#kirumi is getting infected with those thoughts

[review-anon]

Jeez, if it isn't one crisis around here, it's another!

So wait...this isn't a simple suit Gokuhara?

Gonta not know what it is! All Gonta knows is Kirumi put suit on and can't take off!

It hurts...it hurts so much....

We will find a way to get it off you Kirumi, don't you worry.

The pain...is nothing like what my people are experiencing right now...from the blood of traitors and flithy Americans roaming around.

Erm....why are you making those noises?

Old language Gonta knows. Kirumi understands it.

Kirumi keeps claiming Americans at fault.

T-that's not good! A lot of Godzilla films are the result of nuclear testing by the Americans to create him, and some of them have very heavy nationalist vibes to them!

Given the fact we do have Americans and hafus on the Voidship...they would be in danger if we don't do something.

[mythgirlimagines]

I’m sorry for being late! Guess you could call this a tardy Talentswap Tuesday! Anyway, introducing Myth, the Former Ultimate Nurse!

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BACKSTORY AND TALENT

Growing up, Myth was one of the more empathetic and level-headed people of her friend group. She’s always carrying a first aid kit, in case her friends get into any accidents. After her recent scoliosis surgery, Myth decided to get into the medical field, and she started by volunteering at multiple hospitals in her teen years. She was well-known amongst her patients for her kind-hearted and courteous attitude and her amazing bedside manner. But what really catapulted her to medical stardom, was her involvement in the “M-0 H-5” incident. After a fiery explosion at a rock concert has left the lead vocalist amputated, burned, and partially deaf, Myth managed to stay calm and heal up the rock star, until she could stand again.  In her adult years, she is studying hard to pass medical school. But she is willing to put her studies aside to chaperone the Ultimates and Jr. Ultimates on their Kibo-Con journey.

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RELATIONSHIPS

Wyre Anon, Former Ultimate Musician

Ever since Myth met Wyre at the “M-O H-5” incident, Myth has been helping Wyre get back up and rocking again. Despite their clashing personalities, they get along very well. Although Myth usually has to remind Wyre to wear her hearing aid and prosthetic arm, for Wyre has a very bad tendency to be reckless and impulsive, and thus regularly forgets them.

Anon Scar, Ultimate Animator

While Myth admires Scar’s dedication to her craft, Myth wishes that Scar wouldn’t sacrifice precious sleeping hours to work on her latest project. It‘s very clear that all of those sleepless nights had taken a toll on Scar’s mind, for her “Demon of Reanimation” schtick is heavily concerning Myth to say the least.

Fusion Anon, Reserve Course Student

Both Fusion and Myth have a mutual respect for each other, in part due to their similar wise and caring personalities and even interests. They regularly meet up with each other to have conversations about various topics over some healthy snacks, such as studying methods and the antics of their more reckless classmates.

Fusion Anon II, Ultimate Mechanic

While they initially didn’t get along very well due to their opposing personalities, they both found a common interest after Myth witnessed Fusion II not only fix but also improve Wyre’s robot arm: prosthetics! Now Fusion II is on Wyre duty alongside Myth, watching over Wyre and making sure that she doesn’t damage her prosthetic limb again.

Just Anon, Ultimate Yakuza

Between Janon‘s hostile demeanor and his dangerous family business, Janon is one of the most concerning individuals in Myth’s book, and that just gives her more reasons to constantly keep an eye on him. Janon can’t stand Myth’s constant coddling of him every time he gets harmed in fights against rival yakuza families. Janon’s resentment of Myth isn’t helped by her constant teasing of him over his romantic feelings for Curious.

Sparkle Anon, Former Ultimate Team Manager

Apart from Wyre, Sparkle is the Former Ultimate that Myth gets along with the most. They both could, in a way, be considered the ”moms” of the Kibo-Con roster, for they regularly care for and pump up the young Anons, when they’ve got a bad day. Behind closed doors, Myth regularly flirts with Sparkle, which only manages to boost Sparkle’s already large ego.

Egg Anon, Former Ultimate Gamer, and Wet Sock Anon, Former Ultimate Photographer

This cursed twosome manages to tick a lot of boxes in Myth’s checklist for “NEEDS HELP IMMEDIATELY”. Between Wet Sock’s violent and aggressive attitude and cursed comments, and Egg’s impulsive and somehow even more cursed comments, Myth regularly tries to crack open the Freak Twins’ psyche to find out exactly what went wrong in the twin‘s life to make them act this way.

Curious Anon, Jr. Ultimate Animal Breeder

You’d think that with their similar talents, Myth and Curious would fit each other like a glove, and you’d be right. Curious has a calm and tranquil demeanor that puts Myth at ease whenever she interacts with both them and their pet Collie, Barkley. Barkley reminds Myth of her own dog back home, and that just makes her even happier being around Curious.

Anon Nerd, Former Ultimate Traditional Dancer

While Nerd‘s dance moves are tranquil and peaceful, Nerd has a foul-temper, and the mouth to match when off the stage. You’d think that it’ll discourage Myth from interacting with him, but there is a slight issue: Nerd has a very blatant crush on Myth, that he isn’t doing a very good job of hiding. Myth regularly flirts with the dancer, and endures fan smacks and geta stomps from him. It’ll be worth it in the end, when she gets him to open up to her.

Dream Anon, Ultimate Princess

Myth can’t help but feel humbled when around the crowned princess of the island nation of Kyuuhai, but Dream insists that she should be treated like any other student here. Dream is always happy to show off the customs and athletics of her home country. Unfortunately for Myth, Dream has a hostile bodyguard/boyfriend that prevents Myth from getting closer to her. Speaking of which…

Eldritch Anon, Ultimate Swordsman

Having been trained as Dream’s bodyguard for all of his life, Eldritch has a hostile distrust towards everyone, apart from Dream, and Myth is sadly not an exception to this. However, Myth is working hard to prove to the overzealous swordfighter that she is worth trusting. From patching up Eldritch after sparring sessions to attempting to set up Eldritch and Dream on a date, Myth’s attempts have slowly, but surely restored Eldritch’s trust in people.

Iris Anon, Jr. Ultimate Gymnast

Iris might just hold the record for the most visits to Myth’s office, and the various bandages on her person could easily explain why. Despite her talent requiring grace, Iris is superbly clumsy when off of the balance beam. Myth ends up regularly thinking, “Oh, Iris! What will I ever do with you?” anytime Iris has an accident and Myth winds up having to patch her up. 

Purple Anon, Ultimate Lucky Student

While Iris holds the record for most visits to Myth’s office, Purple holds the record for most accidents escaped unscathed. Because of Purple’s timid and avoidant nature towards anyone besides Fusion, Myth isn’t really given many opportunities to talk with or socialize with her. According to Fusion, Purple avoids others to prevent them from being infected by her luck and dying in an future accident because of it.

-——————————————————

APPEARANCE

Nurse!Myth wears her undyed hair in a shoulder-length bob that covers her right eye. Her hair is decorated with a white flower barrette and a pink hairband with a heart pin. She wears a white lab coat with a Red Cross design on each pocket and pink lining on the end of the sleeves and pockets, over a pink turtle neck sweater. She also wears a teal skirt, black stockings and white slip-on shoes with pink soles and a Red Cross design that matches her lab coat.

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PERSONALITY

Around the younger Anons, Nurse!Myth is a calm and tranquil person, who would always be there for you in case of an emergency or a bad day. So, Nurse!Myth is more of a mom compared to Romantic!Myth. But when around the Former Ultimates, she shows a more devious side. Around the adults, Nurse!Myth drops her ”mom friend” facade, and becomes more teasy and flirtatious, a bit more like Romantic!Myth. Nurse!Myth just lives for the reactions of the people she flirts with. Despite her laid-back attitude, Nurse!Myth is still very studious and educated. She is a professional nurse, after all. Nurse!Myth’s personality can best be described as Kirumi with a hidden Teruteru side.

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Once again, I’d like to apologize for my tardiness, but I hope this Myth makes up for it? What do you think of Nurse!Myth and the other talentswaps in this AU? I’d love to hear your personal thoughts on this AU!

-Fusion Anon

—

No need to apologize! I really really like this version of me, it kinda showed me a little of what it would be like if I had become a doctor or nurse (which I actually did want to do after my surgery haha). I think I would like to be her the most out of the other Myths

[takonei]

Beta AU - Main story, Chapter 3, deadly life (Part 3)

Note of the author: *breathes in* LETS FUCKING GOOOOOOO

Chapter 3: What is beyond humans’ control - Deadly life

...

Monokuma explained the rules of the class trial as usual.

Shuichi was starting to remember them by heart, which was not a good thing.

He nervously glanced at Kokichi, who was now the first person to his left. He was exactly like when they had found Keebo dead earlier.

Gaze kept to the ground, unwilling to look at anyone in the eye, and a dreadful expression of guilt on his face.

“I’m suggesting we talk about Himiko first, since she is our top priority.” Tsumugi started.

“Agreed. The sooner we solve this atrocity, the better.” Kiyo confirmed.

“Is it really useful to talk about the murder weapon?” Kaito asked. “I mean there were so many of them back in the shrine...”

“Well, from what I’ve seen from the autopsy there are a few things that could be discussed.” Rantaro replied.

“There is something I would like to ask first.” Tsumugi raised a hand, interrupting Rantaro.

“What is it?” Shuichi turned to the girl.

“How was the motive handled by all of you?” she asked.

“Ryoma, Kokichi and you were placed in the three empty rooms on the fourth floor, that the others had equipped for you to be comfortable while things calmed down.” Rantaro explained.

“Since taking care of patients in emergency situations is literally my talent, I volunteered to be the one in charge alone so the others wouldn’t risk getting infected as well.”

“Since I was trained to stay half awake and on guard, that included me resting on a chair in front of your rooms in case something went wrong.”

She nodded, but looked incredibly skeptic. “I see.”

Ryoma crossed his arms. “If you have something to say about the way we were handled, then perhaps now isn’t the time to complain.”

Tsumugi shook her head. “No. I’m talking about something else.” She fiddled with a lock of her hair. “We can all agree that all the weapons came from different labs, correct?”

Shuichi nodded. “Yes, the scissors came from Maki’s lab, we have some tools from Angie’s and Rantaro’s labs, knives from Kirumi’s lab and even darts from Kokichi’s lab.”

"Then something doesn’t quite make sense.”

“What doesn’t? The killer went to the labs to take them! We all saw how they were all messed up during the investigation!” Miu countered.

“No I mean...” the prodigy narrowed her eyes. “Rantaro was the one guarding our rooms in case something went wrong, right?” She turned to the medic.

“My question is, how did the killer even managed to get all those weapons without Rantaro noticing anything?”

Shuichi’s heart skipped a beat.

“What?” he instinctively said.

Rantaro sighed. “I wanted to stay silent until the trial so whoever did this would have less time to think of an excuse in case they thought I wouldn’t notice it but...”

“... I believe I was drugged last night.”

Kirumi raised an eyebrow. “You ‘believe’? Did you or did you not get drugged last night?”

He crossed his arms on his podium. “It means I didn’t feel someone physically injecting me something, but I’m sure as hell whatever dinner you gave me had soporifics in it.”

“Huh??” Miu’s eyes widened in confusion.

“Hold on. What happened to you last night?” Ryoma gestured to the others to let him speak.

“Miu and Shuichi gave me dinner for the ill ones and me. You two can testify to that.” he explained.

Shuichi nodded. “Well, Kirumi prepared the meals and asked us to bring them to you, so we did.”

Angie put her elbows on her podium, head in her palms. “Kirumi prepared those meals? Pretty suspicious~”

“Let Rantaro finish his testimony.” Kiyo requested.

“Thank you.” Rantaro nodded. “You two gave me three of those meals to give to the sick ones and Shuichi put one of them in my lab for me to grab after I make sure they eat properly.”

Shuichi now realized how suspicious he looked. Was Rantaro doubting him? He wouldn’t even be mad if that was the case, considering how many times he doubted the medic.

“I... I promise I didn’t do anything-”

“Let him finish his testimony.” Ryoma glared at him.

After a short silence, Rantaro continued. “Once the three finished, I went back to my lab to eat, and so I did. After that I took time to wash the dishes and disinfect them.”

He clenched his fists resting on the podium. “But by the time I was done, I was starting to feel tired and I believe I collapsed in the stairs between the third and the fourth floor.”

Tsumugi slightly tilted her head. “Is there anything that could prove your testimony? You could be babbling lies for all we know. Even though you made your intentions very clear last trial, understand that I will only believe you if you show some evidence of the incident.”

“Actually I can!” Miu put her hands on the podium.

Shuichi understood what she meant.

“That’s right... Didn’t you say you found Rantaro sleeping in his lab this morning?”

The street artist nodded. “He was sleeping in his lab and not on the chair in front of the rooms on the fourth floor!”

“Are you saying this was a set-up by the killer to incriminate Rantaro?” Kiyo pondered.

“Drugging the one taking care of others? That’s a low blow...” Angie noted.

“Could you explain your reasoning in more details? This is a rather weak argument in my opinion. Rantaro could have taken the second chair to his lab.” Tsumugi asked.

Upon a quick glance, Shuichi could see the medic’s nails digging into the wooden podium. Considering her attitude last trial, she wouldn’t stop accusing Rantaro for a while.

“When I brought dinner in Rantaro’s lab yesterday, there weren’t any chairs at all in the room. I’m sure of it.” Shuichi explained. “What did the chair look like?”

“It looked like one of the chairs in Kirumi’s lab.”

“My lab?” Kirumi repeated.

“Definitely from your lab.”

The mercenary pondered for a moment. “I was in my lab until nighttime to do my regular cleaning. And no chairs were missing, I’m sure of it.”

Tsumugi continued her interrogation. “And when exactly was the dinner brought to the Despair disease group?”

“It was around 7 PM, I think?” Miu turned to Shuichi.

“I would say between 7:00 PM and 7:30 PM.” the violinist confirmed.

Kaito looked at his monopad. “But if Kirumi was in her lab he couldn’t have taken it!”

“So if Rantaro didn’t take it between after dinner and the nighttime announcement I think we can safely say that he actually never did.” Shuichi concluded.

Tsumugi stayed silent for a second.

“... Not the strongest argument, but we cannot afford to be picky about this for now.”

Rantaro let out a small sigh of relief. At least the prodigy seemed to have learned since last trial.

Angie tapped her cheek with a finger. “But the killer would have to put the soporific in Rantaro’s plate specifically, right? Which means...”

She turned to Shuichi, tilting her head to the side. “... That whoever put the plate in Rantaro’s lab was the one to do it.”

“In other words, you, Shuichi.”

His heart skipped a beat. Everyone’s eyes were on him.

“I- um...”

He had never been accused directly by someone. Last time, Ryoma had suspected a whole group including him, but direct accusation felt different.

He hated it.

Ryoma, Tsumugi and Angie’s accusatory glares sent chills down his spine.

Miu and Kaito waited for his answer with worry on their faces. Like they wanted to believe he didn’t do it. It was his idea to go in Rantaro’s lab by himself to put the plate here. Was Miu staying silent for his sake?

Kirumi, Kiyo and Rantaro were unreadable. It was clear that they didn’t care who was the blackened. They only wanted to stay alive at all costs, which was understandable.

But upon a quick glance, even though Shuichi was accused of killing Himiko of all people, Kokichi wasn’t even looking at him, and he could understand even less what he was thinking.

Was Kokichi wondering something?

He pushed that idea aside. He had to find a good defense, quick.

“I-”

“I don’t know why you think that, but Rantaro wasn’t the only one to get drugged yesterday.”

Everyone suddenly turned to the source of the voice.

Kokichi.

“... What?”

“Yesterday after Rantaro gave me dinner I felt tired and fell asleep soon after.” he said in a low voice.

“So all the plates were drugged after all?” Kaito voiced.

“Now hold on a second.” Tsumugi frowned. “You remember what happened while you had the disease?”

“So you don’t remember either, Tsumugi.” Ryoma confirmed.

She brought up an important point. If those two had no memory of the last few days, how could Kokichi be the only one to remember?

Kokichi looked at Tsumugi with confused eyes. “You... Don’t...?”

It’s true that he hadn’t been there when Tsumugi informed them about this. But the situation felt strange.

“So you just had a fever after all?” Rantaro asked.

Shuichi thought about the day the disease appeared.

...

“W-wait…”

Kokichi raised his hand. “I d-don’t really know… M-Maybe I’m wrong but… I feel like I have it t-too…”

Himiko jumped. “Huh? Really?”

He nodded. “I… I feel dizzy a-and my head is spinning… But I don’t feel any mental change s-so I’m not sure.”

Rantaro approached him and put the palm of his hand on the small boy’s forehead. “You’re feverish. We shouldn’t take any risks.”

...

“I don’t know... Maybe but I... Don’t really know...” Kokichi muttered.

Shuichi may not be the best at reading people, but it was easy to see that the shock, the grief was getting to him to the point of not feeling like doing anything.

That there was no point in continuing.

An atrocious feeling of pure despair.

Kirumi pondered. “We know someone put soporifics in the meals. At least we’re getting somewhere.”

Tsumugi crossed her arms. “I still don’t exclude Rantaro as a suspect since there was a possibility he didn’t want us possibly interrupting him.”

Rantaro rolled his eyes. “Whatever. I’m not even trying to convince you anymore.”

“That means we can exclude the ill ones as suspects, right?” Kaito asked.

“I wouldn’t say so that soon.” Tsumugi replied. “Rantaro was still the only one to look after us. Sneaking out was definitely a possibility.”

“That includes you, doesn’t it?” Angie asked.

“It also includes Ryoma and Kokichi. I know better than to exclude myself as a suspect to the price of excluding the culprit as well.”

Shuichi glanced at the other two in question. Ryoma was pretty unlikely considering how he acted the morning he got the disease.

And Kokichi... He was still a mystery. But if he really was the culprit, why would he defend Rantaro and him?

It wouldn’t make sense, but this was not out of the question.

If only they knew what Kokichi even had. That would at least help them understanding the situation.

“Say, Kokichi, do you still feel feverish?” Rantaro raised an eyebrow. He seemed to be wondering the same.

“Not really... I feel awful but... Not physically.” he mumbled. “I’m just tired.”

“If his symptoms stopped right after Himiko died, then surely he had the disease, right?” Angie questioned.

“That’s most likely, but Rantaro, can you confirm the lack of mental change for him?” Kirumi added.

“Nope. No mental change, I’m sure of it.” he answered.

“Is this really important, though?” Tsumugi asked. “We’re straying away from our objective he-”

“How about I spice things up for a change?” Monokuma interrupted.

Angie looked confused. “Spice things up...?”

“I am suggesting you all a deal!”

Shuichi frowned. “What do you mean?”

“Here’s the deal. If you investigate Keebo’s death, which I doubt any of you will do by yourself in this class trial, I will reveal Karma boy’s condition!”

Kiyo looked unimpressed. “... You just admitted the two deaths were not linked in the slightest.”

The bear started sweating. “That’s- Not-”

“It’s not like we didn’t expect it.” Ryoma rolled his eyes.

“Hey! I can’t let you do a class trial with two deaths without any of you investigating the second!” the bear yelled.

The group exchanged glances.

“What do we do...? Is it really that important?” Shuichi pondered.

“If Monokuma suggests telling us that probably means something.” Kiyo put a finger on his chin.

The group started arguing whether or not it was a good idea.

“My, my... Am I hearing a split opinion?” Monokuma put his paws on his mouth.

“I swear I’m going to break this bear into pieces one day.” Ryoma muttered under his breath.

Monokuma placed the key in the lock and turning it.

The podiums started elevating, creating two sides.

This was the third time this happened, and yet Shuichi really couldn’t get used to getting so high in the air, holding onto the podium as hard as he could.

The podiums separated into two sides.

Is Keebo’s death worth investigating?

On the left, Rantaro, Tsumugi, Kirumi, Miu and Kaito. It’s not worth it!

On the right, Ryoma, Shuichi, Kokichi, Kiyo and Angie. It’s worth it!

Scrum debate, start!

Tsumugi: The two deaths are unrelated. We only need to find the first killer!

Ryoma: Because the two deaths are unrelated doesn’t mean Keebo doesn’t deserve justice.

Kirumi: Even if Monokuma reveals what Kokichi’s condition was, I doubt this will truly be useful for this case.

Kokichi: At least I want to know what my condition was...

Miu: But if the two are unrelated, what kind of hints would it give us?

Kiyo: If Monokuma makes a deal with us about it, then it’s probably an important hint.

Kaito: Monokuma could be lying to us for all we know!

Angie: Monokuma is loyal to his rules, lying wouldn’t be good for him~~

Rantaro: There is still a time limit. We can debate about this after the trial is over!

Shuichi: There is a chance Monokuma will give us hints about Keebo’s death as well if we do it during this trial!

The podiums went back to normal.

“Please guys... I know we shouldn’t agree with Monokuma but we could miss a major hint...”

The other group glanced at each other.

Rantaro sighed. “We don’t have a choice, do we?”

Monokuma chimed in. “Nope! You guys will investigate on both deaths! I’m just offering you a nice reward if you do it now!”

The medic glared at the bear for a second. “... Alright. Then it’s for the best.”

“We have to investigate Keebo’s death.”

[sinfulwonders]

👀

Have a different despair disease Kokichi WIP. This one is near completion, but I just felt like something was off about it and never could figure it out to post it! So now it gets to see the light of day because of this WIP challenge :P

Nothing but the Truth

When Kokichi awoke in his dorm room to the sound of the morning announcement, something felt off. The room felt colder than usual and his head was pounding. He wiped a few beads of sweat from his forehead and stumbled out of bed.

Am I getting sick?

Kokichi made his way to his bathroom and was taken aback by how pale his already snow white skin looked. His eyes looked sunken in, as if he hadn’t slept in days, while his purple locks clung to his sweaty forehead.

“I look like shit…” Kokichi mumbled aloud, frowning.

He staggered back towards his warm bed, but before he made it there he heard an all too familiar sound:

DING DONG BING BONG

“All students report to the gym for an announcement! And that means ALL students!” Monokuma’s voice rung out loudly through the speakers, causing Kokichi’s aching head to throb even more.

On an average day Kokichi spent more time on his appearance than he would care to admit, but today he barely got his shirt on correctly. He cursed the clasps as he struggled. But eventually, the sickly boy made his way to the gym.

At the entrance, Kokichi was greeted by a smiling Maki.

“Good morning Kokichi!!!” She beamed, sweat forming under her bangs.

“Umm…” Kokichi had no idea how to respond to this.

Maki’s eyes got wide with concern, “What’s the matter Kokichi?”

What the hell is this? Maki has never said a nice thing to me; is she stealing my shtick and trying to be sarcastic? Is she trying to tease me? Well I guess I need to teach her who’s she’s messing with.

Kokichi rounded up as much of what little strength he had in his current state and gave her one of his best smirks. He answered with as much enthusiasm as he could-

“I feel horrible, Maki. I think I may be sick.”

What the hell was that? I went in to mock her, tell her I feel *absolutely wonderful*, but that’s not what happened…What the hell is going on?

As the rest of the class wandered in, they suddenly heard a laugh at the front of the gym.

“Puhuhuhuhu!”

Monokuma landed on the podium, and lifted his arms in the air, like a gymnast does after a landing, “Listen up, Kiddos! Back by popular demand: The Despair Disease!”

Popular demand? Well that supports my theory that this dumb game is being shown to…someone... But what the hell is the despair disease?

“Now some of you may have noticed that a few of your friends are acting strange. And some of you may be feeling pretty under the weather by now. Well welcome to your Killing Game Motive! Since none of you have had the balls to kill anyone, we’re gonna switch up some of those pesky personalities of yours!”

“Switch up our personalities?” Spoke up the timid detective, hiding under his hat.

“Yep! Cool innit? The despair disease has a pesky side effect! Besides making you feel like shit and nearly killing you, it also effects your personality! Each effect on a person is different, but as the saying goes: opposites attract! Look at Maki for example! Usually so stoic and calm! But today she’s as friendly as ever! That’s why she has the Bubbly disease! Now I gave you that one for free, but you’ll have to figure out the other students that have it yourself! But watch out, Kiddos. It’s contagious!”

As Monokuma said those last words and disappeared from the podium, everyone took a step back from one another. Only Monokuma’s wretched laugh echoed through the silent room. It was a while before anyone spoke.

Finally Maki smiled and said, “That’s weird what Monokuma said, cuz I feel great! I don’t feel diseased or despaired at all! Guess he was wrong!” She gave a peppy shrug and began to skip away.

“Wait Maki! We need to stick together!” yelled Kaito, the spiky haired boy beginning to follow her.

Kokichi rolled my eyes.

Why couldn’t that big oaf get the disease? His personality is infuriating.

“Kaito is right, Maki. We need to figure out who exactly has this supposed disease…” Shuichi started strong, and then trailed off as the group looked at him. He pushed his hat down a bit to hide a slight blush.

Kokichi caught it and sighed, “What a cutie…” He instantly clamped his hand over his mouth. Luckily, no one heard him.

What the hell was that? Why did I say that out loud? Could this be the despair disease?

Kokichi slunk in the background so as not to draw attention to himself, as the group discussed options and eventually opted to have the infected people be confined to their rooms. Kokichi rolled his eyes.

I really need to keep investigating this stupid place. I can’t afford these idiots locking me up for who knows how long.

Kokichi stifled a cough as they asked everyone who was feeling ill, disoriented, or just different to raise their hands. The boy averted his gaze from the others and did not raise his hand.

“Kokichi said he was sick!” Maki sang, her hands behind her back as she swayed back and forth like an excited child. Her pigtails completed the look.

Oh my fucking God Maki. The one time I want you to keep your damn mouth shut you’re feeling extra ready to share. Just my luck.

Kokichi glared and then quickly plastered his signature devious smirk on his face.

“Kokichi- you don’t look so good…” Shuichi took a step towards him.

“You’re right, I feel terrible!” Kokichi blurted and then threw his hand over his mouth. He had tried to reply with an insult and a vague non answer to the question, but had said what he was actually thinking.

Miu burst out laughing, “Oh man! Monokuma did say it made people the opposite! It looks like Cock-ichi can’t lie!”

Kokichi glared and started to retort back. But he choked his words back and just looked at the ground.

I wouldn’t be able to say anything that I wanted to anyway. This is so boring.

Kokichi looked back up at the group, “I’m going to my room. I’m bored.”

Good, I was able to say that at least. But without my lies…I guess I need to wait for this crap to wear off.

Kokichi took a few steps, glaring daggers at a still snickering Miu, but as he passed her he faltered. He started coughing and he almost fell over. While Miu stopped smiling, Shuichi ran up to the boy.

“Kokichi!” he cried as he helped him up, “Do you need help back to your room?”

Ugh I hate this. I’m so freaking helpless. And of course, Shuichi is the first to come to my aid. He’s always so freaking considerate. Bleh. Boring. I just need to tell him that he can go to Hell.

Kokichi rolled his eyes and spit out the word, “Yes.” He instantly frowned and his eyes shot to the floor.

Shuichi smiled and turned back to the others, “Will you make sure that Maki gets back to her room, Kaito?” Kaito nodded and Shuichi glanced at Maki who pouted, “And actually stays there?” Kaito gave him a wide grin and a thumbs up.

Bleh, I wish I could say anything to wipe that stupid “heroic” grin off of Kaito’s face. Actually, I just wish I could say anything. This is the worssssst.

Shuichi and Kokichi made their way back to the dorms in silence. Partway through Kokichi began to lose balance again, so Shuichi insisted that Kokichi lean on him for support. Kokichi replied with an exhausted nod. Kokichi, being the smaller of the two males, forced Shuichi to lean over so that he could drape his arm around his shoulder. He leaned his body into the taller boy, and they began their journey once again.

He smells nice…

“Umm, thanks Kokichi…” Shuichi stammered.

“Oh god, did I say that out loud?” Kokichi’s face turned bright red.

Shuichi gave the boy a kind smile, “Yeah, you kind of did…”

Kokichi eyes immediately shot to the ground.

Jesus. I must be getting delirious. This is the most embarrassing day of my life.

The two continued, making the journey in a now awkward silence. As they got to the Kokichi’s room, Kokichi wrestled with the key until finally opening the door to his messy room. Shuichi helped the boy to his bed and sat him down.

“Do you…need anything else?” Shuichi looked down at his feet as he said it.

For you to leave!

“I’m hungry…and thirsty,” Kokichi whispered.

Ugh God dammit!

“I can go get Kirumi to make you something! What would you like?” Shuichi exclaimed, excited that he could be useful in some way.

Kokichi blushed at the enthusiastic boy, trying to ignore how cute he looked when he was excited, “I guess…soup.”

“Of course! I’ll be right back!”

The detective ran off, on a mission. When the door shut, Kokichi used the opportunity to let out a loud, dramatic sigh. He fell back and hit the pillow.

Shuichi is the worst person for me to be around right now. He’s a detective. He knows how to get information out of people, and now I can’t even lie to him. Also…it sucks that he’s so damn hot.

Kokichi had been attracted to Shuichi since the first time he had met him. He was a quiet, socially awkward boy, but the aura of mystery that he had around him was intoxicating. He seemed like he was always thinking, that his wheels were always spinning, coming up with new theories about everything.

Has he ever spent any of long periods of time thinking about me? Trying to figure me out?

Not only was Shuichi obviously incredibly intelligent with an eye for detail that no one could match, but the detective was incredibly caring and genuine about his feelings.

He knows the intricacies of the world, and how corrupt most people’s intentions are, and still chooses to wear his heart on his sleeve. It’s…I can’t do that…

As Kokichi was absorbed in his thoughts of Shuichi, the boy in question knocked.

“I have soup!”

“Come in…” Kokichi coughed.

Shuichi entered, carrying a very well presented tray, obviously set by Kirumi. The soup smelled amazing, and when the detective handed it over, Kokichi couldn’t help but take a big gulp.

“Ahh!”

“Oh! It’s still hot!” Shuichi exclaimed, quickly handing Kokichi the glass of water on the tray. Shuichi tried not to smile at Kokichi fanning his tongue with surprise. The Ultimate Supreme Leader looked so childlike and innocent.

As Kokichi gulped down the water, his eyes made contact with the concerned detective’s. He gave him a sheepish grin and reddened, “I should have known…”

Shuichi couldn’t help but let out a laugh, surprised at how strangely adorable Kokichi was acting.

“You have such a cute laugh, Shuichi!” Kokichi exclaimed, and then slapped a hand over his mouth, his face now entirely crimson.

“Th-thanks, Kokichi,” Shuichi decided to take the compliment in stride. After all, Kokichi couldn’t help it, and it was a rare instance where he knew Kokichi wasn’t secretly insulting him.

Kokichi placed the tray next to his bed and buried his face in his pillow.

I wasn’t even trying to say anything and that slipped out! The truth is getting harder and harder to contain! Why is this happening to me??

Kokichi felt his bed sink with pressure. He looked up to see that Shuichi had sat next to the sprawled boy. He placed a comforting hand on the boy’s upper back.

“I’m so sorry you’re going through this, Kokichi,” Shuichi said with a compassionate smile, “But can I ask you something? You don’t have to answer if you don’t want to…”

Kokichi thought about it for a moment. Then slowly nodded.

“Well this disease is obviously very difficult for you. And I’m sure most people would hate it…I mean… not getting a say on whether you give a truthful, untruthful, or even partially true answer…would suck. But you’re really struggling, Kokichi. Why is it that you lie constantly? Do you hate the truth?”

Kokichi pondered, then slowly, logically, stated, “That’s more than one question.” He smirked at his ability to still give at least a partially sarcastic response.

Shuichi chuckled, “Then the first one then. Why is it that you lie constantly?”

Do I even know the answer to that question? I’m sure I did initially, but I’ve been lying to myself for so long that I don’t know if any answer I give would be a truly honest answer.

“To protect myself. Fear, insecurities, feelings… they all can be detrimental. But lies protect you. From enemies, friends… even yourself. Lying is my armor.” Kokichi left his mouth agape as the answer escaped his lips. He knew it was true even though he hadn’t been able to come up with it on his own.

Shuichi nodded in understanding, “Thank you for your honesty, Kokichi.”

Kokichi smiled. He tried to say no problem, but instead said, “I hadn’t even admitted that to myself before.”

I hate this stupid, goddamn disease!

The boy punched the pillow in frustration. Shuichi reached out instinctually and touched Kokichi’s forearm. The boy jerked away from the detective and glared.

“Oh I’m sorry!” Apologized the embarrassed detective, “I’ll l-let you get some rest…”

The boy quickly exited the room, assuming that the other was angry with him. As Shuichi closed the door, Kokichi’s face softened into a regretful frown, and he let a quiet word escape his lips.

“Stay…”

 ----------------

Kokichi awoke with a start. He tried to jump up, but then the previous day’s events hit him like a truck. Or that was possibly the feeling of his head pounding. The sick boy recalled the illness that had befallen the group of students, effecting him and Maki, at the very least. He also recalled the unusual interaction with Shuichi and his face flushed.

He probably thinks I hate him. Well… that’s actually a good thing for both of us. But still, it bothers me if I made him sad for no reason. And it pisses me off that it bothers me!

Thinking about that made Kokichi’s face turn an even darker shade of red. It was in that moment that he heard a knock at the door.

“Come in!” Kokichi silently groaned at how friendly his voice sounded.

Shuichi opened the door slowly, “You s-sound like you feel better.”

As he entered he saw Kokichi’s extremely red face and his eyes widened.

“Did your fever get worse?” He ran over and placed his hand on Kokichi’s forehead, “You feel really warm!”

He suddenly backed up several steps, “I’m sorry! I didn’t m-mean to invade your personal space. I was just w-worried.”

“I don’t mind it when it’s you, Shuichi.”

Great. Thanks despair disease. Wording my answer like some stupid school girl with a crush. Appreciate that.

Luckily for Kokichi, Shuichi didn’t read too much into it and just sighed in relief, “That’s good to hear,” he paused and presented an embarrassed smile, “I felt bad about yesterday, and came to apologize.”

“I wasn’t mad at you, I was irritated with the disease,” Kokichi sighed.

That wasn’t too bad. That was along the lines of what I actually wanted to say.

Shuichi smiled wider, “Oh good!” he then backtracked, “Oh not good that you were irritated! It sucks that you are dealing with the despair disease! But good that we’re… good!”

Kokichi smiled weakly as he listened to the nervous boy’s ramblings. His head pounded more intensely as ever, and before he knew it, he fell back into his pillow and fainted.

As he drifted into blackness, he heard the boy exclaim in nervous confusion. He replied to quell his fear, or at least he tried.

“You’re so cute…when you’re worried about…me.”

 ------------

Kokichi was pulled back to the land of the living when he felt a sudden cold sensation on his head.

“Ah!”

“Oh he’s awake. Splendid.”

Kokichi opened his eyes to Kirumi’s face in front of his own.

“Aww. You’re not Shuichi.” Kokichi face flared red as the words escaped his lips.

“Oh, I’m r-right here... Kokichi,” the detective pulled his hat in front of his face to hide his blush as he answered.

Kirumi seemed unfazed by the interaction, “Keep the cold washcloth on his forehead and change it every few hours. His fever has gone down a bit. Now I must go help tend to Angie. Himiko and Tenko are having a difficult time.”

Shuichi thanked her as she left.

“So it is spreading after all?” Kokichi asked, with genuine curiosity.

“Y-yeah.”

“Well you should go so that you don’t catch it,” Kokichi said matter-of-factly.

And so I don’t say anything embarrassing. Stupid, cute Shuichi. This is all his fault.

“Do you really want me to go?”

Kokichi shook his head yes while his mouth said, “No…I’d like you to stay- UGH!”

Kokichi covered his eyes with his forearm and with an exasperated sigh said, “I hate this place. You know that? I hate it so much. I just want to go home.”

Shuichi gave the small boy a caring look, “You always act like you’re enjoying the killing game. Being here. I guess it makes sense that that would be a lie.”

“Yeah. Who would ever want to play a game that you’re forced to play?” He sat up and pouted at Shuichi.

The sight made the detective grin, “Well, the good thing is that you look like you feel better than yesterday!”

Kokichi placed his hands behind his head and leaned against his headboard, “I do feel better. Still can’t lie though! Neeheehee”

It’s not as clever or eloquent as what I was going to say, but I’ll take it! As long as I don’t say anything else embarrassing about Shuichi, I should be good!

“It’s good to hear your laugh again, Kokichi,” Shuichi grinned, “Now can I do anything for you?”

Ugh his smile is so sexy. Ignore it. You’re hungry right? Ask for some soup, Kokichi.

“You can kiss me!” Kokichi exclaimed.

That is not soup! Oh my fucking God, that’s not soup at all. Fuck fuck fucking shit fuck-

Shuichi leaned over and placed his lips on the supreme leader’s own, blushing all the while. It was just a second long peck, and then the detective pulled away and quickly pulled down his hat lower than either one of them thought it could possibly go.

“W-why did you do that, Shuichi?” A bewildered Kokichi stuttered.

“…Well you did t-tell me to…” Shuichi replied.

Kokichi frowned, “That’s so not a good answer.”

“It just made m-me so happy.”

“What?” Kokichi looked up in surprise. He saw that Shuichi eyes were wide and honest.

“The d-disease. I was so thrilled that you would have to tell the truth, because I could finally figure out what you really thought of me. I like you, Kokichi. You’re…fascinating. And then when you told me to kiss you…but you probably didn’t even mean to. I’m such a selfish person. You’ve been suffering and I’ve been taking advantage of that. I just w-wanted to be around you.”

A single tear rolled down the boy’s face. Kokichi reached out and slowly removed the detective’s hat to discover a messy mop of navy hair underneath. He also finally got a full view of Shuichi’s eyes.

They’re beautiful. From under the hat they looked grey, but as the florescent light hit, they shone a strange mix of silver and gold.

Kokichi reached out and wiped away the tears flowing from those eyes. He then leaned over and kissed the shaking boy’s lips. It was gentle and warm, very unlike Kokichi’s regular demeanor.

Shuichi’s eyes widened and he kissed back. He broke it again and stammered, “B-but…”

“Shuichi. I am so happy you’re here. And I’m actually happy that I had to tell you the truth. But I’m happiest of all that you kissed me.”

I had no intention of being this honest with him. I had no intention of being honest with him in the slightest. But in this case, the truth…it wasn’t so bad.

Shuichi grinned and tackled the smaller boy.

“Ugh, I am still sick, ya know!”

The two giggled and Shuichi planted a kiss on the ultimate supreme leader.

[takonei]

Beta AU - Main story, Chapter 3, daily life (Part 2)

Note of the author: It’s motive time bois.

Chapter 3: What is beyond humans’ control - Daily life

Day 10 since the beginning of the game. 8:00 AM.

Shuichi woke up at the morning announcement. he slept better than expected, thankfully.

After taking a shower, he got dressed up to join the others in the dining hall.

Just as he left his room, he saw Angie leaving her room as well.

“Oh, hey Angie.” he yawned.

The girl span around so fast she almost tripped on her own feet. “G’morniiing!”

Shuichi chuckled. The two started making their way to the dining hall together.

“Apparently you helped Himiko and Kokichi making statues yesterday?” he decided to start a conversation.

She nodded. “Yeah! I taught them how to use chisels and hammers and woodpeckers and a lot of other tools!”

“I see,” he smiled. “That must have been fun then.”

She grinned. “Although they’re not the best at it, it was their first time!”

There was a short silence.

Shuichi didn’t know if asking her about her island was a good idea, but it was worth a shot. “Hey... I know this is probably a touchy subject for you and I won’t force you to talk but... How was it back there, sculpting?”

But when he looked at her, her eyes were empty. She had stopped in her tracks. “... I wish I could slaughter Atua with my own hands for all the shit he put all of us priestesses through. Just cutting him like Monokuma cut Maki with the scissors and watch his-”

The violinist couldn’t believe what she was saying. He wanted to put his hands on her shoulders, but refrained from doing so. “Angie! I-”

He paused. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have talked about this.”

She stared at him silently for a moment, then took a step back. “I told you, didn’t I? This is all behind me now! Now I can live with you all here in the academy!”

Shuichi didn’t know how to respond. He wanted to leave but seeing Angie like this made him feel sad. He had a family to go back to, but for those like Kirumi and Angie, this was a whole other story.

“Let’s... Just go to the dining hall. Miu and Kirumi probably already made breakfast.” he couldn’t look at Angie in the eyes. “But please consider talking to Kiyo about all of this. He can try to help you just please...”

He looked at her with pleading eyes. “Talk to someone about this.”

She looked at him with dumbfounded eyes, but then smiled. “Sure thing! But you don’t have to worry about this, Shuichi!~”

They finished their walk in silence.

When they reached the dining hall, Shuichi hoped to see breakfast ready and some of the others here to brighten up the mood.

Unfortunately, a way more confusing scene unfolded in front of his eyes.

Ryoma was in the corner of the room, curled into a ball, Rantaro desperately trying to talk to him.

“Ryoma please- Are you feeling okay??” he asked.

“S-Stay away from me! What did I even do to you?” the small man shakily replied. That was... Unusual.

Miu was a few meters away. She subtly approached the two.

“What’s going on with him?” Shuichi whispered to her.

“No one knows what’s going on. Ryoma looks afraid of everything and everyone, Tsumugi seems to have amnesia and we’ve been trying to understand the situation for twenty minutes. The two also have a huge fever from what Rantaro said.” she replied, as confused as him.

The others came in one by one, and explaining what was going on was impossible.

Rantaro was desperately trying to resonate with Ryoma, but it was useless.

Kirumi tried to talk to Tsumugi, but all she got from her was “Who are you?” and “Where are we?”

Once everyone got into the dining hall, the monokubs popped in.

“My goodness! That’s obviously bad!” Monophanie exclaimed.

The students turned to the bears.

“Teddy bears?” Tsumugi asked, confused.

“What did you do to them??” Miu yelled.

“Ahem! It looks like you want some explanations...” Monotaro said.

“Yeah no shit.” Kaito glared at him.

“MEET-YOUR-NEW-MOTIVE. THE-DESPAIR-DISEASE.” Monodam explained.

That didn’t seem to answer a lot of questions.

“We... May or may not have let some tiny insects inside the academy and it looks like they find you all appetizing!” The pink bear rubbed the back of her head.

Rantaro sighed. “Quit your bullshit. This is obviously your doing. No existing disease infects people that differently.” he glanced at Tsumugi, quietly sitting on a chair and Ryoma, curled up in a ball in the corner of the room.

“How dare you assume we’re lying! Bears never lie!” the red one raised his metal paws up in the air. “Anyway. It’s a really annoying disease where you get a high fever, along with various symptoms!”

Monodam pointed at the two sick students. “TSUMUGI-HAS-THE-AMNESIC-DISEASE. RYOMA-HAS-THE-COWARD-DISEASE.”

Kiyo put a finger on his chin. ”So basically the opposite of their normal personalities.”

“But be careful! Sometimes the despair disease can get passed from person to person just like a cold!” Monophanie put her paws on her cheeks.

Rantaro’s eyes widened. “And it had to be contagious of course.” He approached the bear. “And what’s the cure?”

“THIS-DISEASE-DOESN’T-NEED-A-CURE. IT-WILL-HELP-EVERYONE-GET-ALONG.”

“That’s right! It’s in the most difficult situations that you guys help each other. We thought that would help you all!”

Everyone fell silent. The absurdity of the statement was way too much.

The cubs, noticing the sudden tension in the room, chanted their catchphrase and left.

Shuichi glanced at Rantaro. He looked beyond mad. He took a deep breath and clapped his hands once.

“We’re gonna have to isolate them for now. Except we don’t have a comfortable separated facility for them.”

Shuichi pondered. “So we’ll have to keep them in their own rooms...”

“This is going to be a nightmare to take care of them. I have stuff in my lab but if I have to walk from my lab to the dormitories each time they need something I’m not going to keep up for long.”

Kirumi was leaning against the wall, her arms crossed. “I know this isn’t the best place, but what about the three rooms on the fourth floor? We’ll have to transport stuff here but at least it’s closer.”

“That’s probably the best we can do for now.” He lifted his head to look at everyone else. “I’ll stay here to keep an eye on them for now. Please try to make two of those rooms as comfortable as possible for them. There are three beds in my lab. I’m counting on you for this.”

“W-wait...”

Kokichi raised his hand. “I d-don’t really know... M-Maybe I’m wrong but... I feel like I have it t-too...”

Himiko jumped. “Huh? Really?”

He nodded. “I... I feel dizzy a-and my head is spinning... But I don’t feel any mental change s-so I’m not sure.”

Rantaro approached him and put the palm of his hand on the small boy’s forehead. “You’re feverish. We shouldn’t take any risks.

He pondered for a moment. “Does anyone else feel sick, aside from Kokichi, Tsumugi and Ryoma?”

No answer. “Good. You guys prepare the three rooms while I keep an eye on those three.”

Shuichi turned to him. “Hold on, you're volunteering to take care of them until they get better? You think you can take the risk being infected?”

He turned to the violinist. “I’ve seen worse. I’m the ultimate medic, so don’t worry about me, alright?”

The two stared at each other. Shuichi nodded. “Thanks a lot, Rantaro.”

The rest of the students spent the rest of the morning transporting the beds from the medic’s lab to the rooms. They also took furniture and items from various rooms and labs to make the room a bit more comfortable and less creepy than before.

Lamps and books from Tsumugi’s lab, chairs from Kirumi’s lab, and some decoration and items from the other labs and the warehouse.

At least those rooms looked more like bedrooms than occult-ish rooms. Of course there wasn’t the usual comfort of the dorms, but it was better than nothing.

Shuichi let Rantaro guide the patients to their rooms. They were surprisingly cooperative.

Tsumugi, Ryoma and Kokichi... He really hoped those three would get better.

Shuichi went to Rantaro’s lab. It pained him a little to learn that he was going to do everything by himself from now on.

When he stepped in the room, he was wearing a mask and plastic gloves, carefully handling medicine, beaker and eyedropper in hand.

Once he saw the violinist entering the lab, he put down his tools to look at him. “Do you need something? It’s probably best if you don’t approach me too much, just in case.”

Shuichi winced. “I mean... We can’t let you do everything by yourself... Can we at least do something for you?”

“Shuichi’s right! I can’t just stay here and let you do all the work!” a feminine voice came from behind.

Miu had just appeared in the lab. But while Shuichi was calmly asking how he could help, the girl was clearly determined to do so.

“I... Want to help the others in this. I want to apologize for everything I did after the motive videos... Even though it’s just a little, I want to be useful.” She bowed to Rantaro.

Unfortunately his expression was almost unreadable because of his mask, but Shuichi could clearly see the surprise in his eyes.

Rantaro stood up. “Like I said it’s better if only one of us takes care of the patients, and I’m the most qualified for this. But...”

He paused.

“If it’s not too much to ask, could you please make individual meals for the ill ones and me? And perhaps bring me a sleeping bag since I’ll probably stay here for a while.”

Shuichi put a finger on his chin. “And you’ll probably need some clean clothes too...”

Miu quickly stood up, pointing two fingers to her temple. “Leave it to me!”

Rantaro smiled behind his mask. “However could you bring me dish soap with it? It would be bad to give you back contaminated empty dishes.”

Miu smiled. “Got it!” she turned her back to him, and added: “Make sure to take care of yourself, alright sweetie?”

The medic chuckled. “Alright, alright. Take care of yourself as well, okay?”

The street artist smiled and left. There was a visible blush on her face.

He turned back to Rantaro and giggled. “She really seems into you, calling you ‘sweetie’ like this...”

He shrugged. “I’m not really used to affection like that, but it feels nice. Although I don’t see her ‘that’ way.”

Oh.

“I’ll go for now. Just like she said, don’t overwork yourself, okay?” Shuichi said.

Rantaro gave him a thumbs up. “Don’t worry about me. We should be alright for now.”

-

The group spent lunch together, but there were four less people than what was supposed to be. Obviously Himiko looked worried for Kokichi, but Angie was keeping her company, so it was fine.

Afternoon came and with four less people around, the academy felt empty. But at least they were in good hands.

Himiko and Angie were once again sculpting items in the latter’s lab.

Kaito and Keebo were in the warehouse. The biker had tried to replace Tsumugi and Ryoma for his maintenance.

Miu and Kirumi were cooking in the kitchen some meals and snacks for the infected ones and Rantaro.

Kiyo was outside, not doing anything in particular, so Shuichi approached him.

“Oh, hello Shuichi. Do you need anything?” he asked.

He shook his head. “Not really. Just thought we could hang out.”

The two sat under the wisterias of the courtyard. They had a relaxing feeling, and Shuichi often saw Kiyo talking to people under here.

The violinist picked a flower and started fiddling with it. “What do you think about all of this? I’ve never heard what you thought about this situation.”

Kiyo looked at him. “About what exactly?”

“I would guess the disease... Rantaro said he didn’t believe the bears and said they were lying about the origin of the disease.”

The therapist pondered for a moment, staring at the void.

“... I don’t really know. To be honest I’m contemplating the possibility of the mastermind being one of the ill ones.”

Shuichi’s eyes widened. “Huh? You think the mastermind is either Ryoma, Tsumugi or Kokichi?”

“I didn’t say that I was sure, just that we should not exclude the possibility.”

The violinist frowned. “I’m not sure what you mean...”

“Let’s say the mastermind is the one who gave the ‘disease’ to us. We would obviously think they wouldn’t give the disease to themselves. So they could have just given themselves a fever and act like have the disease.”

Shuichi put his elbows on his knees, head resting on his hands. “But can we even be sure there is a mastermind among us? Maki’s execution still went on even though Monokuma was destroyed, and he came back right after...”

“I don’t really know about this part. We thought that the mastermind would go to the hidden room to summon another Monokuma, but Maki’s execution proved us that it wasn’t the case.”

Shuichi tried to think. “Maybe... They had a remote on them?”

Kiyo narrowed his eye. “That’s a possibility. But... Monokuma wants us to feel despair, right?”

Shuichi raised an eyebrow. “What do you mean?”

“Because Monokuma reappeared the next day the first time he was crushed, we assumed someone had to go in the hidden room to manually create another one, and they needed to wait until everyone was asleep to act.”

He nodded.

“But if Monokuma’s objective is to destroy our hopes, the mastermind probably let us hope he was definitely destroyed, then created another one to intensify the psychological effect. They could have been able to do it since the very beginning. However, since Maki’s execution was an emergency, they didn’t have time to think and immediately created another one.”

Shuichi lowered his head. “That’s messed up... But that doesn’t explain how they do so...”

“I’m not sure. The remote seems like a plausible theory. We were all in a panic when the courtroom was falling appart, so they could have done something without us realizing.”

That... Made sense.

“But if they can create another Monokuma whenever they want, doesn’t that mean there is a possibility they’re not among us and simply hiding in the hidden room?”

Kiyo hummed. “It’s possible, however since there is still a chance they’re in this group, I wouldn’t talk too quickly.”

Shuichi nodded.

“But to come back to what you said about the despair disease, what would the mastermind gain by giving themselves the disease?” he asked.

“To make us think they’re not one of them, at the risk of not being able to do anything since Rantaro keeps an eye on them at all times. But that would be quite the gamble.” Kiyo explained.

That was quite unlikely, Shuichi thought, but not impossible.

“And Rantaro... I can’t say for certain. He has a great influence on the others but I know a genuine speech when I see one. That’s what last trial proved me.” he added.

Shuichi remembered Kirumi’s words the day before.

‘Willing to listen’ and ‘trusting’ are two very different things. That’s what differentiates strategists and friends.

Rantaro... He was a strategist. He gave the key to his lab to Ryoma in case someone tried to get it from him. He knew another killing would happen and did his best to keep the group calm and rational. Even going as far as to expose the truth about the lack of benefits he would get by escaping. He also volunteered to take care of the ill students all by himself. It was clear he wanted to have a good influence on the group. To be in control of the situation, in a good way.

But him being the mastermind wasn’t something Shuichi wanted to think about.

A part of him also hoped Kiyo wasn’t the mastermind and said all those theories on purpose to confuse him.

The discussion felt tiring.

The two decided to drop the subject for now to talk about their respective lives.

-

Evening came. The rest of the group joined in the dining hall but Shuichi still felt like someone was missing.

There were 12 students alive in the academy. 3 of them were resting because of the illness and one was taking care of them. Yet only half of the remaining students were in the dining hall.

After a quick glance, Shuichi noticed both Miu and Himiko were absent.

Right after thinking that, the street artist entered the dining hall, alone.

“Where’s Himiko?” he asked as she sat in front of Kaito.

“She’s in front of Kokichi’s room and they talk through the door. She’s been at it for an hour now and I don’t think she’ll leave soon.” Miu explained.

Kaito raised an eyebrow as he was eating. “Rantaro doesn’t mind?”

She shook her head. “He said as long as Himiko doesn’t enter the room it’s fine. Also that she must be out of the way during his checks.”

She took a sip of water from her glass. “So right now they’re eating dinner separated by a door.”

Shuichi nodded. Rantaro probably knows more about him about what they should do.

After finishing dinner, since there wasn’t much to do, everyone parted their ways. However there was one last thing Shuichi needed to do.

He quickly looked at his monopad to see where the therapist was. He was outside, on a bench near the wisterias, as usual.

It didn’t take long for Shuichi to reach him.

“Hey, Kiyo?”

He turned to him. He seemed to have been lost in his own thoughts. “Do you need anything?”

He winced. This was a touchy subject, but he had to.

“I think you should try to talk to Angie... I’m a bit concerned about her.”

He explained the whole situation. What she told him in her lab and their discussion this morning.

Kiyo hummed.

“I see. If as you say she resents her home more than this entire killing game, then there is a high possibility she went through severe trauma.”

He stood up. “Thank you for telling me. I’ll talk to her tomorrow, since it is getting late.”

The two went back to the dormitories, hoping Rantaro would be fine by himself.

The disease didn’t need to make any more victims and suffering.

They could only hope for the best.

[mythgirlimagines]

Anon asked: korekiyo bleeding through the bandages?

Sure thing! Yall, don’t forget, I only have three more to fill after this so please send in more prompts! I’m going until this entire card is full!

Fandom: Danganronpa

Characters: Korekiyo Shinguji

He shouldn’t have aggravated his wounds so much. They weren’t healed, far from it, and he knew that well with each time they burned when he moved. It was a little thing, nothing that would stop him from going about his day, at least until now.

They itched, even though they were bleeding. The cuts weren’t deep, exactly, not by his measurements. Those darned thorns had cut up his arms more than he’d expected, even though the already-present bandages hiding old wounds. Kirumi had done a good job at bandaging them at first, and he expected that to hold until much later.

He had extra bandages in his room, naturally. He didn’t want to alarm his classmates with the scars littering his arms, ones they really shouldn’t be worried about. Traveling sometimes meant being scratched up by the trees and bushes in the area, nothing he couldn’t handle. Falling directly into a rose bush with more thorns than a normal one was not part of his day’s plan, but that was what had happened.

There was a lot of blood, more than he thought there would be. However, he tried not to be worried; they were just scratches. They would heal soon enough. He was sure of it.

They stung as he held his arms under the sink in his bathroom, a dull throbbing that he was expectant of. Still, the bleeding didn’t stop like it should’ve. That was most troubling. He sincerely hoped that it would stop once he applied pressure.

The roll of bandages he kept dwindled with each layer he had to wrap. The cuts appeared to be fine at first before the blood seeped through, dampening the bandages. After three layers were soaked through, he cut the bandages and started again. No use in leaving on already dirtied bandages. As he unfortunately knew from experience, that could lead to infection.

By the time the bleeding stopped, he was nearly out of bandages. He made a mental note to get more the next time he was out as he gathered the used ones up. They looked like they were used to help a surgical wound stop bleeding; that was how bad and how widespread the cuts were bleeding.

He disposed of them easily, tamping them down so they weren’t as visible to anyone who might come into his room. There was no need to alarm anyone, and he saw no need to tell Kirumi or anyone else of this. This...wasn’t much to worry about. Nothing was wrong, not now that he had it under control. He just knew that he had to be a bit easier on his wounds for the next day or so to avoid a repeat. That was all.