Never Say Never

Disclaimer: I do not own Danganronpa or the characters associated with it.

Chapter 1

Act 4

Mukuro knew that there was absolutely no time to waste. She had to find Makoto before nighttime came. If she waited any longer, she might lose the resolve to…kill him.

The instant she thought that, her body felt heavy but she forced it to advance. Her legs felt as though they were made of lead as she practically stomped toward the dorms. She had to keep moving, keep focused on her task without wavering. She pushed aside any inklings of emotional thought as she resolved herself to do what her sister had requested—No, demanded of her.

"This is a battlefield," she repeated over and over in her head like a mantra, "I am a soldier…and I will carry out my duty. Kill or be killed."

Her emotions had almost completely shut down, anything that could distract her from her mission was buried deep within, not allowed to resurface until her task was complete. And with heavy steps, she continued to search for Mako—her target.

She knew he ran off after Sayaka and worried she would find them together, which would make her task more complicated. Almost on cue, as the disguised Mukuro passed through the door leading to the dorms, she spotted an obviously distressed Sayaka heading into the cafeteria, alone.

The Ultimate Pop Sensation was a mess but at least she seemed to have calmed herself.

"No doubt due to Makoto's influence—"

Mukuro abruptly slapped herself across the face, forcing away any thoughts concerning her target. If she let those emotions back in now, they would jeopardize her entire mission. And she would not fail Junko…not this time!

Realizing this was the perfect time to strike, Mukuro almost broke out into a run as she headed for Makoto's room. There was no guarantee that he had returned to his room but the soldier's keen instincts were not to be doubted. It was the most likely place to find the target and sure enough, she found his door slightly ajar, meaning he'd only just returned. After only knocking on his door once, she heard his voice call from within.

"I-I'm coming! Just a second!"

In almost any other situation, Mukuro would have scoffed and questioned why he didn't even bother to ask who had come to see him. But then again, Makoto's optimistic nature is what made him so special to begin with—

Mukuro dug her fake red nails harshly into her palms, the skin barely able to keep from being torn.

"You're not this weak! This is just another mission! When he opens the door, move in and—!"

Before she could finish that thought, the door swung open and Mukuro's eyes widened at what she saw.

Makoto, whose voice a moment ago was strong and confident, looked exactly the opposite as he stared back at her. His hair was disheveled, possibly from pressing it into his pillow and despite the pleasant smile on his face, he couldn't hide unease that radiated off him in waves. And even more distracting…was the fact that his eyes were strained and red, his face moist from what she only assumed were fresh tears.

In that moment, the Ultimate Soldier lost all will to kill, her emotions flooding in and taking over her judgment.

"I can't…I…I just…I know I have to…but I can't!"

Her entire body was frozen in place as Makoto continued to gently smile at her from just inside his room. He looked at her expectantly, obviously wondering why he'd been called out. Mukuro knew she needed to say something but the words failed her…all she could do was stare at the warm, yet fragile smile.

"Uh…is there something you need Junko?" Makoto finally worked up the nerve to ask, still very much surprised by her sudden appearance. His careful words snapped the disguised woman to her senses and she averted her gaze before huffing.

"I-It's nothing really. I just…I wanted to say…uh, that…" she trailed off, desperately trying to come up with an excuse. And just as she was about to be overcome with embarrassment, she suddenly recalled their altercation yesterday. "I-I wanted to apologize for being such a jerk yesterday in the laundry room! So there! My bad!"

Without another word, she turned on a heel and headed directly for her room, which was thankfully only a few feet away. However, before she managed to reach the handle of her door, a hand suddenly gripped her arm and she spun around, ready to attack as always. But once again, she forced her reflexes to stop as, like she had expected, Makoto was now grasping her arm.

"W-What?! I already told you I was sorry! What more do you want?!" she protested, jerking her arm away and doing her best to appear angry.

However, she felt the heat rising in her cheeks and knew her face was flushed. She was about to tell him off again and disappear into her room when she saw him casually wipe away the last hints of moisture from his eyes, a bright smile overtaking his face as he looked at her.

"S-Sorry, I just wanted to say, thanks for worrying about me," he said to her, continuing to smile warmly. If he had left it at that, Mukuro could have shrugged it off and departed, but he had to let his smile widen and finish, "And if you ever need someone to talk to or just want to hang out, I'm just right across the hall."

He ended his comment with his typical nervous laugh, probably thinking he sounded pretty stupid, telling an ultra famous model that he'd be there if she needed him. But it wasn't stupid and it wasn't unappreciated at all…at least not to Mukuro.

In fact, for a faction of a second, she completely lost herself in the warmth and vibrancy of Makoto's smile and though many warning signals fired off in her brain, she couldn't stop herself from reciprocating.

As her lips upturned, returning his sweet gesture, she felt her mind ease for the first time since the killing game began and she couldn't stop herself as she replied, "Thanks, Makoto. If I do decide to kill someone, I promise that it won't be you…"

The instant those words were uttered, the atmosphere between them completely changed…but for entirely different reasons.

Makoto immediately lost that mesmerizing smile and was instantly on guard, which was completely understandable. Mukuro was brought back to her situation and realized she had just promised the exact opposite of what she knew needed to be done.

"D-Don't say scary stuff like that!" Makoto blurted out, obviously put off and wary of her now.

Knowing that her options were limited, Mukuro decided that the best way to resolve this situation…was by playing her part. Letting a mischievous grin spread over her features, she held up her hand in a peace sign and gave a cheeky laugh.

"Oh don't freak out! I was only kidding! Geez, you need to lighten up a little."

Hearing her words, Makoto slightly tilted his head in confusion, unsure if she was being honest or not. His perplexed visage offered her the perfect opportunity to flee, and so she spun around, pulled her door open and proceeded inside.

Sayaka quickly exited the cafeteria, the large kitchen knife nestled carefully against her stomach. She barely even noticed Sakura and Hina eyeing her as she left. Her heart was pounding and her mind was racing. She practically stumbled down the hallway back toward her room, knowing she would need to come up with a convincing story before heading to Makoto's room. A part of her even questioned why she needed to fabricate a story for him to swallow…

"He'll let me in…I know he will…he'll believe anything I tell him…"

Even so, she didn't have the courage to head straight for his room, even if there was absolutely no one in the hallway to witness her going to his room. She didn't want to take that chance, she had to make sure there were no mistakes…when she turned on him.

"This is my only chance…he's the only one…who'd let me get close enough…to…to…to kill!"

Quickly shutting the door behind her, she pressed her back against the door, fearing that he might actually try to follow after her.

"Dammit…Dammit!"

Her chest heaving and her heart beating furiously against her ribcage, the Ultimate Soldier waited to see what would happen next. To her relief, Makoto seemed to have gotten the hint and didn't pursue her once she entered her own room. However, she could still feel her face was flushed and sweat soaked into the pink wig covering her head.

She didn't know how long she stood there, back pressed against that door as she regained her breath. However, after she felt her breathing stabilize, something unexplainable happened…she got angry.

Gritting her teeth tightly, she felt a low growl work its way out of her throat. In a matter of moments, it grew louder and louder until she found herself screaming in frustration!

"HRRRRAAAAHHHHH!"

Her hand shot up to her wig and she furiously ripped it from her head, the pins underneath that held it in place flying in all directions. With no hesitation, she flung the moistened wig across the room, the pink fluff smacking into the wall with a wet thud. Running both hands through her slick black hair, Mukuro fought to bring herself under control when a familiar voice called out.

"My, my, my, this is unexpected. I never imagined you'd get so frustrated over such a simple task."

The Ultimate Soldier froze as the voice of her sister rang out and she snapped her head up to see Monokuma sitting on her bed, acting as a go between for the twin sisters. Strangely, the bear wasn't keeping itself occupied with anything, merely sitting there calmly and staring at her.

Unfortunately, this meant that Junko had been waiting for her to return, and patiently it would seem. That alone was foreboding but the fact that her sister was questioning her made it all the more terrifying.

Mukuro's mouth hung open, lips quivering as she tried to form words that wouldn't come. She'd been caught and there was no escaping it.

She had no explanation for her sudden burst of anger, or at least none that Junko would accept without losing faith in her. It wasn't so easy to say, 'The boy was crying so I couldn't kill him', when she'd done the same to many of her targets in the past. Never mind that Junko would only grow suspicious of her for such a failing to complete a task that should have been done by now.

After all, Mukuro never showed mercy to her enemies, even if they had cried and begged for their lives, she still ended them without any hesitation. And yet, a single boy's smile had stopped her cold before she even had a chance to get close to him. It proved one thing at the very least.

Whether he knew it or not, Makoto had influence over his fellow students.

"Perhaps that's why Junko wanted him dead to begin with…" Mukuro quickly thought as she continued to try and explain herself.

However, before she managed to get even a syllable out, the black paw of Monokuma raised itself up in a gesture of silencing her. A heavy sigh came out of the bear as Junko spoke through the plush toy.

"You know, I figured that your little crush on Makoto would make you hesitate. But I never imagined it would paralyze you and keep you from fulfilling your duty."

Rather than be shocked, Mukuro gritted her teeth in frustrated embarrassment. It was no surprise that Junko knew of her attraction to Makoto. They were sisters after all, and there were things that were obvious even if neither of them said a single word. Even so, it didn't stop the soldier from feeling even more helpless and weak at that moment.

Gathering her courage, Mukuro lifted her gaze, glared at the bear and replied, "I'll admit, he caught me off guard…and I failed this time. However—".

"No need to defend yourself. I'm glad you didn't kill him."

The Ultimate Soldier froze as her sister's words invaded her ears. Surprise warped her features and she could only stare at the bear that resounded with her sister's voice as it continued.

"You were just rushing to get it over with. Even if you had killed him, there would have been no way for you to cover it up. Sure, you would have thought of something but I doubt it would have ended well for you. And I'm sorry but if you get voted for in a class trial…I can't save you."

"W-Wait…what?" Mukuro managed to choke out, her face blanching. "You…You mean that…"

Before she could finish, Monokuma leapt off the bed and promptly landed on the floor before tilting its head quizzically at the soldier.

"Did you think you were exempt from the class trial? Did you really plan to kill Makoto without even taking the time to think of a way to cover it up?" Junko asked, her voice disappointed yet entirely serious.

Her sister's cold tone sent chills down her spine and it took Mukuro a moment to realize that Junko had just confirmed her worst fear.

"H-Hold on!" the Ultimate Soldier desperately pleaded, fearful and confused. "What about our failsafe?! I thought that we initiated it so that when the first trial happens, I would get pulled from the game and not be punished if our classmates make the wrong choice!"

Monokuma gave a light shrug as Junko's voice continued, "That's only the case if you aren't the first killer. I mean, it would be incredibly unfair of us to make them go through a class trial without the culprit present!"

Mukuro suddenly felt faint as her mind began spinning, unable to comprehend this new turn of events. Her shoulder pressed into the wall next to her, keeping her upright as she felt all of her strength fade. Her blue eyes dilated slightly she took slow breaths, the only form of coping she could muster.

"So then…you're saying that if I kill someone—".

"In this case, Makoto!" her sister chirped.

Grunting slightly, Mukuro continued, "—then I have to play the game. Become the blackened and try to escape at the cost of our classmates lives…"

"Well, yeah! That's how the game works! I mean, I thought that the reason you stopped yourself was because you realized that and wanted to wait for a better opportunity…was I wrong?"

Even though Junko said it so innocently, the soldier could feel the skepticism in her sister's voice, mocking her for not realizing what should have been obvious. And because of that, anger rose up in Mukuro as she pushed off the wall to stand up straight, her eyes narrowing at the bear.

"Why did you give me a time limit then?! If you knew I needed to play the game accordingly, you shouldn't have forced me to plan a murder in only a day!" she fired back, letting her rage consumer her judgment.

"Because Makoto is the easiest to pick off," Junko reasoned, her voice already tired of having to explain. "He'd go along with anyone who asked him to meet anywhere! He's sooooo trusting and its sooooo lame! Hell, anyone could do it at this point! Even with so little time to plan!"

An involuntary flinch seized Mukuro as the subtle jab for her hesitation sunk in. In reality, the reason she had lashed out wasn't exactly clear to her.

"Even so, I'm just a soldier. I'm not used to planning out murders or even executing them. I take the lives of others…that's been my purpose." She paused for a moment before taking a deep breath and finishing, "But it's different here. With all of my classmates surrounding us and some of them growing suspicious of others, it's becoming a less than ideal battlefield."

There was a heavy silence for a moment as Mukuro considered her own words.

She felt weakened here, restrained even. On a true battlefield, one fought for their life and those who survived were the one able to adapt and learn how to kill the enemy. But, unlike the battlefield, this school was a place of deception and secrecy. One couldn't simply pull a knife to defend themselves without fear of facing a class trial, though her fellow students were unaware of that as of yet.

Moreover, this place lacked something that Mukuro desperately needed…Challenge!

In war, she thrived on the feeling of hunting her enemies, fighting them to the bitter end only to emerge victorious and claim their lives as her trophies. For her, there was no greater feeling than battling a worthy adversary, discovering their weaknesses and exploiting them to achieve victory.

The struggle to survive…that is what made Mukuro feel the most alive! She didn't care about the outcome or the despair that the struggle brought…only that fight for survival that she had never failed to achieve. If anything, the struggle for survival was more intoxicating than even the greatest despair that Junko so loved.

That is what made Mukuro Ikusaba feel as though she had something to live for. Even now, she was fighting a losing battle for Junko's affections, and the struggle for it was almost as intoxicating as the prize itself. That and only that made her feel the euphoric pleasure that Junko derived from despair!

"I have to earn my sister's affection. Otherwise it's completely meaningless!" Mukuro quietly reminded herself, her body heating up just thinking about it.

Reminding herself of that resolve, she slowly turned to glance at Monokuma and to her utter shock, she saw that the demented bear was now glaring furiously at her. Taken back by the sudden change in attitude, she found herself speechless as the bear shook its head and Junko's voice sighed through it.

"My dear sister …Why do you insist on referring to those pathetic bastards as 'classmates'? Hmm?"

It was only for an instant, but as she said those words, Mukuro's eyes slightly widened before quickly hiding her surprise. However, the camera lens in Monokuma's eyes captured the whole affair and though her sister would never know it, Junko scowled fearsomely at the display.

"I know that neither you nor I hold any particular hatred for them, but addressing them as if they are equals seems…unbecoming, if you get my meaning."

Despite how much she tried not to, humiliation began to well up inside Mukuro at her sister's pin-point accusation.

It wasn't until now that the Ultimate Soldier realized that she had been holding onto the thought of how her classmates had been before their minds were wiped. She didn't see them as the strangers they saw her as. And even if she didn't say it, she also couldn't see them as anything less than Class 78, her fellow students that she had spent so much time with.

However, she quickly realized that that particular way of thinking was dangerous. They were no longer her classmates or friends or even acquaintances!

They were her targets.

When she had been in Fenrir, the concept of anyone being a target had been simple and clear. A target was not a person or group of people; they were creatures that had to be put down for the sake of the cause, whatever cause they had been paid to fight for at the time. And Mukuro had never failed to achieve the mission she and her mercenary companions were given.

This time, however, the cause she and her sister fought for was despair. And no matter who these young men and women were to either of them in the past was immaterial. That should have been obvious and all this time she had thought she understood that.

However, the realization that she hadn't been seeing her classmates as targets was not only unwelcome, it was an embarrassment. If Junko hadn't of pointed it out…she wasn't sure if she would have ever realized it.

Standing there, frozen in place and teetering on the brink of despair, Mukuro suddenly heard her sister call out to her.

"Mukuro…if it's all too much for you, I can pull you from the game."

An audible gasp escaped the soldier's mouth as she snapped her head back to the half and half bear. For a fraction of a second, Mukuro allowed herself to feel relieved but she quickly realized that feeling as such was beyond foolish.

"This is another of Junko's tests!" she furiously thought, her features slowly transforming and hardening with resolve. "I have been enough of a disappointment...for the both of us! So, if it's for Junko then…then…"

In the midst of her thoughts, Junko's voice resounded from the bear again, "We'd have to do it in front of the other students but it's certainly doable. So, if you think you can't handle—".

"I'll stay."

Junko's voice abruptly ceased and the bear's eyes shot over to see Mukuro glaring at it fiercely. Her sky blue hues were even more dangerous than usual and the hint of despair lying in them was enough to entrance Junko long enough for her sister to finish.

"I'll finish my task. I…won't disappoint you."

The shock and hesitation from a moment ago had vanished as she spoke, clearly surprising her sister with such a determined statement. And even though she couldn't see her sister's face, it was obvious that Junko hadn't been expecting her to refuse so adamantly. After all, the choice was meant to bring despair, not resolution.

However, if it did bother Junko, her voice showed no hint of it as the bear shrugged and said for her, "Do whatever you want then. Just remember that you've only got about 18 hours left before—".

"I'm aware of that…" Mukuro cut her off, walking past the bear and toward her closet.

Pulling it open, her eyes brightened as an array of assorted military weapons glimmered on the walls and doors of the wooden closet. Knives of all shapes and sizes, hand-guns and magnums galore, even larger grade projectile launchers were carefully stowed within. All at once a wave of euphoria struck her as she felt the anticipation of the struggle to come.

Deep down, a part of her reeled in disgust at this feeling, knowing that it would come at the cost of a life. The life of a boy whom had smiled at her like no other.

"Makoto…"

In an instant, the euphoric feeling faded as she shook her head and narrowed her gaze. Any one of these deadly weapons would be enough to send the boy to the next life, and with her disguise, no one would suspect her as the culprit. Even if they did, she knew the proper way to dispose of each and every weapon in her arsenal.

However, she wasn't here for any of them, save for a small metal box tucked away in the back. Tugging it out from its hiding place, Mukuro carefully undid the clasps on either side before slowly opening it.

Inside, a long combat knife sat pristinely in the indent. What would have been the blunt edge on the opposite side had a row of jagged edges, almost making it a double sided blade. Dull scratches and markings littered the side of the blade and the handle seemed worn and ready to crack.

Picking up the knife and glaring at the sharpened edge, Mukuro barely ran her finger along the cutting edge of the blade. Pulling her finger away, a thin line of blood began to run down the length of her finger.

"Even in this condition…it's as sharp as ever," Mukuro marveled to herself before her concentration was broken by a surprised voice.

"Oh! Now that's something I never thought I'd see again!" Junko's voice resounded through the room, genuine shock encompassing her. However, it vanished as Monokuma grinned wide and it's master's voice continued, "Then again, I'm used to seeing it covered in blood and sweat. It looks like you haven't been taking very good care of it either."

An involuntary shudder overtook the solider as her sister's words brought back memories she shared with this particular knife. If she had been facing the bear, then Junko would have gotten to see the despair that came with those memories. Fortunately, Mukuro was able to regain her composure rather quickly, closing the metal box and returning it to its hiding spot.

"Hmph," Mukuro scoffed as she closed the door to her closet and marched past the bear, taking a seat at her dresser. "If you don't mind, I have work to do."

Pulling open a small drawer, she reached in and produced a small kit marked with a wolf. Flicking it open, a wide variety of tools became visible. A whetstone for sharpening, polish for the rustic blade, and replacement handle pieces complete with screws.

Wasting no time, the Ultimate Soldier began repairs on the blade, leaving an increasingly bored Monokuma to look on. Unexpectedly, the bear stood there for a time, just staring at Mukuro as she worked on restoring the blade to its former glory. All the while, the soldier ignored it, deciding to remain focused on her task.

Just as the air began to thicken between them, Monokuma threw up its paws and waddled toward the door.

"Okay then! I'll be going for tonight," Monokuma suddenly said, it's usual cutesy voice returning as it opened the door and prepared to leave. Just before exiting however, the bear turned around and practically snickered as it said, "Just be sure to get enough rest. Tomorrow will be a big day…"

Something in Monokuma's words startled Mukuro's concentration but before she had a chance to react, the bear departed.

With the demented bear gone, the Ultimate Soldier clenched her jaw and gritted her teeth. Mentally, she felt ashamed for having failed her sister and with that in mind, she raised a hand and furiously slapped herself across the face.

As a tint of redness formed on her cheek, she furrowed her brows and whispered, "No more. I won't let myself show weakness again."

Staring down at the rustic knife, her hands began to shake before she grasped the blade tightly to steady herself. Suppressing her emotions for the good of her mission, Mukuro slowly resumed her work, letting herself be consumed by it.

"…I can't let it all be for nothing. I have to finish what I started. I won't fail Junko again…never again…"

"…I have to get out of here…I have to get out of here…I know that…but…"

Sayaka sat at Makoto's desk, her eyes downcast and filled with confliction. In her lap, the kitchen knife she'd stolen earlier sat, completely clean. It should have been murky, covered in the blood of her foolishly trusting friend, Makoto. That's what she'd planned after all.

Faking that someone was after her, getting Makoto alone in his room, stabbing him from behind when she got the chance, that was what she thought she was going to do.

Instead, she asked him to switch rooms, used sweets words of praise to gain even more of his trust and let him leave without even trying to stop him. No doubt he was already in her room, probably sleeping in her bed and reveling in her scent or something strange that boys do when they're alone.

Why? Why had this happened? Why wasn't she able to just stab him and get it over with?!

She'd been using him from the beginning anyway...hadn't she? The only reason she'd befriended him was just a way to cope with this desperate situation. Yeah, that must have been why she'd done it. And, of course, offering to be his assistant was merely a way to earn his trust…there wasn't any…other reason. Even though she never considered killing him before seeing her video, the fact was that he was nothing more than a tool to her…right?

"…Then why the hell couldn't I kill him?!" she shouted at herself, thankful for the soundproof rooms.

However, before the words left her mouth, she already knew the answer…and that's what hurt the most.

Makoto was good, pure and honest. He was everything that she so desperately wanted to be. Sure, she appeared that way to so many…but she knew how rotten and disfigured her soul truly was. Many of her rivals had fallen victim to her ruthlessness during auditions. Even her own band mates were cautious of her when she was angry.

But Makoto was different. He wasn't anything more or less than himself and he was genuinely a nice and caring person. He was the kind of person she had always strived to be, but fell mercilessly short.

That's why, when Makoto smiled at her and told her he would get them both out, she truly believed him. Even though she was already planning to use him for her escape, she did really believe that, given enough time, he would have found a way to save them both.

However, she couldn't wait for him to find a way. She needed to know that her closest friends were alright and that the video was a lie. Her mind was consumed with that thought and it drove her to collect the kitchen knife and go straight to his room afterward.

And, as luck would have it, she found him outside his room, talking to Junko of all people.

Makoto was being his usual self, offering to help the fashion model with whatever was troubling her. Sayaka had watched as the two separated and they headed back to their rooms. This was the perfect chance for her to strike!

However, just before Makoto opened his door, she was shocked to see him pull up his sleeve to his face, wiping away moisture from his eyes. It was then that Sayaka finally noticed his reddened face and the melancholy expression he bore as he entered his room.

"Wait…was he…crying?" she had thought after his door had closed, leaving her alone in the hallway.

The pure and honest Makoto…had been crying his eyes out? But why? What could he have to—?

Sayaka's blue eyes widened as a thought occurred to her. "He wasn't…trying to think of a way to get me out…but he couldn't think of one and so he…"

Shaking her head, she tried to deny that he was weeping out of sadness or frustration. However, no matter how hard she tried, it was obvious that the weight of the promise she'd forced upon him was taking a huge toll on him. Her own words rang in her mind, recalling what she'd made him swear to.

"Promise me that, no matter what, you'll always be on my side!"

"Makoto…" she whispered to herself, feeling guilt for her actions for the first time since she'd arrived.

And in that instant, somewhere deep inside, she realized she couldn't kill him. That's why she'd switched rooms and was now, once again, alone with her dark thoughts.

"What…what do I do now?!" she screamed, slamming her fists onto the desk. "I have to get out of here! But…but…"

She'd lost what might be her only opportunity to kill someone and be set free. No one else trusted her enough to be alone with her. She'd barely spoken to anyone else, spending so much time with Makoto. The only other person she'd even really talked to was—

"…Leon."

A gasp escaped her as a plan already began to formulate in her mind. Without much hesitation, she reached for the pad of paper and pen on the desk in front of her.

Junko Enoshima was getting bored…not because the game wasn't progressing but because she was losing faith that her sister would be able to play her role. Staring at the monitor in front of her, the despair loving woman pursed her lips before breathing a heavy sigh.

Mukuro was still hard at work, polishing and sharpening that knife of hers that held more meaning than anyone else would know. Of course, Junko also understood its significance, which is why she elected to remain silent about using it.

After all, it was going to bring such lovely despair to both the wielder and it's victim. However, the fact that Mukuro brought it out all together was disheartening.

"If this keeps up, she's going to become a liability," Junko murmured to herself, glancing over at another screen that deeply held her interest.

She had considered that her sister might not be able to fulfill the role properly and thus, decided that having a backup would be necessary. And of all the students, she couldn't imagine a better mole to manipulate.

"Then again, I suppose that's why I have you. Isn't that right, Miss Ultimate Martial Artist?"

She smirked at the screen before hopping up from her chair and heading for the Monokuma control room.

Completely unbeknownst to her, on another screen not far away, Sayaka came into view just long enough to slip a piece of paper underneath a certain someone's door.

"You would like me to…sleep over?" Sakura Ogami asked carefully, unsure if she had heard correctly.

Nervously fidgeting with her hands, Hina slowly nodded her head. "I-I mean, don't feel pressured or anything! I just…I just thought it would be nice to, you know, hang out for a while?"

Sakura could only smile as she watched the only friend she had here desperately trying to hide how nervous she was. Hina was bluntly obvious about everything and always spoke her mind, so when she was trying to cover up her own anxiety, it shows through even more.

However, Sakura knew the source of her anxiety and therefore decided to consent to her request. Besides, Hina would never give in to temptation and murder anyone. She was too good of a person for that.

"Very well. Let me get a few things from my room and I'll be right over."

Hina's face lit up with absolute excitement and she had to stop herself from jumping with joy as she replied, "All right, cool! I'll meet you back at my room then. Just knock and tell me it's you and I'll let you right in!"

With a spring in her step, Hina bounded off down the hall toward her room. Left standing just outside the cafeteria, Sakura smiled warmly before lightly shaking her head and advancing toward her own room.

Even though it was at the end of the hall, it was still a short trip and she expected it would only take a few moments to gather her belongings.

Opening the door to her room and shutting it promptly, Sakura was about to pull open her closet when a loathsome voice called out to her.

"Wow, so this is what it's like being in a muscle-bound martial artist's room. I expected more Bruce Lee posters, honestly."

Instantly on guard, Sakura spun around and assumed an aggressive fighting stance before glaring furiously at the source of the voice.

"You. What are you doing in my room, Monokuma?!" she furiously shouted at the demented bear as it stood on her bed to try and match up to her height, failing in that regard.

"Oh, don't mind me. I'm just paying a house call to one of my favorite students," the bear reasoned, holding its hands up in mock surrender.

Slamming her fist into the wall, indenting the metal hidden beneath the sheet rock, Sakura gritted her teeth and seethed, "Enough of your games! Tell me why you're in my room?!"

Shuddering in apparent fear, Monokuma waved its arms defensively and answered, "Whoa, whoa, whoa! Just calm down, Miss Ogami! I'm here because my students are all confused about those DVDs you all got!"

At the mention of the videos, the Ultimate Martial Artist flinched, recalling her own. Removing her hand from the wall, she stood up straight and folded her arms menacingly, ready to resume her stance and battle at any moment. She would take no chances with such a dangerous foe.

Glaring down at the bear, she calmed herself enough to say, "Is that why you're here? To taunt me?"

"Oh goodness, no!" Monokuma falsely claimed, it's voice becoming more annoying by the moment. "I just wanted to answer a question that all of my students have been asking about those videos."

Sakura could already see though Monokuma's intentions but knew that lashing out would only make the situation worse for her. After all, if she was here too long, Hina might come looking for her and stumble upon this. If that happened, everyone, including Hina, would grow suspicious of her. And as such, she would not be able to protect them if it ever came down to that.

Perhaps that's what the bear wanted and Sakura was determined not to let it happen. She had promised herself to be strong for everyone and fight for them if need be, she would not let the deranged mastermind have their way with her classmates!

To that extent, she decided to let the bear get to his point.

"And, since you're my favorite—" Sakura groaned at hearing this but let the bear continue, "—I thought that you should be the first to know."

"And what would that be?" the martial artist questioned, narrowing her gaze.

Waving for her to come closer, which she reluctantly did, Monokuma put up its paws and whispered loudly, "Those videos…are all true!"

Hardening her visage, Sakura was about to tell the bear off when he abruptly continued.

"And of course, the image of your dojo was accurate as well." Putting it's paws on it's sides, Monokuma boldly proclaimed, "As of right now, I am the official owner of that formerly historic dojo!"

Hearing this, Sakura felt something in her mind snap. An aura of immense power seemed to flow out of her as she clenched her fists. Her teeth grit tightly as she reared her arm back and shouted, "BASTARD!"

With lightning speed, the Ogre slammed her fist into her bed, splintering it into a million pieces. However, her intended target, Monokuma, flipped over her head and landed gracefully by the door. Caught up in her rage, Sakura spun around and was about to launch herself at her foe when the bear held up a piece of paper with her family's crest on it.

Barely able to stop herself, Sakura could only stand there as Monokuma began to explain.

"This document transfers ownership of your family's dojo to one, Mr. Monokuma. It's all perfectly legal and in binding print."

Feeling her rage increase once more, the martial artist shouted, "And you expect me to believe this is real?!"

Shrugging it's shoulders, Monokuma continued, "Whether you believe it or not is up to you. However, I have to say that I really don't have any need for that place. I mean, have you seen it lately? Even my recent remodel didn't make it any less filthy!"

Although the bear's words sparked anger, Sakura couldn't help but recall her DVD. Particularly the various broken board and Monokuma-esque drawings that were plastered on the walls and floors. Just as she felt herself building up rage for another attack against the bear, it rolled up the paper and held it out to her.

"So, I've decided that I want to give that crappy dojo back to you. Isn't that nice of me?" Monokuma said, practically beaming menacingly.

For a moment, Sakura couldn't believe what she was hearing. Then again, she couldn't truly believe anything this bear told to her but this was the most unbelievable yet! Even so, she couldn't deny the hint of relief that came with this sudden offer.

However, it was immediately replaced with suspicion upon remembering whom she was dealing with. And so, instead of reaching out for the paper, as the bear most certainly wanted, Sakura instead decided to place her arms at her side and merely glare down at the conniving bear.

"…And what do I have to do for you in exchange?"

For a brief instant, a hint of surprise warped Monokuma's features, obviously not expecting such an intelligent answer. However, it was gone within a moment, replaced with a maniacal grin as it pulled the paper back and seemed to tuck it away behind it's back.

"You caught on quicker than I would have liked, but no matter." Walking over to stand directly in front of Sakura, the bear looked up at her and said, "I propose a simple trade for your dojo."

"What kind of trade?" the martial artist asked offensively, half-prepared for any kind of demand.

Her worst fears were confirmed as Monokuma reared its head back and laughed manically, "Upupupupupupupu! What have I been asking of all of you since this little game began?"

Even though the implication was enough, Sakura still felt the need to confirm it with words.

"You want me to kill one of my classmates," she said firmly, making it not a question but a certainly. Surprising, Monokuma didn't even react to her words, tilting its head to the side as if in thought.

"Hmmm, that may be necessary later but that's not exactly what I had in mind."

Shock overtook Sakura as she heard this and she immediately questioned, "But, isn't that what you have been asking of us since we were first imprisoned here?"

Looking over at the martial artist, Monokuma gave a confused look and answered, "Actually, I never asked any of you to kill anyone. I asked you all to live here in peace but gave you a way out just in case. Am I wrong?"

Sakura felt her rage returning at how the bear was twisting the facts. She wanted to question why the loathsome creature kept taunting them if that's all it really wanted but there was a more prominent question to be answered.

"So then, what is it that you want me to do then? Just live in peace with my fellow students?" she finally asked, still not believing the bear's lies.

"Well, to be more precise…I want you to do just that!" Monokuma shouted with glee, doing a spinning motion for a second before facing her again. "Only I want to hear alllllll about it later! You know, because we're so close and you are my favorite student!"

Once again, there was no need for Sakura to ask for clarification. She, unfortunately, was smart enough to read between the lines. Closing her eyes and scowling, she slowly said, "So then…you want me to spy on my friends…and report everything back to you."

"Yup."

The bear's short and curt response was almost maddening but somehow, Sakura managed to keep herself under control.

"And you honestly expect me to do this for you? Just to have my family's dojo returned to me?" she questioned further, trying a bluff.

Unfortunately, Monokuma could easily see though her and called her on it.

"If it means that you don't bring dishonor to your entire family line…I think you'd bend over backwards and kiss your own ass if it meant getting it back!

Sakura winced at the vulgar language but could not retort. For it was true, for the most part.

The Ogami Family Dojo was an ancient and honorable place. And while serving as head of her family, it was her responsibility to safeguard it. Many had fought and died to protect it. Those sacrifices alone showed the devotion to her clan. And no matter how much it hurt her to admit, as a member of the Ogami Family, it was her duty to reclaim ownership of it…no matter the cost.

And so, if she had to betray her classmates, lie to them, do the mastermind's bidding…even throw away her newfound friendship with Hina, she would make that sacrifice if it meant restoring her family's dojo.

That is what it meant to be Head of the Ogami Family.

"Alright then, do we have a deal?" Monokuma disrupted her thought, holding out his black paw for her to shake. Staring down at the paw that was offered, Sakura felt something within her begin to twist and it made her hesitate.

"Hey! I don't have all day!" the bear protested, waving it's hand enthusiastically. "If you don't give me an answer, I'll burn the damn dojo to the ground!"

Gritting her teeth and tensing, Sakura regrettably extended her hand and grabbed the paw, squeezing so tight she felt the metal inside twist. With a firm jerk, they shook and just before Monokuma was about to pull away, the bear was pulled forward and forced to meet eyes with the Ogre. She stared through the lenses and knew that she was now meeting eyes with the mastermind behind them.

Feeling that connection, she scowled fiercely and said, "Know this. I only do this out of obligation. If you expect me to enjoy being any part of this…you are sorely mistaken."

Even if it was only for a moment, she swore she felt the mastermind tremble behind the bear's lenses before abruptly letting go and having Monokuma tumble backwards onto its ass. Hopping up and brushing itself off, the bear did it's best to seem unaffected as it headed for the door.

"Well then, I guess I'd better get going, for now. Wouldn't want you to be late for you sleepover, now would I? You can tell me allllll about it tomorrow! I hope you get some good info on the swimmer girl to share!"

Once more, Sakura tensed at the bear's words. The mastermind was keeping her on a very short leash it seemed. From this moment on, she would be monitored constantly and she would need to report everything.

However, this was also an important opportunity to gain knowledge of the mastermind. Even though the mastermind would undoubtedly never meet with her personally, Sakura was intuitive enough to pick up on subtle hints and hoped that, sooner or later, the mastermind would let something slip. Something that might be the key to everyone getting out of here.

That thought alone gave Sakura the strength to endure this. She had to, for her friends that she had now betrayed, she needed to do all she could to help them without being caught!

And so, as Monokuma opened the door to leave, she was completely unprepared when, just before the door closed, the bear poked its head in one last time.

"Oh, and by the way, if no one dies within the next 24 hours…be a pal and kill someone for me!"

Those words sent chills through Sakura's entire body, realizing the extent of what she had just agreed to. However, before she could call out or protest, Monokuma slammed the door. Not wanting to let this slide, the Ultimate Martial Artist quickly gave chase, ripping open the door and dashing into the hall.

Scanning all directions, she furiously glared around the area but alas, she could not find the hateful bear anywhere. Her fingernails dug into her palms as she felt rage overtake her.

She had thought she was only supposed to spy on her classmates, not kill them! Only now did Monokuma's words from earlier come back to haunt her.

"Hmmm, that may be necessary later…"

Shame overtook the proud warrior as she was forced to accept that she may as well have sealed her own fate! How could she be so foolish as to not realize the mastermind's intentions?!

"That is not what I agreed to!" she seethed, preparing to slam her fist against the wall.

However, a fearful voice stopped her cold.

"S-Sakura! What happened?!"

Freezing in place, Sakura slowly turned to see none other than Hina staring up at her, concern plastered over her already exasperated face. For a few seconds, neither of them moved or said a word.

"H-Hina," she finally managed to say, forcing herself to be calm. "I…I didn't see you there."

"Uh…yeah," Hina replied sheepishly, trying to find the right thing to say. "I was, uh, worried when you started to take so long. I figured that something may have…you know."

Sakura felt such shame, not only for losing her composure, but for making her friend worry for her. Even more than that, just looking at Hina's troubled face reminded her of the arrangement she'd just accepted. She wanted to put her friend's mind at ease but knew that telling her the truth was out of the question.

And so, she resorted to something that she had never done in her entire life…she lied to her friend.

Putting on a fresh smile, Sakura placed a gentle hand on Hina's shoulder and said, "Your concern is appreciated but I'm afraid that this misunderstand is my fault. You see, I was searching my room for a…special protein drink that I cannot seem to find. When I realized it was gone, I became…angry."

Hoping her lie was convincing enough, she waited patiently for Hina's response. However, she only had to wait another instant before hearing a relieved sigh from her friend, followed by a bright and somewhat embarrassed smile.

"Oh, that's all it was! And here I was thinking someone had attacked you or something. I feel kinda stupid now," she confessed, nervously scratching her hair before continuing. "But I totally know how you feel! I'd be super pissed if someone took the last donut without even offering it to me!"

Breathing a quick sigh of relief that her story had been bought, Sakura removed her hand and said, "I'm sorry to have worried you over something so small. I hope you can forgive me."

"Of course I can! That's what friends are for, right?!" Hina bubbly answered, holding both hands up enthusiastically.

Unbeknownst to Hina, that apology was not meant for her lie but for the betrayal that she had committed. Either way, she had to continue on and decided to stand up straight before looking back at her room. She couldn't let Hina see her room now, not with the broken bed and damaged walls. Even with her lie, it would be too difficult to explain.

"I am ready to follow you to your room, if you are ready to have me?" Sakura said convincingly, sort of wishing she could have at least brought a spare pillow. However, she was feeling in the mood to punish herself, for obvious reasons.

However, her lie worked perfectly on the ever so trusting Hina and she lit up with a shimmering in her eyes as she nodded firmly and began leading the way.

"Yeah! We're gonna have a great time tonight! Staying up all night, talking about boys and eating lots of junk food! Especially donuts! Are you with me, Sakura?!"

"…Indeed."

Walking patiently behind her enthusiastic friend, Sakura snuck one final glance down the hallway. Standing at the very end, Monokuma waved emphatically before disappearing behind a corner and out of sight. Balling her hands into fists, the martial artist forced herself to smile as she turned around just in time for Hina to open the door.

"Welcome to the best night of your life!" Hina insisted ushering her inside.

The instant Sakura's face was out of Hina's view, an intense expression of despair warped the martial artist's features. Even if she survived this…she knew her betrayal would follow her for the rest of her life.

"I am so sorry…Hina."

To Be Continued…

I know that some of you have been asking when the plot is going to diverge from canon. Rest assured, it's coming soon. We've got just a little more to go before then, and I assure you it will be quite interesting.

But yeah, poor Sakura. She's always been a favorite and I wanted to spend a bit of time showing her becoming the mastermind's spy. And, what do you think is going to happen with Mukuro? Will her secret get revealed or will something else happen to her? You'll find out soon enough!

Thanks for reading and if you have a comment or have a question for me, don't hesitate to ask. In the meantime, have a wonderful day, my beautiful readers!