Danganronpa: Despair Hidden Behind the Veil/ Chapter 2

## Chapter 2: To Persist - Daily Life (Told in Multiple POV; Starting in Elle Romanova's POV.)

“DING DONG-BING BONG”

“Good morning everyone. It is currently 10 A.M. Time to rise and shine!” i heard Monokuma say from the TV.

I let out a sigh, and got up, got ready in the clothes that Alyss and Dragomir had prepared for me, and even did the makeup again. “Time to do this.” I said, leaving my room. I started heading for the dining hall, but was grabbed from behind. I tried fighting back, but whoever it was had a tight grip, and ended up hitting me pretty hard on the head.

Eric’s POV

I woke up, yawning. “What a good night's sleep.” i said, before changing and walking out of my room. “Hm, i should check and See if Elle is up.” i started walking to the cafe, a smile on my face.

“Yo!” said a voice to my left. I looked to see Chen smiling. “Man, a good cat nap helps everything.”

“So you are better?” I asked.

“Yeah. Coralia stayed with me until I went to sleep.” he said, as we kept walking. But soon, a scent hit my nose. “Wha?” I asked. But Chen ran ahead. I followed, soon seeing Elle lying against the wall, her head was bleeding. “Elle!”

For a moment, she was unresponsive. Until, “owww…. I feel like I was hit with a bat..” she mumbled, wincing.

“Come on, lets get her to my lab.” Chen said, helping her up. Odd, he seems more…...protective.

“Right.” i said, taking her other side. We walked to his lab, as he opened the door. Coralia was already inside, feeding the animals.

“Morning, Che-” she started, turning. “Oh no.”

“Coral, you are the only medical person here.” Chen said.

“On it!” she said, clearing space on a table. “Set her there.”

We obliged, as Coral went to work. “This was no accident.” I said.

“You got that right!” Chen said, eyes burning with fire.

“Well, we can get details later. Just...sit tight.” Coralia said, “Must have happened a few minutes before you found her… be glad whoever did this didn’t do it harder… we would have lost her immediately. Just need to sew up this wound and we’ll be good...” She got a needle and thread. Elle let out a soft sound of pain when Coralia began sewing the wound closed.

“O-ow.” whimpered Elle, shutting her eyes tighter.

“Here.” I said, holding out my hand. “If it hurts, squeeze my hand.”

She nodded, taking my hand. After a few minutes, Coralia stepped back. “There. Done.” she said, “Now… what happened exactly?”

“...I don’t know… I left my room heading to the dining hall… and someone grabbed me from behind…” Elle said.

“So we don’t know exactly who?” I asked, but Chen stood.

“Chen?” Coralia asked.

“The only thing I know is that they had a strong grip… They didn’t speak.” Elle said.

“Whoever did this will have hell to pay!” Chen said.

“Chen, if we don’t know who did this… we don’t have a suspect.” Coralia said.

“I know, but this means i will be looking out for everyone more often” he said, a look of conviction on his face.

“...You won’t do it alone….” Coralia said. “Well, Elle, you’re all fixed up.” Elle nodded, starting to get off the table.

“Let's get to breakfast.” I said, smiling.

“Y-yeah.” Elle said, smiling a little.

“I’ll join in a bit. Still need to finish feeding these little cuties.” Coralia said, smiling.

Chen followed us, keeping an eye out for anyone. When we entered, Michiko was pouring hot water into several glasses. Seraphina, Shiro, Yuki, Sun, Kosuke and Vixen were there. “Ah, good morning you three.” she said, before looking up. “Elle? What happened?”

“Someone attacked me from behind… no big deal.” Elle said.

“What? That is a big deal.” Yuki said. “And what’s with the new clothes and makeup…? You look….like a goth….”

Dragomir and Alyss walked in. “Good mornin- Elle?” said Dragomir.

“Whoa… it looks like you were hit with-” Alyss started.

“...don’t worry, I’m fine.” Elle said, “A bit out of it, but fine.”

“Well, we were about to discuss the new area.” Kosuke said.

“New area?” Elle asked, “Has something new opened?”

“Looks like the courtyard.” He replied. “We were about to send out a team to explore.”

“And I was just about to suggest Elle goes…” Vixen said, “But she’s all bloodied up.”

“She says she’s fine, so why not?” Seraphina asked.

“We can go with her.” I said, looking at Chen. He nodded. “With all three of us, we can get it explored in no time.”

“Alright. And meet back up here.” Michiko said. “I trust you will keep an eye on her?”

“I’m fine, geez…” Elle said, turning around, only to bump into Jason. Her ice-blue eyes widened slightly, but she shook her head, walking past him.

“What’s wrong with her?” Jason asked.

“Someone attacked her this morning.” I said, walking past, followed by Chen.

Elle was leaning against the wall, shaking slightly. She looked terrified. “Calm down… n-nothing’s going to happen…” she whispered, a slight accent slipping into her voice.

“Elle?” I asked. “Was…..it him?”

“I don’t know… I think so… but I didn’t see him…” she said, looking at me.

“Well, we will see soon enough.” Chen said. “But for now, let’s see what the yard has for us.” we stood in front of the door. “Ready?”

“Ready.” Elle said.

We opened the doors. The sun blasted our eyes, but we looked out at the extremely large yard. “Whoa!” Chen said, eyes wide.

It was huge. It looked like we had things to distract ourselves if we wished. A swimming pool, sauna, dojo, even a store. There were a few labs too. “Wow. this is nice.” I said.

“It’s amazing…” Elle said, stepping outside, walking towards the pool.

Chen went towards the store, meanwhile I went to each of the labs. The first was a pair of slippers and a empty bag. “Michiko and…...Vixen? They really just put an empty bag?!” I exclaimed.

“A tambourine would have been better.” Elle said, walking over from the pool.

“Or a deck of fortune cards.” Chen said. We walked to the next, a stack of chips and a top hat was on the next. “Sun and……”

“Ace.” I said.

“If he had lasted long enough…” Elle whispered.

“Yeah.” i said, as Chen put his hand on my shoulder.

“Don’t worry, we can make sure his death was not in vain. The mastermind will pay.” he said.

We nodded, going to the final one, which had a kendo stick crossed with a katana. “And finally….” I started.

“J-Jason…” started Elle, backing up.

“And Phantom.” Chen said, hissing.

“Lets head back. We need to tell the others.” I said, taking Elle’s hand.

“R-right.” Elle said, nodding. “L-let’s go.”

“You guys go ahead.” Chen said. “I’m going to explore some more.”

I nodded, as Elle and I walked back to the dining hall, where everyone else gathered.

“So…?” Michiko asked, “What did you find?”

“There was a store, a pool, a sauna, and a dojo,” Elle said, “And a few labs.”

“Michiko and Vixen’s, Ace and Sun’s, and finally, Phantom and Jason’s.” i said. “We don’t know if that is all that opened, so Chen kept looking.”

“He’ll be back soon, though.” Elle said.

“...so…. What’s with the new look?” Seraphina asked, “Wanted to impress someone?”

“...” Elle fell silent, looking down.

“I thought Dragomir and Alyss decided to give her a makeover. As for impressions.” i said, looking at Elle. “She looks amazing.” Dragomir and Alyss fist-bumped.

“Told you we did good.” Alyss said.

Elle blushed, looking at me. “I d-do?” she asked.

“Yes. You look amazing.” I said, smiling.

She blushed darker. “Aw, how cute.” Seraphina sarcastically said, “Now, how about we discuss what happened this morning?”

“Well, as was said earlier, Elle was attacked from behind. The culprit hit her with something hard, causing a cut. As she described, the person was very strong with a strong grip.” I said, as Chen came back.

“And I assume you two found her?” Veronica asked, looking at Chen and I.

“Yeah. we smelled blood and were worried another murder had happened.” Chen said.

“Hm… looks like we’ll have to keep an eye out..” Michiko said, “But not the time… Chen, did you find anything else?”

“Nothing really. There is a building next to the sauna for humidity control as well as functions for the pool.” he replied.

“But no other labs…” Yuki said.

“Well, that doesn’t really matter…” Jason said, before changing the subject, “Any ideas on who attacked you, Elle?” She was silent, looking at him.

I looked at her and spoke. “Well, we thought it was you.” I said.

“What?!” Jason said, surprised.

“...You’re built larger than most of us…” Elle said. “But… I could be mistaken…”

“Ok, i understand, but it could have been the mastermind for all we know.” Jason said.

“He does have a point.” Veronica said.

“And you didn’t see who did it, so…” started Coralia.

“It could have been anyone.” Vixen said.

“But it means we have to be extra careful now.” Kosuke said. “Someone who attacks for no reason will makes this game more dangerous.”

“And if their target is Elle,” Michiko said, “She should have someone with her.”

“I have an idea.” I said. “Elle, how good are your self-defense skills?”

“Um… if you consider fencing lessons since Grade 1 self-defense skills...I’m okay? Top of the class, anyways...” Elle said. “Without a weapon...not that great.”

“Well, then let's get those up.” I said. “Self defense can save your life. Even if you are unarmed, a good counter can help in the long run.”

“...and you think teaching the Princess self defense is a good idea?” Seraphina asked.

“It's better than carrying a weapon and get talked about behind their back.” I retorted.

“Well, if you want help, I’m game.” Vixen said.

“Yeah, me too.” Jason said. “Especially if that person was as strong as they sound.”

“Elle, it's up to you.” I said.

“...okay.” She said, nodding. “Let’s do this.”

“The gym’s probably the best area.” Vixen said, “Unless you’re okay being out in the sun?”

“Did someone say-” Sun started.

“NO!” we all yelled, Sun scowling.

“...Well, what do you think, Eric? It was your idea, after all…” Elle said, looking at me.

“Outside. Then we can cool off in the pool.” I said. “Fresh air might do us some good.”

“Exactly what I was thinking. Let’s change and meet up outside.” Vixen said. “After all, wouldn’t want to get in the pool fully dressed now, do we?”

“Agreed.” said Chen.

“Wait, you are joining?” Jason asked

“Yeah, why not?” Chen asked back.

“The inside, internet personality wants to learn to fight?” Jason said. “I thought you were declawed?”

Chen gave him this look. “30 minutes. Then we start.” he said, pushing past Jason.

“Wow… I’ve never seen him so serious…” Vixen said.

“I think it’s because of the whole situation….” Elle replied.

“I think it’s because of you,” Vixen said, walking out. “Meet you guys out there!”

“Well, lets go.” i said, walking to the dorm, Elle on my heels. I went into my room, changing into a judo gi, a remnant from years ago. I tied the brown belt around my waist and walked out to the courtyard. Jason was already there, as well as Chen.

“So, judo, huh?” asked Jason, walking over.

“A girl loves a man in uniform,” said Vixen, walking out in some ripped jean shorts and a green bikini top.

“I don’t exactly have good practice clothes.” i said, looking at Chen, who was wearing a uniform similar to mine except he was wearing a red and black belt. “Chen, what did you practice?”

“Kung Fu.” he said, smiling.

“And you are that good?!” I asked, shocked.

“Yeah, the style I choose was pretty easy.” he said.

“Huh, surprising… I just have street smarts…” Vixen said. “Now...we wait for the princess…”

“Yeah.” i said. I did not expect Chen to know a fighting style. And i believe i wasn't the only one. Jason kept looking at Chen with this look.

“I’m sorry I took so long,” Elle said, walking over to us. She had her hair pulled up, and was wearing her swimsuit, a black one-piece that had straps along the sides, under a lavender skirt. “Took me a few minutes to get ready…”

“Well, you made it just in time.” I said.

“Whoa.” Vixen said.

“I didn’t expect you to look so…” started Jason.

“Beautiful.” I said, smiling and blushing.

“I was going to say hot…” Jason muttered.

“Well, thank you,” Elle said, smiling, blushing as well. “Now… who wants to go first…?”

“Well, why not let the two in uniform fight?” Jason suggested. “Since self defence is not just one group of movements.”

Chen and I looked at each other. “Really?” I  asked.

“It’s probably best that she gets a good look at what she’s supposed to do before one of us tries to do something on her.” Vixen said, “As practice, I mean. No one would attack you right now.”

Chen and i took places in the center circle that was drawn out. “Now, this is only a practice bout. No serious injuries.” Jason said. “Ready!” i got into my stance. Chen feinted a drink and started wobbling like he was drunk. “Fight!” i charged, hoping to get him with a quick grab, but he weaved out and landed a punch to my side. I looked up as his foot went past my face. I grabbed it, throwing him down. He jumped up, taking another drink and hiccing.

“What is he even doing? He looks like he has been drinking.” Vixen asked.

“It seems that way…” Elle said, “Is...that normal?”

I knew this was no easy bout. Chen was a master of Drunken Boxing, a style that has movements that make it seem like they are drunk. I ran around him, hoping to catch him off guard but he turned and grabbed me, and suplexed me to the hard ground.

“Oooh.” Vixen said, flinching.

“Eric!” Elle started, about to run over to me.

“No!” I yelled, jumping up. “This just got interesting.” I charged, and we clashed, our attacks blocked by the other easily. You know the saying that if two masters fought, time seemed to slow for them as they were at equal skill? That is exactly how this felt.

Jason walked over to Elle and Vixen. “Geez, these two are strong.” he said.

Elle bit her lip. “I’m worried about them…” she whispered.

“Worried?” asked Vixen.

“Chen’s my friend...and Eric is…” she started, pausing as she looked over at me. “My boyfriend, I suppose? I don’t think we ever decided what we actually were…”

We jumped back, both breathing heavily. Chen then went for one final punch, which i caught and threw him over my shoulder. He landed and went to get up but i had a palm at his chest. “You fight well.” I said, helping him up.

“Says the guy who kept making it more interesting.” Chen said, sarcastically.

“Boys,” Vixen called. “You’re both lovely, now don’t start fighting again.”

We looked at her. “Oh…..did we take it a bit too far?” I asked. “Whoops.” I walked over and looked at Elle. “You ok? You look like you have seen a ghost.”

She was silent, and just hugged me tightly.

“She was scared for the both of you.” Vixen explained. “Thought it was going a little too real.”

“Yeah, we kinda forgot how real it is.” Chen said. “We can do this more than once.”

“Agreed.” Jason said. “But why don’t we hit the pool?”

“Hm, how about we try something with her majesty first?” Vixen asked.

“H-huh?” asked Elle.

“Vixen, what are you thinking?” I asked.

“Oh, you know, a little one-on-one...between her and Jason.” Vixen said.

“What?” Chen said.

“Why not?” Vixen asked, “Just to see what she can do.”

“I r-really don’t think that’s a good idea…” Elle said.

“Exactly! I could… I don’t know, break her, or something!” Jason said.

“Only if you let yourself do that to her.” Vixen said.

“...fine,” Jason sighed. “But let me know if I’m hurting you.”

Elle looked over at me, a frightened look on her face, before she nodded. “O-okay. Let’s do this…” she said, walking over to the circle.

“Now, I want both of you to be careful. This is a practice round, not a real fight.” Vixen said, as Jason got into a fighting stance. Elle just stood there. “Ready…? Fight!” Jason charged towards Elle, and she dodged his grab, stepping to the side. He let out a growl, reaching for her again. “Damn, it’s like he’s trying to grab her…” Vixen muttered. Elle kept dodging his attempts, staying light on her feet, like she was dancing.

“She is Certainly doing well.” Chen said.

“Yeah, but i have a feeling that this might get more dangerous.” I said.

“Stay still, you-!” started Jason, trying to grab her again. Elle smirked, and cartwheeled backwards.

“Nope. You’ll have to catch me off guard first!” Elle said. Jason charged at her, and lifted his foot for a kick. “W-whoa!” Elle started, stepping back before he could kick her.

“Like so.” I said.

“We can step in when necessary.” Chen said.

“Might be sooner than you think.” Vixen said.

Jason tried to grab her again, and Elle instinctively rose her foot to try to hit him back, but he grabbed her leg, pulling her towards him. He grabbed her by her neck, anger in his eyes. Her eyes widened.

“Jason!” i opened my mouth but it was Vixen who spoke. She ran over, using her palm and pushed him across the yard. “Elle, you ok?”

“F-fine…” she replied, backing away. “L-let’s just get in the pool, ‘kay?”

She nodded, as we walked over. “He never likes to lose.” Chen said, as Jason got up.

“He looked like he was going to kill her if she taunted him one more time.” Vixen said.

“I was not!” he retorted.

“Well, you were getting kinda pissed.” i said.

“She was moving too fast!” He said, “You try to keep up with someone who’s just dancing around a field like that!”

“Guys!” Elle yelled. “Please… not now…”

“Well, lets just get in the pool.” said Chen, removing the Gi. he was wearing a tight shirt and a speedo. He ran and jumped in. he surfaced “Wow the water is nice and cold.”

“Well, let’s see if he’s right.” Vixen said, removing her shorts to reveal the rest of her bikini and jumping in.

Elle giggled, taking off her skirt and pulling her hair out of the ponytail. She dove in, before surfacing with Vixen. “C’mon, guys, the water is perfect!” she said.

Jason laughed, removing his outfit and jumping in. “C’mon, Eric!”

Elle smiled, going underneath the water and swimming over to the edge. “Come on.. Not like a little water can hurt you.” she said, holding her hand out to me.

I laughed, removing my gi. Good thing I grabbed the square cut ones. I jumped in, swimming towards them. “This is nice.” I said.

“It is..” Vixen said, laying back into a floating position. “But it’s nice to be outside for once.”

“True.” I said, as Chen jumped on me. I went under and came up, as he and Vixen laughed. “Come on!”

“Relax… Have some fun!” Vixen laughed. “After all,” she nudged me a little, “We’re doing this for your girl.” She looked over to where Elle was, her arms on the edge of the pool, looking out at the rest of the scenery.

“I know.” i said, as Chen climbed on Jason’s shoulders. “Chicken!”

“Hey, what are you-?” Jason started, confused.

I understood, and grabbed Elle, putting her on my shoulders. She was confused slightly before pointing. “GET THEM!” I charged.

“Uh, oh…” Vixen said, swimming out of the way. Elle laughed.

“Oh, so this is what we’re doing.” Jason said, coming towards me.

We kept at it for awhile, soon Chen fell. “Aww man.” He said when he surfaced.

“Yes!” Elle exclaimed, laughing, before she fell, too.

We all looked at each other and laughed. “This has been fun.” I said.

“Exactly what I wanted.” Vixen said, smiling. “Some good old relaxation.”

“That was so much fun!” Elle exclaimed, laughing. “I haven’t done that in years.”

“Well, when we are not in hell, we can enjoy this.” I said.

“Not now, lovebirds.” Jason said. “We still need to teach Elle some self defense tricks.”

“That is very true.” Vixen said. “But while we are not training, we can still relax.”

“Yeah. I’d like that…” Elle said, looking at us. She smiled, and went under the water.

“Elle?” I asked, looking around. “She was just here.”

I felt a tug on my hand, pulling me under the water.

I made a small scream as i was pulled under. I looked at her, giving her one hell of a look.

She smiled, and kissed me, before letting go of me, surfacing.

I rose to the surface. “Ok…..that was not what I expected.” I said.

“What? Did you expect me to drown you?” she asked, tilting her head. “Because I wouldn’t.”

“Um, no. I thought you were going to mess with me.” I said.

“Maybe some other time…” Elle said, swimming backwards to the edge and climbed out.

“....and that’s your girlfriend…” muttered Jason.

“She is a fun person.” I said, smiling. “Well, we have time, want to check the labs out?”

“Why not?” Vixen asked.

“Eh… I’ll check mine out….later…” Jason said. “I’ll probably just work with Elle a bit more.”

I nodded, jumping out. I went to the sauna to dry off before putting my gi back on and walking to Vixen’s lab. “Well, here we are.”

“Still can’t believe that they put an empty bag.” Vixen said, sliding her key card. The door opened to a dance studio on one side and what looked like a forest and a few carriages. “Wow, it reminds me of home.”

She walked over to the carriages, opening one to pull out a crystal ball and some tarot cards. “Well, they got some things right.” she said, “Care for a fortune reading?”

“Why not.” Chen said. All 3 of us sat down in front of her.

“Alright… I’m going to need you to pick from the cards… three each.”

We nodded, each taking three cards. I had never had a reading before so this was new.

“Alright.. Now focus on a question you have. Not a silly thing, but something that is important to you.” she said.

“The wellbeing of everyone here.” was what i originally thought until my mind said “Elle.”

“Now...flip your cards, one at a time.” Vixen said.

I flipped the first card. “The Upright High Priestess.” Vixen started. “Your life is mysterious but behind that is a higher power you possess.” then the next. “The Upright Tower; Impending change is in your path.” and then finally “The Reversed Devil; you will break free from bonds to reclaim yourself.”

I was shocked. My past was always a mystery, even to myself. The change could be anything. As well as the bonds.

“Now, to Elle.” Vixen said.

She nodded, and flipped the first card. “The Upright Death,” Vixen said, “Your past has changed, moving you into a new phase of life.” Elle flipped the second. “Oh, interesting. The Upright Temperance,” Vixen said, “Something you’ve desired has come into fruition.” And the final card, “The upright Sun,” Vixen said, “You’re approaching an important decision that could change your life. Take this moment to your advantage and you will achieve a future of possibility.”

“And now, Chen.” She said, as Chen flipped the first card. “Oh my. The Reversed Wheel of Fortune. Your past was out of control, almost torn away.” Chen tensed, flipping the next. “The Upright Death. That time has ended, as a new beginning has filled it full.” he smiled flipping the final card. “The reverse Moon. By releasing your fear, the future will shine like the moon.”

“Whoa.” i said. “That was…..great.”

“I’m not too sure it answered my question….” Elle said.

“It’s always up to interpretation. A Witch never reveals the full story.” Vixen said, winking as she got up.

“Can i….try?” i asked. “On you?”

“If you want.” Vixen said, “Just be careful with them.”

I nodded as she picked three. The first. She gasped. “Upright Death.”

“That means the end of one thing.” Chen said.

Next was. “Reverse Hermit. Isolation. Alone.” Vixen said, a look of fear on her face.

“So… that’s not a good thing…?” Elle asked.

And last “The Upright Death!” she said, running out of the room.

“What was that about?” asked Chen.

“It means, Vixen has another ending.” I said. “Which is bad.” these card showed more than that. Vixen would leave us soon.

“N-no way….” Elle said, “I won’t believe that…”

“We should go.” i said, walking out of the lab. The cards were still in my hand. I quickly hid them. “I am sorry. But this must be done.”i walked out of the courtyard, straight to my shared lab. “Sometimes, we all do things we regret. This is what i must do to make this a reality. Sorry, Veronica. Sorry, Vixen.” i opened Veronica’s desk drawer and put the cards there, and for good measure, damaged them with a letter opener. I closed the drawer and walked out, heading back to my room and changed. Soon, it was dinner and as i walked in.

“Eric!” Vixen yelled, “Where are my cards?!” she sounded worried.

“Calm down. I left them in your carriage.” I lied.

“......like they should be, good.” She said, sitting down.

“What’s this about cards?” asked Jason, walking in with Elle over his shoulder, her laughing and trying to get him to put her down.

“Vixen has fortune cards, which she read for us. But she got a bad reading and ran.” I said, sitting. “And why is she like that?” i pointed to Elle.

“Challenged me to a race… I beat her and caught her.” Jason said.

“So that is why she is giggling.” I said, smiling.

“Well, I may have given her something to drink…” Jason said, putting her down, “and that’s why she’s giggling….”

“Wait, what?” i asked. “Drink?!”

“Relax, it was just some alcohol…” he said.

“That was such a bad idea…” Vixen said, facepalming.

“You have alcohol? But we are still in high school.” i said.

“Relax, i got it from Phantom. The guy has some in his side of the lab.” Jason said.

“And you still gave it to her?” Michiko asked.

“She agreed to it.” Jason said. “It’s not like I’d force it down her throat.”

“Wow.” said Kosuke.

“But, yeah,” Jason said, “She’s a little drunk.”

“A little?” Michiko asked, “She’s laughing like crazy. That’s not a little.”

“Maybe first time getting drunk?” Chen asked. Thats when Veronica walked in.

“Hey, guys.” she said,  sitting down. But Vixen noticed something on her blazer.

“VERONICA!” Vixen yelled, standing and pulling her away by the ear.

“Vixen?” I asked standing. “Cmon, we need to follow her.”

“Yeah, I’d hate for something to happen to Veronica…” Jason said, getting up to follow. Elle started to follow, as well. “No. You… stay.” Jason said, pushing her into a chair. “You don’t need to move around right now.”

We ran to my lab, as Vixen forced her to open it. “Now, WHERE ARE MY CARDS!”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about!” Veronica said, “Cards?”

“Vixen, i swear, they are in-” i started.

“SHE HAS THEM!” she yelled, pulling her to the desk. “SEARCH!”

“Bu-but.” Veronica stuttered.

“NOW!” Vixen yelled, as Veronica opened the drawer and Vixen screamed, grabbing a letter opener and tried to attack Veronica.

“Vixen!” Jason yelled, grabbing her arm. “What the hell is wrong with you?!”

“She ripped them! She fucking ripped the cards!” she yelled.

“I d-don’t even know what you’re talking about!” Veronica yelled back.

“Let’s get you out of here, Veronica.” i said, helping her up and out of the lab. “So you didn’t do it?”

“No, I’ve never seen those cards before in my life. No clue how they got in there…” Veronica said. “Unless…” she looked at me.

“No, I didn’t do it. I have nothing against her at all. I just had a day of fun with her, Elle, Jason and Chen.” i said, “But someone might have gotten a hold of my Keycard.” i said, checking myself. “Oh no.”

“You misplaced it?” she asked.

“I might have.” i said, lying. Of course i had it, but i knew how to plant it.

“Great,” she muttered. “Now there’s no clue who could have done this until we find the keycard…”

“Let go of me!” Vixen yelped, being pushed out of the room by Jason.

“Don’t fucking touch her!” he growled out, pushing her away from Veronica. This was similar to how he acted while fighting Elle...crazed and angry. “...I need a slushie…” he muttered.

“Coke or Cherry?” Veronica asked, “I’ll fix it for you…”

“...cherry.” he said, as the two of them walked back to the dining hall.

Elle’s POV

I got bored, and began to walk around, passing Jason and Veronica on the way out. I told them I felt better, and continued walking. Eventually, I went to the media room which was near Veronica and Eric’s lab and set up a karaoke machine. I put in a song code, and began singing when the cue came up. What I didn’t expect was that someone might listen in or be watching. It was a song from Moulin Rouge, a duet to be precise (An: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Mlig-z9OJg). I had programmed it to only have the girl’s part as the Karaoke with the male still being sung. “Love is a many splendored thing/Love lifts us up where we belong/ All you need is love.” started the recorded man.

“Please don't start that again,” I said, looking down. This was familiar… Way too familiar… It brought back bad memories, actually.

“All you need is love,” the man sang.

“A girl has got to eat,” I replied, stepping away.

“All you need is love,” the man sang.

“She'll end up on the street!” I said, sighing.

“All you need is love,” the man sang.

“Love is just a game,” I sang in response crossing my arms.

“I was made for loving you baby,” the man sang, “You were made for loving me.”

“The only way of loving me baby,” I sang, “Is to pay a lovely fee.”

“Just one night,” the man sang, “Just one night.”

“There's no way,” I sang, “Cause you can't pay.”

“In the name of love,” sang the man, “One night in the name of love.”

“You crazy fool,” I sang, “I won't give in to you.”

“Don't leave me this way,” the man sang, “I can't survive without your sweet love/ Oh baby don't leave me this way.”

“You think that people would have enough of silly love songs,” I sang, closing my eyes. It was true, I hated love songs. It annoyed me most of the time. Ever since that day...

“I look around me and I see it isn't so, oh no,” sang the man.

“Some people wanna fill the world with silly love songs,” I sang.

“Well what's wrong with that?” the man sang, “I'd like to know/ Cause here I go again/ Love lifts us up where we belong/ Where the eagles fly/ On a mountain high…”

“Love makes us act like we are fools,” I sang, “Throw our lives away/ For one happy day.”

“We can be heroes,” the man sang, “Just for one day.”

“You, you will be mean,” I sang, stepping back. And he was.

“No I won't,” he said.

“And I, I'll drink all the time!” I sang.

“We should be lovers,” the man sang.

“We can't do that.” I sang.

“We should be lovers,” he sang, “And that's a fact.”

“Though nothing will keep us together,” I sang.

“We could steal time,” he sang.

“Just for one day,” we sang together, “We can be heroes/ Forever and ever/ We can be heroes/ Forever and ever/ We can be heroes.”

“Just because I, and I will always love you,” the man sang.

“I and I,” I sang, overlapping his voice.

“Can’t help loving…” we both sang.

“You…” the man sang.

“How wonderful life is now,” I sang.

“You’re in the world…” I sang with the recording, before it went over to the next song on that specific CD. Tango de Roxanne, but I didn’t sing this one. Memories were flooding back.

“You are an amazing singer.” said a voice behind me, i jumped and turned on who it was. And of course it was Chen.

“Oh, you scared me.” I said, calming down. “A-and I don’t think I’m that great…”

“Oh please.” he said, smiling. “I know great talent.” he sat down, noticing a box lying around. “What the?”

“W-we probably shouldn’t touch them… You never know, that could be the next motive…” I said.

“And yet, Monokuma never said we couldn’t see a motive early.” he said, smiling.

“..true…” I said, “But are you sure it’s a good idea?”

“My ideas are never good.” he said, picking up the box and setting it next to the both of us.

“...well, let’s see what this is all about, then.” I said, opening the box.

Inside were a bunch of dvds. “Weird. Does Monokuma love movies?” Chen asked.

“...wait… these have our names on them…” I said, confused. Why would Monokuma have something with our names on them?

Chen fished his out. “Well, one way to find out.” he said, opening the case.

I nodded, pulling mine out of the box as well. “We should watch them privately… they might have some sensitive material on them.” I said, walking over to a computer.

He nodded, going to one on the other side of the room. We popped in the discs. For a second, nothing happened. But soon, an image appeared on the screen.

At first, it was Monokuma. “Hello, there, Princess Elle Romanova.” he said, “It seems like you haven’t been truthful to everyone now, have you?” I blinked. “What is he talking about?” “You see, I dug up a little secret of yours… a secret I’m sure you wouldn’t want to get out, seeing as it’ll ruin your little ‘innocent’ princess reputation.” A man appeared on screen. Black hair and dark eyes. A sneer was on his face. “No… i-it can’t be!” “I’m sure you remember this guy? Your… rapist?” I jolted back from the screen, turning off the dvd before it could continue.

Chen walked over, visibly stricken. “Whoa…….that was not right.” he said.

“Y-yeah…” I said, my breathing uneven. I was terrified. “...I’m not even going to ask about yours… You look pretty shocked…”

“You have no idea.” he said, as Eric walked in.

“Whoa, what is thi-” he started before seeing our faces. “Oh no.”

“Y-yeah… next motive…” I said, starting to walk past him.

“You both okay?” he asked. “Should i be worried?”

“No. To both questions.” I said, a bit too fast.

“.....if you need to be alone, i understand.” he said. “I will check this out, see what we have this time.”

“I'll inform the others.” Chen said, running out of the room.

“...it’s blackmail…” I said. “Total fucking blackmail.” If I wasn’t trying to keep everything in right now, I would have hit something from how frustrated I was.

Eric grabbed his disc. “Well, whatever it is, it will not affect me.” he said, confident.

“I don’t know, it brought back some pretty horrible memories for me…” I muttered. “Not like I’ll ever forget that….” I almost wanted to continue watching my disc, but seeing that man’s face again scared me so much that I stayed away from the computer I had been using.

Eric’s face went from annoyance, to shock, fear then to scary calm. “N-n-n-n-n-no!” He said, almost screaming.

“E-Eric?” I asked, moving closer to him.

“.........You were right.” he said, shaken. He was holding himself.

I went to hug him, but hesitated. I was scared...more than I ever had been. “I-if you want to talk about it….?” I started.

“It was the past i couldn’t remember.” he said. “Well….Here.” he rewound it and pressed play.

Monokuma appeared. “Hello, Eric. Looks like you can’t remember your past. Well, here we go, let’s see if you remember this!” then the screen was full of gruesome images of a child being tortured. I looked away, hearing the screams of pain and anguish. “See, not much of the bright past you were told only four years ago!” the video ended.

Eric took out the disc, placing it back in the case. “You see, this was what i was unable to remember for i blocked it subconsciously.”

I nodded, tearing up a little. “I s-see…” I said.

“For me, this isn't blackmail. This is just cruel to show me after all this time.” he said, standing. “I need some ice cream.”

“...Wait…” I said, grabbing his sleeve. “...you showed me yours… it’s only fair I show you mine…”

He nodded, as we walked over to the computer it was in. “this better not make this day any worse.”

“No promises…” I said, rewinding the disc from the place I had stopped it and pressed play. The intro played, before things got a bit worse. A recording of the events began playing, the man laughing a bit as I tried to fight back, screaming for help to no avail. I shut my eyes and turned away, knowing what was happening.

Eric couldn’t look away from the screen. When it ended, he said one word. “Dark.”

“I-it was horrible…” I said taking the disc out. “...I understand if you don’t…” I couldn’t bring myself to say those words. “If you don’t want to stay with me.”

“This changes nothing. But whenever this game is done, i will find that guy and rip his balls off!” Eric said. “With your strength, it wouldn’t surprise me.”

I smiled a little, hugging him. “And I’ll make sure that group that tortured you pays for what they’ve done.” I said.

“Yeah. now, lets go get some ice cream and calm down.” he said.

I nodded, smiling a bit more. “C’mon, then.” I said, starting to pull him out the room, leaving the disc in the box with the others.

Eric pocketed his. “If i forget, this is to remind me.” he said, as we walked out.

I nodded, walking next to him. “I’m sure you won’t…” I said, taking his hand.

“Who knows.” he said, as we went into the dining hall. Chen and Coralia were sitting, enjoying a funny turtle.

“Oh, my god. So adorable!” Chen said, squealing.

“He really is, isn’t he?” Coralia giggled. “So cute!”

“I see you’re in a better mood now.” I said, smiling.

He looked up. “Oh yeah, lets just say cute animals are my weakness.”

“Aren’t they everyone’s weakness?” asked Coralia.

“Depends on the animal.” I said, “Puppies and kittens are totally mine…”

Chen squealed again. “SO CUTE!” he said.

Coralia laughed. “Well,” I said, starting to walk away from them, “We’re just going to get something from the kitchen…”

They nodded, as we walked in, grabbing the ice cream of our choice and went out to the courtyard. “Might as well enjoy the sunset.” Eric said.

I smiled, “Reminds me of Kingdom Hearts…” I said, before blushing, looking down. “Sorry, I’m a bit of a nerd sometimes…”

“Its cute.” he said. “Makes me want to enjoy some games, or better yet, manga.”

“It’d be fun,” I said, smiling, “Reading or playing with you… I’d enjoy that a lot…”

He smiled, “That would be nice.” he said.

I giggled, “Someday we will… after this Battle Royale situation.” I ate a bit of my ice cream, before getting an idea. “...Hey, Eric?”

“Hm?” Eric looked over, the spoon in his mouth.

I put a little ice cream on my finger and booped his nose. “Boop,” I said, laughing.

“Hey!” he said, before flicking some at me.

“Ah!” I said, laughing, “I’m just t-trying to have a little fun!”

“Fun?” he said, before picking me up.

“Whoa!” I exclaimed, “W-what are you doing?”

“Well.” he said, smiling, “We are going to take a dip!” he walked to the pool and jumped.

I let out a small shriek, holding on a bit tighter.

We landed in the water and quickly surfaced. Eric was laughing.

I smiled. “You are insane...but I love it.” I said, kissing his cheek.

“Its not a bad thing.” he said, smiling.

“Well, you aren’t ‘psychopathic serial killer’ insane… just the right amount of crazy.” I said, smiling back. “And that’s very good…”

“I see.” he said, before we got out. “Good thing i am not a bad….person?” he looked at the closest trash can. “My Keycard?”

“Huh?” I asked, looking at him.

He pulled the card out. “I knew i lost it.” he said. “But…...why was it here?”

“Not sure,” I replied, “Maybe it fell out while you were fighting Chen earlier?”

“Maybe.” he said, pocketing it. “Well, lets get back inside and get some sleep.”

I looked down. “I’m going to go to my lab… work on that dress…” I said, “I don’t think I’ll sleep too well after that video….”

“Neither will I, but least we could do is try.” he said.

I nodded. “I’ll try in a little…” I said, running my hand through my hair. “I just...want to see something first…”

“…?” He looked at me.

“...Mona….” I said, wrapping my arms around myself. “I want to see if she’s still there… I haven’t been able to make myself enter that room since.”

He nodded, as we went to the lab. “Are you sure you want to see?” Eric asked.

I nodded. “I need to.” I said, “I’d hate to never enter it again because she was there…” I entered my keycard and opened the door. After entering, I saw that everything was the way it was before the murder. There wasn’t any blood anywhere, and everything was in its place. Mona’s body was missing.

“What the?” Eric asked. “It's all gone.”

“Like it never even happened…” I said, walking over to my side of the room, picking up the umbrella. “Cleaned, too…”

“It looks like no murder had occurred.” He replied.

“Yeah…” I said, putting the umbrella back down. I walked over to her side.“Mona… I’m so sorry I couldn’t have been there…” I felt my legs buckle from underneath me, making me fall to the ground in a sitting position. I whispered a soft prayer for the dead, and blessed the room in my native French before, “May nothing bad occur here again… only positive energies pass through this door.”

“Elle.” Eric said, sitting next to me. “This wasn’t your fault. If you would have helped, you could have been in the same position. And….” he stopped.

“...and?” I asked, looking at him.

“And then we wouldn’t have gotten together.” He said, before gingerly rubbing my cheek.

I blushed a little, moving towards his touch. “Y-yeah,” I said, “You’re right.”

“Mona would have been happy we got together.” Eric said. “And we will not let her death be in vain.”

“...honestly, I think she was trying to set us up.” I said, laughing a little. “She could tell that I liked you…”

He smiled. “Yeah.” he said, the night time announcement going off behind us. “We should head back to the dorms. Before someone thinks we are next.”

I nodded, standing. “Right.” I said, smiling. “And if anything bothers you...my door metaphorically is always open? I mean… totally lock it, but still…. You know what I mean.”

‘Of course. And same here.” he said, as we walked back. Chen was sitting outside his room.  “Oh, hey Chen.”

“We need to see the other videos.” he said. “Because i just saw Veronica and Vixen get at it again, this time, with expletives.”

“...is it really a good idea to watch other people’s videos without their permission?” I asked, “I know I wouldn’t want anyone to snoop around and watch mine…”

“Look, this could save a life. I do not care about privacy right now!” Chen replied, a little loudly.

“Calm down.” Eric said.

Chen took a deep breath. “Sorry. But this game is fucking with my mind.”

“It’s messing with all of us,” I said. “If you think it could help, fine. But...can we wait until morning for this?”

“Sure.” Chen said. “This has been bothering me since i saw my own.” he walked into his room, locking it behind him.

“Ok……” Eric said. “That was odd.”

“Yeah….” I said, “I wonder what his was…”

“Probably very bad.” Eric replied. “We can see tomorrow.”

I nodded, walking over to my room. “Well… tomorrow, I guess all of our secrets will be out…”

“Yep. but i think that will just make things less bloody.” he said, before walking to his door. “Night Elle.”

“Night, Eric.” I said, opening my door.

We both went in our rooms. But Chen’s attitude was off. Or did a complete 180?

“...damn it, you cat-boy…” I muttered, getting up and fixing my nightgown. “Getting me curious…” I walked over to the door, mostly because I knew that my curiosity would lead me back to the media room.

His was neatly placed at the bottom. I picked it out before putting it in the closest monitor. It was blank until. “Hello, Chen Soineko, or should i call you, Chen Hēisè Zōng Máo. You are running from the past you once knew, the Cat Clawed Thief. You murder hundreds for self gain before the Yakuza found you. You ran again, switching who you were. Maybe you should run, before you lose sight of this!” a picture of a peaceful village appeared before, images of disease and famine appeared on the screen before blacking out.

“Oh my…” I started, blinking. I ejected the disc and put it back in it’s case.

“So, you saw it before morning.” I jumped, as Chen walked up. “Information does come with a price……”

I stood up quickly, looking at him. “L-look, I just…” I started. “I was curious… and I just….” I looked down, knowing I was in the wrong, and that I was in no position to explain myself. “I-I’m sorry. What I did was unforgivable. I-I’ll do anything...” “‘I’ll do anything’… that’s what I said to that other guy… before he…”

Chen just laughed. “You honestly thought i would take something?” he asked. “But yeah. I stole, but for my home, my friends, family.” he looked away. “I ran hoping I could find a way to save them. That's when i went to the internet, dressed as a cat. I raised a lot of money, but I don’t know if it will help now.”

“I see…” I said, “Well, if you need anything, I’m willing to help any way I can.”

He smiled, before hearing a scream. “.....That came from…..The courtyard!”

“C-come on!” I said, rushing out the room.

We ran out to the courtyard, and then the sound of blood hit our ears. “Where….?” Chen asked. But we heard screaming where the water from the pool went. “Oh no! Veronica!”

I ran over. “H-help me with this! We need to get her out!” I said.

Chen nodded, trying to open the tank, but even with his strength. “I…..I cant.” He said as we watched from the top. Veronica struggled, screaming as we tried again. But it was in vain as she asphyxiated, and got sucked into the fan below. We both cringed, as the pool became blood red. “No….NO NO NO!” he sank to his knees.

“V-Veronica…” I whispered, shaking my head. “T-this… can’t be happening…”

Chen punched the tank, which broke, and he fell in. “AAAAAHHHH!” he yelled. “HELP!”

I reached out. “GRAB ON!” I yelled. He grabbed my hand. “SOMEONE HELP!”

Good thing there were people still up. Jason and Vixen ran up, quickly helping me, as Eric cut off the power. “Cmon, Chen. we got you!” Vixen said, pulling hard.

“Geez, what happened, anyway?” Jason asked, pulling even harder. I hesitated to answer. He was close with Veronica.

“Someone got her!” Chen yelled, running to the pool and sinking to his knees. “NO!”

“Her?” asked Jason.

“....Veronica….” I said, looking down. “We...we tried to help, but...we couldn’t get the tank open…”

Jason was silent. But I could tell he was both sad and pissed. Vixen on the other hand, started to cry.

“Vixen…?” I asked, looking at her, confused.

“I….blamed her fo-or my c-c-cards. …..Now i-i-i will b-be b-b-blamed for t-this!” she said, as she cried more.

“Vixen, you were framed.” Eric said. “I knew it as soon as I noticed my Keycard was missing.”

“...” I looked down, thinking, before the body discovery announcement played. “Let’s just start investigating. The faster we discover who did this, the better.”

## Deadly Life

“Yeah.” Chen said, as Jason picked up something in the pool. It was a weird package, a string package. “Hm? A package for string?”

“The string was probably meant to bound her… though, did you notice any string on her?” I asked, looking at Chen. “I was too focused trying to open the tank to really notice anything…”

“I did, it was binding her legs. Obviously to keep her from swimming that well.” He replied, as he checked the tank. “Hey, Jason?” He looked over. “Can you hold my legs? There is something at the bottom.”

“Sure,” Jason quietly replied.

“Just be careful. Someone should keep an eye on the power, just in case…” I said.

Eric nodded. Chen went under, grabbing what he saw. He signalled to pull up, which Jason did. “It's a music sheet.” Chen said. “Looks like it was used to write a note. Lets see….. ‘Please come to the courtyard, i need some music to calm me down. -Veronica.’”

“Why would she write it on a music sheet?” Jason asked, “That...doesn’t sound like her…”

“It doesn’t. More like this was used to put blame on someone else.” Eric said, checking the monokuma file. “It looks like she died from drowning. But was sucked through the filter, which has a fan like apparatus to catch debris…….”

“S-she didn’t deserve this…” Vixen said, wiping her eyes.

“...No. She didn’t.” Jason said, looking at the pool.

“So… if the note was on a music sheet…” I started, pacing slightly, before shaking my head, “But they wouldn’t…. Would they…?”

“You are thinking it was Shiro or Yuki, right?” Eric asked.

I nodded. “I don’t know anyone else that would randomly have some music sheets to write on.”

“I swear, if one of those-” started Jason, his voice slightly different. Scarier, actually.

“Jason!” Vixen yelled, standing. “We can’t kill them. Let them stand trial!” Geez, for a girl that was just crying, she was ferocious!

“You have no idea how much she meant to me.” Jason growled out.

“Jason Dean Rey, Vixen is right.” I said, “You can’t take matters into your own hands even if she meant so much to you.”

“She is right.” Eric said. “Which is why we are watching their videos.”

“...” Jason nodded, “Then let’s do it now… before things decide to get worse.”

I nodded, though I was surprised at Jason’s attitude change. He went from pretty solemn to...psychotic in two seconds?

Chen checked the edge of the broken glass lid. “No wonder we couldn't open it. It was sealed with extremely powerful glue.”

“...I can’t believe it happened so fast…” I said, looking down.

“Wait…..” Vixen said, looking at the door. “Mud prints!”

“So the culprit didn’t cover their damn tracks!” Jason exclaimed, “We should follow them!”

“We could…. But we should see their videos first.” I said, trying to calm Jason down. “Look through a different angle.”

“If their fucking tracks lead to who it is, that’s more important, don’t you think, Princess?!” Jason yelled at me.

“Jason!” Chen yelled. “The tracks end there. This is where the shoes came off.”

“...oh…” Jason said, “Damn it… Thought we had something there.”

“We will. The motive videos can help us find out the truth.” Vixen said.

“Right…” He said, looking back at the pool. “Damn it, Veronica… why’d it have to be you?”

“We wish we knew.” Eric said.

“The videos could give us some proof? Some sort of…. Reason why…” I said, starting to walk back inside.

“...we’re just watching the music freaks’ videos, right?” Jason asked.

“And Veronica’s.” Chen said, as we entered the media room. He picked out all three.

Jason grabbed Veronica’s from him. “I don’t think that’s such a good idea, cat-boy.” he said.

“Why not?” I asked, placing my hands on my hips. “I think we should know.”

“Um… just…” he started, nervously.

“Hm…? Just what?” I pressed.

He sighed. “I know what’s on it already…. And trust me, you guys aren’t going to like hearing it… It’s pretty much the same that’s on mine…”

“It doesn’t matter,” Vixen said, “We need to know what’s on these discs!”

“...She and I were in a relationship, okay? And I’m not exactly… telling you the truth about who I am.” Jason said.

“Then either you tell us, or we find out ourselves.” I said, crossing my arms. “Your choice.”

Chen took the disc and put it in the slot. “I don’t care how messed up it is, we are watching these.” he said, as the screen turned on.

“Hello, Veronica Sawyer.” Monokuma said, “Little miss lawyer has a secret, hm? Dating Jason Dean Rey… or should I call him J.D? You helped him keep his little murders secret. Even helped on a few? Looks like you aren’t so innocent after you killed your best friend.” A picture of a blonde girl popped up, something blue dripping down from her mouth. “I’m sure you’re itching to kill again.” The screen went black.

“...Told you.” Jason said.

Chen looked away. “Our pasts are dark, aren’t they.” he said, removing the disc.

“Darker than I thought…” I said. “Why’d she kill her?”

“She hated her. They weren’t friends, they were enemies.” Jason said. “It was a small mistake…”

“A mistake that cost a life, Jason.” Eric said. No one cares that he murdered people?!

“I didn’t think she’d do it!” Jason said, “It was a joke. I poured liquid drainer in a cup, she grabbed the wrong cup and gave it to her.”

“Wait…” I said. “...You killed people.” Jason gulped, looking away from me.

“Yeah…. I did…” he quietly said, “But I’d never hurt Veronica. Ever.”

“....let’s just look at the other discs…” Vixen said. “I believe him…”

“Y-yeah.” I said, grabbing the next disc and putting it into the monitor.

“Yuki Desmond,” began Monokuma, “you haven’t told the truth now, have you? Your mother died from an incurable disease, and you deny that you have inherited that disease yourself.” Pictures of a funeral to various hospital visits and therapy began flipping through on the screen. “You’re terrified of death, but won’t allow anyone to know in case it comes to you dying.” The screen went black.

“Whoa.” Eric said, looking at us. “That’s not just dark. That's messed up beyond dark.”

“You can say that again…” said Vixen. “Why wouldn’t she tell us…?”

“Weren’t you listening?” Jason asked.

“She...didn’t want us to know in case she died next…” I said.

“But she is still alive, not mentioning it isn't going to help her at all.” said Chen. “I hate to say it, but we need to reveal these to everyone.”

“...great...more people knowing I’m a murderer…” Jason said.

“Just...let’s see the last one…” I said, ejecting Yuki’s disc to put in Shiro’s.

“Lets see if this gives us some info.” Eric said, before touching his arms. Where his scars might be…..

“...And after this...we all should come clean.” I said, “There’s things we’ve all hidden. Or in some cases, forgot.” I looked at the monitor as it flickered.

“Hello, Shiro. Seems like you still think your music is original? Think again! You stole from other artists and got away with it easily, but soon, you were called to trial, with Veronica against you. You told her to help free you from this, but she denied it flatly. Is this why you started becoming this ‘Savior of Justice?’” the screen flashed with images of people who were set up in the crimes they commited. “We shall see how your ‘justice’ takes you here, Baron Von Gerechtigkeit!” the screen went blank.

“....what the hell?” asked Vixen.

“Murder…..for justice?” Chen asked.

“...I think I see what happened…” I said, nodding. “And why it was Veronica.”

“I’ll kill that guy with my own two hands.” growled Jason.

“Jason!” Vixen yelled. “No!”

“I hate to say it, but...let Monokuma have him.” I said. “It’s unforgivable.”

“...So the Princess has a dark side.” Jason said, “What’s yours, then? Your secret?”

“...I was raped.” I said. Vixen let out an audible gasp. “I was cornered. I said I’d do anything, and he took advantage of that. I couldn’t do anything and let him go free. It’s not like anyone would have believed me.”

“Oh, Elle…” Vixen said.

“And I took care of things privately… just in case…” I said, looking down.

Chen and Eric looked away. “Well. we should reveal ours next.” Chen said, as Vixen interrupted him. She took out Shiro’s and put hers in.

“It's time you knew the true me.” she said, as the screen flashed.

“Hello, there, Vixen Liselotte. The little Witch girl who hides the fact her family was killed in front of her.” Monokuma started, as a picture flashed up of the event, “The Witch that ran and hid everything. Running from your past can’t save you forever. Those people that killed them are after you too. And who knows, one of them might be here. You never know.”

“Vixen…” I started, touching her shoulder.

“I-it was a long time ago… I didn’t know what to do. It wasn’t like the police would believe me.” she said.

“Vixen.” Chen said, comforting her. “You can't change the past, but we can help your future.”

She smiled. “Thanks,” she said. “Well… with that one out of the way…”

Eric pulled out his. “I’ll go next.” he took out Vixen’s and put his in.

I took his hand, as the video began playing. “Geez…” Jason muttered, “And I thought my past was bad.”

“Well, the thing was, i was told a lie.” Eric said, as we heard the screams of pain and agony. “I was given a fabricated past…..”

“Whoa…” Vixen said, “Not cool.”

“Eric…” Chen said. “You have out of all the ones I have seen, the worst and possibly most fucked up one.”

“Yeah, its pretty bad.” He said, taking it out. “Your turn.”

Chen put his in. but for some reason, the words were different. “Hello, Chen. you think you being an ex thief on the run was bad? Well, you destroyed someone’s life for that, or am i wrong?” the image from Vixen’s video returned, making Chen jump up. “Well? Don’t you have someone to beg for forgiveness for?” the image ended.

Chen looked at Vixen. “No, he is lying!” he yelled, pulling the disc out a breaking it.

“That video...wasn’t what we saw before…” I said.

“I… don’t know…” Vixen slowly said. “I want to believe you, but…”

“If not him, then trust me.” I said, making her look at me. “That video wasn’t at all the same one I saw less than twenty minutes ago before the murder. It was more about him being this thief on the run, wanting to help his home, and the video ended after that. I waited and nothing else came.”

“...okay.” Vixen said, but there was still a hint of doubt in her voice. Jason grabbed a disc from the box, and popped it into the monitor. “Who’s is that? Yours?”

“Nope. Elle’s.” he said. “I’m curious.”

“But I told you-” I started.

“I want to see who did it.” he said, as the video began playing. I winced as that part began playing.

“W-who are you?”

“Don’t worry about who I am, Princess. Worry about you.”

“P-please, d-don’t hurt me! I-I’ll do anything!”

“Anything?”

“Y-yes.”

“Now that’s what I like to hear…” his voice turned rougher, crueler, “Look at me, bitch. Now, that’s more like it. You know Moulin Rouge?” I had nodded. “Good… You play Satine… I’m the duke.” Then...everything else happened. He was rough, slapped me more than a few times.

I turned around, tearing up. “P-please stop…” I whispered, to no avail. Jason kept his eyes on the video.

“Jason, stop!” Chen yelled, picking Jason up by his neck.

“Whoa, whoa, calm down!” Jason said, shocked.

“Maybe you haven't noticed, but the victim of that is right here.” Chen said, pointing at me. “As for what was on that disc, it was a lie. I would never kill to save my home. Its…..all I have left.” He put jason back down and curled into a fetal position.

Vixen nodded. “Okay… I believe you.” she said.

“...damn…” Jason said, rubbing his neck. “Can’t a guy worry about someone?”

I knelt down to Chen. “Hey… it’s not all you have now… You have us.” I said, trying to smile, but I knew it wouldn’t really show.

He sat up. “This motive. It has shown how fucked up our pasts are. But i think it has brought us closer as we have nothing to hide anymore.” He said, “Now, we need to make Shiro pay for killing Veronica.”

“And believe me, he has hell to pay.” Jason growled. I looked up at him and blinked. It looked like his eyes were red there for a second. I shook my head and stood.

“Let’s just get this over with… Why can’t we just live for a day without anyone killing anyone else?” I asked.

“Because the world’s fucked up.” Vixen said, starting to head out. “Meet you guys there. I wanted to get something to drink beforehand… calm down a bit.”

“Mind if i join?” Chen asked. “I seriously need something strong.”

“If you don’t mind it being whiskey?” Vixen asked.

“Anything works.” he said, standing.

“Drink responsibly!” I said, as the two of them left. I turned, looking at Jason and Eric, Jason staring back at me. “....what?”

“Why did you say you’d do anything?” he asked.

“...” I looked away. “Why do you think I would, idiot?”

“Guys.” Eric said. “Come on, we don’t need this. Especially after all, we will know about everyone soon enough.”

Jason made a sound of annoyance. “But this is your girlfriend here.” he said, “Doesn’t that seem… I don’t know, weird?”

“...Not. Now.” I said, glaring at Jason before leaving the room.

I heard Eric yell at Jason, which led to a retort. I didn’t care.

“Elle?” Michiko said, walking from the courtyard, her arms full of stuff from the store. “You…..don’t look so good.”

“Jason just pissed me off a bit.” I said, “And with this whole thing going on right now… and revealing to some people what was on my video… I really didn’t need it.” I took a shaky breath. “D-do you want some help?”

“I do, actually. Seraphina needed some products, so i offered. I was already heading there anyway.” She said, as she handed me some bags. “As for the videos…...Yeah, they weren’t flattering.”

“...you could say that…” I said. “Or life-ruining.” “So… Where to?”

“Seraphina is in the dining hall. We said we would meet there, to discuss what we saw, but it looks like you would rather be in hell.” Michiko said, as we started walking there.

“It’s not that I’d rather be in hell,” I said, “It’s more like… Jason asked a question about my video, and… I don’t know, it seemed like a perfectly logical thing to say, but…” I looked at her. “What would you say if you were cornered and frightened that the person cornering you would hurt you?”

“I would have done anything. But i would try to fight if i could.” She said, before looking at me. “Wait, you don’t mean…..”

I looked down. “If you’re thinking that I was...well, raped… y-yeah.” I said, sighing. “And that’s exactly what I said. And I tried fighting, but he was too strong…”

Michiko dropped her bags and hugged me. “You didn’t deserve that…” she said, “you deserve to be pure. But someone ruined that.” she let me go. “We will make sure that doesn’t ruin your life anymore!”

I smiled. “Thank you, Michiko.” I said, “I was worried that things would change… especially between Eric and I, but… he didn’t change his mind about me at all.”

“I haven’t had time to talk with him, but i have seen he has been in pain for a long time. And when he sees you, he brightens like the sun. and i don’t blame him.” She said, picking up the bags and we entered the dining hall.

“There you are!” Seraphina said, “...what is she doing here?”

“I was helping. I needed to get away from someone for a little bit.” I said, walking over to the table and setting the bags down.

Michiko set her bags. “And i felt as she needed some people who can understand her pain.” She said, pulling out a chair for me.

“Thank you,” I said, sitting down.

“Oh, come on, serving little miss perfect?” Seraphina said, “I’m sure her ‘blackmail’ was all sunshine and roses.” “Geez, like you’d know…”

“Well, why don’t i begin.” Michiko said. “You know me as Michiko Hamada, Ultimate Ballerina. But in truth.” she looked away. “I am the Ultimate Yakuza Princess, Michiru Swan Shinoda.”

“What?” asked Seraphina. “You? Yakuza?”

“...You were always pretty fast with your movements… and so precise. Like one would be with a sword.” I said, “But I can see that you wouldn’t cause harm without reason. Or if you weren’t ordered to...”

“...hm…” Seraphina started, sitting back. “I...was forced into a relationship with a family friend… And moved as far away as possible to get away from an arranged marriage.”

“That sounds like a bad time.” Michiko said.

“Guy didn’t take no for an answer.” Seraphina said, shrugging. “Thought it’d be best if I left.”

“Yeah… that does make sense…” I said, wrapping my arms around me as Seraphina’s almost golden eyes turned to me.

“What is yours?” she asked. I stayed silent.

“Do you want me to say?” asked Michiko.

I shook my head. “It’s just hard to get out sometimes… after keeping it secret for so long.” I said. Seraphina rose an eyebrow, looking between Michiko and I. “...Seraphina… I was raped…”

“...what...the hell…” she started.

Michiko walked into the kitchen. Probably to make some calming tea or something else.

“...what happened?” Seraphina asked. “Did you…?”

“...I took care of everything in secret. N-no one knew anything.” I said, “I was scared and didn’t know what else to do. I didn’t tell anyone because I didn’t think they’d believe me.” I looked at her. “And it’s because of my fear that he’d find me again that I never truly trusted anyone… I was always on guard… And always was armed until coming here.”

Seraphina looked at me, then stood, hugging me. I made a noise in surprise. “You are safe now. No one will hurt you again.” she said. Her voice wasn't sarcastic, or mean. It was sincere.

I slowly hugged her back. “I hope so.” I said, “And I hope you’re out of that marriage for good… He probably didn’t love you, anyway.”

“No. i don’t think he did.” She said, letting go as Michiko returned with tea and cakes.

“Whoa. How’d you fix that so fast?” I asked, grabbing a cake after she placed it down.

“The cakes were already fixed… just took a few minutes for the water to boil.” she said, smiling as she sat back down.

We looked at each other. “We are going to have to tell the others, won’t we?” Seraphina asked.

“Yeah…” I said, “Chen thinks it’s a good idea for everyone to come clean.”

“...great…” Michiko said. “Let’s hope this goes as well as it did last time… not.”

Eric’s POV

Our shouting match became a full fistfight. “You think you can understand?!” i yelled, glancing past his right ear.

“Yeah, I think I could, you dolt!” he yelled back, throwing a right hook at me. “If you just would have let me talk to her instead of letting her leave!”

“She is in pain!” I said, dodging. “We all are! Including you.”

His eyes flashed red. “You don’t fucking know my life.” He said. “You think I wouldn’t understand a girl like her?! You’re wrong.”

“Jason.” i said, “You just saw multiple dark pasts. However you focus on hers. Why?”

“...” He took a breath. “I hate seeing things like that happen to girls like her… Veronica...she was almost one of those victims once… I saved her. Killed the two idiots that tried to, but I saved her...I was trying to see who it was that did it… And the fact that she said she’d ‘do anything,’ it pisses me off. She should have known never to say that to anyone. Even someone she loves.” He looked away, his eyes returning to normal. “They’ll just use her until she’s bled dry. Lifeless. Without hope or love to hold on to.”

“Come on, Jason. Don’t judge her so soon. We all will understand each other soon.” i said. “Besides, you need to calm down. Getting riled up won’t help anyone.”

“...Yeah, you’re probably right… Want to go to the kitchen and get some slushies?” he asked. “It’s near the dining hall…”

“Sure, something sweet might calm me down.” I said, as we walked out. We ran into Dragomir and Alyss halfway there. “Yo.”

“Oh, hey.” Alyss said. “Coming from the media room?”

“Yeah.” I said, smiling. The Goth stylists were odd but they were great people.

“Were looking at a few of the videos for evidence…” Jason said. “We learned a bit about a few others, too.”

“Ah, we saw ours.” Dragomir said. “I hate that bear even more for it.”

“Don’t remind me…. It’s not exactly fun to remember.” Alyss said.

“Yeah…. Same here.” Jason said.

“Well, we were heading to the kitchen for slushies. Want to join?” I asked.

“Well…” Alyss started, looking at Dragomir. “Do you want to?”

“It would calm us down after seeing the courtyard…….poor Veronica.” Dragomir said.

“...yeah… Poor Veronica.” Jason said, walking past the goths.

“I’m guessing they were close…” Alyss said, starting to follow.

“Yeah, they knew each other before this.” I said.

“...that wasn’t a ‘just knew each other’ sound in his voice…” Alyss said. “They were closer than that…”

“Very.” I said, “But, i don’t think he wishes to speak about it.”

“No. I really don’t.” Jason said, from ahead of us. “Now come on…”

“...geez he has to be like that all the time, huh? So controlling…” Alyss muttered.

“Come on.” Dragomir said, as Chen walked in, carrying Vixen. “What the hell happened?”

“Well, we went to her lab to get a drink. But forgot to mention that she was a light drinker.” Chen said, wobbling slightly. I offered to help but he shook his head. “It's good. I can control myself.”

“If you say so…” Alyss said, stretching a little as we reached the dining hall, when Jason stopped, she walked right into him. “Ow. Why’d you-”

“...sh.” Jason said, covering her mouth. “Seems we aren’t the only ones who wanted to calm down.”

I looked at him but heard the voice of Seraphina, Michiko and Elle, chatting. “Ok, so?”

“So, remember she was looking pissed at me earlier?” Jason said.

“Who?” asked Alyss.

“Elle,” i said, before i looked back at Jason. “Still, why should that matter?”

“She looked like she would take the nearest thing and stab it into me.” he muttered. “It was awesome, but…”

“Well, I should go-” Seraphina said, as she started walking out of the dining hall. “Oh! What are you all doing out here?”

“We got walked up.” I lied. Dragomir, Alyss and Chen nodded. Jason just scowled.

“...well, I’m heading to the courtyard for a few moments… So I was just leaving.” Seraphina replied, “However Michiko made tea and has some cakes out, and Elle was just about to start dinner for all of us…”

“Thank you, Seraphina. Lets meet up in the morning, before noon.” I said, smiling.

She nodded. “Of course.” she said, before walking away.

“Hm...makes me think that she’s only sarcastic around Elle…” Alyss said, shrugging. “Well, let’s go in.” She walked in.

I followed, Dragomir, Chen and Jason were behind me. We saw Michiko sitting there, cleaning up the table. “Oh, hey everyone.” she said, smiling.

“Hey there.”I said, as we each took a seat. Chen sat Vixen in a chair next to him so he could help her at a moment’s notice.

“So, what were you three up to?” Alyss asked. “Discussing things?”

She nodded. “Talking about our videos and calming down…” she said, before looking towards the kitchen, and shook her head. “Some things are just better left unsaid… or unseen…”

“Yeah, but it would be best if we do tell soon. So we don’t have anything to hide.” Chen said, as Vixen fell over.

“Whoa-” she started, starting to catch herself. Michiko was quick to help her.

“Maybe don’t drink too much next time.” she said, before looking at Chen. “And as for that… yeah… Just don’t be mad at some people for wanting to hide their pasts… I know I do.”

“We understand. Same with Kosuke’s, whatever it is.” I said. Which is when Kosuke walked in.

“I was…….the Ultimate Killer’s Accomplice.” He said, sitting next to Michiko.

“Which was technically how we met the first time.” Michiko said, “Before I decided to run from that past.”

“And that past was…?” Alyss asked, leaning towards her.

“...I was the Ultimate Yakuza Princess.” she said.

Chen screamed, jumping and making the chair fall back.

“Chen!” I said, helping him up as Jason picked up his chair.

“....and that’s why I didn’t want to reveal it…” Michiko said, as Elle looked in.

“What was that? I heard-” she started, before looking at all of us. “...oh.”

Chen sat back down, his eyes not leaving Michiko. “Y-y-y-yakuza……..” he whispered, scared.

“Chen, calm down.” Vixen said, placing a drunk hand on his shoulder.

“Chen, she’s not like that anymore…” Elle said, walking over. “She’s separated from that life now…”

“...not entirely…” Michiko said, “But I told myself to not do anything when it comes to some people… And that includes him.”

“Well, since we started….” Vixen said. “I was falsely accused of killing my family, even though the authorities still believe it was me.”

“...That… sucks.” Michiko said, blinking.

“Veronica hid my past, as a murderer of people….” Jason hissed out.

“...eh, that’s… not as bad as I thought…” Michiko said, “Try doling out the punishment, ‘dearie,’ and you’ll see how messed up I could be.”

I looked away. “I was tortured.” I said, getting a gasp from Michiko, Alyss and Dragomir.

“Eric…” started Alyss.

“What is it with people and hurting the two of you?” Michiko whispered.

“It was sometime after i was born. It….” i grabbed my sides, where the scars were most prominent. “Was agonizing. But i couldn’t remember anything about it until i saw the video. My life was a lie.” I said, squeezing harder. “I can still…..hear my…...own…..screams.”

“Eric…” Elle said, placing her hand on my shoulder. “It’s over now… and nothing will ever take you back there. I promise you that.”

“I know. But forcing myself to see what I went through……” I looked away.

“I completely understand…” she said. “Similar situation, different circumstances.”

“...and that was…?” Alyss started. “Sorry, curiosity killed the cat.”

“Rape,” Jason said, before Elle had a chance to reply.

Kosuke looked pained. Michiko and Alyss gasped. And Dragomir looked down.

“...yeah...that.” Elle said, sighing. “So I’m not the ‘sweet innocent princess,’ you thought I was. I do have a side I hide. And it’s not...pretty.”

Dragomir looked up. “I….i….”

“Hm?” Alyss asked, looking at him.

He pulled out a small object from his jacket. He then attempted to put it in his neck, but dropping it. It shattered on the tile floor.

“Dragomir?!” asked Alyss, standing.

“My father was a substance abuser. He always had these moments of rage and anger, and took it out on me.” he said, “it led to me attempting suicide multiple times.”

“...” Alyss was silent, and hugged him tightly. “You… you don’t need to do that…” she whispered, her voice pained.

“They won't stop.” he said, reaching for something else in his jacket but Alyss grabbed his shaking hand.

“Don’t you do this to me.” She said, looking at him. “I have no idea where I’d be without you. Probably out on the streets trying to… do anything... to survive.”

“You were homeless?” I asked.

“Try raised up as a prostitute.” She said, looking at me. “From a very young age. The women that took me in were nice, but… they weren’t my family. As far as I knew, never had one until Dragomir. So I cleaned up and wanted to impress.”

“...Knew it…” Elle whispered, smiling a little. “I knew you cared about him.”

“We both cleaned up.” Dragomir said, before kissing her.

“...damn, didn’t expect that.” Vixen said.

“Well, they have been together for awhile.” Michiko said.

“It was bound to happen.” Elle said, smiling a bit.

“...and by your reaction to mine…” Michiko said, looking at Chen, “I’m going to assume you were that thief?”

He nodded. “When you caught me, I was trying to go home…..to save my friends…..my family.”

She looked down. “I’m sorry… I was just following orders. I didn’t have my own Yakuza.” she said, wrapping her arms around her. “It wasn’t until my older brother was killed by some rivals that I decided to cut ties with them.”

He nodded. “I left them behind out of fear. I am scum the gods would smite.” he said, before letting out a faint “nyah.”

“Hey now,” Michiko said, “I think you were pretty brave to even face us. I was the dishonored one in the situation.”

Elle stepped away from me. “I should finish cooking…” she said softly.

Jason stood. “Mind if I help out?” he asked. She shook her head, starting to walk back into the kitchen, before stopping as the door opened.

Soon, Sun, Yuki and Coralia walked in. “Did we miss the big reveal?” Sun said. Of course he would say that.

“Well… if you mean if some of us have said what was on our tapes… yes? If you mean your own reveal...no.” Alyss said.

“So let it out.” Vixen said, “Before we die from anticipation.”

Coralia walked over, sitting next to Chen. “I lost my sister to the sea. My perfect, beautiful sister. I looked away while helping an injured whale when the tide went out, pulling her with. I tried to go after her, but i was held back. ‘She’s gone.’ everyone said. And it was my fault for being careless.”

“Ouch… that’s pretty painful..” Vixen said.

“Not as painful as others… but I feel your pain.” Michiko said, sending her a kind smile. “Now…” She looked at Yuki, who looked down.

“Um… I have a disease…” Yuki said, quickly.

“A disease? That shouldn't be that bad.” Alyss said. Oh, it was worse.

I looked at everyone, as they were uneasy.

“If it is a disease that is known, I can make a solution to cure it..?” Coralia started.

“...it doesn’t have a cure…” Yuki sighed. “My mom had it… Friedreich's Ataxia…”

“Whoa, wait.” Michiko said, “What?”

Coralia looked at her. “You should have told me!” she said, running over. “I could have helped keep it from progressing.”

“I’ve had it for about 10 years. I’ve even kept it from Shiro.” Yuki said, “As long as I’m able to keep moving… I’m fine. I can play. I can talk. I can...live life as long as I can.”

“Whoa… kept it from your partner?” Vixen asked, “For that long?”

“It's not surprising.” Jason said. “She would have rather kept it secret than have him worry.” his tone was harsh.

“It’s… not that…” Yuki said, “I mean, it’s part of it, but… Remember I said my mom had it?”

“...your mom died.” Michiko concluded.

Sun looked away. His eyes were on Elle, but quickly looked away when Kosuke looked at him.

“Hmm…?” Vixen asked, looking at Sun, then Elle, then back to Sun. “What was with that?”

“My father…….” He started, looking at Elle.

Elle tilted her head, looking at him.

“Your father…?” started Alyss.

‘He was drunk after a good show. He decided to take a walk. But…..when i found him……..” He said, his mask was sad.

“...I don’t understand…” Elle said, confused.

“...Oh my-” started Michiko, “Don’t tell me he...?”

Jason’s eyes narrowed. “Elle, leave.” he commanded. She looked at him, confused. “Go back into the kitchen.”

“Why?” she asked.

“Just. Go.” Jason said. “I think we should hear this one without you.”

“I…..pushed him away…….and did what i could to help. The medics….came and that was the last i ….saw of….” He finished, covering the other half of his face.

“Will someone tell me what we’re talking about?!” Elle asked.

“...you’re so dense sometimes.” Jason said. “You. It has to do with you.”

I stood. “Don’t call her dense!” I yelled, before grabbing my side.

“...don’t…” Elle said. “Don’t push yourself, and don’t yell at each other. Again.” She looked at me. “I can’t stand seeing you hurt.” She looked at Jason. “And he’s right… I am a bit dense sometimes… It’s stupid I can’t stand being called. And if it’s about me, I didn’t understand.”

Sun fled from the room. “Oh boy.” Michiko said.

“...Perhaps I should talk to him…” Elle said.

“Are you sure that’s a good idea, princess?” Vixen asked.

“I'll have Seraphina talk to him.” Michiko said, getting up.

“...and we should explain what he was talking about.” Alyss said. “Politely, Jason.”

“....fine…” he sighed.

“Sit down, Elle… this might take a while.” Vixen said. Elle took a seat next to me.

“Now… what he was saying was that his father…” Alyss started, as Michiko left the room.

“Was the cold-hearted bastard that raped you.” Jason said.

“We said politely.” Alyss sighed. “But...yes.”

“I…” Elle started, looking at Jason and Alyss.

“Wait… she was…” started Coralia. “Oh, Elle… you poor fry…”

“She’s clearly a human, not a potato.” Vixen said.

“I meant a term for a baby fish…” Coralia said, “It’s similar to how some people call other people lambs.”

“...you’re crazy.” Yuki said.

“Sun’s father...raped you while he was drunk.” Alyss softly explained to Elle. “He probably didn’t realize what he was doing and doesn’t remember it.”

Elle looked down. I could see her hands shaking. Her eyes were watering up. “E-excuse me…” she whispered, standing. She walked over to the kitchen door, walked into the kitchen, and closed the door behind her.

“...Told her to leave, and she didn’t listen. Now she has to suffer with that knowledge…” Jason said, sighing as he sat back. “...probably is either crying or trying to cut away the memory.”

I stood. “Don’t you get it? We all are suffering with the knowledge we got!” I yelled. “All of us have to relive what we have experienced. Unlike you, Mr. Stab-Stab-Stab!”

“You think I don’t have nightmares? You have no clue what was on my disc!” Jason said, “And it sure as hell wasn’t just the killer I can be!”

“Then what was it?” Alyss asked.

“...My mom committed suicide when I was younger. I watched. I did nothing to help her. And I let that anger fuel everything else I do.” Jason said. “Waved goodbye to me, and ka-boom. Building exploded. Dad was part of a construction company and rigged the place to explode. He said it was an accident, but she knew exactly what she was doing.”

I stopped. So that is why…..

“So yeah, I’m a bit pissed all the time, and I don’t exactly like people. But…” he looked away, “I let her die. And I blame myself for it. Elle’s so much like her...Veronica was, too, once you got past the lawyer side. I just...hate seeing people like them hurt.”

“Don’t worry.” Chen said. “We will find out who did it.”

He nodded, smiling slightly. “Yeah. For now...worry about Elle…” he said. “I know we’re all hurt… but she’s probably terrified. Knowing the rapist, and knowing that someone in his family is here… she’s probably scared that it could happen again.”

“Yeah.” I said, walking into the kitchen. “Elle?”

She was curled up in one of the corners, a knife a few feet in front of her. Nothing was on it, but the fact it was on the floor was...concerning.

“Elle.” i said, walking over. But i stopped, afraid that knife might end up in me.

“...r-relax…” she softly said, “I’m not going to hurt you…” She looked at me, her eyes were reddened, her cheeks wet from tears. “If that knife was going anywhere with me wielding it… it’d be in a certain my body, like with what Madame Red did in Black Butler to those poor victims of ‘Jack the Ripper’…That’s why I pushed it away from me…. I knew the damage I’d do to myself if I had a chance...”

“Elle.” i said, taking the knife and placing it on the counter. “It wasn’t your fault.”

“I know it wasn’t, but…” she started, “How can I not think that somehow...some of it was?”

“You know that is not true.” I said, helping her up. “Now come on, let's finish this together.”

Elle nodded, going over to the counter. For a while, she was silent. “...Eric?” she softly asked.

“Yeah?” I asked.

“...be careful around Shiro…” she replied.

I nodded. “I will.” i walked towards the door. “You be careful too. I am heading to bed.”

She nodded, “I’ll be as careful as I can be.” she said, smiling a little.

I smiled back, walking out. But on the way to the room, someone hit me with something hard. I fell, seeing blood in my eyes as I fell into unconsciousness.

## Class Trial

I jumped up, stretching on…...Is this some kind of joke? A human sized cat bed?! At least is comfortable. “Ah, what a good sleep.” i said, changing and walking towards the dining hall when i noticed something. “is that…...blood?” I asked, before realizing. “Oh no.” i ran through the dining hall doors.

“Chen?” came Coralia’s voice behind me, as she followed. “What are you-...is that…?”

“Someone else.” I gasped. “They got…...someone…..else!”

“....that looks like…a lot blood…” Coralia said softly, covering her mouth.

“We need to find the others.” I said, both of us nodding.

“Right,” she said, “I’ll make sure the girls are up…”

I ran out, first knocking on Dragomir’s door. “Da?” He said, followed by a yawn.

“Someone got attacked.” i said. Dragomir stood tall.

“We need the others!” He said, quickly going to the other rooms.

I ran to the different labs that the men had. I knocked on Jason’s, who opened the lab. “Dude, whoa. What’s the rush? You could have broke some-”

“Someone got jumped.” i said. Jason’s look changed.

“No, we are not letting another death happen!” he said, his eyes flashing red.

“Whoa, wait, what?!” Vixen asked, having been walking by. “Another attack?! Who?”

“Doesn’t matter.” Jason said, “We need to gather everyone and find whoever it is.”

We looked at each other and nodded. “I’ll look around for who is missing. Get everyone else.” I said.

“On it.” Vixen said, “Where do we meet up?”

“Dining hall. I know the trial is soon. So we should be close to that spot.” I said, before i left them to go get the others. “Hm…..if i was a killer, where would i put the next murder……!” i had a light bulb appear above my head. I threw open the sauna door. What i saw was dark. It was one of the guys, only wearing swimwear and bound by rope. But was worse was his skin was covered in burns and blisters like he was stuck in here for the night as well as blood on his head. I walked closer, and screamed. “NYAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!”

A few minutes later, Vixen and Jason ran in. “What the h-hell?!” started Vixen.

“Eric!” Jason yelled, cutting the binding and catching him. “No, Eric!”

“No...way…” Vixen said, “This is so messed up! Who the hell would do something like this?!”

I checked his pulse. ‘He is still alive!” I backed away. “Lets get him to the medical room.”

Jason nodded. “If you think he’s still…” he started.

“Just do it, Rey.” Vixen said, “I’m sure Coralia would help…”

“I'll get her.” i said, running to the dining hall. Everyone else was there. “Coralia!”

She looked up from her conversation with Elle. “You found whoever it was…?” she asked. “...don’t tell me it’s who I think it might be.”

“Just come!” I said. She jumped up, Elle joining her. “Um…..”

“What?” Elle asked, looking at me.

“Whatever it is, tell her on the way.” Coralia said, “This is more important.” She quickly left the dining hall.

We ran to the medical room. “When I woke up, I noticed a pool of dried blood on the ground. Which is why I roused everyone. But…...the victim…….” I said, before Coralia threw the door open. It made a loud slam.

“Whoa!” Jason exclaimed.

“....you let her come?” Vixen whispered, looking at Elle.

“Doesn’t matter!” Coralia yelled. “Burn cream, NOW!”

‘Geez! She is very scary when someone is in care.’ I thought.

“Yeah, yeah…” Vixen said, grabbing the burn cream. “I just thought it’d be a better idea to not let her see him like this…”

“Vixen, I think she knew.” I said. Elle walked over, gasping as she saw his face.

“E-Eric…” she whispered, backing away.

“How do you think she knew?” Vixen asked, “Unless you think the little princess is capable of doing this to her boyfriend?”

“W-what?!” Elle said, shocked.

“No, more like at the time everyone was gathered, only Eric and I were left away from the dining hall. And when i screamed, you and Jason ran to me, after i found him.” I said.

“He’s not wrong, and we were in the hallway, so it was just natural that we’d turn around to help,” Jason said. “But I do have to wonder who did this...and why…”

“Look, it doesn’t matter. He’s alive, isn’t he?” Vixen said, “And we already have a trial to worry about…”

“.....ow…” we jumped, as Eric spoke. “My head….”

“Working on it…” Coralia said, “Just stay calm, Eric. Someone attacked you last night.”

Elle walked over to Eric, taking his hand gingerly. “Do you remember what happened?” she softly asked.

“Yeah….I walked away from the dining hall, planning on resting for the trial. Until something strong hit me, knocking me out cold. After that, I remember feeling something hot, almost burning. Then a scream and someone picking me up. Then I woke up here.” he said, trying to move before Coralia pushed him back down.

“No moving,” she said, “You’ve lost a lot of blood, and have a lot of burns on you. It’s best if you stay lying down and rest.”

That's when Monokuma jumped up. “Puhuhu. Did something happen?” he asked in that sarcastic cheery voice.

“Obviously, you dumb bear…” Vixen muttered. “Which means we’re down a person in the trial…”

“Well, that’s bad. We can’t have that, now can we?” he said.

“You are not forcing this.” Elle said, glaring at Monokuma. “It’s far too dangerous for him to move around!”

“....Fine, but he will do extra credit.” Monokuma said, before disappearing.

“...I swear, if it wasn’t against the rules, I would have taken a rapier to the heart of that bear.” Elle muttered darkly.

“...okay...she’s actually scary sometimes.” Vixen said.

“Just go, ill be fine.” Eric said. “Coralia, hand me the burn cream.”

She nodded, giving him the cream. “Just be careful with it. And follow the instructions.” she said.

He nodded, as we exited the room. The trial announcement played after we left. “Lets go.” I said.

Jason nodded, leading the way. “So, Elle, what was with that little-” he started.

“Don’t. I literally want to stab something right now, I don’t need it to be a person.” Elle said, “Because seriously… I’m worried...and very pissed off.”

“We get that.” Vixen said, before we entered the elevator. Jason was glaring at Shiro.

“What are you doing?” asked Yuki, looking at Jason as she crossed her arms.

“We shall find out during the trial, shall we?” Jason replied.

“I’m guessing you have some suspicion, then?” Michiko asked, as the elevator opened.

We were greeted to a blue, underwater pool design on the walls. “...” i looked at Monokuma.

“Like it?” he asked, “I thought it was time for some redecoration.”

“...You’re sick.” Elle said. “Let’s just get the trial over with.”

We took out places, which has a colored portrait for Eric, but not crossed out.

“So Eric was the one who got attacked…” Seraphina said, “I wonder what happened.”

“We’ll find out.” Elle said. “Now, we start by going over the murder victim and the crime scene...right?”

“Yeah.” I started. “The victim was Veronica. And the scene was the courtyard water tank.”

“Poor Veronica…” Alyss said, “I wonder why it had to be her…”

“Well, she was fighting with Vixen not too long before,” Michiko said.

“No!” i yelled. “We have Eric’s alibi for that.”

“If i remember right, Eric took her back to her room afterwards to calm down. It would make sense that the murder didn’t happen until later.” Dragomir said.

“Oh, right.” Michiko said, “Sorry for accusing you, Vixie.”

“Don’t. Call. Me. That.” Vixen sighed.

“Well, that takes Vixen out…” Elle said. “But does anyone think it could be someone else?”

“Well, don’t we know someone else who has a tendency to harm people?” Seraphina asked. “At least, that I’ve heard…”

“I agree.” I said, as Seraphina smiled. “We all revealed our motive videos to each other, at least most of us. And of the ones who would harm another were…….Jason, Shiro, Michiko, Kosuke, and I, as well as the deceased Veronica.”

“Whoa, wait…” Alyss said, “Veronica?”

“In her video, she had helped Jason pull off murder, as well as hide it.” I said. “But the climax was when it was revealed she killed her best friend.”

“Whoa…..” Seraphina said, “Wouldn’t have expected that…”

“So Jason might have done it t keep her from talking….” Sun said, making Jason give him a look.

“Dude, i put that behind me after that…..accident.” he said.

“Accident?” Michiko asked.

“It was later said by Jason that she handed her friend the wrong cup.” VIxen said.

“I GOT A PERFORMANCE THAT WILL KNOCK YOUR SOCKS OFF!” yelled Sun. “That is irrelevant to this case, as we know that Jason could have easily done it.”

“...I don’t think so.” Elle said. “I don’t think he’d have the heart, since they were so close.”

“I agree.” I said, “they were very close, since they both were always together here.”

“That means it couldn’t have been Jason….” Yuki said, “But, why would Michiko hurt someone?”

“Yakuza, sweetheart.” Michiko said, smirking. “But I have nothing against Veronica.”

“Agreed.” I said. “You let the past be past, just like Kosuke.” But thats when i realized everyone looking at me.

“What about you?” Yuki asked, “Weren’t you one of the firsts to the scene of the crime?”

“Well, yeah but-.” i started.

“So it’s possible it was you…” began Alyss.

“No way, it wasn’t Chen!” Elle said, “He was with me at the time!”

“I agree!” I said. “We were in the media room because we both got curious about everyone else's. That's when we heard her scream.”

“Exactly! So we ran out to see her in the tank and tried to get her out.” Elle said. “We couldn’t because of something being on the lid.”

“Right, the glue.” I said. “The lid was sealed with glue, possibly so Veronica couldn't just get out.”

“And, if I remember correctly, she was also bound with string…” Elle said, pulling out the Monokuma file for confirmation. “Yep. Looks right.”

“That still doesn’t clear you for executing the act earlier!” Shiro yelled. Yuki, Sun, and Seraphina were behind him.

“Dude, no way did he do it!” Jason yelled. Elle, Vixen and Coralia had my back as well. That left Eric, Kosuke, Michiko, Dragomir and Alyss in the outlier.

“Well, we aren’t entirely sure who to believe…..” Kosuke said.

“Yeah…” Michiko said. “If there was some sort of proof…”

“He has an alibi. He was with me the entire time.” Elle said, gripping her podium, “There’s no possible way he’d do it before that because I was with him! And we saw her die!”

The door to the courtroom slammed open. “Wha-” Started Monokuma.

In the doorway was a wheelchair bound Eric. He wheeled over, to the shock of everyone.

“What the?! I told you to stay where you were!” Coralia exclaimed.

“And be forced to do this ‘extra credit?’ Fuck that!” he said. He did look better, but there were still a few burns on his face. And he was wearing his kimono loose. “I will show up, even if i almost died.” he looked at the portrait and broke it in half.

“Just be careful.” Elle said, “After all, we’re still debating who was the real culprit.” She looked over at Shiro, a small glare on her face.

“Well. let me say that i can vouch for Chen. he was with her that night. I was in my lab when i heard them talking. Then was Chen screaming for help.” He said.

“So… they weren’t lying…” Michiko said.

“Of course we weren’t.” Elle replied.

“But I just don’t think Shiro could…” Alyss started.

“Who else here has a package of instrumental string?” I asked.

“Don’t look at me,” Yuki said, “I don’t need to change the strings of a piano that often…”

“Preposterous!” Shiro yelled. “Why do you think i would do this? I have no gain!”

“And yet, as of right now, no alibi.” Eric said.

“That’s true… aren’t you almost always with him, Yuki?” asked Michiko.

“Not that night.. I wasn’t feeling too well, so I went to bed early, until the investigation started…” Yuki said.

“I can verify that,” Seraphina said, “I made sure she went to her room before meeting with Michiko.”

“So that’s why you wanted that medicine…” Michiko said.

“So that leaves you with no alibi, Shiro.” I said.

“Anything to explain yourself?” Elle said, looking at Shiro. Her voice was slightly crueler than normal, like she was actually angry at him.

“Whoa… what’s with her?” Vixen said.

“I guess she’s a bit more protective of people than she lets on…” Seraphina said, smiling slightly.

“Y-you!” Shiro started. his face was flustered. “I was cleaning the trash room. It was quite the mess. I did see someone there, however.”

“And who was that?” Elle asked, crossing her arms.

“Jason.” he said. “He has a bundle of clothes that looked like our dear Eric’s.”

“That is…..untrue.” Eric said, looking away. That's when Shiro jumped at the opportunity.

“Which puts blame on Jason!” Shiro said.

“Impossible!” Vixen said. “I was keeping an eye on him.”

“Which implicates you as well!” Kosuke said. Uh oh. Kosuke, Phantom, Sun, Alyss, Dragomir, Yuki and Shiro were against Jason, Vixen, Michiko, Seraphina, Coralia, Eric, Elle and I. We were split again!

“Looks like we’ll have to argue things out again.” Elle said, “We’ll show you who’s right!”

“Monokuma, looks like a split.” Eric said.

“To the Debate grounds!” he said, as we rose up.

“Jason could have shut her up to keep her from spouting shit.” Sun said.

“Hell no! I loved her!” Jason yelled.

“Then why’d you keep it secret?!” Alyss asked.

“Because all of us were blackmailed!” Michiko yelled.

“No reason why she had to be killed in the process.” Yuki said.

“Actually, there was! But once we reveal the culprit, we’ll get to that.” Elle said.

“And yet, Jason has less of an alibi than Shiro.” Kosuke said.

“He has more of an alibi than your hairline.” Vixen said.

“Still, Shiro is too kind to kill anyone.” Phantom said.

“If it’s blackmail, the culprit would do anything to keep it secret. Even kill someone.” Seraphina replied.

“This is an outrage! A staged act!” Shiro yelled.

“If it is so staged, then explain why she had to die!” I yelled.

“Face it, Shiro, we have evidence against you!” Coralia said. “Don’t we, Chen?”

“Of course!” i said, as a monitor appeared in the center. “Your video!”

“Wha-!” Shiro yelled.

The video played, getting gasps from everyone. Shiro started to sweat extremely hard.

“Shiro?!” asked Yuki, looking over at him in surprise.

“STAGED!” he yelled. I looked at him.

“Then, you can’t stop now. You have more left.” i said.

Shiro started to yell. “You think this is pure! Staged! BLAME IS NOT MINE!” i kept on tune. “How can you explain this while keeping on beat?!”

“You were disgraced!” I yelled. He fell back. “You went to her to save you from a case of plagiarism. But she refused. You lost your fame, and sought revenge.”

“S-Shiro…” Yuki whispered. “Is… this true?”

He stood, using the pedestal as a way to stay up. “Justice…...had to be served…..” he said.

“So you saw her video and got the proper motive….” Kosuke said.

“Then why did you attack Eric?” Elle asked. “...If I’m presuming you were the same attacker…”

“No.” Shiro said. “I have no qualms against Eric. his accident was not my doing. I had only one string anyway….”

“...I can’t believe this…” Yuki said, shaking her head.

“Then who?” Dragomir said.

“I think I know who.” Eric said.

“...Who?” Elle asked, looking at him.

“Look. He didn’t die,” Michiko said. “We should continue on to the voting, after Chen goes over the events of the committed crime once more.”

“Well, let's start back from the beginning. It starts after i told everyone about the motive videos. All of the others, including the culprit. But after seeing the video, they were keen on seeing a certain someone’s, Veronica’s. That's when the plan started. They went back to their room, and grabbed their spare string. After seeing Vixen attack Veronica, it gave them the chance to grab some glue from my lab. That's when they went to the courtyard, removed the lid to the water tank, and coated the edge with glue. After Jason and her separated, they subdued her and tied her feet up, dragging her to the tank. Then they threw her in, and covered the tank. She screamed, causing you to hide. When Elle and I tried to save her, they fled back to your room, and watched as she drowned and was blended. But they left a note there on accident, conveniently placed on scrap music sheets. Isn't that right, Shiro!”

“What an interesting development.” Monokuma said, laughing.

Yuki stepped away from Shiro. “Y-yuki?” He said, trying to take her hand but she slapped his hand, making him fall.

“I can’t believe you!” She exclaimed, “After everything we’ve been through and-” Her eyes were tearing up. “I kept so much from you just to stay friends… and you do this.”

“Yuki!” HE yelled.

“Let’s just vote.” Jason said, his voice cold.

“Agreed.” Seraphina said, as the voting popped up on our podiums. A few minutes later, the slot machine appeared, three Shiro’s on it.

“And well done!” Monokuma said. “Shiro Kirenai is the blackened, which means GAME OVER for Shiro!”

Shiro stood. “Just….do it.”

Yuki looked at him. “...I’m sorry, Shiro…” she said, as Monokuma grabbed him, dragging him off.

Shiro broke free. “Oh hell no!” he yelled, running.

“Ah, ah!” Monokuma said, “No running from the headmaster!”

That is when Yuki grabbed him. “You have always run. FACE THIS LIKE A MAN!” she pushed him into the room.
Shiro is pushed onto a stage, where three chains drag him to a pole, strapping him to it. An image popped up, naming this **Flight of the Valkyrie: Violin Cover.** A Monokuma in his outfit starts to play a song. Soon, the song starts to go off key and even becoming a different song altogether. the crowd boos, throwing random trash at Shiro, causing deep lacerations on his skin and his clothes. When the song ends, a trap door opens below the pole, dropping Shiro through it. The sound of grinding metal came from the trapdoor, as blood shot up, landing on the front row.

Elle turned away, wincing. Yuki looked down. “I almost feel bad for him…” She whispered.

“It...could have been worse, I guess.” Michiko said.

“It was justice.” i said. “He went the same way as she did.”

“C-can we just...go…?” Elle said, her voice tense.

“What’s wrong, Princess? Can’t stand blood?” Vixen asked. Elle shook her head.

“Let’s just head back.” Alyss said. She was holding back tears.

“Yes, lets.” Dragomir said.

Coralia nodded, “I agree,” she said, “Which means Eric, you need to go get rest.”

“Fine.” he said, wheeling onto the elevator. “Come on, everyone.”

I was the last to go on, after looking back where Shiro died.

## Class Trial Aftermath

I walked into the dining hall, throwing a glass against the wall.

“...You know, you shouldn’t really do that…” Elle said, sighing a little. “If you want to get out frustrations… you could always spar with me or something.”

“Elle…..i ended him. I killed someone indirectly.” I said. Michiko and Kosuke walked in, followed by the Goths.

“And I did the same with Ace.” Elle said, “Do I-”

“This doesn’t entirely matter in the end.” Michiko said, “It’s all part of the game. And for all we know, it could be similar to how we were in a simulation.”

“There is a chance.” Kosuke said. Dragomir set Alyss in a chair. “But….the shock is still real.”

“It’s...just surprising that he was capable of doing that…” Alyss said, wiping at her eyes.

“That is we thought about Ace.” Dragomir said. “And see how that turned out.”

“Yes, but it was in fear of me remembering.” Kosuke said.

“...don’t you get it?” Elle said, “Anyone is capable of killing someone else, if they have enough incentive of doing so.” She looked away from us. “It’s hard to say this… but believe me when I say that I wouldn’t be surprised if the next motive is bigger… more than money and blackmail… and we just need to be prepared.”

“Elle?” asked Michiko, but Elle just shook her off.

“She is right. Next time, we can stop this.” I said. Kosuke twitched.

“...I’m going to the dojo in the courtyard…” Elle said, standing. Alyss looked at her. “I’ll be fine.”

“Maybe you shouldn’t go alone…” Michiko said.

“Ill go.” Kosuke said. “Chen, you should rest. You look like hell.” i opened my mouth to retort before feeling the exhaustion.

“It’ll be fine.” Elle said, “Go, get some rest.”

“We’ll make sure he gets to his room.” Alyss said, “Right, Dragomir?”

He nodded, as i slipped into a seat and immediately fell asleep.