Keebo took off his jacket and hat, revealing his metallic arms. The rest of the white-haired man looked extremely normal as the rest of him was completely human.

Tsumugi glanced back at the blue light of the monitors before looking back at him. "How are the contestants?"

"Stable."

"Really? Anything other than that? How about their fabricated personalities, Idabashi-kun?"

"Anything else is irrelevant, Tsumugi-san. They are able to walk, talk, eat and use the restroom. We're not liable for more than that."

"Hmph. As utilitarian as always."

"If you get attached to them, you're liable to ruin the program. But it's too late, isn't it?"

"What do you mean?"

"I've seen the chat logs. While I initially wrote it off as an interesting twist from your writing, you planned to make Shuichi Saihara the protagonist from the start – despite management wanting Kaede Akamatsu as the lead."

"Are you disagreeing with my methods?"

"Not at all. The focus groups reacted more positively to this development. I'm merely stating facts. Like how you aren't fond of me at all."

"What gave you that idea?" Tsumugi adjusted her glasses upward with one finger.

Keebo pointed his finger straight at her. "Making me a robot of all things? Funny joke."

"I'd say it's more ironic than anything. Creating a robot character with more heart than most humans, despite his real-life counterpart being a human who'd be more like a robot."

The man with the artificial arms crossed them together. "I apologize. If you were looking for some praise or a pity laugh, you'll get none of them from me."

"Suit yourself. Are you here to continue to critique my work, or are you here for another reason?"

"I came here for business. But since you seem aware of my distaste, I would like you to give me the chance to state my issues with it."

Tsumugi sighed. "Go ahead."

"Thank you very much." Keebo took a breath and continued. "Your insistence to try and make this your own show while trying to appeal to the old school fans has caused this plotline to become extremely contrived. And making yourself as the main antagonist? We're usually supposed to be side characters or not seen at all."

"You're quite the traditionalist." Tsumugi replied. "Doing things like shoutouts to previous games, insane plots, rehashing old formulas, and changing things here and there – the more astute watchers will pick up on these quickly. And it will start many, many conversations."

"Those discussions might not be the one you want. I'd imagine this entry will be extremely divisive to the fanbase."

Tsumugi grinned. "That's fine. It's one thing to make a work that can be considered art. Even a hardcore fan like me knows that Danganronpa, at its core, was never really that sort of series."

"Oh? Then what was your goal?"

"For everyone to talk about it."

"Really? That's all?" Keebo placed his hand on his chin. "I'm...having trouble understanding what you mean."

"Once the finale starts, people will love it or hate it!" She started drooling as she took a trip into her imagination. "But, as someone who has written endless amounts of fanfiction, run too many fan killing games, and created so many OCs; the goal has – and always will be – for people to keep talking about them. There have been so many fan works talked about today that were released a long time ago!"

"So it's all about your ego."

Tsumugi smirked. "I suppose you could say that. But, mark my words, people will remember Danganronpa V3. Whether it's because they love or hate it – it doesn't matter to me. But it'll always stick with them."

"Seems I'll never truly understand you creative types. Oh well."

"So, your business, Idabashi-kun?"

"As you said – we're in the endgame. We'll need enough footage for two parts."

"Not to worry. It'll be taken care of. Anything else?"

Keebo frowned. "The contestants probably have figured out who I am by now. I take my safety seriously, you know."

"Not to worry. You'll not need to retrieve the final group. I'll do it personally."

"Even though they'll probably want to harm you?"

"Don't worry about it. Enjoy the rest of your time off."

"...well...I would. But it seems something happened to the mainland."

Tsumugi gave him a look. "What happened?"

The destroyer arrived in the harbor in eastern Yokohama without much fanfare. As everyone took in the strange sights for the first time as they exited the deck, everyone continued to be as silent as the scene around them. Buildings were ruined – but not as if a strong tropical storm or earthquake happened.

"It's like someone painted over the city and made it look like what it was in our world!" Hina yelled. "What happened?!"

"If you've forgotten," Byakuya began. "There was a second typhoon that originated from Towa City. Most people here in Yokohama as well as Toyko were able to evacuate – but the damage to property was immense. Most of Northeastern Japan was affected by the strange storm."

Hajime crossed his arms as Class 77-B was right behind him. "At least it wasn't the whole world this time."

Junko stuck her tongue out and playfully replied. "To some people, losing their home is basically losing their world! What a tragedy. Upupupu."

Chiaki looked down while Ai gave Junko an annoyed pout.

"So what's our next step?" Hiro asked.

Makoto started walking forward and everyone looked toward him. Another, smaller ship, pulled up near where they were. Onboard were the denizens of Hope's Peak Academy; trying to take in the sights.

"Wh-what the hell man?!" Leon yelled. "What happened?!"

"Look! It's sensei!" Chihiro pointed over the railing from the private chartered vessel.

Chisa, Kyosuke and Juzo eyed him with anticipation while it was dead quiet.

"It's like the worlds are fused together, don't you think?" He finally asked aloud.

Kyoko looked around at the desolation. "That might be close to what happened."

Makoto stopped and knelt at an open patch of dirt among the sea of concrete and asphalt. He touched what looked like a little sapling, gently rubbing one of its small leaves. "Either way, there really only is one thing to do. Move forward."

"Er... Makoto." Komaru nervously rubbed the side of her face with an index finger. "That's pretty vague don't you think? How do we move forward?"

A toothy smile appeared on the former SHSL Lucky Student's face.

"I have a few ideas."

The last memory Shuichi had was staring at the hole left by K1-BO after his destruction of the false academy. Next, he found himself waking up in what looked to be a pod for his body. He felt something unlatching from him and took a deep breath.

He placed his hand against the glass, leaving an imprint of it on it. Cold. It was real.

Wherever the hell he was, it was real.

Things started to come back to him. His actual life. The reason he was there. It was all for Danganronpa.

When he started, he was happy and giddy at the prospect. But now reality came crashing down making him feel claustrophobic.

I...I can't breathe in here...!

Almost giving into his panic, he pushed the pod open and fell out of it. The floor was cold. He looked up and saw a total of 14 pods. Most of them were already empty. The strange number of them immediately raised alarms in his mind.

"...already awake, Saihara-kun?"

The voice gave him a deep pit in his own stomach.

"Shirogane-san?"

"Hey now. You can plainly see that I'm alive." Tsumugi adjusted her glasses. "But the fact that you've regained consciousness so quickly... even though you were the designated protagonist, you still manage to surprise me!"

He was still feeling off-balance while he stood up slowly.

"You...you and someone else weren't in there with us."

"Oh, heavens no. But believe me, if I was allowed to, I would've joined you all in a heartbeat!"

Still heavily guarded against the mastermind, he finally looked straight at her. Instead of either being in a high school uniform or her outfit she was dressed business casual. A blazer, blouse, and a skirt while wearing heels.

"I was expecting a somewhat-serious killing game. But this..." Shuichi took in his surroundings. "Is this the Neo World Program?"

"Ah! As expected of you! Yup. It actually exists in this world. To think a piece of fiction could predict the future like this... amazing, don't you think?"

"I'd enjoy it more if I wasn't an unwitting participant in it."

"Details, details. But then again, that should clue you in on the true nature of the killing game." Tsumugi grinned. "Come now, SHSL Detective! Surely you could deduct this."

"I'm no true SHSL student." Shuichi placed his hand on his chest. "But if I recall... the NWP reacts to the people that are inside it. But you could have interfered with it from the outside!"

"I could have, yes!" Tsumugi smiled. "However, I didn't."

"Liar! You framed Akamatsu-san!"

"My character did indeed do so." Tsumugi placed a finger on her chin. "But you of all people should know that if I wanted to have her do something specifically, I would have to enter the NWP myself. But I could not. She was merely an NPC in your killing game!"

Shuichi grit his teeth as he was starting to piece together where she was going with it.

"Don't get me wrong. I wanted you as the protagonist over Kaede Akamatsu. I'm not going to lie about that." Tsumugi continued. "But do you recall the first 'NPC' from Danganronpa history?"

"You're talking about Chiaki Nanami."

"Very good, Saihara-kun! And how was she formed?"

"...from the memories of Class 77-B."

"So, SHSL Detective Shuichi Saihara, what should that tell you about the AI Tsumugi Shirogane?"

"Are you seriously saying we created her personality?"

Tsumugi smirked again. "I wouldn't say we. I had the programmers base her personality on my own. But her role was never defined."

"So you're saying we created the mastermind."

"Not we, Saihara-kun. You."

"M-Me?!"

I'd do... anything to be a part of Danganronpa. I promise, if I get selected... I will work as hard as I can! I will come up with the best, most gruesome murders, I promise! Everyone will love it!

Shuichi held his head as a sharp pain just passed.

"Everyone else was concerned with winning the killing game. But you...you wanted to help create the best Danganronpa ever! Your will was that strong, Sweet-chi."

"Don't call me that!"

"Those thoughts of yours stuck with the AI so much that it fulfilled those deep-seated desires of yours."

He bit his lip. As much as he wanted to scream at her that all she was spouting was more lies, logically it all connected. He loved Danganronpa. He read countless fanfics and participated in countless killing games himself.

But being thrown straight into the experience himself changed his heart.

He hated Danganronpa.

"Did you know why I chose you, Saihara-kun?"

"No. No I don't."

"I can see you're still angry. That's plain to see." Tsumugi turned from him. "I'll have you wake up your friends. They're waiting for you. Maybe you can reflect on it."

The mastermind of Danganronpa V3 left the room, while Shuichi bit his thumb. He shook his head slowly. He finally turned to the last two occupied pods and moved to retrieve the last of his friends.

"...sorry, everyone."

The entire group finally split off from one another as they began to survey the ruined city of Yokohama. Makoto found himself where his old apartment building was – though now it looks as it did post-Tragedy. The quiet and humble home he had for the past several months was now covered in age old blood with furniture he didn't even remember purchasing.

"It must've been nice when you were living here." Komaru softly said as Makoto was looking around. "I wish I could've seen it."

"It wasn't anything special. But it was home for a good while." The brown-haired man replied. "I'm more sad that my favorite restaurant is gone."

"Oh come on..." Komaru whined a little. "I'm trying not to get hungry here."

Makoto laughed a little. "Sorry. I'm hungry, actually."

"I could really go for some Chinese food! Maybe get something with sparrow's nest..." Komaru pondered. "And you should try some curry from them, too!"

"That stuff's really spicy. I don't think I can handle it."

"C'mon. It's not mapo tofu, y'know!"

"Also, we'd probably have to go all the way to Kyoto for it..."

Both Naegi siblings looked back as a familiar idol entered where the remains of where Makoto's apartment was.

Komaru smiled. "Oh! Oh, Maizono-san! Is something wrong?"

"Komaru Naegi, right? It's nice to meet you."

"H-Huh? But we've—we've met." The younger Naegi started to tear up in her eyes.

Makoto's face didn't change expression. "How long have you been here, Maizono-san?"

Komaru snapped out of it. "Huh? She just got here."

"No. I meant how long she's been in this world."

"Huh?!"

Sayaka smiled softly. "Seems nothing escapes your perceptive eyes these days, Naegi-kun."

"W-Wait." Komaru stopped for a few moments. "S-So she's the other Sayaka M-Maizono?" She started to sweat a little bit, feeling very shy. "U-Um, I'm a big fan! It'ssoniceotmeetyou!"

"You're so strong, but so girlish at the same time. I'm a little jealous of you Komaru-san."

"J-Jealous of me? N-no way!"

Sayaka gave her fan a sweet smile and turned to Makoto. "You don't need to make such a serious face, Naegi-kun. I'm only borrowing this body."

"Borrowing?"

"Unlike Enoshima-san, I'm content to remain a ghost of the past."

Makoto found himself unconsciously narrowing his eyes a bit.

"Ahaha...sorry. I shouldn't be lying to you. Lying got me into this mess in the first place, didn't it?"

"Maizono-san..."

Sayaka placed her hands together with an anguished look. "It was so tempting. So tempting to reach out and take her place, you know? Maybe there was something to that whole esper joke. She is attuned to the dead, much more than Komaru-san is."

"Another ghost..." Komaru started to think of the voices she could faintly hear earlier.

"But I could see her thoughts too. Her dreams...her wants. I gave it my all and threw away everything so I could get them myself – so there's no way that my other self wouldn't fight back for her place in the world."

"Huh? But you're here now." Komaru observed.

"Only because she's doing me a favor." Sayaka replied, still looking straight at Makoto. He stood there while she moved over and placed her hands on his.

His eyes softened while they were still narrowed.

"...I just wanted to say that I'm sorry, Naegi-kun. I wish I could have been more truthful around you. Not just in that twisted killing game. But during our school life, too."

"I was the one that put you on a pedestal." He replied in a near whisper.

Sayaka couldn't help but smile. "I put you on one, too. But you were always comfortable being yourself. I could never stop being the Idol, even when we were alone."

She raised her hands and held Makoto's face gently.

"You even vowed to carry us with you for the rest of your life. You've always had that strength in you. It may have not been physical, but I always felt at peace."

Komaru could swear people were walking past her. At least that's what it felt like.

"...this is all I can do for you, Makoto Naegi." Sayaka said with tears in her eyes. "You won't let us go, but we'll let go of you."

"Maizono-san?"

"You showed us the future that you fought for. I can't even ask for more...thank you so much, Naegi-kun." Sayaka's voice was shaking. "The weight of our souls almost dragged you to death, you know? It's okay. You don't have to carry us anymore."

"I made that choice. I'm not going to start regretting it now."

"I know. We know. That's why we're doing this. Because we're your friends." She pulled away and slowly walked over to the window. It was cracked so badly that there was hardly any glass left to block out the elements.

Makoto continued to watch her every move.

"Can't believe I'm still this selfish in the end." Sayaka mused.

"What do you mean?" Makoto asked.

"...I started thinking about a future with you, Naegi-kun. One that I'll never see."

A slow breath came from the luckster's mouth.

"And how sad it feels when this is the only time I could be truthful to you."

"Maizono-san!"

Sayaka smiled again as her tears finally stopped. "Please watch over the Sayaka Maizono of this world. I envy her with every fiber of my being. But I couldn't live with myself if I stole her life away from her."

She started out to mouth out her final words to him.

I love you.

As her lips ended the sentence, Sayaka fell to the floor like a ragdoll but Makoto caught her mid-lunge.

Komaru ran over to them.

"She's still breathing. Barely." He looked up at his sister. "Do me a favor. Get Maizono-san to a place where she can rest."

"Okay! You got it, Makoto."

"Mmh...Naegi-sensei...was she able to reach you...?"

He handed her off to the Sayaker who proceeded to carry her off to a safer place. Makoto turned toward the broken window and looked out of it. He almost stumbled backward as a group of eight cranes flew right past it and soared into the skies. After watching the birds slowly fly out of view, he could feel hot tears streaming down his face.

I'll never forget any of you.

Goodbye.

Nagito found himself admiring the cranes that were flying overhead. Life always found a way despite essentially complete destruction.

"Bagel?"

A familiar male voice shook him out from his thoughts. "Um...excuse me, Hinata-kun?"

"These were the only things I could find that weren't tainted in some way." Hajime answered as he had a bag of unspoiled bagels in a bag.

"Ah, well...then I suppose yes, then. Thank you very much." A warm smile came from the white-haired man's lips. After eating a few pieces of the unexciting bread, Hajime took a long look at Nagito.

"You've got that plotting look all over your face again. Out with it, Komaeda."

A smirk came from the former SHSL Lucky Student of Class 77-B. "After such wanton destruction, there can only be hope that springs from it. I am so very lucky to be able to see it firsthand instead of being exiled on Jabberwock."

"That's one way to put what we've been dragged into."

"Oh? Do you not approve of Naegi-san's plans?"

"It's not if I approve of them or not. But I was kinda hoping for some peace and quiet for once."

Nagito chuckled. "Come now. In this world, or in ours, that sort of thing is impossible."

"I guess. But maybe a breather would be nice once in a while."

"Ah. I see your point. I don't have that luxury, though."

Hajime's eyes narrowed.

"You've already known. Much like Nidai-kun, I don't have very long myself. Eventually my luck will run out."

"Your life is one big headache. Especially when you give me them." Hajime exhaled. "So what? You're going to go ahead and work 'til you can't even stand anymore?"

"Indeed. A pitiable creature as myself still has ambition. One could say, the smaller the person the bigger their dreams are." Nagito proclaimed while opening his hands wide. "With a time limit looming over my head, I have to start as soon as possible."

"Now I'm afraid of what bullshit you're going to come up with."

"I also wish to be known as a SHSL Hope."

Hajime sighed. "So you're using Naegi-san's plans for your own benefit. Well, that's frankly not the worst thing I've ever heard from you."

"Such praise makes my heart light!"

"Yeah, well, don't float off into the atmosphere. Guess I have to keep an eye on you for a little bit longer."

"A-Are you saying you'll help me, Hinata-kun?"

"I'm just going to make sure you don't make things worse. Besides. Not like I have places to go; even with both Nanamis."

"I see. So both of them will be joining us? Thank you so much. I don't deserve this kind of support."

Hajime pinched the bridge of his nose. "I already feel like I'm going to regret this. Whatever." He turned over to the quiet third person off in the corner. "What about you, Monaca?"

Monaca looked up from her TS Beata. "What about Mona—erm, what about me?"

"Ah, yes, have you thought of what you want to do with your future Monaca-san?"

She put away her handheld into one of her pockets. "I figured I'd stick around, too."

"Look, I know you have a crush on me but—" Hajime began.

Monaca pouted. "Not anymore! Ugh, of course I'd get attached to the one person who would be worse than big sis Junko."

"Eh?!" Nagito held his head in disbelief. "T-Take back that statement!"

"What do you mean?" Hajime asked, much calmer than his counterpart.

"I mean I know you're not an airhead like Naegi-san." Monaca pointed out. "You've got all those guys and girls all over you! I'm done and tired of fighting for affection."

"Well, I guess that's a step in the right direction. But why stay then?"

"B-Because I wanted to stick around the Nanamis."

"Huh?" Nagito continued to be shocked. "Did you fall in love with them?"

"No, stupid idiot Nagito-nii!" Monaca yelled. "It's just that... they're both cool to be around. And we play games with each other. I guess it's really nice to be with someone you just want to be a friend with. And someone you don't care to impress. They should've called her the SHSL Comfy Friend."

Hajime and Nagito both looked at each other for a few moments in silence. Then they started laughing.

"H-Hey! What's so funny?!"

Junko looked like her usual haughty self as she was facing off against the no-nonsense look of Kyoko Kirigiri.

"Ah, if it isn't the loser. To what do we owe this pleasure to?"

Kyoko didn't respond facially. "I've been told that Makoto-kun's decided to pursue a relationship with you."

"Oh? Where'd you hear that from?"

"From him, obviously. Did you think he'd dance around the subject."

Junko smiled from ear-to-ear. "Oh! He's so bold. And here I thought he'd just keep quiet about the whole thing. A beautiful scandal it would've been..."

The former SHSL Detective crossed her arms.

"And the look on your face when he would've kept another secret from you. Priceless."

"I see you've been wanting to gloat for a while now."

"Awww. It's always so fun to get under your skin, Kiri!"

"I'm more upset at myself than anything."

"Oh? Interesting."

"I, once again, let you get to me. And I ensured your victory." The lavender-haired woman grit her teeth. "I became desperate and ended up trying to play at your own game. Tch."

Junko laughed. "Ah yes! The infallible Kyoko Kirigiri once again undone by the fact that she can't socialize her way out of a paper bag."

"Hmph. Though things didn't exactly go as you planned, did they?"

The former SHSL Fashion Girl's face went completely serious, her eyes shadowed by her own bangs. Kyoko smirked in response.

"You started this just to worm your way into his heart – that much is true. But you never planned on him actually fully going along with it, did you?"

"Please. I'm despairingly irresistible. A man like Makoto wouldn't be immune to my charms."

Kyoko's face was completely calm as she continued. "You wanted to play another game. But he was the only one who refused to play. And you couldn't force him to do it in the end."

The strawberry blonde's face went completely emotionless.

"But enough of that. I came here to issue a warning."

Junko snapped out of it. "Hm? This should be good."

"Makoto-kun is still considered part of my family. Know this, Enoshima. Whatever pain you inflict on him, I'll ensure that you suffer thrice as much."

The fashionista narrowed her eyes and saw no raw anger like most people who threatened her. It was extremely unsettling. It wasn't a threat, it was a guarantee.

"...s-shit, not even Kamakura-senpai made me feel this way. Fuck! I should've went for a ménage à trois."

"Ferme ta putain de gueule. Leave me out of your twisted fantasies." Kyoko turned around. "As for myself, I have things to reflect and focus on."

Junko smirked as she watched Kirigiri take her leave. "Somethings never change, huh?"

"Congrats, guys!" Kaede smiled as the final three contestants made their way into the reception area.

"You all sure took your sweet time! I was starting to get worried about ya." Kaito said with a grin. "Good to see my sidekick and Harumaki make it. You too, Yumeno."

"Er. Thanks." Shuichi still looked as gloomy as ever. "It doesn't really feel like I won anything, though."

"Don't be so coy, Saihara-chan!" Kokichi put his hands behind his head with a sickly sweet smile. Then he turned his face into a more threatening one. "Trying to hide the fact that you three got a large cash prize for winning the game, huh? I always knew you had a shady side to you!"

"Shut up, Oma." Maki threatened. She looked over at Kaito for a few moments with a blush before returning her intense gaze back at the short, purple-haired boy. "At first I was happy. Then I realized you would be here, too."

"Waaaah! Saihara-chan and Harukawa-chan are both so mean!"

"Nyeh... you're as noisy as ever." Himiko sighed. "I still have a headache."

"D-Do you need anything, Yumeno-san?!" Tenko gasped. "I'll find it, no problem!"

"I'm fine. I just need to recharge my mana..."

"And Yumeno-chan doesn't even care!" Kokichi continued his crocadile tears. "Thats it! Make it up to me, Saihara-chan. Take me out on a date."

"Er, what? No." Shuichi staunchly stood his ground. "I'm still trying to get my bearings here. But I'm glad everyone else is alright."

"You guys were in there the longest." Rantaro pointed out. "Are you sure you're all okay?"

"That's right!" Kaede gasped as she had forgotten. "Oh, um, I know this is going to sound personal – but what were all your lives like before the killing game?"

Maki and Himiko kept silent. Shuichi looked at them both and sighed a bit.

"Oh no! Did you guys forget?"

"I don't think they forgot." Shuichi replied. "I'm guessing they're not as willing to share their stories with everyone. I mean... everyone is right here looking straight at them. I don't blame them for feeling shy."

"...Saihara." Maki murmured. She nodded and looked straight at everyone with a serious expression. "My past isn't important. I made a promise to believe in my own feelings. That's what matters now."

Miu laughed boisterously. "More like she doesn't want Oma to know shit about her past. I don't blame her!"

"Oh? The cum dumpster would know all about having an embarrassing past."

"Sh-shut the fuck up, Oma!"

Himiko sighed. "I'm not going to speak for either of them, but I'm a little more...um...embarrassed about mine. I know magic isn't real, nyeh. What a bummer..."

Angie smiled and laughed a bit. "It's okay, Himiko! Magic isn't all about spells or gods! Sometimes defying fate can also be considered magic. Isn't that right, Shuichi?"

"I'm just a hardcore fan of Danganronpa who lived with his uncle. I sounded like some kind of hero or martyr back in the game, but now I just feel tired."

"Right." Kaede sighed. "You guys haven't even gotten to sleep or eat yet, huh? Where's the staff?"

"Staff? The only person I've seen so far is Tsumugi-san."

"Huh? Wasn't Keebo-kun with you all?"

The three looked at each other and shook their heads.

"Where'd he run off to...?"

Shuichi started to drift off into sleep while standing up, suddenly jolting awake when he felt like he was going to fall over.

"D-Don't overdo it, Saihara-kun!" Kaede moved over to him immediately. "Yeah. You should take a nap at least."

"You're right."

"Hey. Do you need help getting to your room or anything?"

"...no. I'll find it myself. Thanks, Akamatsu-san." He mustered a half-smile before turning away. He left the room while everyone found themselves in uncomfortable silence.

"Saihara-kun..."

Shuichi placed his hands on the wall as if making sure he was in reality. After walking slowly through a few corridors, he found himself face-to-face with Tsumugi again. This time she was in more casual wear.

"Shirogane-san."

"Ah. Are you sure you should be walking around alone? No matter how mentally strong you are – your body is still a limiting factor, you know."

"I understand why you 'chose' me now. The last clues...all that stuff about Hope's Peak."

The blue-haired mastermind started to smile. "Indeed! Only a true fan of Danganronpa would immediately notice the discrepancies of the information that was put in."

"And you're also a fan, right?"

"That would be putting it mildly. To be able to work on this series is a dream come true. And you got to contribute as well. Isn't that nice?"

Shuichi shook his head. "You didn't go through what we did. I would never be this heartless."

"Heartless? That's just plain rude. I poured my heart into V3. This was a more personal fight than you realize."

The newly appointed SHSL Detective's eyes opened slightly. "Wait, are you...?"

"Indeed I am! You could say this was fated from the very first time I messaged you."

Saihara found himself the energy to stand straight up and look at her. "Tell me the truth. Not your half-lies like in the killing game."

"Ah. Of course the SHSL Detective would worship the truth. The truth is, we're two sides of the same coin."

He found himself cringing in distaste as he began walking over to her. She kept watching him and his movements. He stopped when he was side by side with her.

"I hate to say it, but you're right. We're two sides of the same coin. There might be a resemblance, but that means we'll never face the same direction."

"...well put."

"If I would have it my way, I'd rather not see you again."

"Hmhm. But you know it won't work out that way."

"Yeah."

A tense silence passed between the two. Then Shuichi walked past her without another word.

Chiaki found herself in the ruins of a restaurant formerly known as Apricot. Or at least that's what she heard from Makoto. She bit her lip as she was realizing the weight of what she'd done. Her thoughts wandered as to how the rest of her class was able to live with this crushing guilt. Was it because they were amoral? Was it because they were that strong? She wanted to know.

Her ears picked up someone walking in and she turned around. The SHSL Gamer found herself face-to-face with Ai who looked worried.

"...Hey hey..."

"...did you need something?" Chiaki sounded apprehensive.

"I was about to ask you the same thing." The artificial SHSL Gamer replied. "You've been avoiding everyone for the past few hours. Or...is it just me?"

"Sorry. It's just...every time I look at you, it's a little painful."

"Oh? Are my looks wrong or something?"

"It's not that. It's like watching a prerendered cutscene in a game where it looks way better than the in-game graphics. You're...the ideal me."

"I'm not you, I think. You're you."

"You sound and look the same as me. Honestly, I was thinking you would be able to take my place."

The "Ai" Chiaki shook her head furiously.

"You haven't done anything wrong. Even though you died, you didn't fall into despair like I did. Maybe its cuz you're an AI or whatever, but it doesn't matter. Weren't you the one helping everyone all this time?"

Her android counterpart started to walk toward her as she was speaking.

"I wasn't able to help anyone. I couldn't save my teacher or my classmates. I failed. But you...you helped save everyone. You got Hajime-kun to believe in himself again."

She found herself within arm's length of the one she was praising.

"So I should...I should just..."

Ai took her hands and placed something in them. Chiaki looked at it and her eyes widened.

Her old hairpin.

"...this is yours, right? I finally got to bring it back to its owner. Cuz it's yours, nee-san."

"N-Nee-san...?" Chiaki's voice found itself shaking.

Ai smiled warmly. "It's okay to fail. But it doesn't mean you should give up. And if you need help, I'll help you. And so will everyone else."

Chiaki's hand was shaking slightly as she slowly put the hairpin back on where it used to be. Tears in her eyes, she smiled back. "Thank you..."

"If anyone should be apologizing, it should be me."

The two Nanamis looked over and saw Chisa walking in with a somber attitude.

"Sensei." Chiaki softly whispered.

"...because of how careless I was, it ended up getting you killed. I'm so sorry, Chiaki-chan." Chisa bowed her head. "You shouldn't be blaming yourself for everything. I failed you as your instructor. I couldn't protect you when you needed it the most. Even worse, it was me who threw you in that death trap."

"You shouldn't blame yourself." Chiaki replied. "Enoshima was the one responsible in the end."

"Sure. That's true. But every single one of us failed. But, like Ai-chan said, that's no reason to give up. Let's try again. And this time I won't fail you as a teacher."

Both Nanamis smiled softly at the somber former SHSL Housekeeper.

"So... how about I start with treating you both out to some ice cream? Erm... when we finally leave Yokohama of course."

"Um..." Ai raised her hoodie and looked down. "I can't eat it..."

"O-Oh, right."

"But it's okay, you can tell me all about it. Cuz I still wanna know."

Chisa giggled. "Sure. How about it, Chiaki-chan?"

"That sounds really nice."

"Okay. Come on girls! Let's stop hanging out in this dusty and sad place."

Both Nanamis looked at each other and laughed quietly. Then they looked at Chisa together and said in unison, "Thanks sensei!"

"Oh geez...you two are too sweet, you know? Sweeter than any ice cream we could get. But can you two do me a favor?"

They both looked at her, waiting for what was coming next.

"Call me nee-san instead."

Makoto looked out at the ruined port. No longer filled with carefree people, it was rather desolate and depressing.

"At least the sky isn't red anymore."

"Ugh. I know, right? It was better that way." Junko placed her arm around him and grinned in his face.

"I'm going to disagree. I like breathing."

"Aw, don't be such a party pooper! It made the environment so much more dynamic. But if you're going to be such a crybaby about it, I guess we can get some gas masks."

"We're definitely not going to be doing anything like that."

"Augh! You're way too rigid sometimes, babe."

"You do realize how insane what you're saying is right?"

"Of course! That's why I'm saying it."

Makoto found himself putting his face in his palm. Junko turned around which prompted him to do the same. Mukuro looked at both of them with her classic stone-wall expression.

"Well, well. Look who decided to finally show her ugly face." Junko taunted. "What is it now, smelly?"

"Junko! Enough already. Did you need something Ikusaba-san?"

"...no. I just came by to tell you both something."

The SHSL Despair rolled her eyes. "Okay. Sure. Out with it."

Makoto watched her as she took a few moments to take a deep breath and gather her thoughts. Junko tapped the ruined and rusted railing while leaning back.

"...Junko-chan. I could never hate you. Even if I tried, I really couldn't. But...but I can't deal with this anymore. I'm more than a tool and your accomplice."

The fashionista wasn't looking impressed at the slightest.

"And Naegi-kun. I swore to be your shield but...if I stick around, I already know I'll go insane."

Makoto laughed nervously. "Ah, that makes sense. There's no problem with that. Being around your sister is a handful. I get that."

"Not just that, but to be honest... the only one dangerous to you is yourself."

He sighed in defeat with his shoulders drooping while Junko started laughing at him.

"I've talked to so many of the others. And I've learned so much. I'm forever thankful to you. You opened a door that was closed to me long ago." Mukuro smiled at Makoto. "That's why...I've decided."

Enoshima stopped laughing and leaned forward. "Oh? You having the agency to decide for yourself?"

"There was only one other time I decided for myself. It was when I ran away from home and became part of Fenrir."

Makoto noticed Junko gritting her teeth slightly at the mention of her mercenary career.

"Back then, all I learned and knew was how to kill. And so when I came back, I was so happy that my sister wanted those skills. But now... Naegi-kun, when I heard about what you were planning I was moved."

"Really? I thought I was just sharing my pipe dream."

Mukuro shook her head. "You're always thinking of others. So I know what's precious to you. And that's what I've decided to protect."

"Ikusaba-san..."

"...and maybe I'll find my own path along the way." Mukuro looked out to the bright sky. "They say the moon is a wolf's best friend, but the sun isn't so bad. Maybe next time I see you I'll no longer be a confused girl. But a woman you can be proud of."

She turned from them, feeling light in her step. "So this isn't goodbye. It's a 'see you later."

Junko's face was completely devoid of emotion as she watched her twin sister walk away from her. Not out of fear, but with renewed purpose.

"Tch. Saying that sort of cheesy shit with a straight face. Still... you've really come a long way, haven't you Mukuro-nee?"

Makoto crossed his arms with a proud smile on his face.

"And you! Taking away all my toys! But at least I got myself a boytoy..."

"Sometimes you're just too much."

"Oh, you haven't seen anything yet. Upupupu..."

It had been a few weeks since their killing game ended. Tsumugi had disappeared from the island as they were greeted by mysterious men-in-black belonging to the Togami group. After being filled in on the situation by the professional paramilitary members about the state of the world outside, everyone was sent back to where they came from. Most of them were lucky – a good number of them lived outside of Tokyo and Yokohama where the most devastation occurred. But Shuichi and Kaede both lived in Yokohama and weren't able to reunite with their families due to how crowded the emergency shelters were.

Kaede found herself watching a livestream of the final V3 episode and watching how crazy the live chat was. As Tsumugi prophesied, people were outright hating or loving the ending. Tons of fanworks appeared and people were talking all about it despite the tragedy that happened weeks before.

"Mmhm. Yeah. I'm fine. Living in our old place isn't bad – there's just no running water. Yeah there's a well. Okay, uncle. Yeah. I'll be safe. Bye." Shuichi ended the call on his cellphone while peering over at what Kaede was watching.

"...wow. I didn't realize it was going to be crazy. And a lot of people seem to really love or hate Oma-kun."

"Well, didn't Amami-kun say he's the type of 'pretty boy' that would be really popular with the fans. He'd know a thing or two about it."

Kaede giggled. "Yeah. You've got a point. Still, are we really the only two that lived here?"

"Yeah. I kinda miss everyone."

"Me too. I also miss all the shops and events that happened here, too."

"It's getting better. Things are rebuilding." Shuichi said with a somber note. "When people want to live, they'll do anything to get it done."

"Yeah, but I wish sometimes it didn't have to mean we would have to live in fear of looters and warlords. What a mess..."

Both of them laid back on the bench they were both sitting on.

"Hey, are you two alright?"

The two looked over and saw a man in a green hoodie run over to them.

"Oh, aren't you...Makoto Naegi-san?" Kaede asked.

"Kaede Akamatsu and Saihara Shuichi, right?"

"Was your name actually Makoto Naegi?" Shuichi sighed. "No way...does this mean...?"

"You two met before?" Kaede asked.

"Oh. We met during DanganFES a few months ago. We played a killing game together."

"Erm..."

"Don't worry. It was completely virtual. And it didn't mess with our heads."

Kaede sweat a little bit. "Well, if you say so."

"Sorry if I called you boring, Naegi-san."

Makoto pondered. "Huh? Oh, yeah you did didn't you? Don't worry. I didn't remember until you said something."

"Ergh..." Shuichi felt like he had his foot in his mouth.

The older brown-haired man laughed. "Don't worry. I wasn't offended. Honest."

"What are you doing here, Naegi-san?" Kaede asked. Shuichi noticed that she completely lowered her guard around him. "I thought you'd be in shelter with most people."

"Actually, I was looking for you two."

The two former V3 Protagonists looked at each other with complete confusion.

"I'm normally not on the field but it was important that I reach you two. I heard about how you've gotten SHSL talents from that killing game of yours."

Shuichi interrupted. "And what do you want with that knowledge?"

Makoto reached into his hoodie and searched for something until he found it. "Ah. Here." He handed over a small card to Kaede.

She studied it. "Is this a business card...?"

"Yeah. I'd like for you two to think about it. Erm... joining us, I mean."

Shuichi's eyes lit up.

"You guys have great survival skills along with those SHSL talents of yours. I think you two would fit in perfectly. And we've also reached out to the rest of, um, your class."

Kaede smiled at Shuichi. "Well?"

The young teen who no longer had a Black Cap looked up at Makoto Naegi.

ANote

side: Truth
IS COMPLETE

side: Recovery
COMING SOON

If you've made it this far since the first chapter, I want to personally thank you for sticking by this story for so long. When I started writing this fanfic, I really had no expectations. This was the first time in a very long time that I took to writing again. With everyone's support and kind words, along with a pandemic at the time of when this was completed, I managed to push out an arc that I could say I was happy with producing. But things aren't quite over yet.

Once again, thank you all so much.

-A