It was only hours before the picnic. The excitement for the activity was palpable throughout the whole building. It was clear that everyone was looking forward to it. People are doing their own preparations for the event. Some were doing their tasks while the others were happily helping in small ways they can.

Inside the kitchen were Asuka, Hana, Nao, Eri, and Takashiro. Out of the five, only Asuka and Nao were supposed to be inside the kitchen working on the food for the picnic. However, the two did not mind the company of the others. As the two were cooking, Hana would talk and make the people in the room laugh. Even though it was distracting, they did not mind it. They were just genuinely looking forward to the activity in the evening.

From time to time, Takashiro would something to their conversation that would make Hana more pumped up for the party. He would tell the group what might happen. He even described a scenario wherein they might hear Norio laugh again. That is how good they think the event will be.

While the four were busy talking to each other, Eri could not help herself but stare at them with awe. It was amazing for her to see her friends smile like there is no tomorrow. It was the happiest she has ever seen everyone for a long time. She looked at Nao and could not believe he was the same person who locked himself in his room. I must do my part to make this party amazing! I cannot let them down! Seeing their smiles energized her to do the best.

As the conversation continued, Hana saw Eri was brimming with excitement. She quickly teased her saying, "It looks like Eri is the most excited out of all of us! What are you expecting to happen? You have been so silent over there. Tell us!" Eri was surprised that she was now in the hot seat. It was clear she became flustered as she panicked to say something. She kept stuttering.

"Uhmmm… Uhmmm… I-I-I…" Eri could not say a single word.

Hana quickly took it back and said, "You are so adorable when you are flustered! That makes teasing you more fun!" Eri did not care if she was being teased by Hana. She was just happy to feel like she belonged to their group. It was like she finally found the group of friends she can trust and depend on.

The group continued talking. They moved on from teasing Eri and went back to talking about what they were hoping to see. The group was really loud as they laughed their hearts out. Eri loved the joy she was seeing and accidentally said, "I am happy to see you guys happy…" Thinking she was not heard, she continued fidgeting with her bear. However, she noticed that the group went silent. She looked at them who was looking at her. Slowly she asked, "I-I-Is there a p-p-problem?"

Hana quickly went to her and hugged her. Eri was surprised about it but she did not complain about it. It felt nice to be hugged by her friend. Hana let go of her and said, "You are such a cutie pie! The world needs more people like you! Don't ever change, okay? People like you must be protected." Eri blushed hearing all of those words. She meekly smiled at her while everyone looked at her with a smile.

After a few minutes, Asuka and Nao refocused themselves. They shifted their focus in preparing the food. Nao was in charge of the coffee drinks, the macaroons, and the tarts while Asuka was tasked to make the doughnuts and the sandwiches. Nao was finished making the macaroons and the tarts. All he had to do were the coffee drinks. On the other hand, Asuka was finished with the sandwiches and was just starting with the doughnuts.

Nao quickly told the group he will go to the pantry to find coffee powder. Asuka quickly told him to find yeast. It did not take him long to come back empty-handed. Nao said, "I could not find coffee or yeast." Hearing this puzzled Asuka. She told him, "Are you sure it is not there? I am pretty sure we have a lot of those two."

Asuka then went to the pantry and came back empty-handed as well. She could not believe both were missing. "I know we have yeast and coffee. I just checked the pantry last night after washing the dishes with Hana." She turned to Hana and said, "Didn't we found jars filled with both of it?" Hana confirmed it.

Nao quickly looked around the kitchen thinking it must have been misplaced. He looked around and was lucky enough to find both jars in the fridge. He took it out and let out a sigh of relief. "Thankfully, it was just here! It must have been placed here by Monokuma." Nao said. He gave the yeast to Asuka while he took the coffee to his station.

Hana sarcastically said, "Good thing you found it! I really wanted to drink coffee for tonight!"

"You really hate coffee." Nao said.

Hana simply nodded and said, "What is wrong with hating coffee? It is just not my thing. I like it sweet like ice cream and strawberries! Coffee is just bitter." The continued to have a back and forth on coffee. Nao was eager to convince Hana coffee is not just about bitterness. However, it was clear Hana will not listen to Nao until she tastes his drink.

As the two had a back and forth, Eri looked at the drinks he was preparing. It was appetizing and the aroma was splendid. Hearing all of Nao's claims about his drink, she craved for it. However, she knew she can't drink even a sip of it because she was allergic to it. She can't drink it because she might die from drinking it. I want to tell them I can't drink it but Nao might scrap the whole thing if he finds out about it. Seeing people excited about it, I can't bring myself to say anything. I will just bring a bottle of water for myself later.

Everyone continued happily talking. Eventually, the group was finished cooking. Asuka and Nao set the food aside until it was time to bring it. Hana said goodbye as well to prepare for the flow of the events. Seeing that the event is only an hour away, Eri and Takashiro decided to get on with their task as well.


Inside the garden were Eri and Takashiro preparing the place for their evening picnic. Eri was laying down the pink gingham fabric where they will be sitting. After doing so, Eri went over to Takshiro to help in fixing the platform where Asuka and Hana will perform on. He was fixing the speakers just like how Hana told him to do so. It was laborious but both of them did not mind. All they could think of is that their efforts are worth the fun they will have later.

After a few minutes, the two were done fixing everything. Quickly, they sat down on the fabric to take a quick rest. Eri had with her two bottles of water. She gave one to Takashiro who was more exhausted than her. Takashiro gladly took it and drank.

At first, it was quiet. Eri wanted to ask Takashiro about something but she could see that Takashiro was too tired to even talk. Because of this, she just waited until Takashiro looked comfortable enough to talk to her. As she waited, she looked at the place where they were staying and was amazed by the beauty of the garden. Even though it was her third time in the garden, it was the first time she really took the time to take it all in and appreciate it.

It is beautiful but I am more excited to see how it will look like later tonight. Hana said it was beautiful. I want to see it. If it is this beautiful during the daytime, then it must be more beautiful at night.

After a few more minutes, Takashiro was finally rested enough. He put the empty bottle beside him. He turned to Eri and said, "Is there something bothering you? You kept looking at me earlier as if you wanted to tell me something." Eri was not surprised that Takashiro saw through her. We have been together all the time. He must be used by my mannerisms by now.

Eri turned to him and said, "I-I-I was wondering about what you th-th-think of this…" Eri pulled out from her bear several red sticks. Takashiro looked at it and was clueless as to what he was looking at. He was not sure what to say and just looked at Eri with confusion. Eri immediately saw this and explained to him what it was supposed to be.

"I-I-I made sparklers l-l-last night. I-I-I thought it would b-b-be cute if we had s-s-some…" Eri said. Takashiro quickly smiled when he heard what it was. Seeing Takashiro's face, she knew he liked it. It made her happy to see someone like her idea. She gave a stick to Takashiro which Takashiro gladly took.

Eri said, "A-A-All you have to do is r-r-rip off the b-b-black end and it will i-i-instantly lit up." After that, Eri showed him how to do it. She ripped off the black end and the stick instantly lit up. Its sparks where pink. The two were mesmerized by the color. It was soothing to look at and it felt cool. It did not emit any prickly heat.

Seeing the beautiful sparks, Takashiro lit his stick. His stick was producing light violet sparks. It was as beautiful to look at as Eri's sparkler. Takashiro said, "This is amazing Eri! I am sure everyone will love this. This is a great addition to the activities later." Eri smiled as Takashiro continued to shower her with compliments.

After a few minutes, Eri blew both of the sparklers to put it out. She took what was left of the sparklers to dispose of it later. After that, the two just stayed there sitting waiting for time to pass by. It was silent but it was the kind of silence Eri wanted. It was not uncomfortable. It was the silence where she can just lie down and relax.

As she was lying down, Takashiro asked her, "Why did you not tell the group you were allergic to coffee?" Eri continued to look at the orange sky and simply answered, "All of th-th-them were excited to t-t-try Nao's drink. I-I-I couldn't bring m-m-myself to stop them."

Takashiro then said, "You should have said something. You should be able to enjoy all of the food as well. It is not fair to you." Eri understood Takashiro's concern. She knew she should have said something but it was more important for her to see everyone happy and enjoying. To her, her happiness is seeing her friends smile.

She sat up straight and turned to Takashiro. She looked at him straight in the eyes and said, "Everyone's smiles are enough to put a smile on my face." Takashiro was surprised to hear Eri speak smiling without stuttering. He pinched her cheeks and said, "You are too sweet for this world!"

As they were talking to each other, the garden started to transform. They stopped what they were doing watched as the garden transform beautifully. They felt like they were in a fairy tale. It was as if the garden came to life. The fireflies filled the place with their captivating lights. It was as if glitters were floating around.

One of the fireflies landed on Eri's bear. She looked at it and was interested in its design. This firefly looks like a toy I have made before. She grabbed one of the fireflies and examined its design. She recognized some of its parts like the head and the wings. This looks similar to a bigger firefly toy I have made before.

After a few minutes, Eri let go of the firefly. However, her attention was still hooked onto the fireflies. Moments passed when Takashiro stood up and said, "I think we should go back to our rooms and prepare." Takashiro held out his hand and helped Eri stand up. After that, the two went out of the garden and went to their rooms.


It was only minutes before the fun activity started. Eri was still in her room trying to fix herself. She was combing her hair. There were times she was trying to fix the wrinkles in her dress. She just wanted to look perfect for the night. She looked at her door and was excited to get out and have fun. Brimming with excitement, she opened the door.

As soon as she got out, she saw Norio going out of his room. She quickly ran to him to greet him. "Hello! A-A-Are you excited?" Eri gave him her biggest smile. She wanted to make him feel the excitement she was feeling. To her, it felt like she could jump around without a care in the world. However, she looked at Norio who was not obviously feeling the same thing.

Norio had a problem and it was visible in his expression. Something in his mind was bothering him and Eri wanted to do something about it. She wanted Norio to have fun because that is what they are supposed to do right now. They should be having fun free of worries and full of happiness. She asked Norio, "What's th-th-the problem?"

He was silent. The two stood in the middle of the hallway. Eri was waiting for him to answer. No matter how long Eri waited, it seemed that Norio did not care to say anything. He was only looking at the floor mentally absent. The sight of this was troubling. Eri grabbed Norio's sleeve and shook his arm. "A-A-Are you okay?"

Suddenly, Norio shouted, "Not now, Eri! Not now!" Eri was surprised by his lashing out. She took a step back looking at Norio. She could not say a thing. All she could do was stay and wait for Norio to cool down. This response alarmed her. Something must have happened. I need to help him. Eri did not back down. She fixed her posture and said, "Norio, I-I-I can help."

Norio looked at her. Then, he took deep breaths and said, "I am sorry. I should not have shouted at you."

"I-I-It's alright. What is the p-p-problem?" Eri asked.

Hesitantly, Norio answered, "I just… I just saw something…"

Eri was surprised by this. She was intrigued by what Norio could have possibly seen. She continued and asked, "What d-d-did you see?" Norio took a long time to say anything. Eri just stared at him waiting for him to say something. However, it was clear Norio was unsure of it as well. It must be something unexpected. Norio could not even form a word. Norio was about to answer when, suddenly, a door opened.

Takashiro came out of his room. He went to the two and said, "Hi! Are you guys ready? This is going to be so much fun!" After that, he dragged Eri with him. Norio simply followed. Eri looked back at Norio with curiosity. I guess I will just ask him after the party. The three went to the garden together. In no time, they finally joined the group.

Everyone was already there. Samuru was talking to Nao while Asuka was helping Hana with the program. Immediately, Takashiro went to Nao and brought Eri with him. The two sat down beside Nao. Takashiro was the first to speak, "Hi! I am so excited!"

Samuru added, "Me too! I think this is the first time we will have a real party." Hearing that, Eri remembered their first party which was when Ayumu died. This brought back the sadness that she felt when she saw Ayumu hanging from the ceiling. This party will be different. This time everyone will truly have fun. No one will be afraid of what will come next. It will be just us having fun!

Eri then joined the conversation and said, "I-I-I am excited! Uhmmm… I made something f-f-for the party." She put out the sparklers and gave everyone two sticks. She explained how it works. Hana was happy to see this and said, "We should use this when we're performing later." Eri could imagine the place lit up by her sparklers while everyone listens to Hana and Asuka.

Hana stood up and said, "I think we should start!" Hana went to the platform and said, "Good evening everyone! Are you excited about tonight?" Everyone cheered with excitement. Everyone shouted with joy as they started their picnic. Eri was happy to see everyone so lively. It was almost perfect when she saw Norio silently looking at Hana. He is not having as much fun as everyone else.

Eri wanted to go to him and ask him what she can do to help him with his problem. However, she knew she couldn't especially where everyone can see and hear them. All she could do is hope for the picnic to lighten up Norio's mood. She shifted her focus to Hana who was going to start their fun picnic.

"Okay, the first thing we will do is play some games! I know it has been so stressful that we have forgotten to loosen up so let's play!" Everyone cheered. Asuka put out a pack of cookies and gave it to Hana. Everyone was curious about it. What are the cookies for?

"For our first game, we will be using these cookies. Everyone will be joining." Hana said. Hana told everyone to sit in a straight line. Everyone followed accordingly. Eri was in the middle of Nao and Takashiro. She was excited to know what the game was. When they were all lined up, Hana continued explaining.

"I will give each of you one cookie. You guys have to place it onto your forehead. To win, you have to be the first to move your cookie from your forehead into your mouth. The only thing you can use to move it is your face. Got it?" Everyone understood it. Some people were proclaiming their victory.

"I will definitely win this game!" Asuka shouted.

Takashiro chuckled and said, "I doubt it."

Asuka heard this and said, "You think you are going to win?"

Takashiro answered with confidence, "Yes!"

Asuka then said, "Bring it on!"

Hana then said, "Okay, put the cookie on your forehead. On your mark, get set, go!" After that everyone desperately tried to move the cookie except for Norio. Norio was just looking at the sky with a cookie on his forehead. Hana approached him and said, "You are not going to try?"

Norio answered, "I'd rather see their struggles than win."

Hana sighed and said, "I thought I would finally see you make weird faces but I guess not." Norio took the cookie from his forehead and ate it. After that, he turned to everyone else who was desperately trying to win.

Out of everyone, Asuka was trying the most. She was making the funniest face as she made the weirdest noises. "Ugh! Move! Cookie, just fucking move!" Asuka screamed. Samuru was moving his face minimally. He was trying but it was clear he will never be able to move it. It was pure mayhem. Hana was laughing herself to tears as she watched everyone move their faces. At one point, Hana shouted, "Roxanne looks like a chimpanzee!"

Eventually, someone won the game. Eri stood up with the cookie in her mouth. Then, Hana grabbed her hand, raised it and said, "We have a winner!" Eri could not believe she won the game. She took the cookie and ate it. Everyone clapped for her.

Takashiro said, "Good job, Eri!"

Asuka said, "I was so close! Eri had an advantage because she had a small face. I demand a rematch."

Hana went to Asuka and said, "Let it go! It is just the first game."

Asuka pouted and said, "Fine!"

After that, the fun continued. They played several games until everyone was exhausted. Everyone, except for Norio, tried their hardest to win a game. Out of everyone, it was only Asuka who did not win any game. She was upset by this. "I did not win any game! How? Even Norio won a game! I guess I have the worst luck today."

Nao said, "Cheer up Roxanne! Losing is not that big of a deal. It is just a game."

Asuka smiled and said, "I know! I just wanted to win. Whatever! When we have another party like this, I will definitely every game." After that, Hana called Asuka to the platform. It was time for them to perform their songs. Everyone was excited to hear their songs since every time they have teamed up, the songs they create are amazing.

Hana is sitting behind a keyboard and her synthesizer while Asuka had her guitar behind the microphone. It looks like Asuka will be singing! I can't wait to hear their music. Asuka was the first to say something. "Hello, guys! So far, are you having fun?" Everyone cheered.

"That's good to hear! Now, let's keep that energy going with this first song." Asuka started playing her guitar. Then, Hana followed with her keyboard and synthesizer. It was lively and energetic. It was good music to jump around. However, Eri felt like she has heard of the song before. All of a sudden, she remembered who she heard it from first. That is one of Umeko's songs. It was her group who originally sang it.

The duo continued playing their hearts out. Everyone who knew the song sang along. Surprisingly, Takashiro knew all of the words. Even though he was out of tune, he kept singing. Hearing him sing made Eri laugh. Takashiro does not care. Eri continued listening and watching. Before she knew it, it was over.

Asuka said, "That song was 'Jump!' by Pink Punk." Everyone went silent. It was clear everyone knew it was Umeko's song. Eri looked at Nao. She saw Nao smiling as he held in his hand Umeko's necklace. She was relieved to see his smile. It ensured her that Nao was in a better place compared to the last few days.

Asuka continued, "We just wanted to sing a song in memory of her. She was a great friend and person to perform with. Now, enough with that. Let's continue having fun!" Asuka played a ridiculously complicated riff. Everyone was surprised. Suddenly, strong beats appeared. It was electrifying. Eri could not do anything but listen at awe. It was not her type of music but she cannot deny the beauty of it and the captivating performance of the two.

The two continued to play numerous songs. All of them were songs they never had heard of. They were for sure music the two written just for the party. Eri was amazed by the talent of the two women. They are having the time of their lives. I am so happy to see them smile like that.

Eventually, the two were about to perform their last song. Before performing it, Asuka said, "This last song we need you to put out your sparkler and wave it in the air. Come on! Do it!" Everyone put out their sparkler and lit it up. Then, Asuka played a slow melody. It was something unexpected of her to sing something like that.

It was soothing to hear. Her voice was unexpectedly calm. It was full of emotions. Eri listened carefully to the lyrics and was amazed by it. It was about them and their friendship with each other. She loved the message and she is not the only one. Everyone looked at each other and gave their biggest smile.

Eri looked at Norio who was looking at Asuka and Hana. Suddenly, Norio turned to her. Eri simply smiled. Unexpectedly, Norio smiled back at her. It made her even happier. It was the right song for what they were going through right now. As the song ended, everyone cheered for Asuka and Hana.

After the performance, Asuka and Hana got off the platform and joined the group. Hana said, "I think it is time to talk about how we are feeling right now." Hana told the group it was time for the open forum. She instructed the group to create a circle. She and Asuka inserted themselves between Eri and Nao.

Eri was looking forward to this. She wanted to know everyone's true feelings. She believes that it will help her be a better friend to them. It will tell her what she should do for them. She wanted to know if she is needed as a support system, a listener, a shoulder to cry on, or anything she can help as.

"Everyone is open to talking about anything they want. This is the time to tell everyone how they truly feel. I think I am going first." Hana said. She took a deep breath before continuing.

"Uhmmm… Even though it has happened a long time already, I am still hung up with Ayumu's death. I really loved hanging out with him. I know some of you probably think I am in love with him but I know I am not. He was only this special friend who made me feel like I can do anything I want. I still miss him up to this day."

Asuka hugged her after that. Hana turned to her said, "Thanks! Didn't expect you to hug me but thanks!"

Hana turned to Nao and said, "I can understand how you feel. If you need someone to talk to about Umeko, I am here for you."

Nao smiled and said, "Thank you!"

Then, Hana turned to Asuka. "That is pretty everything I have to say. Roxanne, it is your turn!"

Asuka was surprised. "Me? Why can't it be Eri?" Hana just looked at her. In the end, Asuka gave in.

Asuka started, "I don't really know what to share. I got nothing to hide. I am an open book. I don't even have a fucking filter." After that, Asuka thought about it. Eventually, all she said was, "All I could think of is say thanks for being understanding of me. I know I can be too much and I am not the easiest person to deal with. So, thank you for staying with me despite my fucking flaws."

After that, it was Nao's turn. It took a while for Nao to speak. "I am sorry for being a douche in the past few days. I really am. And, thank you for giving me another chance to prove myself. It has been rough since I lost Umeko. I felt so alone. I have been always with her that, now she is gone, I am lost. I don't know where to go or who to talk to."

Asuka quickly interrupted and said, "You still have us! You can talk to us about anything you want!"

Nao smiled and said, "I know. Norio reminded me of that." He turned to Norio and said, "Thanks for telling me what I needed to hear."

Norio simply nodded. Nao then turned to Samuru who was beside him. Samuru understood it was his turn. He took a deep breath and started, "I feel like I am responsible for Mako and Umeko's deaths. It was me who was in the picture killing Umeko's mom but I don't remember doing it at all. But still, I can't help but feel guilty. I know some of you still have reservations about me and I can't blame you. It was clear in the picture and my reputation for being a crazy executioner does not help clear my name. I hope you guys can see that I am trustworthy and I would never do that."

Nao put his hand on Samuru's shoulder and said, "We trust you, Samuru. No one here is blaming you for their deaths." Samuru smiled because of the comforting words of Nao.

After that, everyone turned to Norio. It was his turn. It was clear that everyone is interested in what Norio will share. Eri is curious what side Norio she will see tonight. She knew Norio has secrets and she was wondering what secret will he share. She even thought he might bring up what he was bothered about before coming to the picnic.

Everyone silent as they waited for Norio to speak. Norio kept them waiting for a few more seconds before speaking. "I am human. I have feelings but I am not good at showing them. Because of that, Hana loves to make fun of me for that." Hana chuckled after hearing that.

Norio continued, "I just want to say that I think of everyone here as…" Norio could not continue. He was blushing. He could not look at anyone. All he could do was look away and say softly, "my friends…"

Everyone cannot believe what they heard. Almost all of them have their jaws on the floor. Hana was smirking looking like she was ready to tease him again. She quickly said, "What did you say? I did not hear you."

Norio quickly said, "No!"

Asuka said, "He said we are his friends."

The two ladies burst into laughter. Takashiro put his arm around Norio and said, "That was great to hear, friend!" This just made the two girls laugh harder. Eri looked at everyone and was amazed by the variety of reactions Norio was receiving. She turned to Norio who was silent and could not look at anyone in the eye.

Norio then said, "W-W-Why are you l-l-laughing?"

Takashiro replied with, "Why did you turn into Eri?"

Norio said, "For the first time, I was honest about how I feel and this is what I get."

Asuka and Hana slowly stopped themselves from laughing. Hana then said, "Sorry for laughing at you. I just did not expect that. Now that you have acknowledged us as your friends, turn to us for help. Don't carry all of your burdens by yourself, okay?"

Norio simply nodded. Eri knew that was a lie. To her, Norio is the type of friend who will never bother to ask for help because they don't want to give other people their burden. Eri looked at Norio and wished that he would do it. I hope he asks for help when he needs it.

After that, it was Takashiro's turn. It did not take a while for Takashiro to start. Everyone surprised since they thought he would have a hard time opening up. "I know I get on some people's nerves. Some of you think I am too childish for my age. I just want to say I am sorry. I can be mature when I want to. It is just hard for me to show that I am mature because, for so many years, I have been painted as a weirdo for being a mature guy doing puppets. I have built this wall of me being a kid at heart so that I will not be as disrespected as I was before. I just want to be respected for what I do. I have shown this side of me to some of you and I hope you give me a chance to show it to everyone."

Quickly, Takashiro said, "It's your turn, Eri!"

Eri was surprised by this. She was not yet ready. Her mind went blank. All she could do was look at everyone. She tried to remember what she wanted to say. However, the more she struggled to remember, the more she forgot her words. Instead of struggling to find the words, she looked at the ground and decided to say whatever comes to her mind.

"Y-Y-You guys are m-m-my first real friends. I-I-I was always alone and I-I-I hated it. I want t-t-to have friends b-b-but it was so hard f-f-for me to make one. P-P-People never bothered t-t-to listen to me because I stutter. Some did but only b-b-because of my wealthy family. I love making t-t-toys because I always thought i-i-it would be fun to have people p-p-play it with me. B-b-but, I never had anyone to p-p-play it with. Now that I-I-I have you guys, I want to continue m-m-making more toys so that I-I-I could play with you guys. I-I-I want to be a good friend t-t-to everyone and I will d-d-do whatever it t-t-takes to be that."

When she stopped, she could hear people sobbing. She looked at everyone and saw Asuka, Hana, and Takashiro teary-eyed. Suddenly, Asuka went to her and hugged her. Asuka hugged her tightly and said, "I want to play with you too! You are such a sweet friend. To those people who did not bother to listen to you, fuck them! You got us now!"

Eri was speechless when she heard this. She let go of her bear and hugged Asuka back. All of a sudden, tears went rushing down her cheeks. As she was hugging Asuka she said, "I love you guys!"

Asuka replied, "You are making me want to hug you more!"

Then, Hana added, "I want to hug you too!" Hana then joined Asuka in hugging Eri.

Takashiro tearily shouted, "Group hug!" One by one they joined hugging Eri. Eri was overwhelmed by the love she was receiving from her friends. She did not expect what she said would move them so much. Eri tried to see who was hugging her. Then, she could not find Norio. She looked for Norio and saw him sitting near her. She reached out her hand. Slowly, Norio grabbed it joined them.

Nao shouted, "After we get out of here, let's stay friends!"

After a few seconds, everyone let go of the hugging. Hana jokingly said, "All of that hugging made me hungry! Let's eat!" Asuka and Nao put out the basket of treats they prepared. Everyone grabbed one of each treat. Eri loved the doughnuts and the macaroons the most. Hana was munching mostly on the strawberry tarts. Nao, Norio, and Samuru were eating mostly sandwiches. Asuka and Takashiro ate only one of each.

After some time, Nao distributed his coffee drink to everyone. He gave Hana the first drink. "Drink it! I want to see your reaction!" Nao said as he handed her the coffee drink. Hana was hesitant at first. However, she eventually took a sip. It was obvious she was surprised by how it tasted. "It is not overly bitter. It is sweet as well."

Nao said, "I knew some of you don't like the bitter taste of coffee so I decided to balance it out with sweetness. I hope you guys will like it." Nao continued distributing it until Eri is the only one who has not been given yet. Nao handed her the drink but she declined it.

Nao asked, "Why? You hate coffee as well? Don't worry! It is not bitter."

Eri answered, "I-I-I'm sure it t-t-tastes great. I want t-t-to take a s-s-sip but I am allergic t-t-to coffee."

Nao said, "Why didn't you tell me? I could have made you another drink."

Eri replied, "It's alright! I-I-I have a b-b-bottle of water with me."

Then, Nao said, "I guess there is more for me!"

The group continued eating and talking to each other. Hana would make everyone crack up. Asuka is usually the main target of Hana's jokes. Takashiro bravely picked on Samuru. Seeing everyone happy really made it the perfect night for Eri. It was what she hoped for and more. She does not want anything to happen to this perfect night.

When Asuka was defending herself from Hana, Eri felt like her throat was itchy. At first, she thought something bit her. She scratched her neck and there were no bite marks. Instantly, she realized the itch was coming from inside her throat. A few more minutes, she started coughing. At first, her coughs sounded harmless and random. She would stop but then she would cough. Her coughs were getting worse and worse.

Takashiro took notice of this and asked, "Are you alright?"

Eri said, "Yeah! I-I-I just need to drink s-s-some water." She grabbed her bottle of water and saw it was empty.

Then, she stood up and said, "I-I-I'm going to get some water. D-D-Does anyone wants me to bring them one?" Asuka and Hana said they wanted one. Before she could take another step, she coughed again. Why am I coughing?

As she was walking, everything suddenly started spinning. She could not comprehend what was happening. It was too much for. All of a sudden, all she could see was darkness.

A few inches away from the group, Eri has collapsed on the floor.


That is it for now! I hope you enjoyed it!

No one is dead yet but Eri has fainted. In the next update, someone will be dead. Who do you think will bite the dust next? Tell me by voting on the poll on my profile!

If you want to talk about this story and other stuff, you can join the discord server for this story. The link is on my profile.

Anyway, that is it for now!

Good luck to all of us!