#sorry Momota-kun . . .

[funishment-time]

🔵 Kodaka BlueSky Q&As: Male DR Characters (Specific) Part 2

(See part one, most of 2024, here.)

⚠️ DISCLAIMER: Please be advised! Translations of all Japanese answers derive from a combination of Google Translate and my manager's three-quarters-remembered Japanese. We've tried our best to work out what he's saying, but there will be mistakes here and there. Do not take this as gospel!

To avoid spreading (too much) misinfo, where we're completely boggled about an answer, we've decided not to even make an attempt. We'll still list the post, but mark it accordingly.

➡️ AN IMPORTANT NOTE FROM KODAKA BEFORE READING:

First of all, the questions answered here are not official. Everything that is official is what is said within the work. In contrast, this is simply what Kodaka, the creator, thinks, and it is not the correct answer. Use this as a starting point to enjoy the depth of each character, or to say, "That's not right!" and enjoy it with your own interpretation. I think of this as a way of communicating with the characters who live in fiction. This is important, so please spread the word.

🦃 NOV 2024:

Q: Excuse me for asking a question. How smart is Soda-kun in his grade or class? If possible, I'd like to know his best and worst subjects.

A: He is good at math and physics, but is terrible at Japanese, history, and English.

/////

Q: Excuse me for asking a question! What would Kazuichi Souda's punishment be like? I love the punishment elements in Danganronpa so I'm always looking forward to the answer T.T🙏🏻‎

A: A punishment that is done behind the scenes without anyone seeing it, not even the player can see it

/////

Q: How do you think Ouma-kun will react if you give him some pig's feet?

A: In return, a pig's head is secretly planted in your room.

/////

Q: Why is there no depiction of Matsuda working on Kamukura in anime 3?

A: Room for imagination

/////

Q: I wonder what it would be like if Komaeda were to be punished🧏🏻‍♀️✨

A: The player's game console and PC are destroyed.

/////

Q: How did Amami-kun perform academically at school? 

A: “I think my grades are very good.”

/////

Q: Did Kamukura predict what would happen to him in the end? 

A: “I made predictions and then moved on to something more unpredictable.”

/////

Q: Momota is treated as a pretty stupid character, but does passing the astronaut exam mean that he’s good at studying? I'd also like to know how his grades were at school.

A: Actually, good grades

🎄 DEC 2024:

Q: What are Hinata's parents like? Did he grow up in a normal family?

A: They are so normal that they don't even realize they are normal.

/////

Q: Is Korekiyo Shinguji based off Woo-Jin from Oldboy? In the art book for Danganronpa V3, I remember you wrote that Shinguji was inspired by a Korean film or other Korean media. And I remember the plot twist of Oldboy was the reveal that Woo-Jin had an incestuous attachment to his sister.

A: It's hard to explain in English, but it's based on a music band or culture that was popular in Japan in the 90's.

/////

Q: Sorry if this has already been mentioned...! Ki-Bo can't cry, so why does he sweat (and have a runny nose?)? I was curious as to what purpose this function was added, and why they couldn't add a crying function.

A: Windshield wipers.

/////

Q: Do you have good grades, Ouma-kun? If you're attending classes normally, do you sleep in or something?

A:" I'm sleeping but my grades are good."

/////

Q: Please tell us about Yasuke Matsuda's profile. :3

A: This will cause a fuss so I'm keeping it a secret

NOTE: That is to say, Matsuda's general bio/backstory. I wonder why Kodaka's dodging the question...or if he's just being playful?

/////

Q: Is Kuwata good at sports other than baseball? Or is he not so good at anything other than baseball?

A: “I don't know the rules.”

/////

Q: I have a question. Does Tanaka-kun's pets include fish?

A: It depends on the situation in the demon world at the time.

/////

Q: Who do you think would be a good boyfriend in Danganronpa? 😆

A: Wouldn’t it be Ki-Bo? It's worth the effort to keep updating his version.

[asudai-tls]

[Archive Video] LMLMM×××♡ Let's chat with Momorin♡ (with interruptions)

Video

Momota: From morning to night, the lovely, sweet Momorin is with you ♡ Everyone! What are you up to~? Mm~ I was checking out the new snacks released this month. 

Momota: Ah, oh yeah, I’m sooo sorry. I remember saying we were going to talk about units today. Then, here’s the unit version of the greeting. One more time! Ahem… Love me, love my music. It’s your favorite LMLMM×××♡! Chu♡ Momota: Hehe, was that good? I like this opening too~ I put my love into LMLMM×××♡ ‘s unit name. It’s the acronym for “Love me, love my music” and then the usual kisses♡ This way, every time you say the unit name, you can convey your love to me, right?

Momota: Also, I thought about a fan name, but…

Yamato: Oi, Momota-san. Why did you start streaming !? Toa: Ah, Momo-kun, found you~♪

Momota: Urk– Yamato: I haven't seen you since this morning and I find you streaming by yourself !? Seriously, that's it!

Momota: Ah~  you’re so noisy, Yamato. Don't come in during the stream! Yamato: I told you we’d do the unit stream together!

Momota: You never said that. Yamato: I did! Momota: Everyone, I’m sorry~ In LMLMM×××♡ there are people who claim to be unit members. It seems there was some kind of misunderstanding. I’ll kick them out right away~ Yamato: Don’t kick us out!

Toa: Ah, are you streaming this? Aha, there are replies in the comments. How interesting. Hello, I’m Toa. Momo-kun calls me Toachi~

Momota: Hey, Toachi! Were you talking to them in the middle of our argument? Jeez… Toa: Hehe. Sorry, sorry. Yamato-kun, you also introduce yourself. Yamato: Eh. Me? I’m Yamato… Actually, it’s… YamaYama.

Momota: Eh? What was that? I couldn’t hear you. I took the trouble to give you that name, do you not like it?

Yamato: I’m YamaYama! Thanks for tuning in. 

Momota: And? Who am I? Yamato: Huh? Toa: Haii! You’re Momorin!

Momota: Yes, well done♡ And? Yamayama says? Yamato: Ugh. Momorin Momorin. 

Momota: The way you address me is not cute enough!

Yamato: Don't expect cuteness from me.

Toa: Woa! There are a lot of comments coming. Thank you. Right, right, the more those two fight the closer they seem. Everyone gets it. 

Momota: Hey-! Seriously, what are you doing on someone else's stream?

Yamato: What do you mean “someone else’s stream”? Today is the unit broadcast! I adjusted my schedule in advance only to have a meeting that was over in five minutes!

Momota: At that point, you have to take the hint that I have no intention of linking up with you. You can’t read the room at all, YamaYama~ Poor thing ~

Yamato: Huh?! I know that! Toa: The two of them have been like this since the start. So, everyone, what were you talking about with Momorin? Mm, I see. You were talking about LMLMM×××♡’s name. We said “It sounds fun so why don't we do a unit together”. So we banded together for now. But there’s been no activity recently. Hm? Whether we’re active or not, both are fine by me. If you tell me to do something, I'll do it. Momorin doesn't seem to be that keen on it though.

Momota: That’s why I told you not to interrupt me when I'm streaming. Just nod your head to whatever I say.  When I say black, it's black. When I say white, it's white.

Yamato: Momota-san, saying that will just cause more ruckus! I told you to stop making such inflammatory comments.

Momota: It’s fine, it’s fine. Anything I say becomes cute ♡

Toa: Haha. The cuteness is contained in the voice~ Well, Momorin isn’t being serious so forgive him, okay? Mhm, all the fans understand.

Momota: So, what is the look you’re serving? It looks like lame loungewear.

Yamato: Hey, stop suddenly dissing my outfit…!

Momota: If we take a look at your current way of dressing yourself, even being seen on the same screen as me is shocking.

Yamato: You’re going that far?!

Toa: It’s okay, it’s okay. They’re just playing. But, if that playfulness continues I’m going to be left out. You all will listen to me, right? Because I’m lonely. Please?

Momota: Hey Toachi! What are you saying to my fans?! Yamato: Wow… When Toa-san starts talking he can seduce just about anyone right away.

Toa: Ah, busted~ Yamato: Haa, OK. Let’s end today’s stream for now. Sorry everyone! We’ll definitely have a unit stream tomorrow! Momota: Hey, don't just decide these things on your own. Toa: I got a lot of feedback from the stream. This was pretty fun, wasn’t it? Love you lots, everybody ~♡ Momota: Soooo sorry for the super noisy broadcast~ I’ll see you all again soon! What’s that? You want a kiss at the end? Guess it can’t be helped ~ Chu♡

Yamato: Woah. That got an amazing response. That’s Momota-san for you. He’s popular. Momota: If you get it now, then stop getting in my way! Toa: I’ll miss you all but that’s it for today. So then, everyone, see you next time. Okay, Momorin and YamaYama– Momota: Didn’t you know I have a different stream scheduled for tomorrow. I told you,  didn’t I!? Yamato: I didn’t  know! There's no point in talking if we don't start over!

Toa: Ahaha. Looks like they didn’t hear me~ Bye then~

[ask-cosmic-kaito]

Hello, Ouma-kun! i was wondering if you had any pets? i sent the same ask to Momota-kun but i wanted your input as well!

Sincerely, @lucky-nagito

Nagito, was it? Sorry to disappoint, but I'm not Kokichi. Hahah! He's @supremeleader-ouma.

However, I'll still answer your question.

We have our little girl, Andromeda. She's a cat. A beautiful and scruffy little thing. She reminded me of Kokichi a lot. He, in his own right, is a scruffy little thing.

I just found her one day and took her home. You'd think I'm the one who named her, but it was actually Kokichi who named her after Andromeda galaxy.

We love her. <3 Thanks for the ask, man.

Have a good day.

[toxicpineapple]

‘ go on, cry. ’ for kaigonta if you feel so inclined? :,]

Gonta finds Kaito on the roof. They’re technically not allowed to be up here—evident by the lock on the door, which is broken—but while there’s a part of Gonta that will always want to be a rule-following gentleman, that part of him is overwhelmed by the rest of him, which is far too concerned about Kaito to stay inside.

It’s chilly when Gonta steps out. He hugs his sweatshirt tighter around his body and stares across the roof at Kaito, who doesn’t appear to have noticed him yet; Kaito is seated at the edge of the roof, legs dangling over the edge, his head tipped back slightly. It’s obvious what he’s looking at. The Team Danganronpa Rehabilitation Facility is all the way out in the countryside, a secluded location near the mountains with so little light pollution they can actually see the stars.

They’d been clearer at the Ultimate Academy, but they’d also been incorrect, there. Gonta chances them a glance himself before he pads over to Kaito, trying to lighten his footfalls. He wants Kaito to hear him, but he’s so weary of taking up space nowadays. At least in that regard, Gonta thinks Kaito can relate.

“Is Momota-kun alright?”

Kaito doesn’t startle at the sound of his voice. He doesn’t even move, forearms draped loosely over the railing he’s tucked over. He isn’t wearing a jacket, just a tank top and sweats. Gonta can see goosebumps dotting Kaito’s tanned skin, but he isn’t shivering.

“Hey, big guy,” Kaito murmurs, in lieu of an answer to his question. His eyes are deep in the dim lighting, almost taking on an azure tone, but Gonta can still see the purple underneath. “I didn’t worry you, did I?”

Gonta considers lying, but decides Kaito probably wouldn’t think much of it if he did. “A little bit, but Gonta is fine.” He steps out of his slippers and walks over to the edge of the roof beside Kaito. It takes some manoeuvring, but he manages to sit, hugging one knee against his chest while his other foot hangs off the side. It swings next to Kaito’s. “Gonta is wondering more about Momota-kun.”

Kaito’s response is a noncommittal hum. He hooks his chin over the railing and closes his eyes. His lashes are sparkling with unshed tears, and Gonta finds himself looking away. He’s not so sure that Kaito wants him to see.

“Sometimes I miss them, you know?” Kaito’s voice is a bit choked up. “The stars. It’s stupid, right?”

Gonta’s instinct is to say that no, it’s not stupid to miss one’s passion—but that isn’t what Kaito means, he doesn’t think. Gonta didn’t watch the rest of the killing game (couldn’t, hearing about everything Kokichi did) but he knows Kaito died up there, in space. Executed by the very thing he nurtured, just as Gonta was.

A part of Gonta wants to reach out and comfort Kaito, but his hands always feel so clumsy nowadays he’s not completely sure he wouldn’t just make things worse.

“Gonta doesn’t think so,” Gonta says nonetheless. “Not stupid.”

Kaito’s lip twitches at the edge. “Yeah. I guess not.” His eyes fall back open, having taken on a glossy sheen. “Just feels like they wouldn’t judge me. For any of it, for being weak, for being a killer—” Kaito’s voice catches. His shoulders curl in, like he’d like to hide from the world. From Gonta.

Automatically, Gonta looks away. Then he looks back. Maybe Kaito shouldn’t be hiding.

“I won’t judge you either,” Gonta says. Kaito’s eyes flit back in his direction. “For… um, either of those things. Gonta is a killer too. And weak sometimes.”

“You’re not—”

“Everyone is,” Gonta continues, then winces. “Sorry for interrupting. But Gonta just thinks that everyone is. And it’s fine.” He tugs at the drawstring on his sweatshirt. “All of it is fine. If Momota-kun wants to cry, that’s fine too.”

Kaito swallows audibly. His lower lip trembles. Gonta has learned to look for that when he’s unsure if someone will cry or not. Uncertain, but more than anything not wanting Kaito to feel like he has to endure this alone, Gonta reaches out with his index finger. Runs it under Kaito’s waterline, catching tears on his knuckle.

“Go on,” Gonta adds, softer. “Cry.”

Kaito’s face crumples. He hangs his head, and Gonta doesn’t move from his place, doesn’t dare close the distance between them… but he leaves his hand where it is. Eventually, Kaito grasps it in both of his own, tugging it closer, and Gonta cups his cheek. Kaito radiates warmth even in the cold. Or maybe that’s just the tears slipping down his cheeks.

[ao3feed-danganronpa]

I Couldn't Help Myself

read it on the AO3 at https://ift.tt/sHDdAmk

by DespairNagito

Someone stood behind Shuichi and placed hands over his eyes, so he could see nothing but darkness. He could feel something metallic touching his cheeks, so it was obvious.

“Who's there? Who's there?” “Amami-kun, I'm not a kid…” “I'm sorry, I couldn't help myself.”

Words: 1106, Chapters: 1/1, Language: English

Fandoms: New Dangan Ronpa V3: Everyone's New Semester of Killing, Dangan Ronpa Series

Rating: Mature

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Categories: M/M, Multi

Characters: Saihara Shuichi, Amami Rantaro, Oma Kokichi, Momota Kaito

Relationships: Amami Rantaro/Oma Kokichi/Saihara Shuichi, Amami Rantaro & Momota Kaito & Oma Kokichi & Saihara Shuichi, Amami Rantaro/Saihara Shuichi, Oma Kokichi/Saihara Shuichi

Additional Tags: Post-New Dangan Ronpa V3, Polyamorous Saihara Shuichi

read it on the AO3 at https://ift.tt/sHDdAmk

[flowersnfireworks]

unwanted empathy

Little gift for @spittyfishy, based off her V3 Remnant AU! You guys should all go check it out :)

-

Read on Ao3 at https://archiveofourown.org/works/43444395

Relationships: Iruma Miu/K1-B0, Harukawa Maki/Momota Kaito, Akamatsu Kaede & Harukawa Maki & Momota Kaito & Ouma Kokichi & Saihara Shuichi

Characters: K1-B0, Iruma Miu, Ouma Kokichi, Saihara Shuichi, Momota Kaito, Harukawa Maki, Akamatsu Kaede, New Dangan Ronpa V3 Ensemble, the others are just mentioned

Additional tags: Remnants of Despair (Dangan Ronpa), Despair Era (Dangan Ronpa), Alternate Universe - Canon Divergence, Mental Instability, Mental Breakdown, Guilt, Minor Character Death, not detailed though, Canon-Typical Violence

Language: English

-

“Are you done yet?” Ouma whines childishly, swinging his legs back and forth from where he’s sitting.

“Quit your whining, I’ve almost got it,” Miu grumbles. She pulls at a wire on the back of Kiibo’s neck plate before abruptly changing her mind and grabbing a screwdriver instead to loosen something.

“But Iruma-chan is going sooooo slow!” Ouma complains. Miu flips him off, an action which Ouma returns in kind.

Kiibo beams. He’s so happy that his friends are getting along with each other!

“I still don’t get the point of this,” Saihara interjects. “Right now, Kiibo-kun does everything we say, why undo that?”

Ouma sighs dramatically. “Kiiboy’s so boring now! The emotion blockers Iruma-chan put in keep him from being interesting!” He smirks. “So this is just for fun!”

Momota snorts. “Of course you would think this is fun.”

“Well, I’m sorry you have a terrible sense of humor,” Ouma snarks back.

“Everyone, shut up, I’ve almost got it,” Miu orders, having returned to adjusting the wires at Kiibo’s neck.

“I believe in you, Miu!” Akamatsu cheers from her position draped across Harukawa, who bears it with an expression of complete stoicism.

“I don’t!” Ouma chimes in cheerfully, prompting an indignant “Oi!” from Miu.

“One last touch…” Miu mutters. There’s a slight jolt as she clicks something into place, then a larger one as she yanks a wire out. “Got it!”

There’s nothing for a second, before something clicks.

Images pour into Kiibo’s mind immediately in a dizzying whirl. Momota and Saihara laughing as they burn a building to the ground. Shirogane infiltrating the Future Foundation, sabotaging their efforts from the inside. 

What…

Harukawa fully embracing her assassin side, killing people mercilessly left, right and centre. Chabashira becoming so infatuated with Enoshima that she starts to push everyone away, completely blind to the monster Enoshima really is. Yonaga spreading her new ‘religion’, desecrating locations worldwide and bringing despair everywhere she goes. 

Why didn’t I stop this?...

Akamatsu weaving beautiful, horrifying pieces of music, plunging anyone who hears it into mind-numbing despair and smiling. Gonta, the gentle giant, abandoning all his values and dreams of being a gentleman, descending into being completely feral. Shinguji sobbing as his beloved artefacts are mercilessly destroyed, despite his attempts to save them.

No…

Ouma brutally slaughtering DICE, his closest friends as tears run down his face and he laughs in ecstasy. Miu herself, constructing machines that bring destruction to the world, the complete opposite of her goals. Tojo, snapping under the constant pressure and deciding to take control of everyone in order to fulfil people’s wishes.

Stop it…

Everyone else. Yumeno, Hoshi, Amami Kamukura- and Kiibo. Standing and watching as the world burns. As his friends carry out these atrocious acts. Smiling. Encouraging them. Doing nothing to stop them.

Stop it!

“Stop it!” he screams, completely overwhelmed by the rush of emotions. “Stop it stop it stop it…” he dies off to a whimper, clutching his head in pain.

“So, Kiiboy! How’re you feeling?~” Ouma sing-songs. When Kiibo looks back at him, he’s grinning madly, eyes alight with something psychotic. 

(He can only think of how Ouma screamed and wailed and sobbed as he killed DICE, his friends, his family in all but blood, yet had kept on at it, smiling through his tears. How broken he had looked afterwards, blood staining his clothes and dripping down his body.)

The feeling gets worse as he looks at the rest of them, flowing through his insides like poison. Of how broken all of them look, hollow shells filled with despair, eyes swirling but empty at the same time-

Kiibo whirls to face Miu, holding onto her desperately as he begs, “Put it back! Please, Miu, just- whatever it was, put it back please!”

He squeezes his eyes shut, unable to bear the sight of all his friends with their red, swirling eyes. He thinks he hears Ouma, Saihara and…Momota, maybe? All laughing as they watch his breakdown. 

“Please…It’s too much- I…I can’t-” he manages to gasp out. His circuitry is going haywire with the sheer amount of emotions pouring into him, not meant to withstand this many. And maybe it’s selfish, to want to get rid of these feelings, when he should be trying to stop them - his friends - from doing all these awful deeds.

A small part of his brain is screaming at him to activate his rocket boosters and fly away, find the Future Foundation and help them to fight against the Remnants. 

But Kiibo was designed to mimic human traits as closely as possible, and thus he is flawed and imperfect and selfish, and he just wants these feelings to go away-

“Aw, not so easy with a conscience, is it?” Miu coos, wrapping her arms around him. “Don’t worry, baby, I’ll fix you up again in a sec.”

“Little baby Kiiboy can’t handle all these emotions?~” Ouma giggles, leaning into his space. “Can’t handle knowing that you were the cause of so much destruction?”

“S-Stay away from me!” 

From behind, Akamatsu pouts. “That’s not very nice, Kiibo-kun. Aren’t we friends?”

“Yeah! We’re all on the same team!” Momota chimes in, slinging an arm around Harukawa, who leans into his touch. The assassin doesn’t add on, but her eyes lock on to Kiibo’s, sending a chill up his spine. 

“Working towards the same goals, right?” Ouma moves back slightly, letting Saihara approach from the other side.

“You’ve got as much blood on your hands as we do!” Saihara chirps, his normally kind eyes containing nothing but cruel amusement.

“N-No, I-” Kiibo glances down at his hands in distress.

(The worst part is, they’re not lying. Blood drips through his fingers, staining his metal red. Waterfalls of it pool at his feet, thick and cloying. When he closes his eyes, it’s all he can see.

Everywhere.)

“Don’t be so modest, baby, we both know how good you are with your hands~” Miu purrs, grabbing his face gently in her hands.

“Please,” he whispers. “Please just put it back.”

Miu sighs loudly. “And after all the time I spent taking it out. Fine, only for you, baby.”

As she guides him away, Kiibo hears Ouma giggle, “Well, he hates us and himself now! I’d consider that a win.”

“Yeah, that was fun,” Saihara agrees.

“Kaito, if we don’t get out of here in the next one minute, I’m going to slaughter that rat.”

“Gotcha, babe!”

-

Go follow @spittyfishy!!!!

[reddowind]

I want to make a request.

Kaima literally being kind and friendly and calm and all to literally everyone. (Including parents, classmate etc) Until they becoming eventually scared from it.

Sorry i just like Kaima sm 😅

Hi! Thank you for liking Kaima even he's feared by his surroundings (including his siblings and best friends, if he gets angry). Honestly as the author i feel like i still have to rewrite his character because im not satisfied yet (Including the other characters too).

Okay, enough. I have an idea where he's acting kind and friendly to his best friends and siblings. So here we go!

Also sorry for late reply, I've been busy lately. Please understand that I have many things to do in real life than in social media 😅🙏

Even If it's Just Once

This story takes place 2 years ago, when the oldest Saimatsu child, Ayame still alive and well

Today at The Momota Household, The Boys doing their usual (ruthless) training along with Keiji and Mako. Somehow Ayame also joined them. Well, more like watching and cheering for them especially for her little brother as spending her time off from her carrier.

Yeah, it's break time finally. Although it's only 10 minutes, but during those break time.. Ayame and Kaima were sitting next to each other. The two close friends discussed about something…

"You really enjoying this, Ayame nee-san.. Is it really fun to watched us training?" Kaima asked as he sat down next to Ayame.

"Yeah, it's been awhile since the last time I watched you guys! Watching something you like always managed to release your stress, don't you think so, Kaima-kun?" Ayame replied with her usual friendly smile.

"Well, you're not wrong"

"Btw, Kaima-kun…" Ayame's expression changed from happy to thinking as she said that "I've been thinking about this.. for a long time"

"….Eh?"

Ayame's face grew closer to Kaima's, making him blushed a bit "You know? I think you actually can make friendly face, like your brother and father always do"

"Huh? Why did you say that…?"

Ayame stared Kaima's eyes deeply, observing every inch of his eyes "Because.. despite of your look, you're really a kind guy and can be friendly if you want to.. Somehow I knew it, your eyes radiate a good heart" as she finished her words, The young musician's smile returned and she moved her face away from Kaima and then returning her composure.

After Ayame's action earlier the in-training soldier turned his face away from her… A bit 

"..The book cover and its contents are not necessarily the same, so that's kinda irrelevant right?"

"Hm, I agree but.. After this break ended, why don't you trying to be expressive to them? Even if it's just once?"

--Hearing that statements, Kaima turned back his face to Ayame. With surprised expression

"Huh why?"

"I'm not telling you to be always expressive, but just once. Try it, try something that you never tried before. If you wanted to continue it or not.. it's up to you. The important thing is just try it first. It's such a waste if you don't try something different while your life it's just only once, right? 😊"

=====

============

Then…

"Shinki nii-chan, are you okay? You look really pale.."

"Ah, I'm okay Keiji…"

"You can do it, Shinki nii-chan!! Fight desu!!"

"Of course we can, Keiji-chan. Can be crazy"

The three boys finished talking after Kaima approached them as he telling his next training menu…..

"All right! Let's continue now! Are you ready?!"

………….

The four of them (please don't forget that Mako also participating) successfully speechless, they even lost strength to react. They continue like this until 5 minutes…

"UWWWWOOOOOOOOHHHHH!!!????? 😱😱😱😱😱"

"What the…"

"Ka--Kai??? What's wrong with you?!"

"Kacchan has been purified??? By what and who???!!"

"YOURE NOT MY USUAL NII-CHAN RIGHT?!! YOU'RE IMPOSTER RIGHT?! CUZ HE'S LITERALLY NOT THE TYPE WHO SMILE THAT BRIGHTLY AT THE TIME LIKE THIS!! HE'S LIKE ZUUUUNGGGG AND RAWR!!! Y'KNOW????"

"…This is your real brother, Keiji"

((Mako too traumatized to react))

Hearing their various amazing reaction, Kaima exhaled his breath, even they've completely lost their will to continue the training session.

"Huh… Just as I thought, it's better if I'm not expressive like that. Ayame nee-san.. really not like me."

"Hm.. their reactions were rude.. actually, but it wasn't bad to try, right? Or you never know it"

Note : Kaima actually can be expressive, in a certain situation (And that's just a smile)

Hope you like it!!

[akanidaifanatic]

My Day 1 Entry for NekoWeek2022, hosted by @realloverwiss

Day 1: School days

…

Nekomaru stared at the two girls eating donuts and dango in front of him. My gosh, they were persistent.

The one with the very noticeable ponytail was Aoi Asahina, the Ultimate Swimmer, an olive-skinned girl with bulbous blue eyes, chestnut hair which was always in a ponytail, and a burning passion for eating donuts.

And the other seemed like a carbon copy of Aoi, but her name was Akane Owari and she was the Ultimate Gymnast. Her eyes were a greenish gray, and she seemed less noticeable in comparison to Aoi.

Either he whipped both of them into shape or he’d feel disappointed in himself.

They were clearly unbothered by his presence, still eating food without noticing him.

“Ahem,” he rasped, walking over to them.

“Oh, sorry I didn’t notice you,” Akane glanced up at him, still on a bench with her head on Aoi’s lap.

”Hina?”

Sakura bellowed. “Aoi, your girlfriend’s looking for you,” said Akane.

Aoi didn’t deny her claim. Instead, she got up, leaving Akane lying on the bench, and she ran over to that behemoth of a gorgeous woman called Sakura Ogami.

And that just left Nekomaru with Akane, stuck in a state of awkward silence.

…

Nekomaru stared at the blackboard, still taking down notes. One of his newfound friends, Kiyotaka Ishimaru, the Ultimate Moral Compass, was hosting a study group meeting in the library.

Packing up his things, Nekomaru walked out of the empty classroom, trudging over to the library.

As soon as he got to the school’s massive library, Kiyotaka was motioning for him to sit at a table. Other participants in the meeting were Kaito Momota, the Ultimate Astronaut, Mondo Owada, the Ultimate Biker Gang Leader who was suddenly interested in studying for some reason, and Gonta Gokuhara, the Ultimate Entomologist.

“Okay, gentlemen-“

“Why are you calling us gentlemen?”

“Does Ishimaru-kun really think that Gonta is gentleman?”

“Shut up about the gentlemen part and start studying!”

…

After-school training sessions with your club buddies do sound fun.

“Alright, just imagine that when you finish, I’ll give you a box of donuts,” Akane smiled at Aoi.

“Why say ‘imagine’ when you know I’m gonna buy a whole stock of donuts later?” Aoi fussed, still frowning at some invisible enemy in the grass.

Four students, one Sports Club. The Ultimate Team Manager, the Ultimate Gymnast, the Ultimate Swimmer and the Ultimate Tennis Pro didn’t seem like an unlikely combo. The Ultimate Baseball Star ditched sports entirely, going for the Light Music Club.

Every single day, as soon as every student was dismissed, they met up on the athletic field, just bonding with each other and enjoying their time together.

“AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!”

Aoi shrieked, leaping off of the ground. “Come back here, my liege!” A familiar voice yelled.

A snake was in the grass.

Akane got up, slowly backing off while Nekomaru just stared at the snake. “That’s a corn snake. It’s harmless,” Ryoma muttered.

Gundham was obviously running towards them, practically scoring the snake with his gaze. Aoi sighed with relief.

”I apologize for the trouble that Orpheus has caused you. Come along now, my liege.” Gundham arrived with a frown, while the corn snake slithered into his jacket.

Nekomaru smiled.

Everyone here was weird, and he liked it.

…

sorry if this is hella cringey lol. I did my best, I’ll do better for the upcoming days

also I wrote this in bed at 11:45pm so like I’m drained of motivation

[magioftheseas]

To Hang The Moon and Stars

Summary: An introspective piece focused on Kaito Momota at the beginning of the game.

Rating: T+

Warnings: References to canon violence and death.

Notes: I guess I was in a Kaito Momota mood, because here’s a fic focused on him set at v3′s beginning. I actually like his relationship with Kaede quite a bit so I thought I’d try and explore it. There’s also some Oumota because...you know.

***Alternate Ao3 Link*** Commission? Donate?

He liked Kaede from the start. Who wouldn’t? She was outspoken and assertive, even if her insecurities would creep in every now and then. She would’ve been a perfect leader if only she didn’t second-guess herself so much.

Still, he wanted to support her with everything he had. She had the wits and the will to triumph. He was sure of it.

He wasn’t the only person supporting her, too. That Saihara guy seemed to stick to her like glue and while Kaito was a lot less sure about him, it never hurt to have friends and compatriots. Everyone should’ve seen how striking and full of the starry-eyed potential Kaede was full of!

Which was what made bastards like Ouma beating her down all the more unforgivable. Kaede might’ve been either too meek or polite to argue back, but it still pissed him off to no end.

Still, someone being a leader meant they were to be trusted. He might not agree with Kaede’s occasional cowardly approach, but he could still trust her to carry through. To triumph. Rome didn’t build rockets in a day or however the hell the saying went.

It would be fine.

It would be fine.

--

Ah, hell, things might not be fine.

It had still been a beautiful night out. He hated the cage above, but at least they could still see the stars. Sparkling and full of shimmering possibility—despite everything, looking up at them never failed to cheer him up.

His first thought upon seeing Kaede wandering around had been that maybe she was the same. Maybe they shared that kinship, even with Kaede’s admitted ignorance when it came to space.

He hadn’t thought anything weird about it, except that Kaede jumped when he called out to her.

“Yo!”

Kaede even let out a very unmanly little yelp. And, uh, sure, she wasn’t a man but it was still...

That was beside the point! Kaede started acting a little weird. Her shoulders hunched over, her head ducked and her normally sharp gaze was askance. As if she was caught doing something shameful. That was just weird.

She shouldn’t feel bad about anything, he thought but when it came time to say just that, he held back. She’d argue with him, and he didn’t want that.

“Oh, Momota-kun.”

Even though she recognized him, she still didn’t calm down. If anything, she grew more anxious. It wasn’t right. The leader shouldn’t buckle like that—even to the Luminary of the Stars.

Damn you, Ouma, he cursed because it was always just easier to blame everything on that sniveling liar. Sure, it was a bit unfair but whatever. Jerk still should’ve been more considerate of Kaede.

“I-It’s a bit late,” Kaede began lamely in lieu of Kaito still pondering on what to say. “Um, are you—here to stargaze or...?”

“You don’t have to look so spooked,” he said. “No one’s gonna do anything, no matter what those asshole pandas think.”

“I wasn’t suggesting...!” Kaede shook her head frantically. “T-That, um...!”

Urgh. She wasn’t acting like herself at all. What was he supposed to do?

“S-Sorry,” she apologized meekly, which only made it worse. Was it because he was grimacing?

“No, it’s fine.” Best to just be polite. Best to be reassuring. Even crying kids could cheer up in the face of the Luminary of the Stars. “Is everything alright?”

“It’s...” Kaede hesitated. “Given the situation, I don’t see how anything could be alright.”

“Well, no, but we still got each other’s backs,” he said and flashed a grin. “We’re all friends, ain’t we? There’s six of them and like, sixteen of us. We’ve got numbers even if we don’t got the weapons.”

“Those weapons are the real sticking point,” Kaede sighed. “I just... I’m still worried.”

He can get that. Even he can’t help but worry. He had faith in his comrades, but—a gun was still a gun. He can’t help but worry and think—which of us might end up—?

Except! Such worries were still uncool and lame. If he let shit like that paralyze him with doubt, he might as well stay grounded forever.

“It’ll be fine! We believe in each other!”

Kaede perked up, and she did smile. That was a rousing success, right? Kaede smiling, Kaede hopeful...

“When you say that, I find myself wanting to agree, Momota-kun.”

He let out a huge belly laugh, even as Kaede shushed him for the hour. He rolled his eyes, but it was all good-natured. Kaede was still smiling, even if there was still tension in her shoulders.

“We’ll get through together,” she said and it was wonderful to hear. “I’m sure of it.”

Back to being bright and striking, and Kaito had known things would be fine. That everything would be fine.

That everything would be—

--

It wasn’t right.

It just wasn’t right.

No leader should be swinging like a pendulum like that. Kaede—shouldn’t have gotten crushed like that. And he had just barely gotten to know Amami, what the hell? Just how could this happen?

It wasn’t right.

--

Saihara pissed him off. There was no question about it. He was a spineless, blubbering mess of a man and there was just no relying on someone like that. It pissed him off that Kaede would entrust her wishes to a man who was just so goddamn weak.

...he knew he was being unfair. He still couldn’t even come to grips with Kaede dying. It didn’t feel real. He didn’t want to believe it. He wanted to wake the fuck up and see her smiling face in the morning with everyone else—

But she wasn’t anywhere in sight when he looked. Because the way that piano chomped down on her body...probably didn’t leave anything behind.

He felt so sick he couldn’t eat, and god fucking damn it all—he hated himself so much. When he thought about Saihara again, he just...

He guessed that he didn’t want Kaede’s wishes to go to waste.

But, he also knew that Saihara saved Kaede in a way.

He doesn’t want to think of her like this, but if there had ever been even a shadow of a moment where Kaede thought against telling them what she did—that would’ve been worse than death. Even if she survived, she would’ve destroyed herself. She was always too kind, too caring towards others—and god help him, he adored her for that alongside everything else that made her great.

Kaito made his choice then and there. He wasn’t going to be as bright or even as clever, but he’ll do everything he can to carry Saihara even if it was through the depths of hell. No, he’ll do everything he can for Shuuichi. Not just as a leader...but as a friend, too.

It’s what Kaede would’ve wanted, and he’d do anything for her.

--

...it hurt. It really did hurt, watching Shuuichi cry his eyes out, but it helped. They’d heal and they’d carry on. They’ll work together, they’ll fight together, they’ll win together.

It would be fine.

It had to be.

“Wah! I thought I found some sort of shadow troll, but it was just that idiot Momota-chan!”

Urgh.

“It’s so late out,” Ouma went on, looming over him with a malicious grin. “Were you contemplating something devious? You weren’t planning on killing anyone, right?”

“Dumbass,” he snapped. “I’m just laying here and thinking. Shouldn’t it be past your bedtime?”

“I’m on a night prowl, you know,” Ouma said. “Unlike you slackers, I care very much about preventing murders, you see!” He laughed, grating and irritating. “That’s a lie! I was actually planning on killing you right here and now! You better start running!”

“Dude, I am not in the fucking mood. I’m...”

Exhausted. He’s fucking exhausted. But, if Shuuichi saw him like this, it’d ruin everything. Still, if he goes to bed, he might end up dreaming of her.

“You gonna sleep outside?” Ouma asked, blinking down at him owlishly. “That’ll make it super easy to kill you, you know.”

“No one’s gonna do that. Kaede, just... She was different.”

“She wasn’t boring, unlike you.”

“...hah.”

Seriously, he didn’t think he’d get Ouma. He just knew he didn’t like this kid.

“Seriously, though.”

He really didn’t understand, especially when Ouma started speaking to him like this.

“Akamatsu-chan isn’t going to be the only one who turns to murder.” This frustrating kid leaned in, his irritatingly childish face obscuring the stars—and the cage bars. “Trusting everyone isn’t feasible. You need to learn how to exercise caution. I won’t always be here to look out for you.”

He didn’t understand, because then Ouma was grinning.

“But I will be there to kill you! Nishishishi!”

“Oi...”

And of course, the brat ran off. Frustrating and incomprehensible—but a total fucking coward all the same. That wasn’t who Kaito wanted to be at all, and it was someone that he really needed to keep far away from Shuuichi, too.

Still, he’s worried. Who wouldn’t be? That jackass may have given Kaede a lot of grief, but...

Even like this, Kaede’s pitiful smile kept flashing and flashing in his mind’s eye.

What would you do? You’d manage, right? You’d definitely...manage.

It would be fine.

It would be fine.

[tantei-suki]

Saiouma Chapter 1

Part 1

Prologue

{ } A cheeky child who spins lies every day. Comes a little boy in the clothes of a magician plays. A straight jacket and colorful buttons All of a sudden, He puts on a show Displaying a clown mask with many faces, but hiding behind it, looks ahead but stands alone. Plain and simple, tired and shy Looking beyond the little leaders lies Missing details, betrayed friendships, understanding when nothing can be done. He had support and was loved by all; he took out the one who tormented them all. But how many remain, he thought? The happiness they shared has died out. Was it all for nothing? He will have to find out. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ꕥ-- “Shumai!” Kokichi said with an overly teasing voice while jumping on Shuichi's back. “Ack! Ah… o-Ouma-Kun, do you need something?” The faceless prankster is still chirping happily like a child. What a peculiar situation this is. The forever energetic prankster and the detective with too many worries. My, my~. Shuichi has taken his interest. “Shumai, let's hang out today!” Kokichi has his usual child-like excitement as usual. “S-sorry, Ouma-Kun, but Momota-Kun has already asked me to train w-with him and Harukawa-chan.” Oh. It seems that the little detective has already made plans. How will our evil leader react to that? “Wahhhh! Shumai hates me!” Ah, of course. The easiest way to get what he wants is to blackmail the detective with tears as his weapon emotionally. “Ouma-Kun, we can hang out after Momota-Kun, and I train.” Calm and collected, he has probably grown used to the Kokichis' theatrical performances. “Yay! Shumai can play!” And with that, the little leader ran off.

[bamboo-woods]

Maizono’s swimsuit event

Maizono: I'm sorry, I've made you wait. It took me a while to get ready... Mukuro: Not at all, it's okay. There are still guys who aren't here yet. Hmph? Naegi: E, erm... Ouma: My my, what's happening, Naegi-chan! You've completely fallen for Maizono-chan? Naegi: I, it's not... Maizono: ...... Naegi: like I haven't thought that way at all, but... Ouma: Even if you don't get startled like that, it's a normal thing to fall over for a top idol's swimsuit, right? Hey, you gotta tell her how you think properly. Since you're reacting stupidly, Maizono's in trouble too. Mukuro: You... keep quiet for a moment. If you go like that, it gets harder to say anything. (Ouma and Mukuro disappears) Naegi: Hey, Maizono-san... Maizono: ... Naegi-kun, have you seen that? The menu on the beach house, it's more extravagant than expected. I, want to try shaved ice. How about we eat them together before everyone gathers up? Naegi: Yeah... I'll try too. (scene switches to sunset) Ouma: Oh, they swam, they swam! Momota and Yumeno in the sand was a masterpiece! Gonta: I'm so sorry, two of you! Gonta, completely forgot about digging you two up and played... Yumeno: Uwa, it's okay now so let's go back... I'm tired from getting tensed up and I'm hungry... Maizono: Naegi-kun... shall we go back too. It's been fun today. It's been a while since I played to my heart's content at sea. Naegi: Yeah... It was enjoyable for me. And... Maizono. I've really missed the time to say this though but... Naegi: That swimsuit... looks gorgeous. Maizono: Naegi-kun... Thank you. Maizono: An idol's swimsuit isn't something rare... so I was worried, that it might not interest you. Naegi: I, it's nothing like that! Naegi: I mean, it's strange to say that I'm interested in them too but... It's true that I thought it was gorgeous. Maizono: Fufu, I'm happy.

[ahwait-no-yes]

🍬Candy Kingdom🍭

Make sure to look at the designs JJ made! (With some of mine!) It’s under the tag Candy Kingdom!

- 6 -

After basically chasing Ouma around for what felt like hours, he finally caught up to him and managed to slow him down. While Shuichi was struggling to breathe properly, Kokichi kept going on about how he could keep running for hours on end without getting tired. Though, he ended up helping him breathe properly once he realized he was still wheezing.

“Saihara-chan, you okay now?” He asked, his voice softer than usual. Shuichi nodded, glancing at the other boy. “Good!” Kokichi jumped up and grabbed his hand. “Well c'mon! We can’t sit here all day!” He grinned again, squeezing his hand a little too tightly. 

“Just,” he paused, taking a few deep breaths, “No more running around, okay?” Shuichi asked warily, squeezing back without a second thought.

Kokichi pouted, gently kicking Saihara’s ankle. “Why? Are you already tired? Are you Saihara-chan? Huh?” He asked, getting closer to his face. 

“Yes, I’m tired. I don’t know how you aren’t,” He murmured, gently pushing him away. Ouma stuck his tongue out at him, letting go of his hand. 

“It’s because I spend all my time running away from the guards!”

“Really?” Saihara asked, astonishment seeping into his voice. “Yep! I cause allll sorts of trouble just to inconvenience them!” He chirped, placing a hand on his chest. 

“All by yourself?” He tilted his head, biting the inside of his cheek. Kokichi stared at him for a moment before smiling and poking his cheek. 

“Welll, I have an organization with 10,000 members! So you can imagine how much help I can get.”

“Is that a lie?“ 

Kokichi stared at him for a moment before laughing. "Wow! Saihara-chan’s catching on quick!” He chirped, a sly grin on his face. “That’s good,” He murmured, fondly smiling at the other boy. He just giggled and skipped away, leaving Saihara to chase after him again. 

Luckily, Kokichi skidded to a stop once he arrived in front of a large shop. Shuichi was still a bit out of breath, though he tried to not show it. He had a feeling the other would tease him about being unathletic. It wasn’t exactly his fault. He would often get in trouble for running in the castle, and after a few lectures he gave up. Though, it did bring up some fond memories of playing tag with his older sister. (And being chased around by her while he screamed in pure fear. He obviously didn’t enjoy it as much as she did, but he was glad he had more memories with her. They didn’t talk as much once they got older, after all.)

Kokichi suddenly yanked him forward and dragged him into the shop. Saihara let the other boy drag him around aimlessly, not knowing where he would go. He was pretty much never allowed outside the grounds of the palace, seeing as his father would always worry he would get hurt or lost. At some point, they let him explore a bit with a guard following him around. He didn’t end up doing much though, he got too nervous around them due to their serious personality and just asked to go back home.

When he stopped day dreaming he noticed Kokichi glanced around him before grabbing something and slipping it into his pocket. After that, he went back to looking around, easily playing it off. After a second, Shuichi whispered to him, “Why’d you do that?” From what he saw, it wasn’t anything valuable. It was just a small bag of some sort of cookies, and it didn’t look too expensive. Ouma could’ve just asked Saihara to buy it for him.

Kokichi just grinned at him and pressed a finger to his lips, obviously telling the other to keep quiet about it. Shuichi just looked away, a nervous smile on his face. He quietly giggled, grabbing his arm and dragging him to another isle. After roaming around for a few minutes, they ended up leaving empty handed. After walking away from the store, he pulled the bag out of his pocket and tossed it from hand to hand, grinning.

“I could’ve bought it for you,” Saihara muttered, a small frown on his face. 

“Yeah, but my many subordinates can only eat food that wasn’t paid for! It’s a tragedy, really,” Kokichi had tears in the corners of his eyes and sloppily wiped them away. “I’m sure that’s a lie. Ouma-kun, you shouldn’t do that. You could get into lots of trouble,” He stated. He made sure to be polite but firm, knowing Ouma could easily change the direction of the conversation if he wanted to.

“Jeez, you sound like a guard Saihara-chan,” he rolled his eyes, beginning to twirl a strand of his hair. 

“I’m just trying to look out for you,” Shuichi quietly sighed, gently covering his mouth. 

“Well, you don’t need to! I’m perfectly capable of looking out for myself, promise!” Kokichi’s voice was playful as usual, but he had a certain edge in his eyes, telling Saihara to drop the topic. 

“If you say so,” Shuichi pulled at his sleeve, feeling the tension he created. He was worried that they would continue walking in silence, though his worries quickly diminished when Ouma spoke up again. “Saihara-chan! You should meet more of friends!” He said in lighthearted tone, grinning at him. “Your friends are very..” Shuichi paused for a second, making a few hand gestures. “Unique.”

“Oh? Does Saihara-chan not like my friends?” Kokichi feigned a shocked expression, barely supressing a grin. 

“It’s not that! They’re just very different from people I know,” Shuichi nervously laughed and looked away. 

“What kind of people are you used to then?” He asked, tilting his head. Saihara paused for a moment, choosing his words carefully. “They’re very serious and formal.”

He expected the other to question it, but Kokichi just nodded and continued walking. It was quiet except for the gravel crunching beneath his shoes. They were starting to become uncomfortable at this point, he was almost constantly wearing them and was walking around a lot more than usual. He was usually in his room reading detective novels.

It reminded him of his uncle, that was part of the reason he read them so often. He couldn’t remember his face anymore, the last time he saw him was so long ago. He was a detective, and he influenced Shuichi a lot. So much in fact, that he told his parents he wanted to be a detective like him. When they heard that, they swiftly took him away from his uncle, and he hasn’t seen him since.

He doesn’t tell his parents much after that. 

“Hey, Saihara-chan, you’re spacing out again,” Kokichi had a small pout on his face. He assumed he had snapped in front of his face, seeing as his hand was directly in front of him. 

“Ah, I’m sorry,” Shuichi would always have to apologize when he did that at home, so it became a habit at this point. 

“It’s okay! I’m used to it by now!” He giggled mischievously, poking Shuichi’s chest.

Before Saihara could even think of a response to that, the other clapped his hands and smiled at him. “Anyhow, we’re gonna go meet up with a few more friends! Then we can do whatever your emo heart desires!” Kokichi chirped, rocking back and forth on his feet. Shuichi decided not to protest and just nodded, causing the other to cheer and drag him somewhere else. 

Ouma was holding onto his hand again and was speed walking somewhere. He was swinging their arms back and forth. He was talking about his organization and how he could order them to do anything at the blink of an eye. It went on like this for a few minutes, until he arrived in front of a group of small houses. 

Kokichi let go of his hand and started banging his fist on the door. Shuichi was going to say something at first, but decided against it. A string of curses was heard before the door swung open, revealing someone with purple hair that stuck up. (He still wasn’t exactly sure how that worked.)

He looked like he was about to yell at Ouma, but his agitated expression quickly disappeared when he noticed someone was standing beside him. “Hiya Momota-chan! I brought a friend with me this time!” Kokichi grabbed Saihara by his shoulders and gently shook him, earning a confused look from the other boy.

“Hey! Name’s Kaito Momota! Sorry you had to deal with him for a while,” He stated, motioning towards an offended-looking Kokichi. “Don’t act like I’m a pest! It hurts my feelings, you bully!” He started wailing, drawing attention to them all. 

“C'mon, you’re causing a scene!” Kaito complained, flicking his forehead. That only caused Ouma to scream and cry even louder. 

“Ouma kun, please stop crying,” Shuichi murmured, gently nudging the other boy. 

“Finally someone asks nicely. I was gonna pass out from dehydration because of all of those precious tears lost,” He complained, looking at his nails. Kaito just sighed and turned towards Saihara a welcoming smile on his face. 

“I never got your name, what was it?”

“Oh! My name’s Shuichi Saihara,” He said sheepishly, feeling a bit embarrassed he had forgotten to say his name. 

“It’s nice to meet ya Saihara!” He exclaimed, patting (more like hitting,) Saihara’s back. Kokichi stared at Momota for a second before trying to walk past him. Kaito let him, but not before saying, “You’re supposed to ask before coming inside, dumbass.”

Kaito moved to the side and let Shuichi walk in. He was surprised to see the house was filled with talking people, who he assumed were friends and family. He quickly followed Ouma, not eager on being alone. Kokichi looked over his shoulder and grabbed his arm, grinning at him. He pushed him into the kitchen, which only had a few people in. Ouma tossed Saihara a bag of sweets before grabbing one for himself.

“Isn’t Momota-chan nice? He stocks his pantry full of sweets for me, you know!” Kokichi stated, chewing on a piece of candy. “But that’s a lie. They’re still tasty though,” He giggled to himself. Shuichi just fidgeted with the small bag, moving closer to the other boy. Ouma gently nudged him, tilting his head. “Oh, I’m just not a huge fan of sweets,” Saihara murmured, nervously laughing.

“Really?” Kokichi tilted his head. “Yeah, so you can have it,” He murmured, motioning to the bag of candy. “If you say so!” He chirped, snatching the bag from him and slipping it into his pocket. Saihara chuckled at the other, covering his mouth. Kaito strolled into the kitchen, perking up at the sight of the two boys.

“Hey, Saihara!” He waved at them, an energetic smile on his face. “So, you new around here? Small town, practically know everyone here,” He stated, giving a thumbs up. Before Shuichi could start panicking, he said the first thing that came to his mind. “I live pretty far, I just got lost and ended up here,” Kokichi stared at him for a second before grinning. “Yep! I found poor Saihara-chan all alone! If it weren’t for me he’d probably be dead!” He exclaimed dramatically, putting a hand on his chest.

“I’m sure he would’ve been fine without your help Ouma,” Kaito stated, a small frown on his face. “C'mon you dont have to be so mean to me!” He whined, tears in the corner of his eyes. 

“I’m not being mean!” He exclaimed, a bewildered expression on his face.

“Yes you are! Isn’t he being cruel Saihara-chan?!” Kokichi turned towards Saihara, a small pout on his face.

Shuichi was quiet for a moment, genuinely thinking it over. “Well, I don’t think Momota’s intention was to be rude. Though, I’m not sure I would’ve been able to get out safely without your help,” Kokichi was quiet for a moment before sighing dramatically, deflating. 

“I guess. I’m still right though,” He murmured, crossing his arms. 

“Whatever helps you sleep at night,” was all Kaito said, a fond smile on his face.

“I’ll have you know I sleep soundly on a mattress filled with the softest stuff around,” Kokichi stated. Before Momota could even respond to that, he continued, “My organization with over 10,000 members only give me the best!” Kokichi pressed a finger to his lips, a mischievous expression on his face.

“That’s gotta be a lie,” Kaito muttered, looking a bit agitated. 

“Maybe you’d know if you were, you know, less stupid.”

“You shouldn’t call people stupid Ouma-kun,” Saihara chided, hearing him whine. Kokichi just pouted and started messing with a colorful bandaid on his finger, seemingly looking bored. 

“How come you never listen to me when I tell you that?” Kaito asked, frowning.

“Because I don’t listen to idiots,” Shuichi lightly glared at the other, gently nudging him. 

“Stop calling me that! It hurts my feelings, you know!”

“Okay, I’m sorry,” Kokichi muttered, but not before kicking Momota in the ankle. “I appreciate it,” Kaito said sarcastically, being able to tell he was lying. Still, he ruffled Ouma’s hair, earning a surprised squawk and a slap on the hand. Shuichi quietly giggled, causing Kokichi to half-heartedly glare at him. “The sun’s setting, do you two wanna stay here for the night? I don’t need you two getting in trouble for staying out past curfew.”

“Curfew? What’re you talking about?” Saihara asked, slightly tilting his head. “Yeah, they made that a rule recently because of crime rates or whatever. It sucks, but we don’t really get a say in it,” Kaito sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. “Usually I would say no, but because Saihara-chan is such a rule follower, I don’t see why not,” Kokichi stated, obviously thinking of when he took that practically worthless bag of cookies.

Shuichi quietly sighed, gently pinching the bridge of his nose. “If you’re fine with us staying, I’d appreciate it,” Kaito pat his shoulder, a smile on his face. “Don’t worry about it! You can make up for it by training with me tomorrow morning!” Kokichi grinned at Saihara, shaking his arm excitedly. “It’s mostly just some simple work outs. Trust me, it’ll help at some point! Especially if you’re chasing him for whatever reason,” Kaito motioned to Ouma and grimaced, seeming to remember something.

“You’re just salty about the fact I came up with a genius prank,” Kokichi sing songed, grabbing a blanket off the couch. 

“Said prank was taping firecrackers to my toilet seat,” Kaito muttered, loudly sighing. 

“He what?” Shuichi turned towards a grinning Ouma. “It was hilarious! Not only did he chase me around for like, ten minutes, he also-”

He was cut off by Kaito throwing a pillow at him. “You’re sleeping on the couch for that. Ouma, show him the guest room, I am not going to bed angry. Goodnight you two,” Kaito disappeared into his room. 

“Well, follow me Saihara chan!” Kokichi dropped his stack of pillows and blankets onto the couch and lead Saihara to another room. “This is where you’ll sleep. Maybe forever if I decide to kill you!”

Shuichi quietly laughed, feeling fatigue settle in. “Whatever you say Ouma-kun,” he said, yawning into his hand. 

“Hey! You should be more scared, you know,” Kokichi’s voice was quieter than before. 

“Maybe, but I’m tired and just want to sleep right now,” Saihara lazily pat the other boy’s head. Kokichi just pouted and crossed his arms. “Since I’m so nice, I guess you can go to sleep. Night Saihara chan!”

Shuichi closed the door and laid down, finally letting exhaustion take over.

—

And of course, he woke up tightly wrapped in blankets with a small note that read, “I decided not to kill you, maybe next time Saihara-chan!” -D.A 

~~

i cant draw but this chapter was so adorable ohmg the serotonin,,

-

5 | 6 | 7

Read it on AO3!

[asudai-tls]

EPISODE 0: PART 2

Part 1 || Part 2 || Part 3

Video

Ren (monologue): "Let's do some astrojacking together at MiKe Studio." To be honest I was a bit shaken by Nao-san's unexpected invitation. But, even so I--

TITLE (Ren) : ASTRO DIVE: Second Stage Separation

Ren: -- Sorry. I'm quitting Astro Dive. 

Nao: I see. 

Ren: Please excuse me. I was happy to hear what Nao-san said, but...

Seira: Another "but". What a roundabout way of speaking. 

Kei: Seira. 

Seira: You love Astro Dive so much that you want to stream every day, but you have this weird contradiction of wanting to quit. At your age, it's natural to make mistakes and worry, but later you'll only have yourself and no one else to blame. 

Ren: -! No, I won't! I absolutely don't want to blame anyone else. This is all my fault... I don't want to drag anyone else into this!

Seira: Drag anyone else...?

APOLLO (the AI): We have a customer. 

Kei: Sorry for interrupting. It looks like someone has come to pick you up, Amaya-kun.

Ren: Pick me up? 

Kei: I'm sorry for doing this without your permission, but I contacted your current address. Seems like you're staying at the school dorms over vacation. Your friends are coming to pick you up. 

Nao: As expected~ Kei works fast. APOLLO, unlock the front door~

APOLLO: The door is already being unlocked. 

Seira: Huh? Already being unlocked? 

Ren: Friends? No way--

Toa: Hey, there were some kids wandering around the entrance so I brought them over.

Kei: Toa. Did you let another customer in without permission?

Toa: Mmm? They seemed so desperate. Don't they seem like poor little dears? Don't be shy, come on~

Sou: Excuse me for dropping by. I heard that Ren was here.

Minato: Ren! Haa, thank goodness!

Ren: Sou.... Minato....

Minato: We were really worried. We couldn't find you at all. You should have at least contacted us!

Sou: I'm glad to see that you're in better health than I feared. You didn't come back for days, so I was imagining the worst...

Ren: ... Sorry.

Sou: It was someone from the studio here who helped him, right? Thank you very much.

Nao: You're welcome. 

Minato: Huh? Nao... san?

Kei: Are the two of you his dormmates?

Sou: Dormmates, but also--

Minato: Childhood friends and Astro Dive unit mates! I'm Minato Aizawa, a second year student at Tensei Academy!

Sou: My name is Sou Asahi, and I'm also a second year student at Tensei Academy. When summer vacation started, the three of us were supposed to go back to Hokkaido, but Ren said he was going "stargazing" and never came back, so we got worried.

Kei: Hokkaido - the Sapporo conservation area? You're such thoughtful people, canceling your long-distance trip home to go look for your friend.

Minato: I mean, we were too worried to go home!

Sou: If Ren isn't there, there's no point.

Ren: I wish they had gone home. 

Seira: That's no way to talk to friends who are worried about you.

Toa: Haha. This situation feels a bit complicated.

Momota: Aha! Toa, why you...! How many times do you have to interrupt my stream before you're satisfied? You're the worst!

Yamato: Wait, Momota-san! I told you Toa didn't mean any harm, right?!

Momota: Yamato, this doesn't concern you. Sh-u-t up. 

Yamato: What do you mean "doesn't concert me"? We're in the same unit!

Momota: Shut up! Idiot! Dumbass! 

Yamato: What are you, a child?!

Momota: I was just telling the truth~! Hmph!

Minato: Isn't that Momorin?

Sou: I.. I think so. 

Minato: Is that really him? His vibes are kinda different...

Sou: Well... There's a lot going on. This seems to be a private matter. 

Kei: The worst people barged in at the worst time...

Seira: They're fighting again?

Nao: LMLMM×××♡ are such good friends~

Yamato: That sarcasm is not helping right now, Nao-san.

Minato: Uh, are you people from this studio?

Kei: Yeah, they're divers from a unit called LMLMM×××♡, a trio consisting of Momota, Tao, and Yamato--

Momota: Listen to me, Kei-san! Toa came into the studio during my stream! And then he turned off the lights. That's unbelievable, right? This isn't even the first time.

Kei: Hm? Is that so? 

Yamato: So, lock the door during the broadcast, Momota-san. Though, I really wonder what kind of mistake made it possible to turn off the lights.

Momota: What? Yamato, are you taking Toa's side in this? I can't take it anymore. No choice, we have to disband the unit. 

Yamato: Stop jumping to disbanding so quickly!

Toa: Sorry about that, Momo-kun. I don't know anything about streaming.

Yamato: The worst part is that Toa says that but doesn't seem to want to remember anything either.

Momota: Then, let's split up. Okay, LMLMM×××♡ disband~☆

Ren: ...Disbanding a unit isn't something you can decide that easily.

Momota: Huh? 

Sou: Ren. 

Minato: Oh, you know what?! I know a good app! It seems like you have an APOLLO, so I think you can use it!

Kei: A good app? 

Minato: It makes it so that the AI can automatically control the studio environment during streaming. Since we were broadcasting from school, students often accidentally came into the studio. It was a huge problem, so Sou found this for me. 

Minato: Ah! This one. 

Kei: OK. I installed it. 

APOLLO: Installation complete.

Sou: The operation is automated, so it's not difficult. I recommend it because it significantly reduces distribution problems.

Kei: I know about this. I think it's a pretty niche app though.

Yamato: Cool. So Toa can use this as well? 

Toa: Hmm~ I'll try to remember to~

Seira: So then. LMLMM×××♡ doesn't have to disband, right?

Yamato: Of course not. 

Toa: Hehe. I'll try my best. 

Noa: You okay with that, Momomo?

Momota: I guess it can't be helped. We'll work together a little longer. 

Kei: What an unexpected solution. Amaya-kun's unit is still made up of students, but they seem to have as much knowledge as the divers at MiKe Studio. It would be great if you could join my studio. What do you say, Amaya-kun?

Ren: ... I'd have to refuse, just like earlier. 

Kei: Is it because you're quitting being a diver? I wonder if your two fellow unit members know about that?

Ren: That's--

Sou: As I thought. You're really thinking of quitting this unit, Ren?

Ren: Ah...

Kei: Whoops. My bad. They heard me. 

Sou: When Ren disappeared, I wondered if that was the case. I was planning to ask him if I saw him again.

Minato: Ren... were you seriously thinking that? You never consulted me about any of it...

Sou: You don't have to worry about what others think. You're talented and our unit has a lot of potential.

Ren: ... Things will probably be better without me. I'm sure if you both did it together―

Minato: What are you saying?! We can't do that!

Momota: Hm? If one of you is scared, it's impossible to work together even if you're friends, right? And I'm sure Ren thought it over carefully before leaving the unit. Unlike me.

Yamato: Ah, sorry. Momota-san holds quite the grudge.

Ren: ... Of course I thought it through properly! I left the dorm and walked alone, thinking. No, it's been even longer than that -- I've been thinking about it for a whole year since last year, and I've come to the conclusion that I can't hold the two of you back any more!

Momota: Then should we invite just those two to MiKe Studio? Kei always said he wanted a diver who actually works hard.

Kei: Well, that's true, but... It was Minato Aizawa-kun and Sou Asahi-kun, right? As I already explained to Amayai-kun, this MiKe Studio is an Astro Dive -- that is an astrojack broadcasting station.

Seira: Everyone here, including me, is a diver. We have three units, LMLMM×××♡, GalactaKING, and us, Twi■■light. We all live together in this studio.

Kei: As you can see, there is ample living space, food, and studio facilities, and everyone is able to work freely however they like. Though, I'm just singing my own praises as manager. 

Nao: I think it’s a great place to live and to stream~

Kei:  That goes double for you, though. You're the owner.

Momota: Well, it's safe and a great place, in my opinion.

Yamato: There are few units that are able to broadcast properly though...

Kei: That's the problem. As a broadcasting station, we can't make any money if we don't broadcast, so we're looking for Astro Divers who can do the job properly.  If you have experience with Astro Dive, we'd love to have you. Are you interested?

Minato: That's... I want to do Astro Dive, so of course I'm interested.

Kei: Great. The ultimate goal is to get to the Triple G.

Sou: Huh? Triple G?

Seira: If you're studying Astro Dive, you should know about it, right? Grand Galaxy Gala, or Triple G for short. The most famous and popular broadcast program of Astro Dive.

Kei: If you come out on top, you'll be given the title of best diver in the universe. If you're going to do Astro Dive, I think you should work towards the goal of becoming the best in the universe. Personally.

Toa: Is that so, Owner~?

Nao: Anything's fine. I just leave it to Kei.

Sou: Our unit, ATOMOSUREINN, was also aiming for Triple G. My dream was to become the best in the universe with Astro Dive.

Kei: Oh, so you guys were that ATOMOSUREINN group. So, our end goals are the same. MiKe Studio will support divers as much as possible, and the conditions should be pretty good. Would you consider joining?

Sou: That's...

Minato: ...Ren.

Ren: ...

Minato: We'll do it. Let us do it. The three of us from ATOMOSUREINN will join the studio.

Ren: Minato! Don't group me in without my consent...!

Minato: Ren, if you leave it will be the end of ATOMOSUREINN. Are you trying to disturb Sou's and my dream?  We've always aimed to reach Triple G. Don't let that insignificant jealousy get the better of you and look back at us. What do you mean "you can't do it now" -- that's betrayal. Are you betraying ATOMOSUREINN, Ren?

Ren (monologue): Saying that, Minato glared at me with eyes I'd never seen before. -- I know. I know you well. We've been together for 10 years now. This anger wasn't directed at me. Minato hated the "cowardice" inside me. That cowardice grew from being criticized, from expectations placed on my shoulders. The cowardice that snuck out of the school dormitory and ran here and there trying not to be seen by anyone. In the shadows of the city, in the mountains, on top of a tower. But that "cowardice", there's no doubt about it, is me. If it were so easy to cut it off and drop it into the ocean, there would be no need to suffer in the first place. ...I want to just disappear. If only I could disappear... I'd feel better...

Nao: Hey, if there's something on your mind, why don't you talk about it?

Part 1 || Part 2 || Part 3

[forbidding-souda]

Could you do Kaito Momota x reader who is nonbinary but really scared to tell him and he eventually finds out and is like super nice and comforting about it? I’m currently trying to tell my bf I’m nonbinary but it’s been really hard. Kaito is my comfort character so I feel like this might help me be a little less nervous about it. Thank u if u do this💛!

Kaito Momota finding out his S/O in non-binary

Ugh, yes! Sometimes I wonder what being in Kaito’s jacket is like. Not sure if you wanted it killing game or not, but here you go~

-Mod Korekiyo

Kaito

You didn’t know how to tell your boyfriend that you’re non-binary.

You’re scared he might scold and break up with you.

After all, he did tell Shuichi to “man up” and insulted Korekiyo for being too feminine. 

You roamed around the school, fingers tracing the cracks on the walls of the school building.

What’s worse is that, if you tell him and he breaks up with you, everybody would know.

Fear seemed to be almost human as you felt pressure weighing on your shoulders, or rather on your mind and mental state.

You bit on your thumbnail; saliva covering it.

You then stepped outside to see the dome covering the school.

Standing there, you observed the dome, covering you and the 17 students.

You’ve wondered why people would get out of their way and time to capture 17 students with talents, just for them to die.

The buildings were very detailed and well built.

There were even Ultimate Labs!

Your current situation made you even more stressed out, fear covering your atmosphere.

You took a sharp inhale then started walking.

You saw a tall figure and began walking the other way until you were stopped in your tracks.

“Hi Miss Y/N!” a voice called out.

You turned your head to the figure who was actually Gonta.

“Ah.. Hi Gonta!” you said, your words sounding inflected.

“Miss”, you thought in your head.

You were now non-binary now, so the word made you a bit uncomfortable.

Gonta ran up to you and grinned.

You were kind of intimidated with his height, made you feel like a bug.

Gonta took a notice in your facial expressions and tilted his head.

“You look sad, what’s wrong?” Gonta asked you.

“Well.. I-”.

You were hesitant.

You worried Gonta wouldn’t understand and tell the others.

Either way, you were taking chances today.

“Well.. I want to tell Momota-kun/Kaito that I-I’m non-binary…” you said, your face turning into a pensive frown.

“Ah?” Gonta blurted out.

“...Gonta does not know what “non-bandaid” means but… Gonta accepts you! I bet Momota-kun/Kaito will too!” Gonta exclaimed, a smile plastered on his face.

His words seemed to cure you as you felt more confident.

“Thank you.. Gokuhara-kun/Gonta” you mumbled. 

“Gonta is always happy to help!” Gonta spoke out.

Gonta’s eyes seemed to look somewhere else.

“Oh! Is that a bug? U-uhm, sorry Miss Y/N, but Gonta must go!” he exclaimed, running off.

“U-uh, bye Gonta!” you shouted out.

You inhaled, you felt more confident thanks for Gonta and decided you’d confess right now, today.

You knew Kaito was in the Casino, so you began walking there.

Not long after, you made it.

You took another shape inhale, as you stopped inside the building.

Bright lights were everywhere, so you let your eyes adjust to the quite bright lighting.

You scanned your eyes back and forth to try and find him.

Then, you found him.

He was fiddling around, which seemed to be a joystick connected to one of the casino’s machines.

You wanted to surprise him.

So you quietly crept towards him.

You were now behind Kaito, ready to jump attack on him.

“BOO!” you shouted out.

Kaito’s face turned into horror as his body became like a broken toy and of course, him screaming.

He soon fell down onto the floor only to look up and see you.

“S/O!?” the astronaut said, his face becoming more relaxed.

“Hey Kaito..!” you replied, chuckling.

You soon remembered what you came here for, making you pressured.

You lended out your hand towards him as he grabbed your wrist and stood up.

“H-hey, what was that for!” he fumed.

“I’m sorry Kaito! I just thought it was funny” you teased.

“Well,I guess it was a good scare..” he mumbled.

You were now practically shaking, as you thought in your mind, and looked up at Kaito.

“Kaito..” you called out.

“Uhh, yes S/O?” he replied.

“I have something to tell you, Kaito” you sighed out.

“Well, what is it?” exclaimed the astronaut, as he tilted his head in confusion.

“...Well, I-” you faltered out. 

You interjected your sentence to think for a second.

‘Would he still accept me? I’m sure he would! Maybe..’ you thought in your head.

“S/O? S/O..?” Kaito asked, his smile becoming more forced.

Out of the blue, you blurted out your thoughts.

“Kaito I’m non-binary!” you shouted out.

You realised what you’ve done and looked up at him.

His face turned to being a forced smile and into shock.

“I-.. S/O..” Kaito murmured.

“I know you don’t love me and I-” you said, but your sentence was once again interjected.

YOu were embraced into a hug, with your boyfriend, Kaito.

“Seriously? I still love you! I don’t care if you’re non-binary… I’ll love you no matter what S/O” Kaito grinned.

You felt tears welling up on your eyes.

“Thanks Kaito..” you said.

“No problem. Want to ask Kirumi for some ice cream to celebrate?” he asked.

“Ice cream!? Heck yeah!” you said, smiling.

[frauleinjustice]

Saimatsu Valentines Day Prompt!

Heeey, my good peoples! Happy Valentines Day!! ♥ Naturally, I wanted to write a cute little oneshot for it~ This time: with my saimatsu babies!! I just thought it would be cute to write something for them for once, hehe...

Summary: For Valentines Day, Kaede wanted to make homemade chocolates for her crush, Shuichi. But since she normally never cooks, she had Maki assist her in making chocolates that actually come out good. And not only will she want to give him romantic chocolates, but: finally confess how she feels, too...

So yeah, I hope you all will enjoy! And as always, thank you so much in advanced if you decide to give it a read. May you all have a nice day, and indulge in some chocolatey treats, regardless if you celebrate today or not! 🍫

"What the hell, Akamatsu." Was the immediate reaction of Maki once she saw the disaster of a kitchen before her very eyes. Splotches of ingredients stained the counter, bowls messily stacked upon each other, and the pot Kaede had used to whisk everything together... was completely burnt at the bottom. And the practice chocolates she had made... looked burnt and greatly misshapen.

"H-Hahah....haaah....." Is the only thing the pianist can utter in response, before she gives several bows. "S-Sorry! I tried to make them on my own, I-I really did! But it uh... diiidn't go exactly well..." She laughs weakly, with even her apron looking like a mess. Tomorrow was Valentine’s Day: the reason Kaede had even attempted to try making chocolates in the first place. While she normally would buy chocolates for her friends... this time, she wanted to actually make them for a very special person. That person being: Saihara Shuichi. To pretty much everyone else in their class-aside from the very boy himself, funnily enough-it was obvious as day Kaede had a big crush on the detective. Not only did she want to give him chocolates that were homemade... but ones that were supposed to be romantic. Even if the thought of giving the guy she likes chocolates was completely nerve-wrecking, not only knowing if he’d like romantic chocolates from her or if he’ll even realize they’re supposed to be romantic: she wanted to believe it would go well, shaking her head of the thoughts of it going badly.

Though... the progress of actually trying to make chocolates, as Maki could see: was not exactly going well at all. Kaede normally isn't allowed to cook, as to avoid the risk of her injuring her fingers, due to being a pianist. It was times like these where she really wished she could cook, since there was no way she was going to give Shuichi these badly made attempts. That's why Maki was here: in a near desperate plea, Kaede called her to ask her to come to her house so she could help her out. Reluctantly, the "child caregiver" gave in and came over after enough begging, since actually she felt a bit bad for Kaede. Sighing, she just shakes her head and goes to tie her hair up in a single high ponytail. "Yeah, I can see that. Fine, I'll help you: but you're still going to be doing most of the work. It's for Saihara, after all."

"Yes!!" She nods, pumping her fists. "All you have to do is watch my progress, make sure I don't screw up! Thanks once again in advance for this!" 

A small mumble in response, Maki goes to grab some of the used dishes. "Let's clean up first and then grab a clean apron."

"O-Okay..!" Once the girls take a moment to clean the counter and wash the dishes, Kaede places her stained apron in a laundry basket, before grabbing a clean one, along with giving Maki one. They start setting up the bowls, kitchen tools, and pot they'll need. Kaede also had a silicone heart mold tray she'll use, which makes Maki have to wonder how she still managed to mess up the shapes of them, anyway. As they're measuring out the ingredients, Kaede shows Maki the recipe for homemade chocolates she had been using. "And then for an extra ingredient, I wanted to add espresso powder... so they can be espresso flavored dark chocolates! Since Saihara-kun likes coffee and all...y-you think he'll like it?"

"...Probably." Is her nonchalant answer before she adds:  "I mean... I'm sure he will, I guess. Saihara is cheesy enough to like whatever you'd make him, anyway. ‘Because Akamatsu-san made it!’ or whatever he’d say..." Her imitation of Shuichi, and the crack of a smirk on her face, made it obvious she was joking.

"Heheh.... yeah, I could see him saying that, too. Then, yeah: I’m sure he’ll probably like it, then! Okay, so first things first: melting the coconut oil in the pot!" A nod from Maki to indicate her to go ahead, she watches Kaede head over to the pot to start emptying the bowl of coconut oil into the pot... after cracking the fire up way too high. 

".........." Immediately, Maki goes over to turn the fire down to a much lower level.  "Don't have the fire up so high, you'll burn the coconut oil."

"O-Oh...!" Blinking in surprise, she turns to Maki and gives a flustered nod. “Thank you, sorry!" Sighing, Maki makes sure to keep a close eye on her as she stirs the gradually melting oil. Once it is completely melted, Kaede transfers it to a mixing bowl. It would now be time to add the  cocoa powder, honey, vanilla, and sea salt to the mixture, along with the additional flavor of espresso powder. 

"Don't whisk it so hard, and not so fast, either. You're trying to make sure all the ingredients are incorporated together, not making splotches fly everywhere."

"R-Right...!" Since that was the exact mistake Kaede made with the practice chocolates. This time, she was whisking at a much better speed and pace, avoiding making a big mess and making her arm necessarily more sore. "This is already coming out a million times better than before. You really know your stuff, Harukawa-san!" She chimes, a smile widening on her face. "Did you already make some, yourself? Fooor..." Her smile turns more mischievous. "Momota-kun?"

"!?" As if hitting the nail on the head, Maki's face quickly turns red as she tries giving an intimidating glare to Kaede. "D...Do you want to die? Why would I want to give chocolates t-to that idiot... now don't say such stupid things..."

"Hahah, sorry, sorry! I was just teasing you!" Though that reaction told Kaede everything. She didn't want to risk teasing Maki too much, though, so she refrains from saying that, and instead gives her a softer smile. "Really though... thank you. I would've been so hopeless without you!"

"Hmph...." Pouting, she begins stroking her ponytail. "...Don't worry about it. Maybe next time you won't be such a disaster at it." Despite her blunt words, there wasn't actual annoyance in her voice. Maki truly didn't mind helping Kaede out. Even if she found the girl a bit much and annoying at times: she wasn't against considering her a friend. That, and she knows Shuichi feels the same way for Kaede. He was one of her closest friends, alongside Kaito, and Kaede to a lesser extent: so she wanted this to go well for them both, hence why she was secretly happy to help. 

Chortling in response, Kaede continues mixing until the chocolate mixture is fully incorporated with no lumps left. She carefully pours the mixture in the silicone mold before placing them in the freezer. "Alright, there we go! Can't wait to see how they'll look..!" In the meantime while the chocolates begin to harden, Kaede and Maki take that time to clean up the kitchen. Around half an hour later, Kaede checks on the chocolates. "Ohhh...!" By then, they had hardened. She takes the tray out of the freezer and sets it on the counter. Popping a chocolate heart out, she turns it around to give it a good look. The chocolate wasn't misshapen, lumpy, burnt... much better than how Kaede's first batch came out. "Harukawa-san, look! They came out perfectly! We did it!!" She cheers, putting it back in its slot before cupping Maki's hands. 

"Ah, hey-!" Flinching in surprise from the sudden contact, she just rolls her eyes and sighs. "Yeah, yeah... though it was mostly just you, Akamatsu. I just made sure you wouldn't make the kitchen look like a disaster, again."

"Ahaha... well, still! I wouldn't have been able to do this without your help. Thank you so much...! Now I feel even more confident giving these to Saihara-kun tomorrow." Now all she would need to do is pack them in a chocolate box and give them to Shuichi. Nervous excitement was already building up in her for tomorrow. Will it go well? Will he accept her chocolates... and her confession? Kaede was normally not on to think of a worse case scenario, but even she couldn't help the anxious feeling bubbling up in her if everything doesn't go right. "So, ah... wish me luck! H-Heheh..." She nervously rubs the back of her head. "Not to scare myself or anything, but who knows how tomorrow will go, you know...? And if it's alright with you... I'll want to tell you how it goes afterwards, too."

"Well... if that's what you want. I don't mind. Though... don't act like it could possibly go wrong, or whatever. Saihara's never outright said it, but: I bet he's hoping to get chocolates from you. So... yeah: good luck." And for a moment, a hint of a smile appears on Maki's face.

"Harukawa-san...." Smiling warmly, she could feel some of her nervousness seeping away. "That's right... I just have to believe that it will be okay. I'll make sure it does! Thank you so much...! Okay, then I'll be sure to tell you how it goes..!"

With that, Valentines Day arrives the next day. Kaede had told Shuichi to meet her in a quiet area of campus after school this morning, without telling him the exact reason why. While Shuichi was curious, he thankfully didn't persist, much to Kaede's relief. Though her being unusually more nervous around him during class probably gave an obvious hint as to what the reason may be: Shuichi still didn't want to assume anything... even if he's hoping it's for the exact reason Kaede wants to see him.

Once classes were over for the day, Kaede immediately headed to their meeting spot: an area on campus that was a bit off the path, but was quiet with no one really around. She wanted to give him chocolates in a quiet area where no one could be nosy. "Okay... looks like I made it first. Hggh..." Cupping her arm, she can feel the nervousness kicking right back up as she stares down at the ground. ("Come on, Kaede, don't get nervous already.. he hasn't even shown up yet!")

"...san.."

("Like Harukawa-san said: don't like it could possibly go wrong. A-And if even she thinks Saihara-kun may like me back...!")

"...san? Akamatsu-sa...."

She shakes her head, completely unaware of the soft voice from behind calling out to her. ("So come on, be optimistic! It will go well! Just believe in yourself!! When he arrives,  I'll... I'll give him the chocolates, and tell him how I fe-")

"Akamatsu-san!"

Pouting, she swiftly turned around and was about to yell at the person who dares interrupt her- "Geez, what is it, can't you see I'm busy he-?!" Before finally noticing who it was, gasping. "Ah! S-Saihara-kun!!" At his understandably confused reaction, she gives a few frantic bows. "S-Sorry, I didn't notice you there!"

Blinking, he gives a reassuring shake of his head and waves his hand in the air. "A-Ah, it's, um... it's alright. Hi... I'm sorry for taking a moment, I hope I didn't keep you waiting."

"No, no, you're fine! I literally just got here myself, so you're not late. But yeah, hey! Thanks for being willing to do this! I hope it wasn't too sudden a request..."

"Ah, not at all! I don't mind. It seemed like you wanted to tell me something important, so..."

"Y...Yeah..." Before she begins, Kaede takes a quick moment to look around. It was still just them around here, just as she hoped. A soft exhale, she looks back up at the boy. "...Okay, so! You've probably... already guessed why I called you out here, but... still. There's something I... wanted to give you, Saihara-kun. It's in my bag: one moment..." Trying to ignore the increasingly rapid pounding in her heart, Kaede reaches into her backpack to take the box of chocolates out.

"!" Shuichi's eyes widen when he sees it. "Oh! That's...!" He is presented with a heart-shaped chocolate box, with a white bow wrapped around it. 

She bows slightly as she holds the chocolates out to him. "F...For you, Saihara-kun: Happy Valentines Day...! I-I... made them, myself!"

"Ahh? You... made these? For me..?" A soft, surprised gasp leaves his lips as he stares down at the box of chocolates. Shuichi knew the pianist was normally not allowed to cook. So for her to not only give him chocolates, but ones that she made, herself...  "......." A blush starts to creep onto his face. So his prediction was right, after all... he was surprised, but so happy and relieved. "Akamatsu-san... thank you..." Finally, he gently takes the box of chocolates out of her hands. A shy, yet bright smile appears on his lips. "I'm flattered you would want to give me homemade chocolates..! If it's okay, I would love to try them right now."

"Of course…!" Standing back up straight, she smiles bashfully at him, a soft blush on her face. "And yeah, that's totally fine! I hope you'll love them, Saihara-kun...!"

"I'm sure I will, since Akamatsu-san made them, after all! H-Hehe..." 

"Hehe...!" She couldn't help but giggle with him, recalling how Maki said that he would say something just like that. Though it really did make her happy: to hear that Shuichi was confident he was going to like her chocolates. He beckons her to walk over to the nearby tree with them to sit down. Shuichi places the box on his lap before opening it up, an amazed hum leaves his lips when seeing how nice the heart-shaped chocolates look. 

"Ohh… These look very nicely made. Alright, let's try one..." Picking one of the pieces up, Shuichi pops it into his mouth. "Mm..." He takes a moment to savor the flavor, a delighted hum emitting from him. Kaede watches him in anticipation, eagerly yet anxiously awaiting his response. Once he's finished the piece, he looks at Kaede with a smile and an approving nod. "Akamatsu-san, these are so good...! Just as I thought, I love these.” 

"!!!" Seeing he loved it, her eyes light up and a smile widens on her face as she clasps her hands together. "Yay!! I'm so glad to hear that, Saihara-kun! They're espresso flavored dark chocolates.”  She eagerly informs. “I thought, since you like coffee, why not add that additional flavor to them? And Harukawa-san helped me with this, too, since I was a complete disaster trying to make them myself."  She chuckles sheepishly, rubbing the back of her head. "So it's honestly thanks to her that these turned out much better than I ever could've made them on my own..."

"Ohh? Espresso flavored, I see... so that's why there was a coffee taste to them. I'm so honored you took that into consideration, Akamatsu-san... they taste absolutely amazing."  He smiles softly, giving an intrigued hum. "Ohh, Harukawa-san did, huh? Haha, that was sweet of her to do. But still, it was mostly your hard work that made the chocolates come out as tasty as they did, yes? So I think you should give yourself some more credit... and say, rather: with her help, they came out even better than they already would have, even if you did make them on your own."

"S...Saihara-kun...." A light blush appears on her cheeks. It was always things like that: the sincere, kind things Shuichi said... that made her fall for the boy in the first place. "Th-Thank you for having so much faith in me like that... makes me very happy to hear."

“Of course..." Shuichi picks up another piece and eats it, savoring it just as much as the first piece. Kaede made these for him.... even if she normally doesn't cook, she went out of her way to make homemade chocolates or him. The more he's reminded of that, the more his cheeks heat up and his heart thumps softly in his chest. And for a moment... "......." He wondered if he should ask this, but decided to go for it, a nervous exhale leaving him before he spoke up. 

"S-Say, um..... Akamatsu-san? I hope this is not an, um... strange question to ask, but: are these....ah....friendship chocolates?"

"!" Kaede's eyes widened in surprise at his question. "Ah...!" Even though she knew it was coming, she didn't expect him to ask so directly like that. "N-No, it's not strange! I'm just surprised you just came out with it, haha. But, um..." Now it was the moment of truth. The nervousness from before was quickly kicking back into high gear. She was going to say it... she was finally going to say how she feels, once she confirms that these chocolates were completely intended to be romantic. Taking a few deep breaths to keep herself calm... she looks back at him and shakes her head. "No: they aren't friendship chocolates. I... when I made these for you, the intention was... romantic. Th-They are... romantic chocolates."

"....!" Shuichi freezes at her clarification. "A...Ah...." He let out a breath he didn't even know he was holding in. He was nervously anticipating what kind of answer she would give. That part of him hoping so badly that his assumption was wrong. "R...Romantic chocolates?" 

"Yes.... so that's why I wanted to do my best to make sure these chocolates came out great. Since I wanted to make... um.... the guy th-that I... that I like, happy." She chuckles shyly, feeling her cheeks heat up again. "I... really like you, Saihara-kun. U-Um: like, like! Since I have a r-really big crush on you and all, a-and!! Wanted to finally tell you that through these homemade chocolates...!" And then once she finally got that out, she hangs her head low, wanting to hide the only worsening blush on her cheeks. The embarrassment she was feeling over stammering her confession out quicker than she had hoped aside... a big wave of relief washed over her after finally telling the detective how she feels. And now it was time for the most nerve-wrecking part of all: awaiting his response. 

"........." Shuichi just stares at her, too shocked to form an immediate response. His eyes are widened and a deep blush crosses his face. "Ah. A-Ah..." She likes him.... Kaede, the girl he truthfully has been crushing on badly in turn, likes him: like, likes him, as she stated. He could feel his heart bouncing around like crazy in his chest, feeling so overwhelmingly happy right now. He heard exactly what he was hoping so badly to hear: just as much as he was hoping these were not platonic chocolates. "You like...me...? H-Had a crush on...me? Oh..." He stares down at the ground, one hand to his chest as he gives a few deep breaths. Kaede was brave enough to confess her feelings... so he wanted to give her a proper response back.  "....Akamatsu-san." 

She gave two nods in confirmation at his questions. And when he calls her name like that, knowing he wants her to look up at him. "......." Nervous as she is to, she brings herself to slowly lift her head back up.  "S...Saihara-kun."

"S-Sorry, I was honestly at a loss of words for a moment. A-Ahaha..." He chuckles softly, bashfully scratching his cheek.  "I never thought that... you'd feel that way about me. And in all honesty, when I asked you if these were platonic chocolates... I was really hoping you would say no. I-I hope that's not selfish of me. Especially since it…. made me so happy that wasn't the case. Because... if there was anyone I was hoping to get romantic chocolates from... it  was from you."

"!" Kaede perks up at that. "R...Really? You were... hoping they wouldn't be platonic ones? And that... you were hoping they would be from me?"

"Yes..." For a moment, he hesitates when suddenly moving his arm, wondering if he should do it… before he dares to bring his hand towards Kaede’s to rest it gently on top of hers. It makes a soft gasp leave her, Shuichi ready to move his hand away if it was being too forward. But seeing she doesn't move her hand away, nor looks uncomfortable... he keeps it there before continuing. "I wouldn't have cared to get them from anyone else but you. Since.. since I..." Even if he knows she feels the same, he still feels his face heat up. Then with a soft exhale, he tells her: "...I feel the same, Akamatsu-san. I-I... like you, too. And for a long while, I have. So... I'm so happy that you return my feelings." He goes to intertwine their fingers just a bit... before giving her the warmest smile she's ever seen on his face.

"Saihara-kun...!" She feels her face turn redder when he intertwines their fingers together. And to hear it back: that Shuichi returns her feelings as well. "I...you...!" Relief washed over Kaede... before an overwhelming amount of happiness started bubbling in her. And before she knew it, Kaede lunged forward to wrap her arms around his neck, pulling him into a hug.

"W-Woah...!" Shuichi yelps out in surprise from the sudden hug, his other having quickly secured a grip on the box of chocolates so that they wouldn't fall off his lap. Once he made sure they were secure on his lap, he gave a soft chuckle and shyly wrapped his arms around her to return the hug, cheeks turning a darker shade of red. "Ahaha.... Akamatsu-san..."

"H-Hehehe... sorry, I'm just... so happy! That the guy I like... likes me back!! I was so nervous... but now I'm so relieved!" She laughs, burying her face in his shoulder for a moment to stifle her giggles. The biggest, brightest smile was on her face. He returned her feelings.... he likes her back... The more she processed this, the happier she felt. She couldn't have felt any happier that she took that risk to make these chocolates for him and confess.

Shuichi gives her a soft squeeze in the hold, closing his eyes and just sighs so happily. She felt so nice to hug... he almost didn't want to let go of her. "I'm so happy, too... probably the happiest I've ever been."

"Me too...!" And for a moment they continue hugging like that, Kaede not wanting to leave his warm embrace anytime soon either... but eventually, they break away, Kaede going to sit back down in her spot. "S-So um! I guess that means we're... dating now, huh?"

"Dating..." Even just muttering it makes him flustered. "Hehe... y-yes, I suppose that does mean that, huh? Homemade chocolates from my...g-girlfriend. Thank you so much again..." For a second, he smiles at her... before deciding to lean in and place the softest kiss to her cheek. "I-I ah: hope that was okay to do..."

"!" Kaede uttered a surprised noise at the peck, making her cheeks heat up again before she giggles and nods her head. "O-Of course! You're my...b-boyfriend, after all! H-Hehe..." Humming in content, Kaede gently leans against Shuichi. She feels a gentle breeze brush through them, closing her eyes for a moment to enjoy it. She felt so content, wanting time to just stop for a moment. The guy she likes, she loves: was now hers... and she is his. "Sh...Shuichi-kun. Can I call you that? Um, I've never really been in a relationship before, so sorry if I'm a bit awkward at this at first, but: I promise... I'll be the best girlfriend I can be for you. One that will make you happy... and always make you feel loved."

"Ah..." His heart soars when she calls him by his first name. And hearing just the amount of sincerity in her tone couldn't help but make him chuckle, finding it so cute: finding her so cute...  "You're so sweet.... though you've always been such a caring and loving person who always makes me happy whenever I spend time with you. And... I promise to do the same. R-Relationships are just as new for me, too, but... that just means we’ll be able to experience what one is like, together. I will make sure to be nothing but a great boyfriend to you, too. You deserve to feel just as happy and loved, Akamatsu-san. A-Ah, well.. if you're going to call me 'Shuichi-kun'....th-then: K...Kaede-san..." Even just uttering her first name makes his cheeks red, but felt so nice. 

"Mmhm... please call me Kaede..." She hums, nuzzling her cheek against his shoulder as she goes to wrap both her arms around his arm. "...Shuichi-kun...." She opens her eyes back up halfway. Then turning her head to look up at him, she gives  him a look just spilling with warmth and love. "...I love you..." 

"Kaede-san..." A quiet sigh of awe leaves him when seeing the look she gives. A look that would be reserved just for him. He couldn't feel any luckier... and in turn, he gave her a look and smile just as warm and loving, one hand going to gently cup her cheek.  She loves him... it felt so nice to hear. "...I love you, too. I always will." 

"Hehe... me too...." She nuzzles her cheek against his hand, sighing so happily. "....Shuichi-kun: ....let's kiss...." Kaede slowly leans her head closer to his. "....If that's okay? I really want to..."

"....Of course." He begins to slowly lean in as well, his thumb gently stroking her cheek. "...I'd love that more than anything." 

"I'm glad... Then.... And as their eyes slowly come to a close, shifting slightly so that Shuichi wraps his free arm around Kaede's waist, and Kaede now wraps both her arms around his neck once more... they close the distance in a soft kiss. A soft hum emits from them, loving how nice the other's lips felt. She could taste a hint of the chocolates on his lips as well, which made her muffle a small giggle. Kaede's heart was pounding so hard in her chest, giving his lips several smacks during the kiss. It makes a delighted sigh vibrate through Shuichi, one of his hands proceeding to rub small circles in her back. Her first kiss with her new boyfriend... she wanted to indulge as long as she could before they would have to break away. 

And even once they do, their kiss slowly lingers... before Shuichi dares to take the bold initiative this time and draws her right back into a kiss. She happily welcomes it, feeling her heart bounce even more she feels him press his lips firmer against hers, with Kaede doing the same. One of her hands gets tangled in his hair, slowly combing through the smooth black locks. This kiss is longer, deeper... and full of much more love packed into it. When they break away, they softly pant as they stare lovestruck at each other, both of their faces flushed red. "Th-That... felt nice..."

"Yeah... it really did...." She continues stroking his hair, Shuichi nuzzling his head against her hand as he utters a content hum. "Today... couldn't have gone any better. Not only did you enjoy your chocolates, but now you're my boyfriend, too! Hehehe I can't wait to tell Harukawa-san the great news!"

"Hahaha.... and I guess I'll tell Momota-kun as well. I did wonder why he told me 'Good luck' before I left to come meet you here..." He chuckles. "But yes, I truly did, Kaede-san. Ah!" Picking a piece up, he offers her one. "I know you made these for me, but I would love to enjoy them together with you."

She chuckles at that, not surprised Kaito knew exactly why he had been called to come here by her. Then when he offers her one of the pieces, she blinks in surprise. "Oh! Well if you'd like to: sure, thanks!" She takes the piece, and plops half of it into her mouth. And just to tease him... with the other half sticking out of her mouth, she bops her head forward, gesturing him to come closer while muttering: "Mm, mm!"

"Wha-?!" Face blowing up in red, Shuichi starts flailing his hands. "W-W-Wait a minute, th-that's-!! I-I mean I ah, I'm not saying 'no', b-but-"

"Hehehemmph!" The chocolate stifling her laugh, she finishes it completely before she starts laughing even more. "I-I was just teasing you, Shuichi-kun, hahaha! But were you really going to be up for it? Woah... Shuichi-kun is bolder than I thought!"

"Ah... o-ohh, geez! Kaede-san!!" He huffs, blushing even more in embarrassment as he gives her arm the lightest bap... before he starts breaking into laughter, too. "V...Very funny! Hahah...!"

"Heheh...!" She gives him a playful nudge to his arm, before they continue to enjoy more chocolates together. She still couldn't believe how well today went. With Maki's help, the chocolates came out great, Shuichi loved them... and realizing he loved her too when she confessed. Now she felt silly for having doubts, and couldn't feel anymore grateful that she was just worrying over nothing in the end. She already couldn't wait to get back home and play a song that expresses the amount of happiness and love she feels for the boy next to her. And maybe, she thinks to herself: she'll play it for him one day, too.

[hajimes-erect-ahoge]

Postmortem- Chapter 19

The boys and girls go for a fun trip!

ao3

Ouma tossed and turned restlessly in bed, finding himself unable to fall back asleep after his body decided to rudely awaken him for no good reason at all. Insomnia had always been rather common for him during the killing game, and waking up from the simulation did nothing to alleviate this problem. At the very least, not being able to sleep meant that he would be able to avoid whatever nightmares his mind had maliciously decided to subject him to. But after having experienced night after night of fitful slumbers, Ouma’s sleep deprived mind had betrayed him and craved nothing more than a few hours of peaceful shut-eye.

Taking note of how it was half past four in the morning, Ouma belatedly wondered if it was even worth it to try and get any more sleep. Soon enough, alarms would be ringing throughout the entire apartment complex, signaling the start of the day long before the sun had even risen.

The girls had apparently set up a whole entire camping trip for themselves, even going so far as to contact Team Danganronpa for transportation and such. Last night, Tojo had so graciously decided to inform the boys of said trip, asking if they wanted to tag along. Having nothing better to do and nowhere else to go, they accepted, not knowing that it would require them being ready to go this early. But despite the obvious inconvenience to their sleeping schedules, the boys did as they were told, preparing to wake up bright and early.

Not only was Ouma not a fan of waking up so early, but he was not necessarily too fond of the outdoors either. After the “insect meet and greet” during the simulation, he never wanted to see another bug ever again. But unfortunately for him, he didn’t have much say on this matter as it was already decided that everyone would be attending the getaway. Although Ouma could hypothetically refuse to go on said trip, he would be left alone in the apartment complex all by himself for who knows how long… It was a lose-lose situation, but at least by going on the trip he could spend more time with Saihara instead of being bored and lonely.

Ouma allowed himself to recollect the events of the past few weeks, the memories of his first official date with Saihara still fresh in his mind. After they had arrived at the apartment complex, soaking wet and shivering, they couldn’t help but laugh at the sheer ridiculousness of what their first date had been. It may have been silly, and nonetheless chaotic, but Ouma wouldn’t have it any other way. 

Saihara felt the same way, enjoying the other boy’s company regardless of how hectic it may be at times. The whirlwind and mystery that was Kokichi Ouma was ever so intriguing to Saihara, luring him in with every word he spoke and every lie he told. He wanted to be the one to uncover that mystery, to understand the reasoning behind Ouma’s each and every action, regardless of how minor or major said action was. But above all, he wanted to protect the other boy from any sadness or harm that might come his way, even if it meant putting himself in danger.

Although they were as far away from danger as they could possibly be, that didn’t eliminate the trauma of being put through a killing game simulation where the excruciating pain of death and losing the ones you care for was as real as ever. Saihara was acutely aware of the fact that Ouma intended on hiding his suffering, smiling through the pain as if nothing was wrong. But he knew better than to believe Ouma’s lies by now, instead offering him a shoulder to cry on in any time of need.

Normally, Ouma wasn’t too fond of the idea of someone being able to see through all of his lies, but he could make an exception for Saihara. In fact, when it came to Saihara, he was actually glad that he could see through a majority of his lies. It led to a playful banter between the two, creating a never-ending game of cat-and-mouse in which both participants were eager to participate. While Saihara’s ability to see through his lies had led to some situations in which he was uncomfortably vulnerable and had to face his emotions, Ouma still found himself craving to be closer and closer to the other boy, slowly taking off his mask of fake smiles and presenting to him his true feelings. The thought of doing so may have been scary, but having Saihara by his side made him feel like he could do anything.

Although he would probably never voice these thoughts aloud, Saihara would be smart enough to eventually figure all of this out, had he not done so already. Not only was he incredibly observant, but his knack for figuring out the truth behind Ouma’s lies led to an unspoken understanding between them; Ouma felt comfortable displaying vulnerability in front of Saihara, and both of them knew this.

Mulling around these thoughts in his head, Ouma decided to rest his eyes for a few moments. It couldn’t hurt to sleep for a little while longer, he supposed…

~~~~~~~~~~

Just as he had settled into a peaceful slumber, the sound of an obnoxiously loud alarm blaring sounded throughout the bedroom. Being a light sleeper, Ouma woke up immediately, cursing the universe for its awful timing. He felt Saihara stir besides him, a surprising feat given how heavy of a sleeper he was. The movement then ceased, Saihara once more curling up under the covers as Ouma observed him, sitting upright.

“You two slept in the same bed again?”

Glancing over his shoulder, Ouma witnessed a groggy-looking Momota eyeing him suspiciously as he made his bed. 

“Duh! It’s easier to kill someone in their sleep, after all!” Ouma tried to sound as chipper as possible, but he couldn’t help the edge of tiredness that crept into his voice as he spoke. “Figures I would have to spell that out to somebody as stupid as you, Momota-chan!”

“Hey, I’m not stupid!” Momota protested, defending himself. “And I’m not an idiot, either! I know you were lying about trying to kill Shuichi just now... Something’s going on between you two and I’m gonna get to the bottom of it!” He asserted his statement confidently, pointing an accusing finger at Ouma.

“Nishishi, good luck with that!” Ouma taunted, sticking his tongue out at Momota.

“What are you two yelling about…?” Saihara spoke quietly, his voice laced with drowsiness as he now sat up in bed and looked at the other two boys. 

There was a slight frown prominent on Saihara’s face, making him look even more adorable than usual when coupled with the fact that his normally tame hair was sticking up in random directions. Realizing he was staring at Saihara just a bit too much, Ouma abruptly looked away. Momota looked away as well, feeling guilty for waking up Saihara in such a rude manner.

“S-Sorry, Shuichi… Didn’t mean to wake you up there…” Momota apologized sheepishly.

Saihara hummed softly, followed by a quick yawn. “It’s okay… I would’ve had to get up sooner or later anyway.” He offered a quick smile in reassurance.

“Well if my sidekick is okay with it then I’m okay with it!” Momota grinned, before glancing at the clock. “We should probably get going soon… Don’t wanna keep the others waiting for too long!”

Saihara nodded in agreement, “Yeah… We better get ready soon, then.”

“Dibs on the bathroom!” Momota declared, running off to go get ready first while Saihara and Ouma got ready to pack their belongings.

At least, that’s what Saihara intended to do before he felt a pair of thin arms wrap around him from behind.

“Ouma-kun…?” Saihara was almost completely out of bed until Ouma pulled him back in, causing him to land on the mattress with a soft thud.

Regaining his bearings, Saihara opened his mouth to chastise Ouma but froze when he saw the look on the other boy’s face.

Rather than wearing an expression of mischief, Ouma’s face was blank as he snuggled up next to Saihara, wasting no time in getting comfortable in bed once more.

“Stay with meeeee…” Ouma mumbled into Saihara’s shoulder, warm breath tickling pale skin.

Saihara absent-mindedly ran his fingers through Ouma’s tousled locks, sighing softly to himself.

“You know I’d much rather stay in bed with you, but we made a promise to the girls and I don’t want to keep them waiting-”

“Then let them wait.” Ouma said firmly, pouting.

Saihara chuckled, peering down at Ouma. “You know we can’t do that…” He paused for a moment, gathering his thoughts. “I promise I’ll cuddle with you while we’re on the bus.”

Ouma immediately perked up, trying to hide his excitement as he looked up at Saihara with big puppy dog eyes. “Promise?”

“Of course.” Saihara slowly sat up, pulling Ouma up with him. “Now let’s go get ready, okay?”

“Fiiine…” Ouma pretended to pout, but Saihara could still see the warmth dusting his cheeks.

~~~~~~~~~~

The bus was already ready and waiting for them outside of the apartment complex, the tired boys and girls slowly approaching from a distance. As they all walked together, the boys unmistakably noticed Chabashira glaring at them, presumably for ruining their original plan of having this be a trip for the girls only.

“Stupid degenerate males…” Chabashira mumbled under her breath, which went unheard by the boys.

Akamatsu approached her, a tentative smile gracing her lips. “Lighten up, Chabashira-san!” She encouraged, though Chabashira’s mind seemed to be elsewhere.

“Nyeh… There’s no use trying to cheer her up when she’s like this…” Yumeno emerged from Chabashira’s other side, weakly reasoning with Akamatsu.

“I-I see…” She frowned, as being unable to remedy the situation disheartened her. Nonetheless, she kept a bright spirit. “Well if there’s anything I can do to help don’t hesitate to ask, alright?” Akamatsu gave a firm smile, more confident in her efforts this time.

Much to her surprise, Chabashira nodded, flashing her a half-smile. “Mhm! Thank you, Akamatsu-san! I apologize for worrying you!”

“No worries!” Akamatsu grinned, feeling satisfied at last. 

After a few more moments of walking, they arrived at and boarded the large bus. The interior of the bus was furnished with fuzzy and comfortable looking cushions, as well as air conditioners lined along the ceiling. It wasn’t particularly hot where they were currently located, but as they drove south the weather would continue to grow warmer, warranting the use of the air conditioners. 

The bus was large enough so that everyone could occupy their own seat if they wanted to, though the students that were romantically involved with one another chose to sit with each other, Ouma and Saihara being no exception. The smaller of the two had practically draped himself over the other, succeeding in flustering him. 

“O-Ouma-kun, cut it out! People are starting to stare…” Saihara pointed out as he noticed Harukawa glaring at them from over Momota’s shoulder. Their eyes locked, and said glare was replaced by a softer expression, presumably one of sympathy for Saihara as he had his chaotic boyfriend to deal with.

“But you promised you would cuddle with me!” Ouma practically wailed, drawing even more attention to them.

“I will! Just… hush. Please. You’re causing a scene.” Saihara whispered, trying to de-escalate the situation.

Wordlessly, Ouma proceeded to give Saihara his personal space back, even if it was only a little bit.

~~~~~~~~~~

The next few hours passed by at a decent pace, most people opting to sleep to pass the time. Despite claiming that he would never fall asleep and miss out on snuggling with his beloved, Ouma dozed off soon enough, though Saihara didn’t mind. But as they began to approach their destination, Ouma awoke, half-heartedly chastising Saihara for letting him break his promise. 

Currently, the two were enjoying the peaceful silence that existed on the bus before the chaos of what this trip entailed would erupt. Saihara pulled out his phone, trying to check the weather in their location after wondering how hot it would be where they were. Unfortunately for him, the weather app wouldn’t load due to poor connection.

“Want me to try?” Ouma offered, taking out his phone as well. Without waiting for an answer, he went ahead and opened up the weather app on his own phone.

“Wait… What was that?” Saihara asked confusedly.

“Hmm? What was what?” Ouma responded, pausing his movements.

Saihara pressed the home button on Ouma’s phone, scrolling past the apps so that he could get a clear view of his lock screen.

“Your lock screen…” Saihara wondered aloud, “What is that?”

Noticing the puzzled expression on Saihara’s face, Ouma immediately burst out laughing.

“It’s a meme, Saihara-chan!” Ouma explained, though the perplexed look on Saihara’s face persisted.

“A meme?” Saihara repeated.

“Oh my god…” Ouma replied in awe, “Don’t tell me that you don’t know what a meme is!”

“I, uh… Sorry?” Saihara chuckled lightly, apologizing nonetheless.

After making a bold declaration to help Saihara become “more cultured”, Ouma spent the next few minutes showing him a variety of memes to broaden his understanding of the term. Although Saihara couldn’t say that he understood them, he had to admit that Ouma’s tenacity was admirable.

Looking out the windows of the vehicle, Saihara noticed that the area they were in was densely packed with trees and sparsely populated with other people. Suddenly the bus drove into a large lot, coming to a stop after parking. After being nudged by Amami, a tired Akamatsu stood up and announced to everyone that they had arrived at their destination. A collective groan from a majority of the bus signaled the group’s displeasure at having to wake up from their naps, but they otherwise cooperated. Gathering up their belongings, they one by one stepped off the bus and into the unwelcoming heat.

Uncomfortable with the unusually hot weather, Ouma began fanning himself rapidly with his free hand in a feeble attempt to fend off some of the heat. Though it did help to cool him down momentarily, the long term benefits were nonexistent, especially as he began to walk and carry his bag with him.

Observing his surroundings, Ouma noticed that the area seemed notably empty, almost as if they were in the middle of nowhere. It was a mystery how the girls even managed to find this place. As the bus began to drive away, the reality that they would be stuck here in the overwhelming heat practically indefinitely was beginning to settle in.

“Saihara-chaaan…” Ouma complained loudly, grabbing the attention of a few others around him as well. “It’s too hot… I can’t go on anymore…” While it was true that he was being dramatic, there was a hint of truth in his words as his pace began to slow down, leaving him trailing slightly behind Saihara and the others.

Saihara gave a fond smile, mildly amused by Ouma’s theatrics. “Here.” He pulled a water bottle out from the side of his bag and handed it to him. “Make sure you stay hydrated. Our campsite should be nearby, so you can rest soon.”

“You want me to drink water?” He gave a disgusted look, but accepted the drink regardless. “Who do you think I am?” After taking a quick sip, he handed it back to Saihara. “I would never drink something as plain and boring as water.”

“Right…” Playfully rolling his eyes, Saihara accepted the water bottle and placed it back in his bag. “Just try to keep going a little bit more, okay?” He gave Ouma a soft yet encouraging look, a gentle expression that was only reserved for him dressed on his face.

“Yup! I feel totally better now that Saihara-chan took care of me! What a doting boyfriend!” Ouma exclaimed, causing Saihara to flush bright red as well as attracting Momota’s attention.

“What are you yelling about, Ouma?” Momota questioned suspiciously before noticing Saihara’s flushed face, causing him to worry. “Woah, Shuichi, your face is really red! Do you need some water or something?”

Saihara stole a glance at Ouma, who was smiling innocently while he was being fussed over by Momota. He sighed.

“I’ll be fine…”

~~~~~~~~~~

A few moments later they arrived at their designated campsite, taking the time to set up their tents and set down their belongings. The tents were large enough to fit two or three people, allowing everyone to keep the same sleeping arrangements that they maintained back at their apartments. Naturally, Ouma slipped off to go explore rather than helping to set up the tents, given that physical effort, or effort in general, was not necessarily something he enjoyed.

He didn’t stray too far from the campsite, keeping it vaguely in his sight to ensure that he did not get lost. Aside from the obvious fact that there were many trees, bushes and rivers, Ouma unfortunately noticed that there were a lot of bugs. A quick shiver ran up his spine as he noticed a particularly large spider crawling dangerously close to him on the side of a tree, loosely triggering his fight or flight response as he jumped away. 

Ouma had never liked bugs, plain and simple. Especially not after the “insect meet and greet” during the simulation. Although it had been his idea in the first place, he never actually intended to get trapped in Gokuhara’s lab with a plethora of bugs, ultimately causing him to go unconscious. Shaking off the unpleasant memories and deciding that he had explored enough, Ouma turned to return to the campsite when he bumped into something tall and solid.

That’s weird… I would’ve remembered if there was a tree right behind me.

Rubbing his head and blinking wearily, Ouma hardly registered what was right in front of him.

“Gon- I’m so sorry!” Gokuhara’s voice sounded from in front of him, distinct and unmistakable. “Is Ouma-kun okay?!”

“Gonta…?” Ouma lifted his head to look at Gokuhara, but all he registered was a fuzzy image of said boy. “I’m fine… Geez, what were you even doing there anyway?” 

“I saw Ouma-kun looking at bug friend and wanted to join! Ouma-kun really does love bugs!” Gokuhara stated excitedly, eyes sparkling.

“Uh, sure… That’s one way to put it.” Ouma grimaced, trying but failing to fake a smile. “So I’m guessing you came out here to look for bugs?”

A flash of sadness flickered across Gokuhara’s face, brief yet still tangible. 

“Gonta was told his memories were fake…” He stared at the ground, expression faraway and unreadable. “But bugs make Gonta so happy! And-”

“Yeah, yeah, big guy. I didn’t ask for a sob story.” Ouma cut him off, dismissing his emotions. He knew where this conversation was going; One thing would lead to another and before they knew it they would be pouring out their emotions to one another, which was certainly not a conversation he wanted to have. Being semi-honest around Saihara was enough, but Gokuhara too? Ouma wasn’t sure he could handle that as well.

Not after what he did to him.

No, he didn’t deserve a happy ending with Gokuhara. Having Saihara accept him and forgive him was enough, he couldn’t burden another human being with his true intentions and emotions.

“Hello? Ouma-kun?” Gokuhara’s surprisingly gentle voice brought him back to reality, Ouma not even realizing that he spaced out.

“Well, that’s enough nature for me today! Guess I’d better head back now! See ya, Gonta!” Ouma tried excusing himself, but found himself being ignored as Gokuhara stared off into the distance with a determined expression on his face. “...Gonta?”

Much to Ouma’s surprise, Gokuhara took off into the woods, most likely running after a bug of some sort. He contemplated whether or not to leave him, but his worry got the better of him and he decided to chase after Gokuhara and bring him back to the campsite.

After running for much longer than he thought he would have to, Ouma finally found Gokuhara, who had the palms of his hands cupped together and was intently observing whatever he was holding. Just as Ouma was about to speak, a red dragonfly fluttered out of Gokuhara’s hands who, rather than giving chase, said his goodbyes to his new friend.

“Oh, Ouma-kun! You came!” Gokuhara cheered excitedly. “Did you see-”

“Yes, I saw your new bug friend.” Ouma stated after catching his breath. “Come on, let’s…”

Ouma cut himself off this time, staring into the expanse of the area around them. He must’ve ran farther than he thought, having found himself on the edge of the woods. Looking past the last few trees and bushes, he saw...

“Ouma-kun? Is everything okay?” Gokuhara tried to grab his attention, to no avail.

Snapping out of his daze, Ouma turned his attention back to Gokuhara, who was anxiously hovering over him. Rather than responding, he simply smiled to himself.

This trip was about to get a whole lot better.