The first death will finally happen in the next chapter! Who do you think will be the first to bite the dust?
Legend:
Narration/Description
Italicized - Umeko's thoughts
[CG] Description [CG]
[CG] End [CG]
[[flashback]]
Randomized FTEs: Wakako / Eizo
The dining hall was emptier than it had been in previous days. The allocated time for breakfast came and went, and only a few people bothered to turn up.
Eizo was getting antsy, his little clipboard and attendance list in hand, as he tapped his foot with impatience. Hanako, next to him, was less emotive, as she looked down at the few ticks on her list.
Eizo: [annoyed] We have rules for a reason! Is everyone going to just ignore our agreement to have breakfast together at a certain time every morning?
Shizuko: [annoyed] Alright, alright, I hear you! You don't have to yell so loudly… Ugh...I'm sorry I wanted a couple more minutes of beauty sleep. Jeez, you commoners must really live a miserable life.
Yawning and looking ticked off, Shizuko came shuffling into the room, dressed in only her pyjamas.
Eizo: [annoyed] Who else isn't here?
The door opened again, and this time Nagatomo was back, herding a few more of the latecomers.
Nagatomo: Kaori's gathering the last few stragglers.
Kenji plopped down next to me.
Kenji: [worried] What's up Eizo's ass? He doesn't look like a happy camper.
Umeko: He's not happy people aren't turning up on time.
Kaori arrived, Buddy following loyally at her feet as usual. Trailing behind them was Ichiro and the remainder of the group that hadn't yet showed up.
Wakako: [annoyed] What's the big deal? We weren't that late…
Eizo: [annoyed] Yes. Yes, you were.
Wakako: [annoyed] Does it really matter…?
Eizo: The whole reason we're having breakfast at a certain time is to establish order among the group, and eating together is a good way of building camaraderie and maintaining harmony at a time when everyone is suspicious of each other. I'm only trying to maintain a sense of regularity in our daily lives! And I would appreciate it if certain people were a little more appreciative of me and Hanako's efforts.
Hanako herself was off to the side, almost starting to look a little bored, busy studying her clipboard.
Umeko: It's not that we don't appreciate what you've done for us, Eizo. Everyone in the group can see how much work you've put in trying to help us. You've been the hardest worker here...I'm sure everyone respects you for it.
Eizo: [embarrassed] Hmph.
Yoshihiki: [playful] Blah blah blah, so everyone's happy again, right? Alright, good, case closed. [excited] Now, onto more important matters! What's for breakfast? Azuma, my main man! Why aren't you in the kitchen doing your thing?
Azuma: [shocked] Huh? Oh...I'm not on duty anymore. I thought it ended last night.
Wakako: [shocked] Wait...you're not?
Shizuko: [annoyed] So I can't even enjoy Azuma's gourmet meals when I drag myself down here to eat with you commoners?
Azuma: [embarrassed] I'm...really not all that good of a chef…
Kenji: [annoyed] And would you stop calling us commoners already?
Eizo: [worried] Hmm...it appears I...forgot to mention who was on cooking duty last night, now that Azuma's finished with his shift.
Hanako: [annoyed] Seriously?
Hanako's been getting more frustrated with Eizo as of late…
Eizo: [annoyed] I blame Ichiro, alright? If he hadn't gotten up and announced he was going to leave out of the blue, it wouldn't have slipped my mind!
Ichiro: [snide] Some leader you are, trying to pin this on me.
Hanako: At any rate, the mystery of today's chef is not hard to solve. There is only one of us who is not in this room yet now that I've finished with my attendance.
Eizo: Oh? Who...is...it…
Realization - and horror - dawned on Eizo as he scanned the room quickly.
Eizo: [scared] Oh...Oh please, no-
Fukumi: [happy] Hey guys! Look what I've made!
[CG] Fukumi's Second Feast [CG]
Fukumi stepped out of the kitchen, a big grin on her face, brandishing a tray full of what appeared to be black, square rocks, and a jiggling mass of white goo.
Wakako: Eeeeek! What...the hell is that?!
Shizuko: You can't seriously expect someone cultured like me to eat that slop!
Fukumi: Oh, come on! You guys haven't even tried it yet! I've made toast and pancakes for everyone!
Kenji: T-Toast? That looks nothing like toast!
Taro: I th-th-think I'm g-g-gonna be s-s-sick…
Ichiro: You've went and burnt the bread to the point it doesn't even look like bread anymore. Have you never cooked a single day of your life?
[CG] End [CG]
Hanako: [annoyed] Oh, for crying out loud.
She snatched the plate from Fukumi.
Hanako: Fukumi.
Fukumi: [happy] Yeah?
Hanako: You're banned from the kitchen.
Fukumi: [disappointed] Wha…? Aww…
Hanako: There are potato chips in the pantry...if that'll suffice for everyone else.
Shizuko: [annoyed] Ugh. I'll pass. Call me for lunch when someone with actual decent cooking skills has stepped up to the plate.
People began leaving, and Eizo didn't stop them, looking disapproving.
Hanako: Eizo.
Eizo: Hm?
Hanako: Shall I prepare a proper schedule for kitchen duty, or will you?
Eizo: [disappointed] No...no need for you to trouble yourself. You just get things ready for Fukumi's party...make sure everyone knows what they're doing for the day. I'll set up a schedule for the kitchen.
Looking dejected, Eizo slinked away. Hanako wrinkled her nose, but even she looked a little sorry for him.
Fukumi: [sad] Can I...really not step into the kitchen anymore?
Hanako: *sigh* Fine. You're not totally banned. You can go in if you want to. But you are banned from cooking.
Fukumi: [thoughtful] Well...I guess that's not all bad…[excited] At least I have my party in a couple days to celebrate! I'm so excited!
She turned to me unexpectedly.
Fukumi: [excited] Aren't you excited too, Umeko?
Umeko: Oh...yeah. Super excited…
Fukumi giggled and skipped away.
Well...I guess breakfast was a waste. Our group is starting to splinter...that's not good.
It looks like I have some free time today. What should I do?
[[FREE TIME]]
[Talk to: Wakako]
Wakako: [excited] Oooh, did you have some juicy gossip for me? Is it about Yoshihiki? Tell me it is. Please! I want to humiliate that boy! [disappointed] No? Oh well...I guess we could still talk if that's what you really wanted.
I decided to spend some time with Wakako. Looks like Wakako and I grew a little closer today.
Wakako: Okay, Umeko, I've been thinking of asking you this…
Umeko: Ask me what?
This is, like, one of our only conversations. What could she have on her mind for me?
Wakako: What would you say...to an alliance?
Umeko: A...what?
Wakako: [excited] An alliance!
Umeko: All...iance?
Wakako: [annoyed] Yes! Jeez, are you ears stuffed with cotton or something? Yes, an alliance! Open your ears, girl! What, have you never heard of the term?
Umeko: I'm...not sure I understand. What do you mean by 'alliance'?
Wakako: [disappointed] That's right, you're not a reality TV fan. *sigh* Well, you're not the first clueless person I've played with before. I've been on shows with plenty of recruits who know almost nothing about the show they've been put on, so let me give you a rundown real quick.
She's talking about this being a reality show again...does she seriously still think that?
Wakako: An alliance means me and you are going to work together, in secret. It's like a 'I-watch-your-back, you-watch-mine' kinda thing. There are tons of alliances on reality shows, like Survivor, Big Brother - you name it. It's kinda the name of the game where people make and break alliances. It's super common.
Umeko: Okay...I get the gist of it. But...why are you asking for an alliance with me? We're...not on a show or anything.
Wakako: [shocked] Well, obviously it's because of the Killing Game!
Umeko: H-Huh?
Wakako: [worried] Omigosh, girl, you need to wake up and smell the coffee. Do you really think there aren't alliances right now? Just think about it: the Killing Game itself is basically a reality show. People get eliminated one by one, and everyone's trying to win by staying alive. Alliances on reality television sort of works in that if you and I are in an alliance, we don't target each other, we work together and take out our enemies - that sort of thing.
Umeko: Wait...so you're saying there are alliances in the group?
Wakako: Well, of course there has to be! Don't be naive, Umeko. Do you really think some of the people here didn't think to make deals with other classmates in exchange for their own safety? Look around you! Just imagine...two people agreeing in secret that they will not try to kill the other, only other competitors. It's a very likely possibility. And that's only between two people. There may even be larger alliances existing within the group, that we don't even know of! And-
Umeko: Whoa, whoa, whoa, slow down! I don't believe that for a second.
I can't believe that. I don't want to believe that. There's no way people would be going around making secret deals within this group to try and stay alive. This is different from forming an alliance on a show to win a monetary prize - this is our lives at stake! We can't just be selfishly looking out for ourselves! Like Eizo said, it's in our best interest as a whole to work together to escape Monokuma's clutches. Does Wakako really view this Killing Game as nothing more than a reality show competition?
All Wakako's doing is sowing paranoia and planting seeds of discord, and the group's been fragmented enough as it is.
Wakako: So you don't want to get in an alliance then? Is that what you're saying?
Umeko: Are...you going to kill me if I say no?
Wakako: [laughing] Oh, Umeko. Your face is priceless! Don't worry, I'm just pulling your leg!
She waved my concerns off airily and sauntered off before I could rebut her.
That...didn't exactly ease my concerns about her. Wakako might be a bit of an airhead but she's played in some seriously cutthroat reality shows before...she can be manipulative if she wants to be, I'm sure. I just hope never to get on her bad side.
[Wakako's Report Card has been updated based on your experience with her.]
Feeling more wary of Wakako than I was before, and only hoping to be able to comprehend the thoughts that ran through her head, I returned to my room.
Seeing it was lunchtime, I made my way out and down the stairs. To my surprise, I found Samira kneeling by the stairwell, and it looked like she was...doodling...on the wall.
Umeko: Samira? What are you...doing?
Samira: Hm? I'm...decorating.
Samira wasn't just doodling. She had a couple spray paint cans with her and was busy...making what looked to be an incomplete mural on the wall.
Umeko: Wow...I can't tell what that is yet but it looks impressive.
Samira: Hm. Thanks.
She turns around and casually shakes one of the paint cans.
Samira: [happy] I found these in the attic. Cool, right? It feels good to be spray painting again.
Umeko: That's right...as the SHSL Street Artist, this is all your forte, right?
Samira: [happy] Yeah. I'm almost relieved I found these in this dusty old place. Most of the others are losing their minds with nothing to do. Like Kenji, for example. The poor guy seems like he's about to fade away, not being on his board for this long. There are others like Kaori, who - with Buddy - has everything she needs to keep herself entertained. I don't know if Monokuma or the inn's previous owners left these spray paint cans here but to whoever it is, I'm thankful.
Umeko: What artwork are you making? It's a mural, right?
Samira: Yeah. I'm just letting my creativity lead me along and I'll see where it takes me in the end. Making artwork out of the ordinary like this helps me relax, you know? It was what kept me sane after my eman...well, after I left home. You think the others will like-
Eizo: [shocked] Wha...what are you doing?
Eizo hurries over, looking horrified.
Eizo: [angry] You...you've defaced the wall! You vandal! I expected better of you, Samira!
Samira: [annoyed] 'Defaced the wall'? I'm a street artist, it's what I do. I'm making a mural!
Eizo: [angry] What even is this? I can't tell.
Samira: The finished product will be a masterpiece, trust me.
Eizo: [angry] This simply will not do. You're vandalizing the place!
Umeko: Eizo, hey...I think you're overreacting a little-
Samira: [annoyed] Excuse you…! I was just trying to lift everyone's spirits! I figure my artwork would be a ton more interesting than walking by the same bland walls all the time. What's wrong with spicing up this ugly, boring den?
The two's argument was beginning to draw attention, as people heading down for lunch began to crowd around the pair. Hanako pushed her way through the crowd to get to Eizo, and I backed up to where Kenji stood, looking curious.
Kenji: Hey. What's up?
Umeko: Samira was drawing and...well, Eizo's not happy about it.
Kenji: [disappointed] You know, I said Eizo was a good leader when I first met him...and I still think that...but I think the stress is cracking him. A little graffitti shouldn't be that big of a deal.
Hanako seemed to be echoing Kenji's thoughts as she stepped in to defuse the tension.
Samira: [annoyed] Drawing is my avenue to escape the stress of the real world. I'm lucky enough to have even found these spray paint cans in the first place!
Hanako: Alright, that's enough. Both of you - cut it out.
Samira: [angry] How about you take the stick out of your ass and take a chill pill for once? Have you never had fun a day in your life? What kind of sad childhood did you grow up with?
Eizo's face was getting redder. Of all the people to snap at him in the end, I'd expected Ichiro with his bitterness and refusal to be part of the group, or Shizuko and her pampered lifestyle, or even Wakako and one of her bratty tantrums. Not Samira, who for the most part, seemed to be one of the more mature and sensible members of the group, albeit rash and brazen.
Eizo: [annoyed] Fine. Whatever. Keep on drawing, and see if I care.
Samira: [angry] I'll do just that.
Eizo turned around to see the rest of us watching, a group of wide-eyed spectators.
Eizo: [annoyed] Show's over!
He stormed off. Hanako pinched the bridge of her nose, bad-tempered.
Hanako: You just had to yell at him.
Samira: [annoyed] I'm not going to take people insulting my talent lying down, I'm gonna fight back!
Hanako: Yeah, yeah, whatever you tell yourself to sleep better at night. Anyway…
Given that we were all gathered there anyway, Hanako took the opportunity to hold up a sheet of paper in her hands.
Hanako: This here's the schedule I made. We're going to help prepare for Fukumi's upcoming party.
Ichiro: [shocked] You mean...you're serious? [annoyed] We're really celebrating a birthday party in the middle of our situation?
Fukumi: [excited] Yay! It'll be so much fun!
Ichiro: [annoyed] ...This has got to be a joke.
Hanako: There's no use being depressed anyway. A party would cheer everyone up while we wait for rescue, and keep us occupied. I'll be sticking this schedule up on the wall by the night shift schedule. I think it's only fair that everyone pitch in.
Wakako: [disappointed] Aww...more work?
Shizuko: [annoyed] It's not like you were going to do much else with your time, were you? What, too busy filing your nails?
Wakako: [annoyed] Ugh! I did not expect that retort from someone like you!
Mordecai: [angry] Silence your petty cries for attention! It puts a strain on my ears…
Kenji: [playful] Yeah, we really don't need the two divas of the group going at each other next…
As Wakako growled and opened her mouth to retort, I felt my heart sink. Living in this confined space was not doing any of us good...try as we might, we were falling apart, flying at each other's throats too easily.
And yet...no one had died yet. We clearly weren't all getting along, but no one had taken Monokuma's bait so far...I hoped it stayed that way.
Party Preparations
Transporting Boxes from Attic to Lounge - Umeko, Hanako, Wakako
Cleaning Up Lounge - Nagatomo, Shizuko, Ichiro
Baking Cake - Taro, Miyumi, Azuma
Cleaning Up Dining Hall - Samira, Mordecai, Eizo
Transporting Jukebox and Selecting Music - Kenji, Kaori, Yoshihiki
Consulting Hanako's list, I saw that I was to help Hanako and Wakako move boxes out of the attic.
Umeko: Why am I moving boxes from the attic to the lounge?
Hanako met my eyes. There was a strange persistent look in her eyes, and I frowned, puzzled.
Hanako: Just help me with it, you two. It's not that hard of manual labor.
Kenji: [confused] Hey, why aren't you handling the music selection? Aren't you the SHSL Band Leader?
Hanako: I am. And because I've been in charge of groups before, I know I'll only be accused of favoritism and unfairness if I give myself the easiest task. So I randomized our duties, to keep things fair for everyone. [annoyed] But mind you, I'm not happy that I'm handing the choice of music up to you and Yoshihiki. Kaori seems way too lazy to stop either of you from putting a dirty song on, so you better watch yourself, because I will check the music before you can play it.
Yoshihiki: [playful] Aw, you're no fun.
Kenji: What's wrong with a dirty song? We're all teenagers here.
Hanako: Perhaps, but some of us are more mature than others.
Yoshihiki: [playful] Like me! I'm super mature.
Fukumi: [disappointed] Aw, I wasn't assigned any duty?
Kenji: [shocked] You...wanted to be assigned a job to do? But...this whole party's for you! We can't possibly make you do work for your own birthday party!
Fukumi: [uncomfortable] And I can't possibly let you all do the work for me on my own birthday! That'd just be rude of me! Let me help out! Please? Pwetty please?
Hanako: ...You just want to get in the kitchen and have a hand in baking the cake, don't you?
Fukumi: [shocked] N-No! Not at all, ma'am! Certainly not! Hehehe…
Hanako wasn't buying it.
Fukumi: [shocked] I-I-It's true! I'll...I'll take any job you assign me, as a matter of fact.
Hanako: Well, I'd have to randomize it again, since the jobs have been split evenly into groups of three...
Shizuko: [annoyed] Heck, she can take my duty. I don't want to have to get myself dirty and grimy, cleaning up that disgusting Lounge.
Fukumi: [excited] Yay! It's decided then!
Hanako: But-
Shizuko: [happy] Knock yourself out, Fukumi. Happy birthday!
Smirking to herself at getting out of doing work, Shizuko disappeared. Hanako rolled her eyes.
Hanako: Fine. You can help Nagatomo and Ichiro in the Lounge, Fukumi.
Nagatomo: It would be an honor to work alongside the birthday girl, Miss Futurani.
Fukumi: [embarrassed] Aw, you're too kind… [annoyed] But you better stop stealing my stuff when we're doing our jobs! I'm tired of you always pulling a fast one on me!
Nagatomo: [happy] Oh, I wouldn't dare dream of it...not on the birthday girl's special day.
Ichiro: [annoyed] Pft. Whatever…
Hanako: It's decided then. Umeko, Wakako - meet me in the attic after lunch.
I'm still not quite sure why we have to leave boxes in the lounge for the party...but Fukumi looksreally excited for her birthday...and it's the least we could do, given how fractured our group is. I'm sure Eizo and Hanako have a good reason. Besides...given that I remember almost nothing about myself, I don't know if I'm a girl that's terribly into accessorizing. But maybe I'll find a nice pair of earrings or a cute necklace among the trinkets in the attic...that is, if Nagatomo doesn't snatch them right off me without me even realizing.
[Move to: Dining Hall]
Kenji: [disappointed] I wonder what's for lunch today...I hope it's not the disaster from this morning.
Umeko: Azuma, do you know who's taken over your duty?
Azuma: I thought Samira would take over temporarily while Eizo worked on finalizing a new schedule, but after her argument with him, I think she's refusing to do it. So, beats me.
Lunch was a relatively subdued affair. Eizo had put Mordecai up to the job, of all people, and Mordecai made us all a strange, tomato-based soup, which he claimed was a foreign delicacy extremely popular where he came from.
When lunch was over, I bid Kenji and Azuma goodbye and headed up to the attic, where Hanako was waiting.
Hanako: Is Wakako with you?
Wakako: [shocked] I'm here...wait up!
Wakako came running up the stairs, panting.
Wakako: [worried] Jeez...so impatient.
The three of us headed inside, and Hanako pointed out the boxes she wanted us to move.
Wakako: [disappointed] Can't believe they're making three hot girls do all this hard work. Especially me!
Hanako: Oh, quit your whining.
Did...she just blush a little?
Umeko: What's in these boxes anyway?
Hanako: Just a bunch of bits and bobs and decorations...Eizo thought they would make the inn feel more festive.
Wakako: [snide] Can you imagine some of these guys being nice enough to go through with this whole song-and-dance routine for Fukumi? Like, a guy like Yoshihiki would probably try to give her a rotten egg as a gift, given his reputation.
Knowing Fukumi, she might actually still find amusement in that. And speaking of Yoshihiki...
Umeko: Still not a fan of him?
Wakako: [angry] Never have been, never will be.
Umeko: Why does he like teasing you so much anyway?
Wakako: I don't know, because he's just an annoying little troll that thinks picking on hot girls is cool.
Umeko: I think he's just teasing you because he likes you.
Wakako: [laughing] Hah! That's rich! Yoshihiki is delusional if he thinks he's got a chance in hell getting with me. I'm well aware how popular I am with guys but that doesn't mean I just go around getting down and dirty with just anyone.
Hanako mumbled something incoherent under her breath.
Wakako: What was that?
Hanako: Oh, nothing. Come on, let's get these boxes down, ladies.
Once we finished up, the three of us dumped the boxes by the fireplace in the lounge and left them there. Hanako seemed to have much less trouble than us transporting the boxes. The boxes I'd had to carry were pretty heavy, and full of useless junk like toy cars, yoyos and fidget spinners.
Wakako: [distressed] Damn, girl! You've barely broken a sweat! Look at you!
Hanako: My boxes were just lighter.
Wakako: [shocked] Lighter? They're practically empty! Why'd you carry down two empty boxes?
Hanako: [angry] Shh!
Wakako: [shocked] Huh?
Hanako: Just...they're for...trash, alright? Anyway...you two go hang out with the others. I'll see you at dinner.
And just like that, Hanako left hurriedly.
Wakako: [confused] What was that about?
I had no idea.
It looks like I have some free time today. What should I do?
[[FREE TIME]]
[Talk to: Eizo]
Eizo: [worried] Umeko? What is it? What's wrong? Huh? You just...wanted to talk to me? [embarrassed] Um...sure, I don't mind. We could patrol together for a bit...make sure everything's under control around here.
I decided to spend some time patrolling with Eizo. Looks like Eizo and I grew a little closer today.
Eizo: Say, Umeko...Allow me to pick your brain for a bit.
Umeko: Uh...sure. Go for it.
Eizo: What kind of qualities do you think the ideal leader should embody, to be the best role model he can be?
Ah jeez...I can't say I wasn't expecting a question along these lines.
Umeko: Heh, uh...why...do you ask? You seem like a pretty good leader to me already, Eizo.
Eizo: [embarrassed] I...Thanks. But...I know I'm not perfect yet, certainly undeserving to be called an SHSL…
Umeko: What? No, don't say that. I think you've been a fine leader so far.
Eizo: My siblings have all been far greater in leadership positions. I can only hope to be half as good as them.
Umeko: Well…
Eizo: [excited] And if I am to surpass them, I must get a headstart now!
Umeko: Huh?
Eizo: [distressed] I cannot be outdone by my brothers! I cannot be the black sheep of the family! I need to know why I am not the perfect leader!
Umeko: Uh…
Eizo: [thoughtful] There must be something...some quality that continues to elude me...and I am determined to find out what it is! I will not rest until I do! So tell me, Umeko. What do you visualize in the ideal leader? After all, I am interested to hear what qualities you admire in someone with power.
Leadership and control are clearly very important traits to Eizo...he is the SHSL Commander, all things considered. He's been a leader in many areas before to have gotten this title but even he must suffer from insecurities, especially considering what I know of his family background. There's a lot more to him under the surface than meets the eye...I don't know what kind of answer he's expecting of me.
Eizo: Please, do not be afraid of hurting my feelings! I must know the truth, the honest truth and nothing but the truth!
Umeko: Well…I suppose…you need to be more…
1. Firm
2. Relatable
3. Decisive
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Answer: 2. Relatable
Eizo: [confused] Re...latable? What do you mean?
Umeko: I just mean...a lot of the great leaders in history usually rise to power because of the people, right? And even in business, employees want to work for employers and managers that they like and enjoy working for, those who make them feel valued. If the people are a leader's most valuable resource...most people find it easier to listen to a leader they can understand and empathize with. Perhaps being more relatable to the group would endear them to your instructions.
Eizo: [thoughtful] Hmm...you mean to say I am not...relatable? That I must find a way to...connect with the troublesome members of the group?
Umeko: Ehehe...um...no offense, but you can be a little uptight at times. I don't blame you though! A bunch of people in the group make it really hard to keep control over...
Eizo: No, do not blame them! It is my duty as the leader to know how to lead certain individuals. I must choose the most appropriate style of leadership for every situation. It is as the great Warren Bennis said...the most effective leaders know when to change the way they lead, to adapt to different situations. You have given me a lot to think about, Umeko. But perhaps, thanks to your wisdom, I will not let down my family name just yet.
Umeko: Um...cool.
Eizo: [excited] I will use your tips to become a better leader, and prove why I am worthy of my title as the SHSL Commander! There is always room for improvement, after all.
Eizo may be rigid in his behavior but he's definitely trying his best to change, even if it's to fulfil some misguided part of him that insists on being the best 'leader' or 'commander' that he can be because it's the only path in life he's been set upon since birth. Still...I admire his drive.
[Eizo's Report Card has been updated based on your experience with him.]
I decided to return to my room for the time being, leaving Eizo to mumble to himself as he pondered how best to approach leading the team.
When dinner came, again, a few people decided not to come at all - namely Ichiro and Shizuko; the former citing a desire not to interact with others, and the latter naming her disdain for us 'commoners' as her main reason for staying away. Eizo didn't bother reprimanding them for it this time, and not a lot was discussed that night. Even Samira stayed away, presumably still upset by Eizo's rant, and I heard from Azuma that she was busy working on her mural as a sign of protest against Eizo.
Fukumi was still pouting over being banned from cooking, but Kaori did a surprisingly nice thing by cheering her up, letting Buddy lick her feet for a bit.
After I was done with my meal, I got up to leave and Eizo signalled me over.
Umeko: What's up?
Eizo: It's your shift tonight. Did you remember?
Umeko: My shift? Oh!
That's right! I've got night guard duty tonight...with Shizuko.
Eizo: I'm sure Hanako will remind Shizuko as well, but...she has been one of the two most uncooperative people here. It's not too much to ask a favor of you to make sure she does her duty tonight, is it?
Umeko: I'll ensure she doesn't skive off too much.
Time passed by pretty fast, and when I was done showering in my room, there was a knock on my door. Hanako greeted me once I opened it.
Hanako: Ready for your shift tonight?
She handed me a hot, steaming mug of coffee, which I accepted gratefully.
Hanako: The kitchens will be locked later, so this is the only coffee you're getting. I took into account Taro's and Fukumi's complaints from last time, so I hope this'll help you and Shizuko for the night.
Umeko: That's...a surprisingly nice gesture. Thanks, Hanako.
I thought I caught sight of a brief blush on her cheeks.
Hanako: Don't mention it. I'll see you in the morning.
And with that, she was gone.
I guess I should go check on Shizuko and see if she's ready for tonight.
Azuma: Oh, hey, Umeko.
Azuma had arrived, and was just about to head into his room. He nodded at me in greeting.
Umeko: Hey, Azuma.
Azuma: You about to head out for your night shift?
Umeko: Yeah...I'm pretty tired but I'll do my best to stay awake.
Azuma: You'll be fine.
Umeko: I hope these duties are actually helping. It doesn't seem to me like anyone would be plotting against the group to do what Monokuma wants…
Azuma: [thoughtful] I trust Eizo's judgment. If he says the night guards give everyone peace of mind in the night, then it's for the best.
Umeko: I hope so. It pains me to think I'll be up the whole night but...I'm sure it sounds worse for a girl like Shizuko.
Azuma: [playful] Heh. You're paired up with her? Sounds like you're in for a rough night.
We locked eyes for a moment, and I felt a little bad that we hadn't been talking as much because of Kenji.
Umeko: Hey...you haven't remembered anything about...us, yet...have you?
Azuma: [disappointed] No. Sorry. Trust me...I would tell you as soon as I recalled anything.
Umeko: Yeah...that's what I figured. Oh well...it's alright. I should get going and go get Shizuko.
Azuma: Sure thing. See you tomorrow, Umeko.
[Use: Shizuko's Door]
I knocked twice, and waited to be greeted by her usual irritable reply. Shizuko met me at the door. She was wearing a comfy pink bathrobe, with her hair down, looking like she'd just got out of the shower.
Umeko: Hey, Shizuko. Um...is this a bad time?
Shizuko: [annoyed] Ugh, is this about the dumb night shift? So. Annoying. I already told Hanako I would be out in a couple minutes. They didn't need to send you to remind me.
Umeko: I just wanted to make sure you remembered, that's all.
Shizuko: Hey...couldn't you just...I don't know...cover for me?
Umeko: Huh?
Shizuko: [playful] Come on...all you gotta do is tell Eizo I was up all night. No one has to know the truth.
Umeko: I can't lie about it! Besides, I...don't wanna be doing my shift alone.
Shizuko: [annoyed] *sigh* Fine. Whatever. I'll change and I'll be out. Now leave me alone.
Scowling, she slammed the door in my face. Well, that went about as well as I'd expected.
I returned to the third floor, and took a sip of my coffee, watching the seconds tick by on the clock on the wall.
It was going to be a long night.
At first, it seemed a doable feat. The first hour passed rather uneventfully. I alternated between leaning against the door to my room, and pacing up and down the corridor to keep the blood flowing in my legs. I finished my coffee relatively quickly; though I'd briefly considered conserving it to keep me going, I figured guzzling it down cold would just make it taste worse.
The second hour came and went, and it was soon past midnight.
The third hour seemed to stretch on and on forever, and I was starting to nod off. I forced myself to stay awake by continuing patrols, walking by each room and trying to memorize the order of nameplates just to have something to do to keep myself awake.
By the fourth hour, I was starting to see what Taro had meant. The shadows in the darkened hallway only seemed to grow thicker and menacingly so. I briefly considered checking in with Shizuko just to have another person to talk to to reassure myself of my paranoia.
The seconds on the clock continued to tick on by at an agonizingly slow pace, and eventually I slumped on the ground, feeling that this was more torturous than having all my fingernails and toenails wrenched off my body at the same time. For a slight moment, I wondered if it would really be so bad to just ignore Eizo's dumb rules and turn in for the night anyway. It's what Shizuko wanted to do, and now more tired and frustrated than I'd been since this all started, I was starting to agree with her.
No, I can't. Eizo's put in a lot of effort to keep us going as a group and maintain order. I can't disregard that. If the other night guards could keep going, so can I.
This is fine! Easy, even. What could go wrong?
Groaning, blinking away my tiredness with determination, I stumbled to my feet and decided to brave the dark corridors and go for a walk.
Up and down I continued to pace...at this rate, I didn't know what would kill me first, the boredom or the lack of sleep.
I'm going to need a nice long nap tomorrow...I never thought I'd see the day I'd actually look forward to returning to my accursed room for once.
Eizo: [angry] Umeko!
Startled, I let out a small scream and jumped about a foot in the air. Heart pounding, I slammed my back against the wall, clutching my chest with a grimace.
Umeko: Eizo! What- You- Why did- Don't do that!
Eizo: [annoyed] I thought I told you to make sure Shizuko was on duty!
Umeko: I...wait, what? Hold on, let me catch my breath for a second…
I exhaled slowly, groaning as I waited for my heart rate to return to normal. Eizo coming out of nowhere had damn near given me a heart attack.
Umeko: Eizo...you can't just jump out of the shadows unannounced like that…!
Eizo: [annoyed] First Taro and now you? I could see it coming from him but I thought you were a little bolder than that. What's so scary about this dumb hallway anyway? Don't tell me you think this place is haunted, or something along those lines.
Umeko: No, but be realistic! You caught me completely unaware back there...who wouldn't have had the shock of their lives?
Eizo: [embarrassed] Hmph. Alright, fine, I guess maybe I should have made my presence known first. [annoyed] But you deserve it! You didn't do what I asked you to!
Umeko: What? What do you mean? I'm standing right here, aren't I?
Eizo: [annoyed] I told you to make sure Shizuko was on her duty! I just came from downstairs and she wasn't at her post at all!
Umeko: What? But...I did tell her about it, I swear!
Eizo: [annoyed] You should have checked on her from time to time to make sure. She either went back in or never came out of her room at all, because she was sleeping when I knocked on her door to wake her up!
Umeko: Well...hey, what are you doing up at this hour anyway?
Eizo: I'm doing a spot check. [annoyed] And given that Shizuko decided to ignore her duty, I clearly made the right choice.
Umeko: A...spot check?
Eizo: I decided that conducting random spot checks every now and then to make sure the night guards were still doing their jobs would be a good idea. Tonight has proven me right.
Umeko: Well, I'm sorry I didn't check to make sure Shizuko was up. I just...didn't think to leave my floor. And I...assumed she'd kept her word.
Eizo: At any rate, she refused to stay awake for the job, which means…[annoyed] I guess I'll take over for her tonight.
Umeko: Aw, Eizo...you shouldn't have to do that for her sake, especially since it was her job in the first place. She was wrong to have tried to skip her duty to begin with.
Eizo: It's fine. A leader knows when to step in and perform a task himself. And it's not like I didn't see this coming...why did you think I decided to have my first random spot check tonight, with her on duty? I figured something like this would happen, knowing Shizuko's attitude. So I'll take over her shift for the night. But she'll have to do mine in a few nights, and I'll make sure she does it.
Umeko: How? Your partner is Miyumi, isn't it? You really think Miyumi would be any more responsible in making sure a girl like Shizuko does her job?
Eizo: We'll cross that bridge when we get to it. I'm going to head back down now. Can you handle yourself up here? [playful] Not uh...not gonna get scared again, are you?
Umeko: Oh, har har.
Seemingly a little more calm now, Eizo nodded at me and headed back downstairs. I felt a little guilty that I hadn't bothered to check in on Shizuko after reminding her about her duty earlier in the evening, but at the same time, I was a little exasperated by Eizo.
Random spot checks? Really?
I don't know how I did it but eventually, I made it through the whole night, somehow keeping my eyes open. I think the excitement of suddenly being caught off guard by Eizo woke me up a little, and the next thing I knew, I was hearing Monokuma's familiar morning announcement.
Seeing his cheerful face on the monitor worried me. It had been a while since we'd last seen him, when he threatened to unleash a motive on the inn to tempt us into murder. I could only fear whatever it was that he was plotting.
Doors began to open, as different people got up and headed down to breakfast. Azuma smiled at me in greeting as he left his room, looking refreshed.
Azuma: [happy] Well, don't you look exhausted.
Umeko: You're telling me. Shizuko might look alright though.
Azuma: [shocked] Really? I would think she'd look even worse than you do, pampered as she is.
Umeko: That is, if she ever even did her shift.
Azuma: [confused] What do you mean?
Umeko: She ignored her duty and just went to bed.
Azuma: [worried] Seriously? She just left you by yourself?
Umeko: I wouldn't even have been any the wiser if Eizo didn't catch her not at her post, and found out she'd never left her room.
Azuma: Eizo? What was he doing awake?
Umeko: He claims he was doing a… 'random' spot check last night, and found Shizuko missing. So he grilled her, but she still refused to do it, and he had to take over.
Azuma: [disappointed] I guess I can't blame Shizuko...staying up the whole night just on the off-chance that someone will be up to anything suspicious does sound like a pain. But… 'random' spot checks? Really? It almost sounds like we're in the army or something.
Umeko: Eizo has worked in the military before, hasn't he? I suppose he picked up a few things.
Azuma: Well, props to you for doing your job and staying up. You were more resilient than Shizuko was. You deserve a good hearty breakfast for your troubles.
Umeko: Ugh, thanks, but right now, all I really want is to crash on my bed and nap the day away.
Azuma: Eizo might have announcements in the morning though...and Hanako needs to take your attendance. Come on, the faster you get breakfast out of the way, the sooner you and your bed can be reunited.
Sleepily, I followed Azuma's lead down the stairs. Gradually, everyone else began to fill the dining hall - not all on time, of course, but at least everyone came. Even Ichiro and Shizuko showed up this time. I was surprised. I supposed they didn't want to give Eizo more of a reason to snap at them.
I cast Shizuko a look when she entered, and she pouted.
Shizuko: [uncomfortable] What?
Umeko: You abandoned me. You left your post!
Shizuko: [annoyed] Girl, it's not my problem I found myself too tired to stay up the whole night! I tried, okay? I stayed awake for a couple hours and then decided it just wasn't worth it.
Umeko: Still, I...I can't believe you just decided to ignore your duty like that. You totally left me hanging!
Shizuko: [annoyed] You did fine on your own, didn't you? I'm an actress, okay? I live a very stressful life, and I need all the sleep I can get to keep myself youthful. I'm a celebrity. I should hold myself to higher standards than you.
Umeko: I...can't even think of a response to that.
Wakako: [bored] You know, she's got a point. Us celebrities do need to work on maintaining our appearances. If we let our bodies waste away, well, that's our most valuable asset walking out the door.
Shizuko: [snide] 'Us celebrities'? Honey, you and I are on two different ends of the spectrum. We are not the same.
Wakako: [shocked] Huh?
Shizuko: [snide] You make a living off of posing and flaunting your body for men on cheesy, scripted reality shows. All you rely on is your looks and sex appeal to get far. Me? As an actress, I actually have talent I can depend on. You're...a second-grade celebrity at most. You can't compare yourself to me.
Wakako: [annoyed] What? Oh no you didn't - you did not just go there. Do you wanna go? Because I'm ready to go.
Shizuko: [snide] You don't scare me. You're just small fry. You're not a real celebrity; I've never even heard of you. You're nothing but a wannabe.
Wakako: [angry] Oooh, that is it! That's the last straw, lady! You're about to-
Hanako: [angry] Shut up!
The two women fell silent. People turned and stared at Hanako.
Hanako: [annoyed] The both of you are being nuisances. Cut the crap out. We can't afford infighting, not when we're in a perilous situation like this. Everyone here is sick and tired of listening to the two of you.
Kenji: [worried] Amen to that.
Azuma: [uncomfortable] Ladies, we shouldn't be arguing. We have bigger things to deal with.
Yoshihiki: [playful] I don't know...watching two girls go at each other does sound pretty fun…
Ichiro: [annoyed] Do you ever stop messing around?
Hanako scowled and rubbed her temples, frustrated. I looked around for Eizo, but he wasn't here yet, which surprised me. He was usually up bright and early, the earliest of all of us. I figured he was probably tired from having to unexpectedly take over Shizuko's shift last night, which couldn't have been easy on him.
The doors to the kitchen swung open, and Eizo stepped through, yawning, holding a cup of coffee in his hand.
Hanako: Eizo. Any announcements?
Eizo: Huh? Um...not really.
Hanako: ...Ahem.
Eizo: What? Oh, right. Yeah, uh...don't forget Fukumi's party tomorrow…*yawn*...everyone should finish up their individual preparations today so we're all geared up for tomorrow.
Hanako: ...You should take a break. You look like you need sleep.
Eizo: No...I have to clean the dining hall...with the others. That...was my assigned task. I can't be resting while everyone else is working.
Hanako: Sounds to me like not everyone respects that basic responsibility.
Her eyes flashed dangerously in Shizuko's direction, and the actress stuck her nose up in the air, looking unremorseful. But eventually...
Shizuko: [annoyed] ...Fine. I'll clean up the stupid dining hall, alright? Eizo can rest.
Hanako: Hear that? Now go to your room.
Eizo: No, really...it's fine. I made coffee for the sole purpose of keeping myself awake for this...
Hanako: [annoyed] Your room. Now!
Eizo opened his mouth to argue again but Hanako shot him down with a persistent glare.
Eizo: [disappointed] Fine…
I didn't remember much else from breakfast. I vaguely remember Kenji pestering me that I had to eat, and stuffing one croissant in my mouth before I decided I had to take my leave.
I must have forgot walking up to my room, because when I next came to my senses, I was back in bed, under the covers, snuggly and warm. Stretching, I checked the time and saw that it was ten to five, and I'd slept past lunch entirely.
Dinner'll probably be in about an hour, depending on whoever's taken over the cooking from Mordecai. I feel a little more well-rested now...I should head out and see who to chill with for a bit. That's enough of the bed for me.
[Use: Door]
Just as I was leaving my room, I heard a nearby door close, and turning, I saw Ichiro had stepped out into the hallway too. He noticed me and scowled at first, but then, almost begrudgingly, came over to talk.
Ichiro: [uncomfortable] You...feeling better?
Umeko: Huh?
Ichiro: [annoyed] Don't make me say it again.
Umeko: Oh...yeah, I'm fine.
Ichiro: [annoyed] Psh. 'Night shifts'...what a grand idea that turned out to be. Like anyone's gonna do anything in the middle of the night…
Umeko: I think Eizo's had it worse than I did, even though he didn't have to stay up as long as me. He's just been...dealing with a lot of stress these last few days. Being the 'leader' has really put a lot of pressure on him.
Ichiro: [annoyed] Pfft...well, he did volunteer. No one forced him into it.
It was at that moment that I realized Ichiro's hair was damp and dripping onto his hoodie.
Umeko: Um...did you just get out of the shower?
Ichiro: Not quite.
Umeko: But...your hair is wet.
Ichiro: [annoyed] It was that idiot prankster who did it. He put a fucking bucket-of-water on the doorframe to the Library and I got soaked as soon as I stepped through! I had to come back to my room for a change of clothes.
Umeko: Heh...that does sound like something Yoshihiki would do.
Ichiro: [worried] I nearly dropped Charlie on the floor out of surprise. He's lucky I won't have to get him a new pot…
Umeko: Ch...arlie?
Ichiro: [embarrassed] Uh...nothing.
Umeko: That didn't sound like nothing.
Ichiro: [embarrassed] F-Forget it. It was a slip of the tongue.
Umeko: You don't mean...your cactus?
Ichiro: [shocked] …
Umeko: You...named your cactus Charlie? Charlie the Cactus?
Ichiro: [embarrassed] N-No! I didn't!
Umeko: Aww, that's so cute! I didn't think a guy like you would do something sweet like that…!
Ichiro: [embarrassed] Sh-Shut up! I didn't name...it's not a...just-
Umeko: It's fine, I'm only teasing. I won't tell a soul.
Ichiro: [annoyed] Ngh...you better not!
Umeko: Cross my heart, I'll keep your secret. ...that is really cute though.
Ichiro: [annoyed] Shut up! Stop talking about it! Ugh, I should've known this would happen. This is why I don't talk to you people…
Umeko: Oh come on, there's nothing wrong with giving your...um...giving your plant a name. No one's gonna make fun of you for it.
Ichiro: [annoyed] Really? You're telling me people like Yoshihiki and Wakako are just gonna let something like this slide?
Umeko: ...Good point.
Miyumi: [excited] Hey! Umeko!
From the stairs, Miyumi was running over to where me and Ichiro stood, talking. She looked nervous, but as always, had her dolls with her, bouncing in the air as she ran.
Miyumi: [excited] You're just the girl I was hoping to find! And you too, Ichiro. Where'd you go? I thought you were supposed to be at the library.
Ichiro: [annoyed] I was. Until Yoshihiki pranked me and I had to go get changed.
Umeko: Why were you headed to the library anyway?
Ichiro: [annoyed] *sigh* Taro kept pestering me about something he wanted me to see, and so I agreed to come with him just to shut him up already. He's so annoying…
Miyumi: [as Ms. Shortcake] [annoyed] Hey! You take that back, meanie! Taro's not annoying, he's a nice guy!
Umeko: And where have you been yourself, Miyumi? I honestly haven't seen you around all that much, even at mealtimes.
Miyumi: [shocked] Oh, well...I don't really do well with other people.
Ichiro: [annoyed] Join the club.
Miyumi: You know, you've got Ichiro and his plants and Kaori with the dog…[happy] I've got my dolls! They're all I need!
Umeko: ...Right.
Miyumi: I mostly just stay in the library where it's quiet and peaceful. The only company I ever get most of the time is Taro and occasionally, a couple others. [excited] Taro's been really friendly to me! He's the only one who doesn't shy away and act like I'm a freak for talking with my dolls. He actually shows an interest in them! How awesome is that? And he's always got so many really cool stories to tell!
Umeko: So you've just been spending most of your time in the library with him?
Miyumi: [embarrassed] Um...well, yeah. I don't really have anyone else to talk to besides my dolls and there's not much else I'd rather be doing anyway.
Umeko: Aw, well...I'm glad to hear the two of you are getting along. You're really cute together…
Miyumi: [shocked] W-What? What are you saying? [as Ms. Shortcake] [embarrassed] Heh...Umeko, what do you mean by that?
Ichiro: [annoyed] If this conversation continues going the way I think it's going, I'll throw up and leave.
Umeko: Oh, no, that's not what I meant! I- I only meant- I mean, you haven't really gravitated to anyone else here, and- you know, he's kind of shy and reserved too- all I meant was- it was just a-
Ichiro: Slip of the tongue?
Umeko: Ehehe...um...let's just discuss why you're here, Miyumi.
For the first time since the conversation began, Miyumi looked serious.
Miyumi: [worried] There's...something Taro wanted to show you...both.
Umeko: He wants to show us something? What?
Miyumi: [as Nico] It's nothing major! Just a really good book!
Ichiro: [annoyed] I got drenched and nearly dropped Ch- nearly dropped my cactus...for a book?
Miyumi: [nervous] Just...come along! It's not like either of you two have anything else important on...right?
I might as well see what the fuss is all about.
Shrugging to Ichiro, we followed Miyumi as she led us back upstairs to the library, where Taro was waiting for us, squeezed into the corner in a bean bag chair, a stack of books by his side. Seeing us arrive, he quickly perked up and waved us over.
Taro: [excited] U-U-Umeko, Ichiro! I'm glad you g-g-guys could m-m-make it…!
Ichiro: [annoyed] Mind telling us what is this about? I'm not happy about having to go back and forth like this.
Miyumi: We've just been reading a lot lately and we thought maybe you'd be interested to check out some of the cool books we've found!
Her enthusiasm sounded forced. Something wasn't right here. I glanced at Ichiro, but he was totally oblivious and just looked as irritable as ever to be around people and not plants.
Taro: [excited] S-S-Sit down! I pr-promise you this is a g-g-good read!
Hesitantly, I sat down, and when I beckoned Ichiro to do the same, he let out a theatrical sigh and slumped into the seat beside me.
Taro shoved a couple books in our hands.
Taro: [nervous] Ch-Check 'em out! Tell us what y-y-you th-think!
Miyumi: [nervous] Yeah!
The two of them turned back to books of their own, leaving me more bewildered than ever. Frowning, I picked up the book Taro had given me and it fell open to a bookmarked page. To my surprise, someone had written on the inside.
DON'T ACKNOWLEDGE THIS MESSAGE
CAN'T TALK IN FRONT OF CAMERAS/MONOKUMA
My breath hitched in my throat. Looking out of the corner of my eye, I realized Ichiro was looking at a similar message written in his book. We were seated at an angle that kept the books out of the camera's view, but it was still aimed directly at us, and presumably picking up the words we were saying.
I turned the page, and found more writing.
FUKUMI'S PARTY IS SETUP TO TRICK MONOKUMA
EIZO/HANAKO HAS PLAN TO ESCAPE
On the next page…
RULES STATE NO STUDENT CAN ATTACK MONOKUMA
NO RULES AGAINST ANIMALS
KAORI HAS BEEN TRAINING BUDDY
PLANNING TO TAKE MONOKUMA BY SURPRISE TOMORROW
HAVE BEEN INFORMING THE OTHERS IN SECRET
TO KEEP PLAN HIDDEN FROM CAMERAS/MONOKUMA
I turned the page again but all that was left was a passage on mental illnesses.
Dissociative Identity Disorder
Dissociative identity disorder, otherwise known as multiple personality disorder or split personality, is a medical condition in which two or more distinct personality states reside within the same body. These two personalities typically do not share memories, and can have different traits and even different medical conditions, like allergies...
…
…
…
Kleptomania
Kleptomania, otherwise known as klopemania, is the inability to refrain from the urge to steal items and is usually done for reasons other than personal use or financial gain…
…
…
...
Prosopagnosia
Prosopagnosia, otherwise known as face blindness, is a mental disorder of face perception in which the ability to recognize familiar faces , including one's own face (self-recognition), is impaired, while other aspects of visual processing (e.g., object discrimination) and intellectual functioning (e.g., decision making) remain intact…
…
…
...
That was where the messages ended. There was no more beyond that.
Fukumi's party...a setup? Had it been a setup from the beginning?
I recalled Eizo wanting to speak to Kaori a couple days earlier. How long had this been in the works? Having Buddy attack Monokuma...it was true that there were no rules against a dog attacking the bear...the rules explicitly said it was only to prevent students from attacking. Though I doubted Monokuma would care about the rules if he was getting ripped into pieces by an angry canine.
But I felt myself getting excited.
What if this worked? That could mean...it could mean we could get out of here.
No one here dared to attack Monokuma, for fear of the unknown. We didn't know how he would deal with us if we made a move, and no one was keen to make themselves an example. This in itself was a huge risk. I couldn't believe Kaori, who loved Buddy so much and showed it more than anyone else in this inn, would put him in jeopardy...but she must want to get out too.
Umeko: You're right. This...is a pretty interesting book.
I tried to choose my words carefully, painfully aware the cameras were monitoring my every move.
Umeko: Have you...shown this to the others yet?
Taro: [nervous] N-Not all, but I th-think most of them will h-h-hear the whole st-story from the others.
I met Miyumi's worried gaze, and Ichiro's skeptical expression, and could sense the trepidation amongst the four of us.
If this somehow worked…
I hadn't thought about freedom a lot yet. I'd been mostly preoccupied with keeping the peace and trying to get accustomed to the strangeness of my new lifestyle, of not knowing anything about myself and of being caught in a dangerous game of survival of the fittest. But now...this could mean escape.
It gave me...renewed hope.
At dinner that night, everyone was in attendance. I didn't know how long it had taken for Eizo's and Hanako's warning to spread among the group. Had people already been informed even before today about the secret plan being put into action? It would certainly explain Hanako's weird behavior and attitude towards the party preparations.
I looked around the table, making eye contact with a couple others, wondering if they knew what I knew now, if they had already known before I did, or if they were yet to be informed.
Azuma nodded at me, and Kenji winked. Others raised eyebrows, or didn't react.
Taro's note had mentioned that Eizo was having the group inform one another in various ways. Perhaps secret conversations were being held or notes were being passed too, as discretely as possible to avoid detection from the cameras.
It all seemed very risky, and there was a lot about the plan I still felt in the dark about. But what other option was there? At least Eizo's snappish attitude as of late made a little more sense. I imagined how much stress he must've been under, trying to puzzle out a way for us to escape this hellhole and to do so all by himself, in secret…
Eizo: I have one last announcement to make tonight, before the party tomorrow.
I blinked. Eizo had gotten off his seat and was clanging a spoon against his glass to call for attention.
Eizo: Now, this might sound like an odd request to you guys, but...with the upcoming party, there's one last matter I wanted to attend to.
He sighed, as if already regretting his next move, then cupped his hands around his mouth and called out into the air.
Eizo: Monokuma! Hello? Can we talk to y-
Monokuma: You called?
Eizo: [distressed] Ngh- stop doing that!
As if summoned by magic, Monokuma had popped out from under the table and was now propping himself up on Eizo's empty seat, lazing back.
Monokuma: [giggling] Upupupu...you're such a scaredy-pants, Eizo.
Eizo: [annoyed] I most certainly am not!
Monokuma: Well, whatever. [annoyed] So what is it? Whaddya want? I'm a busy bear, ya know! I can't just keep appearing and disappearing as and when you summon me! And I can't help but notice that you haven't started the killing yet! So I'm already in a bad mood! This better be good!
Eizo: It is. I promise. You see...you no doubt know that we're about to celebrate Fukumi's birthday tomorrow-
Fukumi: [excited] Yippee! Hooray! I can't wait!
Fukumi must know too that her 'party' is just a setup to catch Monokuma off guard...is it even really her birthday? I can't ask her these questions right now though...not with the plan still under wraps.
Curiosity burned inside me as I longed for answers…
Monokuma: [annoyed] So? Why should I care about the little brat's birthday?
Fukumi: [sad] Aww…
Eizo: Brat? She's one of your beloved students. Besides, what kind of party would it be if we didn't have a guest-of-honor, our very own headmaster, gracing the event?
Monokuma: [confused] Where are you going with this, exactly?
Hanako: You see, we would like to...cordially extend an invitation to you, to attend the proceedings.
Monokuma: [embarrassed] Me? Oh, I'm so flattered! You people actually like me! This...is the proudest moment...of my entire life!
Kenji: [annoyed] Like hell we-
Samira silenced him with a glare.
Kenji: [annoyed] Ugh…
Monokuma: [thoughtful] Well….I suppose I could maaaybe set aside some time from my super busy schedule to attend! But...what's in it for me?
Eizo: Hmm?
Monokuma: [annoyed] What? I've got to get something out of this, right?
Eizo: [nervous] Um...the love and admiration of your students isn't enough?
Monokuma: [angry] Don't be stupid! [excited] Ooh! You know what would be a great gift? A dead body! Will you finally start the killing if I attend?
Kenji: [angry] You can dream on! That'll never happen!
Monokuma: [angry] You're all a bunch of spoilsports! You know what? I'll come if I want to. And if I don't feel like it? Too bad!
Laughing, he scampered off, back under the table, and we were too slow to catch him.
Miyumi: [nervous] How does he keep doing that so quickly? He's so small…
Buddy barked from where he lay, curled up at Kaori's feet, and she whispered to him, stroking his fur and looking concerned. Eizo met her eyes and nodded knowingly, before turning back to the rest of us.
Eizo: Well...that's all the announcements for today. ...Have a good night, guys. I hope you're all pumped up for the celebration tomorrow.
People began to finish up their food and take their leave. As I left the dishes in the kitchen for those on duty to clean, Kenji came up to me, and I could see the excitement and nervousness reflected in his eyes.
Kenji: Hey...you excited for tomorrow?
Umeko: Very.
I met his gaze with a significant one of my own and we both knew that the other person was informed of the plan too. Without warning, he reached out and took my hand, and gave it what seemed to be a reassuring squeeze.
Kenji: [happy] It'll be fun, I'm sure. A good way to take our mind off our troubles. You'll see…
I squeezed his hand back in return, and was surprised to find myself trembling slightly.
Umeko: I hope so, Kenji. I really do.
Kenji again escorted me upstairs tonight, and I bid him goodbye at the door. I was just finished showering when I heard a familiar knock on the door, and I knew Hanako had arrived to take attendance for that night.
But when I opened the door...
Wakako: [nervous] Hey, Umeko.
Umeko: Huh? Wakako? What are you doing here?
I was surprised. I had been expecting Hanako to be at the door as usual. It wasn't often for people other than her, Azuma and Kenji to be coming up to me.
Wakako: [nervous] Listen, um...I have a request.
Umeko: A request?
Wakako: Yeah, look, I need a favor from you. Pretty please? It'd mean a lot to me…
I've never seen Wakako this nervous before…she's usually always so full of confidence. I wonder what's going on.
Umeko: Uh...sure! It just...you know, depends on what it is.
Wakako shaped her lips into a pout and clasped her hands together in a pleading motion. Complete with a puppy-dog-eyed expression, I knew that whatever it was she wanted, she was trying hard to get it.
Wakako: [worried] Can we please switch rooms?
Umeko: Switch...huh?
Wakako: [worried] Please! I'm at my wits' end here!
Umeko: Hey, slow down...what do you mean?
Wakako: [annoyed] You know, it was just my misfortune to have been sleeping in the room right next to that little troll!
I knew immediately who she was referring to.
Wakako: [annoyed] He pesters me every morning, knocking on my door, calling my name, refusing to leave until I come out as well, and whenever I do, he somehow manages to find a new way to prank me - every single time! First he threw flour at me as soon as I opened my door, then he poured marbles on the floor so I slipped and fell, and just yesterday morning, he-
Umeko: Yeah, okay, I get the picture.
Wakako: [annoyed] The point is, I can't live like this anymore! I've never lived with anyone as annoying as this...this brat! It's like this boy has no limit to how much he can prank someone and how far he can take it! I'll hand this to him - he's relentless and he's imaginative. He's come up with a million and one ways to torment me, but that's a million and one ways too many. And he's always hitting on me! [snide] I mean, of course he can't resist - I am the hottest chick in this inn, clearly - but I still have standards! I can't flirt with a guy who's not tall enough to reach the kitchen cabinets!
That's...a bit of an exaggeration.
Wakako: [distressed] I have to get away from him, Umeko. I have to!
Umeko: Okay, okay, I get it-
Wakako: No, you don't understand. [angry] I. Have. To. Get. Away. From. Him. Or I'm going to lose my mind, and I'm gonna snap, and I'll-
Umeko: Best not to joke about killing him or anything...you know.
Wakako: [annoyed] Whatevs. Can we switch rooms or not?
Umeko: Um...just out of curiosity...why my room?
Wakako: [confused] Huh?
Umeko: Why my room, of all the rooms available?
Wakako: [shocked] Well, I didn't want to ask any of the others on this floor! There are only three girls here, and the rest are all boys! I don't want to end up sleeping in a room that another boy slept in if I can help it, especially with some of these boys. Their beds and showers are just gonna have that musky...male smell to it, and I just - eurgh! I just can't, girl. And do you seriously think I can ask Miyumi to switch? That girl gives me the creeps. I saw her talking to one of her dolls the other day - that Nick dummy or whatev she calls it - and it looked like she was about to kiss the damn thing on its wooden mouth and I'm just like, girl , you're nasty! Like, why was she even trying to wrestle tongues with a toy whose ass she's got her hand up-
Umeko: Alright! Alright! You made your point! Please...no more...let's not turn this into a gossip-fest.
Wakako: [playful] Oops, sorry. I'm used to being a gossipmonger.
...I'm not surprised.
Wakako: [excited] So you'll switch with me? Please, please, please!
Umeko: Are you quite sure me being the only girl you can approach is the only reason to wanting this room?
Wakako: [embarrassed] Heh...yeah, of course! What other reason might I have?
Umeko: Oh, I don't know...perhaps you also wanted to be in the room next to a certain...someone?
Wakako: [embarrassed] Pfft, whaaat? Girl, you cray cray. I don't know what you're talking about.
Umeko: Riiiight…
Wakako: [annoyed] Can we switch, or not? Come on, I don't have all night here to wait for an answer.
Umeko: ...Fine. We can switch rooms.
Wakako: [excited] Yes! You're my girl, Umeko! I'll go pack my things!
Umeko: What things?
But she had already gone, sprinting down the corridor with a spring in her step.
She must really want to get away from Yoshihiki and his incessant pranking, huh?
Or maybe she really did just want to wake up next door to Azuma. With that girl, who knows?
In any case, when she returned, she gladly took my room key off my hands, and when Hanako intercepted us, we explained the situation to her.
Hanako: I can't say I like you switching rooms right now, but I guess...that's really not a big problem. Update Samira's map yourselves; that's your responsibility since this was your agreement.
She left, and I made my way to Wakako's old room.
It was almost exactly like my old room. The same old bed...same monitor...same bedside table...same fireplace...except her room also smelled...aromatic. A mixture of different perfumes and scents hung in the air, and I coughed a little, surprised by how strong it was.
How much perfume does this girl use?
Umeko: Well...I guess this is the new home sweet home.
[Use: Wakako's Bed]
I sank onto my new bed, and realized even the bedsheets smelled of Wakako's strong perfume. Ignoring it, I pulled the covers up and over me, up to my chin, and snuggled in. I knew I was going to need sleep, because tomorrow would be an important day.
Tomorrow, we'd make an attempt to overthrow Monokuma and escape our prison.
I didn't know if we would succeed, but I knew there were many risks involved - not just for us, but for Buddy too, on whom this plan would be dependent on.
Regardless...I was excited. Terrified and nervous too, but undoubtedly excited.
At the very least, we had a plan. It was a shaky plan at best, but it was something, and all I could do was cross my fingers and hope that Eizo and Kaori knew what they were doing.
Surviving Students: 16
Eizo - SHSL Commander
Mordecai - SHSL Marksman
Ichiro - SHSL Botanist
Azuma - SHSL Spy
Taro - SHSL Bookworm
Nagatomo - SHSL Thief
Kenji - SHSL Skateboarder
Yoshihiki - SHSL Prankster
Umeko - SHSL "Amnesiac"
Hanako - SHSL Band Leader
Miyumi - SHSL Ventriloquist
Shizuko - SHSL Actress
Kaori - SHSL Dog Whisperer
Samira - SHSL Street Artist
Fukumi - SHSL Daredevil
Wakako - SHSL Reality TV Star