Chapter 7: First Blood

5:58 P.M Day One

First Floor

Dormitories

"Nnn…gah…." Makoto groaned with a slight wheeze, as he finally began to regain consciousness.. Yet as his vision started to clear, his eyes widen in surprise as he looked up and saw a black ceiling with white crosses on it.

"Huh… W-Where in the world am I?" He muttered out loud in confusion.

"Welcome back sleepyhead."

He tried to make sense at what was happening, before realizing he was on a soft white sheeted bed. As his vision adjusted, he noticed a beautiful blue haired girl sitting in a chair next to his bed.

"Oh-! Sayaka!" He exclaimed as he nearly lunged forward. His face flushed with embarrassment, as he sat up suddenly.

"How you feeling? You know from where Mondo hit you?" She asked with concern while nervously examining the young boy for any signs of discomfort or pain.

Makoto gave a surprised expression before it softened slightly. He tried to look tough despite the soreness he felt in his body. He didn't want overly worry Maizono.

"Makoto…?" Sayaka's expression became more concerned, as she noticed the slight blush on his face.

"Oh, uh, I'm fine I guess, but I just realized I was out cold before we finished forming our group. What happened what are you doing here?" he asked as he offered her an embarrassed smile.

"Actually… I came here for you."

"You came… for me?" Makoto asked somewhat in surprise as he saw Sayaka look at him with a somewhat intense expression.

"Well yeah. It was Hina's idea actually. Several of us were worried about you, after what Mondo did." she frowned slightly, before continuing. "Anyways I was hoping if you really are feeling better, that you might come to the dining hall. The rest of the group is waiting on us."

"The rest of the group ?" He asked in confusion as Sayaka nodded her head confirmation.

"After you got knocked out, we continued filling up the group. We looked around for a bit, but agreed we'd all get together in the dining hall this evening and talk. You've been out cold for a several hours now. It's actually dinnertime now." she said as she offered him a sympathetic smile.

"W-wait I've been unconscious that long?" Makoto sputtered. "If everyone is waiting for me, then of course I'll go. It's sounds like a missed a lot!"

"That's great!" Sayaka said cheerfully, before she eyed him dubiously for a moment. "Are you are sure your ok, Makoto? "

"U-Uh, no, I'm alright... just a little bit tired that's all and dizzy." Makoto said quickly as he tried to hide his face from the beautiful blue haired beauty. "P-Perhaps Mondo's punch did more than I originally thought after all. " he chuckled sheepishly.

"Oh dear! You should really go lie back down then!" Sayaka said with a worried expression. She tried to guide him to lay back down, but stopped when Makoto shook his head.

"N-No, that won't be necessary!" The Ultimate Luck assured her. "I'm just a little dizzy and wobbly that's all. I'll be fine in just a moment. I promise."

"Well if you say so… But you're not going alone!" Sayaka said with a determined expression, as she gently grabbed ahold of Makoto's right hand. "We'll go into the dining hall together, but if I see a slight look of pain on your face, you are heading back to bed." She gave him an intense smile, and Makoto knew that no matter what he said she would do it in a heartbeat.

"O-Ok, Maizono...you have my word." He agreed with a slight sigh which caused Sayaka to giggle softly, as she began to lead him towards the dining hall.


6:06 P.M Day One

First Floor

Dining Hall

"Welcome everyone. I'm glad to see you all." Kaede's infectious smile, seemed to put the rest of the gathered group at ease.

"Heh well after all the work me and my sidekick did today, there's no way we'd let you down." Kaito grinned as he threw an arm around Shuichi's neck.

Tenko folded her arms. "Why do I get the impression that Shuichi actually did all the work, but Kaito is hogging the glory? Typical male behavior. Don't you think so Himiko?" her expression softened as she glanced over at the Ultimate Magician who sat with her staff resting in her lap.

"Nyeh. I don't really care." The petite girl admitted with a sleepy expression, before she shot a small smile at Nagito. This didn't seem to go unnoticed by the Aikido Master, who let out a soft sigh, as she folded her arms in frustration.

The white haired teen sat across the table, his chin propped against his hand as he regarded each of them quietly.

"I'm sure everyone did a lot more work then we did." Tsumugi offered a sheepish smile, as she folded her hands into her lap.

Yamada swallowed what was in his mouth, before grinning widely. "I don't know Princess Serenity. I had a great idea for my next story."

Tsumugi face turned red as she began to furiously adjust her glasses, as she mumbled something incoherently.

"Princess Serenity?" Shuichi blinked, as he stared at the fanzine artist.

"It's from Sailor Moon right?" Kaede asked as she looked between Tsumugi and Yamada. The later of which stared at her with happy tears in his eyes.

"A world where not one, but two girls actually read manga?! This must be heaven." Hifumi exclaimed in an excited voice.

Kaede laughed softly. 'Well it's great to see that those two are getting along so well. Yamada seems pretty easygoing.'

"Iunno this seems pretty far from heaven." Himiko mused quietly. "But it could be a lot worse. Thank you for earlier big bro." The girl actually smiled softly at Nagito, who seemed surprised by the nickname.

"It was nothing. Anything to help the rest of you shine brighter. Besides a mage needs a staff right?" Nagito offered a dry chuckle.

Tenko bit her lower lip. "H-Himiko you can call me big sis if you like. I wouldn't mind."

"No I'm okay." The girl deadpanned, causing the Aikido Master to noticeably wilt.

"So what's the game plan? Shuichi says your the boss. Have anything you wanna say?" Kaito asked as he folded his hands behind his head.

The Ultimate Pianist blinked, before her purple eyes flitted to Shuichi. "You think I should be in charge?"

Saihara felt his face heat up as he lowered his head slightly. "Uh well. It's just that you set everything in motion. I-I think you would make a pretty great leader." he admitted timidly as his gaze settled upon the table.

Kaede felt her cheeks heat up slightly, as she glanced around the gathered group. "Well if that's how everyone feels. I'll do my best." she offered as she awaited someone to voice their disagreement. However it never came, a few seconds passed, before the Ultimate Luck spoke up.

Nagito offered a low chuckle. "Pretty sure you're the only one who didn't already expect it."

"Heh I guess so, either way I won't let you all down." Kaede said with an air of confidence, as she looked around the table. "Pretty sure everyone else is doing something similar, but let's agree to meet here every morning. Beyond that..uh let's avoid being alone throughout the day like Twogami suggested. I guess the only other thing is we need to agree to stay in our rooms after curfew." As her words fell across the table, raised voices could be heard from the other group occupying the Dining Hall.


6:14 P.M Day One

First Floor

Dining Hall

"Well look who it is!" Junko exclaimed with a grin, as Sayaka and Naegi made their way into the Dining Hall.

"Naegi!" Asahina squealed happily as she beamed at the sight of the boy.

"Hehe hey guys. Sorry for keeping you waiting." he chuckled nervously as he rubbed the back of his head in a sheepish manner.

Seated at the table were Asahina, Sakura, Junko, Keebo, and Rantaro.

Junko flashed a mischievous grin as she folded her arms across her chest. "Well that took a while. Did you get our little Naegi up and roused Maizono?" she snickered as she suggestively wiggled her eyebrows causing Saiyaka's face to turn purple.

"J-junko! I-I...it just took a minute to explain a few things to Naegi." the pop idol huffed earning another smirk from the fashionista, before Asahina lightly elbowed the blonde in the side.

"Junko maybe you should give poor Makoto a break? Last thing we need is for him to lose consciousness again." Nagito offered in a mild tone.

The fashionista snickered to herself. "Fine take the fun out of life." she chuckled.

The brunette's seemingly pleased enough with her response tilted her head as she offered Naegi one of her infectious smiles. "Welcome back Naegi, you had us really worried! Sakura said she'd lay out Mondo if ever tried that again!" the swimmer stated as she shadow boxed the air a couple of times in quick succession earning a faint rumble from the Ogre sitting next to her.

"Asahina dear...I don't think we have to worry about that. I think even Mondo regrets his outburst, but I will not allow any further violence to occur if I can help it." she smiles slightly.

Maizono would slowly take a seat as Naegi settled in a seat between Asahina and her. "I have to say I feel a lot safer having the Ultimate Martial Artist with us." Sayaka smiled gently.

Naegi smiled. "I know I'll certainly sleep better." he laughed.

Hina giggled. "Right?! Oogami kicks so much ass!" she exclaimed.

Sakura merely chuckled at the their comments. "I appreciate the high praise, but perhaps we should discuss the matters at hand."

Rantaro nodded as he folded his hands on the table. "Agreed. I'm not sure what all Maizono told you, but we should probably get you caught up with what's happened while you were indisposed."

Naegi's brow furrowed a bit. "That's right I haven't had a chance to actually explore this place."

"Like there's not too much to explain with that." Junko mused as she folded her arms behind her head.

"What do you mean?" Naegi asked in confusion.

"It seems that the other floors to the school are like currently out of bounds. Along with the dormitories, there is this dining hall and kitchen, the gymnasium, the laundry room, a bathing area, an AV room, the nurse's office, an incinerator to dispose of trash and some sort of storage area. Beyond that we noticed there are a few rooms that are locked at the moment." The Fashionista chimed off.

"We couldn't find vulnerable spot anywhere. Those iron plates seem to be everywhere and a security lock is engaged on the stairwell." Sakura offered.

Asahina frowned. "Yeah and Sakura gave it her best punch and those suckers didn't even budge."

Makoto's gaze flickered to K1-B0. "You couldn't even open it Keebo?" he asked as he quirked a single brow.

The Ultimate Robot bowed his head slightly. "Unfortunately I do not possess superior strength, or even super intellect. I was created to be relatively normal." he admitted as he folded his arms across his chassis.

"Then it seems that we're forced to abide by the rules for the time being, but there's no reason to lose hope. I'm sure an opportunity will present itself." Rantaro mused with a wry smile.

"I know I do feel better about this whole group idea. It kind of reminds me of having to pick a group for a class project. Honestly I think I would be panicking if I was sitting alone in my room." Sayaka smiled weakly.

"Byakuya or whoever he is seemed to have the right idea." Naegi mused as he looked around the group a moment.

"Which sort of reminds me? Where did everyone else end up? I mean I know that we're still going to see everyone everyday, but I'm just curious how the rest of the groups formed. I-I kind of missed most of that.." Naegi laughed halfheartedly.

Asahina deflated a bit. "Um well I tried to keep track of everyone, but...there's a lot of new faces and I still haven't put names to everyone's faces yet." she playfully stuck out her tongue.

"No worries after we got Naegi settled earlier, I talked to some of the others and I have a pretty good idea of the other groups. I mean we could always just see tomorrow morning, but why wait?" Rantaro offered with a faint smile

Naegi returned the gesture with a wide grin. "That's great man. We owe you one."

"Well like don't keep us in suspense. So spill." Junko grinned earning a couple of chuckles from the other girls.

Keebo smiled as he leaned forward eagerly. "Indeed I'm quite curious as well."

Rantaro folded his arms slightly, as he leaned back in his chair. "Well there's Fuyuhikio's group which consists of Mondo, Ishimaru, Akane,Gonta, Nekomaru, and Peko."

Asahina blinked a couple of times. "So wait I can sort of understand some of them...but Ishimaru? What's mister hall monitor doing with the two thugs? And Gonta he seems like such a sweetie."

"I suspect Ishimaru intends to be there to curb any trouble, but it does seem like a recipe for disaster. As for Gonta, I can't honestly say." Rantaro mused.

"Let's have a little faith in Ishimaru, maybe he'll fair better at playing mediator then I did. At least I know Gonta shouldn't do anything cruel. Maybe he'll be a good influence too." Makoto chuckled half heartedly.

"Fair enough. Well let's see there's Sonia's group that's comprised of Leon,Angie, Hagakure, Gundham, Ibuki, and Kazuichi." Rantaro rattled off, as he drummed a finger along the table.

"Only real weird part of that group is that Gundham guy. He really gives me the creeps. " Maizono shivered slightly.

"If I have to hear him talk about the Four Paths or the Underworld one more time I'll like scream." Junko grumbled.

"I don't know Angie sort of makes me nervous too." Asahina shook her head as if banishing a thought. "She asked me for a blood sacrifice earlier. I think she was serious too."

"Probably nothing harmless. Nevertheless dear, maybe you shouldn't talk to her alone." Sakura mused with a guarded expression.

"Well Sonia seems to have the best grip on handling people. If anyone can handle the pressure, it's her." Naegi grinned sheepishly.

"Moving on. There's the Imposter's group with Hiyoko,Toko, Hanamura, Kokichi, Celestia, Kirumi, and Korekiyo."

"Hm what a peculiar group. Wonder how that came to be." Sakura mused, as she cast a glance over at Rantaro who smiled in return.

"Seems like they were the stragglers. Twogami took on himself to take the remaining students into his group. He seems to be keeping a lot of people's nerves calm despite this entire mess."

Naegi smiled. "Imposter or not, I think I like him a lot better than the original. So who exactly does that leave ?"

"Well since Togami refuses to be a part of any of this it only leaves two groups. There's Hajime's with Mikan, Mahiru, Fujisaki,Miu, Kyoko, and Chiaki." Nagito offered.

"That boy's got a little harem going..." Junko chortled to herself, earning a couple of blushes from Maizono and Asahina.

'I have to say I'm curious how Hajime ended up stuck leading his group. Then again I guess it's not that surprising. Kirigiri is all mysterious and doesn't talk a lot, and Mikan, Fujisaki, and Chiaki are all a bit shy or socially awkward. There's Mahiru, but she seems to have a thing for a guy taking charge. I kind of feel bad for him. How in the world though did Miu end up there? I almost feel sorry for Hajime. Almost' he chuckled to himself, before looking around the table for a moment.

"Then finally there's Kaede's group." Rantaro chuckled as he gestured at a table across the cafeteria. There seated around a similar table were Kaede,Shuichi, Himiko, Kaito, Tenko, Yamada, Tsmugi, & Nagito.

"So Kaede's in charge of a group huh? Wow a lot happened while I was out. So now that I think about it...who's our Captain or whatever it was the Imposter was suggesting?" Naegi asked as his gaze still flicked around the table.

There was a brief pause, before Asahina allowed a mischievous grin to play on her lips, as she playfully swatted the table.

"That would be you Captain Naegi!" she exclaimed with a mock salute.

"W-wait what? Why me?" Makoto sputtered as he glanced around the group for a moment.

"Come on guys. I don't have a great track record. Last time I tried to take charge I got knocked into next week by Mondo."

"That's true, but you also didn't hesitate to say something when the rest of us were just watching that whole mess. Things could have gotten a lot worse if you hadn't stuck your neck out like that Naegi!" Sayaka said as she laced her hands together and smiled.

Makoto rubbed the back of his head, as he regarded Rantaro a moment.

"Don't look at me Makoto. I don't have it in me to be a leader. And honestly I just don't want the responsibility." The green haired boy chuckled.

"And I do not think the other groups would be as agreeable with me as a leader. There are still many robophobes." Keebo mused with a frown, as he folded his arms.

"Don't worry so much Keebo. We all love you." Asahina smiled sweetly. She patted the boy on the back, causing his face to change colors.

The swimmer seemed oblivious to the fact, that Keebo was about to short circuit as she offered Naegi a smile. "You're not alone kay Makoto? So don't fret."

Junko shrugged, before offering a faint smile. "Look it all makes sense to me. I figure we should pick someone we could trust to keep things from going off the rails."

"Don't worry so much Naegi! It's not like it's anything super big. You're just gotta keep tabs with the other captains. Besides it's not like we're not gonna be with everyone else a lot, this group stuff is just a good idea to keep us together throughout the day so we're all safe." Asahina offered in a bubbly tone.

"So as long as we stick to the curfew all should be well." Sakura added with a small nod.

Makoto pushed aside his doubts, as he allowed for a small sigh. "Well if you're all set on this. I swear I'll do my best." he said mustering as much confidence as he could manage.

"That's the spirit Naegi! Now come on let's grab some food. I really hope they have donuts!" Asahina squealed as she bolted to her feet.

"Donuts before bed?" Junko questioned as she quirked a brow.

The tanned swimmer offered a cheeky grin. "Of course Donuts are perfect any time of the day. Ooh maybe with some milk to drink." she mused as she stared over at the nearby kitchen.

"Huh if she eats donuts all the time, I wonder where all the weight goes?" she drawled out with a smirk, as her eyes shifted to the ditzy swimmer's huge chest. Asahina flushed as she turned her head noticing where Junko was looking, causing her to promptly fold her arms over her chest.

"W-what are you suggesting Junko?" she stammered slightly."

"Just don't over do it Hina. Those things get any bigger and I'm not sure they'll serve as flotation devices anymore while your swimming." she snickered as she stood up and stalked towards the kitchen. Asahina puffed her cheeks out as she chased after her. "J-Junko! that's so mean." she cried

There was a brief pause amongst the rest of the group before a series of snickers erupted from the rest of them. Even Keebo had an amused smile on his face, all except Oogami.

Sakura's brow furrowed. "I don't mean to be rude, but does anyone else notice something strange about Junko?"

"How so?" Sayaka questioned as she stared at the martial artist.

"You mean her appearance." Rantaro questioned already picking up on her suggestion.

"There are inconsistencies I have observed as well." K1-B0 mused with a thoughtful expression.

"Indeed. When I asked her earlier she said it was merely the magic of photo shopping for magazines, but her features seem so different." Oogami mused as she stared towards the kitchen where Junko and Asahina had disappeared to.

Maizono tapped her chin. "Actually when you mention it...I did find it strange that THE Junko Enoshima was actually wearing a wig."

"A wig?!" Naegi blinked. "H-how could you know that?...your intuition again?" he asked as he stared at the blue haired beauty.

A giggle escaped Sayaka as she shook her head. "No nothing like that this time. It's not something a boy would like realize, and with no disrespect but Sakura and Hina aren't very girly, so their probably not as familiar with it, but even a great wig is obvious if you have a good eye." she said with a small smile.

"Your powers of observation are impressive." Rantaro chuckled.

"Indeed though I suppose it changes little. For all we know Junko is simply a product of a lot of marketing and computer magic." The Ultimate Robot added.

Makoto rested his hand against his chin a moment. "Regardless no good can come from distrusting our friends. If there's a story there...I'm sure Junko will tell us when she's ready." he offered a faint smile.


6:38 PM Day One

First Floor

A.V Room

"Kyoko, are you sure you won't reconsider? I think you'd be a much better leader than me." Hajime frowned at the recent development as he looked around the AV room.

There seated amongst him were Kirigiri, Fujisaki, Mahiru, Mikan, Miu, and Chiaki.

"Jeez stop being such a fucking little bitch. It's a waste of god damn time." Miu groaned as she leaned back in her chair. "Ya know how many fucking guys would jump at the chance to be the leader of their own fucking harem? and here you are whining about it."

Hajime's mouth fell open, as he just stared at the busty inventor for a long moment. He would have to 'thank' Chihiro later for this. She certainly was ...opinionated. "Miu this isn't a harem." he deadpanned.

"Well shit. I got all excited for no reason. Guess I'll have to let my vibrator finish the job later." The blonde snorted loudly.

Mikan's eyes went wide as her face flushed a deep crimson, as she pressed her index fingers together. "Miu is quite honest about her private time." she murmured softly.

"Jesus Iruma would you give it a damn rest?" Mahiru growled as she shot Miu a sharp look.

The Ultimate Inventor seemed to immediately deflate, as she began to nervously tousle her hair. "S-Sorry." she offered meekly.

Kiri let out an audible sigh as her attention settled on Hinata.

"Hajime like I said earlier. You don't give yourself enough credit. You're better with people than I am, well honestly better than the rest of us. We're not exactly a very social group." The lavender hair girl mused, as she looked between the rest of the group.

"Hey what's that suppose to mean?" Mahiru huffed as she folded her arms, as she propped her feet against one of the computer desks.

"U-Uh I think Kiri's t-trying to say Hajime is the best choice. Y-you and Miu are a bit a-abrasive." Fujisaki stammered shyly.

"Abrasive?!" Mahiru scowled slightly as she fiddled with her camera lense a moment.

Miu snorted quietly.

Mahiru gritted her teeth. "What?"

"Nothing. It's just that tatertot put you in your fucking place. You should see your damn face. It looks like you swallowed a big load. It's alright though, better a swallower than a spitter." Miu laughed raucously, as she jabbed a finger at Mahiru.

"You dumb blonde bimbo. I'm going t-." Mahiru was cut off as Chihiro gently pressed a hand against either of their shoulders. "Stop fighting. Please."

Mahiru sighed as she turned her head away. "Fine Fuji. But only for you."

Miu had a surprisingly reserved expression, as she eyed the petite girl. "Yeah whatever. Fire Crotch wasn't worth my time anyways."

"Fujisaki is right. This is exactly what Monokuma wants to see from us. When we fight amongst ourselves, he's wins. So no more of that." Hajime offered as he looked around the group.

"I-I t-think y-you'll d-do g-great H-hajime." Mikan stuttered in a soft manner, as a shy smile crossed her lips.

Hajime rubbed the back of his head a moment at the praise, before glancing over at Chiaki who's face was glued to her handheld device. She'd yet to say hardly anything.

"Chiaki what do you think? You really think I'm the best choice to be speaking for the rest of us?"

The gamer slowly pried her gaze away from the piece of tech. She yanked her hood down over her head, as everyone scrutinized her. Her pale pink gaze flitted around momentarily, before settling on Hajime.

There was an awkward silence, before she finally smiled as she nodded. "Yup. None of us are very social, but you can speak up and say the right thing. You're the best choice for sure." she mused softly.

Hajime blinked. 'I think that might be the most I've ever gotten out of her at once. I had no idea she thought so highly of me.' he mused to himself.

"Well I guess it's settled then. I don't know the first thing, about leading...and I don't even remember what it was that made me special enough to be picked by Hope's Peak, but if you all think I can do it...then I'll do everything I can." he offered thoughtfully, as he looked between all of the girls.

Kiri offered a faint smile. "Well now that it's officially settled. How do you want to proceed going forward?"

Hajime's brow furrowed slightly. "Well...I think we should meet with the others every morning in the Dining Hall. It's just a good way to do roll call, make sure everyone is present and accounted for. Beyond that we stay together throughout the day and we all agree to abide by the curfew. During the day if any of you girls have to go to the restroom...I'd suggest never going alone. Like the Imposter said...there are strength in numbers."

"Make's sense to me. No one is stupid enough to try anything so long as we're in a group like this." Mahiru said with a confident grin.

"Iunno know fire crotch. There's a lot of dumb fucking people here." Miu smirked.

Kyoko quickly spoke up hoping to head off another argument between the pair. "All the same we shouldn't get complacent. There are a lot of clashing personalities and we should remain vigilant in case something does in fact happen."

"I-If I-I m-may I-I'd like t-to look at the n-nurse's office t-tomorrow. S-so I-I can p-possibly help s-someone incase we do h-have any i-injuries." Mikan stammered as her gaze shyly flitted around the room.

Kyoko rested her chin against her palm a moment as she regarded the nurse. "I think that would be wise. Worst comes to worst we should be prepared."

Fujisaki fidgeted slightly in her chair. "Um about tonight. Are we still set?"

Hajime's tilted his gaze to the clock on the wall. "Yeah shortly after curfew, Fujisaki, Chiaki, Kyoko, Miu, and I will check it out.

Mahiru stood up first as she stretched. "Works for me. Mikan and I can take it easy for the evening then. I don't know about the rest of you, but after today I'm starving." she mused as she stood up and headed for the door.

Hajime smiled slightly as he watched as Mahiru, Fujisaki, Chiaki, and even Mikan quietly converse as they headed towards the door. Miu offered him a mischievous grin as she stood up, before trailing after the other girls. Only Kiri had hung back with him, as they walked towards the door.

"Hajime?" the lavender haired girl asked quietly as her gaze flickered over to him.

"Something wrong Kyoko?" he asked softly.

"No it's nothing like that. I just have a good feeling about you. I think you're strong...that you can handle this place. Just keep in mind not everyone has that strength."

The boy stopped for a moment as his eyes widened at her words, before he solemnly nodded. "Maybe you're right, but if that's the case it's all the more reason for us to stay together right?"

Kiri allowed a trace of a smile. "Well said." she offered with a light smile.


8:45 P.M Day One

First Floor

Dormitories

Celestia idly curled a strand of raven hair around one of her digits, as she watched the Utlimate Imposter pace back and forth through his room. "Your anxiety is showing darling. Perhaps you should take a seat." she suggested with a forced smile.

Twogami paused midstride, as his gaze settled on the Ultimate Gambler. He had no illusions in regards to his group, most of them were comprised of social outcasts. Only time would tell if they would abide by the rules, let alone anyone else. "We're still too exposed. Without knowing more about everyone, it's hard to anticipate who might be a greater threat. If I can't anticipate so many variables, it makes protecting all of us improbable."

The Ultimate Gambler let out a soft sigh. "Dear you have to stop looking at this from such a naïve point of view. Whether it's a day or a week, someone will eventually find a means of spilling blood. What we can do is limit those opportunities, so when they do transpire they will be easier to solve."

The heavy set boy scowled. "Are you always this pragmatic?"

"I prefer a realist darling. The sooner you accept that yourself, the better." The Lolita girl mused as she rose to her feet, before dusting her dress off.

"Celestia. You read people for a living. What is your take on our group?" The Imposter asked as he scrutinized the pale beauty.

"Would you prefer a sugar coated version or the truth?" She smiled lightly.

"I think you already know the answer." He frowned.

"Very well then. I'm not a psychiatrist, but I will do my best. Hiyoko strikes me as someone who acts out, because she lacks certain social experience. Its a means of attention. In very many ways she acts like a child, rather then her own age. I don't see her as a potential threat in regards to murder, but her tongue may cause tension amongst others. Something to keep in mind."

"Kirumi is quite lovely. Very composed and highly intelligent. She could prove a wonderful meditator. I suspect the only reason she wasn't absorbed into another group, was because she was for more concerned with tending to the rest of us. I don't know much about her, but as of now she doesn't seem like the type to be easily prompted into murder. Then again, if she does we know she's quite skilled in cleaning up after herself."

Celestia made a slight disgruntled expression. "Hanamura is a disgusting pervert. Though he seems to be a coward as well. I wouldn't expect him capable of planning anything that required a strong stomach. Though I suppose it's possible someone could easily coerce him. "

"Korekiyo. I have no reason to expect anything nefarious, but something about him unsettles me. Perhaps it's just the peculiar mask, but it makes my skin crawl. He seems to be well educated and highly intelligent. Just to be safe I'd suggest keeping an eye on him."

Celestia's heels clacked across the floor, as she had begun to pace herself. "Fukawa is rather intelligent herself, but like Saionji she suffers from social ineptness. Seems she's also incapable of stomaching blood. She passed out for a while, after Naegi was attacked. She does seem to have a fondness for the real Togami. Something for you to keep in mind."

The Imposter chuckled lowly. "You've been paying close attention Celestia."

"But of course. If I'm going to be killed, it won't be from a knife in the back. Speaking of which..Kokichi, I'd keep a close eye on him. I was nicknamed of the Queen of Liars, but even I have trouble spotting all of his duplicities. There can be no doubt that he's a compulsive liar, which means anything from something menial to something critical could be a lie. He also seems to be quite amused by all of this. I wouldn't rely to heavily on anything he might saying during a trial."

The heavy set teen frowned as he removed his glasses, before cleaning the frames with a cloth. "And what to you make of me?"

An amused chuckle escaped the Gambler as she made her way towards the door. "An enigma to be sure. Though as an imposter, you do seem a smidge softer than the original. No pun intended though darling. I get the sense that you mean well." she mused as she waved her hand dismissively. "I'll see you in the morning. I'm sure I'll need my beauty sleep for whatever tomorrow holds."


9:36 P.M Day One

1st Floor

Hallway

"I think we might need a few more practices, before we're ready to go on tour. I'm just glad we found a few instruments in that storage room." Kaede smiled softly, as she walked in tow with Sayaka, Leon, and Ibuki.

"Shit that still hurts!" Leon winced as he pressed his right hand against his left arm, that was in very shoddy makeshift sling.

"Well Ibuki told you that she wasn't a very good doctor!" she exclaimed.

Kaede had to raise a hand to her mouth to stifle a giggle, earning a sharp look from Leon. "I'm sorry Leon, but with your hair and your arm like that, you look like a rooster."

"Kaede! That's not very nice." Maizono bit her lower lip as she felt tears stinging the corners of her eyes. She leaned against Kaede, before she erupted into laughter. "He sure did crow pretty loud though."

"Ibuki thinks the 'Rooster' did a fine job. Especially his scream at the end." The Ultimate Musician mused.

"That was literally when I fell off, and dislocated my freaking shoulder!" Leon exclaimed.

"Ibuki knows. It was so PRIMAL!" She exclaimed, causing the other two girls to erupt into another fit of giggles.

"Yeah freaking laugh it up. I guess this wasn't the best start for my music career." Leon groaned loudly.

"Pssh! Ibuki's done some pretty dumb things too. One time Ibuki tried to leap into a crowd off of the stage. Didn't realize no one was standing there, so she just face planted cement. Was out cold for a few hours." she laughed as she clutched at her sides.

Maizono flushed slightly. "I had clothing malfunction involving my dress. I didn't realize until halfway through my set. I panicked and tried to run off stage, but then I tripped over the microphone cord. The tabloids didn't let me hear the end of that one for months."

Kaede sheepishly rubbed the back of her head. "I once preformed for a King. I was suppose to have my own grand piano, but there was accident involving the moving truck. So intended up having to go live with keyboard. It was mortifying. I was so nervous that froze halfway through the first song, before forgetting everything that came afterward."

Leon blinked as he looked between the girls. "Huh and you all kept on kicking ass and taking names right?"

"Hehe I guess you could say that. Everyone stumbles at some point, you just have to pick yourself back up." Maizono smiled softly.

"Couldn't have said it better myself Sayaka." Kaede smiled fondly at her new friend.

"Guess next time you'll have to just sit and watch me and the girls ROCK!" Ibuki yelled out loud, as she suddenly bent backwards. She began to play an invisible guitar, her calloused fingers strumming those imaginary strings with a blazing speed.

Maizono sweat dropped. "Kaede is a classical pianist and I'm a pop singer. I-I'm not sure we're ready to rock Mioda."

"Uh yeah. Maybe we should find a balance that fits all of our styles?" Kaede suggested.

Ibuki nodded furiously. "Kaede on piano, Sayaka on vocals, and Ibuki on guitar and writing the music then!"

Kaede and Sayaka exchanged a concerned look as they came to a stop, at the west wing dormitories.

"Sorry that things didn't go so smoothly ladies. Appreciate you for bearing with me." Leon laughed, as he rubbed the back of his head with his good arm.

"Hey don't be so hard on yourself. Rest well and make sure you go see Mikan in the morning." Maizono smiled softly.

"Yeah if I don't feel better by tomorrow morning I will. I just rather everyone not hear about it." he grumbled.

"Ibuki won't say a word!" she declared as she offered him a peace sign and grin.


10:17 P.M Day Two

1st Floor

A.V Room

"So what's the plan Chihiro?" Hajime asked quietly, as he stared around the dimly lit AV Room. Only a single computer monitor was on to illuminate the room.

"Fujisaki is something of a prodigy when it comes to computers, if she can manage to hack into the Mastermind's network we may be able to find out the reason for our incarceration, maybe even who's behind all of this." Kirigiri offered quietly.

Hajime's eyes widened. "Wait that's brilliant. Could this actually work?" he breathed softly as he stared at the programmer who sat in front of the computer monitor.

"There's only one way to find out.." Chiaki offered quietly as her attention was focused on the computer screen as well.

"Fuck yeah. Then once we're done, we can throttle that sick fuck in all the worst ways." Miu grinned as she gripped the back of Fujisaki's chair. "Come on tatertot! You've got this shit!"

"Miu for the last time. Be quiet." Hajime furrowed his brow slightly, as he stared at the busty blonde. Fortunately her submissive side took over at his tone, as she meekly nodded her head.

"Yes sir." Iruma stammered.

"Chihiro..whenever you're ready." Kyoko said in calm tone, before she peered at the screen herself.

"I'll do m-my very best." Chihiro said in a determine voice, but her voice still had a timid edge to it. Having already turned on the monitor she continued to boot up the computer. There was a small flash of light as the display on the screen came into focus as Academy's emblem popped up as the background. The shy programmer began to set to work writing a program. However no sooner did she pull up the program access file, did the computer abruptly turn itself off. This left the five in the dark, as a sense of confusion and panic began to set in. Suddenly the overhead light flickered on.

"What happened…?" Hajime asked before jumping back in surprise, as a familiar and dreaded shape landed on the desk in front of all of them.

"Tsk! Tsk! What naughty boys and girls you are! You know that you shouldn't mess around with things that you know would make your favorite headmaster angry!" Monokuma growled out in childish anger as he paced up and down the desk, before glaring at the now scared programmer and by extension the other four students.

"I thought I didn't need to write a rule for this, but clearly I was wrong. I hope you're prepared for the proper reprimands!" Chihiro's eyes now were starting to fill to the brim with tears as she was overtaken by absolute terror.

"What do you mean? I don't remember you ever saying we couldn't do something like this." Hajime stepped in quickly to defend the petrified programmer from Monokuma's wrath. Despite the feeling of fear that was building in his stomach at meeting Monokuma's mad gaze, Hinata knew he couldn't forgive himself, if he didn't stand up and protect Chihiro in a moment like this.

"Well I thought that was fairly self explanatory, but it would seem I was wrong. Seriously kids these days, no respect for other people's property. Anyways she broke the rule of tampering with the A.V.'s computers so she now gets to be punished!"

"No she does not." Chiaki stated calmly as she stepped in to help Hajime defend Chihiro. "You stated that if a rule was broken then we would be punished. However since that rule is not written down into regulations in our e-handbooks, then it doesn't count." The sadistic teddy bear made no retort or moved from where he stood on the table, but the four students felt like his eyes were burning holes through each of them.

"Indeed feel free to add another rule at your discretion. However you cannot punish us for rules you have yet to create." Kyoko responded with a sharp glare as she stepped beside Hajime and Chiaki.

"Shit everyone is acting all cool. I can't just act like a little bitch. You fuck with Fujisaki, and I'll rip your damn arm off and shove it up your furry ass!" Miu grinned as she stepped next to the trio, before jabbing a finger at the bear.

The Programmer blinked a bit, as she looked between the foursome. To have so many people standing up for her, it was such a bizarre and yet wonderful feeling.

"..Ah fine you brats got me on a technicality. No need to get all pissy! I am such a horrible headmaster. How could I be so careless." Monokuma huffed, before turning his attention once more to Fujisaki.

"Since it was my mistake, then I shall leave you all with only a verbal warning. However I expect you to not to do such a thing again, unless given proper permission! Furthermore consider yourselves fortunate I'm feeling lenient or I could really bust you all for breaking curfew." he laughed behind his paw as he shot intense stares at the five students who all cringed under his focus.

"Yuck yuck yuck. I'm just kidding. I don't care if you wanna run around after curfew, makes it easier for one of you lot to turn up dead. That's just more fun for me. Now if you five don't mind, I am going to go add that rule to the regulations of your e-handbooks!"

Just as suddenly as he appeared, the little monster of a bear jumped behind the desk from whence he came and disappeared without another word. Another long silence filled the room, before Hajime let out a pent up breath.

Speaking of the programmer, she started to cry openly after Monokuma left. The gamer placed a comforting hand on the trembling innocent girl's shoulder, before whispering soothing words to help calm her nerves. It took several moments, but Chihiro finally calmed down before wiping the rest of the tears from her eyes.

"W-W-Well…. I guess my p-plan was a bad idea after all….. I am s-s-sorry to even ask you guys to be here…." The little programmer apologized with a sad look on her face.

"No your wrong." Hajime said quickly much to Chihiro's surprise. "Your plan was great Fujisaki, but since Monokuma is always watching we couldn't help that. I'm sure that if we had a bit more time and no Monokuma, you could have gotten to the bottom of this place." he smiled slightly.

"He's right. This was always a risk, but I'm proud you for being willing to take the chance." Kirigiri offered as a weary smile teased her own usually stoic expression.

"Yeah that fucking build-a-bear reject got pissy, because he knew we were on the right damn track. Fucking asshole." Iruma scowled slightly.

"R-Really you guys think so?" Chihiro asked with a bit of hopefulness in her eyes.

"Of course," Chiaki answered this time with an encouraging smile. "Under normal circumstances you could have probably gotten to the bottom of this with your programs. So don't underestimate your skill or yourself." The little programmer stared in stunned silence for a few moments, before her eyes started to water again. Fearing that they had made the little programmer upset, Hajime took a step forward as he tried to think of something to say to assure the girl.

"I am a-alright." She reassured the four of them. "I am just really happy that you all believed in me so much. I k-know now that I need to try harder to help everyone escape from this wretched place!" She slowly pushed herself up out of the chair, before offering a deep bow towards each of them. " Thank you all so much! Now if you will excuse me...I really should get some sleep." she smiled faintly."

"I'll walk you back.." Kyoko said quietly as she ushered Fujisaki towards the door.

"Yeah I'm fucking beat too." Miu cursed, as she followed after the pair.

"Well it's just us now." Chiaki said calmly. She pulled out her videogame from her pocket, before starting to play it again. It was as if Monokuma hadn't threatened them with punishment just moments ago. It surprised Hajime at how calm and collected the adorable gamer was. He couldn't help, but to admire how quickly she'd stood up to Monokuma. Though it seemed she was having similar thoughts about him.

"That was truly a brave thing you did just did. To defend Chihiro, without any hesitation despite the risk of death. It was very inspiring Hajime. Your actions were very admirable...it makes me happy to be with someone like you." she said as she peeked up from her hood, as a faint dust of pink stained her cheeks.

The Ultimate Gamer's words caught the young spiky haired boy off guard. She was well spoken when she did decide to speak.

"T-Thank you, but I feel like I don't deserve such words. If you knew how scared I was when I standing there looking at Monokuma, you'd probably want to take back what you just said." Hajime confessed a bit bitterly.

The boy bowed his head slightly. The fear and anxiety he'd felt during the confrontation made him feel ashamed. He was suppose to be fearless while defending one of his friends. However he was pulled away from his thoughts, he heard an amused laugh coming from the gamer.

"You know, it's okay to be afraid of something like that." She said with a sincere smile that seemed to lift his spirits marginally. "It's only natural after all to be afraid sometimes. You may not realize it, but I was terrifed too."

"You were?" Hajime asked in shock.

The pink haired gamer nodded in response before continuing on.

"Yes, I was very scared, but I saw you willing to stand up to Monokuma, and I knew I couldn't just do nothing. So I acted like the rest of you to defend Chihiro. I think that maybe to have a little fear is alright... it keeps us from making mistakes. We know what's at stake. So long as fear doesn't consume us and doesn't control us. That's what really matters. That's what bravery is right? feeling fear, but acting in spite of it?" she smiled lightly up at the boy.

Hajime found himself starring in wonder at the girl. 'I never knew Chiaki cared so much...that she was so thoughtful. She really is special, she possesses a kind of strength that even I don't yet.'

"Thank you Chiaki and you're right. I will do what ever I have to do to protect us, while we are still imprisoned." Hinata said with a determined expression on his face.

"I promise you I won't let anything stop me from standing up for all of you. Not until we leave this damn place together." He offered her a sincere smile.

As he finished his little speech, Chiaki gave him the most infectious smile, which caused him blush lightly.

"Well said Hajime. Maybe we should get back to our rooms though too? Before Monokuma comes back with some new demented rule?" she suggested, as she shoved her hands into her hoodie.

Hajime smiled fondly for a moment. "Yeah...Chiaki I couldn't agree more. Besides Mahiru will never forgive me if I'm late for our meeting in the mo-" he was cut short as the sound of girl's scream reverberated from down the hallway.

The boy felt his blood run cold as he reached out and grabbed at Chiaki's hand, before taking off in a dead run out into the hallway.

"Ahem. This is a school announcement! I know you all are looking forward to some quality beauty sleep, but murder waits for no one. Someone's already pushing up daisies. Seriously you bunch don't waste time. Already icing one of your classmates, before the first day is even done? Teenagers are so violent these days." Monokuma's voice echoed throughout the hall, as the pair raced towards the source of the scream...