Legend:
Narration/Description
Italicized - Umeko's thoughts
[CG] Description [CG]
[CG] End [CG]
[[flashback]]
FTEs: Mordecai / Miyumi
Miyumi took off running for the Bakery, and those of us that were there peeled after her, hot on her heels.
No...please, may nothing bad have happened…
We came to a stop outside and she burst through the door.
Miyumi: [distressed] Quick! Th-This way! [as Ms. Shortcake] Hurry up!
We pushed and shoved our way inside, and I stopped short upon seeing the place.
[CG] The Bakery In Ruins [CG]
The Bakery, like the Supermarket, looked like it had been wrecked. Glass shelves and counters had been broken and smashed into, and various platters and trays of confectionery and cakes were sprawled on the floor in a sugary, sticky mess.
Wakako: Eww!
She had stepped in a large puddle of maple syrup, and raised her foot with disdain, as the sticky liquid dribbled off the sole of her shoe.
Miyumi: In here!
She opened the door to the kitchen, and we saw Fukumi inside, clutching her arm and wincing.
[CG] End [CG]
Fukumi: [distressed] Ngh…
Mordecai: [shocked] Fukumi! Are you alright?
Azuma: [angry] What's happened?
Fukumi: [distressed] It...it was him.
We all knew instantly, what she was referring to.
Hanako: [distressed] Damn it...I don't believe it...it's happened again. A fourth incident…
Miyumi: [distressed] And it's gotten worse! This time, the Beast really did attack!
Azuma: [thoughtful] He's escalating…
Fukumi shakily got to her feet, as Azuma and Mordecai rushed to help her up. She was pale but grinned in spite of the obvious pain she was in. Blood was running down the length of her left arm, and leaking out between her fingers.
Fukumi: [distressed] That bastard...got a good hit in on me! I can't believe I let him get away!
Hanako: We need the medkit again. Taro, Ichiro, can you go and get it?
Ichiro: [uncomfortable] Why me…?
Hanako: [angry] Just go! And if you come across Eizo on the way, ask him to get over here!
Taro: [distressed] R-Right away!
He ran out of the Bakery for the Store, and Ichiro reluctantly jogged after him.
Azuma and Mordecai helped Fukumi sit down in an empty chair they'd pulled up, and Azuma held out his hand to check Fukumi's wound.
Azuma: I'll be gentle. Don't worry.
Fukumi: Oh, I'm not worried. I've faced worse injuries.
Azuma: [happy] I don't doubt that.
He looked at the wound she'd sustained. Wakako gulped audibly at the sight of it.
Wakako: [distressed] Th-That looks harsh…
Fukumi's forearm had been slashed straight-down, in a sharp, red line. Drops of blood ran down her skin and pooled in a puddle by her shoes.
Is...that meant to be a claw mark? It...looks a little strange...what do the Beast's claws look like?
Hanako: Tell us everything that happened, every last detail.
Fukumi: [sad] Miyumi and I...we were baking in the kitchen, when we heard a noise from outside. We thought someone had come into the Bakery, but then, all the lights in the kitchen went out. There were no windows in here, so we couldn't see anything. We heard the sound of someone or something moving about in the dark and...Miyumi freaked out. She said she saw something, and that was when I saw it too. A pair of...glowing...yellow eyes…
The door to the bakery swung open again, and this time, Eizo had arrived, with Taro and Ichiro in tow.
Eizo: [distressed] I heard about what happened! Who got hurt?
He saw Fukumi sitting in the chair, clutching her bloodstained arm.
Eizo: [worried] No…
Hanako: [annoyed] This is the fourth Beast sighting in three days...and our fifth eyewitness.
People were whispering among themselves.
Kaori: [sad] So...it's really real? I don't get it…
Taro: [nervous] I t-t-told you guys…!
Kaori: [sad] I just don't understand...this isn't right…
Eizo knelt by Fukumi's side as Azuma took a bandage from the medkit Taro handed to him, and got to work fixing Fukumi up.
Eizo: [distressed] So what happened?
Fukumi: It was dark and I didn't see a whole lot. I only caught a glimpse of those eyes, and Miyumi shrieked.
Miyumi: [distressed] I was scared, alright?
Yoshihiki: [laughing] Hehe...scaredy-pants.
Fukumi: [angry] When I knew the Beast was here, I was prepared to fight! I grabbed the wooden spoon I'd been using to mix our batter, and I was gonna beat that so-called Beast over the head with it! But the next thing I knew, I felt a gash in my arm and pain shot through me. I yelled for Miyumi to get help and I heard the Beast flee.
Samira: [angry] It fled? What a coward.
Azuma: [confused] Why did the Beast run?
Ichiro: [uncomfortable] It's a warning.
Umeko: Huh?
Ichiro: [annoyed] First the pig in the market...now this...the Beast hasn't killed anyone yet. It's only attacked and scared us...it wants us to be frightened. That's Monokuma's way of toying with us. The Beast is going to keep this up until he eventually decides to attack someone for real and leave them for dead…
Eizo: [angry] ...or when one of us resorts to murder to stop this.
Shizuko: [annoyed] Oh, so now you believe in the Beast?
Ichiro: [annoyed] …
Kaori: [angry] I don't!
Shizuko: [shocked] Huh?
Kaori: [angry] This doesn't feel normal! Something's clearly not right here!
Shizuko: [angry] What more proof do you need? That's four incidents we've had so far! And look at Fukumi! First Taro, now her - who's gonna be injured or attacked next?
Azuma finished bandaging Fukumi's arm and patted it gently.
Azuma: Better?
Fukumi: [happy] Much more! Thanks a lot, Azuma! What would we do without you?
Wakako: [accusatory] H-Hey! No need to lay it on that thick…
Ichiro: [snide] Well, Captain Rulebook? What's your plan now?
Eizo: [annoyed] Damn it…
Hanako: We need a proper plan to stop this Beast once and for all. We can't have it continuing to wreak havoc among us like this. Eizo, what are you thinking?
Eizo: I'm thinking...we really need those bear traps.
Kaori: [angry] N-No! I won't let you!
She threw her arms around Buddy, who yelped.
Kaori: [angry] It's too dangerous for Buddy!
Eizo: [distressed] At this rate, if we don't catch the Beast soon, it's going to kill one of us! We have to stop that from happening!
Kaori: [angry] There has to be another way!
Eizo: [distressed] Like what?
Kaori stood up, and balled her hands into fists.
Kaori: [accusatory] I'll catch the Beast myself!
Wakako: [shocked] W-What…?
Shizuko: [uncomfortable] Don't be absurd. How would you catch the Beast by yourself?
Wakako: [scared] I mean...it's already come after two of us!
Fukumi: [shocked] Yeah! If I couldn't handle it, what makes you think you can?
Kaori: [angry] I don't believe in any of this! Such a Beast can't possibly exist. M-Maybe...Monokuma's fooling us!
Shizuko: [annoyed] Does Fukumi's wound look like it's fake to you?
Kaori: [angry] ...I don't know. But I know what I believe in. And I know I won't let you put Buddy at risk!
Just like that, Kaori stormed off. I was surprised. Kaori was one of the most reserved members of the group, and she very rarely had outbursts like this. She must...really feel strongly about this.
I felt a twinge of sadness. All the joy of playing frisbee, trying to get Kaori to come out of her shell, trying to get the others to bond...it had dissipated into the air, replaced by more anger, tension and fear. Azuma's work had been for nothing.
Azuma: [worried] Fukumi, come. We should get you back to your room to rest. Your arm...you shouldn't move it too much.
Fukumi: [shocked] Really, it's fine! I've been through worse!
Azuma: It doesn't make this any more trivial.
Miyumi: [scared] Y-Yeah...I'll help you!
The three of them headed for Fukumi's home. The rest of us stood around, waiting for Eizo's guidance.
Shizuko: [annoyed] So what now?
Wakako: [nervous] Should...should we be armed?
Samira: There are weapons available in the General Store.
Eizo: [distressed] I don't know...that seems a little too dangerous…
Ichiro: [annoyed] Aren't our lives already in danger at this point? It's probably for the best that we're protected. What, you think one of us is going to try and use those weapons against another member of the group?
Yoshihiki: [playful] That's clearly what he's thinking. Try as he might, he can't not be suspicious of us!
Eizo: [distressed] Ngh...I didn't say that.
Yoshihiki: [laughing] But you thought it!
Eizo: [distressed] ...Very well. Everyone should at least have a knife...to protect themselves in case of an emergency.
Hanako: [distressed] Are you sure about this?
Eizo: [worried] ...I'm running out of options here. It's all I've got left. If we can't put bear traps around the village for Buddy's safety...then that's the next best idea.
Yoshihiki: [playful] What're you saying, Hanako? You don't trust us? After we agreed to not let another incident like with Nagatomo and Kenji happen again?
Hanako: [annoyed] …
Eizo: [accusatory] I'm going to trust in all of you...that those knives will only be used on the off-chance that you encounter the Beast, and purely for self-defense! We've had a total of four such incidents now, and five people have come across the creature. We can't let it happen again, and no one should be caught vulnerable and unaware if it happens to them. These weapons are meant to protect us in that scenario...so don't make me regret this.
Hanako: ...To be safe...I will be taking inventory of our supplies in the Store. Should anyone take anything they're not supposed to…[annoyed] They'll be sorry.
Yoshihiki: [playful] Ooh, so threatening! I'm practically quivering…
Hanako: Let's clear out of here.
Mordecai: What will become of the bakery?
Eizo: [distressed] I guess I'll have to dispatch another team to come and clean this up...
Mordecai: I can volunteer for that again.
Eizo: Really? I'll feel bad, making you do it twice in a row…
Mordecai: [excited] Never fear! This bakery holds a special place in my heart! To clean and restore it to its former glory bears no concern for me!
We all filed out of the bakery and Hanako led the way to the General Store.
I fell into step behind Eizo, and frowned.
Umeko: Hey, Eizo...are you alright?
Eizo: Hm? Of course I am. Why do you ask?
Umeko: Are...you bleeding?
Eizo: [shocked] Huh?
I pointed at the hem of his right sleeve. It was stained a murky purplish color. He held it up to his nose and sniffed.
Eizo: [confused] Hm...don't worry, it's not blood.
To my surprise, he stuck out his tongue and licked it.
Eizo: Heh...tastes like strawberry. I think it's just jam.
Umeko: Why do you…?
Eizo: I must've stained my suit when I came into the Bakery. Don't pay it any mind.
He turned and walked further away from me, clearly determined to avoid my line of questioning. His answer hadn't exactly reassured me…
[Move to: General Store]
Hanako handed out a knife to everyone that arrived.
Hanako: [annoyed] Make this clear...ONLY for emergencies. Understood?
Yoshihiki: [playful] We're already living in one big emergency! I think that kind of goes out the window-
Hanako: [annoyed] ONLY for emergencies.
She shoved his knife into his outstretched hands.
Hanako: [annoyed] It's risky enough giving you a knife.
Yoshihiki: [playful] Sounds like you don't trust me.
Hanako: [annoyed] I'd be a fool to.
Shizuko snorted with disdain as she twirled her own knife experimentally. Remembering her lack of experience in the kitchen, I was suddenly alarmed.
Umeko: Um...you do know to be careful with that, right, Shizuko?
Shizuko: [annoyed] Please, Umeko. I've handled plenty of fake knives in acting.
There's a big difference between a real knife and a fake knife, Shizuko!
Taro: [distressed] It's so sh-sharp! Wh-What if I cut myself b-by accident?
Eizo: You'll be fine.
Eizo frowned, inspecting the knife he himself had just been given, the hilt of which was considerably more scratched up than the others.
Eizo: [disappointed] Just my luck, I suppose…
Hanako: Would you like to trade?
Eizo: No, it's fine, I guess...it's not a big deal.
As I took my own knife from Hanako, I looked up at the wall and hesitated.
Umeko: Hey um...wasn't there usually something on that plaque?
Hanako looked up at it and raised an eyebrow.
Hanako: Like what?
Umeko: I...could've sworn there used to be a prop shotgun up on the wall there.
Yoshihiki: [playful] You sure you're not just misremembering?
Hanako: [annoyed] Did you take it for a dumb prank?
Yoshihiki: Hey, I didn't have anything to do with this for once! At any rate, it's a prop, so who cares? There are no real bullets here. What's anyone gonna use a thing like that for, a paperweight?
Hanako: [annoyed] I swear...if I find out you've taken it…
Yoshihiki: [playful] Hey, Nagatomo was the one always swiping things, not me! I just prank people!
I tucked the knife I'd been given away into my back pocket, making sure it was safely sheathed in its scabbard first.
I didn't think anyone else was still in the mood for frisbee. Wakako had rushed off to find Azuma, and Samira was returning to her mural. Ichiro had made his way home as soon as we were dismissed. Mordecai was assembling his team to help clean up the bakery, and with so few volunteers, Eizo and Hanako had no choice but to lead by example and join him.
Mordecai: [excited] Umeko! Will you assist us?
Umeko: Sure. Why not?
So I spent the rest of the day, helping to clean up the bakery with Mordecai, Eizo and Hanako. I decided to take the opportunity to investigate the scene while I was at it.
Umeko: So how did the Beast get in?
The four of us stood inside the Bakery, looking around.
Umeko: Fukumi said she and Miyumi were inside the kitchen when the lights went out. There's...only one door in and out of this place so...
Eizo stepped over to the light switch, over by the door.
Eizo: This is how the lights are turned on or off.
To show us, he flicked the switch, plunging the place into darkness. Inside the kitchen, the lights went out too.
Umeko: Wait...is that the only way to turn the lights off?
Eizo: As far as I know. Why?
Umeko: You...don't mean to say the Beast...turned them off?
I indicated how high up the light switch was from the floor.
Umeko: It would need to be our height to flick the switch, and even then, how would it know to do so? Unless it turned the lights off another way…
Eizo: Hey, you tell me. You're the only one out of us four who's properly seen the thing.
Mordecai: [excited] Aha! I've found the solution!
Eizo: What?
Mordecai: [excited] The Beast cast a Blanket of Darkness over the Bakery! It is a very powerful Illusion spell, known only to those most skilled in the art of necromancy! Once again, we have been fooled by a master of the arcane arts!
Hanako: [thoughtful] This was no magic act. But Umeko definitely brings up a good point. There has been something fishy about all this from the start…
Eizo: I mean...the Beast has demonstrated the capability to speak...would it be that much of a stretch to suggest it turned the lights off on its own too?
Hanako: Then that begs the question: why?
Eizo: [confused] Huh?
Hanako: Why turn off the lights in the first place? Is it that afraid of being seen? That's the one thing I don't get about the Beast and his appearances…
Umeko: What is it?
Hanako: [thoughtful] …
Umeko: Hanako?
Hanako: Sorry. I can't say right now.
She's clearly onto something here...but she doesn't want to tell us.
Hanako: It's fine. Let's just not disclose any of this to the others for now. There's no need to spread too much paranoia at the moment.
Eizo: Can we trust you two to keep mum?
Umeko: I'm not fond of keeping secrets from the group, but...if it's for our good, then by all means…
Mordecai: [excited] You need not worry! I am excellent at keeping secrets!
Eizo: [worried] For some reason, I'm not totally convinced of that.
Hanako: Come on, let's finish up here and go before dinnertime.
I helped Mordecai clean up the kitchen. It was already a mess, but whether that was because of Fukumi or the Beast, I had no idea.
Mordecai: Mmm...I don't know what Miyumi was working on before the accident, but it tastes good! I'm a little disappointed she's not going to finish it!
He showed me a bowl of cake batter, and dipped his finger in it.
Mordecai: [happy] Taste it!
There's no harm in that...right?
This could be a cake Fukumi made…in which case, I'll be lucky to not die from poisoning as soon as I stick it in my mouth…
I dipped a hesitant finger inside the gooey batter, and licked it.
...Hm.
Mordecai: [excited] Good, right?
...Strawberry?
Mordecai: [excited] Miyumi must have been making another one of her shortcakes! That girl is weird, but she is an excellent baker!
Pot. Kettle. Black. The irony of Mordecai calling someone else 'weird' is not lost on me…
After we were done and had cleaned the Bakery up to the best of our ability, we parted ways. Dinnertime was undoubtedly around the corner, though how willing Kaori would be to cook for the group after Eizo kept threatening to put Buddy at risk...was up in the air.
I decided to head to Fukumi's house to check on her. I found her and a group of others playing cards.
Fukumi: [excited] After Azuma and Miyumi brought me back, I proposed we played a game of cards! I mean, can you believe how good this girl is at Texas Hold' Em?
She pointed at Miyumi, who smiled cheekily.
Miyumi: [playful] I guess I've just got beginner's luck.
Fukumi: [annoyed] Ugh, I just know it's got something to do with those dolls! They're the ones drawing the cards, and they're always whispering advice to her!
Fukumi...knows they're only dolls, right?
Fukumi: [excited] And when Taro and Mordecai came along, I just had to invite them too!
Mordecai: [excited] Mordecai never denies a challenge! I have yet to settle scores with you on the snowy battlefield, Fukumi. Instead, we shall fight to see who emerges victorious on the field of gambling and deception!
Fukumi: [excited] You're so on! This guy is the best competitor!
Nice to see her and Mordecai are getting along, at least.
The six of us spent way longer than we should've playing various card games in Fukumi's cottage, up til the point when Eizo had to knock on our door to remind us to come out for dinner. Kaori had decided to cook after all, but she was clearly still upset with Eizo and spent most of her time petting Buddy, refusing to let him out of her sight, until Eizo went up to her and promised he would not set bear traps around the village, given that it bothered her so much.
Eizo: I won't do it if you're really so against it. Alright?
Kaori: [sad] I'm sorry. I'm not trying to be difficult.
Eizo: I never said you were.
Kaori: I'm only looking out for Buddy.
Eizo: I understand that.
He turned to the rest of us.
Eizo: I have no announcements for today, everyone! Just...go to bed, and lock your doors...and I mean it, you two!
Taro: [embarrassed] Y-Y-Yes, sir!
Eizo: [annoyed] I said, don't call me 'sir'!
Taro: [distressed] S-S-S-Sorry, sir!
Eizo: [disappointed] Oh, forget it.
Fukumi: [disappointed] Aw, can't we play one more round of cards at my place?
Eizo: [distressed] No! I'm not risking people getting caught out of bed after hours!
Fukumi: [disappointed] Not even for a mass sleepover?
Eizo: [distressed] No! Your rooms aren't big enough! Rules are rules!
Fukumi: [disappointed] Jeez…
When I went to bed that night, I hoped that we wouldn't have a repeat of the night before, and that when I woke up tomorrow, we wouldn't have had another incident with the Beast.
Can't we just have a day of peace? This place could've been a winter wonderland if not for this constant fear of the unknown…
No one's been too severely injured yet, with the exception of Fukumi's mild gash. I hope it stays that way…
…
*ding dong bing bong*
Monokuma: Good morning, everyone! It is now 7a.m. and nighttime is officially over! Time for another b-e-a-utiful day!
Another day down…
[Move to: Amphitheater]
When I arrived at the Amphitheater, I found Ichiro having an argument with Eizo.
Ichiro: [distressed] No one told me it was my turn to cook! I don't cook!
Eizo: [distressed] It doesn't matter. That's still your duty today!
Ichiro: [annoyed] I can't! You can't make me do it either!
Eizo: [distressed] Look, you have to be fair here, Ichiro. Everyone else before you did their duty without complaint...mostly. And I bet a bunch of them didn't have a lot of experience cooking either, but they still had to do it, and so do you.
Ichiro: [annoyed] Why can't you just make Azuma cook all the meals? He's easily the best chef.
Eizo: It's fair for us to split the job up so Azuma isn't cooking all the time. And now it's your turn.
Ichiro: [annoyed] This is stupid.
Eizo: [annoyed] Listen, I've got a lot more on my plate to deal with, with the Beast roaming about. This is the least of my problems. Can't you make this easy for me?
Ichiro: [annoyed] If it's the least of your problems, can't you just let it go and make someone else do it?
Eizo: [distressed] That wouldn't be fair! Everyone has an allocated duty for a reason. It's the rules!
Ichiro: [annoyed] Ugh, you and your dumb rules! What, are you going to force me to do it?
Eizo: [accusatory] You're being unreasonable!
Ichiro: [accusatory] And you're acting like a tyrant again!
Azuma: [annoyed] Guys, please!
Azuma stepped in quickly and broke the two up. Eizo was staggering away from Ichiro, breathing heavily. Ichiro scowled, and curled his arms around Charlie.
Azuma: [annoyed] It doesn't do anyone good to be fighting this early in the morning. ...How about I give you a hand, Ichiro? Does that seem fair?
Ichiro: [uncomfortable] …
Azuma: Well?
Ichiro: [annoyed] I don't need your help. I just…[embarrassed] I know I'm going to mess it up, cooking…
Fukumi: [snide] Isn't that rich? Weren't you also the one insulting me for being an awful chef?
Ichiro: [angry] That's different! You were an abysmal excuse of one! I…[uncomfortable] I don't want to screw it up too.
Azuma: Don't put yourself down before you've even given it a try.
Taro: [happy] Y-Y-Yeah! I think you'll b-b-be just f-f-fine, Ichiro. It's the th-thought that c-c-counts, right?
Ichiro: [embarrassed] Mmf...
Azuma: [playful] Besides...no matter how bad you are, you can't be as bad as Fukumi.
Fukumi: [annoyed] Hey! At least I actually do what I'm told to do instead of being difficult on purpose!
Ichiro: [annoyed] Grr…! I'll do it, just to show you I can do it better than you!
Fukumi: [happy] I'd love to see it, Ichiro.
Ichiro harrumphed and set Charlie down on the bench nearby, beside Taro.
Ichiro: [annoyed] Don't let Yoshihiki take that.
Taro: [shocked] S-Sure…
Azuma: There we go. Crisis averted!
Umeko: Good job.
He leaned in and spoke to me in a whisper.
Azuma: [worried] I hate seeing the group splintering like this. It's so unnecessary…
Umeko: People are just under a lot of stress because of the Beast and Monokuma...it just makes them want to lash out more.
Azuma: [worried] I know, but…
He paused, and stared at something in front of him.
Azuma: [confused] Eizo?
Eizo hadn't spoken since Azuma had stepped in between him and Ichiro's spat. He had his back turned to the group, and seemed to be panting, his back shuddering a little.
Umeko: Eizo? Are you alright?
Ichiro: [annoyed] What, did I piss you off that much?
Eizo: [confused] Eh?
Eizo spun around, startling us.
Eizo: [angry] You…[accusatory] You give me attitude again, and you'll regret it!
Ichiro: [annoyed] Psh. Whatever...I'm doing the stupid duty now, aren't I? You happy?
Eizo: [playful] Heh...very! Careful you don't set yourself on fire there, Cactus Boy!
Ichiro: [angry] Tch…! What'd you call me?
Azuma: [shocked] Hey, whoa, whoa, whoa! I thought we'd settled this! Break it up, guys!
Ichiro: [accusatory] He's the one starting it this time!
Hanako stormed over.
Hanako: [annoyed] What's the matter with you?
Eizo: [confused] Hm? [playful] Nothing's the matter. I'm feeling just fine! You people worry too much, you know that?
Ichiro: [annoyed] You're joking. Captain Rulebook here thinks that we worry too much? You have a fit over us not following the rules every two seconds!
Eizo: [accusatory] And you're the one suffering an anxiety attack every four seconds!
Ichiro: [annoyed] Wha...you son-of-a-
Hanako: [annoyed] Okay, enough! Seriously! You boys are all just a bunch of macho idiots, the whole lot of you!
Azuma: [disappointed] ...Ahem.
Hanako: [thoughtful] ...Okay, fine, you're not so bad, Azuma.
Taro: [sad] M-M-Macho idiot? I'm not like th-that, am I?
Hanako: You're not off the hook only because you've broken the rules twice, sneaking around with Miyumi.
Taro: [distressed] Oh, c-c-come on! Th-That doesn't count!
Hanako: And Eizo, I expect better of you. I'm starting to think the stress of being the leader is getting to you…
Eizo: [snide] Nonsense! I'm the SHSL Commander for a reason! It'd be a pretty shoddy title if I couldn't handle a group like this!
Hanako: [worried] Maybe you should take a break...you look like you've had trouble sleeping.
Eizo: [playful] Maybe I just can't sleep at night cos I'm thinking about you.
Hanako: [angry] Ngh…!
Azuma: [shocked] …E-Eizo!
Hanako: [distressed] Wh...what are…[uncomfortable] I don't...why are you…[embarrassed] This...is a public place...you can't just-
Umeko: Eizo...where did that come from?
Eizo turned to me, and raised an eyebrow.
Eizo: [playful] I could ask you the same question! Who are you again?
Umeko: H-Huh?
Ichiro: [distressed] What the fuck? Are you drunk? That's Umeko!
Eizo: [laughing] Ah, yes! But of course it is! Sorry...I'm not used to you without your coat on.
Something's not right here...
Umeko: ...You really do need sleep.
Eizo: [playful] But hey! Maybe you're right! I really am too tired! It's probably because of all the idiots yapping in my ear all the time! So excuse me, I'm going to take a nice, long nap!
Eizo sauntered off, leaving the bunch of us standing around in shock.
Wakako: [confused] What was that about?
Ichiro did his best to make us breakfast, refusing to lose to Fukumi - more out of pride than anything - and his efforts produced a passable meal, which Azuma praised just to be nice to him, and though Ichiro tried to hide it, we could all tell he was pleased.
Ichiro: [annoyed] You don't have to patronize me. I know it wasn't great.
Azuma: It doesn't have to be. No one was expecting a five-star meal. It's fine on its own.
Wakako: Yeah, dude...you give yourself way too hard a time. [playful] After all, nothing can be as bad as what Fukumi comes up with.
Fukumi: [sad] Must you all mock my skills in the kitchen with such gusto?
Ichiro: [embarrassed] Hmph. Well...whatever. Who cares?
Clearly, you do.
It looks like I have some free time today. What should I do?
[[FREE TIME]]
[Talk to: Mordecai]
Mordecai: Ah, Umeko! I am truly honored to welcome the presence of another great warrior such as myself! For what purpose have you sought me out today? Do you wish to challenge me in the game of the hunt? You are either very brave or very foolish, for I, Mordecai Fisher, the SHSL Marksman, shall not show you any mercy! Prepare to be vanquished by my skills!
I decided to spend some time with Mordecai. We returned to the inn, and he had fun showing me how good he was at darts again.
Looks like Mordecai and I grew a little closer today.
Umeko: W-Wow. That's the eighteenth straight time in a row you hit the bulls-eye with both eyes closed and one hand behind your back!
Mordecai: [snide] Thank you! Of course, this is child's play. Now, if I had my crossbow, then you would really see the true power of the SHSL Marksman!
That'll be a sight to see.
Mordecai: [thoughtful] Umeko, may I confide in you about something?
Umeko: Go ahead.
Knowing Mordecai, the chances of this being a loaded question or a tall tale are pretty high.
Mordecai: I hail from a long line of valiant heroes, stalwart knights and courageous warriors.
Yep.
Mordecai: That strength I see in my bloodline...I sense it likewise flowing through your veins!
Umeko: Um...what?
Mordecai: [excited] You carry yourself with the pride of a fighter! You possess the inner drive and tenacity of those to whom I have associated mightiness with!
Umeko: ...Thanks?
Mordecai: Apologies. I understand you are baffled, and rightfully so. But I merely had to admit that I see the potential in you to become a real warrior! And I would like to help you achieve that!
I have a hard time understanding most of what Mordecai says half the time, but if I'm not wrong, I...think he's trying to…
1. Brag about himself
2. Hit on me
3. Praise my fitness
…
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Answer: 3. Praise my fitness
Umeko: You're...giving me a compliment.
Mordecai: [embarrassed] Of...of course! [excited] Your physique has the potential to be that of a warrior! And I respect that!
Umeko: Ah...thanks. I...well, I can't exactly say it's 'cause I work out because...I don't remember.
Mordecai: Nevertheless, I see a long way to go for you to reach your potential, but I have hope that you can reach that goal! [happy] How would you like me to train you?
Umeko: You...want to be my coach?
Mordecai: [snide] Physical fitness and spiritual training should be part and parcel of everyone's life! I merely wish to help you unlock your true potential, Umeko! That is what friends do for each other, no?
Umeko: Well...I suppose you would be the most dope fitness trainer ever.
Mordecai: [thoughtful] My own training took me many years. I spent years learning to fight from my master. He taught me all the basics of self-defense, and trained me in all kinds of martial arts too. Without him, I would not be half the warrior I am today. [excited] You must let me teach you some of my fighting tactics someday!
Umeko: Oh, I dunno...I'm not really the violent sort...
Mordecai: [shocked] Believe it or not, becoming a true warrior is not all about fighting, though. For instance, I spent countless hours meditating with my master's guidance. Archery isn't all about a keen eye, you know. It's also about patience and being at peace with oneself. [snide] How did you think I earned my title as the SHSL Marksman? It didn't happen overnight.
It's funny to hear Mordecai, of all people, talk about patience, considering how impulsive he can be at times.
Mordecai: My master passed his skill of archery down to me. It took many many many failed attempts to get to his level. But it was all worth it in the end. [snide] Now, with my trusty crossbow, I could nail a mark regardless of any distractions! The world could be exploding all around me and it would not deter me from hitting my target. [happy] That is why I would like to coach you, personally. My master helped me unlock my true skill and potential as a marksman; I only wish to help you do the same wherever I can. Such an achievement will bring fulfillment to your life, I assure you.
Umeko: Heh...maybe someday, Mordecai. Maybe someday…
Mordecai may talk nonsense most of the time...but that was an almost legitimate conversation we just had. I can tell he's really passionate over all this kind of stuff about body and soul...maybe I should get him into yoga.
[Mordecai's Report Card has been updated based on your experience with him.]
I still have some free time left. What should I do?
[[FREE TIME]]
[Talk to: Miyumi]
Miyumi: [happy] Hi, Umeko! [as Ms. Shortcake] Hi! [as Nico] Hey! [as Dr. Creeper] What's up?
I decided to spend some time with Miyumi and all of her dolls. Looks like Miyumi (and her dolls) and I grew a little closer today.
Umeko: You know, Miyumi, I've been curious…
Miyumi: [confused] What about?
Umeko: Your dolls...how did you first realize you had a talent for ventriloquism?
Miyumi: [happy] Oh, heehee! It's a funny story, actually. My dad was a dollmaker. He wasn't a fan of dolls made in factories, mass-produced, that kind of thing. He was old-fashioned and liked to stitch them up together by hand. And so, he would make dolls for me, and repair them whenever their outfits got frayed or their stuffing fell out!
Umeko: Did he get you into ventriloquism?
Miyumi: No, but he certainly set me on the path. He gave me Ms. Shortcake first, and I used to adore her. [excited] I played with her all the time as a kid! And she and I would have tons of tea parties together, and we would talk all day long, and she was my bestest friend and companion in the whole wide world!
I'm trying to follow along but I don't know how to feel about this…
I suppose it's cute that she grew so attached to Ms. Shortcake. She must feel less like a doll and more like a close confidant, to Miyumi.
Miyumi: [happy] I would give Ms. Shortcake her own unique voice, and we would have long conversations together about all kinds of things! [shocked] But it really freaked my parents out.
Umeko: Huh?
Miyumi: [thoughtful] Well, I was just a kid, remember? They heard me talking to Ms. Shortcake in my room one time and barged in. They were terrified when they didn't see anyone else in the room with me, and couldn't figure out where Ms. Shortcake's voice had come from. They didn't believe me at first when I told them I'd been talking with my dolls.
Umeko: Let me guess. They thought you were talking with…
1. A stranger
2. Imaginary friends
3. Ghosts
…
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Answer: 3. Ghosts
Miyumi: [shocked] Yeah! Can you believe it? My parents thought I'd been talking with spirits! [happy] But thank goodness I ended up the SHSL Ventriloquist instead of the SHSL Medium or something...I told them I'd given my doll her 'voice' and showed them what I could do without seeming to open my mouth...it really impressed them!
Umeko: And that's how your talents in ventriloquism started?
Miyumi: Yeah! I showed it off all the time at talent shows or at 'show-and-tell' presentations in class. [disappointed] It kinda freaked my schoolmates out though...people used to tease me for being a 'witch'...
Umeko: What? That's horrible!
Miyumi: [sad] Yeah...well, it was a long time ago.
Umeko: How did they treat you?
Miyumi: [sad] I'd...rather not talk about it, too much.
Umeko: Oh, okay...that's fine!
Miyumi: [happy] Anyway, I've gotta go. It's almost time for me and Ms. Shortcake's four o' clock tea party! [as Ms. Shortcake] Ta-ta!
She skipped off, humming to herself, and I was left to contemplate whether she was incredibly imaginative or just plain insane.
[Miyumi's Report Card has been updated based on your experience with her.]
With Miyumi and her dolls gone, I decided I'd better head back home.
The day had passed by in peace, which I was thankful for. There hadn't been another Beast incident, and I hoped I wasn't being naive in counting on it to stay that way.
Arriving at dinner, I saw - unsurprisingly - that Ichiro was once again getting into another argument.
Ichiro: [angry] Just leave me alone!
Yoshihiki: [laughing] Come on, mate! You don't have to be so salty about it!
Ichiro: [angry] ...I hate you.
Yoshihiki: [shocked] You don't mean that!
Ichiro: [uncomfortable] This is precisely why I wanted to be in the bathhouse on my own. I knew it was only a matter of time until you tried something dastardly!
Yoshihiki: [playful] 'Dastardly'? Who uses a word like that?
Ichiro: [annoyed] You're such a pain. [distressed] I have severe anxiety for a reason! I don't need you making it worse!
Azuma: [disappointed] Okay...what's wrong now?
Yoshihiki: [playful] Ichiro's still upset about me jostling him in the bath.
Ichiro: [uncomfortable] Tch...you were harrassing me!
Yoshihiki: [laughing] You're way too wound-up, bro! You've got to loosen up! Stop worrying about what others will think about you!
Ichiro: [accusatory] Yeah, because I'm likely to take life advice from you, of all people.
Azuma: Yoshihiki-
Yoshihiki: [playful] Yeah, yeah, Azuma, I know. 'Leave him alone', blah blah blah...I got it, Mr. Goody-Two-Shoes...I'm going.
He laughed and left Ichiro alone.
Umeko: What...did he do to you in the bathhouse?
Ichiro: [uncomfortable] I'd rather not discuss it…
Azuma shook his head at me, a wry smile playing on his lips, and I figured he was probably right to not want to head into that minefield.
Eizo: [distressed] Ngh…
Eizo had arrived, looking haggard.
Azuma: [worried] You feeling any better?
Eizo: [confused] Huh? I guess…
Ichiro: [annoyed] Oh, look who it is. You gonna insult me some more, or what?
Eizo: [confused] Huh?
Ichiro: [annoyed] Psh. I didn't think so…
Eizo: [worried] When did I insult you…?
Ichiro: [accusatory] What do you mean, 'when'...?
Azuma shot him down with a quiet glare and Ichiro grumbled, returning to his cooking, as he sizzled his patties on the grill with more force than he needed to.
Eizo: [worried] If I said anything that upset you...I'm sorry?
Ichiro: [annoyed] That didn't sound particularly apologetic.
Eizo: [worried] I've just been under the weather, as of late. This Beast situation hasn't been helping.
He shuddered, drawing his suit jacket closer around him, his teeth chattering.
Eizo: [worried] I really can't take any more surprises...please tell me there weren't any accidents again today.
Azuma: Nope. Today was Beast-free.
Eizo: Thank goodness for that…
Umeko: Eizo...what was up with you this morning?
Eizo: [confused] Hm?
Umeko: You were behaving really oddly…
Eizo: [worried] Like I said...I think I'm coming down with something. Maybe I'm a little sick…
He did look like he was in a lot of discomfort.
Umeko: You should probably retire to bed early, if that's the case.
Eizo: [worried] Yeah...maybe that's for the best. It's what Hanako advised me to do too…
Ichiro: [snide] Hmph. I'm surprised she's still talking to you after what you said to her today…
Eizo: [shocked] Huh? What...what did I say?
Ichiro: [annoyed] How do you just forget saying something lewd like that? You were making a pass at her!
Eizo: [shocked] Huh? I...I was?
Ichiro: [annoyed] Dude...you were implying you were thinking about her in your sleep!
Eizo: [distressed] Ahh!
Umeko: Eizo…?
Eizo: [uncomfortable] I...I most certainly do not! Why...why would I…[embarrassed] Oh jeez...I knew she was behaving strangely when I saw her earlier...this is so humiliating…
Azuma: [worried] You should really get some sleep. There hasn't been any incidents today and as long as everyone stays indoors tonight, that should stay the same. It's perfect for you to catch up on sleep and alleviate all that stress you're under. It would do you good.
Eizo: [uncomfortable] Y-You're right...I better go back right now!
He rushed away, making a beeline for his cottage, his whole face flushed beetroot-red.
Azuma: [worried] Poor guy…
What is going on with Eizo lately? He's so much different from the guy I knew him as back at the inn...the situation with the Beast has really been affecting everyone since we've left.
I can't believe I'm thinking this but...I wish we were back in the inn. When we were trapped inside, all we wanted was to get out, but admittedly, life was simpler back then. We didn't have to deal with the threat of being torn apart by an unknown creature, at least…
After dinner was finished, I returned to my cottage and tried to get some sleep.
*ding dong bing bong*
Monokuma: Ahem, ahem. This is an official announcement! It is now 10 p.m. As such, it is officially nighttime! The dining hall is now off limits and will be locked momentarily. Okay then, sweet dreams, everyone! Sleep tight...don't let the bed bugs bite...upupupu...and remember. The Beast is out there, so lock your doors and board up your windows, because he could be coming for you! Upupupu!
Grr…
…
Hm?
There was no howling tonight. Instead, I heard...a strange noise in the distance...really faintly...
It sounds like...barking?
I don't know when, but I eventually fell asleep.
...but not for long.
I should've known it was wishful thinking, to have hoped that we would go one day without an incident involving the Beast. It was naive of me to have even entertained that thought.
Because as soon as I showed even one sign of having hope…
...it would be just that much easier for Monokuma to dash it on the rocks.
'RING RING RING!'
I jerked awake in bed, blinking away my tiredness.
No…
'RING RING RING!'
Not again...it can't be!
But it was.
The bell!
Rushing to get dressed as quickly as I could, I stumbled out of my cottage. Azuma was out alongside me, and cast me a worried glance.
Azuma: [worried] I guess it really was too good to be true…
Umeko: What do you think's happened this time?
Azuma: [worried] ...I don't want to think about it. Come on.
One by one, people began leaving their cottages, heading to where the bell was located.
Shizuko: [bored] Hm? What...it feels so early…
Taro: [nervous] It w-w-wasn't Miyumi and I th-this time!
Hanako: What's happened? Who isn't here?
I looked around, scanning the sea of faces.
Azuma: Let's get to the signpost.
We hurried over, and at once, we saw who was ringing the bell at this late hour.
Kaori: [in tears] …
Umeko: Huh? K-Kaori? What's the matter?
Kaori: [in tears] …
Kaori didn't respond and ignored my question. When we'd all reached her, she simply turned and walked away, leading us to the Amphitheatre.
Once there, our questions were answered.
[CG] Man's Best Friend [CG]
I could only watch, in morbid horror, as Kaori slumped to the floor in defeat, sinking to her knees. She knelt, trembling, before the body of her dog, Buddy, sprawled in front of her, with large, ugly wounds all over him, staining his fur and the snow around them a dull, coppery shade of red.
Surviving Students: 14
Eizo - SHSL Commander
Mordecai - SHSL Marksman
Ichiro - SHSL Botanist
Azuma - SHSL Spy
Taro - SHSL Bookworm
[DEAD] Nagatomo - SHSL Thief [DEAD]
[DEAD] Kenji - SHSL Skateboarder [DEAD]
Yoshihiki - SHSL Prankster
Umeko - SHSL "Amnesiac"
Hanako - SHSL Band Leader
Miyumi - SHSL Ventriloquist
Shizuko - SHSL Actress
Kaori - SHSL Dog Whisperer
Samira - SHSL Street Artist
Fukumi - SHSL Daredevil
Wakako - SHSL Reality TV Star
Notes:
And...cliffhanger! The second (human) death will take place in the next chapter!
Life has gotten a little more hectic for me so unfortunately, I don't have as much time to write as I used to. This means that future chapters may be a bit delayed from now on, sorry...
I'll do my best to keep updating but I hope you understand if chapters take a bit of time! Thanks for understanding and reading!