Eyes locked on the ceiling, though Uchida was still sick, she was unable to find rest, even when she tried to imagine Hiiragi's considerate nagging. A few things were still bothering her about earlier today: Leader, Sonia, those Talent pages mentioning people named Katsuragi. Also, Takanashi had mentioned an Armory, which was a bit worrying. Realizing that there were places she hadn't explored, she got up, taking a breath before making her way outside carefully. Heading downstairs, she was relieved when Hiiragi and Katsuragi were gone, even if the room was empty. Heading outside, the weather was perfect as usual as she made her way to the Wall. She couldn't help but let out a gasp of pleasant surprise when the Watchtower door opened to her pull, as she hadn't been sure that this was where she was supposed to go. The Adjoining Tower was another possibility, but this seemed more logical when it came to an Armory.

Trying to move as quickly as her sickly body would allow, taking the occasional break, her lucky streak continued as she reached the Armory rather quickly. She just didn't realize it at first, instead stopping because someone else was here, greeting, "Oh, Miyamoto-san."

The small Tutor turned, noting, "Oh, Uchida-san." Glancing back at the counter, she added, "I was just checking the paperwork. We can't rely on Ohtori-san all the time..."

Uchida nodded, "So this is the Armory then. I'm not seeing a whole lot of weapons though."

Miyamoto explained, "Monokuma just told me. You have to fill out a form, and anyone can ask to see a copy, so if a weapon gets used, it'll be pretty obvious who got it."

Uchida sighed, "That's a relief..."

"Anyway, what are you doing here?" Miyamoto wondered.

Uchida began, "I haven't explored yet, and when Takanashi mentioned an Armory, well, I got worried..." Thinking again, she asked, "Did Ohtori-san tell you about the meeting?"

Miyamoto frowned, "I know! I'll be there, jeez."

Raising her hands defensively, Uchida laughed, "Okay, sorry, I just wanted to make sure."

Miyamoto thought for a moment, before asking, "Ohtori wanted to wait, but would you tell me what happened, exactly?"

Uchida thought for a moment, before shrugging, "Well, I don't see the harm in it." Leaning against the counter, she took a breath before launching into an explanation, mentioning Leader and the others who seemed to agree with their ideals.

As she finished, Miyamoto began, "So that makes four...any ideas as to who they are?"

Uchida recalled, "Well, it can't be you or Kitano. I guess it couldn't be Rukawa either. I also have a hard time imagining Katsuragi or Zaizen being any of them."

Miyamoto listed, "So that would narrow it down too...Shirakawa, Takanashi, Oomichi, Nakamura, Ohtori, and Furinji based on body type."

Uchida swallowed as she insisted, "W-well, Ohtori's leading the charge against them, so I doubt she was there. And I don't want to suspect Shirakawa-san or Takanashi-chan, but..."

Miyamoto frowned, "I don't want to suspect anyone, but we have to, right? I guess that's why Ohtori didn't..."

As Uchida blinked, prying with her eyes, Miyamoto relented, "Er, well, I got a note too, you see. I didn't go though! I just brought it straight to Ohtori." Miyamoto muttered, "She didn't think it was anything major, but she wouldn't let me go either. I mean, I didn't know about the masks you were talking about or anything, so I didn't think about my size, but it felt like...she couldn't rely on me. I should have gone anyway."

Uchida shook her head, saying, "N-no, it's fine! Leader didn't say anything meaningful, is was all crap! Well, mostly crap."

Miyamoto grumbled, "That's not the point. She didn't trust me to go, and I'm tired of that! At school I always had these ideas to increase efficiency, but they'd always shoot them down. Then they'd end up doing them anyway! I mean, sure, they'd have to get approval from the school board first, but why go behind my back? And when I wanted to do some late night studying at the school, they wouldn't let me, even though they have no problem with students staying over night to prepare for culture festivals and stuff. Sure, those are fun, but don't the priorities sound mixed up? Education should be first at a school, right!?"

Uchida nodded, responding, "W-well, that's true, but-"

"But once Hope's Peak started looking at me, all that flipped around, and they were practically begging me to help more. At first, I didn't mind: serves them right, but now I just don't know any more," Miyamoto moaned.

Uchida cringed, Leader's words floating back to her mind. However, Miyamoto continued, "I just want to be relied on like Ohtori-san. Like in general, not just when it comes to school. I guess I should be happy for that much though, huh..."

Uchida frowned, "Y-you were good during the Trials!"

Unsatisfied, Miyamoto sighed, "I guess, but maybe I want something else." The Tutor shuddered, "But that Sonia...she was messing with me last night too, about how if Ohtori relied on anyone, she wouldn't need to carry around her rapier. I mean-" Miyamoto froze, eyes widening in realization.

Uchida blinked, "Miyamoto-san?"

Shaking her head, Miyamoto began, "Er, actually I'm gonna go. I need to check something." Without further word, Miyamoto moved out, leaving Uchida a bit confused.

Alone once again, Uchida decided to leave Miyamoto be for now, instead continuing her own exploration. She found nothing of note except that time had left her by the time she'd finished, and she made her way back to the Towers by evening. The Walls were so empty, yet so expansive...

Reaching the Dining Hall, almost everyone was present and eating. Uchida took her time in getting a meal as she took a seat, the room being colder than she remembered. Not even minutes later, Hiiragi and Katsuragi arrived from the stairs. Hiiragi gasped, "Uchida-san? I thought you were in your Suite."

Uchida took a breath before smiling, "We must have missed each other." Looking at Katsuragi, she noticed that he looked much fresher than before, his hair and clothes clean, face neutral.

Glancing around, Ohtori began, "It seems as though we're all here."

Nakamura snorted, "Unlike yesterday. I mean, Uchida and Miyamoto I can understand, but seriously, Zaizen, why were you moping in your room?"

Zaizen scoffed, "Moping? I was glued to the television set, taking in as much information as I can."

"Learn anything?" Shirakawa wondered.

Zaizen flinched, "Nothing new. Horrors, tragedies, chaos, ruin..."

As the mood sank, Ohtori interrupted, "While it concerning, we have more pressing matters right in front of us. Firstly, I will state that Sonia Nevermind is not restricted to her castle as we may have thought at first. Secondly, it has come to my attention that someone among you is plotting."

Uchida shuddered at the thought, but she hadn't really considered the gravity. Someone at this table was Leader, eating as normally as anyone. It was hard to imagine that faceless, droning voice belonging to any person though...

Wiping her forehead, Uchida began, "Last night, someone calling themselves 'Leader' passed out a few invitations to a meeting. Me and Hiiragi ended up going, but when they started talking about ending the Game through a murder, we ended up leaving. It turns out Miyamoto also got an invite, but she didn't go. There were three others who went though, and Leader themself."

Hiiragi continued, "Leader mostly talked about how much they thought Talent and Hope's Peak was hurting the world."

Zaizen blinked before stammering, "Excuse me? Hurting the world? One could say modern day society is the direct result of Hope's Peak influencing so many organizations and industries."

Taking a breath, Uchida began, "Well, it was more about complacency." Trying to remember, she began to explain a bit more fully, being sure to mention the other masked participants.

Of course, she realized she'd slipped up when Katsuragi asked, "So, who gave them the nicknames?"

Hiiragi nodded, "I was gettin' confused."

Uchida's face burned as she said, "Ah, er, I did..." The girl grumbled, "It helped, didn't it!?"

Katsuragi nodded, before laughing, "Well, they don't fit thematically. I mean, Pupil is a body part, but the rest aren't."

Uchida frowned, "Y-you try basing it on one thing! And keep 'Leader' too!"

Clearing her throat, Ohtori began, "Well, that's besides the point. What is most worrying is the unknown identities of this group, and how they might instigate a killing."

Shirakawa noted, "I don't imagine anyone wants to come forth?"

Miyamoto shrugged, "Even if they did, we couldn't be sure."

Zaizen began, "I'm more concerned about any allegiances. They seem to be against both Hope and Despair, yet utilize the former."

Kitano shrugged, "Who cares? It's the same as usual."

Katsuragi frowned, "No, not really..."

Nakamura scoffed, "Huh? Why not?"

Miyamoto shuddered, "No, I get it. I mean, think of it this way: normally, you have one person acting to get themselves freedom, but this time, you have four people trying to get one of them freedom."

Hiiragi gasped, "You mean like accomplices?"

Takanashi gulped, "Monokuma said it was foolish, but they may not care."

Miyamoto began, "It might not work out for Leader though. I mean, thinking from their perspective, Leader could be trying to manipulate people to allow them to escape, but that should be pretty obvious. If I were one of the guys working with Leader, I wouldn't want to let Leader into a position where they could kill. That'd test their stupid ideals."

Ohtori opened her mouth to speak, but the bells of a PA system rang out, and Monokuma's voice interrupted, the bear beginning, "Upupu, how nice to have you in one place! All this talk about cults is nice, but you know, it seems silly to make you guys just wait for them to do something, so it's my turn! This time, make your way to your Suites. Gehehehe..."

As silence gripped the Dining Hall, Uchida felt her heart race in anticipation, her breath getting heavier. She knew it couldn't be anything good, and for that stupid bear to stop them why they were strategizing. While there was still silence, Uchida blinked when she saw that Ohtori was speaking. Why couldn't she hear anything? Looking around, her vision began to blur. Seeing her plate of food, it was mostly untouched, even though she was sure she'd been eating.

Shivering, Uchida felt her consciousness fade as she slipped from her seat, the ceiling panning over her vision before meeting the ground, unintelligible buzzing of voices reaching her ears as she slipped away.

"Uchida-chan? Uchida-chan!?"

Katsuragi had barely registered as Hiiragi leaped from her seat, circling the table to reach the fallen girl. Katsuragi felt his heart tense in worry, but then guilt overtook him.

He'd known. He knew full well that she was sick. And yet, he didn't pay any attention to it just now, as they'd discussed what Katsuragi might have thought was more important.

But threats of the future meant little in the face of present suffering.

"Huh, what happened?" mutter Kitano. Shirakawa's staff clacked on the smooth ground as he made his way over.

Hiiragi explained, "She's sick as a dog! She was restin', but..."

Takanashi frowned, "She seemed alright earlier."

Miyamoto nodded, "Maybe a little tired looking, but..."

As Shirakawa took a look, Hiiragi glanced between the two girls, asking, "When did ya see her?"

"In the Armory a few hours ago," Miyamoto explained.

Takanashi looked aside as she muttered, "Er, it was just after you left around noon, Hiiragi-sama."

Hiiragi let out a displeased moan as she grumbled, "You said you would rest, Uchida-chan..."

"And that's just what she needs," Shirakawa said as he stood, heading to the food console.

Approaching her side, Furinji stooped down to lift her, but Ohtori interjected, "Allow me."

Furinji stepped away, nodding, "Yes, I've overstepped my bounds..."

As she stooped down to pick up Uchida, the black haired girl breathing heavily, Ohtori stated, "I do appreciate the thought."

Reaching Ohtori's side, Shirakawa handed her a bottle of water, insisting, "Leave this with her as well, but we should probably get moving."

Monokuma grumbled over the intercom, "Yeah, hustle and bustle you mussels! Feel free to drop sleeping blandy in her Suite. I'll save her portion of my little gift for later, upupupu."

Monokuma's words were absolute, and the class began to make their way up the Tower, the group shrinking as they moved into their Suites. By the last floor, Katsuragi was alone once Zaizen and Furinji moved into theirs. His anxiety was gripping, but he had no choice as he got to his Suite, bracing himself as he cracked open the door.

Nothing. Nothing unusual yet, at least. Heart pounding, he took a few steps inside, not sure what to expect. After waiting a minute or so, he wanted to calm down and assume Monokuma was just sending them to bed early, but he wouldn't go this far for a little gag, would he?

As if to test that thought, the television suddenly flipped on, the noise making Katsuragi jump. While he couldn't see anything yet, as he warily got closer, he heard the words, 'Future Foundation Young Hope Project Interview Tape 4'. The voice was that or a formal sounding adult, giving Katsuragi a businessy vibe, but he'd never heard of a group called 'Future Foundation' before.

After a moment, there was bit more dialogue, the voice asking, "So, Katsuragi, if you would share your Talent?"

The voice that responded was not his own, however, it was the voice of his sister, the girl appearing on screen, sitting at a desk wearing a normal, pale green blouse, the bangs of her blue hair nearly covering her green eyes. As the rest went down to her shoulders. She hadn't even gotten a chance to say a word before Yaichi leaped over, sitting square in front of the screen as he cried, "Yumi-chan!?"

Yaichi's heart spasmed with emotions as Yumi, her voice a bit bored as she began, "I'm able to control every part of my dreams while I sleep."

"And you're here because?"

Yumi sighed, "To remain in shelter with other privileged kids who happened to be related to members of Future Foundation so we aren't brutally killed before the world is safer."

Yaichi whined, "Yumi-chan you shouldn't be so dark with strangers!"

As he spoke, the interviewer continued with a laugh, "Yes, you are quite lucky, but we don't have the resources-"

"Yeah, yeah, I get it," Yumi grumbled as she rolled her eyes.

After a moment, the interviewer continued, "So, we have your documented consent?"

Yumi nodded, mumbling, "I pledge to stay here until the world outside is made safe, not matter how long it takes."

The television switched itself off once more. Without a moment's hesitation, Yaichi hit the power button, but the screen only showed a commercial, his sister gone. Flipping it back off again, he laid back, locking his eyes on the ceiling as his heart calmed itself.

She was alive. Without a doubt, his sister was alive.

Hopping to his feet, Katsuragi could only jump for joy, letting out a cry of joy. He'd fear the worst, but luckily, those fears were unfounded. He continued to let out elated laughter for a few moments, before stopping as he considered the rest of his family. He could only pray that they were being kept safe by Future Foundation as well, but...

He wanted to leave. He wanted to see his dear sister this very second. That interview was such a short tease, but-

…

No. That's what Monokuma wanted, wasn't it? Katsuragi could guess the others got something similar: a diamond to seek in the smoldering coals of a burning world. A reason to escape.

Looking at the television longingly, Katsuragi slapped his cheeks. He couldn't act, even though he had the desire. She was safe and sound, wasn't she? But here, they were in danger, and come another Trial, Katsuragi would have to give assistance. He couldn't betray that by taking part in the Game.

Determination rising, Katsuragi exited his Suite, making his way back down. Once he got back, he wasn't surprised to see the others filing back into their seats, the meeting restarting. As Katsuragi took a seat, Ohtori began, "Well, what do you think?"

Furinji noted, "I was expecting worse, but it was simply a folder containing a few photos of my siblings in what appeared to be some sort of makeshift shelter."

Kitano laughed, "I knew some shitty apocalypse wouldn't take my mom down."

Takanashi smiled, "I was glad to see my mother and brother safe and sound..."

Miyamoto frowned, "I saw my dad, but the fact that I didn't see my mom is a little scary."

Shirakawa noted, "So, it seems we all received some form of evidence that we have relatives and loved ones alive?"

Through a hail of agreement, Nakamura grumbled, "Well count yourselves lucky, because all I got was a video of Monokuma laughing at me." Katsuragi frowned, as did a few others.

"I'm sorry for your loss," Ohtori offered, but Nakamura only gave a shrug.

"A-anyway, did you guys hear anything about a 'Future Foundation?" Katsuragi began, a few glancing his way. No answer. Blinking, Katsuragi continued, "Well, I saw a video of my sister being interviewed by some group called Future Foundation. She's in some kind of shelter with some other kids who are probably Talented."

"That sounds lucky!" Hiiragi smiled.

Oomichi giggled, "A Talented girl locked away with a bunch of other ones...what could go wrong?"

Katsuragi grumbled, "Don't joke like that!"

Zaizen muttered, "But still, it's quite strange, don't you think? It hasn't even been but a few days, but a shelter was prepared so soon? That would take time, and the only people who could move knowing the Worst Incident would occur would be-"

"The Super High School Level Despair bogeyman..." Monokuma moaned eerily. As Zaizen crossed his arms over his chest and looked aside, Monokuma laughed, "Don't act like you weren't gonna say it, honey."

"Don't act as though it isn't suspicious," Zaizen noted.

Katsuragi frowned, "I just don't want to think Yumi's in anything dangerous..."

Monokuma giggled, "Well, you don't have to worry about that! Future Foundation's the real deal. I mean, is it really so unbelievable that a bunch of former Hope's Peak Students could predict an uprising? I mean, even if they didn't expect the whole shebang, a few precautions wouldn't have hurt." Letting out a sigh, he said, "I wasn't sure if I should tell you guys about it so early, but seeing you guys being all mopey, well..."

Furinji spat, "You feed off Despair, beast."

Monokuma giggled, "True, but the Hopes that lead to Despair make it that much more satisfying! And like I said, I don't want Leader to steal all the fun, but maybe I jumped the gun a bit."

Shirakawa noted, "Uchida-san mentioned Leader wanting the others to give up their lives, but this incentive seems to counteract that."

Monokuma shrugged, "Ah, well who knows how it's gonna turn out? Besides, I'm not gonna help Leader or anything. I mean, they're just one of you guys. Putting on a mask doesn't change that! I do wish them luck though, upupupu." Waving a paw, Monokuma finished, "Can't wait for the next Trial~"

Once Monokuma was gone, Ohtori hissed, "There won't be one."

Looking over to Katsuragi, Zaizen asked, "Was there anything else about this Future Foundation?" As Katsuragi shook his head, Zaizen began, "Well, I suppose it's not impossible that they came up with something so quickly, as Monokuma said..."

Takanashi noted, "If they are alumni of Hope's Peak Academy, then I find it a bit interesting that they do not seem to be calling themselves 'Super High School Level'."

Furinji nodded, "Indeed; it's unlikely for them to be unaware of Super High School Level Despair."

Zaizen muttered, "They wouldn't avoid association with Hope's Peak, would they?"

Nakamura frowned, "Shouldn't you be answering that, smart guy?"

Hiiragi wondered, "Well, if they're tryin' t- er, trying to hide it, then maybe they know about Human Potency too. Leader might be out of country now, but I bet the rest of Human Potency is back home!"

Katsuragi nodded, "That's right! I've never heard of them before though."

Ohtori noted, "I don't imagine many have. Hope's Peak is rather popular, and I have the feeling they haven't done anything significant yet."

Shirakawa pointed out, "They could have been formed rather recently."

Miyamoto grumbled, "Hope's Peak Academy, Future Foundation, Super High School Level Despair, Human Potency...anyone else I'm forgetting?"

After a moment, Katsuragi stated, "The 79th Class." The reaction was less than expected: mostly some sideways glances or mumbling, rather than the confidence bolstering cheer he'd been expecting. The worried glances from those who shared his concern over the reaction like Hiiragi or Takanashi were reassuring though. All these factions cropping up made Katsuragi feel like they were less than important, merely ending up in someone else's game.

The conversation ended on that note, the sweet relief at seeing loved ones alive leaving a bitter taste with some of the other implications.

One of the last ones to get up, Katsuragi was stopped before he'd even started, a giggle from behind him beginning, "Kukuku. It seems that positive energy still isn't the best cure for fear after all."

Unable to deny her, Katsuragi stood, admitting, "Yeah, it's still laughter..."

Oomichi's eye twitched as she hissed, "I curse such revelry..." Smiling a bit, she hid her mouth behind the sleeve of her kimono as she added, "Unless used to lower ones guard."

Nodding in agreement, Katsuragi reached out his hands, slipping them under Oomichi's arms, wiggling his fingers. Reflexively, she pinched her arms to her sides to try and pin his fingers, but it was useless. Unfortunately, she didn't laugh, but her face did curl into a horrific smile, a few choking noises and snorts coming from her mouth.

A bit disappointed, Katsuragi retracted his hands, Oomichi taking a wheezy breath before snarling, "Out of line!"

"Sorry, sorry," Katsuragi said as he raised his hand, patting her on the head.

"Noooooooo!" Oomichi moaned, flailing her arms helplessly.

Lifting his hand, Oomichi began to run her fingers through her hair, making sure it was properly aligned. Oomichi grumbled, "What is your fault? Why can't you shirk away from me like a normal person?"

Katsuragi admitted, "Well, I've been out of it for a day or so, so I'm checking to see if I still have it. Want me to make it up to you? I'll get some ice cream."

Giving a bitter grin, Oomichi said, "Fetch me matcha flavored...gelato."

Katsuragi blinked, before nodding, "A Japanese tea flavor of Italian ice cream...in Novoselic."

"With sprinkles," Oomichi added.

Unable to deny, Katsuragi headed over, perfectly willing to sacrifice a meal for her. He hadn't eaten lunch, after all... Giving the console a look...he made the selection and a bowl began to come out of the conveyer.

Stepping over, Oomichi sputtered, "Hah!? You expect me not to know the difference between ice cream and gelat-"

"It said gelato," Katsuragi stated, before nodding, "No sprinkles though."

Picking up the bowl with a blank stare, she took a spoonful, before admitting, "Well, I'm simply surprised that this menu can cater to my unusual tastes."

"I wonder if they have balut?" Katsuragi wondered.

Scoffing as she returned to the table, Katsuragi at her heels, she stated, "Oho, you think you can ruin my appetite? Duhuhuhu, you are out of your depth."

Sitting down, as she ate her bowl, the two discussed the grossest foods they knew: casu marzu, kutti pi... Oomichi was correct though: Katsuragi felt his stomach churn at her descriptions, but he had to admit, he was impressed in a way: with every word, Oomichi continued to eat as easily as if they were talking about the weather...

As Oomichi pushed aside her empty bowl, Katsuragi hastily changed subjects, asking, "Hey, Oomichi-san...how did you know all that stuff?"

Oomichi began, "It's been said of me that those looking to discover my methods of fear have come to me for assistance: authors, game developers, a rather young Director who had made a rather gross trilogy of films. We had a quaint dinner."

"Intestines, human hearts, and goat skulls?" Katsuragi wondered.

Oomichi replied, "Hot pot."

Katsuragi blinked, "What was in it?"

"...Beef, tofu, vegetables. One cannot keep my thin figure without watching what they eat," Oomichi said.

"Who are you and what have you done with Oomichi-chan?" Katsuragi gasped.

Shooshing him, Oomichi insisted, "Say nothing more. Instead, let us talk about family! I have a grandfather and a younger sister named Yumi. My grandfather was a Hope's Peak student."

Crossing his arms over his chest, Katsuragi insisted, "That's my family, not yours."

"Not yet."

"Wh-what?" Katsuragi blinked.

"Nothing," Oomichi insisted.

Shaking his head, Katsuragi had to admit, he was curious now. "You mentioned your dad before, didn't you?"

Oomichi nodded, "Yes, I see him, but not as often as I would like. He is quite busy, you see...traveling."

Katsuragi nodded, "Right, to the moon."

Oomichi narrowed her eyes for a moment, before continuing, "Our family is rather wealthy, but he chooses not to be a layabout."

"And your mom?" Katsuragi asked.

"She's right behind you," Oomichi insisted.

Katsuragi laughed, "I'm not gonna fall for that one."

"Don't listen to him, he doesn't know what he's saying," Oomichi insisted.

Katsuragi opened his mouth, but was struck cold as a chill ran from his left shoulder to his spine, then down his torso. Reflexively, he turned to look, but there was nothing. Shuddering, he wondered, "Is...is you mom..."

"Don't move too quickly, you might aggravate her."

"Call a spirit detective!"

"Would a death god suffice?" Oomichi asked. Katsuragi nodded. Oomichi began, "Mother, Katsuragi-san needs you."

"Noooo..." Katsuragi moaned. Slumping down, his head hit the table, before he began to slip from his seat, falling under the table.

After several moments, neither spirit nor human came to his aid, so he got back up to see Oomichi taking her bowl back to the food console. Katsuragi whined, "We aren't done yet!"

With a resigned sigh, Oomichi returned to the table, taking a seat. Katsuragi asked, "Siblings?"

Oomichi stated, "I was once a fraternal twin. My brother never made it past infancy, however."

Katsuragi frowned, "Aw...what happened?"

Oomichi shrugged, "I wonder. Do you have an idea?"

Trying to think Katsuragi felt a bit awkward as he suggested, "Was he premature?"

Oomichi shook her head, before chortling, "No, but you are to a degree with all of your cartoons and games."

Katsuragi conceded to that, before suggesting, "Was there some kind of accident?"

Oomichi giggled, "One of us was planned, but the other was an accident..."

Katsuragi gave a weak smile: at least it wasn't triplets. Trying to think, he recalled, "I did hear of something once...sudden infant death syndrome?"

Oomichi nodded, "Indeed! I must admit that I am just as curious as to you as to the cause of his death."

Katsuragi muttered, "Er, I wasn't really-"

"Suffocation? Poor genes? An improper sleeping position? Quite a mystery, no? The true causes are still unknown. I find it fascinating, really: what if the causes are simply beyond are perceptions?"

"Is that really 'simple'?" Katsuragi said.

Oomichi finished, "But I suppose what I might be most curious about is who he might have become..."

Katsuragi added, "Yeah, he might have been here with us."

Oomichi nodded, "How horrific would that be..." Smiling, she finished, "For you." Katsuragi winced: two Oomichi siblings...way too spooky.

However, Katsuragi couldn't help but notice, "But you aren't...lonely, right?"

Oomichi's stare was blank for a moment, before she said, "As you said...I'm a member of the 79th Class, aren't I?"

Katsuragi sniffled, "Oomichi-chan!" Standing, he tried to reach across the table to hug her, but as he flopped down, she was already gone, scampering up the stairs. Resigning, Katsuragi nodded: he'd rather have her feeling smothered than alone, that was for sure.

The next day...what, did you forget what happened? Too bad! If you jump in during the middle this is to be expected! But how do they expect you to keep up when they only air the first episode once, hmm... Oh well, guess that's what the internet is for! But then why watch television at all? If you change the channel though I'm gonna be unbearably upset.

Now, as I was saying, when Monomi came to school the next day, she was ready and early! Once she was through the gate, she bumped into her classmate, Mojibi. After a friendly stab on the back, she made her way to class while he bled on the ground, wishing he was at home playing guitar.

In the halls, she ran into Mofode. The airhead didn't give her much choice, since she started running first! Of course, she didn't run so good after they parted ways. That one felt particularly good, since she'd been one of Mokabe's friends. Didn't I tell you?

Anyway, Monomi finished her journey through the empty halls as she got to her class, which had Mokabe and her other fun friend, Mogoe. Like deer, they were frozen as Monomi went towards them. Jumping out the window was impossible since they were on the second floor and probably would have blown out their girly knees. But even though they were such good friends, neither of them thought to let the other go, and that made Monomi mad! She jumped them, getting to Mogoe's cute little paw first before pointing her knife at Mokabe.

But then, Moluki came in through the door!

Yes, the exclamation points really added to the tension of the scene, I think. Anyway, Monomi Theater XI has been copyrighted by Monokuma Inc. Please do not illegitimately distribute, or you risk a lawsuit. And claw marks, you little shit. Grawr!

"So that's how it is," Uchida muttered.

Katsuragi took a breath, having just finished assisting Hiiragi and Takanashi explain last night to Uchida, the girl having been quiet confused when she woke up to her incentive.

Pushing her empty breakfast dish aside, Takanashi noted, "From what Katsuragi-sama said, I feel as though Future Foundation is not our enemy."

Hiiragi pointed out, "Leader probably wouldn't like 'em though, since they're Talented and all."

Uchida added, "Well, they'd be really critical of them, at least. Though it's scary how Leader predicted them though. I mean, a group of Hope's Peak alumni getting together and trying to fix some of this crap?"

Hiiragi smiled, "Oh, they might be workin' on getting' us outta here!"

Takanashi frowned, "If they know where we are at all."

Hiiragi pouted, "What happened to havin' Hope?"

Takanashi gave a weak smile as she said, "You are correct. My apologies."

Uchida seemed to be in thought, but after a moment, the girl asked, "Katsuragi-kun: you know, if Future Foundation is supposed to be made up of former Hope's Peak students, and your sister had to have been related to one to get in that shelter, that must mean...er, do you happen to know Katsuragi Kumin or Katsuragi Seijiro?"

Surprised, Katsuragi Yaichi began, "Er, I don't know about Kumin, but Seijiro's my grandpa."

Uchida nodded, "Oh, that makes sense. I mean...wait, what is his Talent exactly?"

Katsuragi blinked, "He was the Super High School Level Neurologist! I mean, there's another, but he's the older one."

Uchida nodded thoughtfully, "That makes sense..."

"Why do you ask?" Katsuragi wondered, a slight smile on his face.

Uchida waved her hands, insisting, "Oh, er, I just heard the names...uh, a while ago. Katsuragi's kind of a common name so I didn't want to assume though, y-you know?"

Not wanting to pry, Katsuragi simply nodded. After a moment, Hiiragi wondered, "What is your sister like, Katsuragi-kun?"

As Hiiragi said his name again, the Dreamer couldn't help but pump his fist inwardly as he realized he was surrounded by cute girls again. To answer her question, however, Katsuragi began, "Well, she's pretty small and cute: like huggable, you know? She also has a tough sleep schedule, since she only takes half an hour naps every few hours so she has more time dreaming, so she lets me take care of her. If she didn't follow her schedule then she'd end up really tired for days. I mean, she basically has to sleep at school during lunch so there isn't a whole lot of time to eat, so if I didn't make her quick to eat lunches, she'd be in trouble."

Uchida grinned, "She's pretty high maintenance, huh?"

"Worth every second," Katsuragi nodded.

"I hope she is appreciative," Takanashi said.

Katsuragi shrugged, "I do it because she's my one and only sister! I mean, I don't need her to tell me she loves me all the time. I mean, I know it's true. I'm just glad she trusts me. I mean, when I tell her an anime is good she usually tries to watch it, even if she doesn't always agree."

Uchida frowned, "Don't corrupt her!"

Katsuragi growled, "Never! I mean, she has real friends, so I'm guessing she doesn't talk about it at school."

Hiiragi wondered, "Do you have a lot of other friends?"

Katsuragi winced, "Er, you guys..."

Uchida sighed, "Do you talk about anime at school?"

Katsuragi slumped, "I tried..."

Hiiragi pouted, "But yer so friendly!"

Uchida giggled, "Well, if he couldn't make friends with a bunch of other weird kids like us, he'd be the uber weirdo."

"Now now," Takanashi sighed.

Stretching, Uchida began, "Well, thanks for filling me in guys. I'm going..." Uchida looked at Hiiragi before finishing, "Straight back to bed." Hiiragi gave a knowing smile as Uchida got up, making her way upstairs.

PArting ways, Katsuragi got up and made his way out, getting some sun. Feeling energized already, he figured he'd give the new area a check, since he really hadn't yet.

Heading outside, his path took him to the Wall. Walking around inside for a bit, checking out the Armory, he headed up, seeing a figure making their way around. Heading over, Katsuragi hoped to catch up, managing to come up from behind, waving, "Morning!"

Turning, Nakamura nodded, "Yeah, it is."

"What's up?" Katsuragi asked.

Glancing around, Nakamura shrugged, "We are, I guess."

As Katsuragi started to feel awkward, wondering how to approach him, Nakamura sighed, "Well, since you aren't gonna go away, come on."

Katsuragi wondered, "Where are we going?" Nakamura grumbled under his breath, but didn't answer. In fact, as they walked around the top of the Wall, he said nothing more, the two moving in relative silence. At least there was a view! Though the city was looking rather majestic at the time, with the pillars of smoke everywhere...

The pair stopping near the oceanside, Katsuragi began to take a look, seeing a few dots in the distance, spaced evenly, likely ships, but they weren't moving. It was kind of ominous, really.

"So," Nakamura began, pausing for a moment before asking, "...What'd you want again?"

Katsuragi said, "Just to talk, you know?"

"Sure, sure. About what?" Nakamura asked.

"About you, I guess," Katsuragi insisted.

"Greeeeat," Nakamura grumbled.

Katsuragi offered, "Well, if you don't want too, I can leave."

Nakamura shrugged, "Oh no! Don't go! Just because I don't really want to be here doesn't mean I should go. Not like there's anyway to really go, is there?" Cringing, Katsuragi decided not to respond.

Trying to regain the conversation, Katsuragi spotted the tattoo on his arm: it seemed to be of a chameleon, the hands grasping some kind of arrow. Katsuragi wondered, "What's that?"

"A tat."

After a moment of silence, Katsuragi reiterated, "I mean, why'd you get it?" Blinking, he couldn't help but continue, "And how? Don't you have to be a bit older to get one legally?"

Nakamura shrugged, "Maybe in some countries." Katsuragi leaned forward, silently prying, so Nakamura relented, "Fine. See, I was in the Mexican wilderness, looking to explore some temples and shit."

Katsuragi gasped, "Man, temples and shit? What kind of scientist studies poop again?" Nakamura shot a stern look, so Katsuragi gave a smile before letting him continue.

Nakamura continued, "So anyway, I went to check out one the locals had been talking about, but it turned out some cult had set up shop there. I couldn't get close though, which was a shame, but I had an idea. Turns out cults don't spring up from temples, they actually recruited from a local town I hadn't been to yet, so put on a disguise and applied. However, I had to get the tattoo as a symbol that I was in the cult-"

Katsuragi interjected, "Wait a minute, chameleons are African mostly, aren't they?"

Nakamura shrugged, "They're in some parts of Asia, Europe, and North America too, but I guess they shot down the bloody skull tattoo idea. Not subtle enough, you know?"

As Katsuragi held back some chuckles, Nakamura continued, "But anyway, it worked, and I got in. I got a place to sleep, but that night I started sneaking around, trying to get a scope on the place. I mean, you don't hide in a temple if you aren't into some shady shit, you know? Human sacrifices, human trafficking, human...human."

"Human human?" Katsuragi blinked.

"Human human," Nakamura said. Katsuragi nodded in understanding, even though he had no idea what he was talking about. And chances were neither did Nakamura.

"Anyway, go ahead and guess: what do you think they were up too?" Nakamura began.

Katsuragi thought for a moment, before beginning, "Um, they were...it was a cult, so they captured local virgins, and you managed to rescue them in a daring escape! And they all professed their love to you but you were like 'hey, it's cool and all, but there's this class trip I've got to go on, so...'"

Nakamura snorted, "Hell no! Forget higher education, I'd be in on that! ...Which means it didn't happen."

Katsuragi sighed, "I guess you aren't that cool after all..." Nakamura glared, so Katsuragi quickly said, "Well, you probably found their treasure and nabbed it. I mean, it would look better in a museum, after all."

"I actually did find an emerald ring, but it was from some Mexican jewelry chain. Like Nova or something."

"Oh," Katsuragi said, before shrugging, "I don't know then...illegal goods?"

Nakamura shrugged, "Close enough. Turned out the cult was all bullshit, as most are, and it was actually a front for a drug lab. They set up a bunch of equipment in the ancient ruins and the cult members were actually just gangsters. They just adapted to the local religion and formed a cult based on it as a front so the villagers wouldn't turn them in to the authorities. I did though: got those fuckers good."

Katsuragi grinned, "But since you still have the tattoo, they will always live on in your heart."

"Actually, I was thinking about getting it covered up with like a dragon or something," Nakamura said.

Katsuragi lit up as he suggested, "Oh! Perched on a fallen castle tower instead of an arrow!"

Nakamura glanced over to the Palace, nodding, "Oh look, and there's the inspiration."

Katsuragi nodded, "That's what I'm talking about!"

Looking at the tattoo, he wondered, "Maybe I can get a Sonia in the mouth there..."

Chortling, Nakamura took a breath before stretching, finishing, "Well, we're having too much fun with that idea. Let's call it quits before Monokuma sticks his head up our asses." Turning to leave, he gave a lazy wave as he said, "Later, I guess."

Returning the wave, Katsuragi watched him go. He had to admit, Nakamura seemed so casual telling the story, when chances were that it was plenty harrowing to experience. If the latest Trial was any indication, he definitely wasn't a rock as far as emotions went, but the fact that he could still do things like that regardless of his feelings...that was bravery, wasn't it?

Mere minutes later, Katsuragi cracked the door open to the Dining Hall, eager for a meal. However, before he'd even taken a step in, he spotted Ohtori, the girl heading towards him.

"Afternoon, Ohtori-s-gah!" Katsuragi exclaimed, gasping out as the Fencer grabbed him. As she ruffled his clothes, Katsuragi stammered, "Wh-what are you doing!?"

After a moment, Ohtori stepped back, before shaking her head, "I apologize. There's been an issue, so I had to be certain."

Katsuragi blinked, "I'm sorry?"

Ohtori explained, "A form has been filed at the Armory."

Blinking again, Katsuragi mumbled, "Uh..."

Ohtori let out an impatient sigh, before asking, "Am I saying it wrong? A weapon was taken from the Armory."

Recalling the room he was examining earlier, Katusragi nodded, "Ah, I see." Eyes widening in shock, he finished, "Oh. Oh."

Ohtori began, "We need to find it, immediately. It was for a 'hatchet', which I believe is some type of axe."

Looking at his baggy clothes, Katsuragi nodded, "Uh-huh." Trying to think, Katsuragi asked, "What if someone hid it in their room?"

Ohtori seemed concerned as she answered, "That will have to wait. While it would still be a danger, if it's on someone's person, then it is far more dangerous."

Before she could continue, Katsuragi heard the door to the outside open again, turning to see the shorter Furinji step through. Before Katsuragi could say anything, Ohtori pushed past him, reaching Furinji in an instant and beginning the search.

"H-hah!? H-have I wronged you!?" Furinji gawked.

Stepping back, Ohtori explained quickly, "I apologize, but a hatchet has been taken from the Armory, and without my consent. It needs to be found."

Katsuragi suggested, "Should we split up?"

Ohtori thought for a moment, before saying, "I would rather stay here, to keep anyone from depositing the weapon in their room, or retrieving it."

Furinji noted, "But if we came across any of the girls..."

Ohtori said, "I will claim responsibility, but at the very least warn them first." Gaze hardening, she assured the boys, "And by 'claim responsibility', I mean, 'don't do anything that inquires me to hurt either of you'."

Letting the slip of the tongue go by, Katsuragi nodded, "U-understood."

Leading the way, Furinji turned around, Katsuragi heading after as they went through to doors. Going down the stairs, the pair looked around, before Katsuragi asked, "Should we split up, or what?"

Furinji suggested, "The two of us being together would eliminate suspicions. I'd move much faster alone, but I will keep to your pace."

While being reminded of his physical inferiority wasn't very reassuring, Katsuragi nodded, "Right...let's go."

In an instant, Furinji made to break into a run, but went nowhere, stopping to ask, "Where?"

Looking around, Katsuragi saw no one, across the grounds, so he suggested, "The Garden! Then the Wall!"

By the time he started the second sentence, Furinji had already bolted off, his brown braid trailing behind him. Katsuragi attempted to flounder after him, but it took a few moments for him to get close, Furinji slowing down considerable, a mild look of disappointment on his face as he suggested, "You should consider excising more. It would prolong your lifespan, and for someone who sleeps so much..."

Katsuragi argued, "I don't sleep any more than the usual guy!"

After a moment, Furinji suggested, "I suppose you may simply value it more." Katsuragi gave a short laugh, unable to disagree.

Reaching the Royal Garden, the pair began to look through the trees, trying to find anyone who'd been concealed in the foliage. Sure enough, Katsuragi spotted Miyamoto standing near a tree. Stepping out, the Tutor 's eyes widened in shock, the girl taking a step back as a sound resembling the crumpling of a paper or crushing of a leaf was heard. As Furinji arrived, Katsuragi insisted, "I'm not gonna hurt you!"

Miyamoto grumbled, "You just scared me a little, that's all..."

Approaching, Furinji began, "If you would relent, I would like to search you for concealed weapons."

Miyamoto blinked, "Eh? Why?"

Katsuragi explained, "Someone filled out a form in the Armory...whatever that means."

Miyamoto blinked, before shrugging, "So what?"

While the small girl pondered, Furinji moved over, running his hands down her as he patted her down, making the girl squeal in shock, raising her arms. Once he was done, she skirted away, hissing, "Leave me alone! I'm telling you I'm safe!"

Furinji admitted, "I merely wanted to be certain. Feel free to report to Ohtori if you feel I made a mistake."

Miyamoto flinched, before turning away and muttering, "Whatever..." Without further word, she took her leave.

Once she was gone, Furinji suggested, "Let's proceed." With a nod, Katsuragi began to head off, the two making their way to the nearest Watchtower, closer to the Docks. Heading to the very top, a scan revealed that no one was walking on top of the wall, but it wasn't impossible that anyone was inside. Heading back down, the pair made their way through, passing a few Watchtowers as they reached the first point of interest, the Sleeping Quarters, after more than a few minutes. Furinji took lead, heading down a ladder as Katsuragi followed. Going down, the pair found themselves in a room with a number of beds, pushed so that they were too close to each other.

Standing amongst them however, gaze on one of the walls, was the bespectacled Zaizen. The Puzzler looked over to the boys as they entered, Furinji wasting no time in patting Zaizen down, much to his chagrin. He said nothing, but he did click his tongue.

Katsuragi apologized, "Sorry, Ohtori-san's orders."

Zaizen wondered, "There had better be a good reason." Thinking, he guessed, "Was a weapon taken from the Armory?" Katsuragi nodded grimly.

While Zaizen pondered, Katsuragi asked, "What are you doing here?"

Zaizen gestured at the wall, so Katsuragi stepped a bit closer, blinking in confusion as he saw a paper affixed to the wall. Dominating it was a symbol of some kind: a white circle, the bottom half filled it. There was some writing as well, reading 'Oh dear, it's gone? But perhaps a fresh lily will tease your thoughts?'

From behind them, Furinji muttered, "I don't follow."

Zaizen began, "It seems to be a riddle of some kind, but I'm missing pieces."

Katsuragi could resist, noting, "The Super High School Level Puzzler is, well, puzzled?"

Zaizen scoffed, "You can't expect one to play solitaire with half a deck. Of course, going off of this, I would search the Garden or the Burial Grounds."

Katsuragi blinked, before noting, "I would have guessed...the girl's changing room for the Bath!" The Dreamer flinched at the unamused stares, before insisting, "I was kidding!"

Furinji replied, "I didn't understand."

Katsuragi began, "You know? Lilies? ...Never mind."

Furinji ignored him, turning to Zaizen and noting, "There was nothing unusual at the Garden, so the Burial Ground then? It should be close by."

Zaizen shrugged, "I would be put more at ease by the reason for this note, but if we do have a situation, we should be quick."

With a nod, Furinji headed back up the ladder to the upper floor of the Sleeping Quarters, leading the other two as they headed to the nearest Watchtower, taking a few minutes to climb down. The rear corner of the Palace was in view, so they made there way over, wind increasing as they reached the Burial Ground. Katsuragi kept his eyes peeled, but no one was within sight.

As the trio went down the uneven path, Katsuragi shuddered as he realized that this was near where Leader had held their meeting. It was a few moments before Furinji spotted something, asking, "What's that?" Looking over, Katsuragi saw a dark blue cloth sticking out from behind a tree a few meters into the foliage. Blinking, he began to step over, but halted as a series of bells chimed throughout the grounds.

"Ah, attention please, your attention please, we've got a body over here. Please, ready yourself for a Class Trial, upupupu!"

Katsuragi gasped, looking around as he asked, "Who?" Hands starting to shake, he looked over to the dark cloth and prayed, "No..."

Gingerly, Furinji made his way over, taking a stiff breath, Zaizen following, clearly a bit sweaty. Katsuragi was last as he stepped around the tree, getting a look at the dark blue cloth. He flinched when he noticed it seemed to be covering a body, leaning against the wood. Briefly glancing to the pair, Furinji stooped down before carefully pulling it off.

Katsuragi let out a low whine as he saw the small, frame of Miyamoto, her eyes closed behind askew glasses, her neck gouged by a steel hatchet, blood dripping from the axe blade still lodged in the fresh wound. And yet, her expression, somehow seemed peaceful.