Danganronpa: Holy Bloody Salvation Chapter 22, a dangan ronpa kibou no gakuen to zetsubou no koukousei fanfic

The Thread Separating Love and Despair Is a Fine Line.

A classroom.

That was the first thing I noticed about this place, even someone with my circumstances could tell that much from this particular room. There was the chalkboard and its respective desks and chairs any room designed for education owns, nothing out of the ordinary.

Only that was far from being the truth.

The reason why?

Blood.

Everywhere my eyes could explore there was at least one spot dirtied by the red life substance, although its color seemed…rusted and of dry texture, signaling that the murders that took place here have become past history since quite a while ago.

Because yes, more than a single person died here, the multiple white chalk marks with the shape of bodies on the floor tell that much…

Those same scattered chairs and desks weren't spared any mercy from whatever bloody storm disturbed this place. The ground and the walls weren't any different and in a twisted sense of dramatization and mockery, a corner of the room had the words 'Eye for an eye' written on the same blood covering this place.

There was also the stench, it reeked so much of decomposition that if I wasn't used to this kind of smell, it would've made my nose flare up, perhaps also to throw up in a worst-case scenario. It was also worth noticing that no doubt prolonged stays in this place were a sure way to catch a disease.

All in all, if there was a word to describe this place, for more than the reasons seen in plain sight, that would be: Tragic.

This was a place where tragedies took place.

Which I suppose makes it a lot weirder that I'm sitting at a desk as if there was nothing wrong with this place. Although it can't be helped, after all, I'm…I'm waiting…waiting for…someone? Yeah, I…I think that was the case…

I also think I chose to wait for this someone here because for similar yet also completely different reasons. Paradoxical as that sounded, this place was special for both of us…I think. Although what were those reasons eluded me in their totality.

Weird, I know.

Any more musings I could have about this classroom were put to a halt when the only entrance got slammed open. Quickly following that, a figure abruptly got inside. I know that whoever just entered was a person…but that was about it, any other details that could tell me more about this mysterious individual were blocked from my sight, though it would be more accurate to say that it was as if their entire existence had been ripped off the reality and in its place, there was only static.

For some strange reason, I'm not finding such a sight…well, strange. If anything, as soon as my eyes locked with where theirs should be, the first feeling that come over me was that of fondness, a sense of warm attachment that I didn't think I was capable of feeling towards someone before meeting this individual. It was different from the one I had towards Maki, not higher or lower, just different. I knew there was a word that not only simplified but also perfectly described just the same, if not better this sentiment, but my mind just refused to enlighten me on it.

But just as fast as it came, it receded back when, impossible as it should be with a lack of one, I observed the expression on this person's face. Anxiousness, stress, a haunted look on its face, there was also a not small amount of guilt on it, combined with just as much wariness…towards me. No doubt expecting a confrontation to happen.

The most cynical corner of my mind wanted to scoff at that and would've actually done so if it were anyone but this person. Instead, a variety of negative emotions swarmed my mind. Sadness, dejection, betrayal. A part of me was also beginning to develop a feeling of angriness…which died just as fast as it began. Try as I might, I just couldn't have it in me to feel any resentment toward whomever this person was. Besides…some corner of my mind always knew things would lead to this, so it would make me a hypocrite, a bigger one than I already am, when it was me in the first place who allowed all of this to happen.

Yes, it is I who allowed…

…Who allowed…

…Allowed…

…

…Huh? That was weird…I…I allowed…

…What did I allow…?

…

…Regardless of…of that. Among all the sentiments flowing through me, the one that made all others pale in comparison was…

…Resignation.

Even at this moment, I was holding on to the hope that whatever was going to happen, didn't. Such hope died the moment I saw what this person was carrying in their hand, which just like this individual's silhouette, I could only see as nothing but a bunch of static.

Anyhow, as I mused about this, our 'gazes', for a lack of a better term, stood locked between each other. I would have called it a competition of wills…if it wasn't because not long after it happened, the person on the other end of the room averted their eyes away from my own, losing their guts with just that much.

I couldn't help giving an audible sigh that lasted until I noticed that such a reaction made this person flinch, and not wanting to make things more uncomfortable for them, I decided to drop it.

My priorities were as messed up as ever, huh?

Once our 'greetings' were done, and with the rightful cautiousness one should take against me, this person began to approach in my direction at a turtle pace.

Although any plans this individual had, were put at a temporary halt the moment I said something to them. I know that something came out of my mouth because I felt it move, but what did exactly say will remain a mystery. Just like the appearance of the person in front of me, from my perspective, the only sound I was making was even more static.

Whatever it was, though, seemed to have worked as I noticed that their grip on the object they were holding loosened partially while hurrying their pace toward me.

This whole ordeal grew weirder with each passing moment. It was completely obvious that static man 'Because it is getting tiring not having a way to identify it…' had clear intentions of hurting me, and instead of retaliating against them…

…All I did next was attempting to talk with them.

Oh, there were some important questions in between our talk…but not even once I was trying to lower their guard, or make them reconsider their actions. For some reason I knew that things have taken the point of no return and although this person's expressions were making it hard to believe, they had their mind set on going with whatever it is they were planning, disappointing as that was.

When it came to the possibility of confronting them…well, this person for sure appears to be just as confused as I am about my lack of resistance.

…

…Although…

…It would be a lie if I said that I wasn't aware of the reason. I did know why I was just opting to talk without scheming against them, confusing as that reason was.

I just couldn't.

The grim truth was clear to me, I KNEW that if I were to put protest, our confrontation would end with one of us not making it to see a new tomorrow, and…the possibility that static man was the one ending on the bad side of that deal, regardless of the mixed and negative opinions I'm holding towards the individual in front of me, the mere idea of them dying straight up makes want to vomit.

I didn't even know I was capable of feeling like that, at least not to this degree, but lo and behold, this mysterious figure proved I could indeed be a vessel of such disgusting emotion.

In an attempt to distract me from those thoughts, it appears somewhere in between our 'chat' I changed subjects towards something…else.

Whatever it was though, it appeared to be a sensitive subject, as there were a few moments in which the sound of static receded, a clear signal that they became silent with a conflicted expression on their face 'Seriously, how I am noticing all of this?'. Nevertheless, after what seemed to be minutes of internal struggle, the static man conceded to my wish and began to talk.

It seemed I immediately regretted asking about it, because the moment this person was done talking, my mind shifted onto the idea of them killing me sounding like a way more appealing alternative thanks to whatever they gave me for an answer.

Curious.

Even more curious was that I took that as my cue to surrender myself, whether it was to make things easier for them, or end my torment at a quicker pace, I didn't know, might as well it could have been both.

There was another exchange of words, but not even the feelings I was using to get a gist of context helped here, what I did understood, though, was how tense I became the moment static man got behind me.

Was it out of instinct at having my back exposed to a person, or was it something different?

While doing so, it appears that things weren't done getting a little bit more bizarre, because while this was happening, static man was sputtering…something, I couldn't point a finger at what it was but I could notice that there was again the regret and guilt, and for some reason, I had a feeling that not even they were understanding their own words.

It was at this moment that I opted to say one last thing. At first, it appeared I was intended in revealing something to this individual…but I changed my mind at the last second because whatever I was about to say, it felt like it would only work as a burden for them, something it seems that not even for the good of me, I could allow.

I'm truly a lost cause, aren't I?

Instead…I gave them a promise, an affirmation that neither of us was entirely convinced would truly be, but right at this very moment, that didn't matter in the slightest. I have no idea what I told them, but it worked like a charm in reassuring that person…which is why they quickly got into resuming what they were doing.

I didn't had to look back to notice that the object in their hands was getting closer to me, neither was I interested in observing what was about to happen, so I just closed my eyes while internally fighting tooth and nail to suppress the panic 'And fear…' growing inside me. The small mercy, if it could even be considered that, was that static man didn't mess around in prolonging this, as such, the sharp pain in my neck came not so long after.

I didn't whimper, no matter how much it hurt…in more than a single way.

I didn't cry, even if sadness was consuming me.

I didn't scream, even if despair was overwhelming my very soul.

Instead, I just woke up.

Ding Dong Bing Bong!

"Good morning, everyone! It is now 7 a.m. and nighttime is officially over! Time to rise and shine! Get ready to greet another beee-yutiful day!"

…

…Usually, it would be at this moment when I made a remark regarding the annoying morning announcement our captor is insistent on tormenting us with.

Too bad my mind was busy with actually concerning matters, huh?

Now, putting aside the exceptions coming from the developments of the past few days 'Yesterday being one, if not the most notorious example of said exceptions…', I like to see myself as someone pragmatic, with most of the time putting my focus on the reality of my environment rather than relying on my feelings, superstitions, or something as mundane as hoping for things to turn for the best on their own volition.

With that being said…try as I might, I just couldn't ignore the dream from which I just woke up, more so because rather than feeling like an actual dream, it was more…tangible, some would say real as if instead of nothing but a combination of delusions, I was recalling an experience for the second time in my life. A déjà vu of sorts.

Oh, I know that it wasn't real, I sure as hell would've remembered at least a single detail about it with how extraordinary, to not say bizarre 'Or disturbing…', each aspect of it was. Besides even if I compared my only experience with a classroom outside of this place with that dream…no, nothing about it rang a bell.

Anyhow.

Even if I was aware of its lack of veracity, I can't part away from the feeling that there was something important about it, and it was bothering me that no matter how hard I concentrated, nothing truly meaningful came to me.

Perhaps…I should ask Hiro about it? I mean, he is the Ultimate Clairvoyant, maybe he had an understanding of these kinds of things?

…

…Wow, last night truly made me desperate for answers if I am actually considering asking that guy for any advice.

Speaking of last night…

Ugh.

As if yesterday in general wasn't a mixed bag already, just thinking about the events that transpired a few hours ago was more than enough to give me a headache. Sure, some good and interesting things came out of it, but just as well I can say that the contrary was the case too. Putting aside the contents of that letter 'Try as I might to ignore them, I know I can't procrastinate that for long…', it appears I wore out my stay within the secret room, and in consequence, I acquired the unwanted attention of Monokuma.

How good it would have been if things ended at just that…but no, there was also the conversation I had with said monochrome bear. Recalling that part in specific was forming a lump in my stomach, worst of all was that even if I wanted to, acting as if didn't happen, ignoring what he told me, or just straight up calling him a liar was not on the table. No matter how tempting any of those options were, it was not possible.

If what that thing said truly holds any spec of veracity…

…

…Sigh.

I suppose that beginning the day in such a terrible way was the price to pay for my recent actions.

Or is karma finally charging me what he is owned for the past decade?

Whatever the case is, lying in bed wasn't going to do me any favors to improve my mood.

Fortunately, though, I knew what would certainly do.

After ringing the bell beside the door, I contently waited for that person to come in, all the while, just thinking of her was enough to make the stressful lump within me disappear.

Much to my relief, today took even less time than yesterday for her to answer my call, as I could already see the door opening, where not so long after I saw her stepping outside with a smile on her face the moment she caught sight of me, and…and…

…

…Eh?

…What the…?

The person in front of me looked just exactly as yesterday, of that there was no doubt. Her boots, her skirt, the cardigan, even that strawberry blonde wig 'Which I had to fight the urge to scowl at…' and the rest of her attire was there as always had been.

But the moment I caught sight of her face…my breath hitched in my throat.

Like her attire, her face was the same as I remember. Her 'Precious' freckles, those narrow 'Yet captivating' light violet eyes of hers; no different than the most treasured amethyst, that 'Irresistible looking' small mouth of hers, and last but not least, her 'Adorable' oval-shaped face.

She looked no different than before…

Then…why?

"Oh! Morning, Shigaraki! How's it goin'?" Why I can't help but think that she is ten times…no, that doesn't do it justice, a hundred times more beautiful than before?

I knew she was attractive, even back during the first days here when I refused to see how attached I became to her, it was an irrefutable fact. But this? This was a whole different deal altogether. It was as if my eyes were finally beginning to see a truth that had been eluding me so far.

W-What…what is this…?

"…"

"…Shigaraki?"

"…"

"…Huh? Is…is something wrong?"

"…"

"Shigaraki!"

"E-Eh?" That brought me out of my…stupor? Entrancement? Whatever the case was, hearing the urgency in her voice brought me back to the present, with a lump once again forming within the deeps of my body as I saw the concerned look on her face "What…what's wrong?"

At my question, she gave an incredulous look "Wait, are ya for real? After I called your name, you just stood there doing nothing but staring for an entire minute! You were, like, a statue of sorts! It should be me who should be asking that question! What was that about?"

Wait, was I out for that long? I recognize that I was just standing there for a moment…but it felt like between eight or ten seconds at most, not that long as she pointed out.

Though now that I have regained my senses, I couldn't help feeling a growing concern at what just happened.

I suppose that it was inevitable to recognize how attractive someone was when that individual truly is, that was why I didn't feel too uncomfortable every time I noticed the charm she carries herself with even though she was my friend. As long as I did so within moderation, it should've been fine.

But what ran through my mind was a whole different ordeal. I was not entirely sure what it was, but its intensity was enough for me to recognize that it was wrong to have it towards whom I consider my best friend. I was not an expert on the subject of friendship, but even so, I think it was the right course of action to feel some shame about it.

…Which is why I couldn't help an apologetic look "I…I'm sorry, I think I just… spaced out? Something like that…"

"Something like that…?" She both sounded and looked unconvinced "Hmm, are ya sure isn't something to worry about?"

"I believe so" Not that I could blame her for her concern, if anything, that only was developing a funny feeling within me "In any case, I'm sorry about that, Enoshima. I don't―"

! ! !

…

…H-Huh?

What…what the heck!?

I…I just imagined that…right?

…

…Enoshima.

There it was again, the moment I thought about her name, an irking feeling crawled up to my brain, just like when I called her by name out loud and there was a revolting sensation as I spelled every syllable of her name, it felt as if sand was coming out of my mouth.

Now that I think about it…haven't I been avoiding using her name so far? Just using 'Her' or 'That person' when referring to her. Besides, the more my gaze focused on her attire, something about it, just…it just clicked wrong with me, I would dare say I am…I'm finding…it…o…obno…obnoxious…?

W-What…?

I…I-I am finding Enoshima a…a-annoying…?

N-No…it's…it's not that! I refuse to believe that! I-I mean, when I look at her, at what truly counts as her, nothing about those confusing emotions seems to be there. Her face was still as charming as I pointed out just a few moments ago, when I hear her 'Sweet, oh so addictingly sweet' voice, it does nothing but brighten my mood, and the desire to protect the person in front of me remains just as, if not stronger, than ever.

There was no way I would feel aversion towards her in any way!

…

…E-Even so…

This was wrong, so wrong, terribly wrong, disgustingly wrong, despairfully wrong, wrong wrong wrong wrong wrongwrongwrongwrongwrongwrongwrongwrongwrong wrongwrongwrongwrongwrongwrongwrongwrongwrong―

"SHIGARAKI!?"

I let out a shuddering gasp as I felt my body being jerked back and forth by a now scared-looking E-Enoshima 'Again!?', and no doubt my wide and shaken eyes weren't doing any favors towards comforting her.

Shame and guilt quickly consumed me as it appeared I had to rely on her once again to get out of that tormenting limbo I called my inner self. When she finally noticed I was once again paying attention to her, calming her just by the tiniest of fractions, I didn't waste any time reassuring her "I-I'm fine!"

So much for acting reassuring, huh?

"Yeah, sorry, but that is a big load of crap!" Of course, if she wasn't convinced during my first spacing out from just a few moments ago, there was no way she would believe me now that I showed her what was most surely my equivalent of a panic attack "Even if you hadn't a collected face more often than not, that expression you were making was anything but 'fine', so I will ask you again, and this time I won't be satisfied until you give me a good answer, what the hell was that?"

The self-depreciation furthered as my lips pursed into a thin line as I thought of how to answer that question in a way that wouldn't mortify her.

Fortunately for me, she didn't pressure me, most probably understanding that this wasn't something I was used dealing with.

After mulling about how should I reply to her back for a pair of minutes, I began to speak "…I…I suppose it was stress"

The stern look she was giving me softened at hearing that "Stress…?"

"Mhm" I said with a slow nod "I…I guess that after everything that has happened so far, just…I don't know…perhaps it finally caught up with me"

I wasn't being completely honest with her, although not because I didn't wanted to. It was just that…I straight-up had no idea what happened to me. It was true that I AM feeling stressed 'In no small part thanks to that conversation I had with Monokuma…' and although I slept enough to not feel tired, the feeling of restlessness was there…but this and that were different things. Stress had never been a factor I had issues dealing with, and honestly speaking, neither I was feeling like that was responsible for how weird I'd been acting in the past minutes. I simply said that because it was the closest contender to a genuine answer I could give her.

Regardless of that, though, it appears she accepted my answer…although not in the way I would've wanted, if that look full of shame forming on her face was any indication "…Oh, I…I see. I guess I have been too much of a burden, huh?"

What!?

"W-Wait, Enoshima!" I ignored the taste of bile her name was now producing within me in favor of correcting the misunderstanding I stupidly caused "That's not true at all!"

"B-But you said―"

"I know what I said!" Even if I was now regretting ever thinking about it "But please don't take it the wrong way. I meant every single thing I said yesterday, I will never, I swear, never see you as a burden"

I wasn't used to reassuring people, and even less to being so emotional about it, but I couldn't give less of a damn if it was for the sake of the girl in front of me.

"Right, you said something similar yesterday, didn't you?" There was a look of what I could only assume was fondness as she said that…but not so long after, it turned into a conflicted expression on her face "A-Are you sure? I…I just…I don't know…"

"I am sure about it" I said softly but with firm assurance in my voice, even if on the inside I was, not for the first time, ashamed that I have mortified her in some way "Actually…if anything, it is me who should be apologizing for worrying you like that. I guarantee you I feel better now, and I will promise you that I will try to not cause you trouble again"

"Eh? N-No, you don't have to go that far for me, g-geez! Although…regarding that stuff from just a moment ago…" There was some justifiable skepticism and concern in her voice "…What happened wasn't normal, like, at all, so rather than promising to not worry me…promise me that you will take care of yourself, alright? You said that you…you c-care about me…but that's also the same for me! I…y-your also important to me, so promise me that, o-okay?"

What she said…how she did it, with the genuineness of it and how her face lit up to a pinkish red tone, I…I don't know why but just hearing that was enough for the temperature in my face, more specifically around my cheeks, to heat up.

"O-Okay…" Was the only awkward response I could muster.

This…what is this...?

After both of us recovered from that awkward 'To not say inappropriate on my part…' incident, we headed towards the dining hall for the daily meeting. Well, that and also because I was genuinely hungry, with no doubt E…Eno…with Enoshima 'Dammit…' also being a similar cause, with neither of us having the opportunity for a proper meal yesterday.

Once we stepped inside, both of us were greeted by the usual early risers within the group…well, with the exception of Taka who was nowhere to be found. If I was being honest, out of everyone, him not being here the first hour in the morning was noticeable enough to consider it an anomaly.

I couldn't help narrowing my eyes slightly at that.

It wasn't like I felt concerned for him, but as I pointed out before, this wasn't normal behavior from the Moral Compass. So, I couldn't help but wonder if something happened to him.

…

…Well, for now, my priorities were on getting into the kitchen and preparing me and E-Enoshima something to eat. It was possible that he got himself busy bothering some of the tardiest bunch so to make sure everyone was here. Not like I saw him on the way here, but even so I shouldn't discard that scenario.

Regardless, some minutes following that train of thought, I was done getting the food ready…which to the surprise of neither of us, they were more sandwiches. Although so far, she had been reassuring me that it was fine and that if anything, she was grateful enough I was taking my time to make something for her in the first place, that didn't stop me from feeling embarrassed and self-conscious about it.

Geez, I truly need to learn how to make something else.

By the time we came back from the kitchen and took a seat, I noticed that almost everyone was there, and from what I could see, in a considerably better mood than the previous daily meeting.

Ogami and Hina were cheerfully talking about training regimes and swimming exercises, to the surprise of no one. Naegi, Sayaka, and Leon were acting less awkward with each other in comparison to yesterday, and from the looks of things, they were even having a conversation of sorts. Something about musical careers and pointers on how to handle instruments 'I know I have already pointed it out, but those three truly are beginning to get along at a surprisingly fast pace, aren't they?'. Both surprisingly and not so much, Fujisaki and Yamada were talking about something too. I wasn't paying that much attention to them, although based on the fact that I heard the Fanfic Creator say something about reincarnating as a slime, I could guess that it had something to do with anime.

Hmm, I wonder if Copycat had something to do with me catching up on that? Probably, I do not doubt every single member of the Holy Salvation Society knows a thing or two about anime and manga thanks to that girl.

Besides those people, the rest were minding their own business either finishing their food or just peacefully brooding. All in all, today pointed towards being an unusually calm day…

If it weren't for Taka or Togami of course, seeing that neither of them was here yet, which is peculiar, to say the least. Perhaps not so much because of Togami, as it isn't that weird of him to left everyone waiting, but Taka's absence was certainly just a matter of time before it turned into a worrying factor amongst the group.

…

Anyhow…while continuing with my food, my mind drifted towards a subject that I admittedly doubt will I get out of my head anytime soon.

Mukuro Ikusaba.

The 17th student.

The Ultimate Soldier.

It would so easy to believe that unlike the rest of us, she lucked out and wasn't captured…but the cynic in me couldn't accept that theory, not with a talent as awes―dangerous as hers.

With my gaze shifting between each one of my classmates, I wonder…what if she was one of them? What if she had been hiding from all of us in plain sight, disguising herself as someone else this whole time?

What if she was the traitor I've been suspecting about this whole time?

Until I get proven wrong, I will hold onto the belief that Mukuro Ikusaba was in this place just like us, and whether she was innocent or not of conspiring with Monokuma…

Well, given the circumstances, I was more inclined to believe the latter.

"Um, guys, don't you guys think it's weird Taka hasn't arrived yet?"

I looked up from my plate as Maizono made that question.

Sure enough, as I and the rest of the group looked around, it was evident that the Ultimate Moral Compass was yet to appear.

"…Yeah, that guy's missing…" Owada said with narrowed eyes once he was done scanning the dining hall "…Him, and I can't see that bastard of Togami either, what the friggin' hell? What's up with those morons?"

The Baseball Star nodded in agreement "I'm not that surprised with that glasses dude, the jackass could easily just be making us wait for him to piss us off, seems to be the only thing that makes him show any sign of happiness…" I saw Fukawa giving Leon a dirty look at that, but overall, nobody was disagreeing with that, to the surprise of no one "But Mr. Proper School Environment? I dunno about ya people, but I feel like that isn't normal"

Some members of the group grew concerned faces at that, all the while facing each other, looking for any answer between the people seated with them.

Although, before the worry morphed into panic, a peculiar 'To no say creepy…' laugh was heard.

"My, my, there's no need to get all riled up people. Knowing Mr. Ishimaru, I'm pretty sure that he is acting according to his self-imposed duties trying to get the King of Tardiness out of bed" 'Celeste' commented.

That seemed to be enough to calm people down. After all, what the Ultimate Gambler said sounded exactly like something someone like Taka would do.

"Yeah!" Enoshima 'Sigh, that feeling isn't gone yet, but I better ignore it…' also chimed in to give her own piece "That guy doesn't seem to know what personal space is and it's obsessed with punctuality, so it kinda makes sense he would be bothering someone who is already well known for attending late to these meetings we have. Anyhow, I feel like we can wait a bit more before going in search of those two knuckleheads…right?"

While I was the first one to do so, Ogami along with some others gave their respective nods at her "Indeed, it is too early to root ourselves into unnecessary worries. I do not believe the stress coming from a lack of patience would do us any good"

"Hehehe~, Marvelous! I for one, agree on not growing concerned about such mundane issues. That being said…" The Gambler's attitude shifted from giddiness 'Or her version of it…' into something oddly serious "…There is one problem we must actually address with utmost urgency"

My brows and a few of my classmates furrowed slightly at that. Some began to develop worried faces, and others, like Fujisaki, Hiro, and Yamada, began to tremble out of nervousness and fear, although without exception, all of us paid absolute attention to what she had to say.

It is true that Celeste had quite an eccentric personality, but if she said that something urgent had happened, I had no reason to believe otherwise.

"A problem…?" Naegi seemed to agree with my train of thought as he cautiously addressed her "Wh…What is it?"

"You see…" Celeste's gaze turned a tad somber before sighing "…I am thirsty"

…

…After hearing that, I let out a sigh of my own before resuming eating one of my sandwiches.

"HAH!? How the shit does that count as an important problem!?" Understandably, not everyone could take it as calmly.

Ignoring Owada's complaint and the annoyed looks some were giving her, Celeste went further on…that "Yamada, could you be a dear and brew me a drink, yes?"

"Say what now?"

"Milk tea, and quickly please~" That girl was living in her own world, wasn't she?

Regardless, I decided to tune out the rest of their 'conversation', only paying the barest of attention near the end of it, when I noticed Yamada's shadow grow a bit larger as he got up and gave a weak muttering of concession before sulking towards the kitchen.

"Hehe, I feel a bit bad for Yamada-chi"

"Hmm, that is an understandable sentiment, but in the end, it was his weak will that made him concede under the pressure" Ogami pointed in that firm yet serene way she always does.

As for me? I was about to start my last sandwich, and much to my chagrin, I was actually enjoying it.

That bastard of Monokuma, how does he dare to have such quality ingredients stored in this place?

A pair of minutes of inner 'And admittedly stupid…' complaints later, the Ultimate Fanfic Creator came back with a cup held within a tray.

"Do not fear my fair lady! Your loyal servant has brought you the supplement you require!"

With an unexpected caution on his part, Yamada approached Celeste before gently placing the tray in front of her. The gambler, in turn, gave the Fanfic Creator a closed-eye nod in acknowledgment.

"Mhmhmhm~, thanks for the tea"

"Of course, It is nothing but an honor being of service to such a delicate flower!" Judging by how genuine he sounded, hearing that seemed to give Yamada a sense of accomplishment for reasons I wasn't even going to bother figuring out.

Wasn't he reluctant of going with this just a few minutes ago?

With courtesies out of the way, Celeste picked up the tea and brought it up close to her nose, gave a refined whiff…then paused as a frown formed on her face.

Huh.

Following that, she proceeded to give a more scrutinous inspection, staring at it for a few seconds, almost as if trying to figure out the incompressible of enigmas.

And then I shifted my head to my left, swiftly dodging the cup Celeste just threw.

I suppose she wasn't a fan of it.

"Jesus Christ! What the fuck is yer problem, chick!?" The only reason I didn't reacted negatively towards that stunt was that the Gambler had the decency of throwing it between me and Owada instead of Enoshima.

Now that would've been a problem.

"Oh, my most sincere apologies for that, Shigaraki" It was impressive in its own way how she was straight up ignoring Owada's 'Ear-deafening and incompressible shouts' reasonable demands for an apology on his part while Yamada was on the verge of fainting as the rest of the class were looking at her as if she was crazy "It just so happens that of all possible ways to prepare Milk Tea, Yamada had made the unfortunate mistake of using the method I DESPISE the most"

I nodded at her, half to act as if anything of that made any sense and half to accept her apology…which I was beginning to reconsider now that Enoshima was giving me a deadpan look.

…Right, she wanted me to have a stronger reaction to these kinds of things, didn't she? Next time will have to do then.

I don't even know what to think about me being confident there will be a next time.

"H-Huh? But, my little rabbit, I…what…?" In any case, none of that lessened Yamada's, or the rest of the group, confusion regarding Celeste's reaction.

…Wait, how did she call her?

What followed was a long as-hell explanation, courtesy of Celeste, in which she elaborated on what was the difference between the Milk Tea Yamada prepared and the one she expected 'Which could be summarized as Celeste wanting her tea poured with milk before brewing it rather than later', with each passing minute, people growing faces of disbelief.

Meanwhile, I took the opportunity to finally be done with my meal, with somewhere in between, briefly wondering why did Celeste thought that Yamada, the Ultimate Fanfic Creator, had the capacity to fulfill her demands regarding the proper elaboration of tea.

Credit where is due, I didn't expected at all what happened next.

"Hehehehe, I know it may sound like a strenuous chore, but if there's a menu for it, surely it is reasonable to expect the best of qualities within what is being offered, yes?"

"Um, but here we don't have a menu―"

"I DON'T GIVE A SHIT IF THERE'S A FUCKING MENU OR NOT. YOU WILL MAKE THE DAMN TEA AS I ORDERED YOU, AM I CLEAR, YOU RASCAL!?"

"Eeeeeek! Y…Y-YES! Your pathetic pig will amend for its mistake!" Was the last thing Yamada said before hurrying away from…whatever had just happened.

Speaking of that.

"Ah~, isn't people great when your vassals do as they are told?" The Gambler asked to no one in particular.

Which was good, because no one had a way to answer her after that outburst. All everyone could do was observe with astonishment and absolute silence. Not even I was spared of it, with clear signals of confusing bewilderment as I did nothing but blink.

"…Um, I…I never expected for you, uh, have a side like that, Celeste" Maizono ended up being the first one to regain a voice, pointing out in a veryyy polite way what everyone was thinking, which for some reason earned a scoff from Fukawa.

"H-Hmph, I a-always knew she had the l-looks of a c-crazy bitch…"

"Hm?" Unsurprisingly, the Writer recoiled with a yelp the moment Celeste turned in her direction "I don't know what you are all talking about, hehe~"

What a sane and functional human being she is.

"Terrible news, everyone! A friend of ours is missing!" Upon hearing that, I turned to where Enoshima was usually seated…and yep, she was still there, just as done as I with her food.

Well, that was a lie if I ever heard one then.

In any case, hearing the booming voice of Taka as he abruptly pushed the doors of the dining hall open was enough to make all of us turn in his direction.

"Ah! Taka your here!" Leave it to Hina to point out the obvious.

Nobody commented on that, though, instead, it was Naegi who made the relevant question "Uh, rather than that, you said something about bad news, what are you talking about?"

"As I said before, one of our comrades is nowhere to be found, more specifically, Togami isn't in his room!" I highly doubt any of us consider Togami a friend or a comrade, while I'm pretty sure that the feeling is mutual "I've tried knocking at his door for almost half an hour with no results whatsoever!"

"Is that so? Erm, maybe he wasn't there?" For once, Hiro had a point.

…Huh, that happened.

"It is a possibility…" Taka conceded although the concerned look on his face told he wasn't satisfied with that answer "…But even so, it appears no one has seen him so far! I fear the possibility that something might've occurred to him!"

Worried looks began to spread at that. Whether out of concern for Togami himself or not, remains to be seen, but what was undeniable was that Taka's words carried implications that couldn't be left ignored.

"Damnit, of course that asshole had to ruin what could've been a peaceful morning…" I was pretty sure Celeste took care of that already. Regardless, the redhead turned to the Moral Compass "So, you think we should look for that dude, or what?"

Taka, in turn, nodded at Leon "Yes, those were my thoughts. I find that separating ourselves into small search parties to look for Togami should be the most efficient way of dealing with this mystery!"

No one protested at that. Sure, nobody wanted to do this in the first place, but Taka's idea was as good as anything to deal with this.

"Everyone! While you guys go look for him, I will go keep an eye on the dorms. Just in case he's actually sleeping, alright?" Neither there were any arguments against Hina's proposal.

And so, everyone began to form their own small groups before parting ways, leaving only myself and Enoshima…well, there was also Celeste who was resting eerily in a corner, most probably waiting for Yamada to be done with her tea.

Anyhow, that only meant one thing.

"So, you have any idea where that doofus might be?"

I couldn't help a slightly amused look as I pondered about Enoshima's question. Although leaving aside that…If I was being honest, I had some leads based on what transpired yesterday.

"Hmm, I might know where he is. We should probably head toward the second floor. The sooner we get to him, the sooner his corpse might give us some clues about what happened to him" …Wait, was that too much?

"Right, we don't wanna go empty-handed at the class trial, do we?" …Huh, now I don't know if she was following along with my twisted sense of humor or if she was being serious.

Whatever the case was…I turned at her with a smile "No, we don't. Let's hurry up then"

The moment she returned the gesture with a smile of her own, that confusing and revolting sentiment I've been feeling every time I recall her name melted away, leaving in its place a pleasant sensation that I undoubtedly wouldn't mind feeling on a more constant basis.

When Enoshima and I reached the library, I didn't wasted a second in turning the door open and stepping inside.

What greeted us within the library was…

Well, practically everything I expected, to be honest.

Still with that eternal condescending stare he carries himself with, Togami was seated beside one of the desks within the room while reading a book and sipping from a cup I could only assume was coffee, all the while solving the issue of this place's poor illumination with a lamp I could've sworn I saw in the archive room.

Mystery solved; I suppose.

"Is this guy for real? No, wait. It's Togami, of damn course he is…" I heard Enoshima groan before letting out an audible sigh "…Anyhow, considering that we already know where he is, do you wanna for me to go look for our classmates and tell them where is?"

Do I want to? Not really. The idea of separating myself from her is one that doesn't sit well with me, even if there wasn't a motive looming around…yet.

Although…

Without turning my gaze away from Togami, I addressed Enoshima "…Yeah, I guess we need someone to go tell the rest that we found him"

Giving me a firm nod, Enoshima left the library not before giving the Heir one last annoyed look.

Four minutes.

That's all the tolerance I will have. If a single second more than that passes, and she wasn't here yet, I will go in search of her.

I will momentarily hold on to the idea that by now, even the densest of our classmates understand that there will be consequences should they attempt anything against her.

"Sending her away so you can commit your murder without witnesses?" Without looking away from his book, Togami spoke with clear signs of amusement.

Not that I was going to indulge him, of course. Instead, I just moved away from the entrance, leaning against the wall beside me. Just like that, we spent the next two minutes. With neither of us uttering a single word.

"Tch, are you just going to stand there without saying anything?" Apparently, Togami wasn't finding that bearable.

I gave him a disinterested shrug "Do you want me to say something?"

"Not really, no. If anything, I commend that more often than not, you avoid speaking more than necessary. Even I can appreciate when the servitude understands when to keep their mouths shut without me requiring to instruct it. Alas, if only the rest of the rabble were like that" The Heir began to chuckle at a joke that seems only he understood, then, his face contorted once again into one of disdain "Having said that…what are you doing here?"

Again, I shrugged "You didn't come to the daily meeting. That made the group worried and decided to look for you. So, here I am, looking for you"

"Worried, you say? Mhmhmhm, I wasn't aware that your masters taught your kind the concept of humor. Well, you found me, so you can leave now and tell them to mind their own business. Your presence is becoming a pestering to my sight, begone"

Glancing at the clock ahead of the heir and noticing that the four-minute mark was about to be, I prepared to leave and look for Enoshima.

"Ah, Togami! You truly are here!" Only for Taka to slam the door open with his voice as loud as usual interrupting those plans.

Just behind him, everyone, including Celeste and Yamada, followed inside the library, with every single one carrying faces either of relief or annoyance, some even with a mixture of the two. Although out of all of them, the person whose entrance only mattered to me was Enoshima, and once she was beside me, I allowed any tension I might had leave out of my system.

"And now there are more you…Hmph, it appears that my sanctuary has been invaded" Togami sighed before standing up, putting a bookmark on what he reading, shutting it close, and then leaving it on the desk.

"Togami! We have been looking for you everywhere, you had us worried" Naegi being Naegi, worriedly asked, then he began to look around with a confused expression "So…uh, what are you doing here?"

In response to that, the Heir gave the Luckster a look as if he was an idiot…well, he always was looking at everyone like that, only this time it was more punctuated "I've been playing soccer" Not to my surprise, I could see that a few people seemed intended on believing that. I suspect that Togami noticed it too because before any of them opened their mouths, he spoke first "No, you dimwit, in case it wasn't any more obvious, I was reading a book"

Maizono shot the heir an annoyed glare, though before she could take things further, Naegi tried to placate her, waving his hands back and forth as a clear signal of him being worried this could escalate.

When Maizono conceded to Naegi's efforts, he turned again towards Togami "Reading, I see…erm, it must be quite a good one to miss out on our daily meeting, r-right?"

At first, I expected the Heir to make another condescending commentary against the Luckster, but the moment a smirk developed on his face, I inevitably quirked an eyebrow, wondering what was he planning now "Mhmhm, while I am not an enjoyer of such a vulgar piece of literature, if it could even be considered that, I believe this mystery novel I've been consuming could prove its usefulness at some point"

…Ah, I see where he was going with this, although I wonder how bluntly he was going to talk about it. Seeing he was a Togami; I could assume he was going to take the bluntest approach.

What a chore this is going to be.

As if catching on the possible implications of the Heir's commentary, Hina addressed him with some caution "U-Useful…? What do you mean by that?"

"What else? I'm saying that this book is full of interesting ideas. Of course, while they do work for inspiration, I will come up with something original and far superior when it is my turn to play this game"

And that was all the class required for the realization of what he was talking about to dawn on them.

"Game…?" Leon repeated with his frows burrowed, then out of nowhere his eyes widened in remembrance "Wait! W-Wait goddamn moment! All this time…you were being real about that crap of you seeing this as a game!?"

"Of course I mean it" Togami replied with a scoff "After all, what else is this if not a high-risk, high-reward activity from which I can have my fill of entertainment?"

The realization on everyone's faces quickly morphed into one of disbelief, though whether it was because they can't believe he mean that or because he declares this situation as something he enjoys…I suppose it would depend on the person.

For some, said disbelief shifted into unleashed rage.

"Y-You…you piece of shit! What the fuck is wrong with ya!? Thinking this is some kind of shitty game, huh!?" Like Owada for example.

Although if Togami was intimidated by that, he didn't show it "Oh? But it is a game, one where our lives are at stake, but a game nonetheless. It is a competition in which only one of us can emerge victorious…unless, of course, somebody here is taking the idea of going for the perk into consideration, perhaps?"

Before any further protest could emerge at his announcement regarding his view of our captivity, everyone paused when the topic of that perk was once again brought up.

For everyone sans Enoshima 'Well, there was also the exception Kirigiri and Celeste…', Togami's mention made them throw me a nervous glance…and a few towards Enoshima too, as no doubt they saw the murderous glare she was sending Togami.

Which, of course, Togami didn't mind exploiting "Mhmhm, no matter how much you acclaim him now as a member of your pathetic group, you people still fear him, I see. It is of no surprise, really…and neither should be that I'm not interested in cooperating for that 'reward' Monokuma offered and if any of you still hold any brain cells, you will follow my example"

I perked up at that last part.

I see, so he did catch up on the loophole within that rule.

"Hm? What are you implying, Togami?" Ogami asked with narrowed eyes.

Togami, loving the sound of his own voice as usual, immediately answered "Exactly what I said. I recommend you to accept this invaluable piece of advice I am offering and not go along with that rule"

"Huh? Why is that?" Hiro asked, though it appeared he quickly regretted it when he saw the dirty looks everyone was giving him "W-Wait a moment guys! I was just asking out of curiosity, I-I swear!"

Togami muttered something along the lines of "Dealing with the lowest of bugs" before conceding to Hiro's request "Does anybody here remember what is the exact wording of that rule?"

Confusion once again began to swarm within the minds of most members of the group, that much I could observe before shifting my gaze towards those that decided that the best course of action was to bring out their E-Handbooks out.

"If someone becomes the 'BLACKENED' by killing Shizuka Shigaraki, this person will gain the perk 'Slayer of Assassins' which allows him to graduate along with HALF of the surviving students without the need for a class trial, that is the exact quoting of the rule" Celeste mused aloud before a gleam of recognition shined in her eyes "Oh, hehehe, I can see now what Togami is talking about"

"Wait, really?" Once again, that earned Hiro some looks "Oh, c'mon people! There isn't nothing wrong with asking that, is it!?"

"Your existence alone is an affront deserving of such glances" Celeste swiftly ignored the Clairvoyant's complaint that came after "But, yes, answering your question, what Togami said just a moment ago has some merit. You see, while that rule tells that if someone becomes the blackened by acquiring that perk, half of the remaining students are free to go with no attachments whatsoever, besides the blackened itself…where does it say that said person has any right to choose who leaves with him?"

People glanced back to their personal devices, and one by one, eyes began to widen as the implications of Celeste's statement became clearer.

More specifically, the loophole within the rule working as a bounty for my head.

After all, both Togami and Celeste made important points. Let's say, for example, that half of the class does end up plotting against me, and by some chance, they succeed, and one of them deals the finishing blow, becoming the blackened.

There was no guarantee that the remaining conspirators would benefit from it, as it is implied that the one responsible for choosing which half leaves would be Monokuma. If anything, I wouldn't put it past the monochrome bear to proceed in liberating the other half, rejoicing in the despair that their actions were for nothing.

An outcome worthy of coming from the twisted mind behind Monokuma.

"It is such a peculiar sight to observe one of you mongrels being willing to use your brain for once" Oh? A compliment coming from Togami? Sure, it was only with the intention of 'hiding' a backhanded insult, but still…

One of Celeste's eyes twitched at that, but I highly doubt Togami cared, or at least noticed, about it "Hehehe, it is nothing worth flaunting about. After all, it is you Togami who pointed it out, weren't you? Although, I wonder where is this coming from. I admit I never expected you to reveal something like this for all of us"

Togami's amused look from just a moment ago turned into a scowl when he heard that "Hmph, do not misunderstand. Not even the combined value of you all is worth my shadow. The only purpose of this revelation was to make you all understand that seeking cooperation in this place is the peak of foolishness. The design of this game was constructed so only one of us claims victory. It has been that way since the beginning, and it will remain to be as such until the very end"

…

…I wonder about that last part.

Despite what my inner thoughts might be, the already low reputation of the Heir amongst the group was sinking deeper with each passing second that people mulled about the words Togami had just said, and as some of the most irritated by his words were preparing to argue with him…

"Y-You are wrong!" A scared yet firm voice beat them to it.

Turning towards the source of it was a defiant-looking Fujisaki, with his eyes fixated on the Heir.

Naturally, such an abrupt call from the programmer of all people caught everyone's attention, including Togami's.

"What?" Said Ultimate Affluent Progeny asked with a flat voice.

"I…I said that you are mistaken!" Nevertheless, in a sudden momentum of bravery, Fujisaki stood his ground "This isn't a game, a-and just thinking about our circumstances that way is horrible! T-The mere idea of k-killing our friends i-is―"

"Who told you the foolish idea that we are friends?"

"H-Huh?"

"We are not friends, actually, the circumstances of this game make us the exact opposite. You and I, and everyone else here are nothing but enemies"

I could see that some cracks were beginning to appear within the bravado of Fujisaki, though judging by his posture, he seemed determined to continue this argument just a bit more "H-How could you say that!? Why are you saying s-such things!? No one has d-died so far, so why are you so i-insistent on―"

"Oh, so that's what this is all about? You think that just because nobody is dead yet, everything is okay, is that it?" Togami had an amused smile while making that rhetorical question, but just as fast it moved into a scowl full of disdain "Well, I have news for you…you are mistaken. Even if they have failed, someone already committed a murder attempt. The ball will do nothing but roll from here and now, with more and more following example. Sooner or later, people will begin to die, and I refuse to blind myself from that truth, do you understand?"

"N-No, I…I don't, I―"

"Stop with this fruitless charade, and accept my words like you should have since the beginning"

"B-But―"

"But what? If you aren't going to speak properly, do everyone here a favor and keep your mouth shut"

By now, Fujisaki was shaking and with tears trailing down his cheeks, a contrast from the programmer of just a minute ago. He still was trying to bring a comeback out, but try as he might, his mouth was falling him on every attempt.

…Sigh.

What the hell is going through that guy's head?

Eventually, Fujisaki's face became filled with shame before hanging it down as he addressed the Heir "…I…I-I'm sorry"

All things considered; it was a pitiful display that wasn't doing anything but earning Togami the contempt of the entire group. Even Naegi of all people was giving Togami a disapproving look. Whether it was because of the Heir's commentary reminding everyone for the umpteenth occasion what Maizono did or because of Fujisaki's state, I don't know.

Speaking of contempt against Togami.

"Oi, asshole. Do you get off on doing shit like this? Do you think tormenting those who can't fight is funny or what?" Owada…calmly questioned.

I couldn't help turning towards the Gang Leader because of that.

His crude language was there as usual, but the regular way in which he asked wasn't normal, and neither it was the look in his eyes. There was…something, if I had to make an assumption, it was as if looking at a boiling volcano barely containing its turn to erupt.

Not like Togami noticed it, though "Hm? Are planning in playing this farse about any of us being friends? In that case…well, I never expected anything from a walking proof of humanity's missing link like you, yet you prove your capacity to be a waste of breath each time you talk. I almost pity you, really"

There were a few moments of silence after that. Long enough for even Togami to quirk an eyebrow for the lack of retort. Meanwhile, Owada did nothing but stare at him.

"…All right, that's it. I'm gonna kill ya, you fuckface" I knew he meant it because unlike the incident with Naegi, this time I was feeling the killing intent.

Following his declaration, Owada began to rush toward Togami.

Only to be held against his will by Ogami.

And it was just then that it became clear how angry Owada was.

"LET ME FUCKING GO, CHICK! DON'T YOU SEE I NEED TO RIP OFF THAT ASSHOLE TO PIECES!?"

"Owada! If I hadn't caught you in time, you would've threatened Togami's life, don't you see?"

"AND WHAT IF I AM!? I'VE BEEN TOLERATING THAT SHITHEAD'S BULLSHIT FOR WAY TOO LONG! C'MON CHICK, LET ME BASH HIS SKULL!"

"No, I won't let you go until you calm down, and that's non-negotiable!"

"I AM CALM!"

Thankfully for the Heir's life, Ogami wasn't having any problems containing Owada. Meanwhile, the rest of the group was visibly mortified at what was transpiring, with Fujisaki's sobs increasing in volume and no one knowing what to do.

This was becoming a trainwreck…and Togami for his part wasn't helping at all.

"Mhmhm, all bark and no bite, isn't it?" Was it just my imagination or did Ogami's grip on the Gang Leader loosen a bit?

"Hehe, the possibility of being in danger did not cross your mind for a moment, does it?"

"What kind of question is that? Of course it didn't" Unsurprisingly, the guy had the gall of looking offended at Celeste's commentary "I was never in danger to begin with"

"U-Uh, I'm pretty sure Master Owada is not kidding right now, Master Togami…"

"I'M GONNA MAKE A COCONUT CUP WITH YER GODDAMN HEAD, YA HEAR!?" Nope, he wasn't.

"What of it? He can spurt all the nonsense he wants; it won't change anything. The possibility of me dying is an absolute zero. It simply won't happen, all for the simple fact that it isn't possible in the first place" This guy is something else, isn't he?

Utter dumbfoundedness, such was the best way to describe how most were seeing what Togami was saying.

"Anyway, while I'm not sure if it's the correct term, I expect all of you to step up on your game, and begin to make this more interesting for me…" Always unfazed by what others might think of him, it appears he wasn't done picking up conflicts for today "…Especially you, Assassin"

…It truly was wishful thinking that he wasn't going to bask in his momentum to pick up a confrontation with me, wasn't it?

As a last attempt of avoiding this, I didn't say anything.

"Playing deaf won't do you any favors" Of course, it didn't immediately have the intended effect "You might have fooled everyone here into believing that you have forfeited from the Killing Game, but I'm not like any of them. You will eventually leak your true nature, and I will gladly be there to observe your fall from grace"

…

…Again, I kept my mouth shut.

I know his kind; he was only waiting for me to fall to his provocations to latch onto the opportunity of going further and further. When he sees that I won't bite the bait, he will let go of this with one last scornful commentary.

"I believe you made your point clear by now, Togami" To mine, and most possibly the rest of the group's surprise, Kirigiri spoke for the first time since this fiasco began "Prolonging this any further is just plain counterproductive, don't you think?"

Togami briefly spared the girl who now I recognize as the Ultimate Detective a glance before turning again in my direction "Right now I am enjoying myself. So, how is it that counterproductive?"

Before answering that, Kirigiri's vision flickered…between me and Enoshima, shifting left and right to look at each of us. Additionally, it wasn't going unnoticed by me how tense she was.

What is she up to?

"…Maybe you are doing so for the moment, but sometimes words have consequences. You have eluded them so far, but making antagonistic remarks left and right will inevitably come to bite you back. Hard" …Huh, out of all possible outcomes, Kirigiri saying something like this was an unexpected one. Besides, I suppose that was a reasonable argument.

Which is why I wasn't caught off guard when Togami scoffed at it.

"Perhaps it is right for you to fear the Assassin, but I am beyond him. The fact that he is the most effective member of his faux cult only means that he is a dog trained well enough to recognize whom he should serve. Taming him would be nothing but a breeze of a task to me" From the corner of my peripherical vision I could see that Enoshima wasn't taking this well, her glare and the grinding of her teeth told that much. I…shit, I didn't wanted to follow along with this guy's crap, but maybe I truly needed to make a retort so he finally shuts up. There was no need to go too far, just some― "Or what? Do you also believe that nonsense of him being infatuated with Enoshima? I admit that what he pulled a few days ago was a convincing act, but in the end, even if perhaps he truly lusts after her, it is clear as day that he will ditch that plain and dumb deadweight who dirties the image of what a fashion model truly is if it means―"

"Togami" There was an eerie sense of sterility in the way I said his name, I think even he noticed it, but if the smugness in his face was anything to go by, the Ultimate Affluent Prodigy was intended in thinking nothing of it.

"Oh? So now you can speak, then? I thought for a moment that someone had cut your tongue, although I suppose you have to keep appearances about this, don't you?"

…

"…Whatever it is you plan on saying next, for your own good I suggest you forget about it. That, and to retract about what you just said"

Rather than taking my threat seriously, I could observe that he was seeing it as a signal for celebration, almost as if bathing in the victory of finally managing to push one of my buttons.

Which honestly speaking, he truly did, and I was pretty sure that the rest of the group was aware of it, how mostly everyone was utterly silent as they backed away from me. Heck, Owada was no longer struggling against Ogami nor rambling more curses, and from the corner of my eye, I noticed the earliest of signals that Celeste's and Kirigiri's masks cracked for a moment.

…

…Right, that makes sense. After all, this was the first time they were seeing the same face I was making back during my confrontation with Monokuma.

"Heh, do you think I am intimidated by you? Don't make me laugh" Not like any of that mattered for this poor dumbass though "As a Togami, I am the master of your masters, someone you would never dare hurt. No, if anything…Hmph, I wonder if I can convince Monokuma to recognize you as the tool you are so I can properly use you. That certainly would be interesting, wouldn't I? Perhaps if you kneel before me and give a proper apology, I would reconsider not using you to get rid of this naive Fashionista you have taken for a pseudo escort. What do you say of―"

"You are dead" That was the cold declaration of doom I whispered in the ear of the self-declared unkillable heir of the Togami conglomerate as he was undoubtedly feeling what I had pressed against his throat. When his wide eyes meet mine as they drifted to look behind him, and when I recognized the fear of death I've seen in every single one of my victims that I have given them the chance of gazing upon their soon-to-be executioner…I would be lying if I said there wasn't at least an ounce of satisfaction within me.

Regardless of what happens now though, nobody could say I didn't had the decency of warning him.

A/N: That escalated quickly, huh?

Some might've noticed (Or not, who knows, I like to believe some did anyways!), but the Owada in this A.U had to deal with a little bit more of Togami's stunts than the original one, so I wanted for that to alter things somewhat. Which it did, as you have seen, by forcing Ogami to take her own measures against his outburst this time around.

Too bad she didn't account for Togami's lack of self-preservation instincts immediately turning someone else against him, huh?

Let me know what you guys think through the reviews, and if you have like it so far follow and favorite, yeah?

Until next time!