tons of practice patting down and being patted down after all. Only to Kaito's surprise, he found...

"A rope and chloroform?" Kaito asked in shock.

"Oh, and what were you going to do with these, hmm? Ooo, how about I use these on you instead?" Kokichi mused, causing Himiko to pale as she could only think the worst consequences but Kokichi inwardly sneered at that...

'As if I would do anything like you were about to do. To go back to being the thing I hated most.'

"That's easy. Tie her up like the bitch she is. You will understand why bondage is still around in these parts."

"What parts? Please don't do anything rash, Ouma-kun."

Who did they think he is? Granted, as the Ultimate Supreme Leader, he had crossed many lines and went to many uncharted territories, but going to Miu-tory? Forget that. He was crass at times, sure, but he will never be Miu.

"In the end..." Kokichi said, rounding up Act 1 of this tragicomedy, "You know what is going to happen, right Yumeno-chan?"

"Wh- what are you going to do to me?" Himiko stuttered.

"Hey, don't you dare do anything to her, Ouma!" Kaito shouted, jumping up to the rescue just like a typical hero.

"Oh, she tried to kill you, and yet you want to save her? How heroic of you, but why do you think she should be saved after all this?" Kokichi asked.

"Wha- what do you mean?" Himiko asked.

Kokichi smiled and said, "After all, didn't you choose to kill Momota in a killing game of all things if not for just playing the game. Even after refusing to submit to the killing game, to live on after everything that happened with Angie-chan and Chabashira-chan, you will throw that away... for what? To die yourself after a class trial or to let everyone else die and living with all that blood stained on your hands? It's only when you play the game that you freely choose to face those consequences, is that not?"

Now Act 2 of this tragicomedy will start. As he carefully eyed Kaito and Himiko's reactions, it was time to know where they stand, and what they would do as he lay down these crossroads and where they walk from there.

'An opportunity. A possibility to find another check to corner the enemy's King in term of chess, when I could use all the pieces available to me or render them useless to the mastermind before even having the opportunity to choose. But that will never change the fact that I will always hate these type of people but let me believe... in you people against this killing game.'

This was Kokichi's compromise when he learned to believe even a little from his complete doubt of others.  Time was running out for all of them. If there were possibilities that the others could help or hinder him, he needed to know as soon as possible, like right now. So he could plan by their possible actions that he could be made more sure after this. If they could help him...

Despite his feelings, Kokichi would always take the logical path with the best opportunities, even when he hated Miu, himself, Maki and now Himiko for all trying to kill, something he hated the most, he still chose to believe in them a bit enough to give an opportunity for a partnership, instead of being on total opposing sides. That's what he was going to do now.

'Do you people have what it takes to end this killing game? Or will you just get in the way? Show me your potential and resolve. Show me you have a chance to take on this killing game when others fail to, even if you almost gave in. Will all the pieces be in place?'

Kokichi smiled despite himself, but for some reasons, these situations are always so fun.

***

"... never do something like that again, OK, Ouma-kun?" Gonta asked. It was after Kokichi successfully foiled Himiko's murder plan towards Kaito.

Gonta, Kokichi and Miu had reconvened inside Kokichi's room for one last meeting before they all go to sleep and await the next day. It was the perfect time to scold Kokichi for his recklessness and express worry over his safety. Unfortunately, his concern blipped right past Kokichi, who looked nonplussed at everything that happened.

"Yes, Daddy," Kokichi said, to which Miu snorted and Gonta frowned.

"Gonta not anyone's daddy. If anyone Ouma-kun daddy, it would be Ouma-kun's father, right?" Gonta asked.

Miu snorted again, although Gonta didn't know what was so funny. This was a pretty serious situation. Sure, Kokichi barging in at the right time and revealing Himiko's plot for Kaito to see was reckless but perfectly understandable. Denouncing Himiko later on for killing for the sake of the killing game was low, rude and harsh, but... actually, there's no but in this. It all just went downhill from there.

"Don't worry, Gonta. Ouma can be as much as an idiot as Momota. It was no surprise the fists went flying this time around. In fact, it's about time they got into a fight. With all their bickering and how hot blooded Momota is, it's more surprising that they didn't even throw punches since the very first week," Miu said.

"Don't say it like that, Iruma-san. It's OK to be an idiot, as long as you don't get yourself hurt because of it, Ouma-kun," Gonta said, first to Miu for even thinking it's OK that they fight just because of their bad relationship and then to Kokichi because he agreed that Kokichi was an idiot for fighting with Kaito when there was no reason to.

"Ouch. It's OK to call Momota-chan an idiot but not me. I'm nowhere close to his level of dumbness," Kokichi scoffed.

"Tell that to all the bruises you got," Miu said. Indeed, Kokichi was sporting a few bruises and a split lip which Gonta was now administering first aid for him. For his part, Kokichi didn't so much as flinch nor utter a sound unless it was for their conversation.

"You just see what I did to the other guy then," Kokichi sniffed, but it was not much. Just 'say goodbye to your nico nico kneecaps', according to Kokichi when he hollered that to Kaito once it went down, and a broken nose. They saw him afterwards since they were still looking out after Tsumugi and Kiibo in case they ever woke up. Now, it was too late to keep watch and decided they should get some shut in but...

"Boys will be boys," Miu sighed airily, unaffected by the brawl that went down, "But now let's get down to business. You called us in your room for a reason, Ouma. What's so important this time?"

"Wait," Gonta stopped, not at all over with Kokichi's recklessness, "Why did you fight with Momota-kun in the first place? What were you thinking?"

Kokichi remained completely silent. Maybe Miu was right that it was a long overdue fight between two guys who didn't really like each other but it was just after that threat, Kaito got angry and well... Gonta and Miu had heard everything that went down with Kokichi, Kaito and Himiko through the earpiece.

"How... how dare you?" Himiko said, rage tinted around her voice, "You don't even know why I am doing this. How dare you bring Angie and Tenko's names into this?"

"Because I do dare," Kokichi said, "Because no matter the reasons, you will still have to live with the same consequences... consequences that could be avoided if you chose not to kill. Consequences no one else wants to face, so let me just say this. Do I look like I care about your reasons? What I care more about is those consequences, consequences which should be prevented at all costs."

"Hey! Don't get so close to Yumeno like that," Kaito shouted, apparently stepping between Himiko and Kokichi by the sound of it, "And are you being a little too cruel right now, Ouma? Sure she tried to kill but there's no reason to start harassing her like that."

"I thought that was a perfectly good reason to start harassing someone, and why are you so worked up about it, Momota-chan? After all, you were going to be the victim. Shouldn't you be more grateful to me. Why defend Yumeno-chan like that then? Or are you saying you already forgiven her?"

"Of course I have!" Kaito declared, to the surprise of everyone hearing this conversation.

"It looks like he's still an idiot," Himiko said.

"He is still that stupid," Kokichi groaned.

"Even a genius can't make a cure for stupidity," Miu added her two cents.

"There is nothing wrong with being an idiot," Gonta chided.

"Why am I stuck with the label of an idiot?" Kaito asked, although he couldn't hear Miu and Gonta's responses.

"As if that wasn't a foregone conclusion," Kokichi said.

"I am not an idiot. Listen up! I hate the fact that Yumeno did try to kill me,  even wanted me to kill myself but if it were any other circumstances, she wouldn't have resorted to it. Yumeno is still a good person despite it all and I won't ignore that fact. So why are you looking at her like some monster?"

"Isn't she?" Kokichi mocked, "She even told you to kill yourself? Are those the actions of a good person? And then when I got here, I see you getting pinned down by Yumeno-chan. She's really desperate to kill you, huh, Momota-chan? Tell me, would any good person do that?"

"...I never said I was a good person," Himiko said.

"Fair enough, neither am I," Kokichi said, "But does that mean you are saying you will do all this again? So does that mean it's fair we deal with you... right now?"

"Hey, don't go twisting her words like that," Kaito defended, "I know what Yumeno was trying to do was terrible and so she even admitted herself not a good person, but that doesn't mean she doesn't deserve forgiveness. That doesn't mean that she doesn't deserve a chance."

"Oh, just like you did with Harumaki, huh?" Kokichi asked mockingly.

"Yes, exactly!" Kaito declared, "So stop being a little shit and stop making this bigger than it has to be."

"Or are you making this less than it actually is? After all, is there any guarantee that Yumeno-chan won't kill again? This is a killing game and not once has this game failed to be played by anyone with murder after murder~ At this point, shouldn't it be fairly obvious by now, or is it just that a space nerd like you has their heads so high outta the atmosphere  that you need to be crashed back to Earth. Hmph, how can an astronaut even be good if all they do is crash and burn?"

"... What did you say?"

"Oh~ do you mean the part of a no-good astronaut who's only good at crashing and burning?"

"... What was the point?" Gonta finally asked. A serious conversation derailed itself, that is no surprise because after spending time with Kokichi, that has happened more often than not. But how did it end up with Kaito and Kokichi exchanging fists over something so trivial. All it took was an astronaut insult and...

"It's not my fault that he reacted badly to that," Kokichi scoffed.

"Oh, and who retaliated to 'Well, at least I don't look like some clown failing in a sad circus!'?" Miu mocked.

... a clown insult. Gonta didn't even understand why no one could even get along at that point, as those insults were a trigger to even more insults and even physical blows.

"Anyone who dares insults clowns like that in front of me will get their penance," Kokichi said so seriously that Gonta wasn't even sure whether that's a lie.

"But it's a good thing," Kokichi cheered, "I always wanted an excuse to punch that idiot's face~ And in the end, that was actually enough to convince Yumeno-chan that violence, including murder, does not solve anything~"

Gonta frowned. That was true, for after the brawl, Himiko as the surprisingly only sane person at the moment, tried very hard to stop their fight to end up tangled in it and after what Kokichi and Kaito said prior to the brawl, Himiko had done a little thinking of her own and seeing those two's little spat... she was talked down of her murderous desires and resolved not to do so again. 

Kaito, as he promised, forgiven Himiko and resolved to help her through if she needed anything. For Kokichi, to both Kaito and Himiko, a... truce was formed. It seemed, for unknown reasons to Gonta, Kokichi and Kaito had a newfound understanding, bond and determination after their fight which ironically led to a peaceful resolve although for Kokichi, there was Kaito's annoying resolve to continue even harder into making Kokichi his sidekick. Himiko, who was roped into it, ended up sharing the same sentiment  of understanding, bond and determination after a bit more talk. However...

"But could you have done that without fighting Momota-kun?" Gonta asked. Kokichi just answered with a smile, blatantly refusing to give an actual answer. Gonta wished Kokichi could be straight with him... all of them actually, when it was actually needed of him.

"Like... I... said..." Miu said, putting her two cents of it again, "It's just boys being boys. It's all testosterones! A whole bunch of pent up frustrations, anger and hatred swirling in all it's hormonal beauty unleashed like how a guy and gal do it in bed as two guys duke it out like a natural lover's spat!"

"Do you even know what you're saying, Iruma-chan?" Kokichi asked in a deadpan voice.

"Gonta did not understand any of that," Gonta confessed.

"Me neither," Kokichi said, "And sometimes things are best left at that."

Hmm... meaning that there are things that shouldn't be understood, but why is that? Gonta would love to understand everything in the world so he could grow as a knowledgeable gentleman and know what is ungentlemanly so he could prevent such actions. Of course, these past few days, he had done such ungentlemanly actions, like knocking out both Kokichi and Kaito. Gonta wasn't proud of that, but sometimes... it was necessary.

Maybe, Kokichi and Kaito's violence was necessary but he couldn't see how, which was why he asked. But it looked like he wasn't getting his answer anytime soon.

"Enough of that," Miu  huffed, "It's getting too late and this gorgeous girl genius needs beauty sleep to stay gorgeous.  I know you want some answers outta Ouma about what went down before, Gonta, but that's just asking to look for a needle in a haystack. And we have important things to take care of now, right?"

Gonta nodded, and reluctantly let go of the topic. He still didn't know, but he would keep thinking about it, and hopefully find an answer to it one day. Let's just add this to the numerous questions Gonta had yet to find an answer to. Considering he still didn't know the mastermind's motive, why they helped with this killing game, who the ADR are, what he can do for the KGB, what are Miu and Kokichi up to and how to help or stop them depending on their plans... Gonta knew, eventually... he just had to find his answers, but for now...

"Oh, finally getting straight to the point, huh? Finally~" Kokichi said, "I also need some shut-eye after this but there's no use delaying the inevitable, yanno?"

"The inevitable?" Gonta asked.

"Of course, after all, there are only few more days before our inevitable end, aren't they?" Kokichi asked.

"Oh shit," Miu murmured. Gonta understood the feeling. Somehow, so many things have happened and so many things have been done but they ended up having little time left. They accomplished so much but not enough, as they were still here. Gonta might be jumping the gun but he thought the reason that Kokichi brought that up was...

"Does that mean you have any ideas what to do after this, Ouma-kun?" Gonta asked.

"Huh, what makes you think that?" Kokichi asked, batting his eyelashes.

"Because you brought it up, Ouma-kun," Gonta said, "So Gonta just assume that you have something to tell us."

"Sheesh, at least let me make it a surprise," Kokichi grumbled, meaning that Gonta was correct, before the checkered scarfed boy perked right back up and got to business.

"We started up the KGB, and we end with the KGB," Kokichi said, smiling.

How very vague, so Gonta asked, "What do you mean by that, Ouma-kun?"

"Well, I mean we didn't start the KGB for nothing, now did we?" Kokichi answered a question with his own, "Following what we did with the KGB, there are only a few things we can do after everything we did together the past few days, right?"

"Don't make this sound like the start of some farewell speech," Miu butted in, "You really don't get to the point, do you? So, I will get to the point for you. Now that we are done with Yumeno, there's the Four, the mastermind, Kiibs, the ADR and... Danganronpa. That's what we have found out as the KGB and what we can use for our goals. That's at least a part of what you meant when you said 'we end with the KGB' because these things, or at least at the very end of it, is something that only together as the KGB can do. ... Is that right, Ouma?"

There was a moment of silence before Kokichi blurted out, "... This is definitely an alternate universe. No way in this godforsaken world could Iruma-chan be that smart."

"Hey, what are you talking about, you shota? Of course, I'm that smart or else the world will be suffering without my genius!" Miu retorted.

"Back to point," Gonta said, marveling at Miu's answer while getting back on topic, "So that means Iruma-san is right? That's what you are hinting at, Ouma-kun?"

"As much as I want to say no just to spite Iruma-chan, unfortunately, I can't. Yes, Iruma-chan is right. After all, we made it this far with the KGB and I want to make it even farther together so that we can escape and KGB is no longer needed."

Gonta actually smiled at such a sentiment, although it was a little saddening at the thought of disbanding the KGB because Gonta doesn't know what Kokichi might mean by that. However, it made him happy how far Kokichi had come from the VR fiasco and even before then until now. From someone who seemed alone so much and alienating other people to at least being able to rely on him and Miu even a little bit.

Actually, they have all came a long way since the VR fiasco with how how each and everyone of them changed, overcame their devils and tried to move forward for their own happy endings. And Gonta wanted them to keep changing, keep overcoming their devils to come as they move forward. He won't let it all be in vain. So, Gonta knew what has to be done.

"Then, that means tomorrow... we will solve everything, isn't that right?" Gonta asked, already determined to see it all through. The Four, the mastermind, Kiibo, the ADR and... Danganronpa. He... they will face it all the way.

"A tall order, am I right?" Kokichi asked, smiling.

"That means you have a plan for it, right?" Miu asked.

"Huh, why do you assume I have a plan for such a thing?" Kokichi asked.

"It's because it's Ouma-kun we are talking about," Gonta answered in Miu's stead, since it was quite obvious.

"Wow, I'm flattered that you think so highly of me," Kokichi swooned, hand over his heart before once again quickly reverting back to his usual persona, "But again, 'coz this definitely has to be an alternate universe, Iruma-chan is right."

"This isn't an alternate universe," Miu  scoffed, "You are just way too obvious."

"Someone telling me that I'm obvious definitely points to an alternate universe!" Kokichi shot back, "That is a total insult. Take it back right now!" 

Before Miu could even say anything, Gonta stepped in between them, as he spoke to the both of them, "No violence, Iruma-san, Ouma-kun."

"Hey... do you have so little trust in us, Gonta?" Kokichi asked, "To think that we might start fighting just because of an insult."

Gonta stared straight at Kokichi, and said, "Didn't Ouma-kun fight with Momota-kun because of an insult?"

Kokichi pouted at that, but Gonta was resolute. He was simply erring to the side of caution, not wanting any small spark of violence igniting anything they couldn't do undo. For some reason, that sentiment caused a twinge in his conscience considering Gonta did knock out two people... no, wait, three people before and well... the VR fiasco. But he had long resolved to abstain violence unless absolutely necessary due to possible self-defense purposes. One day, though, he hope there will come a time that he will never need to resort to violence again, that is, when they all get out of the killing game and start anew.

"Yeesh, way to point that out to me," Kokichi said, "Fine, fine, let's get straight to the point. Let's make this our last hurrah as the KGB."

"Last hurrah? Why does that sound like we are all going to go out in a blaze of glory?" Miu asked.

"Wait, go out in a blaze of glory?" Gonta asked, not understanding the meaning of the words but if he took them literally... "Does that mean Ouma-kun and Iruma-san are planning to die in some fire to beat this killing game? You can't do that!"

"Wait, Gonta, that's just a metaphor. It doesn't mean to literally die in a fire," Miu said, which relieved Gonta but what Kokichi said next reawakened his worry.

"Oh my, you are still so naive, Gonta and even you too Iruma-chan. How can you say there is no possibility of any of us dying in the face of the upcoming climax?"

"What... what do you mean?" Gonta asked.

"The slow burn is over, the climax is coming and you cannot deny the possibility that someone will die fighting against this killing game. To fight fire with fire meant casualties. It is not impossible," Kokichi said, so nonchalantly Gonta wished he heard it wrong.

"Why... why do you have to say such a harsh truth like that?" Miu asked, which surprised Gonta because he thought she would deny it. Why wasn't she denying it?

"But..." Gonta said, because if no one will deny it, then he will, "But that is not true at all. How can you say for sure that someone will die? Didn't we form KGB because we wanted to escape killing game... with everyone else... alive?"

"That is a nice sentiment," Kokichi sneered, "But I'm a realist. I never said someone will die for sure. I'm saying it's a possibility when fighting against this killing game. People would want us dead for our insolence. It's not impossible that someone will die fighting. To win against this killing game, to truly escape the game, you need to face the consequences as is. You have to face all the possibilities. You have to steel yourselves for the last hurrah. Can you do that?"

"... Why are you telling us all this?" Gonta asked. Gonta thought that Kokichi changed but maybe that notion was proving itself false. Gonta won't say Kokichi was still the same as before but what he was telling them right now sounded eerily similar to the time Miu and Gonta found out Kokichi's insane plan in the works about sacrificing himself for the sake of the others just to win this game.

Is he implying the same thing now? Gonta patiently waited for Kokichi's answer.

"There's only so much I can do. You and Iruma-chan taught me that," Kokichi admitted, "We had a good run as the KGB, even I have to admit that much because anything I say otherwise will be easily ousted as a lie. We only have those few days left. You have to go big or go home. You cannot chicken out of a decision, you have to go through all the way. That's why I'm telling you all this. Are you ready?"

The atmosphere became heavy very quick, all that Kokichi had said sinking onto them like a ton of bricks but Gonta understood why it had to be said, why they all needed to understand it as harsh, painful and cruel as it might be. Maybe Kokichi changed after all, because all these words... he knew where they come from.

They didn't have much time until they either get all killed by the time limit, someone gets killed before the time limit that saves all of them instead or they find a way to escape the killing game. Unfortunately, Gonta, understanding the realist side Kokichi mentioned, knew that  the third option was not as possible as someone getting killed. Still... did that mean he had to give in and accept such a reality?

Of course not. Kokichi should know that too, after all their efforts these days making sure that everyone stayed alive. Himiko and Kaito were proof of that. Although Kokichi took a harsh approach talking down Himiko against murder and messing around brawling Kaito, it ended up with a peaceful resolve and determination to escape the killing game alive.

Gonta knew that Kokichi wanted everyone to escape alive as much as anyone else. He knew... he was certain that although what Kokichi said was a true possibility, it does not mean that he or anyone else would let that happen. No matter what...

"... As ready as I will ever be," Miu finally said in a solemn tone before her mouth quirked into something of a smirk, "I will take your warning to heart. Let's get our complete victory over those bastards and stick our middle fingers to them where we know it hurts."

Gonta smiled, that minus the crass talk, Miu got it. That Miu understood Kokichi's sentiments as much as Gonta did, or at least how he interpreted as such. Gonta wouldn't say he understood Kokichi a 100% or any other person for that matter, but he interpreted it in his own way and will answer his own way just like any other person in these type of situations.

"Yes," Gonta said as well, "But Gonta will also make sure, no matter what happens, we will never face those consequences. Ouma-kun might say that there is a possibility that we might die fighting but there's also a possibility that we will all make it out alive. As long as that possibility exists, you cannot deny it, right, Ouma-kun? We will make that possibility real and Gonta will go through all the way for that."

There was silence before Kokichi let out a hearty laugh that shocked both Gonta and Miu. Once the laughter died down, Kokichi spoke up, wiping tears from his eyes.

"You guys... you guys are really..." Kokichi said, but he was unable to finish that sentence, continuing with another, "I like that I know where you stand now. It's time to hear the 'Last Hurrah'."

Gonta smiled, all their experiences leading up to this and all the obstacles they have faced simply the same lesson to never give up. He would do everything he can to make sure they escape this killing game, but he also would make sure that no one would be killed under his watch. That was his compromise... his will which has not once been shaken despite everything that happened.

After all, he promised a long time ago that he would make sure that Kokichi and Miu never strayed the wrong path. That should apply to everyone else, as they all make it through alive.

... Including the villains.

Chapter Text

2 days left...

Miu knew... today was the day they should... they must... get out of here. There's still tomorrow but that last day was when killing was a definite. If no one died tomorrow, they were all going to die the day after. What kind of mastermind would take their chances?

Two murder plots have been foiled, no other motives seem to be in the works, although one could never be sure. But now was the time to look at the bigger picture.

It felt like time passed too quickly with too many unbelievable experiences crammed in. Sorting them all out, she needed an all or nothing plan for the day. Of course, she was still in the KGB but even so, putting all her chips in there was not the smartest choice. The KGB had their plan but Miu shouldn't let it be her whole plan. She needed to put something in as herself for a fail-safe if nothing else.

With what she could work with, she had to make the first move, however stupid and reckless it may be to many others when seeing from the outside.

Her first order of business right after she resolved on a plan to get out of here, she made her way to Maki's Lab. To her luck, she wasn't approached by anybody as she safely reached her destination without any suspicion upon her. It was also a good thing that Maki's Lab was among the majority that didn't even have locks so she easily made her way in and was happy that the owner was nowhere to be seen.

It was the same as when she first saw it, with different kinds of guns and knives surrounding her either on walls or on the tables and suitcases scattered over the floor. When Miu decided to open one, she was surprised to see that it stored what look like a disassembled crossbow. Miu shut it, deciding to come back to it if needed.

Why would she even need it... was because that she was searching for weapons in the first place. And what perfect place to search weapons other than the Ultimate Assassin's Lab? Sure, Miu could make weapons out of her inventions but why not put some spiffy upgrades on deadly weapons, save the hassle from creating them out of scratch and possibly mass produce them from there? It would save her time and the process to get ready her arsenal needed for her plan.

There was also the fact that genius inventor she was, she lacked any knowledge of weaponry. Admittedly, she did make inventions that could be used for self-defense but she simply got those ideas of weaponry from cartoons.

She had never hold an actual weapon let alone inspected one so she never knew what a real weapon could be like, how they could be used in tandem with her own inventions and how they could be upgraded to something better. This was also extremely useful because other than needing an arsenal, she also took Kokichi's words to heart and needed to prepare for what he said.

Miu was a selfish coward, and still is. She was not ready to die, and if it was her or them, she rather it be them but even with this self-preservation in mind, she wasn't going to lie down and let such a scenario happen. If Kokichi said there was a possibility that they die fighting, then Miu needed to make sure they win the fight so they won't die at all. And to win, they need the right weapons to take the glory. The possibility of physical confrontation was not zero.

Even though the weapons here are made for human use, she could still check the weapons out and their possible compatibility with machines. Machines... such as the Exisals. Miu promised the Monokubs that she would upgrade it... lasers and a flamethrower but whose to say she couldn't add a touch more if she got inspired. A touch more that might give a better edge than what was already thought up. That's what evolution is about after all.

However, as said, Miu was no expert with weapons at all so she couldn't tell the difference in any of those guns and knives even when they had different sizes, series and shapes. She just couldn't make heads or tails of it, but she examined them anyway, trying to understand them in her own way and seeing what could be upgraded for the better.

Knives were a more close ranged type so she disregarded them for now. Close combat was dangerous with robot bears that could crush or shoot you at moments' notice. Sure, the Exisals are out of commission as Miu made sure of that, but should things really be taken easy against a bear that could pull out those fancy execution out of freaking nowhere and freaking beaten an Exisal with one hand (according to witnesses during the very first moments of the killing game; some rebellion from the Monokubs against how Monokuma treated them, his excessive licking).

In other words, close range was a terrible option, so she should go with long range. In other words, guns. In fact, it could be a great replacement for the ElectroLaser she was building since she still failed to make the effects last longer than she wanted it to. She was sure that it has to do with insufficient energy capacity, burdened more with the additional function of disabling all electronics. Miu was almost getting the hang of perfecting the ElectroLaser but it was taking a long-ass time she didn't need.

Guns, however, would only require bullets and it might be easier to mass-produce those than make more ElectroLasers that have the possibility of running out of juice in heat of battle. There might be even more possibilities to make special kind of bullets for any kind of problem in a battle that would help them in escape.

A few minutes in the Lab and she already had so many ideas. It was the right choice to come here after all. Miu proceeded to take a gun as she held on the grip. In the Lab, there was target practice that she could use this bad boy on and get the feel of it.

Remembering some of the anime she watched when she was a kid that did involved guns although in fantasy settings (Miu would say cartoons, but are anime and cartoons the same or different), she checked the bullet chamber, turned the safety off and aimed.

While aiming, her grip faltered... because actually holding a gun, a potential murder weapon only flashbacked her to her own murder attempt with a different murder weapon... Miu shook her head out of those sentiments, before she steeled herself, told herself that she wasn't doing anything deadly and shot.

The recoil of the gun made Miu shudder, smoke came out of the gun itself. Carefully lowering the gun and turning the safety back on because she was paranoid about accident misfire, she went and checked the target.

"What the fuck? How did I miss it?" Miu asked to herself.

She didn't even shoot the target, ways off from it as the wall a little to the left with the bullet embedded for her to see. Maybe shooting was harder than she thought. At the very least, it could be feasible to install some kind of aiming device on the gun for more accurate shots. As for the bullet, what if it didn't reach the target? Why not make the bullets give off wide range attacks? Like... concocting smoke gas and blinding nearby enemies after it hits anywhere in the vicinity of the target...

She decided to take apart the gun to the mechanisms down for possible mass production,  check the other types of guns to note the differences, and there were briefcases that might hold interesting weapons that Miu could reference of. She might have to sneak a few of them off here, but it was only for the day so no would know, right?

Still, she had to make sure that no one knew she was here. Although it was unlikely, Maki might come in anytime to check her Lab so she should only come sparingly for the day and work on her inventions in the meantime while working with her now concrete plan of escape. Her inventions, of course, are key and after everything she learned, she know how and where to use them on.

As she was about to check the Monopad so Maki wasn't anywhere near here, she heard the door open and whipped around to ironically face the assassin herself when she was sure that she wouldn't come here now.

Before Miu could even think, Maki was already in her face, and with a sharp pain in Miu's hand, she felt the gun she had previously aimed at Maki upon hearing of someone coming out of her hand as Maki was the one to grip the gun and check it.

Miu contemplated her options and tried to edge away, but Maki said coldly, "Stop right there."

A chill ran down on Miu's spine and she froze there. She was so busted. And it happened all too fast. Damn... she should have checked that Monopad regularly, or a least a few seconds earlier and possibly hide...

"Now, would you care to explain why you are in my Lab?" Maki asked, as Miu was already coming up with a thousand excuses and rejecting a thousand more. In the end, all she could fumble was:

"I... I plead the Fifth."

"That doesn't give me an explanation."

"Well, why do you think I plead the Fifth! Because I don't want to give you an explanation!"

Maki crossed her arms and narrowed her eyes at that lame excuse, as she said, "But you were in my Lab, holding a gun no less. And... it seems it had been fired. Why were you target practicing with a gun?"

Miu remained silent, deciding ways to escape. Of course, she could very well tell Maki her plans, but with the Nanokumas buzzing around... she was not risking that. Personally, she would not trust Maki with any of her plans.

Miu was a generally distrusting person, and the only people she could bring herself to trust a little were Kokichi and Gonta, after everything that happened with the KGB. She wished that she could trust Kiibo, but after what she experienced yesterday? As painful as it is, how could she even trust anyone after that? The rest were idiots, simps, bitches and bastards and it's not exactly smart to trust those kind of people, in her very 'valid' opinion.

Miu even considered Maki a total bitch, only next to Tsumugi, the Ultimate Bitch for even letting them play this killing game. Maki being the Ultimate Assassin is something to be feared and after seeing the few times that she just casually choked Kokichi and even just strolled into his room, immediately shooting at him (thank God it was a dummy), well, do you seriously expect Miu to put her trust in someone like that?

"Well..." Maki said, when Miu did not answer but she still remained silent, now contemplating if she could make a run for it. However, she should have acted sooner or it might be fruitless against Maki's reflexes, because just when she was about to get ready to run, Maki held Miu down and forced her against a wall. Miu obviously squirmed and blushed, because who wouldn't experiencing a kabedon? First, Gonta did the kabedon on her a few days ago against the floor and now Maki, against the wall. Damn it, she was not a bottom! Miu called and wanted her top rights back!

"You are not going anywhere until you tell me what you are up to," Maki said sternly, admittedly true on the fact because no matter how much Miu kicked and struggled, Maki remained immovable. She even contemplated using the taser that she carried around on her person, but remembering how easily Maki got the gun from her, refrained because she did not want to lose her only self-defense weapon. So, she could only resort to one thing:

"Eek! I'm not into this girl on girl play! Just touch my boobs and be done with it already!" Miu shouted, knowing full well that this was not what Maki wanted out of her but she still said it because a part of her thought Maki might be a horny bitch who kabedon her out of wanting to get some feel out of Miu. Otherwise, Maki could have resorted other methods like just holding a knife against her, choked her out like Kokichi or the plain old twisting her arm. Kabedon was just asking something romantic of another person, the feeling is there! And the feeling that Miu got out of this romantic move (used for non-romantic purposes) was something a horny bitch would want so she hoped she would be let go if she gave that up.

"What drugs are you on?" Maki leered at Miu, "I have no time for this. Are you just going to tell me or am I going to make you tell me?"

"Eeek! Don't tell me you are already thinking of some torture play? Anything... anything but 'Choke me Daddy!' I ain't down for that shit," Miu said, her mind already making up S&M scenes that she should probably not be thinking at a time like this but Maki had choked people (Kokichi) before and choking was technically kinky and thus, S&M. In addition, she just didn't want to be choked, because after everything, once was enough and even then, should never have happened.

Maki, for her part, looked above the ceiling for some sort of guidance (hopefully, something that whispered into her ear to release Miu) before she squarely looked at Miu and contemplated her options.

Miu squirmed a little more against Maki when the uncomfortable silence stretched. At least, it did not stretch for long, but it was broken so suddenly and so... unexpectedly.

All of a sudden, Maki loosened her stance and her stern expression softened so much (although still unsmiling) that unnerved Miu instead. All in an instance, Maki simply clasped Miu's shoulder and in a simple voice, said:

"You are so tense, but you don't have to be. All I want to know is why you are doing something so dangerous as using that gun. I don't want you to put yourself and any other people in danger. So, please relax, tell me and I will accept everything you say. I won't be mad."

Wha... what is this? Is this really Maki Harukawa? What the hell is this? Why the hell is this? This is super weird, but even so... even so... this feeling. This sense of comfort, gentleness... Miu felt-

Miu.exe stopped working.

... ... ... ... ... ... ...

The next thing Miu knew was being on Maki's lap as the assassin patted her softly on the head. Miu's reaction was jumping away from Maki and asking:

"What kind of kinky play had we been doing? I don't even remember anything!"

The last thing she remembered was that gentleness and comfort. Now, none of those things appeared within Maki as she talked in her usual stern and no-nonsense voice:

"Whatever you are thinking did not happen. I just got my answer out of you."

"You... what? What in..." Miu trailed off as she suddenly remembered hearing about a similar incident happening to other people a long time ago, when no one knew that Maki was the Ultimate Assassin. Kokichi wanted to disprove Maki's tittle of Ultimate Child Caregiver by somehow convincing Kiyo and Gonta to act like babies so that Maki can pacify them with her 'child caregiver' skills. While Kiyo was a total fail, she managed to pacify Gonta to the point he regressed into a baby! The same happened to Kokichi, and Tenko and Himiko who just stumbled upon the scene. Now, it freaking happened to her?!

"What did I do? What did I say?" Miu now asked, exasperated with herself that she fell for Maki's... skill for lack of better words and apparently regressed in the same way until she snapped out of it. But now... what did she reveal? How much did Maki know? How much did those Nanokumas see and hear?

"You told me enough," Maki said simply, finally getting up herself, "You wanted to make weapons for Momota's commission, am I right?"

"I... I really told you that?!" Miu asked, surprised. She couldn't believe that she managed to lie in her regressed state?! Although, there was a grain of truth in the statement considering that with Kaito's commission for weapons to defeat Monokuma, it would make sense for Miu to come here with that purpose in mind as she looked for weapons that could be upgraded to defeat Monokuma. However, that was not Miu's purpose whatsoever, moving for herself rather than for Kaito.

"Why couldn't you just tell me?" Maki asked, and Miu tried to go along with this lie. As long as no one knew her true intentions... at this moment, she was coming to have a newfound admiration for Kokichi who could easily make up and go along with lies on the drop of the hat that it was natural. Now, Miu had to do the same.

"Well..." Miu said, fleetingly remembering her conversation with Kaito days ago to see whether anything could be of use to her in this excuse, "Momota... he... didn't want anyone to know. Not until... everything was ready. That's why I didn't say anything!"

Thank God for BS. She definitely nailed this.

"Is... that so? But why couldn't he at least tell me.. I mean, Saihara and me?" Maki asked.

"Why do I look like I know anything about the thoughts of your boy-toy?" Miu asked, crossing her arms. She wasn't sure what exactly she was supposed to from here on. Should she escape while she had the chance, or stay on and ask for Maki's expert opinion about the weaponry?

In hindsight, Miu shouldn't be picky with her options after running out of time like this. Maki might be a bitch and she did have scary powers as an assassin and a child caregiver but that doesn't mean she couldn't help Miu out. If she could keep up her lie and convince Maki, then Miu's understanding of weapons would be a lot better and she might have better ideas in what could be upgraded. And Maki wasn't Tsumugi, wasn't the mastermind but she did have a violent tendency considering her run-ins with Kokichi. Miu just had to avoid that.

Mind made up, and reminding herself to be cautious throughout it all, Miu said:

"Hmph, maybe you can ask Momota later but the sooner I did his commission, the sooner he would tell everyone, so he says. The cat's out of the bag anyway, so why don't you help me out, for Momota?"

Maki seemed to be thinking, but Miu already knew this was a done deal. There was a reason why she included Kaito's name so many times. Maki's a simp for Kaito, change her mind although they haven't fucked yet...  slowburn romance they are. She seriously lost some Monocoins during the Harumota bet because of that.

Eventually, Miu's reasoning proved true as Maki slowly nodded, "I understand. What do you want to know?"

Miu inwardly smiled. Maki's extensively knowledge of weaponry would be extremely useful and once she found the best weapons to create...

They will never know what hit them.

***

Miu and Gonta were doing their own thing, leaving Kokichi alone. Wah, they are such meanies...!

Nah, that was a lie. He couldn't care less, and he understood the importance of making lone preparations for the big day. No one would risk cutting it close and defend themselves from the very worst. There are somethings that can be done by themselves and somethings needed to be done together.

There was a silent understanding between them after the Himiko business to deal with their own needs before performing anything as the KGB. Kokichi had to narrow down what... or rather, who to deal with now. After all, there are no more uncertain factors than the people around you, capable of being unpredictable at every turn. Listing people in his mind who could either help or harm him, Miu and Gonta were the safest people who could help him and least likely to harm him although no one could ever be sure. Last night re-confirmed that notion when they made their declarations, when they understood what was going on and resolved to deal with it without looking away. Kokichi respected that.

Tsumugi and Kiibo were the most dangerous, as the mastermind and a loose canon of a robot. They are most likely connected, as master and oblivious servant. If there were any last ditch resorts after two foiled murder plans, it's most likely that Tsumugi could sic Kiibo on them, especially with the functions they discovered out of the robot just yesterday. Unfortunately, there was nothing he could do about them for now so he had to leave it to the side.

Kaito and Himiko... they were barely safe, Kokichi admitted. They have their own goals to see through but at least Kokichi was sure they won't bring him any harm on his body or his plans. One should never underestimate how flying fists, broken kneecaps, a distressed peanut gallery (Himiko), said distressed peanut gallery trying to stop the violence with 'magiiic', everyone involved including peanut gallery tied up in 'ways you rather not know', fists into insults, pointed questions, pointed answers, plenty of guilt, reflections, squirming and getting out of bondage could do for people. Well, after all that, how can something not change between them, even a little? Of course, they would have some unsaid tacit understanding between each other~

Maki was... 'someone useable'. Was it cruel of Kokichi to refer Maki like that, but he obviously hated her anyway so of course he would be cruel to her. Ironically, it was lucky that Maki tried to kill him a few days ago. Best leverage against her and Maki had so much uses. Of course, it was not impossible for her to retaliate against him out of their mutual hatred that could cloud better judgement but Kokichi had a backup for such a situation so no problemo.

That only left Shuichi... who he was not sure of, actually. Kokichi could still wistfully remember the times he was approached by the detective and the supreme leader chose various ways to test him. He was almost trustworthy then... almost. Now, he cannot ascertain how trustworthy Shuichi was. The detective, unsurprisingly, was poking around everywhere in this killing game but it had been hinted, in Miu's observation of the detective, that he was snooping with a purpose, for something that he might know for sure exists instead of randomly searching around for clues.

Still, this was Miu they were talking about, so her observations are always off the mark but her conclusion from those observations were, for some God-like reason, usually correct. Kokichi knew better to question such coincidences and the laws of the universe that comes with it. It was better to check up on Shuichi to make sure whatever he was searching for won't accidentally bring all of their harm.

Of course, it's all conjecture but it wouldn't do for Kokichi to dismiss that Shuichi's search now might tie in with the motive. That doesn't mean he shouldn't check up on Shuichi first. Once he ascertained Shuichi's position, then he could finally make headway to the plan. With all the information and experiences he had reached until now, he finally found the best answer to escape this killing game. Now, all he had to do was make sure all the pieces were in place.

'Will I have to be the detective to your criminal, Saihara-chan?" Kokichi thought to himself. Whenever they hang out, it's usually Shuichi approaching, Shuichi questioning and Kokichi playing around. Now, it would be the other way around although people will debate about Kokichi's meaning of 'playing around' to be 'messing with someone as they hide any information from the person who needs it.' Or could that be a lie? After all, the only criminal is him and he would confront Shuichi as such.

Kokichi didn't think Shuichi would have anything vital, but he was sure that Shuichi might hide whatever he would be involved with if it was tied to the motive. One look at the Monopad later, and Kokichi came to the casino, wondering what Shuichi would want to even do there. Was he still searching for vital clues?

Apparently not. Kokichi saw Shuichi relaxing by playing a fishing game and earning a good amount of Monocoins. After yesterday, or maybe the day before actually, Shuichi would pull all the stops with his detective work. Or maybe there are times that even detectives need to unwind. Still, Kokichi didn't take Shuichi for a gambling type, like a certain someone.

"Hey, Saihara-chan. What are you doing playing solo? How about a lil' competition? After all, what could be more fun than beating the shit out of the other? Just one of the many kicks of being a supreme leader of an evil organization taking down rival organizations~" Kokichi approached Shuichi, startling him out of his game as he turned to the shorter boy and answered.

"Ah, Ouma-kun," Shuichi said, as he collected his winnings, "What are you doing here?"

"The important question is what you are doing here," Kokichi said, "I didn't take you for a gambling type. You sure Momota-chan's spirit didn't possess you?"

"If Momota-kun heard that, he would be scared out of his wits, and he's not dead, you know?" Shuichi said, "I'm actually not a gambling type, but I have been running out of Monocoins so I decided to earn some more."

"By gambling?" Kokichi asked, "Aren't the gambling types of people the one who think they can earn a lot like this but end up losing a lot? I hope Momota-chan's idiocy didn't infect you, Saihara-chan."

"Oh, nothing like that at all. There are some games I'm good at, so that's why I played them in the first place," Shuichi said.

"Nishishi, so you knew you would make an easy buck, huh? That's no fun, but what do you even want those Monocoins for? Is it really alright to just leisurely play around at a time like this?" Kokichi asked.

"There's no harm in taking a breather every once in a while," Shuichi said, smiling a bit, "And sometimes I like to spend these coins on the MonoMono machine. It's a surprise every time what prizes I would get from that machine. Sometimes I even spend the Casino coins on the prizes in the store."

"Yeah, but they have lame ass prizes," Kokichi pulled a face, "There's not much compared to the MonoMono machine and who would want to just buy a new background for their Monopad anyway, when usually people could just get free background screens for their tablets? High way robbery right there."

Shuichi smiled slightly, "There are other things in that store that had actually been pretty useful to me, Ouma-kun."

"Hmm... what do you mean by that?" Kokichi asked, tilting his head, "Are you telling me that the casino has some kind of black market going on that an evil supreme leader doesn't know and a detective found out but is letting happen? Ooo... is Saihara-chan involved in some kind of crime? A corrupt detective, shame on you! But that's a lie, if Saihara-chan turns to the dark side, does that mean you will join my organization?"

This wasn't the first time that Kokichi asked Shuichi to join his organization, but that was exclusively because Shuichi was a detective. Kokichi just honestly thought it would be funny and chaotic for a detective to join his organization. Of course, Kokichi fully expected Shuichi to reject Kokichi's offer. Detectives are usually better off as rivals to evil supreme leaders.

"No, Ouma-kun," Shuichi said, smiling ruefully, "There is also no black market in the casino. In any case... what are you doing here, Ouma-kun? Did you want to play? Don't let me keep you."

"Nooo... as fun as it is to play games, I came here 'coz I wanted to challenge my beloved detective," Kokichi said playfully, putting his hands behind his back and about to start the ball rolling. Depending on Shuichi's reaction, they could either kick off Kokichi's plan together without Shuichi in the know or Kokichi would be forced to confine Shuichi in his room and mess with him a little. Of course, all of that was just lies. Who knows what Kokichi will do?

"Challenge me? Hmm... does that mean another game, Ouma-kun?" Shuichi asked.

"Oh no, it's different. Child play ends here. Now let's fight like the adults that we are. That's why it's a challenge, Saihara-chan~ Here you go~"

After this, Kokichi handed Shuichi a card that read:

Shuichi Saihara,
I have stolen your precious thing. If you want to see it again, you need to find it before me~ Or this is a lie, but what if I did steal something? Hmm~ But I won't lie about something like that, so let's duke it out, Detective-san~
Phantom Thief King~

Shuichi finished reading the card, his eyebrows scrunched as if a headache might form from the mess of wording and wrapping his head around it before he asked, "Phantom Thief King?"

"All phantom thieves have codenames for themselves, duh. And I am a supreme leader, so shouldn't I have the tittle of king?"

Shuichi shook his head a little, in exasperation already before he said, "And if I ignore this?"

"Whaaaat? Shame on you. What kind of detective refuses a challenge from a criminal? Do you ever want to see your precious thing again? Aren't you worried it is stolen? And don't you want to catch me?" Kokichi asked.

"Catch you, like this?" Shuichi asked, before stepping towards Kokichi and tried to wrap his arms around him but Kokichi easily sidestepped him with his great agility.

"Hey, no fair. That is against the rules~" Kokichi teased, "Why not check out your room before catching me? It's no fun when you get to the end of the game before even starting it. And if you even think about ignoring this, I'm going to stick to you like glue and tease the heck out of you all day."

The threat was of course an empty one, since Kokichi was too busy to stick with the detective in the first place, only having time to hang out with Shuichi like this. But as Shuichi weighed his options and took one look at Kokichi, he sighed and said, "My room, right?"

"Nishishi, I knew you would come along," Kokichi said, patting himself on the back for being persuasive just by existing. They eventually reached Shuichi's room where he checked whether anything was missing. Kokichi took the opportunity to check out Shuichi's room, finding nothing out of the ordinary except for the different Monokuma action figures in the shelf that honestly weirded Kokichi out. Then again, he had  a hanging Rantaro effigy in his own room, so what could he even say against any other weirdness in other people's rooms?

Because Shuichi's room was sparse, there were not many things that would be considered precious. Walking around and checking the room while Shuichi was busy searching all over his own room, it was still too early to say there were any hidden compartments that Shuichi might install this room if he were to hide anything, but in all seriousness, did Shuichi even have the skills to make such a thing? So, if hidden compartments were out, Shuichi might not be hiding anything in his room.

So maybe there was no chance that Shuichi was planning to murder anyone. Not that he expected such a thing since a detective killing in a killing game feels cliche. Well, he never expected it, but he still needed to figure out Shuichi's motive. He had an idea, of course... a bluff, but it wasn't the time to reveal it.

That would be done once he finished their detective vs phantom thief play~

"Ouma-kun, you were lying when you said you stole my precious thing from me, weren't you?" Shuichi asked, exasperated but unsurprised by this result.

"How are you so sure anyway? Did you check everywhere? I would never lie to you, Saihara-chan~" Kokichi said, which they both knew was a lie. Even so, Shuichi answered.

"Yes, I checked everywhere. My belongings were still with me and nothing was out of the ordinary," Shuichi said.

"And those belongings are...? And I have to see them for myself to make sure you aren't lying to me that I didn't steal anything just because you don't want to take my challenge," Kokichi said.

"Wha... oh, alright," Shuichi said, "I only have my clothes and my hat. And as you can see, they are all in my- hey, what are you doing?!"

As soon as Shuichi held up the hat he long stopped wearing after Kaede's execution, Kokichi yoinked it and jammed it on his hat with a flourishing declaration, "This is mine now~"

"My hat?" Shuichi asked, "So the part that you already stolen it was a lie?"

"Well, duh. What kind of phantom thief sends a calling card to say they already stole something? They give calling cards when they are about to steal something. That's common sense! How dare you not know about this?" Kokichi asked.

"I've just never had the chance to work on a phantom thief and their MO before, but that doesn't matter now. Please give my hat back now," Shuichi said.

"Nooo... you seriously think I will give it back to you when I declaredit's mine now. Plus, doesn't the hat make me look cuter compared to your emo look?" Kokichi asked, the differences that the hat done on both of them stark and easy to see, all in the contrast of their looks and outfits.

"So if you want your hat back, you have to catch me~ And no use asking me to stop when I am literally running away from you~" Kokichi said in a singsong voice despite Shuichi's protest to stop as Kokichi bolted out of the room and Shuichi now followed, in a usual game of cat and mouse, phantom thief and detective as they now traversed through the Academy.

Of course, by the phantom thief pride Kokichi held, chasing after Kokichi was not easy.

"When... how did you even put these traps?!" Shuichi asked, after stumbling over another trip wire and got a taste of whipped cream pie.

"Nishishi, you didn't think it would be too easy, did you?" Kokichi asked, since once he decided to commit to phantom thievery for his beloved detective, he set a few things for it during the night and activated them when they started their chase. It might probably be a waste of time according to some considering the time limit but he was DICE in heart. Always doing something petty and playful in the midst of something so serious.

However, all cat and mouse games end, with the mouse truly escaping or the cat catching their prey. In this case, after traversing the entire Academy up until the pathway to the locked hangar with near-misses, tackles, pies, trip wires, throwing branches and a lot of shouting that involved 'Stop playing around', 'I will get my hat back no matter what', 'Never!' and 'That's the spirit', the game finally met it's end in the pathway toward the hangar with psychics calling and wanting their laws back. Why?

Kokichi didn't even know what kind of position he and Shuichi were in, but he was pretty sure it was some kind of impossible kabedon that was caused by Shuichi, weird entanglement and falling in weirder ways than one. In other words, it's impossible to explain in detail. Let it be known that because this was caused by Shuichi, it's actually his fault, not his problem and that he won against Kokichi with his hat safely back on his head.

Now, using this kabedon to his advantage, Shuichi stated Kokichi right in the face and asked, "Is this enough for you, Ouma-kun?"

"Nishishi," Kokichi said, trying to get comfortable in his position as much as he can, "Truly a detective to rival a phantom thief. But if you thought that you captured me, you are wrong there. The game hasn't even started yet because I haven't stolen your precious thing yet."

"My hat is not the precious thing?" Shuichi asked.

"Nope. I am going to steal the precious thing, the truth, right here and now, as a phantom thief, a flip side of a detective. I have you right where I want you. You can only watch as I steal it from you," Kokichi said, preparing for his best shot in the dark and the answer given that will let Kokichi know Shuichi's place in all this as their games had given him better insight of the detective's skills and abilities. After all, anyone trapping Kokichi this way is a force to be reckoned with, and one he would use caution for in any circumstances. Good to know, so he won't take the detective lightly after this.

"The truth? The truth to what exactly?" Shuichi asked, as Kokichi looked through his expression, wondering whether he had anything to hide. Only a calm gaze of disbelief, exasperation and doubt stared back at him, but that was to be expected. Now, time to see if he can break it.

"Of your search for the end of this killing game. Gofer Project's last ditch hope," Kokichi finally said, a total bluff only made up from his inferences of the motives and their false memories before them, of the emphasis of Gofer Project's mystery, hope, despair and Shuichi's possible role in all that. The protagonist, although Kokichi had thought it was Kaede and Kiibo once, but Shuichi...

"How..." Shuichi's eyes widened, "How did you..." Kokichi could see the shock was real, no lie indicating any surprise twist Kokichi should be wary of. If this was Shuichi's true reaction, devoid of anymore nefarious purposes than blindly following the mastermind's whim... just like many before them...

"Nishishi, and I have stolen the truth," Kokichi smiled, "That you wanted hidden from everyone, because you were scared, weren't you? Of a possible traitor, or... someone getting hurt?"

Shuichi's shock only grew, meaning Kokichi's lies were gaining ground. If you don't know anything, BS anything to the truth is a viable option. Now, it has served it's purpose well. Or Kokichi was just good at stuff like this, trade secret of how he became good.

Now, he knew Shuichi's role in this killing game, as well as all the others. With what he knew, it was time to start moving them, to the final point, where they make their last, final escape.

"Nishishi," Kokichi laughed, enjoying the moment for all it's worth, "That's just like you, huh, Saihara-chan after everything that happened. But you aren't really getting anywhere. What if I said I might have some information, about that last ditch effort? Which is why I challenged you, tested your worth and now that you captured me, I can only comply~ But the choice is yours."

Shuichi's eyes widen and Kokichi inwardly smiled. Gottem.

***

Gonta took a deep breath, preparing himself for what was to come but he couldn't calm down. Could he do this... could he seriously, absolutely do this?

Yes, he could but for some reason, the nerves were still there. It was just too many unanswered questions and the unknown that could spike such nerves. It didn't really faze him for he is not an anxious type, but so much bad things had happened as well as good that you couldn't fault him for anticipating a few terrible consequences.

Even if he were to dwell on that, it would change nothing. The only way to change was make the move now. Miu and Kokichi were doing their own thing, and since he knew his bugs were keeping an eye on them, which had not failed him, he wasn't worried about them. It would give him some time he needed for what needed to be done, a long time ago.

With another deep breath that actually calmed him down, he finally knocked on Tsumugi Shirogane's door.

Gonta was currently in the dorm rooms after breakfast. To his discomfort, he didn't see Tsumugi anywhere and when he asked the others, they claimed they didn't see her either. Only one thought emerged from these circumstances, a thought he wished that he never had to entertain because he would have never thought it in the first place a long time ago.

'Is Shirogane-san... plotting murder?'

Gonta was ashamed of the thought, as he was always ashamed whenever he thought any of his friends (at least he hoped all of them could be his friends someday, just like when they all promised during their very first day in that Death Road of Despair) but he stopped denying the possibility and with Tsumugi, it was the most likely possibility of all.

'After tomorrow, everyone will die and the game will end... in the worst way possible, if someone doesn't do something,' Gonta thought.

Would Tsumugi want to do something? After all, isn't it the natural survival instinct of any living creature to usually keep on living? To prevent their own deaths at any cost just to live longer? It was true within the laws of nature during the decade he lived in the forest and it was true within the world of humans. But more likely, although a small part of Gonta hope it to be untrue, Tsumugi was just fulfilling her duty as the mastermind.

In any case, Gonta will do anything he can to talk Tsumugi out of any potential murder plots. Did he have any better plans? Admittedly, no. He was sure that Miu and Kokichi would have better ideas and schemes or at least have better things to say considering all their experiences, but Gonta knew he still had to go through with it.

Gonta knew he was the only person who could face Tsumugi as herself, and he would do everything in his power to reveal her true self, for him and everyone. To let Tsumugi decide for herself with everything on the table and... help her with whichever choice she made.

This was all in accordance of Gonta's assumptions with Tsumugi Shirogane, and what others have thought about her. Among the only ones who knew Tsumugi's true identity, it was only the KGB but both Miu and Kokichi were not inclined to know the mastermind better. Miu blatantly hated her as she cussed her out any chance she got, Kokichi's stance was less clear but he never expressed any interest on Tsumugi except how to defeat her so they can escape the killing game. Neither one of them wanted to understand Tsumugi, so it was up to Gonta to do that. After all, he would not truly judge a person until he knew everything and that was exactly the case with Tsumugi because:

'... Can Gonta-kun really save the despairful mastermind, Tsumugi Shirogane? Tune in!'

'Does that mean you want to be saved, Shirogane-san?'

In the end, Tsumugi never answered that question. If all this time, Tsumugi wanted to be saved out of her situation... Gonta wanted to know, whether that is true or a lie. And once he knew, he will see what Tsumugi decided... and help her.

If Tsumugi really wanted to be saved and was really remorseful over her terrible deeds, he would help her atone for her sins and find here way. If Tsumugi never wanted to be saved and was just a mastermind wanting to hurt them, Gonta will help her by defeating her and make her see the error of her ways so she could start anew.

The latter part was absolutely similar to how one would help a remorseless criminal. Make sure that the criminal is brought to justice so that not only would there be anymore victims but the criminal will be given a chance to truly look behind the error of their ways and repent before they could add anymore of their crimes.

In hindsight, whether Tsumugi was good or evil, Gonta was basically taking the same approach for her, to make sure she atones her sins, one way or another but he still needed to know where she stood in all this because same approach doesn't mean same methods. 

Finally, Tsumugi opened the door looking up in shock at Gonta before she smoothened her expression and calmly said:

"Oh, if it isn't Gonta-kun. What can I do for you?"

"Are you alright, Shirogane-san? No one saw you at breakfast today, and Gonta just worried," Gonta said.

"But why is that?" Tsumugi asked, "I could have eaten breakfast earlier before anyone else and just holed up in my room, working on my cosplays. Sometimes, I can be a total shut in doing that, so no one would have really seen me by then. So, please don't worry."

"Does that mean you are doing cosplays?" Gonta asked.

"Yeah, of course. Being stuck here without any of my faves... And then after what happened to my Lab because of the motive," Tsumugi sighed, "Last time, I was able to recreate my favorite scenes with the girls, and I've been spent time cosplaying with Harukawa-san, Momota-kun, Ouma-kun and Saihara-kun at one point, but... I just have too many faves I wanted to see and everyone here doesn't meet the requirements. So, all I could do is just make their cosplays and imagine them in those outfits. Sigh... and to think it was only a few days ago that I put Ouma-kun and Saihara-kun into Vocaloids, vampires, pop idols, phantom thieves and detectives and so much more, but there are some that couldn't suit them and I really-"

"Shirogane-san," Gonta said, interrupting her passionate rant. He knew it was rude of him, but he felt a lot of time would be spent for both of them if he let her keep going. He understood it all too well when it came to passion considering how he could see himself ranting like Tsumugi about bugs instead, but sadly, he had to cut it short.

"Ah, I'm sorry," Tsumugi apologized, "I always lose myself when it comes to these kind of things."

"It's OK, Shirogane-san," Gonta said amiably, "But can Gonta come in?"

"What for?" Tsumugi asked, "I thought you wanted to just come and check up on me?"

"Yes, that, but Gonta wanted Shirogane-san to answer a question," Gonta simply said, taking the usual straightforward approach without any better schemes to approach this. In hindsight, he should seriously learn how to do them as well as Kokichi and Miu but he just couldn't pick it up. So he had no choice but to go with this way and hope for the best.

"Hmm... what is it?" Tsumugi asked, tilting her head, seeming to expect something or maybe nothing at all. Still, Gonta asked his question... once again.

"Shirogane-san, do you want to be saved?" Gonta asked.

"Excuse me?" Tsumugi asked, her eyebrows raised, "Who doesn't want to be saved from the killing game?"

"Huh? Really?" Gonta asked, wondering whether that was a lie like Kokichi does sometimes but Gonta hopes that was not the case. Gonta hopes the answer Tsumugi gave was the true one.

... He always wanted to believe in the good of people, until he couldn't. He wanted to believe any shred of goodness inside Tsumugi Shirogane within her evil mastermind persona because he... she...

"You really want to be saved from being the master- mmph," Gonta wanted to confirm but his mouth was shut quickly by Tsumugi who looked panicked before she uncovered his mouth.

"Sorry about that. I rather we not talk about that in the open, so can you come in so we can talk about it? Although it's unbelievable you actually brought it up," Tsumugi muttered the last sentence quietly but Gonta with his sensitive hearing from picking up the small sounds of bugs were able to hear it loud and clear. What was so unbelievable about bringing up that question yesterday? Did Tsumugi really think Gonta won't want an answer to that question?

Gonta complied, coming in to a messy room filled of costumes that he tried to sidestepped on the way in. When Tsumugi locked the door, Gonta was not bothered. If he had to face Tsumugi on her own terms, so be it. But Gonta had grown from his recklessness and naivete in situations like this. He came prepared, with a trick or two up his sleeve. He learned to do so after the time Maki tried to assassinate Kokichi, with the lesson learnt obviously 'prepare for the worst'.

Now, he faced Tsumugi and asked, "So your answer was a lie?"

Tsumugi smiled, different than the ones Gonta would usually see from her, more like the smiles that Kokichi give out when he's being evil.

"What else did you expect?" Tsumugi asked, shaking her head as if amused by Gonta's hope for Tsumugi, "I am the mastermind. Why would I want to be saved from a killing game I orchestrated?"

"Gonta don't think so," Gonta easily refuted, "Shirogane-san, Gonta think you want to be saved, and Gonta will tell you why. If Gonta right, then Gonta know how to help. If Gonta wrong, then Gonta will try again until he can."

"Oya?" Tsumugi asked, "Is that a challenge I hear?"

"Gonta only doing things the way Gonta know how. Gonta not manipulative like Ouma-kun who can lead others without saying outright. Gonta not smart enough like Iruma-san, who can make machines to get answers from others. Gonta want answer from you, Shirogane-san and this is only way to get answer from you," Gonta said.

"Oh, really. This is really similar to how a detective would face off a criminal. With this development, you would have become a great protagonist. If I knew this would happen, then I would have elected you as the protagonist. I'm sure the audience would love it, the determined gentle giant who grows for the sake of his friends-"

"Shirogane-san," Gonta interrupted her a second time, not at all sorry to cut this one short because it gave him a chill down his spine just at the mention of the audience. Just remembering Kiibo... why, why mention the audience when Kiibo was not around? What... is the audience anyway, now that Gonta thought of it. Maybe another question he could ask Tsumugi?

He looked squarely at Tsumugi. Maybe he will get his answers, maybe they will all be lies, but he needed to try. He didn't want to give up until he knew for sure it was impossible. He would regret it if he didn't at least try.

"Haha, did I ramble off again?" Tsumugi asked, this time not the least embarrassed of it, "But does this mean you are ready to start your detective show?"

"Yes," Gonta said, not minding that Tsumugi was thinking it was a detective show as long as Gonta pulls it off, "Gonta will start with first fact why Shirogane-san wants to be saved from the killing game. You told Gonta so yesterday."

"I did? Enlighten me Sherlock," Tsumugi said, "Enlighten that for the audience."

"Gonta not Sherlock, and why Shirogane-san talking about audience?" Gonta asked. Unfortunately, Tsumugi just smiled, not even bothering to answer that question and was waiting for his answer instead.

"... Yesterday, you asked whether Gonta can save the despairful mastermind, who is you Shirogane-san . Would someone who didn't want to be saved say something like that?" Gonta asked.

"Or I could just be adding a touch of dramatics to the situation. I always also like to shout out to the audience with the possibilities they might want to hear or see. They say that makes a good show, something of high stakes, right? But all this time, the mastermind is actually impossible to save, giving everyone false hope. Isn't that despairing?" Tsumugi giggled.

Because Gonta outed her as the mastermind, Tsumugi seemed to drop her facade and revealing her true self for him to see. It was unsettling for Gonta, as it was quite different from the usual Tsumugi he knew, but he felt... sensed that there are somethings similar that couldn't be discounted. Like her passion. Maybe there were more similarities Gonta could find, more similarities that might prove the Tsumugi he knew was not totally fake. And understanding...

"Gonta still have a few reasons why Gonta thinks Shirogane-san wanted to be saved. Wouldn't Shirogane-san wanted to be saved if she forced into this situation like rest of us?"

Tsumugi laughed and stepped toward Gonta as he held his ground, "Forced into the situation? As you said yesterday, I am the mastermind of this game. How can someone who orchestrated the game be forced into it?"

"During the very first game, the mastermind, Junko Enoshima, didn't participate in game until she revealed. She was never participant and orchestrated game behind the scenes. Why be participant like rest of us, Shirogane-san? Why put yourself in danger? What if you were killed? Wouldn't it be better to mastermind behind scene... unless you were forced to play game?" Gonta asked, laying out his reasoning.

Tsumugi giggled, "You really don't know anything about this game, do you? Isn't it very high staked for the mastermind to participate in their own killing game, with the possibility to be killed any time and despairing that they die before they can see their own game to the end? Worthy of newer generations following Enoshima-sama's steps."

"But Junko Enoshima didn't participate in game like Shirogane-san did. She didn't take that risk, only appearing at the very last trial, isn't that right?" Gonta asked.

"But even if she appeared at the very end of the trial, she happily pressed the button to her death and faced the Ultimate Punishment when she lost, as death is the best despair of them all. The only reason why she couldn't participate in the game itself was because Monokuma was not built with the AI it has now. It was originally a robot that had to be manually controlled by a person so she had to control it herself to run the killing game. That was why she didn't participate. Me as the mastermind participating is all thanks to advanced technology granting an opportunity," Tsumugi said.

"Shirogane-san considers this killing game as an opportunity?" Gonta asked, dread clinging in his voice.

"The killing game has always been an opportunity of despair, for all disciples of Enoshima-sama," Tsumugi said lightly, unbothered, "You have given me your reasons, but they are all so easily explained away and leave you with just a despicable mastermind, someone who doesn't need saving."

Tsumugi took another step closer, now a little too close for Gonta to feel comfortable about as he took a step backward this time. However, with the room a mess of costumes, he actually tripped on one of them and Tsumugi acted quickly, pushing Gonta who was about to regain balance, towards her bed that he was falling towards until Tsumugi pinned Gonta down in a way that his movements were locked no matter how much he struggled with his superior strength. The position was simply unfavorable.

For her part, Tsumugi smiled, continuing, "So your reasoning doesn't hold, Gonta-kun. You lose. But... out of curiosity's sake, if you thought I could be saved, what would you have done?"

"Gonta still think you could be saved. So, Gonta won't answer that question because Gonta will show it to Shirogane-san instead," Gonta said, not minding his position for now. He knew he would be playing by Tsumugi's rules when he entered her room, and he let it since he wasn't in any immediate danger. Now, he simply talked, continuing where they left off.

"Save me? Then, save me now if you think you can," Tsumugi said, her mirthful voice apparent and mocking toward Gonta.

"Gonta don't think Gonta can... yet," Gonta admitted, "Because Gonta don't know whether Shirogane-san could be saved or not."

"Huh~ You contradict yourself. You say that you think you can save me but now you say you don't know," Tsumugi said.

"Gonta say what Gonta say," Gonta said, "Gonta think... believe Shirogane-san can be saved, but Gonta don't know. Belief and fact are different, aren't they? Gonta believes but he doesn't have proof... fact... because Gonta think Shirogane-san is still lying. Gonta don't know what Shirogane-san said is truth or not."

"Hmm?" Tsumugi said, "I'm not Ouma-kun, you know? I have been upfront with you ever since you revealed to know my true identity. Why are you not taking what I say as the plain and simple truth?"

"Because you never really answered Gonta's question. You answered the question with a question or avoided it or just answered as the mastermind or 'disciple to Enoshima-sama' but you never told Gonta what you think. Why is that?" Gonta said.

"Haha, what are you even saying? How can you even think something like that? Weren't you suppose to be the gentle giant character, naive and gullible but not smart enough to think stuff like this?" Tsumugi asked, more to herself than to Gonta, but he answered anyway, hoping somehow, somewhere he will reach her and he will finally know.

"Gonta is not smart, but Gonta think a lot since yesterday, with questions about Shirogane-san. About being the mastermind, about wanting to be saved, about the times Gonta spent with Shirogane-san and being friends and wondering whether true or not. Gonta just wanted to know. Gonta just wanted to believe in Shirogane-san because you once friend, despite mastermind and Gonta don't want to believe that time a lie, want to believe that Shirogane-san a good person somewhere. But if Shirogane-san want Gonta to believe you despicable mastermind, please answer the question with a yes or no and let Gonta decide. Does Shirogane-san want to be saved or not?" 

Tsumugi could only look at Gonta in shock, her thoughts now a mile away before she could compose herself, and smiled coldly at him as she said:

"No, I don't want to be saved. There is nothing to save me from."

"... Gonta see. Then, what are you going to do to Gonta now?"

Was she going to try killing him to silence her?  Would she interrogate him about what he knew after all this? If Tsumugi was someone that couldn't be saved, she wouldn't hesitate on any terrible actions befitting of the mastermind of this killing game, and yet...

Tsumugi remained silent, thinking with a blank face staring back at him and after a few such moments, Gonta cracked a smile, one of serenity and gentleness that confused Tsumugi. 

"What... what are you smiling for?" Tsumugi demanded.

"So Shirogane-san's answer was a lie. Someone who doesn't want to be saved, who is just despicable mastermind, would never hesitate to do something terrible to Gonta. But Shirogane-san hesitated. Shirogane-san... is really like Ouma-kun after all." 

"Ouma-kun?" Tsumugi asked, eyebrows shot up at the mention of his name.

"Someone who acts evil, does evil but is not evil. That doesn't excuse evil, but at least... Gonta know that means there is a good person deep down somewhere, just like for you Shirogane-san. ...Thank you for showing Gonta that, Shirogane-san."

"Wh- how- I," Tsumugi said, words failing her before she suddenly became enraged, "No, this isn't how it was supposed to go! Where is the despair? Where is the disappointment? Where is leaving me alone, as a villain so irredeemable for the heroes to defeat? Why... why are you trying to ruin the story? Ouma-kun and Iruma-san, and now you?!"

Gonta didn't understand what Tsumugi meant. He already made some progress, which he was happy about. He finally got an answer and he was ready to help her, ready to know why. Maybe this 'story' is a part of why she clings to the mastermind tittle, maybe there is something deeper about this that Gonta did not understand. But what he didn't understand before, he found out. He can do the same here too.

"I can't let the story be ruined. If the story keeps diverging... then the grand finale... no, I... I can't let it happen," Tsumugi muttered, still audible to Gonta with his good hearing unbeknownst to her as she frantically looked around. She finally landed her eyes on a bottle of dye and said darkly, "You are as much of a threat as Iruma-san and Ouma-kun. I might as well let you know the truth at your final moments. ... It's just too late to save me, Gonta-kun."

She quickly took the bottle and uncorked it, probably attempting poisoning but Gonta won't let her, especially after that heartbreaking answer and with determination, Gonta had to resort the tricks up his sleeves... or in his hair.

With a shake of his head, Tsumugi smiled, "There's no use struggling. I can just hide away my involvement with your death and let someone else take the fall so this game can continue. Not exactly what I planned, but- wait. What? Wh- BUGS!!!"

By reflex, Tsumugi let go of Gonta and backed away from the bugs that suddenly came out from his hair. Gonta was glad that the bugs agreed to nest in his hair and if he shook his head, they would come out, providing a great distraction for situations like this. As Tsumugi fumbled, having fun with the bugs that were still playing around with her, Gonta stood up and took Tsumugi in the arms, never letting go.

Eyes alight with determination, he said, "Even if too late, Gonta will save you, will save everyone from this killing game. Gonta will do his best... helping everyone. Now, it time for Shirogane-san to decide. Will you be truthful to yourself, or keep lying? Either way, Gonta will still help, because that's what Gonta does best."

Yes, indeed, that was what he does best and what he will keep doing, no matter the situation or the case.

Chapter Text

"... And if you want to detonate the bomb, all you have to do is pull this pin, OK? So unless you want us to die, don't pull that pin," Maki was saying to Miu as she handed the bomb to her for examination.

Miu took it, as she huffed and said, "I ain't gonna blow us sky high like that, Bakakawa. I still have so many things to do for that to even happen."

It had been about an hour since the kabedon and thanks to Maki's explanations, Miu found herself knowing a lot more about weapons that left her optimistic even when she had to rely on the assassin. 

"What were you doing here in the first place, Harukawa?" Miu asked, making conversation after finishing her examination of the bomb and carefully placed the weapon into the sack that Maki provided Miu when she asked whether she could bring back some weapons for the upgrade. 

Luckily, Maki complied easily. Maybe it was the fact that it was Kaito's commission idea, that Maki could easily hand over her weapons without a fuss because she really believed in that idiot. Well, that's good for Miu so who was she to complain?

"I checked my Lab periodically to make sure none of my weapons were stolen. After all, without any locks on the Lab, people can easily come here and steal any weapon here," Maki said, glancing briefly at Miu before continuing, "If they were stolen, I would inform the others and we can prevent any murder in our hands."

"Funny how an assassin cares to prevent murder," Miu muttered under her breath.

"What was that?" Maki asked, her voice so cold that the chill was crawling down Miu's spine again.

"Nothing," Miu yelped, "Nothing at all."

Damn, would she never get use to Maki's cold stare and voice that only chilled her to the very bone and gave her dread. Honestly, Miu could never get along with someone like that. Their interactions before were only because of mutual benefit of weapons and Kaito. The less she involved herself with the assassin, the better, but as of now...

"Hey, can you accompany me to my Lab, Harukawa?" Miu asked, as she heaved the sack over filled with guns and bombs. She felt that it would be too suspicious for her carrying a sack of weapons alone. Actually, it would be too suspicious for anyone to any group carrying a sack of weapons, but she felt that if Maki was there, owner of said weapons and trusted by Kaito and Shuichi, people would back off some about this.

Maki had about the same idea, at least, so after a while, she nodded and they left the Lab side by side.

As they went on in silence, neither having anything to say another with their different personalities and their mutual benefit ending the moment Miu decided she was already done with her weapon haul, they passed by no one else and made it to the Ultimate Inventor's Lab without a hitch.

As Miu carefully placed each weapon from the sack on her invention table, from the different series of guns to the bombs, Maki still lingered around and Miu didn't notice until she looked up and saw the assassin still standing there.

"What are you still doing here, Harukawa?" Miu asked, "There ain't anything here for you."

"Are you sure you don't need anymore help?" Maki finally asked, "If you have any problems down the line, it would be a hassle to find and call me here if I leave now, you know?"

"I think I'm gonna be fine," Miu asserted. And that was the truth. Thanks to the weaponry knowledge that Maki imparted on Miu, she felt that she had a good grasp about how to work around with the weapons she had now. In fact, she didn't want Maki here, pretty sure that she would be a hindrance instead.

After all, the less time Miu spent with Maki, the less chances Maki would find out that she was doing Kaito's commission was actually a lie, and dig into a truth Miu wanted no one except those in the know to know. And she didn't trust Maki with the truth, of course, nor did she trust anyone with it except for the KGB who helped her find it.

Maki stared at Miu a while long before sighing and saying, "If you think so, then go ahead. By the way, if Momota ever comes here, tell him that I know everything and I want a good explanation why he couldn't even bother to say anything about it to his friends, me and Saihara."

"What am I, your messenger?" Miu called but Maki had already turned tail and left. Miu huffed, a little relieved to see the assassin leaving. Although nothing really terrible happened between the assassin and inventor, Miu still felt wary and uncomfortable being with Maki alone so it was like a huge burden was relieved of Miu. She could work with Maki, if there were no choice, but she rather other people also accompanied them.

Now, she decided to get to work with the inventions, those guns and bombs. Miu had also inquired about flamethrowers when she didn't see any such weapon in the Lab and Maki explained it to her when Miu laid out the reason of the flamethrower being good to burn a certain bear plushie in accordance of Kaito's commission.

Before, without any knowledge or base to go on about, weapons of any kind would take a few days. Now, with a base and helpful knowledge, it will take a few hours. She wasn't an augmented human being with golden brains for nothing!

It also got her time to think of what inventions should be used for the next stages of her plan. There were a few things she was aware of and must deal with in accordance to her plan. Firstly, there was always the chance that once she and the others escaped, they would be dragged back into another killing game with their memories erased. It happened to Rantaro, and it could happen to them.

Secondly, she wasn't exactly sure how to face against their captors when they did get out. If Miu enacted an escape plan and succeeded, how would their captors respond? What would the captors prepare against them? How could Miu and the rest counter that unknown? After all, there were 53 games so far. Undoubtedly, people would have thought to escape the game. This was a theory but based on the information about Rantaro and his Survivor's Perk, Miu could be pretty sure he tried to escape the killing game as he had survived it but was brought to this one and thus wanted to end it. How Rantaro was captured back should be simple. Their captors were waiting for them, for the survivors and bring them into a brand new killing game.

And she was sure that there might be some rebellious survivors against those captors who might go against them with guns blazing but still managed to be subdued. Miu got the feeling that if they put the Ultimate Inventor like herself in this game with no worry she might retaliate against them in her escape with her awesome inventions just says that they have prepared everything except for the kitchen sink for the survivors. it would also explain how 53 games have been played without a hitch since there is that counter organization against them called the ADR and many people who would undoubtedly fight tooth and nail against the killing game for fear of their lives.

Their captors were unfortunately very through and powerful, from the little Miu could garner. The question is that while Miu could fight against the bear with her inventions and get out of this killing game, how could she fight against this enemy so she wouldn't be brought to another killing game?

Indeed, there were many disadvantages, but that was where the KGB come in place. She wouldn't even know of those disadvantages if it were not for them. So, in order to have any progress finding a solution towards the particular problem of winning against their captors after escaping the game, Miu had to rethink her KGB adventures and anything odd throughout before she reached a startling conclusion.

'I have gotta check out the Ultimate Astronaut's Lab!' the thought struck Miu with perfect clarity and all the subtlety of a wrecking ball. This thought came about after some time that she modified three guns, 5 bombs and mass produced different types of bullets which would have taken forever if it were any ordinary inventor.

How the thought came to be was very simple. Firstly, it was very strange how many astrological symbols there were in the Ultimate Adventurer's Lab and with the general sci-fi feel that has been going on throughout the game with the Flashback Light memories about meteors and whatnot... how can the Ultimate Astronaut's Lab not hold anything suspicious?

Secondly, there was that redacted file of the Gofer Project with the unknown contents and the fact that it might be a red herring of anything else Kokichi might have found in that Lab. In fact, knowing that gremlin, Kokichi definitely found something that he won't share to the rest. If he didn't before, he won't now... probably on his own time. That's just how he was.

Of course, Miu would never discount the possibility that everything was a red herring with how much those Flashback Lights were lies but she gotta go somewhere to find any kind of possibilities against their captors. Any kind of careless hint left that would help them at all. The odds are against that, but Miu needed to still try.

So it was then and there where she packed one of the newly upgraded guns, those bullets and Electrobomb just in case inside a bag to store whatever incriminating evidence before leaving her Lab and going to the Ultimate Astronaut's Lab, hoping she wouldn't run into Kaito himself or anyone else for that matter. Luckily, she didn't but to climb so many stairs, couldn't they install an escalator?

Entering the Ultimate Astronaut's Lab later, it fitted the space idiot to a T. It resembled the inside of a spaceship with a control panel smack middle and the starry sky illuminated above the ceiling.

'Now, what could be hidden inside this place?' Miu thought as she walked around, never letting her guard down. It was dangerous times after all.

'Could this place have... a secret hidden room? Wait, what am I even thinking? Of course it does,' Miu thought.

Why would Miu Iruma waste her time searching in a Lab when there's nothing suspicious inside? Since this whole Lab is suspicious, there must be a secret hidden room since there's nothing out of the ordinary in the room.

... Now the question was, how does one go about finding hidden secret rooms?

...She could go boo- ... Wait, no, she can't just 'boom boom bakudan' the Lab. Not all problems can be solved by exploding things. But it would take a dead ass long time if she searched randomly and she can't afford to waste time as is. As soon as she got the pieces in order, all the better.

...Maybe she shou- wait, no, she didn't bring any real bombs (next time she should but no time). Fine, fine, she would do this the hard way. Also, the only reason she thought of such an extreme method is because of Miu's very limited patience and fear over the fast ending time limit.

All she needed now was a way to deal with their captors and she was home free. It was unfortunate that during her time with the KGB that she finally knew about them, Danganronpa, but they never slipped any of their weakness.

There is the ADR but they could be dead for all Miu knew. Searching for more concrete leads than the ADR would have to come first since the suspicious Lab fits the bill better. She only hoped she was not going off a wild goose chase but chances are, she's not.

After all, she had the God given gift of being right more times than she count. The trials themselves proved this statement, change her mind.

'I have watched cartoons where characters can find secret rooms from places that don't look like they even have them, so I definitely can do this," Miu reassured herself, 'I just wish I had a narrator and audience to help me too...!'

That's what happens in cartoons, but unfortunately, she was not in a cartoon and even if this was, no narrator nor audience would help her considering Danganronpa and all that. Musings aside, she did a wide search of the place, letting her instincts and intuition take over when logical leads were nowhere to be found.

Thankfully, she struck gold later when she heard a hollow tap among the walls on the right side of the control panel. Everyone knew that a hollow sounding wall meant a secret room. It's cartoon logic and since a lot of nonsensical things have happened throughout the killing game like a cartoon, dysfunctional as it is, her intuition decided to take any cartoon logic she faced as truth.

But how could she... before she thought anything violent, she reasoned that there's always some kind of switch mechanism to open up this secret room and Miu may be no Ultimate Architect but they are usually near the secret room so it should be easy to find. It also reassured Miu that she was an augmented human from that surgery a long time ago so, enhanced senses... don't fail her now...!

And of course, her senses chose not to fail her as after a bunch of probing, she found the switch and...

"What in holy fucking goddamn.." Miu started sputtering curses at the very shock of what she discovered. It should be expected but just one look at the place and she did not like the connections she was making.

She was facing a completely white room filled with sixteen pods, split to eight pods lined evenly opposite of each other. But sixteen... sixteen for each participants. Those pods... She was feeling a kind of certain dread, wondering... no, absolutely sure those pods are related to whatever happened to them. She needed to inspect closer.

She inspected the pods, to check out their purpose and it didn't take long to find out they were for cold sleep.

'Cold sleep... it would make sense since this is from the Astronaut's Lab but sixteen... does that mean... wait, no, this is the red herring. This might about the Gofer Project story that those Danganronpa guys are spinning... right? Don't jump to conclusions so easily!' Miu thought to herself.

But seriously, what kind of story are they making? Miu didn't particularly care, more concerned about her reality. But still whatever story they were weaving, maybe Miu could unravel it and uncover the truth...

When the search with the pods proved so far fruitless, Miu changed tactics when she started looking around the room in general before honing towards the documents she had yet to check since she wanted to know the pods' purpose better first. The first thing that caught Miu's eyes was the Gofer Project participants list. Unfortunately, there was nothing...

"Hmm?" Miu let out, as she had flipped through the very last page and spotted three very important letters.

'ADR... what is that doing here?' Miu thought. It wasn't actually there per se but it was among many other words that described about someone's family but it was striking her odd, as if this was all a part of a code. Not only that, as Miu inspected the document further, there was something barely discernable through first glance and wouldn't be noticed otherwise if she wasn't suspicious about the appearance of ADR on this document since it actually looked like it gone through wear and tear before she even took it.

The wear and tear... was someone here before or was it always like that, Miu had no idea. But she took a closer look of her observation on the page that had the ADR looked like it was actually added recently, pasted among the other pages and more stiff than the rest. Miu wasn't sure about the oddity but it was best to pay attention.

At first, she didn't pay attention much to the ADR although they were ending the killing game the same way the KGB was trying to do because there were barely any leads about them that and it was better to concentrate on other concrete leads so she won't waste any time, going with efficiency than anything. But this lead proved that she needed to hone on the ADR.

'What are they hiding?' Miu thought as she scanned the page with ADR but as said before, it wasn't written in conventional style and when Miu read further, she noticed that if she continued reading in that unconventional style, one sentence formed itself for her to see.

... A.......................
...d ......................
...r ........................
...... look...............
............... below.....
................................

'Look below?' Miu asked, wondering whether this might be a code or just fanciful wishing but she made it this far. After all, the document was placed on a table. There might be something hidden below. Who knew? As she did so, she noticed that the table itself was a little dusty and wiping it, she saw letters appear...

Miu's eyes widened, 'No way, absolutely no way.' From the table appeared two initials and a message:

'Behind the Pod'

Miu rushed towards that person's pod, making sure she activated the Electrobomb so the Nanokumas don't know. There weren't many times any of the KGB could disable the surveillance if they didn't want the mastermind to be more paranoid than they already are and jumping a gun but this was absolutely necessary. They must not know what Miu is about to discover, or else all hope will be lost.

'I found a lead, although unexpectedly. I know who was part of the ADR.'

After Miu destroyed the evidence, she frantically searched behind that person's pod, almost tempted to destroy it just to find... whatever she needed to find but tampers down the urge knowing she must leave nothing behind. Eventually, she finally found a letter. She still had some time before the bomb's effects wore off so she skimmed through it but they were enough to pique her curiosity and deepen her curiosity.

While the surveillance was still cut off, she checked the remaining area for anything suspicious, from tapping on walls and floors like in spy movies and doing one last sweep. Afterwards, she sadly couldn't find anything else of note, although in hindsight it shouldn't be surprising. It would be no wonder if the captors were through when not leaving behind any clues.

All except one.

When time was almost up, Miu was about at the same spot where she was before deciding her business was done and left. Once she was back to her Lab, she made a show of pretending to slump as if she found nothing for the surveillance's eyes before taking up any documents of her own inventions and mixing the letter she found into them so she could prevent having an eureka moment making an invention and referring to the letter among the documents making a blueprint when she was actually reading the contents of what she found.

Was there any need for such a show? Well... who said being cautious was terrible anyway? She read the letter as followed:

For anyone reading this (hopefully me and not the mastermind), they usually erase our memories immediately when we get into the killing game location but thanks to the ADR's preventative measures, I remember everything but this might not last long. Usually, before the actual killing game, Danganronpa makes the participants play a school mode dating sim before erasing our memories and playing the actual killing game for data purposes.

Thanks to the measures ADR made so that my memories come back when we won the Ultimate Happy Ending, I am able to write everything needed to know before they put us back into those pods and pretend cold sleep so they could erase our memories and officially start the killing game.

To cut to the chase, we had a few days before Monokuma 'will let us out of the Academy' after announcing the Ultimate Happy Ending so I had enough time to place everything I need in my own Lab and my two trusted allies' Lab. Piecing it altogether will be the key to escaping this game. I hope reading all this will strike you with enough deja-vu to know what I'm talking about and lead you where it matters. The reason why I leave this letter behind the pod is because I had enough time to hide the important pieces but not to place the letter in my own room before I was dragged into the cold sleep room.

So, do you now remember those actions that you done during the game? The ADR makes sure that you are more immune to the effects of memory wiping unlike your other classmates so this must stir some memories. Now, remember and if you want to save everyone and end Danganronpa's cruelty, time is of the essence before everyone is killed and is too late.

In the end, Miu felt frustrated, because why the hell was she in a dating sim before?! When no one (except maybe Kiibo) was her type?! And what kinda thing is an Ultimate Happy Ending? Don't tell her they all had to have some fucking harem to win? Who was the person to join the harem and who was the one who made the harem?! What the hell happened?

Annoyances and bitterness aside from forgetting what could have been a good time (type or no type, as long as they get down, a good time is ensured), she had to focus more on the fact about someone else's memories that she can't remember no matter what because it's theirs, and not hers. So of course, she had no idea whoever those 'two trusted allies' are. She wasn't going to go on a wild goose chase for those places because although she had her ideas, she wasn't sure whether the ADR person during the dating sim made the same friends during the killing game.

But at least she knew which Lab she should search first but she needed an excuse as not to seem suspicious since she did find out the secret room in the Ultimate Astronaut's Lab. So, pretending that she had a bright idea, she loudly declare:

"Ah, this might be my greatest invention yet! But I just need to get somethings, even from that shit's Lab!"

With her excuse set in stone, she made her way to that one Lab, the Lab belonging to that ADR and rummaged around, searching for the piece of 'everything I need'. She hadn't been to anybody's Lab much except for her own and maybe Kiibo's so it wasn't surprising she didn't notice anything odd with other people's Labs. Either way, she knew that this was a needle in a haystack situation but this time, imagination does not fail Miu.

All she had to think was possibility of secret compartments, something inconspicuous, floorboards and any other hidey holes that Miu decided to use the 'Find hidden porn mags' invention she made, even though it was not going to be used for its original purpose. Unfortunately, that invention was only useful for small spaces so she couldn't have found a secret room in the Ultimate Astronaut's Lab with it if she tried. At least, here, it was more than possible. Baby, work the magic.

Luckily, thanks to Miu's brilliance per usual, she found out a small compartment down on one of the floor boards which was easy to pry loose. Inside was a dusty box that had not seen the light of day for possibly weeks. Blowing away the dust lightly, the words inscribed on it was:

ADR CMB FPT SME

Obviously some kind of code, no doubt written down by the ADR person themselves considering it was written in a big black marker pen. Just in case they don't remember enough from the letter. A freaking clue? She noticed that the letters like C, F and S were crossed out although she had no idea why.

Knowing that she didn't have enough information to solve the code, she could only open up the box and exclaim:

"Holy fucking shit. What the hell is that?!"

At this stage, Miu knew she needed back-up. She needed Kokichi, who was smart enough for these type of riddles, and Gonta, who had been trying to find out more about the ADR so might have found some clue not yet shared to them. There was so much a lone individual can do at this stage and if she needed help to progress, so be it.

Miu used the earpieces they still wore in agreement that whenever anyone needed help, the one who needs it must turn it on to activate the speaker function so they can relay the message to the other two. Miu turned on hers, and said:

"I found something fucking amazing. Get to my Lab down quick."

Even with this, she made sure she will have a backup plan if all else goes wrong. Until then, it was time to work together as the KGB, and get results out of this mess. That was among the many purposes of KGB after all.

***

"Ouma-kun, how... what... how could you have known?"

"I have my ways."

"With this..."

"And all we need is the right timing, Saihara-chan. I might be a total liar, but in light of what I did for you, can you trust me just this once?"

"..."

"It's a yes or no question, but I want to hear a yes."

"Are you sure you know what you are doing?"

"Questioning me of all times, Saihara-chan. Does that mean you don't want to do anything about this big secret?"

"Well, of course I want to... do something, as you say. But how can I be sure that what I want and what you want are the same?"

"Hmm... well, you wouldn't be much of a detective if you didn't question people so much, huh? Still, we both know what we are going to do. The question right now is whether we are in this together or opposing each other."

"..."

"..."

"So which one is it?"

"Well, what does your detective intuition think, Saihara-chan? I already told you before. Can you just trust me this once? I still expect a yes."

"... Isn't that just like you, Ouma-kun."

"So, I will take that as...?"

"... Yes."

That was what happened a few hours ago that settled Shuichi's role exactly where he wanted it to be. Trolling ahead with his gamble was an extremely smart thing.. After all, if one couldn't go with their bluff all the way with utmost confidence, then there's no way that one would be this successful.

It was quite ironic that a criminal's lie has become a detective's truth. Maybe it said a lot about Kokichi's skills as a criminal or how far yet Shuichi has to go as a detective. But he might speak too soon, with their games and his responses. With the lessons and the unexpected ways Shuichi carries himself when it is counted.

Will Shuichi deliver the unexpected once again? He hope so, because it would go pretty well with his plan.

Kokichi had smiled to himself after bidding Shuichi farewell until a part of the plan can be done. Tonight, if all goes well.

The chess pieces are in place. The dominos are ready to fall. All that is left are the obstacles in the way.

First, there's the robot which was why Kokichi was humming a tune as he wreaked havoc in the Ultimate Robot's Lab, laughing like a maniac.

Lie~ But he was still in the Ultimate Robot's Lab. And he was totally wreaking havoc, as he was sent to do from Satan himself~

Was that a lie? Mmm... yesn't. But to get why he was in the Ultimate Robot's Lab in the first place, well... did you think, Kokichi the Ultimate Robophobe thought 'Oh, other than the audience, Kii-boy is no big threat. After all, the Protocol has been deactivated and we all know that Kii-boy is a robot who doesn't even have a rocket punch and not even strong. He will be fine.'

Did anyone seriously think that? Did anyone seriously think he would actually think that?

Of course, he would make full use of his prejudice, doubt and suspicion on Kiibo to barge into his Lab and tamper every weapon he can. He was not sorry to destroy anything that he felt jealous for Kiibo to have, while tampered others more subtly for his own nefarious purposes to do his evil bidding because if he can't have it then at least he can use it. Evilly. All because he was an evil supreme leader! Nishishi!

Evil joking aside, it was an honest lie that he destroyed anything from the Ultimate Robot's Lab. How could he destroy all those cool weapons? For shame if anyone actually did, and so he didn't~ But he did tamper with them, that was totally not the truth, which is also an honest lie.

This prejudice was spurned on from the paranoid possibility that his Flashback Light shown him, as if the motive might have affected him more than he thought. He already knew that the Flashback Lights were utter and complete shams for the truth he was exposed to from that video but he chose not to dismiss the probability of a possessed Kiibo. It could happen, he stood by that notion and he will do anything to prevent it. That was why he was tampering with the robot weapons so that if the robot ever upgraded himself for their destruction, then he better get ready for his own destruction instead.

... OK, he was not that cruel. It was obviously a lie, but the retribution for Kiibo upgrading himself for their destruction if he was possessed... would be DICE-style. Kokichi made sure of it.

There was still so much to do left, because the second obstacle in the way of his plan was the people outside here. Their captors beyond the End Wall.

Even if they do escape the killing game, the final boss would not be the mastermind of this killing game, but their captors who would undoubtedly try to fight against them with unknown weapons that kept up the other 53 killing games so that they would go back to their own killing game... or even worse. Luckily, Kokichi remembered everything and knew the brewing plan outside of this killing game to help save or avenge him. Let's just say he had a loyal organization.

Yes... DICE exists. Those memories he had about them were very real, about his members, friends and found family: Queen, Jack, Diamonds, Clubs, Knight, Rook, Hearts, Ace and Bishop. And he was their King. As of what he remembered when he watched that video, DICE was formed out of orphans and runaways, just looking for company against the vast and cruel world that calls them out as rats, urchins and dirty little things for how they were and what they do to survive. They grew as close as friends and family after the years but one day, misfortune simply struck and landed them in Danganronpa.

Of course, as DICE, they weren't going to take it lying down. One might wonder, what would a group of street kids have to be able to go against Danganronpa, but they were just built different~

There were ups and downs and spontaneity in their plan but when Kokichi was chosen to play the killing game, everyone of DICE told him:

"Give them the worst middle finger you have got and we will do the rest."

Only a member of DICE will know what those words truly mean when to many others, it sounded like a wishful curse against Danganronpa.

'What if I didn't remember?' Kokichi thought, but he shot down that idea quickly. They were unlike the ADR, who had prepared against Danganronpa longer than DICE had been formed. That might be an exaggeration since he wasn't really sure but you get the gist.

Because they weren't like the ADR, they never planned for Kokichi to get back his memory because they didn't have that kind of preparations to do anything like that. In fact, they didn't think anyone from DICE would be chosen for a killing game so soon, just like when the 53rd game of Danganronpa was announced and Kokichi's name was brought up. They couldn't fight that decision, no matter how hard they tried, so they had to use it to their advantage. It was a hopeless situation but one they couldn't simply watch on and do nothing. If they couldn't do anything about it, then use it.

So, DICE took a gamble at that time, when Kokichi was pushed in with the other 15 participants, unknowing who the mastermind was. Unknowing what was wanted and what would be done to just prepare them all for the killing game for simple data purposes and then wipe their memories clean in the killing games.

Even so, Kokichi had tried his best that time to relay anything relevant to DICE or what happened to him and what could be used against them without letting anyone else know. Whatever information could make headway with Kokichi's continued survival of the killing games but there was still a possibility that he would still die. The killing game was cruel and merciless. Promising to survive was just delusional hope that shouldn't be taken so heavily.

DICE knew this as much as he did. That's why... if Kokichi would die, they would avenge him. If Kokichi lived... they would continue ensuring his survival until the bitter end.

So, Kokichi had to reassure himself it would not be in vain. That whether he lived or die, he would make an impact to the killing game and DICE, if they were the stalwart organization that he knew, no matter how long it takes, will deal the final finishing blow to cripple Danganronpa for the sins against them.

... That was what Kokichi would think long ago, if he were to remember this really early on. However, he didn't think the same now. He still had a steadfast trust for his organization where he went through thick and thin. But... when before, it didn't matter that Kokichi could die because it was possible, it now mattered that he could die because nothing good would ever come out with his death.

KGB changed him that way. Miu and Gonta were too adamant he didn't die, for various reasons but because of them... the possibility to live is higher than the possibility of death and death will just be letting the mastermind laugh to his face. Like hell would he let them have the last laugh. That was his job!

Dying after everything that happen would mean everything would be in vain. Dying would not bring any benefits at this stage, so he won't die. And the KGB and DICE... will help him in that endeavor.

No matter what, DICE will do everything they could for their own, memory or no memory and Kokichi was glad to remember such a thing because he now knew of outside help other than ADR that he could count on... and remembered everything about Danganronpa that DICE researched before he entered into the killing game... and knew what to do.

'We had so much plans... but with everything going on, there are only few plans that could be used and depending how the pieces move on the board, there would be even less,' Kokichi thought.

He still remembered at the dead of the night after their kidnapping when they couldn't sleep, they would discuss a lot of things, of what they knew and how they would do it in code:

'... and they think our job here is done, but they got another thing coming. The cyclops think he's smart but he's blind with just one eye.'

'The fruitloops they have, it is laughable. I wouldn't eat them for breakfast, but there are some ways to make them better.'

'They have structure but it's not as great as Rapunzel's tower. It crumbles here and there, so let's take the chinks. Play the games and land on Trafalgar Square.'

'To the red, why not the yellow? And the blue or green?'

'Green is riskier, can't be like Area 51, can it?'

'And NASA is OK? That's like asking how many  meteors it would take to bring an astronaut from the Moon to Mars.'

'But in the end, we have the rainbow and the way we bend it to the right color is what we must do. Yellow is our best bet, the rays of the sun blinding the ogres. We will just have to Russia our way through.'

'Ra-Ra- Rasputin, huh? The board is set so now the question is how the DICE will roll?'

'However we throw it, right? And all we can do is move where it takes us but with our custom-made ones.'

Kokichi now smiled fondly of those memories, nonsense to the average person and less nonsense to DICE who love making up codes and pretending themselves the best criminal organization (that was a lie, they are totally a criminal organization). Now more sure of what is to be done, he rolled the DICE as he finished up the Ultimate Robot's Lab and headed to the Ultimate Maid's.

This Academy contains a lot more secrets than one would think. What he shown Shuichi was the tip of the iceberg. He had all the people in place. Now, was the time to bring all the secrets of this Academy in place too.

Not many people would know this, as it involves memories before the killing game, but for Danganronpa, as they were planning how the Academy should look like in accordance to everyone's Ultimate Talents and backgrounds, they ended up having a lot of rooms that never made the final cut but was still reserved just in case of diverging story plots.

Even if that were the case, why would Kokichi need to go to some secret room? Did it even have any relevance to his plan? Actually... yes. The one good thing about that video was that it returns all memories to the watcher and really... all memories.

Because... what do you think happens when those reserved rooms are discovered when there isn't a need to? Sure, the mastermind could leave it be but there is a reason they are reserved for diverging story plots. When the story isn't diverging at all, there's no need to jump the gun. Instead, it's better to sweep it under the rug.

'If I remember right...' Kokichi thought as he finally made into the Ultimate Maid's Lab, the same as ever as it was left. Making sure the Lab was closed tight, Kokichi rummaged the bag he had been carrying all this time since the Ultimate Robot's Lab for the Bugvac he packed.

Needing to sweep away all the bug surveillance without disabling the electricity of the rest of the room, that was what the Bugvac was for. And he didn't want to leave himself with the disadvantage of no electricity for what he was about to do.

DICE might be not like the ADR but that never mean they didn't have a few tricks up their sleeves, good skills and talents to perform small heaven-sent miracles. It was a memory right inside the killing game, a memory he was forced to forget immediately when he and Kirumi found out something they weren't suppose to...

"Stop trying to escape and listen to me," Kirumi demanded as she was trying to block Kokichi's escape route out of her Lab.

"You can't make a supreme leader bow down and listen to the masses! I crave freedom and revolution!" Kokichi declared as he once again dodged Kirumi's attempts of capturing him and trying to find any routes out of the Lab.

It was what one would call a normal day in a killing game, where people went about their daily lives. This was the daily life of Kokichi and Kirumi, the former pulling a prank while the latter was just doing her duties and the maid, thinking it had gone too far this time around decided to bring the supreme leader into her Lab for a very long lecture. Of course, any supreme leader in their right mind wouldn't stand for any of that. So he tried to escape.

Frankly, all of that was normal. What wasn't normal was that during their game of cat and mouse was interrupted by a loud sound behind the shutter that held the washing machines and other housework supplies. Kirumi and Kokichi had stopped what they were doing as they looked at each other and both headed toward the shutter.

Kirumi pulled it open, asking out, "Is anyone there?"

There was no response but the room inside was a mess with the laundry machines inhumanely pushed out of their neat order and a few objects such as the vacuums fallen out of place.

"Did a mini earthquake happen here?" Kokichi joked but it was a serious question all the same. After all, a mess of this nature is not natural. A mini earthquake concentrated on one space is not natural and this was not the work of a person. What the hell happened?

Kokichi took note of the room before his eyes honed on a... big red button that must have been previously hidden behind one of the washing machines. Kokichi gravitated to it like a moth to a flame.

"Ouma-kun what are you- wait! I advise you not to push such a suspicious-!" Kirumi shouted as she first inquired what he was doing and now trying to stop him from pushing the button.

Too late~ Of course, he pushed the button because when it comes to big red buttons, it doesn't matter it can nuke a third world country or launch missiles to the Moon, you just push it. They are buttons to a whole load of fun and chaos.

Another rumble but not in this room, but the one after those shutters, as the whole Lab was revamped with spinning walls changing the wallpaper and furniture attached as well as the classic table spinning downward to a new one. From a maid's Lab into...

"What is this?" Kirumi asked, "Why is my Lab suddenly a politician's office?"

It indeed does with a large desk and chair replacing the table with Victorian dolls, a Japanese flag next to that desk. A bookshelf on the other side of the desk with a large table appearing out of nowhere and sofas surrounding it. Documents can be seen spread over that table and desk, as well as many frames with medals of achievement and certificates. If nothing stranger...

"What are those dices?" Kokichi murmured, seeing two dices, barely seen behind a picture frame above the bookshelf. It felt like a strange part of the decor and not only that, they were very fa-

"Hey, hey, hey, how on Earth did you find this room? I can't have that now," a voice that belonged neither of the two shouted as suddenly, Kokichi felt like he was pricked on the neck and fell. He couldn't move, he was paralyzed. Eyes darting, he saw that Kirumi was also the same, twitching and trying to figure out what was going on.

The answer came in front of them, in the form of Monokuma who was holding a Flashback Light at the both of them.

"Sheesh... this room wasn't supposed to be revealed in the first place!" Monokuma complained, "This room wasn't supposed to be part of the story after all. We have motives for this. Sigh... well, time for you to forget that this ever happened."

And with a flash, Kokichi found himself back in bed, unknowing of the past interaction with Kirumi, the big red button, the new Lab and those dices. And it was the same for Kirumi as well.

Now, keeping his guard up from Monokuma's possible surprise attack although he hoped sweeping away the surveillance was enough for the bear to not notice, he had already found a way to move that washing machine (he snuck away some of Miu's inventions) and pushed that red button. The Lab once again turned into that politician's office just like that day... when there were more of them, when the second motive wasn't given out. After knowing who Kirumi really was after that second class trial, he was certain that this must be the Ultimate Prime Minister's Lab (Ultimate tittle a placeholder until told otherwise). For some reason, this Lab was never meant to be revealed and yet, it had never been demolished ever since that fated day. Maybe didn't want to waste on demolition or gain other's curiosity because of it?

Either way, the fact was that the Lab was still here as well as those dices. Kokichi climbed up to the bookshelf like a monkey to get a closer look at the dices. As Kokichi had previously guessed, they were pretty familiar and unique dices.

One dice was split into half, with adjacent red and white faces with the red part having white crosses and the white part having black teardrops while the other dice is purely black with white dots. They could be barely seen with a picture frame in front of them, but at that time... Kokichi did see them and now he was seeing the unique dice's number in front of him: The red-white one was showing him the red side with three white crosses and the black one had five white dots to show.

The DICE had been rolled. Kokichi did not doubt this was sent from DICE members themselves, was certain that the crash heard that day and him being here was not coincidental. That whatever went behind the scenes was to sent this message. And the message was read as clear as day.

How DICE was able to achieve this... well, it's a trade secret but let it be said that the small things do matter~ He wouldn't know what would happen otherwise if he never got this message in the first place but it was truly a heaven sent.

He knew what was going on on both sides of the coin, and although he was wholly aware that anything could change, for now, this was enough.

The red side, three crosses. Black side, five dots. The three - five. Total of eight and one large of great luck. Crosses, crossing out the enemy. Dots, of an obstacle. To translate from DICE code into layman terms:

'Outside: Enemy threat - be wary but take risks against them to win. Problems posed: Infiltration and takedown - not going as smoothly but enough for opportunity if you lie in wait and don't rush. Immediate action: if awake, go straight and destroy. Aim for the big guys and go big. Go bang, but run away from explosions.

And Kokichi would plan to do just that, finally knowing what was happening inside and outside...

Will have to wait when he got a message from Miu out of the blue not long after.

Well, maybe it was about time they reconvene and do what they did best~

***

"What is your decision, Shirogane-san? How can Gonta help you?"

"..."

"Shirogane-san, what did you mean by grand finale? Story? Is that the reason why you mastermind?"

"..."

"Do you have anything planned after this? A murder plot?"

"..."

" Shirogane-san... won't you just talk to Gonta?"

"..."

"... Gonta understand. But Gonta not going to give up. Gonta will make you talk soon enough. Please... Shirogane-san, as long as we still alive, it's never too late."

"..."

That was an hour or so ago when Gonta finally left Tsumugi after what he discovered, at least making progress but far from accomplishing his goals.

Is there any chance of saving Tsumugi if she thought it was too late? Could he? Only time would tell, but Gonta will try because he didn't want to give up when there was a chance to go on. It worked with Maki when Kaito reached out a hand to her because he could very well see how much she opened up afterwards, it worked with Miu and Kokichi who almost killed each other now working for the greater good together. If it wasn't impossible for them to become better, then why not Tsumugi either? As far as Gonta cared, there was still doubt that Tsumugi was past the point of no return and thus can still be saved.

Yet he understood persisting with Tsumugi like that would be a complete dead end, so he had to change his approach and try again at a later time. For now, he could only do other things he had to set out to do as the time limit fast approaches. Maybe along the way, he could find some... any clues to break Tsumugi's armor.

Retracing his steps, the KGB's goals, his obligations towards Miu and Kokichi and the past few days, Gonta found himself standing before the Ultimate Cosplayer's Lab before letting himself in. For some reason, he felt like he had been doing a lot of ungentlemanly things: Violence (knocking out people) and breaking into places without the owner's permission (although the Labs can be freely entered by anyone).

So, needless to say, he felt uncomfortable about this latest ungentlemanly transgression but he knew that it was important. When he escaped from the killing game, he will relearn the ways of the gentleman and become a better person he was now, but for now, he will just focus on his objectives, even if it meant disregarding gentlemanly ways. It still hurts his conscience a little.

There wasn't anything out of the ordinary with Tsumugi's Lab as Gonta started searching around, seeing whether there was anything of note that will help understand Tsumugi better.

Gonta looked through the numerous clothes Tsumugi took care to make and wondered, once again, what took her down the path to be the mastermind. Such passion and care for clothing, to make more, would she really throw it away to mastermind the game where there was the possibility of her dying without continuing such passions?

Gonta knew it was still too early to reach conclusions so he will find the answer to the questions that Tsumugi won't answer. He will find it himself.

Tsumugi's grand finale and story. The reason she became the mastermind. Her plans after this. A possible murder plot.

But Tsumugi's decision? Well, that was an answer he could only take from the person herself because there is nowhere else to find such an answer.

In any case, after the costumes was the rotating stage set. There was the appearing classroom, a castle set and... a bathtub? There were no other sets. Gonta didn't understand why would anyone put a bathtub out in the open like that. Just... why?

Thinking it suspicious, that was the first thing he checked. Unfortunately, it amounted to nothing, even checking underneath it but it was a regular bath set. He did note that the bath set was grimy and dreary with the bathtub stained with something... like stains? It was curious sure, but in the end, it didn't lead to anything because for all Gonta knew, it could be a normal bathtub set somewhere. Like how dreary and grimy the shower room of Ryoma's Lab is. He had never seen anything like that but it existed. Who's to say this type of bathtub set doesn't also appear in prison where the shower room Ryoma's Lab come from. As far as Gonta knows from his limited knowledge, it's not impossible.

He also checked the classroom set and castle set.

The classroom set had sixteen desks and a teacher's desk with the blackboard that had Monokuma drawn with a smiley face and peace sign with the words written beside him 'Let's enjoy this killing game semester~'

Gonta had checked the castle set too, where he couldn't even go in the castle by any means necessary. He hadn't dared to smash it because he was already being rude entering here and he felt even worse if he were to damage anything in the Lab for nothing. In any case, the castle's windows weren't see through and it wasn't much of a building anyway...

He had also tried everything he could without last resorts to check the set and eventually deem that he would have no choice only if he found nothing. He was still hesitant about violence, like any true gentleman should be. In fact, a true gentleman should never resort to violence of any kind in the first place so he hoped that this too will be the case.

But out of all the Lab, there was only one place left to look when the sets and costumes (including in the storeroom) are all looked about. The bar set. Apparently, Tsumugi worked part time as a barmaid to earn some money.

Gonta had never drank alcohol in his life let alone went to a bar, so he wasn't even sure if any of the bottles behind the counter were suspicious or not. So he did the most logical thing he knew of.

He decided to take out and each every one of them to take a sniff and deem them dangerous or not. His sense of smell was something he gotten back in the wilderness, an ability to smell for danger which has helped him more times than can be counted. He had to thank his forest family and forest friends for it.

But before he could do so, as he took out the first bottle, he noticed something odd.

'Hmm... picture?' Gonta thought as just behind the bottle was a part of someone's eye on part of a face staring back at him. He didn't know whose it was. Wondering what it is, he started taking out a few more bottles to get a clearer picture and indeed he got a picture.

It surprised him to see Tsumugi and another person posing for the camera. Carefully taking the picture down, he examined everything including the back.

Although the picture itself was ordinary, two people posing for the camera, the back had words written on it with pencil mark. However, it was blurry as if someone wanted to rub it out and forget all about it.

The little Gonta could read and interpret was:

TS and  [unreadable] , before cosplay-

He couldn't read after that part but that made him re-examine the bottles once again. It was due to this that he noticed the bottles behind the bar counter he can see were all filled with opaque liquid... that could easily hide pictures like the one he's seen?

And then there was the bottles behind the counter he couldn't see, all holding transparent fizzy liquid where it was translucent enough to see that there was something behind them.

Spurned on by this newfound discovery, Gonta started taking down each and every one of those bottles, having put the photo back in its place. Once he removed all the bottles, he noticed that each shelf were a myriad of photos.

In fact, it was a collage of photos, of Tsumugi and 15 other people.

Among those 15 other people was Rantaro Amami and someone who looks exactly like Kaede Akamatsu but has the initials MA, among the seen initials such as TS and RA.

"Did Akamatsu-san have a twin?" Gonta asked aloud to himself. He never knew... but the real question was what she was doing with both Tsumugi and Rantaro. And the fact that both killer and victim knew each other... in wherever they are in those photos with 14 others.

Gonta continued to examine those photos, eager to learn them as they might answer questions about Tsumugi he didn't even know. But in those photos, to Gonta, she was still the same as ever when Gonta knew her before she showed the mastermind side of herself.

Apparently, these photos were shots taken during some kind of cosplay shoot, similar to the time when the girls decided to help Tsumugi with a scene or two (he was shown the pictures by Tsumugi during a free time together. Kirumi and Maki looked good in Kiyo and Shuichi's outfits respectively).

The photos weave a certain kind of story in a chronological order.

Starting with a classroom, where there were about four students in school uniform who were just moving around, tidying up the classroom.

Afterwards, another picture was taken that the four students were taking up a video game seemingly found from nowhere before there were green flash effect that were apparently the reason of their shocked expressions.

The pictures following were from the castle set, where those four people dressed as a paladin, healer, priest and archer who met a guide as they were talking about a quest to defeat the Demon King.

It was basically an adventure from there where those four people journeyed together in their quest and met many other people who only helped before leaving the scene. Only Tsumugi who was a mage joined the party permanently after helping her in some quest.

Rantaro was the Demon King the other five battled and Kaede's twin seemed to be a double agent assassin who was supposed to be the Demon King's aide but backstabbed him in the end when the party was almost down on their luck.

With the help of the assassin, the party rallied and defeated the Demon King.

'Then where does the bathtub come from... and how come the people look familiar?' Gonta thought.

However, the collage of photos were not over yet and the answer to the bathtub was there for all to see.

When Gonta examined them, a rising horror could be felt. It just took three pictures.

The first photo was in somewhere similar to the bathroom set where two girls, Tsumugi and Kaede's twin were drinking alcohol and chatting with each other as a few bottles laid around between them.

The second photo was a charred bathtub filled with the same alcohol that was drank, with a burnt body inside.

The third photo were the people who have discovered the body, crying and in shock. Among them was Rantaro, who could only stand still in his shock and...

Kaede's twin, who raised her hand up in her mouth as if she couldn't believe it. Gonta couldn't believe it either. Because if following those photos, if it was just Tsumugi and Kaede's twin and if her twin was here...

Does that mean Tsumugi was the victim and now dead? Then who was the Tsumugi Shirogane now among them? Why did this even-

'Oh, Amami-kun... and those other people... they are-'

Rantaro was the Ultimate Survivor because he survived the previous killing game, which were what those photos about. Now that the fact came to him, it wasn't unsurprising to see Kaede's twin. In one of the portraits, there was a girl about the same height, build and clothes. However, unlike the other portraits, the face had been crossed out so much it was unrecognizable.

But this had revealed some new facts Gonta could use. Tsumugi had been in the previous killing game, same as Rantaro. It might explain why there were only 14 portraits at the Ultimate Adventurer's Lab. The other two portraits that were not there would be for Rantaro and Tsumugi.

But this still leads to a further round of questions. Because it doesn't change the fact that with those three photos, the obvious conclusion would be a dead Tsumugi but she was alive now. There might be another for this, such as Tsumugi cosplaying as Kaede's twin, but there was Tsumugi's cospox and even so, per killing game rules, since there were only two of them at the time, if the twin was the victim and the cosplayer who decided to dress up as the victim was the killer, Tsumugi would still be executed.

That would mean Tsumugi would die either way, so why...

Maybe it's Kaede's twin but she decided to use Tsumugi's name. Actually that one might be reaching a little too far.

At this point, speculating will not lead to any answers. This mystery might be bigger than he ever imagined, although he felt he might be getting closer to knowing Tsumugi's truths than ever before.

All he needed was more pieces and fixing them together. So that meant finding answers to the newer questions and how do they relate to the old ones.

Was Tsumugi really the Tsumugi they know? What were Rantaro and Tsumugi's relationship in the game? What happened in that game? Was what happened at that time a reason why Tsumugi was the mastermind of this game? Did any of it relate to her grand finale and story?

More questions, less answers but some that might have power to break Tsumugi's armor. He just needed more...

Knowing that asking questions now won't help, Gonta decided to finally take down those three photos to read whatever was on the back just like he did with the other photos (which is why he knew about the story plot for that cosplay adventure).

The one with Tsumugi and Kaede's twin getting drunk was:

TS and MA getting drunk like wasted party chicks.

The second photo, the one with the burnt body had more official writing:

Victim #5: ???
Burnt to dea-  [drink spill staining the rest of the words and making them illegible]

The final one was written pretty hastily that Gonta almost couldn't read it because of illegible handwriting, yet he barely managed:

MA... RA... TS...never... forget... revenge...

"Revenge?" Gonta asked aloud, between those three people. But revenge against... what exactly?

He had yet to know the circumstances so he didn't feel like jumping to conclusions just yet.

'Gather more information...' Gonta thought.

So, he had no choice but to face the castle, told himself it was for the greater good and there was no choice... before he took a run straight for the castle doors!

And he rammed through the doors... that opened easily without destroying anything.

'Wha... but, oh, Gonta forgot to push the doors,' Gonta realised.

He had only pulled the doors to think it was locked before he checked whether there were any other entry points. Oops. Either way, Gonta was pretty thankful he didn't have to break down any doors today.

The inside of the castle was similar to what he had seen in the photos. A throne in a dark and majestic room. On the throne, Gonta noticed that there was a photo lying a little underneath the throne. Picking it up, he saw immediately that the photo was ruined, no way to see what the picture even was.

However, he could see the words written behind the photo:

The Demon King will have revenge.

Revenge... Demon King... Rantaro? Rantaro... getting revenge?

... you wanted this killing game, so you have to win no matter what. ... No matter what.

That Survivor Perk video once again flashed in Gonta's mind. With the newfound information, another answer could be taken out from that statement.

'Taking revenge against "Shirogane-san" in this killing game? But how?'

There would be a reason why Rantaro was the first to die despite ironically being the Ultimate Survivor but, really... that?

Is this a reason why Tsumugi said it was too late for someone like her?

What more can he find to make things have more sense rather than having more questions to answer although he sense the connections between all of them. He just had to keep finding answers.

He went back to the bar, making sure he didn't miss anything while putting back the bottles once he was done with the photo collage.

Unfortunately, there were no hidden compartments for the bottle rack that could help him find anything more. So this time around, he looked at the counter. This time, he struck gold that answered nearly everything when he took out two odd things from the counter.

Identical hair pins. But in two very different conditions. One charred and the other with pink streaks.

They were quite ordinary, a grey pin with a red dot on the top although the dot for the pink streaked one was quite dull and the other ashen that Gonta could not tell.

But it was pretty familiar. In fact, he felt he had seen it-

And then, the light weakly flashed red.

And Gonta remembered.

'... many ways. But have to be hidden. Yet if it was ever found...'

'... of us know, so if you see it blinking, your memories... maybe only some... missing pieces but enough...'

'Please... help me... and...  end...'

Gonta blinked away from the memory as soon as it came to be. Was this fate or simply very convenient? But was it really convenient when it was meant to be?

This would surprisingly seem unrelated to his questions towards Tsumugi, and yet... it was all too important in pursuit of one of his many objectives that he had put on hold in favor of finding more about Tsumugi.

Gonta actually knew who the ADR is. And they entrusted him among the few with their wishes and the ability to regain back his memories, at least partially. The ADR apparently prepared many subtle ways for the participants to regain their memories in order to help them revolt against the game with an extra edge. That hairpin was one of them, and thanks to it, Gonta had a few of his memories back.

And having his memories now, even if not all of them, are to be said, a game changer.

Unfortunately, Gonta still didn't have any knowledge about Tsumugi but his newfound memories have given him clarity of his next moves and how to pursue both the mastermind and the ADR together because... those hairpins were all the evidence he needed that they were connected even before this killing game. A new lead actually.

These hairpins belonged exclusively to the ADR, and while Gonta knew the pink streaked one belonged to the ADR of their killing game, the burnt one did not. In fact, since it was burnt and there was something else... someone else burnt...

Kaede's twin, Tsumugi, a burnt hairpin.

It was obvious that Kaede's twin was an ADR and Tsumugi discovered upon it. Or maybe Tsumugi didn't discover at all and kept the pin as a keepsake. In any case, the connection was obvious.

Even though there were still a lot more questions to go, Gonta was starting to have a general idea with what he accumulated such as the previous killing game, Rantaro and Tsumugi's connection, Rantaro's revenge...

'Gonta think he know a few answers, although Gonta not sure completely right. The previous killing game might related to grand finale and story. Also reason Shirogane-san mastermind. Previous killing game, Shirogane-san not mastermind but now... Shirogane-san was forced.'

He knew... because from what he remembered of the situation before being brought into the killing game, and if she came from a previous killing game, the only possible conclusion is being forced into it. Tsumugi being suicidal or sadistic would no longer factor against conclusive forced participation because...

'I don't want... I can't... not anymore... I just...'

 'Shut up! It was already decided after the stupid stunt pulled there. You are coming back whether you like it or not!'

'Please... I... she... we all... just wanted... an esc-'

A slap was heard.

'Like I care! Unbelievable, doesn't even follow the formula... you are coming with me and we are going to teach you everything you need to know very carefully. Don't worry, in the end you will love it. Everyone always ends up loving it.'

'Wait, no, I will do it, even if I have to forg-'

It was before the killing game, a memory Gonta had before that. He was chosen as a participant of the killing game so he didn't know anyone else back then. Not wanting to go through the killing game like everybody else, Gonta tried to escape before he heard a snippet of that conversation. It was cut off because Gonta was knocked out by the captors and brought back, restrained so he won't escape again.

That was also when he met two other restrained people, one of them the ADR. He was entrusted something of importance after a fast forming friendship from their circumstances and the fact that they would all be participants of the same killing game.

That something of importance might hold some key to ending this game and anymore answers about Tsumugi among the information he now had. He wasn't really sure, but only the slightest chance was needed. After all, he found more than he bargained in Tsumugi's Lab. He could find more than he bargained with ADR. They gave him a few of his memories that helped, and now...

Unfortunately, he still didn't know as much as well as many unknown things thrown into his lap. He didn't know Tsumugi's next move nor plot. He didn't know her involvement in that killing. He didn't know whether Tsumugi was the actual Tsumugi Shirogane... although Gonta still referred her as Tsumugi because he knew her as Tsumugi.

He also didn't know how Tsumugi might be connected at all to the ADR... but he knew his role in it.

Finding out about Tsumugi was important but so was other things. Like the ADR, more than ever. As they might be ever so connected and just the right lead after this Lab.

But before he could continue to this next course of action, he had a call from Miu. It seemed there was much to do, but he didn't mind. Because it meant they might be getting closer to their answers and the end of their goals, once everything is unraveled bit by bit.

Chapter Text

"Thanks for coming all the way, bitches. Coz I got something for you!"

Miu had summoned Kokichi and Gonta back to her Lab for some very important news.

"Says the bitch herself. So why did you summon us here? Of course, it better be good," Kokichi said, rubbing his hands.

"Do you need any help, Iruma-san?" Gonta asked.

"Of course it's going to be good and yes, I need all the help I can get," Miu admitted as she showed them the box with the strange initials. Kokichi and Gonta stared at it openly.

"I found out who the ADR is, and this is theirs," Miu said bluntly, not mentioning who the ADR is because she didn't want the surveillance to know as that information will undoubtedly be relayed to the mastermind, and it was information best left in the dark. They have an advantage with this and it was unwise to carelessly leave the advantage open for the mastermind to take.

"You mean this i- Mmph?!" Gonta started saying before Kokichi climbed up Gonta and clapped a hand to his mouth as the smaller boy shook his head at the taller one. Afterwards, Kokichi quickly let go as Gonta let out a buh sound and adjusted himself after that shocking move.

"Why did Ouma-kun stop Gonta from saying anything?" Gonta asked, confused.

Kokichi smiled, with a quick glance at Miu, as if he knew her intentions from the start and explained it in her stead, "Knowing who the ADR is an advantage but it's an advantage we shouldn't let dear Shirogane-chan or anyone in that Danganronpa know~ After all, did you forget about the surveillance cameras?"

"Oh," Gonta said, nodding in understanding, "Then Gonta don't say name then."

"Exactly," Kokichi said, nodding back.

"Wait a minute," Miu said, realizing something. Gonta was about to say the ADR's name, meaning he knew... but how, "Do you really know who the ADR is, but... how?"

"Gonta... just knows," Gonta finished lamely, his eyes looking earnestly at Miu telling her all she needed to know.

He just can't say the real how out loud, not with the surveillance. Yeah, she shouldn't have really asked in the first place. Anything that could incriminate them any further would be a disadvantage for them.

"But... just so we are on the same page with this heart pounding new development, are we thinking of the same person?" Kokichi asked.

Kokichi pulled a piece of scrap paper for all of them to huddle around as he wrote two initials that told all. Miu and Gonta's eyes widened at the absolute familiarity of those two letters. Smiling and satisfied, Kokichi then tore the paper into unreadable bits before throwing them to the trash.

"How... what...?" Miu asked. How could they all know? When did they all know? Miu just discovered recently but Kokichi and Gonta? And how were they on the same track so easily?

Maybe it was just that with their end goal being the same and gaining the same information, they ended up taking the same path for their results. But with vastly different methods.

Since Miu didn't know how to feel about such a notion, she chose to move on with their problems.

"So, the box..." Miu said, "There's some code on top of it. Any of it familiar to either of you?"

When Kokichi looked at it, he looked thoughtful and contemplative but shook his head all the same, "Hmm~ I wonder what this could mean. The killing game holds more secrets than we thought~"

When Gonta looked at it, his eyes widened in shock and immediately asked Miu, "Where did you find this?"

The urgency in Gonta's voice shocked Miu but she answered all the same, making sure her guard was up so she didn't spill anything important for prying ears, "In the Lab, under the floorboard."

"And what was inside box?" Gonta asked some more, as if he had figured something out. It was no longer surprising to see Gonta making such a face but it still begs the question what on earth did he find out to garner such a reaction.

Miu even wondered whether Gonta could make heads and tails of what stumped Miu as she opened the box and revealed the strange item for all of them to see.

"Am I seeing what I think I'm seeing?" Kokichi asked,  apparently surprised himself for something so unbelievable when Kokichi who could look at unbelievable in the eye faltered a little at this one.

"I know, right? I swear I had to pinch myself and rub my eyes a buncha times to make sure this is the real deal," Miu confirmed.

"A... McDonald's Happy Meal?" Gonta asked, reading the label of the package Miu was holding up.

It was so freaking random that it bordered on idiotic. Imagine finding a secret box and opening up to something like this. Of course, Miu checked inside the meal package after her initial shock faded but all she found was an empty unused burger wrapper, a nugget box and stuffed inside a plastic toy. It did not go over Miu's mind that the toy could very well hide some mechanical tool like spy bugs or something.

The plastic toy was actually a ball that opened up to an animal inside. Apparently, the ball can be opened two sides, so there was one animal in each. If you pressed on the animal, the eyes would glow a different color and make sounds. Miu's cursory inspection did not garner anything out of the ordinary about the children's toy with it's simple mechanisms. She did check whether the mechanisms led to some kind of unknown code but that was what stumped Miu. She was an inventor, not a code cracker.

Sure, Miu was a genius in her own right but why would a possible code hidden in all this stump her? To put it simply, she was not an expert in codes and more often than not, she let her machines do the work for her about anything that didn't much relate to her inventions and other passions. In addition, Miu didn't know enough about the ADR to spot any tells that could help her with this random stuff. She could search on her own but Miu prioritized efficiency and wasn't arrogant enough to believe she didn't need any help when help could very well make a breakthrough with this junk.

Could Kokichi or Gonta turn this junk into treasure?

"Could Gonta take a look?" Gonta asked, surprising Miu that he was the first one to offer instead of Kokichi. Kokichi for his part was surprised as well, and did not let it go by asking:

"Huh, did Gonta find something out about this rando junk?"

"Well... Gonta think so. Gonta not sure, but it familiar. If Gonta right..." Gonta said, stretching out his hand for the box. Miu simply gave the box to Gonta who now examined everything from the box, burger wrapper and plastic toy. For some reason, Gonta was more focused on the burger wrapper, even taking a whiff off it before he frowned.

"Smell like...  vinegar?" Gonta asked.

"What? Give me that," Kokichi said, snatching the wrapper away childishly before smoothing it out and looking toward Miu, "Do you have an iron, Iruma-chan? Or anything hot for that matter?"

"Anything hot? For what?" Miu asked, wondering what was going on as her no-filter mouth decided to spit out the first thing she thought when someone wanted anything hot, "Ah, I get it. You just want something hot to share the body heat you've been getting ever since keying yourself up with Yumeno and Momota last night. There are better ways to let it out, you know? And you shouldn't be doing anything like that when we have more important things to do."

"Says the person who literally made that comment seriously thinking I had that kind of thought process. You just had to go and make that kind of comment, huh, Iruma-chan? Are you sure you don't just have sex for brains, you bimbo?" Kokichi asked, rolling his eyes as he decided that he wasn't getting anything from Miu and started searching that 'something hot' himself.

"Wha- completely untrue! Sure I think of sex, 'coz isn't that a fucking natural part of life, but I can be serious when I want to. If you don't want me to go make assumptions, why don't you explain your actions first then?" Miu countered.

Kokichi snorted, "If you let me explain before going off a tangent, then I will. Have you ever heard of invisible ink?"

"Invisible ink?" Gonta finally asked, after his long silence when he had looked between Miu and Kokichi with a look of wonder and foot forward, probably trying to break up any argument between them if it got too heated, as the peacemaker this gentle giant is. Now, it was unnecessary as Gonta simply looked toward Kokichi in question.

Kokichi smiled, as he tested a few inventions for the heat he needed, for whatever cause... no, for the invisible ink he spoke of and said, "One of the most common ways of making invisible ink is a mixture of vinegar and baking soda as you brush the words on the paper with that concoction and ta-da, an invisible message is made. To uncover it, what one needs is something hot like an iron to reveal the message within."

"Well then, what are we waiting for?" Miu asked, rummaging now through her things and revealing a hot hair iron that she uses to manage her hair at times. If you want to stay a gorgeous girl genius, you gotta keep up with maintaining it.

Soon enough after using that hot iron, brown letters started appearing on the wrapper:

2BRB + 1V-V. Win your prize.

"What the hell?" Miu blurted out, not even making heads or tails of it same as the puzzle that shown itself on the box, Why can't it just be straightforward? What is this, some mystery escape puzzle game?"

"You might be right on the count for this one, Iruma-chan~" Kokichi hummed, "But this is a much better game than that dumb ol' killing game. Solving puzzles while we find clues to escape, it happens to be a game that falls into my expertise. Can you show me that plastic toy?"

Kokichi now stretched out his hand towards Gonta who currently holds that toy with a 'Gimme, gimme' expression. Gonta simply gave it to him, knowing as much as Miu that Kokichi wanted to solve this mystery as much as they do.

Kokichi took out the toy and started examining it before he came across the animals on both sides of the ball that flashed two colors...

"Blue, red... B... R..." Gonta murmured as he saw Kokichi examining the toy. Miu got it immediately too.

"Win your prize... 2BRB... push blue red blue twice, but what the hell does V-V mean anyway?!" Miu asked.

"Watch and learn from the master," Kokichi said, seemingly already having solved it as he started pushing the animals in order... 2 blue, red blue and...

"Red, blue, red...?" Gonta asked, as the toy clicked, popping out the animals and revealing...

"Ah, a chip," Miu said as she took the ball and saw a small red blinking dot inside it wired intricately and needing further examination. She turned towards Kokichi, "How the fuck did you even know that combination?"

Kokichi grinned "V-V. Vice-versa. Where blue becomes red and vice versa. Complicatedly simple, won't you agree?"

"Complicatedly simple? Isn't just complicated?" Gonta asked, apparently confused by Kokichi's word choice, "Why not just give straightforward answer?"

"Why else for people placing anything under puzzles and tricks? Other than making sure the answers don't go to the unworthy, like our dear mastermind Shirogane-san," Kokichi said.

For some reason, Gonta frowned at that but did not say anything. Meanwhile, Miu finally figured out what the chip was for, and she knew why the ADR would want to keep it hidden.

"Yeah, and it's just that we are heck worthy instead. For good reason~" Miu cackled, coming back with the ball where she put both animals back into their respective places, tore away the burger wrapper to not leave any evidence and placed back inside the box.

"That little baby is the ADR's final move, greatly beneficial for us~ All we need is to find the two other missing pieces so work your brain out, Ouma!" Miu declared, waving the box with those cryptic unknown symbols to Kokichi's face.

In response, Kokichi said, "So are you going to tell us what you found out about that chip? Or are you going to leave us in the dark?"

"Oh, like you haven't done that to us before, so let me give you a taste of your medicine~" Miu said, "But how about another time, when..."

Miu implied, once again, about the pesky Nanokumas. Free conversations cannot exist without them, maybe another time where they will use the Bugvac at a more opportune time when they decisively have more important matters to attend to, like quickly solving this puzzle and explaining everything later.

At least Kokichi is smart enough to understand the implications and Gonta, maybe he is smart too or maybe he just knows when to follow along. It was true that Gonta's intelligence had surprised Miu at times but for the most part, Gonta wasn't exactly the sharpest tool in the shed, although in comparison to gorgeous girl genius like Miu and that deceptive trickster Kokichi, anyone wouldn't be smart enough to keep up with both, in more ways than one.

"Ah well, it will always be sweeter getting it out of someone than being spoon fed," Kokichi quipped back easily, before looking at the jumble of letters:

ADR CMB FPT SME

Even with the new revelation about the true value of ADR's chip did not make any of the letters any less confusing to Miu. Even if the letters, CFS, that stood out were noted because of how they were crossed out, it didn't make any damn sense. Miu was certifiably not a code cracker. Mysteries and puzzles could be left to the likes of Shuichi... or Kokichi.

However, once again, it was Gonta who spoke up instead of Kokichi in regards of the box:

"Gonta not sure, but box very familiar... Ah!" Gonta said, having looked at the box for a long time before looking up to both of Miu and Kokichi in determination before beckoning the both of them out.

Miu and Kokichi looked at each other, both thinking the same thing, 'What does Gonta know?'

Did he know all along, or was it a recent discovery was the question. But who the hell would complain when something convenient simply falls on your lap? Included the fact that free conversations do not exist, explanations could wait. All that mattered was knowing who your allies and enemies were, as well as what previous actions and present instincts tell a person. Miu knew what to do:

"Before we go, take these," Miu said, taking up two guns and handing it to them. Kokichi looked at them with sparkling eyes, immediately snatching one for himself and examining it all the way before storing it in his pocket after figuring out where to put it. Gonta was extremely apprehensive in comparison, nervously eying the weapon as he inched away slowly from it.

"Iruma-san..." Gonta finally said, looking up at Miu with eyes filled with worry and a bit of fear, "Why give us weapons?"

"Why not?" Miu asked, shrugging, "Who knows what will happen at this point? Don't worry, they are all non-lethal, except for a yin yang style bear we all know."

"Saying the bear as yin yang is a total lie. That bear's all yang but I get what you mean. But are you guys going to stand here or are we going now?" Kokichi asked.

Gonta seemed to hesitate a little as he decided to look straight into Miu that she returned with the weapon still outstretched towards the entomologist.

An unspoken conversation passed through them, of their experiences, doubts, trusts and partnership. Eventually, as Miu knew Gonta would, he finally took the weapon off her hands and put it inside his jacket.

Miu entrusted a few of her weapons towards Kokichi and Gonta, for their own protection. Their reactions were all she expected out of them with their personalities and although their actions differ greatly, they both told her that they were still the people she could trust as much as she allowed it.

Kokichi not questioning anything out of Miu meant that he wasn't paranoid to doubt Miu of her expertise of all things and if he was not paranoid, that meant he won't fly off a tangent with bad consequences for all of them.

In contrast, Gonta's question about the weapons meant he was still the same old gentle giant averse to the violence these weapons could lead but after finally receiving it without any spoken words spoke volumes of the unwritten trust between them and that reassured Miu.

She needed such reassurances for her own sake. Because if any of them betrayed her... no, Miu rather not think such dark thoughts before her own paranoia acted on them. The VR fiasco taught her as much, but that didn't mean she would ever be truly buddy-buddy with them. One does not attempt to murder a lady and expect her to forget about it. Yes, she still chose to be bitter all this time, but genius as she is, she understood the logical argument of those two being the most useful allies she could ever have. And she continued reassuring herself of that.

"So, let's get going now! We have more mysteries to solve," Kokichi declared.

Miu and Gonta nodded, as Gonta led the way this time around.

At least, with their track record, believing her own reassurances were not difficult at all, and that her decision to involve them at this moment was never a wrong choice. In fact, Miu would later know it would very much be the right choice after all.

***

'Now what else has to be done after this?' Kokichi thought.

Miu's summon had not been entirely useless as knowing what those other two know and are up to would be beneficial. They could try their escape plans and he can try his, except his might not just be an escape plan.

"Nishishi," Kokichi laughed as he traversed around the Academy, with time ticking to the inevitable moment of his plan~

"Why the hell are you laughing like a maniac now?" Miu demanded, "I don't want anyone knowing I am in a company of a lunatic."

"What's wrong with being with a lunatic when you are with a lunatic yourself, Iruma-chan?" Kokichi asked and Miu snapped, the same song and dance of bickering before Gonta stopped it.

"We here," Gonta said, stopping short of the place that shocked both Miu and Kokichi to the core.

As of now, after Miu's startling discovery and Gonta declaring where they need to go, they set off to the Academy with Gonta in tow, as Kokichi wondered whether he could use the ADR's plan for his.

Right now, he felt that might be impossible because...

Why they hell were they standing in front of Gonta's Lab. After the last time they were here, Kokichi and Miu very well hope that it would be the last. Such hopes were immediately dashed at this.

"Why... why are we here?" Miu asked, in a shaky voice that Kokichi did not blame. The unshakeable horror of bugs was enough to give fear of God to those who experienced it. Except for Gonta who loved his bugs no matter what or was just blind of their fear because of his love.

"What we need is in there," Gonta said, gesturing into his Lab before he opened the doors. Miu started stripping... again as if it was some reflex when it came to dealing with bugs but this time, Kokichi stopped her. Twice this has happened, so no one needed a third time. Of course, Kokichi was apprehensive himself but it wasn't everyday Gonta took the lead, so sure of himself. Dismissing leads just because of simple fear wouldn't do. Kokichi summoned all the bravery he had and entered the Lab alongside Gonta, as Kokichi pulled a whimpering Miu in tow.

The first bit of good news was that the bugs were safely in their terrariums and not buzzing about like last time. The second bit of good news was that there stay here might be more peaceful than the previous ones. The apprehension stayed but it wasn't as bad as the last time. No bugs swarmed around them now is already a good thing.

For Gonta himself, he moved about in search of something as he muttered to himself. Before Kokichi or Miu could ask what he was searching for, Gonta finally took out...

"Another chest box!" Miu exclaimed, surprised. Kokichi peered at the same scrawled letters on the box, but different characters crossed out than the previous chest.

ADR CMB FPT SME

That only certain characters are crossed out depending on the chests, but just the patterns was not enough to determine what they truly mean. At least, three letters being crossed out is consistent for the two consecutive chests. Once there was an inkling of what the letters represented or the circumstances behind them, a clearer answer might present itself.

Kokichi looked up to Gonta, "How did you know there was a chest box in your Lab?"

Gonta answered, "Actually, Gonta remembered same chest in Gonta's own Lab. Gonta found it a while ago when in Lab and wanting to read more about bugs from bookshelf. Gonta didn't know what the chest for... until now."

"And why did you not show it to the others? Last time, you would tell everyone what you found, like the mysterious words that appeared in the courtyard. So why hide this?" Kokichi asked.

"Hmm... Gonta didn't think much about it. It didn't seem suspicious to Gonta at the time," Gonta said earnestly, as he opened up the chest box and showed a Rubik's Cube.

"Gonta tried to solve it but cube too hard for Gonta."

"Huh, a Rubik's Cube, huh? Give it here," Miu said suddenly, as she put work into it. Kokichi watched in amusement as she continued fiddling the Rubik's Cube without any luck.

"Wow... next time when you say 'give it here', make sure you can actually do it instead of wasting our time," Kokichi said, snatching the Rubik's cube and correctly matching the colors. Kokichi had a passion for games and dabbled in all types from video games to board games and the Rubik's cube was no exception.

"And this is how you walk your walk instead of being all talk," Kokichi said smugly towards Miu who huffed at him and gave him the stink eye instead. Before Miu could say anything in response, the cube made a click sound where the top part of the cub suddenly opened up like a chest and revealed...

"Another chip?" Miu asked, taking and examining it, "This is no coincidence."

Of course it isn't. Two Labs, two Ultimates, two chest boxes, two chips. But the question is, is that all? After all, those two chest boxes contained these string of letters, same except for the different three letters crossed out in each:

ADR CMB FPT SME

ADR CMB FPT SME

Only the letters 'ADR' are unchanged. Following the pattern of crossed out letters, CFS and BTE, Kokichi concluded there would be a third chest box, with the three following letters crossed out, MPM. Why? The pattern. A string of letters, three each. Except for ADR, one different letter for each three stringed letters were crossed out and in their positions... from there, only these types of questions follow: What do MPM stand for? How about CFS and BTE? And do they relate in anyway to the location of the boxes or anything else?

Even with these questions, Kokichi knew he should use a simple approach for puzzles like these before moving towards a more complicated approach when there are no other options. First, gather everything one knows about these puzzles. Promptly, he looked at Gonta and asked:

"Gonta, where did you first find that chest?" Kokichi asked.

"Inside a terrarium in the bookcase," Gonta said.

"In a terrarium...?" Kokichi asked.

"Gonta don't know why," Gonta shrugged.

But that was enough information for him. He decided to take a jump of logic and make an assumption by connecting all the information about the boxes to the three crossed letters of the box.

CFS - Chest was found in the ADR's Lab under a floorboard.

BTE - Chest was found in Gonta's Lab inside a terrarium.

Now, all he had were these clues to find one Lab, one Ultimate, one chest box and one chip for MPM. So, he started-

"Eureka!" Miu shouted, "I got it. We have one more chip to find and it's in Yumeno's Lab!"

"Wait, what?! How did Iruma-san reach to that conclusion?" Gonta asked, shocked. Kokichi himself was less shocked. This has happened in previous class trials when it came to the problem of 'who', Miu was pretty much right for the wrong reasons. Even if this was not an accusation of a killer, their situation of narrowing down the people who have the last chest box was similar. Now, for the wrong reasons:

"Well, duh. Look at these string of letters, always in threes. And three letters are always crossed out. It's a pattern of threes, so there most definitely would be three chests! And as for the chest being in Yumeno's Lab... look, the ADR chose Gonta as one of the people to keep the chest in his own Lab. Among everyone else in this killing game, the ADR could only hide the last remaining chest with Yumeno, the magic deluded chibi that was as harmless as Gonta before this killing game ever begin, which is when the ADR hid the chests. From first impressions and introductions, Gonta and Yumeno were the most harmless people who could be entrusted with the chests without any funny business! After all, the ADR chosen Gonta so shouldn't it be obvious that Yumeno would be chosen?"

Of course, Kokichi was not disappointed with such reasoning.

"Gonta understand why there third chest out there... Gonta agree. But the chest being with Yumeno doesn't make sense to Gonta. It didn't explain anything."

Exactly Kokichi's thoughts. The possibility of the third chest and the reason behind it was so obvious anyone could figure it out but her deduction about the whereabouts of the last chest were nonsensical, as expected and maybe a bit beyond. However...

"Don't sweat it, Gonta," Kokichi said, already moving towards the door, "It won't hurt us to check Yumeno-chan's Lab and knowing Iurma-chan, she should be right on the money. Let's go."

"Ha, you finally acknowledge my genius," Miu said proudly, following along and making their way towards the Ultimate Magician's Lab.

"Does Ouma-kun really believe Iruma-san that much?" Gonta asked as the follow up, being in the rear and the most hesitant of all.

Ignoring Miu, Kokichi answered Gonta, "I believe in her running gag, Gonta. After all, as we all know, this invention-and-sex for brains bitch somehow makes nonsensical deductions with her accusations of the identities of the killers in past trials and was somehow right all along. It could be a coincidence, but I don't believe that. Guessing the true identities with completely wrong reasons is such a complete joke, but it still happened just like a running gag. Iruma-chan might not be correct but deep down, I think she is. And even if she isn't, that's one Lab we could cross out."

Just like Miu's reasoning, Kokichi's made absolutely no sense whatsoever, in terms of basic common sense and logic. But Kokichi had pretty much thrown away basic common sense after Monokuma, the Monokubs, Exisals, how the Academy opens up new buildings and those off the top executions especially the ghost and killing off one (Seriously, how does that happen?). Instead, Kokichi's reasoning was based on his adaptability with the killing game's mechanics which he felt were incredibly game-like and story-like. He loved to analyze the mechanics and use them as he saw fit.

Of course, it is not even close to understandable to anyone else but himself, so it was unsurprising that a big question mark appeared for Gonta, as he thought things through and said, "Gonta doesn't understand Ouma-kun's reason but Gonta think Ouma-kun right that we can cross out Labs."

"Who the hell are you calling running gag?! And why the hell go so far with invention-and-sex for brains along with the complete joke?! You are as vicious as usual," Miu said after Gonta, not even caring about the illogical argument and taking to the insults which made her turn red. Once again, Kokichi's insults were a turn on for Miu.

Gonta looked between Kokichi and Miu, opting to say nothing since the argument ended there. It could be clearly seen that he was used to it to the point of letting it be. The rest of the walk to Himiko's lab was met with silence, each person now confined in their own thoughts of the next actions they should perform.

'And isn't this the perfect timing? Now, I can...' Kokichi thought.

Kokichi never meant to hide the videos he had discovered from the rest of the KGB until the very end unless he was never shown the right circumstance nor timing. Without either of those, the videos would only prove harmful for all of them because Miu and Gonta would be ill prepared for what's in store there.

The circumstances were right because with the ADR's plot unravelling for the KGB to use and with how Miu and Gonta could go about it... the videos would prove an asset for everything that unfolds for them.

Now, it's the timing that Kokichi thought about, when Miu and Gonta most need it, we're most ready for it. He would only discover that throughout their work together.

When they finally reached Himiko's Lab, Miu, Kokichi and Gonta immediately started their search for the next chest, but Kokichi focused on the letters 'MPM' as he eyed the entire Lab instead of a total blind search that Miu and Gonta were doing.

MPM... M... P... M...

P...

CFS... F... floorboard...

BTE... T... terrarium...

P... P...

Kokichi first thought of the large pot in the Lab before realizing that Himiko will be insulted and scold him by saying it was a cauldron instead for her mana or potions so it couldn't possibly be it! So much for false bottoms being a possibility.

Potions, it is! For anything magical, there could be pigeons but there were only doves in the cage. Luckily, there was a place Himiko kept potions, maybe for mana restoration or whatever that so-called mage needs.

It was at a shelf opposite of the cauldron, near the door. It was filled with what Himiko would call magical apparatus for the purpose of mana or something else magical like.

There were a lot of potions around, that might as well be mumbo jumbo, which Kokichi shifted through. Eventually...

"You found the chest before me?! How the hell?!" Miu asked, as she had been poking through the cage of doves and Gonta had been checking through the box that is used to cut people into half and restoring them in full.

"I'm just smarter than you, Iruma-chan," Kokichi said with a smile as the letters of the chest now reflect the eager eyes roving over it:

ADR CMB FPT SME

MPM... as they rightfully  predicted.

"Gonta just glad that both Iruma-san and Ouma-kun are right about the chest! Iruma-san and Ouma-kun are both so smart!" Gonta said in earnest.

"Well, of course," Miu said, regaining some of her confidence.

"Nishishi, all par the course," Kokichi said with  his usual smug attitude, now opening up the chest to reveal.

"Koff... damn, why?!" Kokichi cursed, when has came out of the chest that had made Miu roar with laughter and Gonta fretted with worry.

"Ouma-kun, are you OK?!" Gonta asked, nearing Kokichi and fanning the gas that came out away from Kokichi and Miu who although laughed, opened the door to let the gas out somewhere. Should he rib her about this kind gesture later? Well, of course not... he could use this better as blackmail later. Of course, if ever he spoke his thoughts out loud, know that this was all a lie.

"At... at least it's not poisonous," Kokichi coughed out the last of the gas and could finally see the contents of the chest.

"Ouma-kun, that joke not funny," Gonta scolded while peering over Kokichi's shoulder to see the contents of the chest. Miu also approached both of them and said:

"So this is the reason you got gassed? Sucks to be you."

It was some kind of spray nozzle, specifically a nozzle for a spray bottle, which was honestly not the reason that he got gassed, most likely a mechanism from the box but it was a representation to me it nevertheless.

"So... what is this spray nozzle hiding?" Kokichi asked to himself as he took it out and examine it. The two chests before it were a Happy Meal and Rubik's cube. They hid things within. It must be the same with the nozzle.

He squeezed the spray nozzle and predictably so... got nothing, or maybe not. Foam came out of the nozzle, the type from shampoo. Looking at the end of the nozzle and saw it was indeed coated with shampoo, bubbles and droplets of water. But why?

In the end, he decided to probe that bit by squeezing the tube and pushing or pulling slightly, something finally dropped out  as Kokichi caught it before it landed on the floor. Wrapped around plastic was of course another chip.

"So the third chip. What the hell is that supposed to be used for?" Miu asked.

"Well, aren't you the inventor, Iruma-chan. Shouldn't you know?" Kokichi asked with a shit eating grin, his usual.

"Course I would, if you let me see what those suckers are made of," Miu said, defending herself quickly as she held out her hand for the last remaining chip. Without hesitation, Kokichi handed the chip to her.

... Wait, since when did he hand something over without hesitation? Shame on him and his criminal principles!

... And since when did he trust them enough to hand over anything important willingly and without fuss?

That's it, the world is ending! Call the Armageddon Prevention squad! Call the Gravity Falls crew! Some crazy mojo is going on!

... Setting aside good material to play around when he can say exactly that in some scenario at later date, Kokichi decided to come to terms with himself. He was trusting Miu and Gonta the same way as he would DICE, definitely not there yet but at least a quarter through. Better than not at all. It was the experiences, huh?

Miu put the chip into her pocket, saying, "I can get these analysed quick, so let's go to the Lab and get it done."

"Huh, you could do that," Kokichi said, thinking a million things before settling for one action, "Or you could watch this totally not suspicious video and then tell me your thoughts."

With this, Kokichi showed them his own Monopad with a USB stuck on it. His finger brushed the on button, teasing the start of a video but not yet.

Miu narrowed her eyes, saying aloud what any sane person would think, "This isn't some kind of prank, right? Why bring something like this up after everything? For what?"

"Because after having such chips, I believe you would need some... context, if you will," Kokichi said, convinced of his conviction now. This was how he would not only bring the duo up to speed but also pry out their remaining secrets that would give him the edge.

After all, this was bigger than anything. There were too many elements with what the ADR had done, with those three chips. Kokichi didn't know what they entail but if it were anything similar with what he and DICE had planned, the video will set them in a better direction with the ADR angle than without. He finally deemed it necessary and with the right timing for this not to screw them over.

Also only because Miu and Gonta were surely holding secrets beyond Kokichi now, after their individual searches and instinct told him along with observations that such secrets weren't going to bear any fruit unless he gave it a... boost. Kokichi was aware of the risks of showing the video to Miu and Gonta, the same one that awaken his own memories but he knew this was the only way to blossom the secrets, get their sweet taste and steal all of them for himself . That was his 'true' evil nature~

A gamble that he only hoped wasn't wrong, with every pro and con measured to this very moment. Kokichi was as spontaneous as he was calculative, call it a flexible move. And it started when Miu snatched away the Monopad as Gonta inched closer. Then, they both watched.

They both had a splitting headache, their eyes widened and...

"This video... does that mean there are ours too? Do you have ours, Ouma-kun?!" Miu demanded.

That did not surprise Kokichi, who knew this question would come, and he had planned to comply, thinking it may be another push to reveal whatever was hidden inside, but...

"Gonta... Gonta know what to do now! Ouma-kun, Iruma-san, Gonta need your help!"

Finally, one of those secrets have been pried out and bloomed beautifully. Exactly as planned.

... He still showed Gonta and Miu their videos afterwards. He was an 'evil good sport' after all, and yes feel free to try and wrap your head around Kokichi's confounding statements about himself once again.

***

After a surprising video that blew Miu and Gonta's mind...

'What should Gonta look for to find out more about Shirogane-san?' Gonta had thought to himself.

He had already looked through Tsumugi's Lab and discovered many things. When Gonta told his intentions to both Kokichi and Miu, the former already revealed that he searched through Tsumugi's room and only found those videos. Then, where else could they find out about Tsumugi? After all, with everything that went with the ADR...

It would also help him find out more about Tsumugi after the info dump of her and Rantaro... and the previous killing game.

After that, Gonta felt like he could understand why she said it was too late, but he will not give up. Maybe he was stubborn that way, after everything that he experienced and after the losses he felt. Was it wrong that he did not want to lose one more, even for the mastermind because of the time he spent together and the camaraderie he felt at the time?

"What are you thinking of doing, Gonta?" Kokichi asked, "It's our turn to be your subordinates, so have us at your beck and call."

"Gonta doesn't really like the word 'subordinate'. Gonta think Ouma-kun and Iruma-san as friends," Gonta said.

"Hmph, even if you say that, it's a completely different story for some of us," Miu said, crossing her arms at the notion of them being friends.

Kokichi cooed, "Aww, is someone being a tsundere?"

"The hell to that?" Miu asked, insulted at the notion, "Will you ever put your brain before your running mouth or is that impossible?"

Kokichi simply laughed at Miu's insult, unaffected by it. Gonta was still never used to Miu and Kokichi's bickering but long since learned that it had been harmless and pretty impossible to stop so he let them be. That didn't mean he missed Miu's implications about their friendship, that Miu might never consider him, or Kokichi for that matter, as a friend. Honestly, Gonta was unsurprised by that.

They might have gone through a lot of things but that doesn't mean their sins can go away and leave them without blemishes that ruin friendships. After the VR fiasco, Gonta was happy enough with this kind of relationship, glad to be of use, to do something and now have, if not friends then companions or allies, to help him out when he needs them. And for that, Gonta would always be grateful, just like now.

Now, where they would unlock the secrets of this killing game, through the mastermind, Tsumugi Shirogane. The video changed Gonta's entire perspective about his approach of handling the mastermind's case, from doing it himself out of fear that if Miu and Kokichi were to find out, they would disapprove and meddle in a bad way to teamwork now when his fears are truthfully all for naught when the video revealed to him something else that convinced him as such.

Context indeed, the video gave to Gonta and Miu, not only for the ADR if the memories were proven correct, and Gonta was pretty sure they were, but also to many other things, including themselves and the other people stuck in this killing game.

Especially Tsumugi, at least that was what Gonta thought.

"Where do you think best place to find out more about Shirogane-san? Still so many questions about her," Gonta decided to ask both Kokichi and Miu.

"How 'bout the Ultimate Detective's Lab?" Kokichi asked with a smile.

"Why the Detective's Lab?"Miu asked.

"Why else than the 52nd killing game? You don't think we won't find any case files about that in a detective's Lab. Won't hurt to try," Kokichi said smoothly.

Gonta was not entirely sure whether there would be anything like those case files in the Detective's Lab, but he couldn't find out where else exactly could he find out about Tsumugi since both her Lab and room are already searched. At the very least, Gonta choose to believe that Kokichi did not lie about Tsumugi's room... after asking repeatedly for confirmation since Gonta long since learned, through a painful way, that a liar's word cannot be trusted wholeheartedly. For good measure, Gonta had asked the bugs secretly about their surveillance with Kokichi and proved his words. ... He should have actually done that in the first place instead of repeatedly asking. Honestly, it just slipped his mind.

In the end, they made their way through the Ultimate Detective's Lab as Kokichi dramatically opened the double doors open, only for his eyes to widen in shock for a brief moment before a mischievous smirk graced his face and said, "Oh, if it isn't Momota-chan, what's up?"

"Hey, Ouma, that you?" Kaito, as Gonta and Miu both peered inside to see him sorting out through a box of case files and looking up when the doors burst open. Kaito, likewise, also noticed Miu and Gonta and gave them the same smile he gave Kokichi.

"Iruma, Gonta, good to see you too. So you three are here together, didn't expect such a group. What brings you here? Do you need something with Shuichi or are you here in the Lab for some business?" Kaito asked.

Gonta immediately sensed something off with Kaito's cheeriness. It's simply his intuition but it never lied to Gonta and he won't start doubting it now. His intuition couldn't accurately pinpoint the wrongness within Kaito but he suspected it was the fact he was hiding something.

Now that Gonta thought about it, only Maki, Himiko and Kiibo acted upon their motives, two in murder and one in staying away. With the exception of Tsumugi, the mastermind and thus have no need for motives to kill and the KGB who were not stupid to act upon something they completely know false, both Kaito and Shuichi were the only ones Gonta was not sure was acting upon their motives. The motives have varied and not only aiming to give incentive to murder, as evidenced by Kiibo with Miu as he only acted to stay away in fear of activating possible genocide but possibly distancing people or something that could indirectly lead to murder. Not that Gonta was smart enough to figure out how that was possible. Because of that, it is entirely possible that neither Kaito nor Shuichi's motives are uninvolved with murder but could indirectly lead to it, but something else... something that somehow made Kaito investigate case files in Shuichi's Lab for some reason. And that some reason might be something that he was hiding.

"What are you doing here, Momota? Saihara I would understand, 'coz it's his Lab after all. But you, Momota?" Miu narrowed her eyes, making a somewhat good point.

"And how about you guys?" Kaito asked, going immediately for offense against the claim, "Like you said Iruma, Shuichi I would understand but what are you guys doing here?"

Miu flustered against the offense, apparently not thinking that he would attack her so soon and in that split second, Kokichi gave a small sigh and jumped in the fray with him saying:

"Nishishi, so naive Momota-chan. Maybe we are all here for the same thing?" Kokichi suggested, gesturing towards the file that Kaito had been in the middle of as well as the boxes of case files surrounding him, "If that's the case, why don't we help each other, since we are after the same thing."

For some reason, Gonta doubted that Kaito would be after the same thing, since what the KGB are finding is directly linked to the mastermind, Tsumugi Shirogane and if it was Kaito, who found out about the identity of the mastermind, he would have loudly declare to everyone else of such a discovery. Truthfully, that was what Gonta would have done, if he wasn't bound by secrecy and circumstances.

Yet, Kaito's eyes and mouth were open wide as it looked like for a brief moment, he almost believe in Kokichi's words and said:

"Wait, you know- wait a second! That's a lie, Ouma! I am not going to fall for the same thing again," Kaito said with narrowed eyes.

'The same thing again' would most likely be falling for Kokichi's lies and tricks, which many of them have pretty much always fallen for it first time around without even knowing it.

Kaito's eyes now roved through all three of them before he settled on Kokichi, and said, "So, what are you doing here, since I am pretty sure that we are after very different things here?"

"Why should we tell you what we are up to when you won't tell us about it? It's basic courtesy to tell people what you are doing when you are asking the same thing. Is it because we don't know, since you thought we know something you may have recently been privy to? Know something that made you come here, reading through case files in Saihara-chan's Lab of all things. Case files, about murder and in our situation... nishishi, in our situation, it could only be prying something out of our dear friends here. Do you suspect Saihara-chan hiding something, or is there something in the case files that you suspect hide something about this very killing game?"

Kaito pursed his lips, refusing to answer any of those questions since he was already wary of Kokichi and prying any answers out of him for Kokichi to twist. Gonta noted that Kokichi thought Kaito suspected Shuichi and thought about the motives, which always targeted a person such as Gonta against Maki, Maki against Kokichi, Kiibo against Miu, Himiko against Kaito and so on. Could it be the motive decided to target Shuichi for Kaito?

But it was too early for such assumptions, and Gonta noted the stalemate between all of them. Gonta, your general everyday peacemaker, stepped in and broke the stalemate with a few simple words:

"Gonta think nothing can be done if stare each other all day. How about we do our own thing?"

"... What?" Kaito asked, a sentiment shared with the rest that could only look at Gonta blankly. Gonta continued on with his explanation:

"Momota-kun want to look for his own things and we also want to look for our own things in Saihara-kun's Lab. But we get nothing done if we just ask what other doing when we can just do our own thing."

It took a moment for all of them to process Gonta's words before someone spoke out in response:

"I don't see anything wrong with that," Kaito said, jumping to Gonta's suggestion immediately, "So what are you looking for? After all, I left the Lab a little bit in a mess so it's better to ask me than trying to look for whatever you want to find."

And then proceeds to suggest something that goes against Gonta's suggestion. Kokichi answered:

"Nishishi, nice try, Momota-chan. Mind your own business as we steal the poisons in the Detective's Lab for world domination."

"That is obviously a lie," Kaito said, as he finally looked back to the case file he was holding and continued, "Fine, fine, I will mind my own business. Can't blame a man wanting to trick the trickster once in a while."

"Nishishi, not in a million years or maybe an eternity, Momota-chan~" Kokichi said.

Hmm... was Kaito surprisingly petty, or was that just Gonta? Or a once in a while playful side Kaito had never shown until now, but it feels like Kaito and Gonta didn't sense anything wrong within. Maybe Kaito was glad that they stopped probing whatever Kaito was hiding. ... It might be dire.

However, Gonta felt he did not have the luxury to waste time into that in comparison to what he actually planned to do now. Sure, the motives are important but so is Tsumugi's motives. Especially with the case of the videos that revealed more about themselves, the ADR and killing game that had helped them open their eyes to paths they could otherwise not seen without, whatever Kaito was up to had no choice but to be a backburner until proven otherwise, like some premediated murder.

Gonta would make sure to set his bugs on Kaito.

Eventually, the KGB had riffled through the case files that Kaito set aside, looking for any clues about the 52nd killing game. Although Kaito had sent curious glances their way, he was more focused on his own thing. The trio whispered to each other as they worked.

"Nishishi, who had expected Momota-chan to be up to something sus himself? And I thought he wouldn't be the type for it after all his preaching during Yumeno-chan's murder attempt, but that's a hypocrite for you." Kokichi said.

"Did you seriously say sus?" Miu asked, for some reason only focusing on that part.

"Gonta surprised too, but Gonta think we should have expected it. Because of motives and to borrow Ouma-kun's words, motives are sus," Gonta said, not really sure what this 'sus' means but getting the feeling it describes Kaito's suspicious actions perfectly... wait, suspicious... sus... oh.

"Et tu, Gonta?" Miu said, before adding, "But yeah I agree anyway. This has to do with the motives, but what can we do right now? We are s'posed to find out more 'bout Shitogane after all that vid bizz."

And no one argued against such a fact, as all present knew how true it was. But it didn't stop Gonta's thoughts, at least from going back to Kaito when he should be focused about Tsumugi, as the KGB kept looking over case files. Premediated murder was unfortunately not off the table as long as the killing game still existed, even if the suspect is Kaito, an almost victim himself. However, if you remember the fact that Gonta of all people almost became a killer, really anything is possible.

Even now, the motives are still going wrong. True, there's no basis that Kaito's actions are driven by the motives but at the same time, there was no basis that Kaito's actions are not driven by motives. So it's a total 50-50 and motives are more likely than not and-

"So it was fucking true?!" Kaito suddenly shouted out, which shook Gonta off his thoughts and made everyone of the KGB looked up to a now flustered Kaito who immediately remembered he was not alone and tried to cover up before-

"Yoink, I will take that," Kokichi said, ever a man of action and before anyone even knew, having snuck up on Kaito and snatched up the case file Kaito had been holding and certainly the reason for his outburst.

"Wait-" Kaito said, trying to snatch back the case file from Kokichi, who in turn was quicker on his feet as he dodged Kaito's attempt. Kokichi stuck out his tongue.

"Nishishi, no way I'm gonna wait when someone says so. Now, time to look at what had gotten Momota-chan so shock. Maybe he finally found out ghosts are real?" Kokichi teased, getting a shudder from Kaito at the very mention of ghosts.

Yet,  Kaito stood firm, saying, "St- stop that, there's no such thing as ghosts. And give me back that file, Ouma. I thought we had an understanding back when we talked out, damn it."

Gonta thought it had something to do with Himiko's attempted murder, because while they were... tangled up, the two did talk a lot... to the point Miu made some Miu jokes as a reaction. So understanding was a good word to the conclusion of that event.

"Nishishi, I'm a liar. An understanding with a liar means nothing~" Kokichi said.

"Damn you, Ouma, an ass through and through," Kaito muttered bitterly as he tried to continue snatching away the file while Kokichi had opened it up and read...

"What the hell?" Kokichi asked, and threw it to Miu who was a ways away as she fumbled the file which caused some photos attached to it slip by and Gonta in turn collected them up. When he did, Gonta's eyes blew wide as he saw...

There was a picture of a purple haired woman with green eyes. She looked rugged and rough, but what stood out Gonta the most was that she had a certain resemblance to Kaito. Not only that, there was a pink smeared cross on her picture. Miu had also seen the photo after reading through the file as if confirming something, then looking at the file again before finally uttering:

"Chika Momota?"

Kaito looked a little defeated before he sighed and said, "... My mother. I... I never knew my parents. Ever since I can remember, I have been raised by my grandparents. Imagine when seeing that my own mother was, in some way, involved with this sick killing game. Funny to think that there had only been three before us... or that it had been only killing games that Monokuma ran that are deadly."

"In some way? Something other than the killing games that Monokuma ran that are deadly?" Gonta asked, confused by what Kaito had said but suddenly understood when Miu wordlessly handed him the file.

Gonta's eyes blew wide open when he read the file. It was titled with 'UDG: Hit List - Chika Momota. What caught his eyes further was that  in big bold red letters, it read: Target - DEAD.

"UDG..." Gonta said aloud, the memories from that video also included the UDG, because just like the killing games...

"And to think I saw a poster about 'Ultra Despair Girls 2' in the AV room, when it is actually related  to something like this. UDG... for such things to still be going on until now..." Kaito said in disgust.

UDG, a short form of Ultra Despair Girls. Similar to the killing games that have been run by Monokuma, they have been continuing on until present moment. Due to the authentic memories he gotten back thanks to the video, he had information about it, but how did Kaito... wait, the motives? But why?

"Damn cult," Kaito continued cursing before he sighed and laughed. Then, he reached his hand out for the case file, asking, "Can I have that back? I haven't finished reading it."

There was a lot of things Gonta wanted to say to Kaito, for he could feel the grief washing over him for the loss of a mother he never gotten to know, but Gonta also knew words do not matter in this scenario. There are times when words are unneeded, and thus, Gonta simply handed the file back over without a word.

"That... was certainly something," Kokichi said quietly once Kaito was out of earshot, smiling despite the previous heavy atmosphere.

Of course, Gonta had to ask, "What does Ouma-kun find so funny?"

"Hmm... maybe new blackmail material, or simply new ideas~" Kokichi said.

Gonta shook his head in exasperation, before he looked back at Kaito, who was still roving over the UDG case file, since apparently, any case of murder is filed in the Detective's Lab. If that was the case, maybe they will find out about that case...

But the UDG, Kaito's mother, the fact that he somehow got this information and cursed the cult meaning he still believed the narrative of this killing game. Him knowing it now of all times, means motive. And motive means something bad.

Well, the KGB never caught a break on that front anyway. Gonta decided he should add more bugs to the surveillance, so if Kaito does something stupid, the swarm would be more effective. Until then...

"Guys, look here," Miu shouted, shortly after Kaito had left when he gotten all the information about that case file he needed to know and another one. Gonta wasn't sure what was in another one, but something bad. Kaito...

Now, Gonta and Kokichi hovered over Miu, who was holding a folder of certain case files, with...

"The same pictures as in Amami-kun's Lab..." Gonta muttered, "And Shirogane-san's pictures."

For the portraits of Rantaro's Lab, the images are blurred as well as crossed out so it was actually hard to distinguish any features except for gender and hairstyle. However, with Tsumugi's pictures in the Lab, Gonta instinctively knew they were the people same as the portraits in Rantaro's Lab, which from vague turned out to high definition. So it was mostly thanks to Tsumugi's pictures that Gonta could immediately tell.

"So there really is information about Amami-chan's killing game in there. What kind of dirty secrets could they be hiding, nishishi~" Kokichi said.

However, there were not much dirty secrets to be found, what with the case files only described mundane things, with victim, killer and murder weapon. At times, there were clues and the words from suspects, with their names unknown that contributed to the case but unfortunately, nothing deeper could be found from there. Until...

"Case file: #4..." Gonta muttered out loud, as they had seen so far 3 case files, numbered from 1 to 3 and with the third one, a double murder. And in case 4...

"Victim: Tsu- redacted, huh? Murder weapon: Arson. And killer... suicide. That's an interesting case file, to say the least," Kokichi commented, "And even the picture, no one could tell who the victim was."

At the very least, it confirmed the pictures for Gonta, because it was the exact same picture that Gonta had seen in Tsumugi's Lab. However, the case files did not end with the fourth, a final one laid before them. And it read the most surprising thing:

A victim being killed by falling from a high building, but there was an additional note of the killer's words at being caught that stood out from the rest:

"'IT WASN'T ME! IT WAS THAT BITCH, MARIKO AKAMATSU'?" Miu said aloud, "I know Gonta said that Bakamatsu had a twin, but Mariko... Akamatsu... and that she..." 

Gonta could not wrap his head around it either, but mostly because of the fact that there were two girls at that bathtub, Tsumugi and Mariko, and only one of them made it out alive.

"Is it... is it really possible that Shirogane-san wasn't Shirogane-san but..." Gonta muttered.

But Kaede's twin, dressed up as Tsumugi? If that was the case, then it made the fact that Kaede got wrongfully executed even more painful, if it was done by her own sister. It was too much for Gonta to wrap his head around, not even believing it himself. The mystery still grows strong.

"Oh, so this was how their killing game went? I see... I see..." Kokichi said, smiling on contrary to the confused Miu and Gonta, "So unnecessarily complicated but pretty good blackmail anyway... and pretty elementary."

"Elementary?!" Miu shouted, as if she disbelieved her ears. Gonta did too, as Miu continued saying, "What the heck is elementary about all this crazy shit?"

"When you remove everything impossible, no matter how improbable, is the truth," Kokichi said, referencing Sherlock Holmes which Gonta had read a little because he wanted to understand gentlemen better and what better than a gentleman detective.

"So, what did you find out exactly, Holmes?" Miu asked, her eyes narrowed. And Gonta waited with bated breath, once again glad that his companions were so smart. Because if it was just him, he would probably figure out less.

That meant he definitely made the right choice roping Miu and Kokichi into finding out more about the mastermind. There were so many things to tie up, but slowly and bit by bit, Gonta knew, they were getting tied up. As the path of discovery laid before them.

And they can only move forward.

Chapter Text

All the cards were on the table, but now what? That's exactly what Miu felt when Kokichi casually showed them the videos that revealed fucking everything, and then Gonta revealed that he was working on Tsumugi Shirogane, about why she was the mastermind and if he could bring her to their side. And then, they figured out the 52nd killing game, which not only Rantaro belonged to but Tsumugi as well... Tsumugi and Kaede's twin sister, Mariko Akamatsu. And the cases that revolved around the two girls. It was an adequate summary of what the heck happened before this. And now they were at the peak of their fast paced and stunning discoveries.

"Do you understand now?" Kokichi asked, when he explained the deal about Rantaro's killing game, along with the questions they had, about Tsumugi Shirogane and Mariko Akamatsu. The answer was beyond any reason:

Tsumugi Shirogane had killed Mariko Akamatsu in that bathtub and had cosplayed as Mariko Akamatsu around that time to hide her crime, and threw off everything to somehow make the crime ruled off as suicide which was how Tsumugi survived until now as well as the others since somehow even Monokuma back then believed in the notion of suicide.

Fast forwarding to the finale, it was more than possible that Tsumugi had finally been discovered of her crimes, by Rantaro which might explain the possible need of vengeance and the self-proclaimed allergy called cospox which was more than likely a condition induced by trauma. When Tsumugi was finally outed, she was somehow made to mastermind the next game as herself while Rantaro became the survivor, pitting the two against each other once again.

Of course, it was all speculation, far away from solid with many lingering questions but a feasible possibility that can serve as a base and striking Miu and Gonta speechless, to say the least. Miu put it in the easiest way possible:

"The fuck?"

"Gonta... Gonta don't know what to believe anymore," Gonta said, clutching his head in utter confusion.

Kokichi gave a small smile, "Eh... it's just a theory with facts in hand. The only thing to confirm a theory is to gather more facts that confirm or deny a theory. So there is only one thing to do."

"Go to Akamatsu's Lab, or her room?" Miu asked.

"Ding ding ding, you got it in one," Kokichi said, "So with that said, I will pick my way to Akamatsu-chan's room and you guys go to her Lab~"

"Wait, Gonta no allow that. Iruma-san should be one to go to Akamatsu-san's room," Gonta immediately protested.

"Wait, why Iruma-chan?" Kokichi asked at the odd protest, tilting his head with the big question mark in place.

"Yeah, why me? I mean, wouldn't it be better for either of you guys to go to Akamatsu's room. Imagine just going to a girl's room, maybe you will discover something interesting that will give you a good turn on, gyahahaha."

Kokichi smiled cutely at Miu, more cutting than any expression he ever shown her and said sweetly, "Only people like you would only think that a turn on is all that important in the midst of all these serious things."

Instead of falling back, Miu had a quip ready for it and laughed, "Ha, 'coz what kinda guy wouldn't feel excited going to a gal's room and did a little... something-something there unless your gay, of course. Wait, Ouma... no... but it does... Ouma, you are actually-"

"And stop right there," Kokichi said after Miu was about to confirm one theory about Kokichi that suddenly made a lot of sense to her, "How dare you start insinuating something you are not supposed to insinuate? And by the way, may it be a mystery for anyone hearing in on this because I love to leave them wondering~"

Kokichi proceeded to wink at no particular person out of nowhere that weirded Miu out, because if he were some kinda robot, or they were in some kinda simulation, that would mean he glitched out somehow. But Miu, pushing those thoughts aside, said what was obvious to her, "And who the hell would care about you being- eek! A- about what I thought about you. Just get out of the damn closet already."

Kokichi had stare at Miu evilly that prompted a little scream from her before he stuck out his tongue, "Well, who else than the people out there, from Kokichi Ouma casually breaking the fourth wall because I always wanted to do that and to give the world out there another message since might as well: Fuck you and your twisted obsessions. I hope you all die in hell."

'That was very out there,' Miu thought, wondering why Kokichi would go off such a tangent before 'realising' what he was really trying to do. It was all so simple now, in Miu's mind, that what eccentric thing Kokichi had just done might not be eccentric at all, but a calculated move simply recently figured out in the spur of the moment that could get them out of here. Because...

"Oh yeah, fuck the audience! Woo, I always wanted to say that! I could have just casually broken that whatever fourth wall all along instead of cursing in my own thoughts. Good job for figuring that out, Ouma. Now, let's tell them all about all the cruel things they have done to us and insult all of them 'til they cry so they would have to get us outta here if they don't want to hear anymore dirty things from this gorgeous girl genius. Like, you can shove your eyes-"

"Stop, stop, stop," Gonta said, preventing once again from any PG-13 and censor-worthy talk from even getting out of Miu's lips. A downer, in Miu's opinion but mostly out of his naive innocence.

"Gonta will never understand why you two sometimes stop being serious and always do something else that Gonta don't understand," Gonta said, before continuing, "Because there more important thing than, um... breaking fourth wall and talking to audience."

"What, I thought Ouma had a pretty good idea there. No one likes to be put down, badmouthed or insulted even in the best of days so if we gave the audience enough smackdown to the point they cry, they might not be able to take it anymore to get us outta here. After all, they can basically hear us anywhere, anytime so why the heck not?"

"Because maybe... just maybe, you could have opened new doors for them just like how that door was opened for you already, you easily turned on masochistic whore. And my casual fourth wall break was just messing around. 'Coz did you seriously think that just pissing off the audience or whoever else was watching us would let us go as easily as that?" Kokichi asked.

Miu flinched as she said, "H-hey, you will never know until you try. You hear that, all you guys out there 'coz if you don't let us out right now, you can hear from my pu-"

"Iruma-san," Gonta interrupted once again, ever the censurer to Miu's more... crass way of speaking.

"Gonta don't think this will work. If it were Gonta, Gonta would just stop watching anything rude and ignore it. Wouldn't be more likely that they ignore us too?"

"Wha- what, but they can't ignore this gorgeous girl genius!" Miu protested.

"Anyway, if we are all done here, I am going to Akamatsu-chan's room. It's not like we have time to spare although that was a nice comedy gag to take a break with. But it shows there ain't no easy way out, so you guys better not slack off any findings with Akamatsu-chan's Lab~"  Kokichi said, first yawning and completely ignoring Miu's protest as if he were bored and then scampered off to Kaede's room.

"Wait, Ouma-kun!" Gonta cried out, "But it not gentlemanly for guy to dig around girl's room alone! Let Iruma-san do it!"

But Kokichi ignored all that, as he scampered off to Kaede's room. With nothing left to do about it, Gonta simply made his way to Kaede's Lab with Miu in the rear as well as deep thought.

Because breaking the fourth wall seemed such an easy way out, and yet Gonta and Kokichi shot it down quite hard with such an easy way being too good to be true to work, even when it was the latter who had a hand in that idea. It also made Miu thought about the dilemna that she had ever since the video, wanting an easy way out of this killing game after having so many cards on the table, maybe all of them as Miu felt it so.

Miu wished that she could use the easy way out. Truthfully, with each revelation she had of this killing game, the more desperate she became to get out of it. Time ticked and they weren't any closer to finding a tangible way out of here but simply many mysteries in connection with the killing game to solve.

But mysteries won't get them out of here, if Miu were honest. And yet they were pursing it all the same. It was such bullshit, especially after the videos. They knew everything they needed now for escape, so why... Miu had wondered, did they bother with Tsumugi Shirogane and her previous killing game? Leverage? Blackmail? That maybe, just maybe they could get more cards on the deck than what she considered as all of them yet.

It was only because of such possibilities that she stuck on this when she could have gone off on her own by now to check out the chips. Miu also did not want to be left out of the loop and thus, she now followed Gonta as they stood before the Ultimate Pianist's Lab where Miu finally broke out of her thoughts.

Maybe, in the end, nothing was easy. The long way had to be taken, and where they would be taken, Miu had no idea but she knew she would commit to it as long as she couldn't see any deadly risks ahead of them. The kind that would harm more than benefit.

She hoped it wasn't for vain, because Miu felt... definitely knew, that they were so close. So she will keep going on, as Gonta opened the double doors of the Ultimate Pianist's Lab...

... to see Shuichi inside, having sat down on the piano bench and fingers poised to play the grand piano before him.

Miu's mouth couldn't close from shock, but for a different reason than 'What, Shyhara can play the piano, all boss just sitting there and getting ready?' The real reason was obviously, 'What, first we see Ahomota in Shyhara's Lab and now we see Shyhara in Bakamatsu's Lab. What the hell is this?'

Coincidence... or something like Kaito. It didn't escape the gorgeous girl genius' notice that out of all the people in this Academy, only Shuichi and Kaito have yet acted on their motives through process of elimination when all is said and done.

Acting on motives based on the fake-ass story of thee Gofer Project, cult and other BS. After all, Kaito believes that the cult had initiated the killing games and the UDG that killed his mom. Undoubtedly, as her golden brain worked out all the pieces, that definitely has to do with their ongoing, sometimes forgotten, motive. So how about Shuichi here?

... Then again, as she suddenly remembered that good piece of information about Shuichi, he might be here just because he used to simp over Kaede and just be here to remember Kaede all over again.

'Yeah, that sounds like Simphara but still...' Miu thought, as she had been thinking a mile a second while Shuichi had been equally shell shocked at their appearance, his fingers having halted their descent to the piano's keys and simply staring at them.

The moment was broken by Gonta, before Miu had enough wits about her, considering her massive thought dump, to make some quip towards Shuichi about Kaede and stuff.

"Saihara-kun, what are you doing here?" Gonta asked politely.

"... I just wanted to play the piano," Shuichi said, before saying nothing more, as if he didn't know what to say.

"Ah, did Akamatsu-san teach you about that, Saihara-kun?" Gonta asked, a little curious on his hand, maybe keeping the conversation going just so things couldn't get awkward. What did Miu know? As those two were calmly conversing in this surprising moment, Miu decided to slink out of the periphery of the two and search the Lab.

... Sometimes Miu had forgotten that Shuichi was a detective, someone perspective, due to his simp overload in Miu's absolutely 'perfect' (biased) opinion or otherwise she wouldn't have thought for a second that she could get away from Shuichi.

Of course, the detective noticed as his attention now turned towards Miu and stopping the conversation between Gonta immediately before asking:

"Iruma-san, what are you doing?"

OK... what excuse would she give? Come on, golden brain, think!

"I... I was just leaving, yeah. I mean, why the heck do I want to stay longer for such a sappy moment? Yeesh, the atmosphere."

With that, Shuichi looked on towards Miu, expecting her to leave, but she can't. Because she hadn't even explore anywhere in the Lab and was unwilling to leave empty-handed. Goddamnit, why did her golden brain fail her at this moment? In the golden brain's defense, it wasn't exactly the best at quick time events. It was usually a hit or miss. And she had thought she was on a roll...

Shuichi also noticed Miu's hesitancy and finally decided to get up from the piano before approaching her, and now asked, "So you are not going to leave Iruma-san? Does that mean you need to do something in Akamatsu-san's Lab? If that's the case, why did you hide it? Unless-"

"I'm hiding absolutely nothing! You can't prove it!" Miu immediately shouted, sensing she was in immediate anger but probably wasn't helping matters with her absolutely quick denial which is 100% a telltale sign that she was hiding something.

Because Shuichi seemed not to believe in her at all, as she just stared at her... judgmentally.

And Miu felt she might break down from that stare... pathetically.

Miu can't help but think by then, 'Well, this is going great.'

It made her wish that Kokichi could just barge in there like the time with Motherkuma (maybe  this time in Kaede's bra, Miu thought crudely as she remembered unpredictable wardrobe change with the robe when he barged in and thought he may have another wardrobe change again, who knows). But that wasn't going to happen anytime soon. In fact, she was 100% sure he was laughing at them. She can hear it through her comms that she left on to know what Kokichi might be up to and he to them as well. He was definitely enjoying this, that sadistic drama queen.

Miu reviewed her options and decided that violence was the only way to solve problems. She seriously didn't know how to talk this one out so thank God she had the taser, and then she might have to bring him back to her Lab for that memory erasure invention so he could forget his encounter with Miu and Gonta once they finished searching here and also the fact that the invention still required it's first test subject... Miu was still an inventor at heart no matter the situation.

Unluckily, Gonta noticed Miu going for the taser by a brief look when she 'discreetly' took it out of the pocket and immediately stepped ahead as if trying to block her view from Shuichi as well as taking control of the situation before Miu would probably do some 'unspeakable' acts.

"Wait, Gonta and Iruma-san went to Akamatsu-san's Lab for a reason, a secret."

And unfortunately, Gonta helped... disastrously. Because...

Shuichi narrowed his eyes at that, and to Miu's knowledge of detectives, it was practically their job to uncover secrets so she won't be surprised if Shuichi would walk into that one. And of course, he did.

"A secret? That has to do with Akamatsu-san? Or something else?" Shuichi spoke to no one in particular as he was in deep thought before he spoke directly to Gonta this time.

"Can I join you guys on this one? If it has something to do with Akamatsu-san, I want in."

Miu inwardly groaned, but said something scathing and discouraging to Shuichi, "It is a secret for a reason. If you don't know it, that means you cannot be in it."

Shuichi was shocked at those words directed to him but kept his cool and prepare his argument against such discouraging words.

"Oh, and why do you know it then?" Shuichi asked, "You either know a secret when the person in question told you or you discovered it on your own. I am inclined to believe it's the latter."

"And why is that, hotshot? What proof do you even have, dick-tective?" Miu asked, her insulting motor mouth working it's magic once again. But Shuichi seemed unfazed by it, probably somewhat used to it after Miu had done it too many times to count for all of them.

"I do not have proof. It is only my speculation," Shuichi said, "But the possible person in question who could possibly give you a secret that had you coming to Akamatsu-san's Lab is Akamatsu-san herself. Logically, even if she did share a secret with both of you, why wait so long to figure out Akamatsu-san's secret? The only time she could have told her secret was... before she died, and you two had more than enough time to explore this Lab but did not until now."

"The other person in question to give you any kind of secret is Monokuma himself, who knows the ins and outs of this Academy, but I personally don't find any merit in trusting a word that bear says and leading to a wild goose chase. If it was just one of you, maybe the wild goose chase would be something more... sinister but since it is the both of you and in accordance to the killing game rules about first come first serve, then it is more likely a wild goose chase... prompted by a bear we all distrust. That seems unlikely, doesn't it?"

"And then we come to discovering the secret, which is the more likely than being told about it," Shuichi said, on a roll now, "Which would make much more sense if you discovered it more recently, and somehow very urgent that even when I am here, you didn't back out and come back later when I would no longer be here."

"So what will you two do now? If it really is urgent, then do you really want to stall like this? Or stop wasting time and let me in?"

"Wha-" Miu could only said, now shocked at the words that came out of the detective's mouth. Did Shuichi... that simp and meek detective really...?

"Did... did Ouma-kun do something to you, Saihara-kun?" Gonta finally tentatively asked, equally disbelieving of what Shuichi had said, or subtly pressured them into. To let him in or he would just delay what they need to do further. The logic made sense, and yet... it was a move that would far fit Kokichi better than Shuichi, undoubtedly. What in heck happened?

"Woo, did not see that coming. You go, Saihara-chan~ And what the hell is with everyone accusing me when things go loco?"

Miu heard Kokichi say over the comms, and he chose to root for Shuichi of all things?! Wasn't he supposed to be on Miu and Gonta's side? And as for the last part, the straight man answer was 'Hand over heart and think it reeeal good.'

Then, Miu broke out of her thoughts when she heard Shuichi's answer to Gonta's question:

"Please stop dodging the question," Shuichi said, completely ignoring Gonta's own question leaving both of them to wonder, "Are you so sure you want to waste your time?"

Unfortunately, Miu and Gonta did not want to waste their time so the obvious answer was yes. But it was something that could not be regretted, because it was through Shuichi that they found something.

What they found... pretty much blew everything out of the water. Miu now realised that the KGB might be taking the long way but verifying mysteries and discovering new things... maybe mysteries will get them out of here.

After all, as Miu put it pretty simply the moment they realised the importance of their discovery:

Holy shit.

***

"Come on, let's go!" Kokichi shouted a while later after the trio's search about Kaede Akamatsu, now leading Gonta and Miu to Kiyo's Lab.

"Why Kiyo-kun's Lab, Ouma-kun?" Gonta asked, tilting his head in confusion.

"Nishishi, after Akamatsu-chan's Lab, which I wish I was there to see, why won't there be anything interesting in any of the Labs? But it depends on the owner of the Lab. So, if we list out the most interesting owner, who else but our resident dead serial killer, Kiyo-chan," Kokichi said.

"But would it be fucking relevant?" Miu asked, not buying into what she must have thought as Kokichi's BS. If that was the case, how rude. His BS had standards too.

"Oh, what other relevance than finding out deeper about this Academy. The Labs seem to hide more than meets the eye. Let's go to the most interesting Lab and see if we struck gold. If Akamatsu-san's Lab opened up proof, why not this one?"

"But there proof, Ouma-kun?" Gonta now asked, "Proof that Kiyo-kun's Lab has something like Akanatsu-san's?"

"Yeah, after what happened in Bakamatsu's Lab, what the hell could top that off?" Miu demanded.

What Miu, Gonta and Shuichi discovered from Kaede's Ultimate Lab was...

He already knew about the duo plus Shuichi had been searching through the Lab. All he heard was from Shuichi about something like 'This hairpin...' before a click and...

"A bouquet of jasmines surrounded by... maple leaves?" Gonta asked aloud, before some footsteps and...

"What was that about, what... what?! 'In loving memory of Mariko Akamatsu'. Was... Mariko-san Akamatsu-san's... twin?"

"How the fuck would you have known that Bakamatsu had a twin? This 'Mariko Akamatsu' could have been like Bakamatsu's mom or freaking relative for all we know," Miu had countered.

There was silence, as if Shuichi had blatantly ignored the question.

"Hey hey hey, don't ignore this gorgeous genius girl's question, yanno? For a detective, you are deciding to act hella sus on us now, huh?"

"Did Iruma-san say sus?" Gonta asked.

"And what's wrong with that? It's a free country, a free country where sus detectives must obediently answer any questions from this gorgeous girl genius," Miu asserted.

"That doesn't sound one bit like a free country," Shuichi countered, before Kokichi heard a shuffle and snatching.

"What are you doing, Iruma-san?!" Shuichi asked.

"Making sure you ain't hiding anything from us, you dipshit 'coz... what the?!"

"Gonta... Gonta don't believe this. Amami-kun killed... Akamatsu Mariko-san?"

"Tch, enough BS lies seriously. Who in hell would actually believe that after everything we have gone through?" Miu now bitterly asked, as Gonta nodded along in agreement.

"That confession just like Flashback Lights. It's a lie," Gonta said.

"Hey, don't take away my catchphrase," Kokichi teased before going to serious mode... not, "But what if it is a lie? Why is it that it's a lie it's not taken seriously? After all, you guys take me seriously and I am a 100% liar. So, how come this lie is not taken seriously?"

"Wait... we take you seriously?" Miu asked, sounding more a mock insult than an actual question.

"Why should the lie be taken seriously, Ouma-kun? Isn't purpose of lie to mislead us? Shouldn't we ignore it then?" Gonta asked, a more genuine question than Miu's.

"Because if you analyze a lie long enough, you will find more truth in it than the truth itself. Of course, that's a lie," Kokichi said.

Neither Gonta nor Miu were amused. Were they seriously use to this already? Well, actually they have been used to it around after the VR fiasco, but sheesh, talk about an audience.

"Fine..." Kokichi whined under their 'don't give me any BS' stares similar to Kirumi who usually dealt his antics with deadpan seriousness. And now Miu and Gonta?

What were they? His parents?

"When you know what is a lie, you can pick them out until a truth is left," Kokichi said with all the philosophy of a liar, "After so many lies, the truth is finally revealed. The truth we wanted to know, of Tsumugi Shirogane, Mariko Akamatsu and Rantaro Amami... I stand by my theory."

"Your insane theory? Especially about Mariko Akamatsu and Shitogane?!" Miu asked, "Even though the curve ball with that confession?"

"Did you not read that confession properly? Even when Gonta read it aloud for my own benefit?"

Kokichi recollected the contents of the confession, more of a will that was formatted more like blackout poetry which he only knew after the fact and it read like this:

... Akamatsu-neechan,
... looking for me ... ... Amami killed... for... good... ... ... I sacrificed... but... mastermind... ... so, please... ... if won, no more killing... ... betrayed... ... games again... ... Backup ... ...-san, trust... ... don't... if fail... mistakes... again... ... undo... always... ... for me... live... for... ... or... end... everything.

"Total BS. Sounds like Rantaro Amami killed Mariko Akamatsu as some kinda sacrifice to end their killing game and obviously failed. But then what about Shirogane huh? How does it explain the bathtub, and Mariko Akamatsu and Rantaro Amami being a Survivor in the end?"

"Gonta don't know what to think anymore. Gonta don't know what truth anymore," Gonta confessed.

"How could we, anyway?" Kokichi said in response, "The only one who knows the truth of the previous killing game are the people who survived the previous killing game to witness it all and heck, maybe they don't even know everything. Who said we needed to know the truth? It's exaggerated anyway."

"Then why the fuck are we trying to find this kind of stuff out in the first place?" Miu asked.

"Blackmail material," Kokichi smiled, "Anything we can use against them somehow, some way is worth finding out. It's because of the discoveries we made that we now have the direction called moving onwards to Kiyo-chan's Lab!"

"But why are we going to Kiyo-kun's Lab?" Gonta asked, failing to see how Kiyo's Lab connected with the discoveries from Kaede's Lab.

"Blackmail material," Kokichi said again, as if it was obvious.

"Blackmail...?" Miu asked, agape as if she didn't even know what the word meant.

"Blackmail against who?" Gonta asked, deciding to go for practically instead of beating around the bush. Good for him.

"Well, must be Shirogane, huh?" Miu decided to guess when Kokichi simply hummed and didn't answer, "After all, who else can we blackmail in this place? Everyone else is pretty much useless to blackmail over for."

"Hmph," Kokichi finally answered, disappointed by such lack of sight, "You really do not know the finer art of blackmailing, do you? If you cannot find the real person with the most potential of blackmail from right under your nose, literally."

"And who exactly is that? The person to blackmail?" Miu asked, a tinge of curiosity now in her voice.

"Monokuma. We all hate his guts anyway," Kokichi said gleefully, uncaring that the audience, higher-ups of this game and Monokuma himself might as well heard that with the surveillance. But it was the raw truth of the villain of a bear, so why not.

Of course, that meant their entire conversation about their discoveries after Kaede's Lab and their intent to Kiyo's Lab was heard but it was not like they can stop the surveillance 24/7, it would even be more suspicious otherwise. Life was a gamble, Kokichi was taking it.

"How the heck can you blackmail that bear? I thought if it were you, you would say 'Unlike humans, robots don't even have a heart to be swayed by blackmail, if they even have any~'" Miu mused.

"And if I were Kii-boy right now, I would say 'How robophobic. Even robots have something they care about to be worth blackmailing over!' And for once, I would have agreed with Kii-boy. Because at the very least, Monokuma is programmed to care about this killing game. So what if we use something against the killing game, just like the discovery back in Akamatsu-chan's Lab which can be used against the bear."

"So we back to that," Gonta said, having made himself the steady anchor for the conversations' confounding misdirections instead of naively going along with them before the VR fiasco, "What about that confession? What about the 'truth' of it and what does it have to do with Kiyo-kun's Lab? What do you mean by the discovery in Akamatsu-san's Lab could be used against Monokuma?"

"Hmm... all good questions, but since we are finally at Kiyo-chan's Lab, maybe you will figure it out yourselves~" Kokichi said, once they have finally reached the Ultimate Anthropologist's Lab and Kokichi opened the doors.

Miu and Gonta looked around while Kokichi immediately went for places he was sure could hide any places that could reveal something as surprising as Kaede's did, and Kirumi as well. Kokichi, who was more familiar with the Lab than either Miu or Gonta who was still absorbing Kiyo's Lab aesthetic and thinking what secrets could possibly be hidden.

"Oh, Iruma-chan, Gonta, when you found that confession in Akamatsu-chan's Lab, where exactly did you find it?"

"Saihara-kun found it when he noticed Akamatsu-san's hairpin among piano CDs in one of the shelves."

Kokichi nodded thoughtfully, storing away the information that the out-of-place hairpin among the CDs acted as a trigger to open up a secret place. It was similar to Kirumi's Ultimate Lab with the big red button behind the laundry machines.

...Coincidence? Obviously not. If secrets in Labs have happened twice, why not thrice? But what exactly would Kokichi and the rest of the KGB gain out of it?

"... Wo- woah?!" Miu suddenly let out, as the trio had searched through the Lab for anything out of the ordinary when Kokichi and Gonta had looked towards Miu who had stumbled upon one of the portraits in the Ultimate Anthropology Lab that clicked inwards and followed with a sudden rumbling quaking the Lab before it turned into...

"Wha- what is this?" Gonta asked.

"What bad taste, Shirogane-chan. What bad taste, Danganronpa," Kokichi said, clicking his tongue but finally affirming what Kokichi wanted.

The barren walls had opened up, revealing many portraits of women with Xs marking them. Popping out of the floors randomly were knives, guns, manchette, shovels, coffins and planks. Dropping from the ceiling were ropes but what was most apparent of them all...

"That is one sick memorial, and not in a fucking good way," Miu said, revolted at the very center-piece of the Lab, something close enough to an altar but streaked with blood, voodoo and cult stuff that Kokichi couldn't make heads or tails of and finally... a portrait of a woman looking very similar to Kiyo.

"Is that... Kiyo-kun's sister?" Gonta asked.

"Yep~" Kokichi said, "Congrats, we have just unlocked the Ultimate Serial Killer's Lab."

"Wha... just like Akamatsu-san's Lab, something opened up..." Gonta muttered to himself, before turning around to Kokichi, his face deep in thought, "Ouma-kun, you said that we will figure it ourselves about the connection between Kiyo-kun's Lab and Akamatsu-san's Lab along with the confession, 'truth' and how it could be used against Monokuma, against this killing game."

"Correct Gonta if Gonta wrong and Gonta think this answer after trying to figure out what Ouma-kun would think... is Ouma-kun trying to find a way to blackmail Monokuma through audience?"

Kokichi and Miu's mouth open wide, with the latter saying, "There's absolutely no way, that is the most insane thing I-"

"How the heck are you right?" Kokichi asked, "Damn it, subordinates aren't supposed to be as smart or smarter than their leaders if they are supposed to make good followers, but that's a lie. Excuse me, I'm just shocked right now. This is my shocked face."

Kokichi was actually shocked inside, although his blank face right now implied anything but, enough for Miu to retort, "You don't even look surprised, Ouma, but who cares about that right now? Gonta was right? How was Gonta right?!"

"Yeah, I kinda wanna know how Gonta even figure out something as crazy as that. I'm the insane clown here, but Gonta is an entirely different story altogether," Kokichi agreed, as both had looked at Gonta who fidgeted under their gazes.

"Well, Gonta... Gonta know he not very smart, but Gonta don't want to fall behind Ouma-kun and Iruma-san and be useless among KGB so Gonta tried to learn from Ouma-kun and Iruma-san and improve. So Gonta thought... if Gonta were in Ouma-kun shoes, what would Gonta do? Ouma-kun usually does a lot of crazy things so Gonta thought the answer to Ouma-kun's question would be crazy."

"But that not enough so Gonta had to think further like Ouma-kun, just like how Gonta had to think like bugs and animals back in wild to live in harmony with them although people more complicated, but Gonta trying. Gonta tried to think lots and lots about everything that happened before thinking why Monokuma can be blackmailed and remember Ouma-kun saying that bear programmed to care about killing game. And then Gonta remembered that audience also care about killing game."

"So, Gonta thought it crazy to use audience but then it fits Ouma-kun craziness. Since Gonta end up being right, can Ouma-kun explain further?"

"How rude, I am the perfect epitome of normal, not crazy in the slightest," Kokichi pouted, ignoring both Miu and Gonta's stares that seem to scream 'But you literally said you were an insane clown', "But... yeah sure I can explain to your puny minds."

"What puny mind? This gorgeous genius has one big golden brain that you cannot comprehend. In fact, it's fucking easy to know what your actually thinking. Don't think your the only smart one here and we are just idiot lackeys at your beck and call."

Huh? Kokichi does not really underestimate anyone that easily but he still wondered whether it was actually that easy, as Miu said, to pick on his logic and decided to take up the challenge with a devilish grin, as he said, "If you really think it's that easy~"

Miu puffed up her chest in response and answered, " Course it is. If we are trying to blackmail Monokuma and it has to do with the audience, it has to do with meta, the fourth wall and shit that Shirogane is interested in like her cosplay, anime and fanfics, otaku stuff. And I have watched some anime to get what fans might or might not like when watching our shitshow."

"And then there's always fanfiction coz peeps always want a what-if, 'coz damn right reading one Sa*lor Moon fanfic changed my entire damn perspective. Things could have gone so differently..." Miu mused, but then gotten serious again, "Why not same for our shitshow, for Danganronpa? Are there not many what-ifs, and..."

Miu smiled victoriously, "Reveals like Bakamatsu's confession and Shinguuji's Lab reveal give way to many what-ifs. Such as Bakamatsu discovering the confession early and confronting Amami differently or if someone had discovered the Serial Killer's Lab early when Shinguuji was still alive and he might be killed instead... and taking the audience in account..."

"Oi, dipshits!" Miu suddenly shouted out of nowhere, "Don't you wish it too? For a different game, a different what-if, preferably where everyone lives? If you listen to your hearts and know this show is total shit and want a what-if instead, then- ouch! What was that for?!"

"You were right," Kokichi said, after pulling Miu's cheeks hard, "And you sounded too much like a weeb. It wouldn't be surprising if you were actually Shirogane-chan in disguise."

"You forgot that Shirogane-san has cospox," Gonta pointed out.

"It could be a lie," Kokichi said.

"Gonta not really sure and don't remember much, but during tennis match between Hoshi-kun and Yonaga-san, Shirogane-san who was dressed as Yonaga-san had a bunch of rashes and hives all over the body. Isn't that cospox? Shouldn't that mean cospox is not a lie then?"

"Yeah, and there's no way that Shirogane could disguise as moi. She doesn't have the honkers to match these right here," Miu said, showing off her breasts to emphasize the point as Gonta politely looked away with a red face and Kokichi made a face.

"Bleh, moving on," Kokichi said, childishly fake puking at Miu's crass attitude, "Anyone would understand the options of different choices in stories but this isn't a story for us. In our setting, it's our reality and reality-wise, you cannot change the past. Even with such a possibility, who's to say this game won't even be worse than this?"

"Worse like what?" Gonta asked, tilting his head.

"Like... in the VR world, one of us became victim and the other blackened instead of... this," Kokichi said, his voice carrying a dark undertone with those words. The effect was immediate with Miu's and Gonta's grimace.

"Yeah, Gonta prefer this version. Gonta won't change anything because Gonta don't want to kill anyone. Gonta wish if can reset, everyone lives... but not likely, huh?"

Kokichi nodded, and Miu pursed her lips as the latter asked, "If not that, then how do you plan to blackmail, huh?"

"Oh, very simple~ Sure changing the past is a closed road, but why can't we change the future with these kind of reveals just like when Saihara-chan seen that confession, maybe we can..."

"Holy shit," Miu said, after listening to Kokichi's explanation. It seemed that Gonta got it too when his mouth had opened wide. About a truth out of all the lies from that confession of Kaede's Lab.

It was a total red herring, but why would such a herring be there? For people who would have no idea it was a herring in the first place and act on it in the first place, just like possible prompts to push the story, if that hasn't been figured out yet.

It goes to say, even if this is potentially playing with fire, why couldn't the prompts be used by the KGB, for their own nefarious purposes. Prompts Kokichi could use for his final plan because his final plan could be an entire story altogether, one that diverged entirely from the mastermind's. A story that could free them all, if he used the prompts that the mastermind failed to use, in his own way.

"Yeah, real good idea, right? It makes my heart wanna pound... if it can be pulled off, that is!"

Everything changed in that instant.

***

They had done plenty throughout the day, trying to find as much mysteries of this killing game and solving them the best they could as any step forward towards the end of this killing game.

Yet, the day was not over. There was still so much left to do. Although Gonta was somewhat composed outside, he can't stop being shunned and shell shocked at the chain of events that happened one after another. What even is going on? Especially...

"Ah, everyone get behind Gonta!" Gonta shouted now, pushing Kokichi and Miu behind himself as soon as the bear just decided to show up for no apparent reason and interrupt their conversation by giving his two cents. Gonta didn't even think at that point, as he took out the gun Miu provided and pointed it straight to Monokuma.

It was easier to protect this way, being able to attack Monokuma long-range without the bear getting any closer to his friends in comparison to using his fists.

"Aww, come on already!" Monokuma shouted, claws up in the air, "That's just the same old reaction at this point, even though the gun is new. But violence against the headmaster is forbidden! Have some damn respect!"

"You seriously expect us to respect you?" Kokichi asked, his head tilted, "What are you doing here anyway? Are you gonna kill us and replace us with clones so that we won't go ahead with our plan?"

"Ouma-kun, now's not the time for bad jokes," Gonta said, as he stared warily at Monokuma, not even letting go of the gun. Of course he didn't know how to use it, and truthfully he had closed his eyes when watching violent gun scenes that have happened in Sherlock Holmes show in his quest for learning to become a gentleman through the gentleman detective but still... he would use the gun if necessary.

"You know, I'm actually tempted to do just that, or better yet- Hey, what the heck are you doing?!" Monokuma shouted, seeming to have pulled something but before anyone could react, Kokichi immediately slipped past Gonta and quickly grabbed whatever Monokuma was holding with a yoink. Gonta and Miu could immediately see that in Kokichi's hand right now was a Flashback Light.

"Not this time, Monokuma~ You should have knocked us out when you had the chance instead~" Kokichi said, twirling the Flashback Light in his hand.

"What the- were you planning to alter our memories?" Miu demanded of Monokuma.

"Of course-" Monokuma stated for Kokichi to finish, "-not!"

Monokuma looked at Kokichi before saying, "Huh? Of course I would wipe away your memories after all the shit you guys are scheming and being a pain in my honey. Honestly I should have done this ages ago."

"Exactly~" Kokichi said, "You should have done this ages ago, but instead your doing it now. And even then it doesn't make sense to do it now. When warping or erasing our memories, it to the point of VR, would just confuse the rest of our classmates. They would notice something amiss of us, they will try to find out why and when they find out it's you, they will find out your justification."

"For some reason, I think that is a lot more hassle than what the three of us are doing now: I doubt you want too many people on your honey, if you get what I mean."

"Urgh! Do you know how annoying you are when you are right?" Monokuma asked, with claws up once again as Gonta tried to push Kokichi back to them and Miu took the Flashback Light for examination.

"Hmm, yeah, this Flashback Light is unusable, the switch is up. If the Flashback Light isn't used yet, the switch would be down and once the switch is up, it cannot be used again. This is a dummy Flashback Light."

"Grr..." Monokuma growled, "Why you kids I oughta..."

"So you just want to threaten us instead, huh? Well, fair enough since if someone wants to blackmail you, you blackmail them back. At least that's what I will do," Kokichi said, as he ignored and looked back down on the bear.

When it comes to conversations like these, it was best to let Kokichi have the reins, since he has the best smooth talker out of them all. However, that does not mean neither Gonta nor Miu would interject when they think it is necessary.

"Mmhm, but then again, what is the effort for? We all know you are going to kill us off in the end so why even bother threatening us, unless you think you can't handle us?" Kokichi pressed further.

Gonta had always been uncomfortable with every morbid joke that Kokichi uttered, wanting to rebuke with 'Don't just say that we will be killed off like that,' but Gonta kept that one in when he read the room and felt the ever-growing tension between boy and bear.

"Mmm... you should very well know that if you read the rules, I as your wonderful and beary loveable headmaster cannot lay a single paw against you students so killing you is unacceptable but I also cannot let you go as you please. You could say this was the last straw, and what other way than threats if I can't kill?"

"Haha, last straw indeed! That's what you get for putting us in this bullshit killing game in the first place!" Miu exclaimed, looking cocky as she stared down at the bear as well, "And is it coz we have found out these secret places that you don't want to know? Worried that we will find your stash of porn. I would be so disappointed if we do though, because what kinda cliche blackmail is that?"

"Hmph, who do you think I am? Of course I don't have any dirty magazines. If I want something, I can go look at my wife!"

"Gonta suddenly feels uncomfortable," Gonta suddenly mumbled, maybe because he had a sixth sense where this was going and instinctively knew he won't like it. Maybe because he was getting the same vibe as Miu's crass attitude, Kiyo's love for his sister and the two Monokubs' melodrama.

"Gonta Protection Squad member, reporting for duty!" Kokichi suddenly shouted as he climbed on Gonta's back and covered Gonta's ears for unknown reasons.

Because Gonta's ears were muffled, he couldn't hear much but was able to see Miu and Monokuma's shocked expression of disbelief as the former said something which he could barely catch the words, 'No way... Since when...'

Feeling Kokichi's breath tickled his neck, Gonta knew he responded and even with closer proximity, he could hear, 'But... course... innocence... especially... not... lie...'

Gonta could see Miu rolling her eyes as he pried away Kokichi's hands from his ears. He knew well enough that this was just their usual banter but in the presence of Monokuma, it was better for them to be serious.

At the very least, he wanted Monokuma to leave as soon as possible away from them all.

"What do you want from us Monokuma?" Gonta decided to ask, going straight to the point and getting it over with.

"What do I want, you ask," Monokuma said, before raising his claws up, "Well, I wanted you guys dead, but I ain't getting that even when there's all these murder weapons around you that your hands should be itching to use. So I will settle for the next best thing: Stop poking your nose where it doesn't belong! It's completely useless anyway, whatever you are planning. You could use that time better to plan the next murder which is like way more productive, you know?"

"This is supposed to discourage and threaten us how?" Miu asked, "Do you think any of us are psychos who want to get on with murder?"

"Well, you beary well should! I mean, who else but teenagers that have entered the rebellious phase that by being against the world became psycho and have a thirst for blood. What happened to loving gun games, horror and murder flicks that you want to do those yourself? I swear, kids these days. Give them an opportunity and they will never take it," Monokuma grumbled.

"But Gonta is a teenager and Gonta not psycho, have thirst for blood, loves gun games, horror or any murder flicks. Gonta don't like any of those at all. It makes Gonta sad. Killing and fear shouldn't be done to anyone, people or animals," Gonta pointed out.

"Well.. you are the exception to the rule!" Monokuma protested back, "Other teenagers..."

"Who's got time for all that shit? It's better off for me to spend that time on my inventions," Miu scoffed.

"Eh... I love games but that doesn't make me psycho or thirsty for blood, you know?" Kokichi answers smoothly.

"At least neither of your answers are as pure as Gonta's!" Monokuma shouted before pointing it to Kokichi as he continued, "And you didn't even deny that you like gun games, horror or murder flicks!"

Kokichi just smiled before Monokuma stomped his foot and just said, "Ugh, whatever! You want discouraging and threatening. I will give you discouraging and threatening! You would stop this unless you want everyone to figure out who the mastermind is."

Gonta, Kokichi and Miu looked shocked as Gonta later spoke among the silence, "But if everyone know the mastermind, then..."

"Then you will all die, yes," Monokuma answered in glee, "Upupupu, feel discouraged and threatened now?"

"What the fuck?!" Miu exclaimed, "Are you seriously saying that Shitogane will out herself as-"

"Not that the mastermind will out themselves," Monokuma protested, "But that you will out them if you keep this up."

"How?" Gonta asked, because he couldn't see what Monokuma meant, how they were doing things related to them outing the mastermind. The KGB knew the mastermind's rules, that if it was publicly announced of the mastermind's identity too early to the rest of their classmates, the higher-ups would scrap them. That's the reason among many others that none of them could carelessly reveal Tsumugi's identity to anyone else lest revealed to everyone.

"Oh, don't tell me you forgotten discovering Akamatsu's secrets along with Saihara. You are lucky that it was all about Akamatsu there and not something... more," Monokuma finally said.

"Huh? Are you saying that mastermind-chan would be someone so utterly stupid that they would leave clues and paint a big red target on their back saying, 'I am the mastermind!' Ridiculous, utterly ridiculous~" Kokichi said. Gonta had to agree with that, since that does sound stupid with the potential of breaking the rules set by those higher ups, if Gonta remembered right from that video just a mere few days ago.

Yet, Monokuma seemed pretty unfazed by that, as he put a hand over his mouth and let out a giggle, "Upupupu, if that's what you think, you clearly don't know the killing games well enough concerning the mastermind and their possible reveals~ After all, the point is that the mastermind cannot be revealed early, only at the right time by the mastermind themselves when the story and gore gets real juicy. But with your meddling, and if the others notice your meddling... then, what do you think will happen~?"

"So what you are saying is that whatever clues we find about the mastermind, if we continue on, are left there on purpose, just for the mastermind themselves to direct everyone else into finding them and putting the pieces together... but only at the right moment," Kokichi said.

"Uh huh," Monokuma nodded, "It's good that you understand quick, and that makes me question how... if all this is left on purpose, if everything was just a detailed set-up from the mastermind only for themselves and no other, how exactly are you going to pull off your idea, and without letting the others find out and take matters to their own hands?"

... Gonta could no longer count with his two hands how much his head hurts from all this chaotic mess of subtlety, manipulations and threats laced in what sounded like otherwise 'amiable' conversation. Honestly, Gonta was struggling to keep up but throughout he had been getting a bad feeling about all this, besides from the obvious. A bad feeling that only grew stronger as his mind caught and simplified snippets of what Monokuma might said and associated it with...

Tsumugi Shirogane herself, the mastermind. At this point, Gonta knew what move he had to make, before the other two could potentially makes things worse. They will understand eventually.

"Gonta understand," Gonta said before the other two could respond, before they would respond opposite of his own as Gonta suspected and was sure of, "We will stop looking for Labs' secrets."

"What? Why? Excuse me?" Miu asked in rapid succession as she looked at Gonta with a face of disbelief. Kokichi looked like he was at a loss of words, eyes widening at Gonta's response.

"After all," Gonta continued before anyone could interrupt him, before anyone could doubt his words, "Snooping around is not worth the lives of friends. Gonta don't want anyone to die."

It was unnerving how silent Monokuma was at Gonta's response and how still, as if it was something nearly impossible to process before the bear finally spoke up:

"Hmph, and I thought you would put up much more of a fight, but you really do care about your so-called friends, do you? Ah well, for the time being, I will give you the benefit of the doubt! There's only so much time I could give to you bozos before I do the rest of my duties as your beloved headmaster to liven up this killing game. But I hope my warning did get through to you, otherwise all your lives are on immediate forfeit... ~"

With that, Monokuma finally left when Gonta could finally lower the gun that he kept pointing at Monokuma no matter the situation and both Miu and Kokichi looked at Gonta, their faces demanding an explanation but before either of them could open their mouths to ask it, Gonta shook his head.

"Not here," Gonta said in a whisper, as if just speaking softly would be easily disregarded by the surveillance watching and listening in 24/7, but it was inconsquential in the big picture of the words that would come after, and enough for Miu and Kokichi's eyes to light up in understanding and nod along.

That was how, mere moments later, they find themselves, to what Miu dubbed as 'base of their operations' much to Kokichi's denial, with the Bugvac whirring and freeing them of the nosy surveillance that would only give them a short respite.

Put it simply, they were in Kokichi's room.

"So will you explain yourself now?" Miu asked.

"Gonta think Monokuma's threat is a lie," Gonta answered, "Gonta think Monokuma hiding Shirogane-san's plan from us."

"Shirogane-chan's plan?" Kokichi asked, with a raised brow, "And how did you come across the fact of this plan of hers?"

"Gonta can't say for sure about Shirogane-san's plan but Gonta sure she have some plan. After all..."

Gonta proceeded to explain further what he had done with Tsumugi that he did not before when he insisted on Kokichi and Miu's help for bringing Tsumugi to their side with only the very basics enough to make them jump on the wagon considering the hype and everything that happened in too rapid fire succession. Now, he told them from revealing to Tsumugi he knew she was the mastermind after the rom-com watch, the confrontation with her in her own room which ended up with attempted murder and that rant which could be simplified as how nothing was going to plan right up until his quest and findings to unravel the mastermind's intentions.

"Ah, no wonder you would think Shirogane would have a plan, if she was desperate like that. And what does that have to do with responding to Monokuma like that, eh?" Miu asked.

"Gonta did not want to waste anymore time. If it kept going on, it more time for Shirogane-san to prepare her plan and less time for us to prepare against it," Gonta answered, surely the influence of being with the KGB and their plans that taught Gonta to answer as such nowadays.

"You make a good point. After all, we are only 2 days away, but if Shirogane-chan is brewing up a plan and with the rest of what's happening, what can we do, I wonder~" Kokichi said, in a teasing voice as if it had nothing to do with him, although Gonta knew better.

They were reaching a climax, there was many things unknown yet many things uncovered, and taking everything to account, with the day still far from over...

"... Ouma-kun, do you remember the time you said something about the... Last Hurrah?" Gonta asked to Kokichi although it was Miu who answered.

"What?! That insane plan? Are you thinking-?"

"Yes," Gonta nodded, "Gonta think it less insane with that kind of discovery before..."

Gonta was referring to Kiyo's Lab, their discovery of the Ultimate Serial Killer's Lab, about what Kokichi had indicated when he said they could use this along with Kaede's Lab and the possibility they will find more like this.

He had thought about Tsumugi, and Rantaro's killing game, of what secrets Tsumugi kept, what could be used to break her shell of the mastermind, reveal within and move on from there.

They didn't have a lot of time left, Monokuma's threat reminded them of such. It was past the point of making discoveries and time to do something about them.

"... Ugh, if you put it that way, your right. And now that we are here... is it that Ouma can predict the future or something?"

"Yuppers," Kokichi said, "You got me. I'm psychic. So if you want to escape the killing game alive, you have gotta listen to every word I say, like obedient henchmen, got it?"

"... Gonta wished that was truth," Gonta said, "But Ouma-kun should know if Ouma-kun know future, Iruma-san and Gonta won't follow you mindlessly, right?"

"Rebellion right at the start?!" Kokichi gasped dramatically, "But I guess that's what makes you a lot less boring than you were before."

Gonta don't know what Kokichi meant by 'not boring' but Gonta had long shed his naïveté so his response shouldn't have been surprising altogether. Gonta would be surprised if anyone else was shocked by his response.

"Hmph, quit being a drama queen you little shit," Miu huffed, "The day is ticking away after all, and... we are KGB, right? We are all on the same page?"

Miu looked at both Gonta and Kokichi as if confirming something, where in their gazes between each other had a lot of unspoken words, where they knew each other well enough to at least know the action needed to be taken for the rest of the day, especially when Miu said that they were the KGB, which was the real response to Monokuma's threat, where they actually rise up against it.

So, Gonta and Kokichi nodded, their plans later unknown to the audience leaving surprising actions when the time comes that will turn the tide to their favor.

In fact, Gonta knew that things were starting to look up.