Chapter 2: Despair and Punishment

Day:March 22 nd Time:8:00 PM Location:Gaming House-Casino

Rantaro, Celestia, Nagito, Fuyuhiko, Peko and the Ultimate Imposter were sitting around a table, playing poker. Fuyuhiko and Nagito were tied in first place with 1000 points, Celeste followed them with 500, then Peko with 300, and lastly Rantaro and the fat Togami with 100 each.

''This day has been a roller-coaster, hasn't it?'' Rantaro commented.

''That is quite the understatement.'' Pekoyama said.

''If nobody's gonna start the bets, I'll go.'' Fuyuhiko said with a smirk. ''I'm gonna go all-in with my 1000. Let's see if any of you bastards has the balls to go for this.''

''I'm about to lose.'' Togami said. ''I won't risk calling that.''

''I'll go all in, too.'' Nagito said as he pushed his chips towards the center on the table.

''Crap!'' Kuzuryu shouted. ''Last time he did that, this asshole had five fucking tens. I better fold them.''

''I will fold as well.'' Peko said.

''In that case, I will match Nagito's bet.'' Celeste said with a smile.

''Me too.'' Rantaro said. ''Might as well lose already. I kinda want to go for a walk.''

''Let us show our cards, shall we?'' Celeste said as she threw her cards on the table. She had two sevens.

''Looks like you win.'' Nagito said as he showed his hand. He had two threes.

''Are you fucking serious!?'' Fuyuhiko stood up. ''Who the hell goes all-in with two goddamn threes!?''

''Nagito is not good at risk management.'' Celeste rested her chin on her hands. ''And his luck is extremely predictable as well. As long as you're familiar with him, he's the easiest opponent you can find.''

''Shit!'' Kuzuryu frowned. ''I had three fucking kings! What a waste.''

''Even if we're classmates, I'm not really surprised that you don't know me at all.'' Nagito sighed. ''Who would ever pay any attention to a nobody like me?''

''Have you guys forgotten about me?'' Rantaro showed his hand. He had three queens.

''Oh!'' Celeste put a hand to her mouth. ''It seems I was severely underestimating you. Your poker face is outstanding.''

''Goddammit!'' Fuyuhiko kicked his chair and walked away. ''I could have beaten that, too!''

Pekoyama silently stood up and followed him.

''Jeez.'' Amami said. ''What a sore loser.''

''I'd expect as such from the Kuzuryu family.'' Byakuya said. ''For all their power, they're but vulgar criminals. It is foolish to expect good manners from the king of the scum. The Togami family, on the other hand, is famous for our grace in every situation.''

Celeste grabbed a cup of red wine from the table and took a sip. ''I must ask, why do you insist on pretending to be someone you aren't?''

''I could ask you the same question.'' Togami smirked.

''I beg your pardon?'' Ludemberg gagged on the wine.

''Thanks to my talent, I'm quite good at telling when people are hiding behind a facade.'' The imposter adjusted his glasses. ''I'm sure your true identity is not Celestia Ludenberg. So what is your real name?''

Celestia crushed the cup in her hand. ''Oops.'' She said with a smile. ''My hand slipped.''

''That is not what just happened.'' Rantaro deadpanned.

''I any case, I should go see Tsumiki.'' The gambler stood up. ''I might have gotten a dangerous cut. I'd rather not die because of such a trivial thing.''

''You ultimates never cease to amaze.'' Nagito smiled. ''You're all such interesting characters.''

Day:March 22 nd Time:8:54 PM Location:School-Courtyard

Makoto walked into the courtyard and found Sayaka sitting in a swing, with red eyes and streaks down her face.

She slowly raised her eyes to look at the Ultimate Lucky Student. ''I don't want to be here, Makoto.'' She said. ''I wanna go home. I want to see my family again. And my friends. I want to make sure they're okay.''

''I'm sure they are.'' Naegi said with a sweet smile as he walked towards her. ''And we'll be fine, too.''

''How can you say that after what happened with Toko and Yumeno?'' Maizono sobbed.

''It won't happen again.'' Makoto said with determination. ''We've all made that promise, right?''

''You're too optimistic.'' The idol smiled sadly. ''I can't trust so many people to keep a promise. But...I can trust you. If you say it won't happen to us, I'll believe it.''

''It's a promise, then.'' Makoto offered her his hand. ''I won't let anything bad happen to you.''

''Don't forget about yourself, either.'' Sayaka took his hand and jumped out of the swing. ''I don't want you dying on me. I'll put on a concert on your tombstone if you let that happen.''

''I'll have to do my best, then.'' Naegi scratched the back of his head.

The pair started to walk away, but they heard voices coming from one of the classrooms' window, which was ajar. They decided to take a peek. Inside, Chiaki and Keebo were talking.

''You know...'' Nanami was saying. ''At first, when you all came here, I was really happy. I just thought I could make friends with everyone. And now...everyone is suffering. But still, if I could go back time and stop you from coming, I don't know if I'd do it. Cuz' I'm still glad I met all of you. It's lonely here sometimes. Do you think I'm selfish?''

''As far as my understanding of human morality goes, there's nothing wrong with wanting friends.'' Keebo said. ''However, we can't stay here forever. All of us have places to go back to. Perhaps we can come back again, under less stressful circumstances.''

''I know.'' Chiaki said. ''I'm gonna help you escape. I won't let another killing happen. It's the least I can do.''

''What are you talking about, Chiaki?'' Makoto asked from the window. ''Why are you speaking like you're not one of us?''

Chiaki turned around, with her mouth wide open. ''Can you guys keep a secret?'' She asked.

Day:March 22 nd Time:9:09 PM Location:East Area-Mountain Base

Mondo looked up and cracked his knuckles. ''If he's up there, I'll find him.'' He muttered.

''Do you really think a tiny guy like him could climb up a mountain?'' Owari came out of seemingly nowhere.

''We've been searching everywhere.'' Owada said. ''All that's left is up in the mountains or the bottom of the sea. And he's not gonna be alive in the bottom of the sea.''

''If you wanna climb up that, I'll climb it with you.'' Akane cracked her knuckles.

''I don't need help.'' Mondo huffed.

''Who's talking about help?'' Owari grinned. ''I'm just here for some friendly competition. That maid girl said to stay busy, didn't she? Besides, it's cold up there. It's good to have someone to keep you warm.''

''Tch. What a noisy chick.'' Mondo started climbing. ''Just don't get in my way.''

Day:March 22 nd Time:9:45 PM Location:Hotel 5 th F-Hiyoko's room

Mahiru knocked on the bathroom's door. ''I understand how you feel, but you can't stay locked up there forever.'' She said. ''Mikan and I have brought you something to eat it.''

''It's pudding.'' The nurse said with a smile.

''Who gave you permission to come in, you nasty pigshit!?'' Hiyoko shouted from inside the bathroom. ''This room is for ladies only. Go wallow in a pigpen where you belong!''

''I-I'm sorry!'' Mikan ran out of the room, crying.

''Why are you always so mean to Mikan?'' Koizumi sighed. ''You really should try to get along with her.''

''Why?'' Hiyoko opened the door. Her eyes were red. ''I was starting to get along with Toko and now she's dead. Having friends will only make it harder when they die. It's better for Mikan if she hates me, too.''

''No one else is going to die.'' Mahiru put her hands to her hips. ''I didn't know you were friends with Fukawa. I understand that you're upset, but still, you shouldn't...''

''It's probably better she's dead, anyway.'' Hiyoko said with a glare. ''She was a serial killer, wasn't she? I don't care about Yumeno, either. And I don't want to care if you get killed, so go away! I only ever needed you to help tie my kimono, anyways.''

Mahiru bit her lip and turned around, shaking. ''Is that really how you feel?''

''Yes!'' Saionji shouted. ''And I've probably learned by now, so take your ugly ass out of here and go have a bug orgy with the that dyslexic giant or whatever!''

''Fine, then.'' Mahiru said with silent tears as she walked towards the door. ''Have fun on your own.''

''Shut up already!'' Saionji spat at her, but her eyes were teary.

Day:March 22 nd Time:10:18 PM Location:Sports Complex-Gym

Hina, Sakura and Ryoma were doing push-ups. Kaito was sitting on the floor next to them.

Nekomaru was yelling at them. ''Keep going!'' He shouted. ''A strong body goes hand in hand with a strong mind! Overcome your worries!''

''Well said.'' Momota shouted. ''Let's get stronger for Himiko!''

''A good sentiment.'' Sakura said. ''But you aren't backing it up with your muscles.''

''That's because I've done my 100 already.''

''Liar!'' Nidai yelled. ''You've done less than 10!''

Suddenly, Hina collapsed to the floor and started crying. ''I'm sorry.'' She sobbed. ''I just remembered Himiko and her death. That was so horrible. I lost all the strength in my body just thinking about it.''

''That's just natural.'' Ryoma said as he stood up. ''Himiko was my classmate, but I can't say we were particularly close. Even so, to see someone as youthful die like that...I wish it had been me. At least my crimes deserve punishment.''

''Don't say that, Ryoma!'' Kaito clenched his fist. ''I'm affected by this, too, but no one else deserves to die like that. Obviously not Himiko, either. But we can't do anything about what has already happened. We have to move forward!''

''Perhaps it's too much to ask.'' Ogami got up and crossed her arms. ''It's been only a few hours, after all. That gruesome scene is still fresh in our minds. We can't force ourselves to get over it so soon.''

''You know the three things that can help in any situation!?'' Nekomaru crossed his arms. ''A good appetite, a good night's sleep, and a good shit!''

''A good night sleep, huh?'' Hoshi adjusted his hat. ''Maybe that's we need. Just maybe...we'll feel better when we wake up tomorrow.''

Day:March 22 nd Time:10:27 PM Location:Hotel 4 th F-Ibuki's room

Leon and Soda entered the room. Kuwata was carrying a mended electric guitar with him.

''OMG!'' Ibuki screamed in shock. ''Is that Ibuki's baby!? Did you bring her back from the dead?''

''I did what I could.'' Kazuichi scratched his face. ''Not sure if it'll sound good, though. It was Kuwata's idea. At first I though it was creepy as all hell, but then I told myself 'I can't repair dead bodies, but I can at least fix this.' It's not a life, but it's something.''

''It's still a murder weapon, though.'' Leon said. ''We can get rid of it if you don't like it.''

''No, I love it!'' Mioda grabbed the guitar and started playing. ''It sounds weird. Like the souls of our friends are singing from inside!''

''That means you don't want it, right?'' Soda grimaced.

''Are you kidding!?'' Ibuki yelled in tears. ''This is the birth of an all-new genre of music! I'll write a ballad right now! A ballad with the power of the fallen! A song that would make everyone smile and cry at the same time.''

''Good idea.'' Leon said. ''We can't let the deaths of our schoolmates get the better of us, but we shouldn't forget them either. Let's make a song to remember them by.''

Day:March 22 nd Time:10:36 PM Location:Graveyard

Kyoko entered the graveyard. Byakuya was standing there, looking at Toko's grave, and Kirumi was kneeling next to Himiko's, arranging some flowers.

''I didn't expect to find you here.'' Kirigiri said. ''Then again, Toko was always following you around. Maybe you'll miss her.''

''Hardly.'' Byakuya smirked. ''However, she had become quite the constant annoyance in my life. I will certainly be aware of her absence.''

''As usual, you're not always as blunt as when it comes to scathing comments.'' Kirumi got up. ''Now allow me to add some flowers to Fukawas' tomb as well. Even if no one else does, I will take it upon myself to serve our fallen comrades. Death can't cancel the duties of a maid.''

''On another note, you know this isn't over, right?'' Togami crossed his arms. ''We're still in danger.''

''Are you talking about the wolf Monokuma talked about?'' Kyoko asked.

''Indeed.'' Byakuya nodded.

''That might as well have been a devious ploy to sow distrust among us and facilitate a murder.'' Tojo said. ''One that worked quite well, I may add.''

''Perhaps.'' Togami adjusted his glasses. ''Or perhaps it was the truth. As long as the possibility exists, we shouldn't let our guard down.''

Day:March 22 nd Time:11:01 PM Location:Museum-Weapon's Exhibit

Hiro sneaked inside the exhibit and picked up a dagger. When he turned around to leave, he found the Ultimate Soldier standing before him.

''Good night.'' She said.

''Mukuro!'' Hagakure jumped back. ''What are you doing here!?''

''I like this place.'' She said dryly.

''I swear I'm not plotting anything!'' He yelled, sweating. ''This is just for self-defense. I don't wanna end up like Toko.''

''How wise.'' She said as she caressed the handle of a saber. ''But I'd recommend something bigger.''

''Nah, this is enough.'' Yasuhiro said with a forced smile. ''By the way, how come you're not with Junko?''

''She said she was sick of me following her around and told me to go away.'' Ikusaba sighed.

''She's always treating you like crap.'' Hiro frowned. ''Why do you keep siding with her?''

''Because she's my sister.'' Mukuro answered without hesitation and took the saber in her hand.

''Aaaaaaaah!'' Hagakure shouted and fell back on his butt. ''Please don't kill me!''

But Mukuro turned around and blocked a blow from the other side. Harukawa was the attacker, armed with a scimitar. She quickly jumped back, only to lunge at her again, but Mukuro stopped her sword with her own. They kept clashing their swords and the metallic sound filled the room.

''When did she enter?'' Hiro muttered. ''Screw that, How can she keep up with Mukuro?''

''Are you trying to kill me?'' Mukuro asked as she blocked a blow to her face.

''You bet I am.'' Maki deadpanned, pushing her sword forward.

''Why?'' Ikusaba said, jumping to the side to let Maki fall forward.

''A friend of mine died this evening.'' Harukawa said with a glare as she turned around and blocked a slash. ''You know what they say, everyone handles grief their own way. You could say I'm in the anger stage. It's because of you two that Himiko died, so I'm going to kill you. I bet that will stop all this.'' Maki jumped in the air and brought her scimitar down on Mukuro

''No, it won't.'' The soldier dodged and kicked Maki on the side of her chest, throwing her to the other side of the room. ''You shouldn't underestimate Junko.''

''What will she do when she's dead?'' The child caregiver got up.

''If you lay a hand on her, I'll make sure the rest of your classmates die screaming.'' Ikusaba glared at her. ''It's obvious you can't kill me, either. Give up.''

''Hmph.'' Maki's eyes went wide open. ''I'll let you go for now. But you should really watch your back if you don't want to end with a knife sticking from it.''

''I always do.'' Mukuro smiled.

''And you...'' Harukawa put her sword to Hagakure's neck. ''Erase what you've just seen from your memories. As far as you know, I've never been here. Got it?''

''Y-yes, mistress!'' Hiro shouted in tears.

Unbeknownst to any of them, Kokichi was hiding outside the room, watching everything.

Day:March 22 nd Time:11:59 PM Location:Church

Hifumi and Tsumugi entered the church. Angie, Kiyo and Gonta were sitting on the floor in a meditating position.

''Are you guys gonna stay here all night?'' Shirogane asked. ''We've come to check on you.''

''A devotee of Atua has passed away.'' Yonaga said. ''We must pray until her soul reaches the afterlife.''

''But you've been here since 10 PM.'' Yamada said. ''Aren't you done yet?''

''Nope.'' Angie shook her head. ''Atua requires ten hours of non-stop flattery to allow people into his realm.''

''What kind of rule is that!?'' Hifumi screamed.

''Setting aside the particulars, vigils are a very common way to honor the dead in many cultures around the world.'' Shinguji commented. ''Humanity truly is beautiful. Even after they're gone, we still try to help our loved ones. I simply cannot refuse to pray for such a sweet soul. I hope she can meet nice friends in the afterlife.''

''Gonta help too.'' Gokuhara said.

''If you're all going to do it, I'll stay too.'' Tsumugi sat down on the floor. '' Himiko was my classmate too. Don't worry about us, Hifumi.''

''A gentleman doesn't leave a lady on her own!'' Yamada sat down next to her. ''I'm not a religious person, but I've worshiped 2D beings. I can pray to Atua, too.''

''Atua welcomes everyone.'' Angie looked at him with a sinister smile. ''But he doesn't like when people take him lightly.''

Day:March 23 rd Time:12:12 AM Location:Hotel-4 th F-Shuchi's room

Shuichi was laying face down on his bed. Kaede entered the room after knocking on the door for ten minutes and receiving no answer.

''Shuichi...'' She said with a sad tone. ''Are you okay? You didn't go to get dinner.''

''I'm not hungry.'' Shuichi said without moving.

''You know you can talk to me about anything, right?'' Akamatsu asked.

''It's my fault, Kaede.'' Saihara sighed. ''I sent Himiko to her death.''

''You know that's not true.'' Kaede frowned.

''If it wasn't for my investigation, she might still be alive.''

''And the rest of us would be dead. All you did was find the truth.''

''That's what Kyoko says.'' Shuichi raised up and stared at Kaede. His eyes were red and teary. ''That a detective should always look for the truth, no matter how much it hurts. But is that really how it is? If the truth causes so much suffering, should we really reveal it?''

''If even she can't convince you with logical arguments, then I have no chance.'' Kaede sat on the bed and put a hand on his shoulder. ''So I'll just tell you this: Stop blaming yourself. You should all blame me instead.''

''What?'' The detective asked with confusion.

''I'm the class representative.'' Tears started falling down the cheeks of the Ultimate Pianist. ''I should have been taking care of all of you, making sure y-you didn't get in trouble. But I didn't, and that's w-why Himiko is dead. I e-even had the audacity to challenge Monokuma, but I couldn't b-back it up.''

Shuichi hugged her. ''I would like to say something like 'it's alright', but I just can't. That'd only be a lie.''

''It's o-okay if it isn't a-alright.'' Kaede was sobbing uncontrollably now. ''E-even if we can't be alright right now, at least we d-don't have to endure it alone. S-so I'll stay the night here, okay?''

Day:March 23 rd Time:12:39 AM Location:North Area-Cliffs

Gundham was staring at the ocean, his left eye covered again with an eyepatch.

Sonia walked next to him. ''Gundham...'' She called. ''Are you okay?''

''It's pathetic, isn't it?'' Tanaka frowned. ''The Overlord of Ice saved by a low-level demon.''

''This is not your fault.'' The princess affirmed with a hand on her chest.

''Is that an attempt to ease my conscience?'' The breeder started to laugh. ''Hahahahahahaha. You're underestimating me, Dark Queen. Have you forgotten that I am evil incarnate? I feel no such thing as guilt for any suffering I may cause. This just goes to show the true danger of my existence. You'd do well to stay away.''

''If you truly want to be alone for a while, I will comply. '' Sonia said. She had become rather proficient at deciphering him. ''However, you should not isolate yourself. You have friends that care about your well-being. Please, do not forget that.''

''Tch.'' Gundham scoffed.

Day:March 23 rd Time:1:15 AM Location:Hotel-4 th F-Tenko's room

Chabashira was rolling on her bed. Her pillow was soaked with tears. Images of Himiko's horrible death kept popping into her head. There was no way she'd be able to sleep for at least a week. And Miu's moans from the next room weren't helping either.

How could she be doing something like that after what happened? Did she not care about her classmate? Every minute that passed, a bit of Tenko's sadness turned into anger, until she couldn't stand it anymore. She got up and walked furiously out of her room. She made her way to the hallway and kicked open the door to Miu's room.

Iruma, who was lying on the bed, screamed, turned completely red and covered herself with the sheets. For all her loud and coarse talk in public, she was actually pretty shy in private. Hanamura was standing next to the bed, wearing nothing but a bright red thong.

''What the hell are you doing, Miu!?'' Tenko shouted. ''Himiko just died a few hours ago! Did she mean so little to you that you can just keep doing this like nothing!?''

''Of course I care about her!'' Miu shouted. ''But Kirumi said to stay busy, right? As long as I'm fucking, I don't have to think about that horrible...Oh God I'm remembering it.'' The Ultimate Inventor tried to cover her mouth, but she ended up puking on Teruteru before she could.

''Not my favorite bodily fluid, but we can make it work.'' The cook shrugged.

Tenko turned around with a sigh and closed the door behind her. Of course someone as bizarre as Miu would have a bizarre way to cope. Everyone grieves differently. I shouldn't judge her.

Just then, Enoshima came walking up the stairs.

''Sweet dreams, Chabashira.'' She said cheerfully, waving her hand and with a wide grin. Tenko punched her in the face so hard that it sent her to the other said of the hallway. ''Woah. That punch was full of despair.'' She stood up as she held her now broken and bleeding nose. ''I'm having so much fun. I think I'm gonna have some quality alone time in the bathroom now. Goodbye.''

Tenko didn't bother to reply and suppressed her impulse to strangle the Ultimate Fashionista right there as she walked up to the 5th floor. She was about to go back to her room when Nanami came out of hers, with two consoles in her hands.

''I heard noise.'' She said. ''You can't sleep, either?''

''No.'' Tenko replied. She didn't feel the need to explain everything else.

''We can play together if you want.'' The gamer offered her a console. ''I have Tekken. You look like a fighting game character, so I think you may like it.''

''What kind of logic is that?'' Chabashira pouted. ''But I guess it's better than rolling in my bed all night.''

Day:March 23 rd Time:1:50 AM Location:East Area-Mountain Peak-Cave

''Good thing we found this cave to stay the night, right?'' Akane commented. ''We would've died outside. Seems like it never stops snowing up here.''

''Dammit!'' Mondo shouted as he punched a rock. ''There's no way anyone can survive here! This whole thing is stupid, isn't it ? He's dead. I'm just in denial.''

''Hey, don't say that.'' Owari said as he hugged him from behind. ''Not giving up is great. I dig that.''

''The fuck are you doing!?'' Owada screamed with a blush.

''It's cold as hell.'' Akane grinned. ''I need some body heat. Listen, that tiny guy is a super genius or something, right? Then maybe he's figured out a way to get outta here. You've searched everywhere for him already. You shouldn't worry that much.''

''It's hard not to worry when one of my classmates is fucking dead!'' Mondo shouted. ''But I think I'll believe in that possibility. I honestly hadn't thought of that. I'm gonna stop searching now. Because I don't want to find something worse than that. I'm a coward, ain't I?''

''You had the guts to come here.'' Akane said. ''That's pretty badass. And you're warm too. I'm already sold, you don't need to prove anything.''

''I wasn't trying to impress you!'' The biker yelled.

Day:March 23 rd Time:6:54 AM Location:Restaurant – Dining Hall

Hajime entered the restaurant and found Ishimaru sitting on a table, sipping some coffee.

''You're an early bird too, Hinata?'' Taka asked way louder than he needed to. ''I expected no less from you!''

''Really?'' Hajime yawned. ''I wouldn't expect that much from me. I don't even have a talent.''

''Has Komaeda brainwashed you!?'' Kiyotaka slammed the table. ''Don't listen to his misguided worldview! The fact that you don't have a talent but you're still here is the reason I admire you!''

''Y-you admire me?'' Hinata was taken aback.

''Of course!'' Ishimaru yelled. ''You've made it so far with sheer effort alone! There's nothing more commendable than that!''

Hajime couldn't help but smile at the compliment. However, his happiness was short-lived, because just in that moment, a hateful voice resonated throughout the island.

''Jeez, another one already? You kids sure are bloodthirsty.'' Monokuma laughed. ''A body has been discovered! After a certain amount of time you can use however you like, the class trial will begin. Have fun, everyone.''

Day:March 23 rd Time:6:52 AM Location: Despairville-Main Street

Angie, Gonta, Korekiyo, Tsumugi and Hifumi were walking back to the hotel when they noticed the lights in the museum were on.

''I think that's the room for the weapons' exhibit.'' Shirogane said. ''Is there someone there?''

''So early in the morning?'' Shinguji wondered. ''I can't help but wonder if they're planning something dreadful.''

''Then we should go check!'' Yonaga said happily. ''Atua wouldn't like it if we let people get away with nasty plans!''

''How can you have so much energy?'' Hifumi yawned. ''All I want to do is sleep.''

''We all go.'' Gonta dragged the Ultimate Fanfic Creator inside the museum while the others walked behind them.

When Yamada saw the scene inside the Weapon's Exhibit, his sleepiness vanished, and he let out a weird scream. Then they all heard Monokuma's announcement.

The motionless body of Fuyuhiko Kuzuryu was lying on the floor, in a pool of blood.

Day:March 23 rd Time:7:03 AM Location: Hotel-4 th F-Hallway

Kaede got out of Shuichi's room. Chiaki, Tenko, Miu, Hanamura, Mioda and Kirigiri were standing in the hallway.

''What the hell are you doing in there?'' Iruma asked. ''Have you finally fucked Shuichi?''

''It's nothing like that!'' Kaede yelled with a blush. ''I was just checking on him.''

''What the hell is going on!?'' Nidai shouted as he got out of his room. ''Is someone else dead!?''

''Surely, this must be a distasteful joke.'' Sonia said as she walked down the stairs.

''It's been less than 24 hours since Toko's demise.'' Celeste was walking behind her. ''True or false, it is certainly distasteful.''

''There's only one way to find out.'' Kyoko said. ''But we should get ready for the worst. Akamatsu, Is Saihara in there?''

''About that...'' The pianist sighed. ''I don't think he's ready to do this again so soon.''

''It's alright, Kaede.'' Shuichi came out of his room. ''I'll do it.''

''Are you sure you can handle it?'' Akamatsu asked with worry.

''Aren't you always telling me to be more confident?'' The detective said with a sad smile.

''First things first, we should locate the crime scene.'' Kyoko said as she started walking to the stairs. Come with us, Nidai. We may need someone to guard the body. We should ask Sakura as well.''

Shuichi nodded and followed them.

''Akane and Shirogane haven't come out.'' Nanami commented. ''I'm worried.''

''They could be anywhere.'' Kaede tried to sound reassuring, but she was just as worried. ''We should try to find everyone. We're the class representatives after all. I'll go tell Makoto too.''

Day:March 23 rd Time:7:22 AM Location: Museum-Weapon's Exhibit

Victim: Fuyuhiko Kuzuryu

Cause of Death: Stab wound to the chest.

Time of Death: around 12:00 AM

Body was found in the Weapon's Exhibit in the Museum

Shuichi put the Monokuma file back in his pocket. ''Is this thing right?''

''Seems so.'' Kyoko was kneeling down next to the dead body. ''But once again, it's not a complete autopsy. There's blood coming out from his mouth. Expected, since his right lung is completely perforated. At least I think so. I have to double-check with Tsumiki.''

''That important?'' Gonta asked. He was standing guard near the door, along with Nekomaru and Sakura.

''It means he was probably alive for some amount of time after getting stabbed.'' Shuichi covered his mouth with his hand. ''But with that kind of injury, it'd be a couple minutes at most.''

''So he didn't even get a chance to fight for his life!?'' Nidai yelled. ''Disgusting!''

''Perhaps not after getting stabbed.'' Kirigiri got up. ''But maybe he fought before that. There's a slash across his right palm. Although, trying to block a blade with your bare hands is not something most people would try to do.''

''We're talking about the Ultimate Yakuza, though.'' Shuichi pointed out.

''I didn't know him that well!'' Nekomaru yelled in tears. ''But he was fearless alright!''

''I've been wondering...what could be the murder weapon?'' Sakura asked.

''Considering his wound, something long and thin.'' Kyoko said in thought. ''It did go through his entire body after all.''

''Many weapons here.'' Gokuhara said.

''However, none have blood on them.'' Ogami crossed her arms.

''The killer could have wiped it off''' Saihara rested his chin on his finger. ''I think there was luminol in the Police Station. We should probably get some.''

''Good idea.'' Kirigiri nodded. ''You should get it and check all these weapons. Meanwhile, I'll gather everyone's alibis. Makoto and the others should have gathered everyone by now.''

Suddenly, Pekoyama stormed into the room. ''Fuyuhiko!'' She screamed as she ran towards his body. ''No!'' She fell on her knees with tears in her eyes. ''I have...failed...my master.'' She bit her lips. ''A weapon can't exist without its owner.''

Before anyone could react, she unsheathed her sword and swiftly stabbed her own abdomen. She fell to the floor, bleeding from both her belly and her mouth.''

''What the hell!?'' Nekomaru yelled.

''We need medical assistance!'' Sakura screamed with her fists clenched.

''We can't leave the crime scene alone.'' Kyoko clenched her teeth. ''Gonta, take her to the infirmary. I'll go get Tsumiki. The rest of you, wait here.''

Day:March 23 rd Time:7:45 AM Location: Restaurant-Dining Hall

''I guess this is all of us.'' Makoto couldn't help but sigh when he realized there were only nine people sitting around the table.

''That can't be right!'' Taka stood up. ''Even after Toko's tragic demise, we should still be fifteen.''

''Chihiro is still missing.'' Hina looked down. ''And now we don't know where Mondo is either.''

''Ms. Kirigiri is investigating.'' Hifumi explained. ''Ms. Ogami is on the crime scene as well.''

''In total, that's four people less.'' Celeste interlaced her fingers. ''And then there's the extremely delicate matter of Junko and Mukuro.''

''I haven't even looked for them to be honest.'' Makoto said.

''For once, you've made a good call.'' Byakuya adjusted his glasses.

''Actually, it was Sayaka's call.'' Makoto scratched his head.

''True.'' Maizono nodded. ''I had to stop him. He wanted to bring them along, even after all they've done.''

''They're still our classmates, aren't they? As the class rep, I feel I had to...''

''You're far too nice, Makoto.'' Leon frowned.

''Even if there are reasons for it, I don't like seeing our class reduced to this.'' Hina said.

''Next time there could be even less...'' Hiro muttered.

''What's that supposed to mean?'' Kuwata asked.

''I mean, someone killed Kuzuryu.'' Hiro put his hands on his hips. ''There's a one in three chance it's someone from our class. Better than even my fortune-telling.''

''That is quite a low bar.'' Celeste smiled. ''However, it is still worth considering. As long as the possibility exists, it'll be hard to keep trusting each other.''

''Please, not this again.'' Aoi sighed. ''I don't want everyone to turn on each other.''

''That's probably what Monokuma is after!'' Ishimaru slammed the table. ''As most villains, he wants to disrupt our society!''

Day:March 23 rd Time:8:08 AM Location: Hotel-Lobby

Hajime, Chiaki, Mahiru, Sonia, The Ultimate Imposter, Teruteru, Nagito, Ibuki and Kazuichi were sitting on several couches.

''I'm sorry guys.'' Nanami put on her hoodie. ''I'm trying to do my best, but now Fuyuhiko is dead and Peko is hurt.''

''Don't beat yourself up.'' Hinata patted her back. ''It's not your fault.''

''Do we know if Peko is going to be okay?'' Mahiru put a hand on her chest.

''According to Mikan, she'll recover.'' Byakuya adjusted his glasses. ''But she also said she was lucky there are so many medical supplies in the clinic. She apparently missed her stomach, too. Thanks to that and Kirigiri's good judgment, she was able to stop the bleeding very quickly.''

''Ibuki still can't believe she did that.'' Mioda yelled.

''Devotion is a double-edged sword.'' Nagito put a finger to his chin. ''It can lead to hope, but also to despair. However, if she manages to overcome this despair, Peko will become the strongest hope of all of us.''

''I swear sometimes you don't make any sense.'' Soda sighed as he grabbed his beanie. ''Anyways, I'm more worried about the others. I know Mikan is taking care of Peko and Nekomaru is guarding the crime scene, but what about Akane, Hiyoko and Gundham?''

''I couldn't find Akane.'' Chiaki explained. ''Hiyoko and Gundham are fine, but they didn't want to come. Hiyoko refuses to leave her room and Gundham is 'wandering the wasteland we call world,contemplating the bottomless pit of the universe and mocking it from above'. Or so he said.''

''How rude of him to turn down a sexy lady like that.'' Teruteru said.

''He was nicer than Hiyoko. '' Chiaki pouted. '' She told me to 'go jerk off to one of those imaginary husbandos from your crappy games'.''

''We should not hold grudges over words.'' Sonia put her hand forward. ''In a situation like this, it is expected that people would be in a delicate mental state. If our friends have chosen to remain isolated for the time being, there is nothing we can do but to accept their feelings.''

''Well said.'' Nanami smiled sadly. ''Maybe you should be the class rep.''

''Please do not take that remark as a criticism.'' The princess smiled back. ''You have done an excellent job all this time. It is you who holds this group together.''

''But it's falling apart...'' The gamer muttered. Of course it is. I'm just a fake after all. It doesn't matter how advanced, an A.I will never be able to copy things like charisma. There are some things that require a human heart.

Day:March 23 rd Time:8:27 AM Location: School-Classroom C

Kaede, Rantaro, Maki, Kaito, Keebo, Tsumugi, Ryoma, Kirumi, Angie, Korekiyo, Tenko and Miu were sitting in chairs arranged in a circular formation in the middle of the class.

''Looks like Ryoma isn't going to come, huh?'' Rantaro commented as he laid back on his chair. ''Can't say I'm surprised.''

''That fucking edgelord is probably sulking around somewhere.'' Miu scoffed.

''All things considered, there are more people here than I had anticipated.'' Kirumi said. ''Maki is not wont to attend this kind of meetings.''

''It's better than getting pestered to death by this idiot.'' Harukawa pointed to Kaito.

''Yep!'' Momota gave a thump up.

''Thanks for helping me.'' Kaede gave a sad smile. ''I always struggle to get all of us together.''

''You'll never be able to get all of us together.'' Tenko sighed. ''Not anymore.''

''Don't be sad about Himiko.'' Angie smiled. ''She's with Atua now!''

''Maybe it won't be just her missing next time.'' Maki said with a cold stare.

''Please do not suggest something disturbing.'' Keebo grimaced. ''The situation is terrible enough as it is.''

''But the possibility exists, doesn't it?'' Kiyo raised his finger. ''It might be better to prepare for the worst.''

''If any of you is responsible for this crime, you better confess now.'' Kaede frowned. ''I don't want Shuichi to go through the same thing again. He's putting his feelings aside to help everyone. I wish I could do something to help. Damnit, I feel so useless.''

''I understand that feeling.'' Tsumugi sighed. ''Gonta and Kokichi are helping too. Meanwhile, we're here doing nothing. Makes you feel like a side character doesn't it?''

''What the hell does Kirigiri even want from that little shit!?'' Iruma spat.

Day:March 23 rd Time:8:31 AM Location: Hotel-5 th F-Hallway

''So what do you want?'' Kokichi asked with his arms laced behind his back. ''Or is this a plot to kill me without witnesses?''

''There's a certain door I need to open.'' Kyoko pointed to Junko's room. Disregarding Mondo and Owari, who were still missing, the Fashionista was the only person she had yet to interrogate. It had not taken very long since most people said they were alone in their rooms when the crime happened. The only ones with a solid alibi were the group that discovered the body, since all of them spent the night together in the church. ''It seems to be closed from the inside. According to Saihara, you know how to pick locks.''

''I sure do!'' Oma smirked. ''What do I get if I help you?''

''Is increasing your chance of survival in the class trial not alluring enough?'' The detective crossed her arms.

''Oh' C'mon!'' Kokichi put a finger to his lips. '' There are so many things you could offer as a reward. Money, food, information, toys, your body...Aren't you going to even try to figure out what gets my going?''

''No.'' Kirigiri glared at him.

''Fine, whatever.'' Oma pulled out a hairpin and started working on the lock.

After a few minutes, the door finally opened. Once she saw what was inside, Kyoko couldn't help but put a hand to her mouth in shock.

Junko Enoshima was lying on the floor, face down in a pool of blood.

Day:March 23 rd Time:8:40 AM Location: Hotel-5 th F-Junko's Room

Kyoko was holding Junko's right arm up in the air and carefully examining it. She shoved a finger through a wound on her hand. ''It really goes from the palm to the back.'' She said. ''Deep would be an understatement.''

''What the hell are you doing!?'' Saionji stuck her tongue out in disgust. Kyoko wanted at least three people present on the crime scene for the investigation, so they had dragged her out of her room. ''Disgusting!''

''You're so mean, Hiyoko.'' Oma smiled. ''You don't have to kink-shame our necrophiliac friend.''

''It's not just her hand. '' The detective ignored them and continued speaking. ''Her arms, legs, torso...She has the same type of wounds all over her body. She was impaled everywhere. No wonder there's so much blood. And yet, it looks like they purposefully missed any vital organs. This goes well beyond a normal murder. It's torture. Whoever did this really hated Junko.''

''Great! That reduces the list of suspects to...literally everyone on this island.'' Kokichi deadpanned.

''Serves the bitch right, honestly.'' Hiyoko smirked.

''...It...hurts...so...much...'' A low voice suddenly said.

''This is not the moment for pranks, Oma.'' Kyoko glared at him.

''Dunno what you're talking about.'' The Supreme Leader shrugged.

''...So...much...pain...'' Enoshima's head slowly raised until she was able to look up. Her expression was the terrifying mix of a painful grimace, an orgasmic blush and a deranged smirk. The rest of her body remained motionless. ''So...much...despair. Every second...is...more agonizing...than the last.''

''Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeek!'' Saionji screamed and ran away from the room.

''The announcment!'' Kirigiri put a hand to her mouth. ''We're three, but it didn't happen! I should have realized...''

''I'm...so...happy.'' Junko kept talking. Blood was flowing out of her nose and mouth.''After all the effort...to organize this...I'm gonna...die...so early? This...is...so cruel...so incredible...What I'm feeling...This has to be...the Ultimate Despair...''

''What's going on?'' Ikusaba asked as she entered the room. ''I saw Saionji running a...Junko!''

''And now my dear sister...is going to watch me die like this?'' The Fashionista laughed. ''It's really...perfect...Absolute...despair...I wish you could feel it, Mukuro...It hurts...so much...It feels so good...''

''W-who did this!?'' The soldier yelled.

''T-that's...a spoiler...sis.'' With those last words, Junko's head fell on the floor once again.

That was the end for Junko Enoshima.

Then, another voice resonated.

''Oh, boy! It's a twofer!'' Monokuma laughed. ''A body has been discovered! Now you have two mysteries to be looking forward to in the trial!''

Day:March 23 rd Time:8:52 AM Location: Clinic-Patient's room #1

Victim: Junko Enoshima

Cause of Death: Loss of blood due to 69 stab wounds across her body.

Time of Death: around 8:45 AM

Body was found in her room

Chiaki put the file back in her pocket. ''The victim is Enoshima.'' She informed.

''I can't say I'm sad for her.'' Peko said from her bed. Her abdomen was completely covered in bandages,red with blood and she was staring sadly at her sword, that was leaning against the wall.

''Even if it's her, we shouldn't forgive killing.'' The gamer sighed. ''It looks like it was pretty gruesome, too.''

''We're not dealing with an average murderer if they were able to put an end to that fiend.'' Gundham frowned.

''It's so nice of you to visit Peko, Gundham.'' Mikan said as she entered the room. She was carrying clean bandages with her.

''Foolish mortal!'' Tanaka blushed. ''I was merely searching for some potions. Maga-Z appears to have been cursed with a level 2 cold. Once here, it's only fit I pay a visit to a battle partner. We faced high school together after all.''

''Right.'' Nanami smiled. ''We're classmates, so we should stick together.''

''I disagree.'' Peko said coldly. ''There's no deeper meaning or bond in attending class together. The only person I truly cared about is dead now. Don't think the presence of any of you makes me feel better. All of your lives combined mean nothing to me if my master is not here.''

''Peko...'' Chiaki put on her hoodie.

Day:March 23 rd Time:9:03 AM Location: North Area-Cliffs

Mukuro was staring at the ocean beneath, ready to jump, when she heard a deep voice behind her.

''You're gonna jump, kid?'' Hoshi was leaning against a tree.

Ikusaba turned her head back. ''Ever since we were born, I've always been following Junko's lead. Without her, I don't know how to...exist.''

''So you wanna end it, huh?'' Ryoma adjusted his beanie. ''If that's how you feel, I won't stop you. But I've been there myself. Thinking I've got no reason to live. And it's true, I don't have one. So might as well stop living. But in the end, I never went through with it. I always tell myself 'What would be the point of that?'. Here's how I see it: As long you're alive, you can still find a reason to live. But once you're dead, then it's all over. So even if I don't really mind dying, going out of my way to die just seems like such a waste, doesn't it?''

Before Mukuro could answer, they heard a familiar voice.

''Well I think that's enough investigating.'' Monokuma said. ''The class trial will start at 9:30 AM. Make sure you don't miss it.''

''Here it is.'' Ryoma said. ''What's gonna to be? Do you want to come to the trial and find out who did your sister in? Or are you going to jump?''

The Ultimate Soldier turned around. ''I think...I don't want to die yet.''

Day:March 23 rd Time:9:16 AM Location: Despairville-Main Street

''Saihara.'' Kyoko called as she approached Shuichi. ''I'm sorry I didn't come back to help you with the luminol.''

''You don't need to apologize for that.'' Shuichi said. ''Someone had to investigate the other murder.''

''Did you find the weapon?'' Kirigiri asked.

''No.'' Saihara sighed. ''Nothing seems to be reacting to luminol. Now we can know for certain the weapon wasn't on the exhibit, but I've been searching all over town and I haven't found anything.''

''Interesting.'' Kyoko put a hand to her chin. ''But disappointing. That could have helped with Junko's murder as well.''

''How so?''

''Her wounds were caused by something long and thin. It might have been the same weapon that killed Kuzuryu.''

''Hey, guys!'' A female voice yelled behind the detectives. They turned around to see Owari and Owada running towards them.

''It's true that Junko and Kuzuryu are dead?'' Mondo asked. ''What the fuck happened while we were gone?''

''You'll probably learn all the details during the trial.'' Kirigiri said. ''More importantly, I hope you have a good explanation for your absence. I'm sure there are plenty among us that find it suspicious.''

''Oh, crap.'' Akane pouted. ''Now they are gonna try to pin it on us?''

Day:March 23 rd Time:9:30 AM Location: Town Hall-Debate Chamber

Everyone was sitting on their seats. Chihiro's was still empty and the maimed the doll was still in Toko's place, but now there were three more: Himiko's was stabbed with miniature swords and split in half, Fuyuhiko's had a huge gap around the chest and Junko's had holes all over it, with stuffing coming out in great quantities. With Kuzuryu gone and Fujisaki nowhere to be seen, Shuichi was now between two empty seats, which made him even more nervous than he already was.

''Does Peko really need to be here?'' Mikan asked. ''She should be resting! Can't she just skip the trial like Fujisaki?''

''Nope.'' Monokuma appeared on the table. ''That guy has a much better excuse, I assure you.''

''It's fine.'' Pekoyama said coldly. ''This is where I want to be.''

''If there aren't any more questions, let's start the class trial.'' The bear yelled excitedly.

''Actually, I'm kinda confused.'' Kazuichi scratched his head. ''Is this trial for Fuyuhiko or for Enoshima?''

''Well, both.'' Monokuma replied. ''If there are two killers on the loose, you have to catch them both and then the two will be executed. However, if even one of them gets away with it, then everyone else will get the ax.''

''That's really unfair!'' Hiro shouted.

''Be it as it may, I don't think we have to worry about it right now.'' Kyoko said with her arms crossed. ''The wounds on both Junko and Kuzuryu are very similar. I think they were both killed by the same weapon. Therefore, it's not a stretch to conclude that the same person is behind both murders.''

''Who committed such awful acts?'' Korekiyo hugged himself. ''That is the question.''

''It's obviously Akane and Owada.'' Hiyoko said with a glare.

''Why do you think that?'' Chiaki tilted her head.

''Isn't it obvious?'' Saionji said. ''Those two have been missing the whole morning, right? Plus, Fuyuhiko and Owada were always fighting. That's why he killed him. This is one of those tit-for-tat things gangsters are always doing.''

''What does Junko have to do with that, though?'' Shirogane asked.

''Enoshima was an awful bitch.'' Hiyoko smirked. ''Her entire existence is enough reason to kill her. I'm actually thankful for that, you two.''

''Cut the bullshit!'' Mondo yelled. ''We were looking for Chihiro on the mountains. It took us the entire evening to climb up and the entire morning to climb down.''

''Yeah!'' Akane clenched her teeth. ''This has nothing to do with us!''

''That's awfully convenient, though.'' Oma said with smile.

''Let's not start accusing each other randomly.'' Makoto sighed. ''We'd be here forever. Most of us don't have solid alibis anyways, right?''

''That's true.'' Shuichi said in thought. ''We can't really trust an alibi if there's only one other person corroborating it. We saw what happened last time. But in this case most people don't have even that. There's no real reason to suspect Owada and Owari above anyone else. At least, not for now.''

''Indeed.'' Kirigiri nodded. ''Instead of having a suspect in mind, it's best to solve the little mysteries and see where that leads us. I'd like to start with the locked room mystery in Junko's case. Her room was closed from the inside, but she was the only person there. I have yet to find a suitable hypothesis to explain this contradiction.''

''Didn't that slut croak in front of you?'' Iruma pointed a finger. ''Maybe she closed it herself?''

''Doubtful.'' Byakuya adjusted his glasses. ''I went to check the body earlier. All of her joints were stabbed from one side to the other. There's no way she moved anywhere in that state. Presumably, she stayed bleeding out in the same spot once the killer was done with her.''

''It may be true she wasn't dead.'' Hoshi said. ''But can we really say someone is alive when they can't do anything except dying?''

''As far as we know, the lock wasn't forced right?'' Hajime asked. ''Then the killer must have used the key.''

''Do we know where that key is?'' Sakura crossed her arms.

''Do you mean this?'' Kokichi pulled out a key ring with Enoshima's name on it.

''Where did you get that?'' Mukuro asked with a glare.

''I just found it lying on the floor when we were investigating in her room.'' Oma shrugged.

''Why didn't you inform me?'' Kyoko glared at him.

''In any case, this doesn't explain the means the killer used to escape the room.'' Kirumi said.

''What if we're wrong, then?'' Saihara said in thought. ''Is there any actual reason to think that the room was closed from inside?''

''Come to think of it, that was just my initial assumption.'' Kyoko put her hand to her chin. ''I suspected someone was inside, so I expected the door to be locked from inside. But Oma picked the lock afterwards, so it would have been impossible to confirm one way or the other.''

''Then it's perfectly possible that the killer used the key to lock the door from outside.'' The fat Togami crossed his arms.

''Then the question becomes 'how did the key get inside the room after that?' '' Celeste interlaced her fingers.

''There's enough space between the door and the floor for it to fit there, right?'' Rantaro said in thought ''Maybe it's as simple as that?''

''You're saying they just shoved the key down the door after locking it?'' Leon frowned. ''That seems too easy.''

''I'd rather take simple over impossible.'' Keebo said.

''Gonta likes simple, too.'' Gokuhara added.

''Turns out that mystery wasn't much of a mystery after all.'' Komaeda shrugged. ''How disappointing.''

''But why would the killer even bother to lock the room if it's so easy to solve?'' Mahiru asked.

''Maybe their goal wasn't to confuse us, but just to prevent us from entering.'' Saihara suggested.

''That makes sense.'' Hifumi adjusted his glasses. ''Ms. Enoshima was bleeding out on the other side. Who knows how long it took for her to die.''

''Such a brutal fate.'' Sonia put a hand to her chest.

''Brutal and well-deserved.'' Maki deadpanned.

''Atua agrees!'' Angie smiled.

''That's a good point.'' Kirigiri scratched her cheek. ''She was still alive when we started checking her body.''

''I wish I could have been there, checking out that sexy, messed-up body.'' Teruteru commented.

''You get creepier by the minute!'' Mioda shouted. ''Ibuki wants to forget that line.''

''The Monokuma file only lists her time of death.'' Shuichi put a hand to his mouth. ''So we don't know when she was attacked. She could have been bleeding out for hours for all we know. We need to know who was the last person to saw her alive and well.''

''That's probably me!'' Tenko clenched her fist. ''I broke her nose around 1:15AM.''

''Such a meaningless wound must have been missed among all the damage inflicted by the killer.'' Gundham closed his eyes.

''Unless Chabashira herself is the killer.'' Sayaka suggested. ''It's suspicious that she got into a fight with her.''

''No, it wasn't her.'' Nanami put a hand forward. ''I came out of my room around the same time. I didn't see Junko, but Tenko and I were playing in the hallway all night, up until the body discovered announcement.''

''I do recall seeing you there when I was going back to my room around 2 AM.'' Sonia nodded.

''Why didn't you tell me you saw Junko!?'' Kyoko clenched her fist. ''I only knew about you two playing games together!''

''Is it really that important?'' Hina asked.

''Very important.'' Shuichi nodded. ''If Junko was alive when Tenko and Chiaki started playing, and they didn't move from that spot until they heard the announcement, then the killer must have been already on the 5th floor.''

''Or pass in front of them.'' Oma pointed at Sonia.

''Then that means the suspects are those with a room on the 5th floor!'' Taka frowned. ''Unless someone else came down those stairs!''

Nanami shook her head. ''Only Sonia went up, and nobody came down until after the announcement.''

''But what if Junko was attacked after the announcement about Fuyuhiko!?'' Nekomaru shouted.

''Impossible!'' Kaito yelled back. ''I tried to get everyone out of their rooms, and Enoshima's was already locked!''

''Then our suspects would be Maizono, Koizumi, Sonia, Lundenbergh, Pekoyama, Saionji, Tsumiki, Kaito, Maki, Byakuya and his copy.'' Tojo listed.

''Saionji seems the most suspicious of all those.'' Kiyo raised a finger. ''She refused to leave her room.''

''Is that so?'' Celeste smiled. ''If I were the killer, I would avoid bringing attention to myself in such a fashion.''

''Then how do we find out?'' Peko asked.

''Having a short list of suspects will certainly be helpful.'' Kyoko crossed her arms. ''But there's one more mystery we must solve.''

''And what may that be?'' The Ultimate Imposter asked.

''The murder weapon.'' Shuichi explained. ''I've been searching for it with luminol all over the place, but I haven't found a thing.''

''What's so weird about that?'' Leon scratched his head. ''The killer just god rid of it, right?''

''That's what I thought at first.'' Saihara nodded. ''But if that weapon was used to kill Junko, the only way to get rid of it without causing suspicion would be throwing out a window. And we haven't found anything like that near the hotel. There was nothing on the 5th floor either. So the only way the killer could have taken it away would be by carrying it with them in front of everyone.''

''I'm sorry, but I don't think that's possible.'' Mikan said as she played with her fingers. ''Whatever made those wounds had to be pretty big. Anyone carrying something like that would stand out like a sore thumb.''

''Most people would.'' Shuichi said with a determined glare. ''But not everyone. There's a person here that could carry a big weapon with them and don't raise any suspicion. Because they always have one with them! Isn't that right, Peko Pekoyama!?'' He pointed at her.

''What are you talking about?'' Peko asked coldly.

''Your katana would fit the wounds of the two victims.'' Saihara glared. ''And you always have it with you. Nobody would think something's up as long you cleaned it afterwards. Of course, luminol could have revealed the truth. That's the real reason you stabbed yourself, isn't it? You covered up the traces of blood with your own blood!''

''That's insane!'' Nekomaru yelled.

''That can't be right.'' Kazuichi grimaced. ''Peko would never kill Fuyuhiko. Not in a million years.''

''Once you rule out the impossible, whatever remains, no matter how unlikely, must be the truth.'' Kyoko said with a finger on her cheek. ''I can't think of a different explanation for the missing weapon. Besides, Junko's death wasn't normal. Few people here have the skill and cold blood required to stab someone so many times without causing any fatal wound. Whoever did that knew what they were doing.''

''Indeed.'' Kirumi nodded. ''You do have experience in the art of stabbing, Pekoyama. I don't think you can deny that. Speaking of which...if you were truly attempting to end your own life, how come you missed the stomach?''

''That is a good point.'' Kiyo raised his finger. ''It's hard to imagine such a skilled swordsman failing to commit Sepukku.''

''If she really did that on purpose, then that means she wasn't actually shocked, right?'' Rantaro asked. ''Then she must have already known he was dead. Sure sounds like she killed him.''

''This entire thing is nothing but baseless accusations!'' Peko gritted her teeth. ''Do any of you have actual proof of what you're saying? You've just failed to find the weapon. It could still be hidden somewhere. The similarities with my sword are a simple coincidence. There's plenty of similar weapons in the museum. Anyone could have taken one and...''

''No.'' Mukuro cut in. Everyone looked at her. The room stayed silent for a minute.

''You intend to elaborate, am I wrong?'' Sonia tilted her head.

''I know by heart all the weapons in that exhibit.'' The soldier explained. ''There's nothing missing that could cause those wounds.''

''That settles it, then.'' Oma shrugged. ''Now we vote or what?''

''Stop! If you choose the wrong person, we will all die here!'' Peko shouted. ''I refuse to die here! I can't die here! I'm...not allowed to die here!''

Day:March 22 nd Time:11:45 PM Location:Museum-Weapon's Exhibit

Peko was alone inside the room, furiously slashing at one of the training dolls.

''Holy shit!'' Fuyuhiko exclaimed as he entered the room. ''What the fuck did that thing do to you? I guess we're all in a pretty shitty mood today after all that crap.''

''A bad mood would be an understatement.'' Pekoyama sighed. ''But it's not just about Fukawa and Yumeno.''

''What do you mean?'' The Yakuza asked with his arms crossed.

''I guess it's better to be blunt.'' Peko closed her eyes. ''I'm going to die in a few minutes.''

''What!?'' Kuzuryu asked in shock.

The swordsman turned around and lifted up her shirt, showing the tattoo of a red wolf on her back. ''This suddenly appeared this morning.'' She asked. ''Do you remember what Monokuma explained earlier? About the wolf ?''

''He said there was someone with a mark that had to off someone or else they'd get killed themselves, right?'' Fuyuhiko clenched his fist. ''I thought it was just some bullshit to get us all riled up.''

''I, too, thought it was a lie at first.'' Peko turned around once again to look at her master's eyes. ''But after Yumeno's execution, I have come to accept the reality of the situation. I'm sure Monokuma has something just as gruesome prepared for me, but it can't be helped. A weapon can't kill of its own volition. Not to mention, a class trial would put you at risk as well. I have no intention of acting.''

''Why the fuck are you telling me this only now!?'' Fuyuhiko yelled. ''The time limit is midnight!''

''I thought if I told you earlier, you might attempt to confront Monokuma or something similarly dangerous.'' The swordsman gave a sweet smile. ''I'm only telling you because I want to bid farewell. And apologize. This humble servant...will no longer be able to stand by your side.''

''Heh.'' Kuzuryu smirked. ''You underestimate me.''

Before she could react, he grabbed the sword she was holding by the edge and stabbed it in his own chest.

''Young Master!'' Pekoyama yellled. ''What are you doing!?''

''If you kill someone, you won't die, right?'' Fuyuhiko grabbed her wrist with his other hand and made her drove the katana deeper until it came out of his back. ''And if I'm out of the picture, then you won't have to worry about keeping me safe.''

''F-fuyuhiko!'' Peko let go of the sword and started crying.

''You're always going on about how you're just a tool following orders and all that annoying crap, right?'' The Ultimate Yakuza coughed blood. ''Well, if you like orders so goddamn much, here's one: Don't...you...fucking...die...'' With that, he dropped dead on the floor.

That was the end for Fuyuhiko Kuzuryu

Peko felt something itching on her back. It was probably the mark disappearing, but she couldn't be bothered to check. She just stood there, silently staring at the body, with tears rolling down her cheeks.

Half an hour later, she picked up her sword, her still watery eyes filled with absolute rage.

Day:March 23 rd Time:10:37 AM Location: Town Hall-Debate Chamber

''It seems she's not ready to admit it.'' Byakuya crossed his arms.

''Is it true?'' Chiaki asked as she stared at the floor. ''Peko...did you really kill Fuyuhiko?''

''And Junko. So brutally, too. '' Yasuhiro grimaced. ''I know she was crazy, but that's messed up.''

''Messed up?'' Pekoyama muttered. ''Nothing can ever be as messed up as putting us in this situation.''

Day:March 23 rd Time:4:30 AM Location: Hotel-5 th F-Junko's Room

Junko was looking at her broken nose in the mirror of the bathroom. It was bleeding again. She had not been able to fall sleep because of it. It was more of an annoyance than true despair, but still a pain in the ass.

Someone knocked loudly on the door. Who could it be at that time? Probably Mukuro being a pest as usual. She went to open the door and found Pekoyama standing outside, with a blank expression on her face.

''Good night, Pekoyama!'' Enoshima smiled and waved her right hand. Before she realized it, a katana was stabbed through it.

''Agh!'' Junko stepped back into the room. ''That's pretty rude for a greeting.''

''Stop this.'' Peko followed her and closed the door behind her. Then she pulled back her sword and stabbed Junko again, this time from her left breast to the shoulder. ''Get us all out of here.''

''Shit, that hurts.'' Enoshima gritted her teeth.

''If you want me stop, it's very easy.'' The swordsman drove her sword through the her left knee. ''Just tell me how to escape.''

''Pfft.'' The Ultimate Fashionista fell flat to the floor. ''There's no escape. And I can't stop it, either. Wouldn't be a very fun game if I could cheat like that, right?''

''I don't believe that.'' Peko pierced her right upper thigh. ''There has to be a way to stop in case of emergency. Nobody is insane enough to not leave one.''

''You're underestimating me.'' Junko laughed and coughed some blood. ''And even if there was something like that, I wouldn't tell you. I'd rather die than make things boring.''

''We'll see if you still think that when I'm done with you.'' Peko stabbed her right elbow.

This time, Enoshima didn't reply. The swordsman kept stabbing her. Making sure not to touch any vital organs, she skewered her everywhere she could: All through her limbs, safe spots in the torso and even her buttocks. At that point, Peko didn't know if she was still trying to get an answer out of her or simply letting all her rage out.

In any case, Junko had stopped moving. Was she already dead or just unconscious? Or maybe she was just pretending. Peko didn't really care. But she couldn't let anyone find her too soon. She noticed the key to the room in the nightstand. She picked it up and left the room.

Day:March 23 rd Time:10:38 AM Location: Town Hall-Debate Chamber

''Should we take that remark as a confession?'' Ogami asked.

''No.'' Peko replied coldly. ''You're making a mistake. If you're searching for someone with skills and cold blood, you should focus on Ikusaba. They probably planned the whole thing together.''

''We already know that's impossible.'' Ryoma pulled down his hat. '' It was someone from the 5th floor. You're just desperate now.''

''Who cares if she doesn't want to admit it?'' Hiyoko pouted. ''It's obvious it was her, right? Then let's vote already!''

''But...I don't want Peko to die.'' Mahiru put a hand to her chest.

''If she really did it, then we have to do it.'' Nanami sighed.

''You guys are just going in circles at this point.'' Monokuma said. ''So let's go ahead! It's voting time!''

''No!'' Peko yelled. ''Wait!''

Voting Results

Peko Pekoyama: 35

Mukuro Ikusba: 5

Abstention: 3

Day:March 23 rd Time:10:44 AM Location: Town Hall-Debate Chamber

''Congratulations!'' Monokuma shouted. ''You got it right again! The culprit that killed both Junko and Fuyuhiko is Peko Pekoyama, the Ultimate Swordsman.

''For real!?'' Ibuki yelled in tears. ''How can that be!?''

''Long story short, it was one of those sacrifice type of deal.'' Monokuma explained. ''See, remember that wolf I talked about this morning? Peko was the lucky soul to get the mark. Fuyuhiko practically forced her to kill him so she wouldn't die.''

''Wouldn't that make Kuzuryu the killer!?'' Taka clenched his fist.

''Technically speaking, both of them are guilty.'' Monokuma said. ''But Fuyuhiko is dead so it doesn't really matter. That rule about multiple killers only applies if they're alive in the trial.''

''I'm sorry for putting you through this.'' Pekoyama clenched her teeth. ''I tried to find a different solution at first. But once that failed, I decided to sacrifice all of you. I know it's a cruel thing to do, but I had no choice. Because...I was ordered to live.''

''It's understandable.'' Nagito said. ''You were only fighting for your hope.''

''Yeah, no hard feelings.'' Akane added.

''I always forgive pretty ladies.'' Teruteru commented.

''Well, I'm not gonna forgive you!'' Hiyoko shouted. ''It's my life we're talking about here! I can't just accept someone putting it danger, no matter the reason.''

''Yeah, fuck that!'' Miu yelled. ''This isn't an accident like with Himiko. And now we know executions are fucking real. I'm too smart and sexy to die in this shithole!''

''I agree with that sentiment.'' Celeste smiled. ''I feel no sympathy whatsoever.''

''Stop that!'' Mondo yelled. ''None of us have any fucking idea how Peko feels! For her it was kill or be killed! Can any of you say for sure what you'd do in that situation? 'Cause I sure as hell can't.''

''Struggling to survive is merely the nature of life.'' Gundham crossed his arms.''

''It doesn't matter anyway!'' Kaito clenched his fist. ''It's over already. There's no point in bashing Peko now.''

''If you really wanted to escape, why did you kill Junko?'' Maki asked. ''Nobody would have suspected you of killing Fuyuhiko. You could have gotten away with it.''

''I couldn't just...let it be.'' Peko said in tears. ''Fuyuhiko is dead. Someone had to...pay for it.''

''Wouldn't Junko have died along with the rest, anyway?'' Sayaka asked.

''I never claimed it was a particularly rational decision.'' Peko grabbed her sword. ''But I needed to do it with my own hands.''

''Well, I hope you had fun.'' Monokuma laughed. ''Because it's gonna cost you a lot. It's punishment time!''

''I have no intention of dying here!'' Peko jumped out of her seat just before the trapdoor under it opened. However, a mechanical arm came out of it, grabbed her by the ankle and dragged her down.

GAME OVER

Peko has been found guilty.

Time for the Punishment

Peko was standing in the middle of a prairie with her sword on her back. In front of her stood a Monokuma, also with a sword on its back. They glared at each other for a while and then pulled out their swords out of their sheaths and started running towards the other.

The 1,000,000 Cuts

Ultimate Swordsman

Peko Pekoyama's Execution: Executed

They both slashed at each other and ended up with their backs facing. Monokuma's head went off flying and Peko proudly sheathed her sword.

''You're already dead.'' The disembodied head suddenly said.

''Wha...'' Before Peko could finish the question, small cuts started appearing on the tip of her fingers and slicing tiny pieces of flesh off. They kept going upwards, dicing her fingers and then her palms, her wrists and her arms. At the same time, the same thing began happening from her toes up. Peko started screaming in pain. Her left ear and her right eye were sliced as well, along with several pieces of her cheeks. When the cuts reached her torso, small chunks of her chest, her back and her abdomen started flying off as well.

When it was over, Peko's sword was lying on the ground, on top of the messy pile of minced meat and blood that used to be the Ultimate Swordsman.

That was the end for Peko Pekoyama.

Day:March 23 rd Time:10:57 AM Location: Town Hall-Debate Chamber

''I thought I'd be ready the second time, but I wasn't.'' Hifumi was covering his mouth, trying not to puke.

''This is unforgivable.'' Tenko bit her lips.

''May Atua guide her soul.'' Angie said.

''Is there even a soul there after that?'' Tsumugi asked with a grimace.

''This is so unfair.'' Chiaki put on her hoodie. ''Because Peko was the wolf, her only way to survive was getting away with murder. A game that isn't fair and isn't fun...is no game at all.''

''Says you.'' Monokuma pouted. ''It's lots of fun for me, anyway.''

''But it is over, correct?'' Keebo asked. ''Enoshima was the one organizing it and she's dead now.''

''No Junko, no game.'' Gonta nodded.

''You wish.'' The bear laughed. ''I'm the one ruling this place. Didn't I tell you I'm like a god? Just because you killed my mommy doesn't mean I gotta stop. In fact, it's just getting started!''

''So we're gonna have to do that again?'' Hina asked in tears. ''I can't take it.''

''Don't think about that now, Hina.'' Makoto sighed. ''We just have to make sure another killing doesn't happen.''

''Makoto is right!'' Kaede shouted with tears rolling down her cheeks. ''For everyone who's died, we have to...''

''Cut it out already!'' Hiyoko said with a glare. ''I'm sick of all that hopeful crap! You said the same thing yesterday and look how that turned out!''

''That's a valid point.'' Celeste nodded. ''It doesn't matter how optimistically we declare our intentions and hopes for the future, it's meaningless if we can uphold them.''

''There's no point in speeches.'' Maki said coldly. ''We should all just try to survive however we can.''

''Yeah, let's get it over with already.'' Oma sighed and looked at Kirumi. ''I'm tired, mommy.''

And so, everyone started leaving the Debate Chamber. Hinata was the last one. He was still trying to grasp what had happened. Peko killing Fuyuhiko? That was completely unthinkable. And yet, it was an undeniable reality. That was the truth of that island, of that game. If that could happen, then nothing was too twisted for that place. There was an infinite amount of terrible possibilities. Hajime was starting to realize the true meaning of despair.

Day:March 23 rd Time:3:14 PM Location: Restaurant-Kitchen

Nagito and Kaede were washing the dishes. He'd been hearing occasional soft sniffles coming from her for a while.

''Is something wrong?'' He asked.

''N-no.'' Akamatsu wiped a tear off her eye. ''It's just...Suichi is trying so hard to help, even if it's hurting him inside. I wanted to try and help too, but all I came up with was some vapid attempt at a speech. I thought I could keep everyone's spirits just a little higher, but Saionji and the others were right. There's no way that's possible after all that's happened. I'm stupid to even think otherwise.''

''There's nothing stupid about the way you acted.'' Komaeda put a hand on her shoulder. ''Clinging onto hope is the only way we can really make it through this. If a bad situation is all it takes for someone to fall into despair, then their hope was only an illusion to begin with. We're the students of Hope's Peak Academy, the future hope of humanity. We should be better than that.''

''Even so, that's still a tall order.'' Kaede sighed. ''We're talking about people dying. Not everyone can handle that.''

''But you can, right?'' Nagito smiled. ''Your actions say so. That's why you've kept refusing to accept the killing game. I think your hope is one of the strongest here. There's Chiaki and Naegi, too, but they don't have your forceful spirit and leadership. They always follow your lead when you get together as class reps. That's why you're the key to defeating Junko.''

''But Junko is already dead...'' The pianist raised an eyebrow.

''I know.'' Komaeda put a finger to his chin. ''But as long as Monokuma exists, so does her will, right? In a way, that thing is the embodiment of Enoshima's despair. Our enemy is despair itself. That's why... we need hope to win. So you can't act all depressed now. If you can stay strong and not break all the way through to the end, then maybe everyone else will follow your lead and stay hopeful.''

''The end?'' Kaede crossed her arms in thought. ''I guess this whole thing has to end eventually, huh? I'm not sure why you think so highly of me, but...thanks for telling me all that. I've made a decision. From now on, I refuse to believe that there's no hope! No one else is going to die! I'll stick to that idea, no matter what happens! Even if another tragedy happens, I'll never accept it as the norm! I'll keep believing in my partners from Hope's Peak and I'll do everything in my power to make everyone else believe, too! No matter what, I'll never fell to despair! I won't let Monokuma win!''

''Well said.'' Komaeda smirked.

Day:March 23 rd Time:4:15 PM Location:Hotel-Reception

Ryoma entered the reception and found Ikusaba coming from the other side, carrying a backpack that was bigger than her. It didn't look like the weight was a problem for her, though.

''So you've been packing your stuff, huh?'' The tennis pro asked. ''You're leaving?''

''I'll live by myself in the woods from now on.'' The soldier replied. ''I think it's the best for everyone. After all I've done, if I stay here it would just make everyone tense, even myself.''

''So that's why you left the debate chamber so suddenly?'' Ryoma adjusted his hat. ''That really surprised me. I thought you were gonna lose it and try to kill Pekoyama yourself or something.''

''I though I'd be angry, too.'' Mukuro looked down. ''But I just...wasn't. Because...it doesn't really matter, does it? Junko is dead anyway, so why should I care who killed her? Why should I care about anything? I'm not even sad, either. I just feel...empty. Like I have no purpose anymore.''

''Heh.'' Ryoma smiled sadly. ''I know that feel so well. But remember what I told you earlier. Was Junko really the only thing that matters to you?''

''I've been thinking about it.'' Ikusaba closed her eyes in thought. ''Maybe there's someone else. But...I'm not sure I have the right to pursue those feelings. But they're there regardless, so maybe there's still something I can do with my life after all. That's why...I've decided to stay alive for now.''

''Well then.'' Hoshi pulled his candy out of his mouth. ''Good luck with that.''

Day:March 23rd Time:5:16 PM Location:Gaming House-Arcade

Chiaki, Keebo and Makoto were playing a fighting game. It was only for two players, so they were taking turns, with the winner staying for the following match. Of course, the Ultimate Gamer had won every single one of them. Usually, at that point, Nanami would have already politely retired to allow others to play. She enjoyed watching people play games too, after all. But she hadn't said a word in over three hours. Currently she was playing against Keebo, still staring silently at the screen.

''Are you alright, Chiaki?'' Makoto finally asked.

''No.'' The gamer replied. ''I feel terrible. I think. I'm not sure someone like me can actually feel.''

''Of course you can.'' Keebo muttered. ''It's obvious you're sad.''

''It hurts more when it's your own classmates that died, huh?'' Makoto looked down.

''It's not like they're even really my classmates.'' Chiaki sighed. ''I do have all of the real Chiaki's memories, but it's not like I've actually experienced them. I just now they happened. And she didn't even know Fuyuhiko and Peko that well. They weren't very sociable. It was only recently that they made their connection public. But still...I feel like I've failed to properly take care of them as the class rep. Not that I'm their real class rep to begin with. She must be really mad at me for letting her friends die like that.''

''You mean the real Chiaki, right?'' Naegi scratched his head. ''Jeez, this is so confusing. But you of all people should know she's not the type to get angry. Wherever she is, I'm sure she thinks you're doing a good job in her place. No one has been able to tell the difference so far.''

''But I'm not her.'' Chiaki landed the final hit and put her controller down. ''I'm not even a real human.''

''So what if you aren't?'' Keebo put down his own controller and turned to look her in the eyes. ''Don't you feel things, just like a human, even though you don't have a heart? Can't you think, just like human, even though you don't have brain? You're just the same as me. We may be different, but we're still people. You're fine being what you are. You don't need to be someone else.''

''Woah.'' Chiaki smiled. ''I didn't know you were so deep.''

''I think a lot about these type of things, okay?'' The robot blushed.

''Well, thank you.'' Nanami put a hand to her chest. ''That really made me feel better. You too, Makoto.''

''You're welcome.'' Naegi replied with a sheepish smile. ''Cheering people up seems to be the only thing I'm good at anyway.''

Day:March 23rd Time:6:17 PM Location:Sports Complex-Gym

Tenko and Akane were fighting while Hina and Sakura watched them from the bleachers.

Owari jumped in the air and tried to kick the aikido master in the face, but Chabashira grabbed her by the ankle and pinned her against the floor. ''You're fast, and strong, and your movements are so wild that they're hard to predict.'' She said. ''But you leave yourself completely open if you just jump in like that.''

''You seem to have a lot more energy today.'' The Ultimate Martial artist commented with a smile.

''I guess.'' Tenko sighed. ''To be honest, I wasn't feeling well this morning. But when Saionji and the others started putting Kaede down after the trial, I realized I don't wanna be like that. I don't want to become cynical and gloomy. That's not who I am. If I stop being myself because of her, I'm sure Himiko would be annoyed.''

''But it's really hard to just accept all of this. '' Aoi bit her lips. ''It's amazing how Makoto and Akamatsu can still try to be optimistic in this situation. Celeste was wrong. I think having people like them here really helps ease the mind a little.''

''Well, I'm still pissed. '' Akane yelled in tears. ''Fuyuhiko and Peko are dead because of that crazy bitch, and I can't even kick her ass because she's also dead.''

''It is a lot to take in.'' Sakura nodded. ''But there's nothing else we can do besides moving forward.''

Mondo had dragged Nekomaru to a corner to talk in private.

''Listen.'' The biker said. ''I don't know how to say this, so I'll just be blunt: I've fucked Akane.''

''So that's what you two were up to!?'' Nekomaru laughed. ''Why bring it up now, though!? You said it was important!''

''So you don't give a shit?'' Mondo raised an eyebrow. ''I though you two had something going on.''

''We do!'' Nidai yelled. ''But it's nothing too serious! Akane is not the type of person that can be handled by one person alone! She's got way too much energy for that!''

''We can hear you, you know.'' Hina said. Mondo looked back to see the girls looking at them.

''You shouldn't talk about things like that where everyone can hear it.'' Tenko frowned. ''You degenerate males just always have to boast like that, don't you? Shame on you.''

''It's not my fucking fault that this asshole doesn't have a goddamn indoor voice!'' Mondo yelled.

''Like you're one to talk.'' Aoi muttered.

Day:March 23rd Time:8:19 PM Location: Hotel-4thF-Tsumugi's Room

Shirogane and Komaeda were sitting on the bed.

''So what now?'' She asked. ''Junko is dead.''

''We always knew this was a possibility.'' Nagito shrugged. ''She's always had a dangerous tendency to bring attention to herself. But the battle between hope and despair must continue! I don't really know what Monokuma is going to do, but I have some plans for the future.''

''Me too!'' Tsumugi clasped her hands together. ''I've thought up a lot of ideas that could make this story really exciting!''

''Good.'' Nagito smiled. ''Then the game is still just starting.''

''Should we tell Mukuro about all this?''

Komaeda shook his head. ''Without Junko, she'd be too difficult to control. We shouldn't tell her more than what she already knows. She might betray us.''

''But she won't betray Junko.'' The cosplayer raised a finger. ''So at the very least she won't spill the beans about us.''

Suddenly, they started to hear the sound of the speakers throughout the town. ''Good evening and apologies for bothering you.'' A voice said. ''I'm Kirumi Tojo, from Class C. As you know, we've suffered two tragedies back to back that resulted in the deaths of five people. Of course, this is unacceptable. Mr. Ishimaru from Class A and I have been discussing the matter at length, and we've concluded that the reason these terrible events couldn't be prevented is a lack of organization. That is why we intend to create a Student Council that can act as a governing body from now. Anyone interested in joining may reunite with us in Classroom A of the school tomorrow at 10 AM sharp. That is all. Thank you for listening.''

''That's so great to hear!'' Nagito started laughing maniacally. ''It looks like we're not the only ones trying to do their best! I don't deserve to be here with the rest of you! The students of Hope's Peak Academy truly live up to the name! I'm sure the Ultimate Hope will be born from them! Hahahahahahahaha!''