Chapter 3: Ides of March:

6:31 P.M Day One

Central Colony

Commissary

It had been well over an hour since the 24 teenagers had been thrust into a killing game.

The large procession had elected to convene to discuss their situation in one of the largest areas in the Central Colony.

The Commissary was a massive dining area, that was adjacent to the kitchen and storage area.

The room itself sported two floors for dining and had enough space to fit at least three times their number.

The ceiling was transparent and the stars and the Earth could be seen through the reinforced glass.

The group found themselves seated in the upper level, as they were divided between several large tables.

Some of the group sat with another, while others sat off on their own.

"Well I think we'd be remiss to not start by discussing our situation." Yukiko spoke up breaking the tenuous silence that hung over the room.

Mikhail nodded his head in agreement. "Yes I do believe it's important that we address this situation head on. Lest anyone make a terrible decision born out of desperation." The Taoist mused as he stared over at the Chess Player.

"Our situation? I believe that is abundantly clear. We're somehow on the moon itself, and stranded. We either kill to escape or we never leave get to leave. I think that's about the gist of it." Rene said with a scowl as he crossed his arms.

"Jesus Christ. Are you always this fucking positive?" Natalie said in a sarcastic manner as she tapped her forearm. "Look fuck the little bear. We got to this place somehow right? Let's find a damn ship, and yours truly will get us fucking home."

Dylan raised a brow. "Do you think you'd actually be able to pull that off? A plane isn't the same thing as a space ship, well at least I imagine that's the case." The Diplomat mused.

"Sweetie if I get behind the wheel, there isn't a damn thing I can't fly." The Pilot said with a confident smirk.

Misuzu clapped her hands together. "I think that's a great idea. Instead of worrying about death and some sort of crazy game, let's work on our escape plan. I mean we're all Ultimates here right? Together we should be able to pull off just about anything."

"Suzu is right! The Prosecution wishes to move for an escape plan!" Choko said as she pumped her fist into the air.

"Well should we in fact find a worthy vessel, I feel confident in my ability to assure it's safety. We wouldn't want to suffer an accident after launch after all." Shohei mused softly.

"I must agree with Maeda. I believe my experience with civil engineering could be useful in that scenario." Amare said as she gazed around the group.

"I hate to be a voice of negativity, but we really should gain a sense of our surroundings. Even if there is a vessel, there's no guarantee we'll be able to reach it yet. From what I can gather certain areas are currently off limits." Fukuya said as his brow furrowed. "I'm not saying we shouldn't try, but at the very least we should focus first on taking stock of our surroundings."

"Hey the man makes a good point. There are a ton places to search around here. Maybe we should use these fancy Monopads to check it out first?" Alex suggested as he peered up from his own device.

"Oh no that could be fun! How do we want to start?" Miyaki asked with a warm smile as she seemed to rock back and forth in her chair.

"Well it might not be a bad idea to see where we're suppose to lay our heads. Looks like there's a Residence Hall for the both boys and girls." Lee mused as he lightly adjusted his beanie.

"My someone certainly invested quite a lot of money into all of this. Surely it must have had a different purpose initially." Zalicka said in a sultry voice as her yellow gaze flitted around the room.

"Ah but of course. I very much doubt anyone would invest so much in merely blood sport. Then again the world we come from is a very strange place." Kakeru said with a bemused expression.

"So let's keep this simple. No need to dawdle about. Let's split up into boys and girls and check out where we're sleeping. After that we can split up and check out everything else." Lia suggested.

"I see no fault with that course of logic. I am pleased to note that some of you do possess wisdom." Evan said in a low voice as his hetero chromatic gaze shifted around the room.

"I'd very much like to freshen up myself. I know we haven't been on our feet long, but I already feel exhausted." Sierra admitted with a weak smile.

"This day has been taxing for all of us. A rest would do us all good." Ren said his voice resembling Spike from Cowboy Bebop.

"Let us hope that our eternal slumber does not lie on the immediate horizon." Hikari said in a monotone manner.

A soft snore could be heard from one of the chairs, as Mallory's head was bowed low.

"Ten to one that girl is going to be the first to die." Rene scoffed, before shaking his head.

The Ultimate Luteplayer shot the other boy a disapproving look. "That is incredibly rude. I for one do not find it funny in the least."

"Who said it was meant to be funny? I'm just be realistic. She's already dead, and just doesn't realize it yet." Rene said with a passive shrug.

"NOT ON MY WATCH!" Tae exclaimed as he pumped his fist into the air. "I will not allow a fair damsel to fall on my watch. The stars will give me the strength to smite any villainy!" The Ultimate Hero exclaimed dramatically.

"She seems to suffer from narcolepsy. It's a dangerous enough condition in the real world, here it's far worse. We shouldn't even joke about such a terrible thing." Yukiko said as she offered a chiding look at the Exterminator.

"Fear not. I do share something in common with the bunny man. I would never let anything happen to a beautiful girl. It is a part of my code as a Phantom Thief." Lupin said in a thick french accent as a playful smile teased her lips.

"If we're quite done with small talk, I suggest we gather our bearings while it's still relatively early." Dylan suggested as he shoved his hands into his hoodie.

"I think that's probably a good idea. I'd rather not spend all evening in here bickering." Fukuya mused with a faint smile.


7:02 P.M Day One

Central Colony

Girl's Residence Hall

"You've gotta be freaking kidding me. There's this huge fucking area for the sleeping quarters, and only six damn rooms?" Natalie groaned as she rubbed at her forehead.

"Mon Amie I suppose we shall have to double up. I can certainly think of far crueler fates." The Phantom Thief said as she hooked a finger underneath Sierra's chin. "You wouldn't mind sharing a space with moi would you? In fact we could share just about anything you like."

The Prodigy's face began to heat up. "I don't mind sharing a room Mireille, just please stop teasing me."

"And who precisely said I was teasing?" The dark haired girl purred as she gestured towards one of the doors. "Shall we then darling? I've got a good feeling about door number four."

"Four it is then." The girl said with a tired smile, as she followed in stride with the other girl.

"Misuzu and I are sharing a room. So don't even think about objecting." Choko said with a defiant little smile as she crossed her arms across her blazer.

The Mortician laughed as she threw an arm around her friend's neck. "You don't have to be so worried. I don't think anyone was going to fight you for it." she giggled as the pair headed into the first room.

"Volcano girl. What'ya say we split a room?" The Pilot said as she tapped her foot repeatedly against the floor.

The Volcanologist laughed uneasily. "It's Lia and sure I don't mind that Natalie. I respect a girl who says what's on her mind."

"Heh well you chose the right roommate. Come on let's check this shit out." The brunette said as she gestured at the third room.

"Heya Mallory right? Would you like to share a room?" Miyaki said with a tiny smile as she eyed the red head.

The Gardener offered a sleepy smile. "Mm that sounds wonderful. I can sleep just about anywhere, so I'm not picky. You can choose any room you want." she murmured as she rubbed at her eyes.

"How bout room number six?" The Circus Performer suggested as she held out a hand.

"Sounds lovely!" The red head chirped as settled instead for hugging the other girl's arm.

Miyaki laughed at the girl's friendliness, as she shuffled awkwardly towards their room.

Yukiko's gaze flitted around the room a few moments before a smile graced her lips. "It's Amare right? Would you like to share a room? The most commotion I'll make is an occasional game of chess. "

The Civil Engineer chuckled softly. "No that sounds fine to me. It's been a while since I played, but I'd like to play against you some time." The dark skinned girl chuckled as they headed towards another door.

"Well this isn't entirely a surprise. Not many are eager to share the company of my darling ones." Zalicka said as she stared fondly down at her two snakes.

Hikari fidgeted a moment, before finding her voice. "I don't mind. People tend to avoid me too. I usually make people uncomfortable. Some even think I bring bad luck through my talent."

An amused smile graced the Egyptian's woman's lips. "Intriguing. So it seems we are fellow outcasts. So long as you have respect for my friends here, we will get along splendidly."

"I-I'd like that. To get along with someone, like a friend." The pale haired girl said awkwardly as she stared at the ground.

"Well we certainly can't inspect our room from here now can we?" The Snake Charmer mused with a light chuckle as she slipped forward. "And friendship most be fostered from some point. Shall we?"

The Spirit Medium nodded her head faintly as she followed into a stride after the other girl.


7:33 P.M Day One

Central Colony

Boy's Residence Hall

"We have to share a room? How utterly preposterous. I know none of you people, and I'm suppose to sleep in the same room as one of you?" Rene asked incredulously as he stalked off towards one of the rooms.

Mikhail offered a faint smile. "I will speak to him and offer to share the room with him. I don't want any unpleasantness." The Taoist said as he followed after the other boy.

"Unpleasantness seems to characterize Rene. He is one we should keep our eye on." Fukuya said quietly as he folded his arms.

Dylan clapped the much taller boy on the shoulder. "Ah I wouldn't worry too much about him. He's probably just anxious and uses that attitude to cope."

"My that certainly is one way of looking at things. Though I suppose things are glum enough without assuming the worst." The Playwright mused. "Ruffheiser you care to split a room?"

"Sure. I don't mind that at all." The dark haired boy mused as he laced his hands behind his head, before following after Kakeru.

"Well looks like Lee and I will be splitting a room as well. We're going to take a look around, before checking the rest of our surroundings." Anh said with a polite bow of his head.

Shohei simply nodded as he watched the pair trudge toward another door. His gaze flitted between the remaining boys. "Ah Ren what do you say we take a room? You seem to typically prefer silence, and I can respect that."

The boy's eyes widened slightly before a weak smile tugged at the corner of his lips, before he nodded his head in agreement.

"Looks like everyone is almost paired up." Evan said quietly as he folded his burly arms. "Fukuya would you be opposed?"

"Not in the slightest big guy. Lead the way!" The Gymnast said with wry grin on his face.

Alex bobbed his head back and forth, before feeling someone tapping him on the shoulder.

The boy blinked as he removed his headphones, before gazing around the hall itself. Only to realize there was only one other person left.

"Oh crap." The boy muttered as the boy before him offered a brilliant grin.

"Do not despair. We shall become fast friends, for you have the Ultimate Hero as a roommate." Tae's voice boomed loudly.

The DJ sweat-dropped. "Well glad to hear it buddy." he said, before shaking his head. 'Let's hope the Bunny Hero of the Stars sleeps like anyone else.'


7:54 P.M Day one

Central Colony

Kitchen

The Ultimate Luteplayer whistled softly as he regarded the contents of the freezer. "Well it seems we have enough in storage along to serve a small army. It's a safe assumption that we will not have to worry about food anytime soon."

"Good news because Strawbear here eats like a horse." Choko said as she planted her hands on her hips.

Lee offered a faint chuckle. "So I'm going to bite the bullet and ask, but are you actually serious about the puppet? Or is it just a gag?"

The Prosecutor who was dwarfed by the Kickboxer stalked forward until she was only inches away from the other boy. "A GAG?! You dare insult strawbear?" She asked with a seemingly horrified expression.

"Woah. Now hold on a second. I didn't mean anything by that, I just was curious that's all." The Kickboxer said as he offered the girl a nervous smile.

"CURIOUS?" The girl snorted a moment as her serious expression deflated as she broke into a fit of giggles. "Oh you should have seen your face. Don't worry I'm the Ultimate Prosecutor for a reason. It takes a lot to really offend me. As for strawbear? Well you'll just have to wait and see."

"A question if I may?" Anh asked as he leaned against the counter in the center of the large kitchen. "Does Strawbear like his eggs sunny-side up, scrambled, or another way entirely?" The boy asked with a small grin.

"Heh ask him or her first thing in the morning. Why are you planning to be our chef?" Choko asked with a tiny smirk.

Nyugen rubbed at his chin. "Well I did spend quite a lot of time working in a family restaurant. I'm fairly confident in my dishes, save anything sweet."

Lee let out a relieved sigh. "I'm so glad to hear that Anh. I can't cook to save my life, and I need plenty of protein for my workouts.

"Well that's all there is to it then. The Jury rests because Anh will be our resident cook!" The Prosecutor said as she slammed a hand against the counter.

"Well I certainly I appreciate the vote of confidence. I'll do my best." The Luteplayer laughed.


8:14 P.M Day One

Central Colony

Greenhouse

"Well this is quiet nice. It's reassuring to know that life does thrive in such a place." Zalicka mused as she gazed around the large Greenhouse.

The structure contained artificial lighting, and soil that was clearly foreign to the moon itself.

Row upon row of lush vegetation could be seen throughout the expansive structure.

A great deal of the vegetation was meant of sustenance.

Though a smaller section of the Greenhouse was devoted to flowers and various trees.

Even a few Bee containers could be seen scattered throughout the area.

"Tsk save the fact we're all at the mercy of a stuffed animal. If the person behind it snapped their fingers, we'd choke to death." Rene said as he warily looked around the area. "There's a lot of sharp tools in here, I'll have to make note of that."

"You truly are a suspicious one aren't you?" The Snake Charmer asked as she knelt down, before smelling one of the more exotic flowers.

"Caution is what kept our ancient ancestors from going extinct. You'll excuse me if I don't trust you all implicitly." The Exterminator said as he trudged towards a large shed.

"He seems really cranky. I wonder if he hasn't eaten today." Mallory mused as she rifled through the nearby soil, before humming softly.

An amused chuckle left Zalicka's lips. "Nothing seems to get you down does it?" she asked as she arched a single brow.

The curvy red head lifted her chin up, before the soft expression on her face shifted to terror. "S-Snakes?!" She squeaked as she fell backwards on her bottom, before scooting several feet away.

The Snake Charmer let out an irritated sigh. "Surely you're not just now noticing my darlings, Veeza and Seath. I ask that you show them more respect than that. I would think as the Ultimate Gardner you'd appreciate them more."

Mallory covered her freckled cheeks with her hands. "R-Respect?! Oh well I know they're really important and stuff, I just freeze up when I see one." she said as she peeked through her fingers. "I almost died when I was really little because of a poisonous snake."

"How is that any different from a friendly dog versus a rabid one?" The sun-kissed woman asked. "It is a unnecessary fear. So long as you are mindful and do not provoke them, you have nothing to fear."

"I'll take your word for it!" Mallory laughed nervously as she slowly rose to her feet, before wiping the dirt off her hands.

A playful smile graced the charmer's lips. "Would you care to touch Veeza? Perhaps we can cure your fear."

"T-Touch?!" Mallory sputtered, before promptly backpedaling several feet. "Maybe some other time."

"When she says another time, she means never." Rene muttered as he walked up to the pair. "Not that probably matters, but I just wanted to point out the fact that there is a powerful pesticide in the shed."

The Gardener blinked a couple of times. "Well that's not that strange is it? I don't like using chemicals on anything I grow, but it's not that weird is it?"

The Exterminator rolled his eyes. "Other than the bees that serve to make honey, there shouldn't be a lot of need for pesticide in here. Remember we're not on Earth anymore dummy."

"Hm it is possible that in this killing game, that our captor has left things to encourage murder." Zalicka said with a slight frown.

"My thoughts exactly. I checked what was packed in there, and let me tell you it would do a lot more than kill a few insects." Rene said as he adjusted his uniform.

"So it would kill a lot of insects?" Mallory asked as she ticked her head to the side.

An audible groan escaped the Exterminator. "Mark my word. The first person." he muttered as he turned and began to stalk off.

"First person to do what exactly?" The Gardener asked with a confused expression.

The Snake Charmer shook her head. "I wouldn't worry too much, that one is just trouble."


8:35 P.M Day One

Central Colony

Playhouse

"Woah. This is not what I expected." Miyaki said as she stepped into the threshold of the large colorful room.

The room itself seemed like a child's dream come to life.

Thousands of toys lay scattered around the room, along with a large trampoline and a giant ball-pit.

There were several large Monokuma plushies, that lay propped in the center of the toys.

"This is really something else. It almost looks a really fancy daycare." Ren said in an amused manner. His voice sounded just like Goku from the Dragonball series.

"Hah indeed it does. Though when it comes down to it, we're all children at heart." The Ultimate Hero exclaimed as he lunged straight into the ball pit, before flailing around.

Miyaki leaned closer to the voice actor. "Is it just me or did he just jump like fifty feet from a standing position?"

"Y-Yeah I guess there might be something to his talent after all. It's not just a silly costume." Ren mused.

"Silly? I actually thought it was kind of cute." The Circus Performer said before shrugging her shoulders. "Anyways I think he has the right kind of idea. What'ya say we have fun?"

"But aren't we supposed to be looking around?" Ren asked never falling out of character.

"Ah come on Ren! We are looking around in a way." The blonde laughed as she reached out and grabbed his hand, before guiding him towards the nearby trampoline.

"Well I guess a little break wouldn't hurt." the boy said as a faint smile crossed his face.

"That's the spirit!" Miyaki giggled.


8:58 P.M Day One

Central Colony

Theater

"And action!" Kakeru said from where he sat in the front row.

"Guys do I really have to do this?" Sierra asked from where she stood in a prop castle. She stood some two stories above the stage.

The Playwright cleared his throat. "Where's your sense of drama? Your sense of adventure? You make a perfect Juliet. Just read the script."

The Prodigy groaned. "Fine but I don't want either of you to tell anyone else about this." she said as she swallowed a moment, before starring down at the lines on the paper.

"O Romeo, Romeo! Wherefore art thou Romeo? Deny thy father and refuse thy name. Or, if thou wilt not, be but sworn my love, And I'll no longer be a Capulet." The dark haired girl recited her voice surprisingly confident as her eyes scanned the paper, before she chucked it to the side.

The Phantom Thief discreetly slipped forward without uttering a word. She came to a stop below Sierra.

A few seconds passed, before the Prodigy continued. This time without any kind of visual aid.

" 'Tis but thy name that is my enemy. Thou art thyself, though not a Montague. What's Montague? It is nor hand, nor foot, Nor arm, nor face, nor any other part Belonging to a man. O, be some other name! What's in a name? That which we call a rose, by any other word would smell as sweet. So Romeo would, were he not Romeo called, Retain that dear perfection which he owes. Without that title. Romeo, doff thy name, and for that name, which is no part of thee take all myself."

"I take thee at thy word. Call me but love, and I'll be new baptized. Henceforth I never will be Romeo." Mirelle said as she intentionally lowered her voice as she stared up at Sierra.

"What man art thou that, thus bescreened in night, So stumblest on my counsel?" Sierra asked as she peered downward.

"By a name I know not how to tell thee who I am. My name, dear saint, is hateful to myself. Because it is an enemy to thee. Had I it written, I would tear the word." Mirielle said her french accent prominent as she spoke.

"My ears have not yet drunk a hundred words. Of that tongue's uttering, yet I know the sound. Art thou not Romeo, and a Montague?" Sierra said as she leaned over the railing.

However what followed next was not Romeo's next line.

The Prodigy let out a girlish scream as she lost her balance, before tumbling over the railing.

However rather than colliding against the floor some twenty feet below, she was caught by a pair of arms. "You alright Juliet?" The Phantom Thief asked with a playful smile as her green gaze stared down at the girl in her arms.

"I-I think so. Nice catch." The girl said with a tiny smile, before she heard clapping.

Kakeru stood up, before whistling. "Now that's what I call a riveting scene. I think I actually much prefer this version."


9:12 P.M Day One

Central Colony

Clinic

Shohei raised single eyebrow as he peered through a medical cabinet. "Well at the very least this place seems well equipped. Should we require medicine or even surgery, it seems we have everything we need."

"Yeah fat good it does us though. I mean I know some basic first aid, but do we even have anyone who could preform surgery and shit?" Natalie asked as she examined an X-ray machine.

"Well I'm sure Misuzu has some medical training. I mean I know she's use to working with people who are already deceased, but that has to count for something." The Volcanologist offered as she rifled through a stack of paperwork.

The Pyrotechnican shook his head. "I'm not so sure about that. It might be wise for one or more of us to read up. It's far better to have something and not need it, than need it and not have it."

"Well there's plenty of books lying around. Knock yourself out." Natalie said as she leaned against one of the medical beds. "You know I keep fucking thinking I'm going to wake up, and realize this was some sort of weird dream."

Lia offered a small smile. "I've had the thought a couple of times myself Nat."

"Oh fuck me. Don't call me Nat. Damn that Mallory." The Pilot groaned.

"What's wrong with Nat? There are far worse things to be called." Shohei chuckled as he stared at the brunette.

"I don't know, it just sounds like something my grandmother would call me." Natalie muttered before stifling a small yawn. "Alright I'm done searching for tonight."

The Pyrotechnician rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Well it has been a taxing day. I wouldn't mind a hot shower."

"But what about checking the Morgue? I mean it's right below us." Lia said as she tapped her foot slightly.

"Eh fuck that. Let someone else do it. Come on girl." The Pilot said as she threw an arm around the other girl's neck.


9:27 P.M Day One

Central Colony

Study

The study area was a cozy space and had a large fireplace along with dozens of book shelves, tables, chairs, and several large leather couches.

There were also a chess set, and painting easel off to the side.

Yukiko sat on the couch with her gaze clued to her Monopad. "This colony is quite interesting. The main building we're in seems to contain the boys and girls dormitories, the four cryo chambers, the Commissary and Kitchen, A Playhouse, and a Theater." she paused a moment as her digit flicked across the screen. "However there seems to be two more major structures outside. A large Temple and A Clinic building that has a morgue in the basement."

Amare stared at a set of floor plans, that were laid bare against a nearby table. "While all of this naturally troubles me, I have to applaud the work that went into all of this. Surely the architect behind this would have had to account for a great deal with us being on the moon."

A small smile flitted to the chess-player's lips. "Yes even the air we're breathing is a testament to that. However it does make me curious about these our locations that were mentioned."

Fukuya suddenly slid into a chair opposite Yukiko. "Well likely these out of bounds areas will come into play later. I imagine that's what the rovers outside are for."

The Civil Engineer peered up from the plans she'd been studying, before eying the boy. "You seem quite sure that the peace here won't last long."

"I am. It's not to say that I want anything bad to happen, but we're in a tense situation. I think it's only a matter of time till someone snaps." Fukuya said as he stretched slightly.

The dark haired girl who sat across from him, shook her head. "Now let's not assume the worst. We might be able to bypass our current boundaries and find a solution."

"Maybe, but I doubt someone who went to so much trouble would make a careless oversight." The Gymnast said as he propped his hand against his chin. "I'd love to be wrong though." he shook his head before allowing a smile. "Sorry for being so dramatic. Maybe we should have a nice girl talk. Who do you find attractive?" he asked as his gaze flitted between the two girls.

The dark skinned girl blinked as she stared at the boy incredulously. "W-wait you're just asking like that? I mean we just met each other.

A chuckle escaped the boy. "Hey I didn't say anything about feelings, just if there was anyone you wouldn't mind getting to know better."

Yukiko laced her hands below her chin as her gaze bore into the boy. "You first Fukuya. Anyone special that catches your attention?" she asked as she raised a single brow.

"Well my roommate is certainly a tall glass of water, and with killer pair of eyes. Unfortunately he's as straight as they come. Oh well at least I can appreciate him even if he's off limits. Hm there are a few others, but I'm still trying to gauge their sexuality."

"Surely have better things to do then consider such things." Amare said as she crossed her arms.

"What's wrong with at least appreciating some eye candy? It's a way of escaping our grim situation a moment." Fukuya said with a bemused expression. "Now I believe it's your turn Yukiko."

The curvy dark haired girl sighed as she crossed her arms. "Honestly I haven't given it much though. I mean there are several guys and girls I find aesthetically pleasing if that's what you mean."

"Wait guys and girls?" Amare asked with a slightly surprised expression.

"Surprised? It's not a big deal. I'm Bisexual, but I tend to prefer girls. Though at the moment it's the last thing on my mind." The Chess player chuckled.

"Well that's not as much fun as I was hoping it would be. How bout you Amare? Anyone that catches your eye?" Fukuya asked with a sly expression.

The Civil Engineer waved a hand in front of her face. "Oh of course not. I usually stay too busy to even give that any thought."

The Gymanst sighed. "Well good talk. I should go talk to Natalie, I can almost guarantee she'd offer something amusing."


9:34 P.M Day One

Central Colony

Morgue

"You know under normal circumstances I would be happy to be here, but after the bear's announcement I do feel sort of uncomfortable." Misuzu said with a thoughtful expression, before a radiant smile flitted across her alabaster skin."We just have to make sure no needs this place. I mean everyone dies, but we should be able to enjoy being alive first."

Alex warily starred around the sterile white room and the various instruments, that lay scattered on the nearby operating table. "Yeah don't blame if I steer clear of this place. I don't like the vibe here." He mused as he laced his hands behind his head.

"It sounds like someone is superstitious." Dylan chuckled as he opened one of the freezers, before examining the empty compartment.

"I wouldn't say superstitious, but I'd still rather not think about death all the time." The DJ said as he tapped his foot against the linoleum floor.

The Mortician tapped her chin. "Ya know I've never understood why everyone is so afraid of death. I mean it's just a part of life. I mean it's like fearing the day or night. It's just something that happens to everyone."

The Diplomat laughed. "Well I understand what you're saying, but I don't think everyone shares your nonchalant view of it. Rather I should say no one wishes to meet their end any sooner than they have to."

Alex pointed at Dylan. "You read my mind man. I'm not scared per say, but I'm not about to run headlong into it."

Misuzu reached up to fiddle with her wild cowlick. "Well I guess I shouldn't get into tonight, but I do think there's a big difference in natural versus unnatural death. I'm pretty sure I'd label Monokuma's ideas as the latter."

"Yeah no kidding. Nothing normal about that. Do you guys really think someone might act on it though?" The DJ asked as he folded his arms.

"Well anything is possible. However all the more reason for us to find an alternative solution." Dylan said as he shoved his hands into his hoodie.

"I wonder if we could find a way to get a message home?" Misuzu mused as she leaned against the the far wall. "I'm sure someone out there would hear us."

"Oh you mean like a distress signal or something? I mean there's a lot of fancy equipment here, maybe there's a radio tower somewhere." Alex suggested as a grin spread across his face. "Heck we could just sit back and relax while we wait. This place ain't so bad."

"Unfortunately I doubt Monokuma would allow things to be that simple. I'm sure the person behind this didn't go to such lengths, just to have us ruin it with something so simple." Dylan said as a frown crossed his face.

"Chin up guys. Radio or not we're going to make the best of the situation until we find a way home." Misuzu said with a reassuring smile.

"You really are a ray of sunshine aren't you?" The DJ asked with a tired smile.

"I've already come this close to dying already, I'm not about to ruin my second chance." The girl said as she adjusted her sleeves. "Now let's get back to the main building."


9:53 P.M Day One

Central Colony

Temple

"By Odin's beard, this is quite a structure." Evan said as his hetero chromatic gaze swept across the massive temple's interior.

Both the exterior and interior seemed like a cross of western and eastern cultures.

There was definitely Greek influences and even statues of the Olympian Pantheon scattered around the entrance hall. The whole structure seemed to be created from a white marble. Which spoke more to it's Mediterranean influence.

However there were also Shinto influences present throughout the hallways and the central chamber.

There were rows of seats and finally a large ornate altar, that was a mixture of various religious beliefs blended into one.

At least a dozen different dogmas were marked on the surface of the altar, and a small pool of water rested in front of it.

"Yes I've never seen a foundation that combines multiple religious beliefs into one. It's actually quite tasteful everything considered." Mikhail said as he reached out an brushed a hand against of the marble structures.

"I like this place. I feel more connected with the dead here, instead of whispers I can truly feel them in this place." Hikari said quietly as she knelt down in front of the altar.

The Mythologist scratched at his chin. "All of this is astounding, and yet it makes little sense. To coexist is one thing, but who could have built all of this? Even if the lessened gravity was accounted for, it would still be a monumental task."

The Taoist offered a weak smile as he patted the taller man on the shoulder. "It seems we have yet another question for our captor. Though I suppose we'll have to take it one day at a time."

Suddenly a loud chiming sound could be heard as speakers churned to life within the vaulted ceiling.

*DING DONG*

"With that sound it is officially nighttime kiddos. The Commissary and the Central Colony building will be locked down in ten minutes, restricting access to any facilities outside of this building. Get cozy my little cherubs, sleep tight, and pray you live through the night." Monokuma's obnoxious voice could be heard over the loud speaker, before fading into silence.

"Well then. I certainly believe that is our cue to get moving. I don't mind modest arrangements, but I would prefer a bed to the floor." Mikhail chuckled.

Evan offered a thin smile. "No kidding. Besides we'll need all the strength we can muster from the looks of things." He said before gazing over at the Spirit Medium. "Hikari it's time. We need to get back now or we're going to be stuck outside."

The pale girl lifted her chin. "I will be sleeping here this evening. I need to find my center and listen to what the spirits have to say."

"I don't think that's a wise idea. Look can't can't the spirits wait till the morning?" Evan asked as he folded his arms.

The Taoist raised a hand. "We shouldn't push her if that's what she wishes. I shall stay with her this evening."

"What happened to preferring a bed?" The green haired boy chuckled deeply as he eyed the Taoist.

A soft smile graced the other boy's face. "Well I wasn't lying, but I would not sleep well knowing someone was alone out here. Now go on. We'll see you in the morning."


10:04 P.M Day One

Central Colony

Girl's Dormitories (Room 1)

Each of the bedrooms in both dormitories were massive.

They contained two separate queen sized beds, and looked incredibly comfortable.

In addition there was a sitting area with a coffee table, and a leather couch.

There was also several dressers, a large walk in closet, and two separate desks accompanied with chairs and bookshelves.

The Ultimate Prosecutor stared at the huge mirror and her attire a moment. She wore a pair pink pajama bottoms with a strawberry pattern, along with a white nightie. She smiled faintly as she ran a hand through her dark locks of hair, before she turned the light off.

"Boy it's like being in a Four Star Hotel!" Choko said as she poked her head out of the bathroom, before a grin played on her face. "These bathrooms are like the size of my old apartment. For a kidnapper, they sure gave us a lot of fancy stuff." She mused as she walked into the large shared bedroom, before cracking up in a fit of giggles.

Misuzu stood there turning down her blankets and sheets. She wore a set of velvet dusty pink pajamas, and a pair of pink fluffy bunny slippers. Her platinum blonde hair was styled in two loose braids. "Oh Cho I just finished fluffing your pillows. These beds really look comfy, I might just sleep like the dead." she said, before offering a mischievous wink at the shorter girl.

"Ya know Suzu, that's really not funny. I mean your puns are bad, but sheesh." The Prosecutor said as she crossed the room, before anxiously starring around. "Where is he?" she questioned quietly.

"Oh Strawbear? He's waiting for ya!" The Mortician said with a bright smile, as she pointed at the Prosecutor's bed. Indeed the small bear rested on one of the pillows.

"Phew I must have dropped him when I was getting ready for bed." The tiny girl sighed happily as she hugged her friend. "Thanks Suzu. This is all one big mess, but at least we're in it together."

Misuzu smiled fondly as she embraced the shorter girl. "It'll work itself out Cho. You shouldn't be afraid alright?"

"Tch who said I was afraid?" The Prosecutor murmured softly.

"You're shaking Cho." The Mortician said as she gently patted her friend's back.

"It's just cold in here." The dark haired girl said as her lower lip quivered slightly.

The Ultimate Mortician hummed softly, as she gently squeezed the other girl. "I guess it is a little bit chilly huh? Do you and Strawbear wanna share a bed?"

"You don't mind?" Choko asked quietly her voice a bit more subdued now.

"Of course not! What are friends for? One of my friends gave me her heart, the least I can do is share a little body heat for you Cho." Misuzu said as she pulled back a bitm before offering an encouraging smile.

The Prosecutor smiled weakly. "How do you always do that Suzu? I try to always be so tough, but you never let anything phase you. I wish I could be like that too."

"Memento Mori." The pale girl whispered, before lightly patting her friend's hand. "It's a Latin saying that means remember that you will die, cool right? But if I had to add my own personal touch to it, I'd tell you ne obliviscaris ridere. It means don't forget to smile." Misuzu said as she stared down at the diminutive girl. "Basically you shouldn't worry about if and when something will end, but just appreciate every moment and make the most of it."

A faint chuckle escaped Choko. "You know there's no way I'm going to remember that saying. So I'll just have to remember the meaning."

"Hey that's the most important thing anyways. Now how about we get some shut eye mm?" Misuzu suggested with a wry smile.

"Definitely. I think the plan is to meet in the Commissary at eight anyways. We don't want to be dead now do we?" The Prosecutor suggested, before playfully elbowing the other girl.

"And you said my puns were bad." Misuzu mused before cracking a grin.

"Shut up!" Choko huffed.


10:10 P.M Day One

Central Colony

Hallway

The Ultimate Exterminator scowled as he walked through the hall starring at his Monopad. "No discernible weakness, nor sign of a weakness. Cameras seem to be present throughout the entire facility, even if there was a means of escape someone would likely see our every move." The boy muttered under his breath as he paced the hall.

"Do you always talk to yourself? Or is this merely a special occasion?" Zalicka asked as she rounded the far corner, before eying the boy was dressed down compared to her normal attire, and simply wore a crimson nightgown that tapered off around the middle of her thighs. Both her Cobra and Rattlesnake were still secured around her neck.

Both of her snakes seemed transfixed as they stared at the uniformed boy.

"What are you doing here? Just mind your own business." Rene said in a curt manner as he folded his monopad under his arm.

"You need to calm yourself immediately. Your crude manner and words are only likely to agitate our already perilous situation." Zalicka mused as her bright yellow eyes bore into the boy.

"Are you threatening me? Because believe me I'm not afraid of your pets. I know of more than a few ways to dispose of them like the vermin they are." The Exterminator said as he folded his arms.

The Snake Charmer took several long strides forward till she was but inches away from the boy. Seath her Cobra hissed as he seemed prepared to strike in a moment's notice. Veeza on the other hand was wary, but seemed less hostile at the moment. "If you ever so much as think of harming my loved ones, I will show you personally who the true vermin really are. I will show you nor anyone who mistreats them any mercy." She purred a Seath slowly uncoiled from her neck, before inching towards the boy.

The boy tensed as he gritted his teeth together. "Call it off." he said in a shaky breath.

"This darling has a name. His name is Seath and he is not an IT. Now apologize to both of them for your lack of manners." Zalicka said as her eyes narrowed dangerously.

"I-I'm sorry. I'm sorry for what I said, just please don't hurt me." The boy wheezed out as he stared into the cobra's unflinching gaze.

The Snake Charmer made a very soft clicking sound with her tongue. Slowly Seath retreated, before returning to his coiled position around Zalick's neck. Veeza chidingly spat at the cobra as he returned to his former position.

"I am not an unfair individual. Consider this your warning Rene. Respect my babies and those around you more, or you may find that I won't call him off next time." Zalicka said as she turned, before promptly sauntering off leaving a very shaken boy in her wake.


10:15 P.M Day One

Central Colony

Temple

"It was not necessary for you to remain here." Hikari murmured as she sat cross-legged in front of the large altar.

A smile graced the Taoist's face as he slumped into a pew a few feet away. "Yes I suppose that's true. However I knew I would have trouble finding sleep knowing you were alone here."

"That is quite thoughtful of you. Do you always risk your own well-being for a stranger?" The Medium asked as she cracked a single pink eye open.

The boy clutched at his crucifix a moment as he smiled thoughtfully. "I'm no saint. I've done things I'm not proud of, but I devoted myself to the idea of spreading positivity throughout the world. The idea if I could even affect a single soul would have made it all worth it. That's why I'm here. I believe you might need that kind of guidance."

"I'm not sure you can help me. The longer I remain here, the more I can feel the departed. Twelve souls who died in such horrific manners. Their presence stands out against the void of space to me. You should know that I have been known to adopt characteristics from the dead I channel. At times it is not a matter I have control over." Hikari said as she pressed her palms flush against one another.

Mikhail nodded his head somberly. "And do you suppose there is anything we can do to give these souls solace? So they might be able to move on?"

"That differs from person to person I'm afraid. No two souls are a like. Some remain tethered out of grief, anger, others out of the inability to let go." Hikari offered in a somber tone.

"Do you find it difficult? I mean to be connected like that?" The Taoist asked as he rested his hands into his lap.

"Difficult? That is hard to answer, as I have always been connected. I think I would find silence even more troubling. In any case I wish to focus." She said softly.

The boy offered a faint smile, before nodding his head. "Of course. I'll make myself comfortable and leave you be."

"Mikhail?" The girl asked as she cracked a single eye open.

"Mm?" The boy responded as he leaned back against the pew.

"Thank you. Most people always try to get away from me, not that I blame them." She offered quietly.

"There's no need to thank me Hikari. Appearances are rarely what they seem. I will sleep better knowing you're not alone, then I would in a comfortable bed back in the main building." The boy offered as he slowly shut his eyes.

The pale faced medium offered no further verbal response, however her lips twitched into a faint smile.


10:24 P.M Day One

Central Colony

Boy's Dormitories (Room 2)

"I don't suppose you checked out the Clinic yet?" Evan asked as he slid a puzzle piece across the coffee table, before fitting it into place.

Fukuya's gaze scrutinized the hundreds of pieces, before picking up one and immediately sliding it into it's appropriate place. "Well I can't say I have. Though my plan is to become familiar with every inch of this colony tomorrow." he said, before raising his chin. "Why is there something you're interested in?"

The Mythologist frowned slightly as he slowly crossed his legs. "Admittedly I have Type One Diabetes. If I can't find a source of Insulin, this killing game may be the least of my concerns."

"Diabetes? I can see what you'd be concerned." The Gymnast frowned slightly. "Hey you have my word that we'll turn that place upside down tomorrow. After all I can't let anything happen to my cute new roomate."

Evan snorted before folding his arms. "Fukuya you know that I'm not gay right? Not that there's anything wrong with that."

The other boy laughed as he ran a hand through his short blue hair. "Hey I know that, It's not like I'm pushy about it. Doesn't mean I can't admire the view though." he mused with a thin smile.

"You're impossible, but I thank you for offering your help. I'm not typically good at talking with people, but I realize the divine wisdom of adapting to a situation." The Mythologist mused as he rifled through a series of puzzle pieces.

Fukuya smiled thoughtfully. "Well adapting may be our best chance of surviving. I don't know if there is an easy way out of this, but those who can't adapt quickly may be the first victims."

Evan paused a moment as his hetero-chromatic gaze settled on the Gymnast. "You seem quite sure that bloodshed is inevitable."

"I'm just following my observations Evan. We're in a game that someone has clearly spent a long time concocting. You don't go to this much trouble, just to make a clerical error. Then of course we don't actually know much of anything yet. It seems there's a discrepancy in our numbers for one. If what we're told is true, eight among us are not who they seem to be. We could very well have moles in our ranks."

"That is a disturbing thought." The Mythologist muttered as he gently placed a piece onto the table. "Though you made no mention of this earlier this evening."

Fukuya offered a passive shrug. "The truth is overrated sometimes big guy. Sure I know something is off, but I'm almost positive that a lot of people here aren't ready to hear my theories."

A low chuckle escaped the burly boy. "And yet you seem entirely calm."

"Hey for all you know that's just a cover too. Believe me though, I do have everyone's best intentions in mind. I just don't think think spreading paranoia is wise right now." Fukuya said as he immediately picked up a piece, before placing it in it's proper position.

"You're really good at this and I thought myself adept at puzzles. You're quite an enigma." Evan mused.

"What you rethinking your policy on only being interested in women?" Fukuya smirked impishly.

The boy rolled his eyes. "Don't push it Fukuya."

A laugh escaped the Gymnast. "Sorry Evan, you just make it too easy."


10:35 P.M Day One

Central Colony

Girl's Dormitories (Room 6)

The Ultimate Gardner let out a sleepy yawn as she rubbed at her freckled cheeks, before stumbling into the bedroom.

"Oh there you are Mal. I was just about to check on ya!" Miyaki said with a smile, before she burst into giggles as she saw the girl's pajamas.

The red head wore a set of green froggie pajamas, with little multi colored frogs all over her top and bottoms. She even had a pair of fuzzy frog slippers with bulging eyes. The top was overly large to compensate for her ample bosom.

"Eh? What's so funny?" The red head murmured with a sleepy smile as she ran a hand through her wild locks, before peering down at her clothes. "Oh they're so comfy and they look just like Kaeru!" She girl said as she bounded forward, before hopping onto her bed.

"Kaeru?" Miyaki questioned with a confused look.

Mallory fished through her blankets a moment, before pulling out a large green frog stuffed animal. The plush was very worn and seem well loved. She squeezed it against her chest a moment, before holding him up. "Miyaki meet Kaeru!" She exclaimed with a jubilant smile.

"Nice to meet you Kaeru." The blonde laughed as she offered a thumbs up, as she lay sprawled on her own bed. "So Mal what took you so long? I thought you were just brushing your teeth and changing clothes?"

"Oh. I don't know. I think I might have dozed off a couple of times." The red head said with a cheerful expression as she snuggled with her beloved stuffed animal.

"Jeez girl I'm going to have to keep a close eye on you. I don't want to scare you, but being a narcoleptic here of all places could be really bad. You don't have to worry though, I've got your back." Miyaki said as she rolled over onto her stomach, before stretching her legs.

The freckled girl offered a sincere smile in return. "I'm not really worried. I mean this place is kind of scary, but we can be friends and we have plenty of stuff to do. I can grow just about anything here, so we just have to make the best of a bad situation ya know?"

"Wait you're saying you don't mind staying here?" The Circus Performer asked with a surprised expression.

"Well I would miss my Mama, Papa, and the rest of my family but I don't want to hurt anyone. I just want to see things thrive and not wilt." Mallory murmured softly as her eyes suddenly fluttered, before a rhythmic breathing could soon be heard.

"I think that's a wonderful goal Mal." Miyaki mused as she quietly stood up, before she slipped towards the light switch.

"Goodnight Mal." She whispered, before shut the lights off.


10:49 P.M Day One

Central Colony

Boy's Dormitories (Room 1)

"My you're certainly committed to your regiment." Anh mused with a slight smile as he sat on the edge of his bed, the sound of his lute filling the room with a warm cadence.

The Ultimate Kickboxer was on the floor doing one finger push ups. His brow was dripping with sweat. "One Hundred and Ninety Six, One Hundred and Ninety Seven, One Hundred Ninety Eight." He said as he clenched his jaw. "One Hundred and Ninety Nine...Two hundred."He breathed, before he let his arms go slack, as he caught his palms against the carpeted floor. "Heh did you say something Anh? I was kind of in the zone. Sorry I swear I wasn't ignoring you." he said as he he panted lightly.

A chuckle escaped the Lute Player as he paused his playing, before offering the other boy a smile.

"You don't to apologize. Even I can be lost when focusing on talent. Such concentration just shows how much love you have for your craft, and the dedication you have." Anh said as he drummed his digits along the neck of his lute.

"Heh I guess you're right. I just keep thinking that I have to be at my best. If something happens, I have to be able to protect those who can't protect themselves. My Master would have wanted me to do everything I can." Lee mused as he rolled over, before sitting up. "Besides I can't exactly shut down right now. I keep thinking about this whole situation."

"I see. Well perhaps a nice pun will lift your mood." Anh coughed a bit before speaking. "Why did the burglars decide to rob a music store?"

Lee's purple gaze fixated on the Luteplayer. "Not a clue, because they wanted more bank notes?" he asked before offering a halfhearted chuckle.

A grin played on Anh's face, before he shook his head slightly. "For the lute," He answered happily before receiving an eye roll in response.

"Alright you're officially barred from making jokes, that was terrible." Lee laughed as he grabbed a towel, before wiping the sweat off his face.

"Well that's certainly unfortunate. I suppose I'll be limited to playing my Lute from now on." Anh sighed dramatically.

"Heh I bet some of the girls would appreciate that actually. You should try that one on Miyaki, Misuzu, Mallory, or Choko." Lee said as he sat back on his bed.

Anh strummed at his Lute a moment. "What do you think of Miss Hajjar? She's quite captivating isn't she?"

The Kickboxer let out a low chuckle, before rubbing at his jaw. "I mean she's absolutely gorgeous, but she's not exactly my type."

"Ah so what precisely is your type? This is a nice distraction wouldn't you say?" Anh smiled as he continued to pluck at the strings filling the room with a lovely sound.

Lee rubbed at the back of his neck. "I don't know. Someone to balance me out I guess. Kind and optimistic, with a sense of vulnerability."

The Ultimate Luteplayer smiled thoughtfully. "So you're looking for a gentle soul that you can protect? Someone who can rely on your prowess as a fighter?"

"You make it sound weird when you explain it like that Anh." Lee chuckled lightly.

"Not at all. It's good that you can be honest about things like that. I'm no fighter, but I can understand the desire to want to protect others. To be able to preserve a brightness in what may become a very dark place." Anh said quietly.


10:58 P.M Day One

Central Colony

Girl's Dormitories (Room 3)

"Fucking hell I can't go to sleep!" Natalie groaned as she thrashed her legs around, before kicking off the covers.

The Pilot was wearing a revealing red silk nightgown, that was a size or so too small for her voluptuous frame.

The Volcanologist sighed as she cracked a single eye open. "Nat I was almost asleep that time. Just close your eyes and try to settle down if you can."

The brunette huffed as she fiddled with a simple silver necklace that hung from her neck. "I'm just too keyed up Lia. I mean shit we're on the fucking moon. How the shit did that even happen?"

"You know when I see the stars, I see hope. Although I am admittedly a little frightened right now, I just look at the stars around us-even closer up here-and I…I feel safe, protected but I cannot give up hope. Just have a little faith things will work out." Lia said in a softer voice.

"Who said I was scared? I'm just too wired to sleep right now." The Pilot muttered.

"You're not going to stop talking are you?" The red muttered as she sat up, before clumsily reaching for the lamp on her nightstand.

"Nope not a damn chance." Natalie mused as she folded her arms across her ample cleavage.

Suddenly a faint light bathed the room in soft glow.

The Volcanologist by comparison was far more modestly dressed. She wore a simple pair of plaid amber and grey striped pajama buttons, with a short sleeved grey shirt with a central image of an erupting volcano in the center.

"Fine if you're going to be that way, let's at least make good use of the night. Shall we conduct our own investigation?" Lia asked.

The Pilot's eyes widened as a grin pulled at her face. "Shit I knew I liked you. Come on girl. The others can kiss our asses when we find a way off this fucking rock." She laughed as she threw her legs over the side of the bed.

"Nat are you seriously going to wear that?" Lia questioned as she slowly climbed out of bed.

"What? Who's going to get an eyeful? The bear? Don't worry about it." Natalie grinned as she put on some slippers. "Where to first firecrotch?"

"F-Firecrotch? What kind of nickname is that?" she said in a hushed whisper. She followed after the other girl as she slipped on some slippers as well.

"So the carpet does match the drapes? Huh I knew it. Look I'll be honest, that's just the first thing that came to me. Give me sometime, and I'll come up with something better." Natalie said as she approached the door.

"Or you know you could always call me Lia?" The red headed suggested.

"Sure I'll do that as soon as you stop calling me Nat." The Pilot quipped.

"Touche." The redhead muttered as she followed the brunette out into the hallway.


11:06 P.M Day One

Central Colony

Boy's Dormitories (Room 4)

"Shohei are you almost finished? I'm getting really tired." Ren whined in his best Goku impression. The boy wore a grey sleeping mask, a grey long sleeve shirt, some orange sweats and a pair of reddish slippers. He lay on his bed as he watched the other boy finish his work on their door.

The Pyrotechnician let out a relieved sigh as he brushed his hands off. "Yes I believe that should be sufficient. It's crude but I feel safer knowing we have a secondary lock on our door now." he said he tugged at his blue tank top a moment. "Phew it's a shame the shower isn't available now. Though I suppose I can do that in the morning. It wouldn't hurt to check the bathroom for any dangers either." he mused as he stalked over, before sitting down on the edge of his bed.

"You're really obsessed with safety aren't you? I mean not that that's bad or anything." The Voice Actor said continuing his impression.

A sad smile graced the tall boy's lips as he cast a glance over at Ren. "Yes well I once made a horrible mistake as a result of being careless. Considering the inherent danger of my work, I work tirelessly to make sure it remains safe. I do like bringing joy to those who enjoy fireworks. It's an inexplicable feeling seeing the reaction it brings. Though I imagine you must understand that yourself, by being able to give voice to so many fascinating characters."

The Ultimate Voice Actor offered a weak smile, as he leaned back against his bed. "When I was younger those characters and their voices were a sense of comfort. I didn't have the best childhood."

"Well I do not intend to pry unless you feel the need to share. Though I assume it has something to do with your disdain for your own voice." Shohei said as he switched off the light, before collapsing onto his own bed.

"I-I think I was silenced so much when I was younger, that I can't stand to hear my own voice. It's been so long, I can hardly remember how it even sounds." Ren offered quietly his impression never wavering. "Anyways I don't really feel like talking about it. I-I'll see you in the morning?"

"Of course. Should you oversleep, I'll make sure to wake you in time for the meeting." Shohei offered. "Goodnight Ren. Let us hope we find a solution swiftly."

The Voice Actor offered a thin smile, as he shut his eyes. "I really hope so. I don't want to see anyone hurt. Goodnight."


11:15 P.M Day One

Central Colony

Girl's Dormitories (Room 4)

"Oh dear. Oh dear. This is all just too much to take in." Sierra whispered as she paced back and forth across her bedroom.

The short dark haired girl wore a loose black panic at the disco T-shirt, and red short shorts.

"S-Sierra can you please stop pacing? If that's okay? Sorry I'm just so nervous." Mirielle murmured as she sat cross legged on her bed with a worried expression. She wore a set of white silky pajamas.

The Ultimate Prodigy bit her lower lip as she stopped, before offering an embarrassed expression. "Oh I'm sorry. I just sometimes get overloaded and get sort of jittery." she mused, before she cocked her head to the side slightly. "You and the other you are so different. How does that even work? How does it feel when you're not the one calling the shots?" she asked as she slowly crossed the room, before taking a seat next to the other girl.

Mirielle pressed her index fingers together shyly, as her green gaze settled on the shorter girl.

"We..well...Whenever Lupin is dominant, my consciousness is submerged somewhat. Basically I go into a trance-like state. I'm not fully asleep, though, so I am aware of the general situation. Just not many details. "..."How does it feel? Well...I feel very relaxed... like I'm floating inside a pool of warm water... and everything looks fuzzy and hazy...kind of like dreaming while awake. That sounds really weird doesn't it?" she stuttered as she eyed Lupin's mask on her nightstand.

"No way. I wish I had a mask to put on when I feel self-conscious or unsure of myself." Sierra admitted with a sheepish expression. "I um I'm only fourteen so I was excited to be invited to Hope's Peak. I even got to skip a grade, but I feel so inadequate sometimes. I mean I can't do anything special, other than learn stuff quickly. I'm not a master of anything, but just a jack of all trades."

"I-I think that's pretty great though. I put so much faith into Lupin, but without her I feel useless. With your ability you can do so many things, but I'm only useful at one thing and I'm not even the one who does it." Mirielle said as her lower lip curled inward.

Sierra playfully punched the other girl in the shoulder. "Hey don't be so down on yourself. I think you're pretty great, both of you. I mean there has to be a reason why of all people Lupin works with you right?"

"Y-You really think so?" The French girl asked as her eyes widened slightly.

"Of course. I mean you're like a super hero! Or I guess maybe a super villain, but at least you're a really cool flashy one." Sierra chuckled

A tiny smile pulled at Mirielle's lips. "Maybe one day I can be just as useful as Lupin. That is my dream, that one day I won't hold her back."

"That's the spirit. Now what do you say we call it a night? My brain is totally fried." The Prodigy snickered.

"Yes I think I could use some rest as well. Thank you Sierra. For being so understanding, and for putting up with Lupin. I know she's a handful." Mirielle mused.

"Hey it's no big deal. I-I uh really don't mind that much. You're both pretty great to me." She said as she turned on her heel to hide a faint blush, before she approached her bed and dove face first into her pillow.


11:28 P.M Day One

Central Colony

Boy's Dormitories (Room 5)

"Huh you really wrote all of this?" Dylan asked as he flipped through the manuscript with a keen interest.

The Ultimate Playwright offered a tired chuckle. "Yeah I appreciate you actually showing so much interest. It's hard to find a lot of people who appreciate the Theater these days."

The petite boy shook his head. "That's truly a shame. I think you have a masterpiece here. Of course I'm not a theater buff, but you really poured your soul into this. Does it have a name yet?"

Kakeru laced his hands behind his neck as he stared into the star-filled heavens. "I had been been struggling with a name, but I think I've been struck with inspiration. How bout Midnight Sun?"

"Sounds like a sold out show to me." Dylan mused as he carefully rested the script onto the nightstand. "I hear you put on a show earlier, do you enjoy yourself?"

"It was certainly entertaining. I'll say this, we're certainly not surrounded by dull people. There are so many personalities under this one building, it's almost astonishing." The dark haired boy mused.

The Diplomat cracked a weak grin as he turned off his lamp. "Honestly I could do with a little less excitement myself. Dull people are far easier to read."

"You afraid someone is going to actually do what that crazy bear suggested?" The Playwright asked as he tilted his head slightly in the other boy's direction.

"I don't know. That's what worries me, I consider myself adept at reading people. However Ultimate can be very tricky. You never really know what their true intentions are." Dylan said as he shut his eyes.

Kakeru offered a dry chuckle. "Yeah I guess you make a good point. I guess we'll just have to remain cautious."

"Indeed we will. In any case I'd like to get a little sleep tonight. There's no telling what tomorrow holds." Dylan murmured.


11:42 P.M Day One

Central Colony

Girl's Dormitories (Room 2)

"Checkmate." Yukiko said as she released her black bishop.

The Ultimate Civil Engineer groaned, before rubbing at her eyes. "That is the seventh game in the row. I thought I was half decent at this, but clearly I was mistaken."

A chuckle escaped the busty brunette as she rested a hand against her chin. "Amare don't be so hard on yourself. If I wasn't good at this, I wouldn't be living up to my talent right? Though by comparison my skill pales in usefulness to your own. I can compete in competitions, but you have a guaranteed career."

Amare offered a thin smile in response. "I suppose that's a good point. Though it's a moot point now. If we don't get home, concerning ourselves with the future is pointless."

The Chess Player slowly rose to her feet, before stretching her limbs. "Let's try to stay positive alright? Tomorrow is a whole new day. Perhaps we make some head way."

"Of course. Don't think for a moment that I've given up." The dark skinned girl mused as she rubbed at her eyes, before eying the clock in the room. "Is it really almost midnight?"

"Heh I suppose time flies when you're having fun." Yukiko laughed as she paced across the room, before collapsing onto her bed.

The Civil Engineer chuckled lightly as she ran a hand through her short hair. "Perhaps though I don't think that was particularly fun. At least not losing that many times."

"Then next time you can pick the game alright?" Yukiko suggested as she eyed her roommate.

"Fair enough. I'm not use to having much free time, but I suppose that may be inevitable in our situation." Amare said as she flicked off the light switch, before approaching her bed. "Do you think anyone will act on the bear's sick little game?"

Yukiko shut her eyes, before sighing softly. "Honestly it's too soon to tell. After all most of us are complete strangers. For the time being we have to put our faith in one another, and hope it's not betrayed."


12:01 A.M Day Two

Central Colony

Boy's Dormitories (Room 3)

"...and it was at that moment that I Oki Tokki rescued two children from a burning building, before leaping out before it collapsed!" The Ultimate Hero said into the darkened bedroom.

Alex groaned as he removed his head from beneath a pillow. "Tae Min my man, can you just dial it back a little bit? It's already after midnight and we're suppose to be in the Commissary at Eight."

The pale boy laughed. "My apologies. I do get caught up in my stories. Fear not I will cease further communication."

The Ultimate DJ sighed as he rolled over onto his side a moment as he stared into the darkened room.

The only light was from the stars, and the Earth itself that hung in the night sky.

"Hey let me asking you something. You have to be something else right? I mean you do things other than your hero gig right?" Alex asked quietly.

There was a brief silence, before the DJ cleared his throat. "Tae Min?"

"Oki Tokki didn't have much of a childhood. He doesn't really know what it means to be anything other than a hero." The other boy's was now surprisingly subdued.

"Sounds rough. How did you find out about your um talent?" The DJ asked as he rested his arms over his chest.

The Ultimate Hero stared through the window at a constellation. "I didn't find my talent. It was created for Oki Tokki. The Horizon Corporation called it Project H.E.R.O, but Oki Tokki doesn't wish to discuss his origins any further tonight."

Alex's brow furrowed slightly. 'I guess even someone as upbeat as him has his baggage.' he mused to himself. "Alright man well goodnight."

"Rest well my friend. Your safe slumber is assured." Tae Min in a suddenly upbeat voice, before silence once more overtook the room.


8:21 A.M Day Two

Central Colony

Commissary

Misuzu stifled a small yawn, before sliding the door to the Commissary open."Good morning!" She exclaimed in a chipper expression.

"Suzu! What took you so long? I even woke you up in time. You were suppose to be here at Eight!" Choko huffed as she crossed her arms across her blazer.

"My, my, that was irresponsible from me! So sorry!" The Mortician laughed as she adjusted her satchel over her shoulder.

"Hey it's no biggie. I mean we're still missing a few people anyways. No reason to miss a beat over something so small." The Ultimate DJ mused as he placed his headphones into his jacket.

Amare sighed at the boy's nonchalant attitude. "When we establish a schedule, we should abide by it. It's also our way of checking roll Alex."

Anh emerged from the kitchen balancing a few trays. "Ah I see that most of us are now accounted for. Good morning Miss Shiina." The Luteplayer offered her a smile, before he set to the task of serving the various dishes.

"Morning Anh!" The pale skinned girl chirped as she slipped into a seat next to the Ultimate Prosecutor. "Aww don't be upset Cho. I just lost track of time." she said as she promptly hugged the other girl.

"Fine just be punctual next time kay? I was getting worried and stuff." The girl huffed slightly.

"U-Um excuse me? Who are we still missing?" Mireille asked as she held up her hand nervously. Her mask was currently off and her other persona was still nowhere to be seen.

"Well it seems that Mallory, Mikhail, Rene, and Miyaki are still unaccounted for." Shohei offered thoughtfully as a rested a hand against his chin. "Perhaps we should consider searching for them? They've not responded to my messages either."

"Jesus Christ. It hasn't even been half an hour. There's no reason to be panicking for no damn reason." Natalie mused as she leaned back in her chair, before adjusting her uniform.

"Nat I think everyone is just on edge because of yesterday, we're sort of expecting the worst. I'm sort of with Shohei. I think we should give it a few more minutes, before looking for them." Lia mused, before she eyed Hikari. "Mikhail stayed in the Temple last night right? Do you have any idea where he might have gone?"

The Medium rubbed at her forehead, as if she was in pain. "Forgive me. I'm not feeling so well. It is my understanding that Mikhail was going to take in the gardens in the Greenhouse. That was well over an hour ago though."

"Well then it is quite possible he simply lost track of time. It is an abstract concept here." Zalicka said as she traced a digit along Seath's head.

"Maybe but that doesn't explain Miayki,Mallory, or Rene's absence." Sierra said as she lightly jabbed at the food on her plate.

"Well it certainly wouldn't surprise me if Rene had no intention of showing in the first place. However I do find it strange that neither Miyaki or Mallory would be here. They don't seem like the type to miss meetings, and they are roommates. Perhaps this does require an investigation." Fukuya said as he laced his hands together. "At the very least it might give us some peace of mind."

"Then shall we get to the bottom of this? Is it simply something mundane? Or is there treachery afoot?" Kakeru chuckled lightly as he brushed a few bangs out of his face.

"That's not even funny." Yukiko said as she eyed the Playwright. "Though it seems we're not going to get anywhere, until we get to the bottom of this." she said as she pushed her seat back, before standing up.

"Alright so let's put this on hold for the moment till the others are found." Dylan said, before offering Anh an sympathetic. "Sorry your food is going to waste."

"There's no need to apologize. It's nothing that can't be replaced. People are a far different story." The Luteplayer offered.

Suddenly an ear piercing scream could be heard in the distance.

"So much for this being a simple case of tardiness. Hermes is at our backs, so let us move swiftly." The Mythologist said as he bolted to his feet before storming off.

"I have no idea what he just said, but I think he has the right idea." The Kickboxer mused as he flipped out of his chair, before following after the larger boy.

Tae slowly rose to his feet, before adjusting his helmet. "If Villainy is a foot, Oki Dokki will show no mercy. Up up and away!" The Ultimate Hero exclaimed as he bent over a moment, before launching forward so fast that it created a gust in his wake.

The Voice Actor stared in shock for a long moment. "So maybe there's a good reason why he's called the Ultimate Hero." he said his voice now resembling Edward Elric.


22 Survivors Remaining


*AN*