Chapter 49: XMAS: Part Three

9:08 P.M Day Thirteen

Second Floor

Library

"You wanted to see me Oogami?" Mukuro asked quietly as she folded her arms. Her tone was civil, but her body language was definitely tense. She had let her guard down and let Sakura overhear her conversation earlier with Hina, now she would have to face the consequences of that. She doubted the Martial Artist would be as understanding as Aoi.

"I did actually. Hina has a massive burden on her shoulders, and I genuinely believe you have her wellbeing in mind. That being said I cannot ignore what is in front of my eyes. Clearly you know more than the rest of us. From what I overheard, it seems your memories are intact unlike the rest of us. It makes me unsettled to say the least." The Martial Artist mused.

"You mean you're uneasy around me? You probably think I'm working with Monokuma right? "Mukuro suggested as she leaned against one of the tables.

"I realize that paranoia is not healthy with present circumstances, but you've proven to be aware of things the rest of aren't privy to. You've done quite a lot to protect us. Were it not for your quick thinking, I'm not sure Makoto would still be with us. The same can be said for Asahina. Were it not for you risking your wellbeing by deceiving us, I have no doubt she would have been the one executed. However I cannot fathom why someone who is on our side would actively withhold information. You must understand how that seems. " Sakura said as her icy glue blaze scrutinized the shorter girl.

"Believe me. In your position I wouldn't trust me either. Honestly Sakura, I've done horrible things. Vile acts that no person should ever commit. Things that will undoubtedly haunt me for the rest of my life. I basically have an invisible gun to my head. If I say too much, my life would only the be the start. First everything I cared about, would be taken away, then after I was broken, I'd be next." she paused a moment as she chewed on her thoughts.

"I will do everything I can to protect the others until we're free or I die in the process. Unfortunately I can't be the one to solve the truth of this place. That task falls the rest of you. You don't have to trust me, watch me do whatever you feel is required. However at least believe me when I say, that I want to save as many lives as I can. It's the least I can do." The Ultimate Soldier offered, before falling silent.

Oogami was quiet for a long moment. "Until the day the whole truth can come to light, I can't say I trust you entirely. However I do want to believe your words are sincere. You're not the only one who carries a great deal of regret." she mused as brief look of shame crossed her face. "I have a feeling that this evening was just a show. It must have been a cover up for something far worse. I intend to keep a close eye on everyone.

"Including me?" Mukuro mused with a half hearted smile.

Oogami frowned slightly. "Don't take it personally." she said as she walked toward the door.

"I don't. Like I said before, in your shoes, I'd feel the same way." The Soldier let out a faint sigh, as her eyes flitted to the unopened box that was settled on the table next to her.

Just as she was about to tug at the bow she heard footsteps approaching. Her gaze flitted towards the doorway as she saw Maizono standing there.

"Thank goodness. Is everything alright? Sakura seemed on edge and I still haven't seen Hina." The Idol's brow furrowed in concern, as her hands clutched at the silver heart shaped pendant that now lay around her neck.

Mukuro forced a weak smile as she shook her head. "I found Donuts. She panicked and needed a chance to wrap her head around some things."

"She's pregnant isn't she?" Sayaka asked suddenly causing Ikusuba's eyes to widen abruptly.

"H-How in the world did you?" The Soldier trailed off as the blue haired girl slowly approached her, before leaning against the table with wry smile.

"Psychic remember? No call it good intuition. I was with her when she got sick yesterday, and she was talking about her weird cravings." The Idol mused. "I can only imagine how scared she must be. I'm sure Naegi will do the right thing though. He always does and we'll be there too."

Mukuro stared at the girl a moment, before shaking her head. "It's almost scary how good your instincts are."

Sayaka smiled faintly. "I've had a few clues ya know? Junko have any of your memories come back? I mean anything at all?"

"Bits and pieces." The Soldier lied through her teeth, as her gaze slowly flitted to the blue haired girl. "Why do you ask?"

The Ultimate Idol took a measured breath. "Because I think we were all very close before this and I mean really close." she said as she bent lower as she unclasped the locket around her neck.

The Soldier felt a dry chuckle escape her, as she stared at the contents. Inside of the heart shaped locket was a single photo. One of Makoto,Aoi, Maizono and herself. The three girls were all embracing, an embarrassed looking Makoto. All off them were wearing a Hope's Peak Uniform. Of course this trinket was familiar to the Soldier. "What are you suggesting Saya? It's just a picture."

"No it's not just a picture. You know I'm right too, even if you don't want to admit it." The Idol's brow furrowed in frustration.

"What am I suppose to say? Do you think we were all in some sort of Harem with Naegels? Don't you think that sounds crazy?" Mukuro asked as she scrutinized the girl.

Maizono bit her lower lip. "I don't know what's the truth anymore. Maybe we were in some sort of strange relationship with each other, or maybe we were all just very close. What I believe with all my heart is this is proof that we have lost track of time. We need to talk to them." she murmured softly.

Mukuro offered a tired expression, as she curled an arm around the other girl's waist. "Let's let them have tonight alright? They have a lot to talk about."


9:17 P.M Day Thirteen

Second Floor

Ballroom

The Large Ballroom was nearly empty save a single couple.

The decorated room was bathed in the glow of Christmas lights.

"This is called the Waltz." Sonia said softly as she laced her hands with Gundham's, as she guided the boy across the floor.

Tanaka felt heat rush to his face from how close Sonia's face was to his own. "This seems like second nature to you Dark One."

A trill of laughter escaped the Princess. "While I'm not a dancer like Saionji, such practices were bestowed upon me at an early age. Such is the nature of Royalty in most countries I imagine."

"You know it is unlike your family would approve of a demon such as me. I'm sure I would not be their ideal choice in regards to your future.." Gundham said as he adjusted his hand upon her back.

The blonde's lips twitched ever so slightly, as she guided him through a turn. "Mm no I imagine that's true. However you'll find that I'm quite stubborn when it comes to what I believe in. Besides the affairs of Novoselic hardly pertain to us at the moment. In this place we might as well be in a different world altogether. I see no reason to lose any sleep over matters that seem so distant."

"And when we do leave this place?" Gundham asked quietly as his heterochromatic gaze met her eyes.

"You're so certain Gundham. What if that's not in the cards though? What if there is no means of escape? I suppose I can see why Angie would propose such an idea in the first place. There's no guarantee of us ever leaving this prison." Sonia said quietly as she began to allow him to lead.

"You have my word Princess. We will leave this place one day, of that I have no doubt. So do not let Yonaga's words poison you. Just enjoy this moment. That dress looks lovely on you." Tanaka murmured somewhat shyly.

"Oh I'm enjoying every bit of it. This is where you dip me, just make sure to support my back." Sonia breathed softly against him as she felt herself falling.

The sensation only lasted but a brief moment till she felt an arm securing her in place. Gundham's face was but a breadth from her own.

"That was splendid! You're a born natural at this." Sonia's lips curled into a tender smile. Her eyes widened slightly as she suddenly felt a pressure against her mouth. Firm meeting softness. Her mouth melding against his in a passionate and yet tender exchange.

The Ultimate Breeder finally broke the lip lock, as he stared down at her with an endearing look. "Merry Christmas my Queen."

"Merry Christmas darling." Sonia smiled brightly as her arms curled around him tightly.

It wouldn't last, but this brief moment of respite was one of moments that made all the suffering bearable.

It was but one instance of Hope and Despair in the never ending tug of war.


9:24 P.M Day Thirteen

First Floor

Bathhouse

"Fuji? How much longer do I gotta cover my eyes? If this is a chance to do something pervy, you don't gotta try so damn hard." Miu smirked impishly.

The Programmed flushed slightly as he shook his head. "No it's not like that at all. I wanted to give you something just in time for Christmas, well in case it actually is." he murmured as he slowly sat the laptop in the Inventor's lap. "Ok you can open your eyes Ruma."

"Ruma huh? I got a pet name too? bout fucking time." The blonde grinned as her eyes fluttered open, before she stared in surprise as the computer screen. "What am I looking Fuji? Is this an avatar for you?"

Chihiro grinned as he leaned over and pressed something on the keyboard. "I'll let Ego explain."

"Oh hello hello! Pleased to meet you. You can call me Alter Ego. I'm Master Fujisaki's AI program. You can communicate with me, by typing your responses below."

A mischievous grin spread across the blonde's face as her digits began to race against the keyboard.

The AI's image flickered a moment as it's eyes widened. "M-Miss Iruma I don't believe I possess the means of reciprocating that kind of action. Please leave those requests to Master."

Chihiro sputtered slightly as he leaned over Miu's shoulder. "What in the world did you ask Ego?"

The Inventor grinned deviously. "Oh I was just asking if he was packing like you were? Guess he doesn't have a virtual dick."

The boy stared at her with a dumbfounded expression a moment. "For one Ego is designed to be more feminine and why would you ask her something like that?"

"That's easy! I wanted to see just how intelligent Ego was. Who knew an AI could get fucking embarrassed that's awesome!" The blonde snorted, before she yanked at the boy's collar, before brushing her lips against his. "Think we should get hot and heavy in front of Ego? Doesn't that sound like fun?"

Chihiro's face flushed as he reached out and settled his hands on her shoulders. "Miu we can't! What if someone walks in? Besides I wanted to show you something else." he stammered.

The blonde huffed as she curled some of her strawberry blonde hair around her index finger. "Fine play hard to get. So what's more important then me getting under that dress?"

Fujisaki cleared his throat as he leaned over and pressed a key on the laptop.

Immediately Ego's avatar changed, as Miu's face suddenly appeared on the computer screen.

"Hiya Fuji! Ready for a game of twister? Since I don't have any limbs, I'll let you fucking start and finish. Here's hoping to some happy endings." The synthetic voice purred as her eyebrows wiggled suggestively.

The Inventor blinked as she stared at the screen. "Fuji you're not allowed to be alone with that thing!" she exclaimed as she jabbed finger at the computer screen.

Fujisaki sweat dropped. "Miu are you really getting jealous over Doppelganger?"

The blonde huffed as she blew some hair out of her face. "If she's anything like me I don't trust her alone with you, and what's up with that name?"

Chihiro smiled faintly. "She's based off of Alter Ego's program, but I decided to base her default avatar as you. Doppelganger doesn't quite have the processing power that Ego has, but she can interface with almost any electronic device. Including a handbook. This technology is so important. I thought it would be smart to have a backup in case, something happens to one of the programs."

Miu's eyes widened in surprise. "You really think we could use them to end all of this shit?"

Fujisaki offered a sheepish expression. "I'm not saying it'll be easy, but anything is possible. I'm certain there must be a extensive network in this school. I suspect someone is controlling Monokuma wirelessly. So if we can gain access we can find an exit and maybe shut them out in the process."

"Have I told you how fucking sexy you are when you use that beautiful brain of yours?" Iruma smirked impishly. "So think we could use Doppelganger to hijack one of those Exisals? Or even Monokuma?"

The Programmer's brow furrowed. "Possibly, but I don't like the idea of doing that unless we have no other choice. The Mastermind probably has a lot more resources than we do. If we try to hijack one of the Exisals, there might be a self-destruct option like the Monokuma dolls. Then our trump card would be spoiled."

"Hmph so we have to play it at exactly the right time." Miu mused with an impish smile.


9:34 P.M Day Thirteen

First Floor

Classroom 1-A

Fuyuhiko let out a groan as he shoved his hands into his pockets. "Look I know what this is about. You're about to shit yourself over Peko having a weapon."

Ishimaru frowned as he folded his arms. "I just believe it introduces an unnecessary risk. If nothing else it puts everyone on edge."

"What the fuck do you want me to do about it?" The Gangster scowled slightly. "Even if I could get her to get rid of the damn thing, it's not like there aren't plenty of other weapons lying around. Shit don't tell me you haven't noticed the missing revolver in the Arcade. Then there's the shit in the Museum, just about everything in there is a deadly weapon."

Kiyotaka sighed. "I will concede that securing all dangerous objects is impractical. I am also concerned with a firearm being in one of our classmate's possession. Someone must have taken advantage of our lax security yesterday."

The Ultimate Gangster shook his head. "Look Pekoyama isn't stupid. If someone winds up dead from a Katana, who do you think is gonna be blamed? As for the gun? Maybe you and the other rejects of the Committee can sleuth that shit out. That is if you're done bickering with each other."

"I wish it were that simple to resolve. Though there is now such a rift, I'm not sure how to proceed." The Hall Monitor admitted with a sad smile.

Fuyuhiko rolled his eyes. "Shit are you that dumb? Just fucking apologize or some crap. It doesn't matter if you mean it. I still hate the idea of your little club, but right now it's causing more trouble because of your drama."

Ishimaru actually allowed a rare smile. "You do have a way with words. Perhaps we can arrange a meeting soon and put our differences aside."


9:45 P.M Day Thirteen

First Floor

Dormitories

"You're pregnant?" Naegi asked as his eyes widened in surprise as his gaze flitted down to her belly. "Hina what did Monokuma give you?" he asked as he took a seat on the bed next to her.

The Swimmer couldn't quite lift her gaze up, as she fidgeted with the unwrapped box that was settled next to her. "Mikan thought my symptoms fit pregnancy, but I've never done anything like that with anyone. Well at least I don't remember ever doing anything like that. I found these inside." she mumbled as she pulled out the pair of outfits that were inside. "I-I wouldn't blame you if you wanted to end things. We just started kissing and getting closer, and now I drop something like this on you." she sniffled as she wiped at her eyes.

The Ultimate Luck was quiet for a moment, before he reached out and gently raised her chin with one of his hands. "Hina you know I would never do that to you. You think this connected with the time we might have lost?"

Aoi numbly nodded her head. "Yeah Junko told me it was. S-She said you were the father. That she was certain it was you. I don't know what to do Makoto." she stammered slightly as she continued to fidget with the small clothes in her hands.

Makoto eyes widened marginally. "I'm going to be a father?" he asked as he seemed stunned for a moment. "Sounds like I've got a lot of growing up to do then." he chuckled slightly as he offered her a faint smile.

"You're not upset?" Hina asked with a bewildered expression as she stared at the boy intently.

Naegi rubbed the back of his head. "Am I surprised? Heck yeah. Am I nervous and worried? Of course, but I'm not upset. We'll figure it out together. How are you doing though Hina? You really had us worried when you bolted earlier."

"I'm sorry Koto. I just panicked when I saw these. You're my very first boyfriend, I don't even have experience dating and stuff. I freaked out and started assuming the worst." The Swimmer murmured.

Makoto curled an arm around her waist, as he gently kissed her cheek. "You can always tell me what's bothering you. I'll always be on your side Hina."

"This might be the longest day ever." Asahina admitted with a mirthless laugh as she leaned against the boy.

"Heh you could say that again. I'm glad it's almost over. I don't think either of us, could handle anymore bombshells." Naegi mused with a tired smile.

"You're still haven't panicked. I keep expecting you to suddenly disappear on me." Aoi said as her bright blue eyes peered down.

Naegi leaned up slightly as he offered her a serious expression. "Hey. I told you Hina, I'm not going anywhere. I know you you're scared, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't too. I mean this is all crazy. I mean to say we're in over our heads is an understatement, but I'm here for you. That hasn't changed." he said softly as he leaned his head against hers.

"It all sounds like some sort of bad soap opera.." Asahina laughed nervously as she bit back a few tears.

A weak smile pulled at Naegi's lips. "Yeah it kind of does." he chuckled as he gently ran his hand up and down her spine.

"Guess I really am lucky though when I think about it.." Naegi smiled.

"What do you mean Koto?" The swimmer asked softly as she stared at him.

"I mean we lost who knows how much time, and yet here we are with each other. I have to think lady luck or something is watching out for us."

Asahina sniffed slightly as she nodded. "How did you always stay so positive? Even when things are so horrible?"

Makoto curled his arms around her slowly. "My secret is that I don't. I'm just as scared as you are. I worry all the time. It's just that I know that letting that consume me, will only make it worse. What are you scared of Hina? You can tell me ya know."

The Ultimate Swimmer swallowed slowly. "I don't want to die here Makoto. I don't want to lose all of my friends I've made. I don't want to lose you. Now I have something else I don't want to lose too." she offered quietly as her hand slowly settled against her belly. "With Monokuma there's just so many things he can take away from us. I'm so afraid he's going to keep taking things, until there's nothing left." she felt her lower lip tremble.

"Hey what did I promise you after this started? We're going to leave this place together. One of these days, we're going to turn the tables on him." He smiled faintly as he squeezed her gently.

A weak smile pulled at her lips. "I can't wait to see his face when that finally happens."


9:56 P.M Day Thirteen

First Floor

Hallway

Shuichi was just about to step into his room, when he heard someone clear their throat.

The Detective tilted his head slightly as he noticed Kyoko. She was leaning against the wall with her arms crossed. "Just finish working out?" she asked quietly as she seemed scrutinize him intently.

"Well not so much for me. I mainly just watched the others. Turns out there's not a lot of good exercises I can do right after being skewered." he chuckled mirthlessly.

Kiri bowed her head slightly. "Forgive me Shuichi. I wanted to check on you too, but all of your friends have been with you most of the time. I didn't wish to intrude or anything. How are you feeling?" she asked as she pressed her gloved hands together.

"Honestly I'm pretty exhausted." He mused as he regarded the lavender haired girl, before his expression softened. "You know you don't have to worry about things like that Kiri. We're friends too right? You don't always have to be so formal."

The Detective girl feel silent a moment. "Sorry while my memories are still incomplete, I get the sense that socializing was never my strong suite. Though I will try to be more open with you.

*DING DONG* *DING DONG*

"Ahem. May I have your attention please? I hope you all have had a wonderful Christmas! This bear does love spreading despair! Ahem I mean cheer. However all good things must come to an end. The time is officially 10 P.M. and Nighttime is now in effect. The Cafeteria is now off-limits and the door will be locked momentarily. Oh and kiddos I have something extra special in mind for you tomorrow. Sweet dreams and to all a goodnight!" Monokuma's voice echoed throughout the hallway.

"Well that wasn't foreboding at all. I wonder what he has in store for us now." Shuichi sighed as he leaned against his door.

"I suspect we won't have to wait very long for that answer." Kyoko mused as she rested a hand against her chin.


10:13 P.M Day Thirteen

First Floor

Dormitories

The Ultimate Gambler drifted from the bathroom towards the door as the bell suddenly chimed. Her raven hair was loose and cascaded well down her back. Celestia wore a gothic inspired sheer nightie, that tapered off around her mid thigh. Her brow furrowed ever so slightly as she cracked the door ever so slightly. Her other hand was well secured behind her back.

"Celes I apologize for intruding upon you. I hope I didn't wake you." Twogami offered as he folded his arms across his chest.

The Lolita girl relaxed greatly as she forced a thin smile. "Not at all darling. The downside to taking so much effort in one's appearance, is it takes quite some time to wind down at night. I apologize if I am unseemly."

"Not at all. You're beautiful without all the extra bits." He offered a rare smile.

"That's kind of you to say. I must admit I'm surprised to see you here though. Shouldn't you be patrolling?" Celestia asked as she quirked a single brow.

"I was actually but I saw no harm in killing two birds with one stone. You left so abruptly earlier, that I was concerned. Are you well now?" The Imposter asked as he eyed the much shorter girl.

The Gambler leaned against the door as her lips flitted into a faint smile. "I'm fine darling. I was still skeptical of what might be inside those boxes. Turns out it was nothing to be alarmed about. Just another deck of playing cards. How bout you? What exactly did the Ultimate Imposter get for Christmas?"

The heavy set boy chuckled, as he patted at his suit. "Well it's a voice changing..." he trailed off as his eyes widened slightly. "I could have sworn I put it in my jacket pocket. Well it's seems I've misplaced it. It was rather incredible though. It could mimic just about any voice."

"Well perhaps it will show up. There's only so many places it could be. I should probably let you get back to work though. Your vigilance lets me sleep better." Celestia offered a soft chuckle.

"Of course. My apologies for bothering you. Good night Celestia." Twogami offered with a curt bow of his head.


10:47 P.M Day Thirteen

First Floor

Dormitories

"You really should lock your door Peko." Maki murmured as she stalked forward through the bedroom.

"As if that would keep the Ultimate Assassin out. Besides if someone were going to choose a victim, I doubt they'd target me first." The Swordswoman mused as she picked her glasses off the desk, before pushing them up the bridge of her nose. "What brings you here so late?"

The Assassin smirked deviously. "Well it's not for any kind of debauchery. I think we both made it clear, that was just blowing off steam. I was hoping that we could continue our sparing though. The Committee has made it difficult to do anything early in the morning or late at night."

"And yet it hasn't kept you from bypassing their patrols." Peko actually offered a thin smile. "There's not as much room here, but I suppose it will suffice. I'm sure you're getting rusty from only doing sit-ups and pushups with your friends. You ever going to tell them the truth?"

Harukawa sighed as she slipped into a fighting stance. "What good would it do? Even if some of them didn't turn their backs on me, the rest would never stop suspecting the worst of me. "

"Well they say ignorance is bliss. Though don't forget our captor enjoys watching us squirm. It might be better for the truth to come from you, then Monokuma." Pekoyama said as she shifted her feet slightly.

"Fine. You tell everyone that you're the Kuzuryu's body guard and hit woman and I'll tell everyone that I kill people for a living. I'm sure that'll go over swimmingly." Maki said in a sarcastic tone.

"Point taken. Shall we begin?" Peko asked as she quirked a brow.

"You don't have to ask twice." Maki replied as sprang forward.


11:01 P.M Day Thirteen

First Floor

Dormitories

Mukuro let out an exasperated sigh, as she suddenly sat up out of bed.

Her eyes fixated on the unopened present, that lay on her desk.

It was absolutely maddening.

As much as she'd tried to ignore it, she couldn't fall asleep. Not until she saw what kind of gift Saionji had left her.

She threw her legs over the side of the bed, before stalking towards the desk.

No doubt it was another taunt or some sort of blackmail. Though perhaps it was something more unassuming. From what she could tell most of the gifts seemed benign and innocent for the most part. Of course there was always the chance that something more insidious was involved.

The Soldier shook her head, as her fingers begin to tear at the wrapping paper.

She felt her stomach curl slightly, as something putrid assaulted her nose as her digits curled along the top of the box.

'What the hell is that?' she bit the inside of her cheek as she stilled her trembling hand, before suddenly wrenching the top of the box off.

Even with all of her experiences in war and taking life, the scene that she saw rocked her to the core.. She barely held back the heaving that caught in her throat, from the horrific sight that met her eyes.

She found herself starring into the vacant hollow eyes of the real Hiyoko Saionji.

Ikusuba dropped the box back on the table, and cringed at the sound of the head sloshing around in the box.

She pressed a hand against her mouth to stifle a scream. Her haunted gaze settled upon the inside of the box lid, that now lay strewn on the desk.

There written in a very crude pink script was a simple message.

"Guess Who?"


*AN*

If that ain't a cliffhanger, I don't know what is! Heh maybe I'm just getting...AHEAD of myself. ;)

P.S If Celestial Sky Dragon ever returns he's going to make me the next victim.

The Kobold Necromancer

I laughed so hard at the idea of Nagito starring into an empty box and being overjoyed by having hope in a box.

SuperedX

Belated Merry Christmas to you as well! I hope you enjoy what's to come.

Wintersmith23

I'll give you a little spoiler here. Not all the gifts are as important as others. Least not for a plot standpoint. The one for Fujisaki was just a nice suggestion that gives me a way of giving Fujisaki some other clothes lol.

Shiny Oshawott King

Oooh I'm excited to see how you're opinion shifts after you get into DV3

Never signing in

I usually pride myself in throwing curveballs. So here's hoping it lands accordingly.

Trygve11

I think you might be Junko incarnate. You usually have the darkest theories hehe.

Gatekeeper TAR

I'll be honest there are some legitimately important clues in the gifts, mixed with some that are red herrings or are utterly harmless.

ghostface4

I know that some people want to strangle me over the relationships, but hey it's my fic lol. I like the idea of those bonds being the driving force behind a lot of Hope and Despair in this world.

Zephyrius29

That's actually a very great point. Kyoko would be one of the few individuals who wouldn't leave thumbprints.

doomqwer

HOHOHO MERRY DESPAIR CHRISTMAS!