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A/N:

Hey everyone! Author here, what's good? Hope you all are well! I disappeared for a bit ack-

If you are coming from my THH fanfic, you know what's about to go down. For those who don't, I shall explain!

I will put everyone's free time events in these specific chapters, and you can read through whichever character - Dante interaction you want! The choice is yours :) I also added some free time events for Hajime Hinata because he doesn't have any in the game!

If a character event has the phrase "FREE TIME EVENT IN LATER CHAPTER", it means the free time event would be better in another chapter. Just better to space things out :)

If a character event has the word "COMPLETE!", there are no more free time events.

If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask! :3 ENJOY!!

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🤸AKANE OWARI🤸

I was walking around the island when I noticed Akane working out, in her own way, on the beach. 

"Yo, Akane! Are you free right now? ", I waved as I came closer, the gymnast stopping her movements to wave back with a large, charming grin.

"Well, I am a bit busy, uh... you."

"Hm? You?"

"What's your name again?"

"A-Ah, it's Dante. Dante Cortopassi? Is my name that hard...?", I mumbled that last part. Kuno came into view, chuckling to herself.

Don't take it personally, buddy. Also, I'm getting deja vu here...

"Oh, right! That sorta sounds like your name. Sorry, sorry. I keep forgetting somehow. I'll remember it easier if you keep givin' me food or somethin'."

"That sounds like bribery, dear. I feel like that's a little demeaning, I would rather have you remember me for my charm~"

"...Oh well. Later.", Akane shrugged, walking away from the beach. I stuttered, seeing Kuno laughing her ass off while she floated around.

"H-Huh? Wait, hold on! We only just started talking, miele!"

"Well, even so...", Akane stopped in her tracks with a sigh. "I'm not interested in someone who looks like they have low fighting power. Just from lookin' at you, you're probably around a 2. I don't deal with anything lower than trash, y'know?"

"But why are you focusing on fighting power? That doesn't matter in gymnastics, right?"

"Gymnastics? What are you talkin' about...?"

"You're the Ultimate Gymnast, yeah?"

"Oh, that. Setting records and winning competitions is easy money!"

"Oh, you do it for money. Valid."

Get that bag.

"Yeah, that's right. I've been doing it since this really persistent old man convinced me to give it a try. I've been runnin' and jumpin' all over the place ever since I was a kid. You know, it's, uh... What's it called again? That thing where you run nonstop through a bunch of cluttered areas."

"Ah, you mean parkour?"

"Ah, that's it! That's exactly it! That's what the old man called it, too! Well, it doesn't matter what it's called. When you got people chasin' ya, you just naturally end up doin' parkour when you're runnin' away from them. You should try chasin' me sometime. I seriously won't get caught!"

Should I be worried that she's running away from random people chasing her?

Um, yeah, definitely. But it doesn't seem to be the right time to bring it up.

"Well, you are very talented, miele~ You have me swooning~!", I sighed dramatically. Akane simply blinked then began laughing. I started laughing along with her, the vibe around us very comforting and easy.

💸BYAKUYA TOGAMI💸

I was making my way to the central park, hoping to find some clues on what the countdown was, but I found Byakuya beat me to the punch. He stood there, looking at the countdown deep in thought.

"Ah, Byakuya, how are you doing? Looking great today~", I winked. Byakuya turned to me with a raised brow, rolling his eyes a second after.

"Dante. let me ask you one thing."

"What, my type~?"

"Ugh... No, keep this up and I will be leaving you here alone."

"Alright, alright, continue."

"There's something I've been wondering for a while, and I'd like to purge that question from my mind. So let me ask you! What is your body fat percentage!?"

"... Oh. An odd question, sure, but I have not checked in a while. Last I checked, BMI was 31."

"Not checked in a while...? Are you saying you have no intention of understanding the ratio of fat stored within you...!? I swear... This is why I dislike commoners."

"C-Commoner...?"

Well, someone is a bit catty today.

"However, just by looking at you, I'd say that you're a nine...no, maybe an eight... Regardless, it's probably around one digit. Be grateful this is a tropical island. If you were somewhere less hospitable, you'd freeze to death."

"I-I see... um, I'll be sure to count my blessings tonight. Thank you, amico."

"Anyway, you said you are the Ultimate Actor...?"

"Ah yes, that is true... I miss being on set though, such a chaotic world centered around me~"

"I see... However, there is no need for you to be depressed about it."

"Huh?"

"...What's with that face?"

"Nothing, I just thought I was going to get yelled at again..."

"Hmph, how foolish. Do you really think I'd get mad about something like that? A person like me has a responsibility to watch over you weaklings. Besides...as long as I'm here, it doesn't matter what your talent is. As long as Byakuya Togami is in charge, you will all know peace."

"Wow, so admirable...~"

"The Togami Corporation is famous worldwide, but it will grow even more rapidly under my command... You should feel lucky that someone as talented as me is here. Just believe in me. If you do, everything will turn out fine."

"Hm, I understand. I will trust you, Byakuya."

So this is Byakuya Togami, the Ultimate Affluent Progeny... His demeanor and sense of responsibility is quite the attractive trait...~

Careful, he may sense your thoughts and ditch you~

"Just make sure you don't get in my way. A commoner should know their place and stay put. However...if there is anything troubling you, I don't mind if you rely on me.", after saying that, Byakuya gallantly strolled away.

👾CHIAKI NANAMI👾

I was trying to get to the hotel restaurant when I saw Chiaki standing by herself, staring at the device in her hand that wasn't even on.

"Chiaki?"

"..."

"Uh, amica?"

"..."

She's staring off into space... Try poking her.

I slowly made my way to Chiaki and lightly poked her cheek. Chiaki blinked a few times then turned to me with an awkward smile.

"...Ah, sorry. I was getting a little sleep."

"While you were standing, with your eyes open? Impressive! But... Have you not been sleeping well? I feel bad for waking you up now, but you do need to rest somewhere more... comfortable?"

"Hmm, when I'm gaming I tend to forget about sleeping. Sometimes I even forget to breathe."

"Uh, you need to breathe though..."

"Plus, I keep having nightmares. I had a bad dream the other day so I've been a little scared."

"A nightmare, you say? Well, maybe if you tell me about it, I can visit you in your dreams and protect you~!"

"Hm, I don't think you can."

"A-Ah, I see."

Pft, denied real quick.

Hush.

"Well, I'll tell you anyways, since you asked... it was a dream about "Trio the Punch"."

""Trio the"... what?"

"The statue at Jabberwock Island changed into a bald old man with a thin mustache. It's probably because that game also takes place on a tropical island. The more I think about it, the more this situation feels like that bizarre action game. We might eventually end up turning into sheep."

"I see, "Trio the Punch" is a game. What kind of game is it? More importantly...you must really enjoy games, huh amica?"

"Hm, how should I put it? I like it, but gaming is my life. Or maybe life is just a game? Either way...that's all the more reason why killings shouldn't be allowed. It's not a game if you're not having fun. It doesn't mean anything if you just focus on winning or losing."

"Ah, how insightful...Even though I don't play games much, I think I understand. It doesn't mean games always have to have happy endings, but you should get something out of beating them!"

"There might be weird games here and there, but there are ways of enjoying those, too. That's why bizarre games are fun. You can beat them as long as you do your very best."

"As expected of the Ultimate Gamer~! I would probably just give up on a game like that, I don't have much patience for bizarre games..."

"But...to tell you the truth, there's one type of game that I'm not really good at."

"And that is?"

"... I won't tell you."

"Oh, that's okay, amica! Maybe someday, just not today.", I shrugged. Chiaki blinked, flipping her cat hood over her head, and walked away with a small wave of her hand.

Does she have a reason for not telling me? Eh, it's not too important.

🔪FUYUHIKO KUZURYU🔪

FREE TIME EVENT IN LATER CHAPTER

🐹GUNDHAM TANAKA🐹

As I came to the ranch to get some fresh air to clear my head, I noticed Gundham looking around the barn. 

"Gundham! What are yo--!", as I got closer to the breeder, Gundham shoved hisbandaged hand out to stop me in my tracks.

"...Whoa there. It's better if you don't get any closer than that. An automatic barrier is generated independently of my will."

"Ah, my apologies...?"

This guy is strange...

I think it's cool!

Whatever floats your boat.

"Which reminds me, there's something I haven't asked you yet. It doesn't matter that your temporary name is Dante Cortopassi. Tell me your true name, fiend."

"Uh, my true name?"

"Hmph, so you're not foolish enough to tell me so easily... Then tell me your hidden name."

"Sorry to say that I have no such name, amico."

"Then what is your special ability?"

"Uh, my Ultimate talent? I am the Ultimate Actor, the one and only~"

"No, that is not what I meant."

"Then... what do you mean?"

"Do you have supernatural abilities?"

"Ah, no, unfortunately."

"Hmph, so you really are just a mere human. I suppose it can't be helped... Then let me talk to you about something that even a mere human can understand. Ask me anything."

Hm, anything? Then...

"However, it's free for you to ask, but make sure you try not to understand. After knowing my true terror, it'll be quite a sight to see how long your sanity will last."

Try not to understand...? Then what is the point of asking?

"Well, What do you do with your free time usually?"

"So you're interested in my lifestyle? Fine then...I shall reveal a portion of that to you. Training, human hunting, craft spell components, etc... Despite my looks, I'm quite the busybody. However, managing my website takes up the bulk of my time."

"Websites?"

"Obviously, sorcerers around the world are waiting to see my research results. Of course, my website has been magically enchanted so only the chosen ones can view it. A mere human like you will only be able to access the dummy site called "Exciting Breeding Journal"."

"Hm, well, can you show me the enchanted website, for me~? I'd love to learn more about you, caro...", I smiled. Gundham looked a little shocked, then slowly covered the lower half of his face with his scarf with a huff.

I also want to see cute animals...

Can't say I disagree.

"Then...I will make sure to show you. Well, if we ever get out of here, that is.", Gundham stated.

"Ah, that would be wonderful~"

"Well? Are there any other questions?"

"Um, What's your favorite... food?"

"Hmm...you've certainly hit the mark well. I'm fond of the orange melon that bears the face of the devil."

"Orange mel... Are you talking about pumpkin?"

"There is no other food as high in nutrients nor as versatile to a variety of cooking methods... More importantly, its seeds are the most effective food source for my Four Dark Devas of Destruction. However, you must carefully wash them, dry them in the sunlight, peel off the thin skin, and lightly fry them."

"That sounds like a difficult process."

"Is there anything in this world that isn't difficult? Pleasure and pain are irrelevant as long as you have a purpose, and take action for that sake."

"Hm... That is true, you are so wise, Gundham~", I sighed with a smile. The breeder seemed proud of himself, puffing his chest out with a boastful laugh.

❌HAJIME HINATA❌

I had been hanging out next to the beach, just enjoying the night sky, when I heard someone coming over; Hajime was coming closer to me, a curious look on his face.

"Ah Hajime, buona serata..."

"Dante, what are you doing out here alone?"

"Ah, stargazing!", I pointed to the millions of stars in the dark sky.

"Oh..."

"Would you like to join me? You seem tense. A little star time helps..."

"Hmm, alright.", Hajime sat down next to me on the bench, looking up at the sky silently. I looked back at the sky with a happy sigh.

"You know...", Hajime began. "I would have thought you wouldn't like doing something like this?"

"And why is that?"

"Well, you seem like the kind of guy who wants more activity during the 24 hours of your day. Stargazing just seems so... tame."

"... True, I used to hate sitting like this."

"Huh?"

"I couldn't stand sitting still when I was younger. I would work constantly, practicing my acting while taking walks, listening to my lines over and over while doing homework... I hated not doing anything."

"That sounds intense..."

"It was. But... something changed."

"What changed?"

"... Maybe I will tell you next time, amico. I would love to tell you more, you are obviously obsessed with me...~ But not now. Let's enjoy the sky for now, yeah?"

"I-I am not obsessed...!"

"Ahaha, alright, alright! Whatever you say~!", I chuckled. We both went silent as we kept staring at the sky. Hajime seemed relaxed, and I definitely felt more calm.

👘HIYOKO SAIONJI👘

 (A/N: I have decided to keep the relationship between Dante and Hiyoko more sibling oriented. No flirting here. Reason 1, Hiyoko looks and acts like a child / childlike. I hear you saying now "But Fuyuhiko also looks a little like a child? Are you going to imply a relationship between him and Dante?" and the answer is also no (I'll explain later). Reason 2, Hiyoko just doesn't strike me as the type to like someone like Dante. At least not in a romantic way. It makes more sense that they just confide in one another and for Hiyoko to see Dante as someone who is also a child celebrity similar to her. Reason 3, I just don't feel comfortable depicting Hiyoko liking Dante that way. It's a personal feeling.

NOW, to Fuyuhiko. To me, Reason 1 and 3 in Hiyoko's part are the same for Fuyuhiko. Reason 2, though, is different. !!SPOILERS FOR CHAPTER 2!! Seeing as Peko would be executed later on, and it is heavily mentioned that Fuyuhiko was in love with her, it just feels wrong for Dante to swoop in after the love of his life just got yeeted out of existence😅 I know some of you might be disappointed with that, but I have learned that if I am not comfortable with what I write, it is basically shit. Idk how I will write their friendship, but I am working on it.

Thank you for your time and understanding, BACK TO THE CHAPTER :3)

I had just left the hotel after eating breakfast to see Hiyoko hanging around on the stairs.

"Oh, hello Hiyoko!", I waved at the traditional dancer as I sat down next to her.

"Hey Dante. I've been thinking this ever since I first met you, but will you get mad if I say it?"

"I have a hard shell, do your worst!"

"I see. Then I'm gonna say it. Um, um...I've been thinking this ever since I first met you... You have a shady-looking face, and you look like the kind of person who's too lazy to try hard. And not only that, I think you're so hopeless for following me around like some lost puppy!"

"Hey, if you think I have a shady looking face...well, I guess I can let that slide, I can't change my face... But I am not a lost puppy!"

"Ugh...", Hiyoko's face twisted into a grimace.

"...Huh?", Hiyoko suddenly burst into tears, scaring me a bit.

"Waaaaaaaaaaaaaah! You said you wouldn't get mad! Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!"

"O-Oh mio, I am so sorry... I'm sorry I yelled at you. Please don't cry anymore!"

"Ugh...hic... Then...if you're really sorry, can you buy me the thing I like?"

"Something you like...?"

"*Sniffle*..."

"Oh, alright... What do I have to buy you?"

"Umm...it's shaped like a star, and it's small, and it's cute, and it's sweet..."

I think she means Konpeitō...

"Um...do you mean Konpeitō?", Hiyoko nodded with a sniffle. "Alright then, do you want me to go buy it right now?"

"...Just so you know, you won't find that in the supermarket.", Hiyoko suddenly smirked.

"There isn't?"

"Jeez Dante...you're such a pushover. You totally promised me without realizing it was impossible...and you even got tricked by my fake crying!"

"I'm an actor, I can tell those tears are as real as ever..."

"Jeez, you're so hopeless. I guess I'll go easy on you and make you bring me something else. Let's see... Go steal Sonia's panties for me."

"I am not a degenerate."

"Bitch, bitch, bitch... Bring me Gundham's earring then. And you better steal it! I don't want you to borrow it!"

"You don't really want it, do you...? You're just trying to make me suffer... What cheeky one I have decided to converse with today... Just let me bring you a different snack. I'll get you something you like."

"Aww, but they don't have anything cute there. I gotta have something cute like...flower candies made with refined Japanese sugar."

Where am I going to get refined Japanese sugar...?

Better start looking...

"Ah, but...just as I thought, you really do like traditional Japanese candy, huh?"

"Well, it's so elaborately made that it's practically art. They're so small and sparkly and cute... I love them so much. Foreign sweets are made with too much sugar, so they're perfect for uncultured idiots like you!"

"H-Hey, I'd say Italian sweets are wonderful, especially bomboloni! You have insulted me..."

"Whatever, it probably has a crap ton of sugar on it, one bite would probably make you diabetic!"

"*Gasp* You take that back!"

"Make me!", Hiyoko jumped up and sprinted away while cackling, me following suit.

🎸IBUKI MIODA🎸

I had been taking a walk on the beach when I heard someone running towards me. I turned quickly to see Ibuki stopping right behind me with a huge grin.

"Ah! Yes, yessss!"

"What...?"

"Jeez, hurry! Hurry up and choose me!"

"Uh, choose you in what?"

"Um, um, were you ever in any school clubs?"

"School clubs, huh... As far as I can remember, no. Acting took me away from school often..."

"Hyaaaaha! That's a major bingo!"

"What is?"

"Well, isn't it obvious!? You should be part of Ibuki's music club from now on! For a while, everyone thought music clubs were outdated because the rock-and-roll boom was dying off... But now, music clubs are super popular with boys for some reason! We should jump on the bandwagon, too!"

"I mean, I can sing a little but instruments are not my strong suit, cara."

"Nooooo problem! You can just pretend you're playing an instrument while a music track plays in the background."

That's not something the Ultimate Musician should say...

"But even if I'm pretending... I don't think I would sell it without some passion behind it, no?"

"Everyone starts at that point. As long as you feel the love, there's no problem."

"Ah, now love is something I can get behind...~"

"That's the spirit! Jamming out is sooooo much fun! You'll be so popular with the ladies, hunks and the enbies! Lots of people go out with guys who pretend to be musicians all the time! By the way, Ibuki thinks guys who don't like bands are narcissists, so she doesn't like them!"

That...isn't something the Ultimate Musician should say either...

"Yep, yep! Now choose the musical instrument you wanna use! Ah, Ibuki has dibs on the guitar, so you can't use that!"

"Then...I will go with the drums!"

"That's awesome! All right, it's decided! Drums are great 'cause you can just hit 'em to the beat, and you don't even need to know how to read music! As long as you can move your arms and legs independently of each other, even a novice can play them real easy!"

Every drummer on this planet would like to speak with this chick's lawyer...

"Now that we've decided on an instrument... Let's start with learning how to use a loudspeaker!"

"Uh, why?"

"What are you saying? It's a must-have item for live performances. It doesn't mean you just hold it and scream into it! If you don't put your soul into it, the loudspeaker won't respond to you! Gyahaha! Put your soul into it! Shout! Shout!", I was forced to do some weird training that didn't make any sense to me at all.

🔧KAZUICHI SODA🔧

I had wanted to check out the Rocketpunch market, seeing if there was anything interesting there. I found Kazuichi hanging around as well, checking out the energy drinks.

"Ah, Kazuichi, amico, how are you~?"

"Eh, not too bad but... Man, why did this happen...? We're on a tropical island, y'know? Surrounded by a blue sea, y'know? And there's plenty of ladies here, too. So why do we have to be involved in all this killing nonsense?", Kazuichi sighed.

Inspector Gadget over here probably doesn't have pure intentions, but I agree with what he is saying. If this was a normal school trip, it would've been really fun for you all...

"Man, and here I thought I was finally going to go on a school trip for the very first time."

"First time...? Didn't you go on one during middle school?"

"I was supposed to...but I ditched it. I, um, faked being sick and stayed home. Uh, well, I had a lot of reasons, but...my family is really poor. My classmates were pretty much a bunch of boring turds so I was like, "Who cares if I don't go to school?" But my old man found out later and beat the crap outta me."

"Ah, I see. I can't say I relate to your financial situation, but I didn't go on field trips either..."

"Huh? How come?"

"A free day from school was a day for filming or meetings or something else that had to do with work. But I still went to places, so I can't say I missed out. It must have been a little lonely, not going with your classmates."

"Eh, you get used to it a bit. My damn old man... He knew better than anyone that we didn't have any money... Ah, we run a bike shop at my place but it's seriously hard to sell bicycles these days. The only customers we get now just need a flat tire fixed or air pumped. But yeah, despite that, I'm the genius mechanic of my family! I can take a look if a bike or car needs fixing, and I can fix anything from kids toys to household appliances!"

"Wow~...that's pretty amazing, caro!"

"Well, I've been surrounded by junk and tools ever since I was born. So I just have a habit of taking things apart and putting them back together!"

"I see...so that's the environment the Ultimate Mechanic was raised in. Such insightful information...!"

"My old man is just hopeless though, so I'm always the one who's helping out at the shop... In fact...to tell you the truth, I was really excited when we first arrived at this island. Everyone here has pretty colorful personalities, but they all seem like interesting people... I was really looking forward to enjoying my youthful days here... Until all this crap happened. Dammit...it's my dream, y'know? I've always wanted to go on a trip with my friends and stuff. Oh wait, we're not close enough yet to call each other friends, huh?"

"Hmm, maybe not. But since we seem to have the same goal, maybe we can at least call each other comrades?"

"Comrades, huh...? Hehe...that sounds pretty awesome. I'm looking forward to working with ya, comrade!", Kazuichi extended his hand and I gripped it. I tried to let go...but for some reason, Kazuichi was glaring at me and... "...So Dante, who are you aiming for?"

"Aiming?"

"Isn't it obvious? I'm talking about the ladies! Depending on your answer...the alarm clock in your room may be modified into a time bomb."

"Hm, maybe I don't want one of the ladies. Nothing against them, they are all gorgeous... but maybe I am aiming for you, caro~?", I whispered the last part. Kazuichi quickly let me go, flustered.

"D-Dude, warn me next time! Your flirting is damn near deadly...!"

"Ahaha, I try~"

📷MAHIRU KOIZUMI📷

I was taking a walk around the island, trying to keep myself distracted when I heard someone call my name.

"Ah, Dante! Turn around real quick!", I turned and heard a click; it was Mahiru, her camera pointed at me for a second before lowering the device and looking at the picture. "Wow, your really photogenic, Dante. Yep, that sure is a nice pose."

"May I see it?", I asked. Mahiru came up to me to show the photo. It showed me looking back at the picture with a confused face. Although I looked surprised, I had to admit that I didn't look bad. "You take amazing photos, Mahiru! Hell, I wasn't ready and you still made me look good! And if you want more pictures of me, don't be afraid to snap away~"

"Just so you know...it's not like I want a picture of you or anything. I swear to every god who's listening that that's true. This...is just a record."

"What kind of record?"

"A record is just a record. I want a record that right now, we're all living together in this place..."

"Hm, I suppose that is true."

"It's pretty simple...but in this kind of situation, it's easy for us to forget that, you know? So I decided to make a record of everyone each day so we won't forget. That's pretty much the only thing I can do right now."

"Hm, that is a wonderful idea..."

Mahiru seems like a pretty solid person. I like her.

"But...taking pictures of guys isn't fun, so I guess it'll be fine if I only do that once every three days..."

"I-I see... I mean, you do you, Mahiru."

"More importantly, we've got this blue sea and white beach, but that weird stuffed animal just ruins it. No matter how beautiful the scenery is, if the subject's face doesn't stand out... Ah, I know. If you ever see Monokuma again, capture him. I can take pictures of Monomi just fine, but he sees what I'm trying to do every time. One day, I'll definitely capture him with my viewfinder, and I'll be world famous for landing such a huge scoop. Well then, I'm busy so I guess I'll see you later.", Mahiru quickly waved as she walked away.

Did I say something weird...?

Who knows?

💉MIKAN TSUMIKI💉

As I left the hotel, I saw Mikan sitting near the pool's edge. I made my way up to her and sat down. 

"Hello Mikan, are you doing well?"

"O-O-Oh! Hello, Dante...! I-I'm doing well... U-Um..."

"...Hm?"

"I-I'm sorry!"

"Sorry? For what?"

"I-I thought... You clearly looked like you were in a bad mood. D-Did I do something wrong again? Wh-What should I do? Um...would it make you happier if I took my clothes off?"

Whoa, that escalated quickly...

"Ah, no need for that Mikan, cara...!"

"You're right... You don't want to see me naked, right? Then, how about my money...?"

"N-Not that either..."

"Nggggh...I'm sorry..."

It's no use... I feel like if I start panicking, the situation is going to get even worse. All right, I should just calm down first...

"Cara, how about you tell me something... nice about your day today?"

"Talk? U-Um...um... Today is such a beautiful day!"

"Yeah, it is. The sky is very clear too."

"..."

"..."

"I-I'm sorry... Should I...take off my clothes?"

"N-No... you don't have to do anything like that..."

This is troubling... I guess I should start talking to Mikan about something she might get excited about...!

Talk to her about her favorite bandage type!

How would that work...?

Just trust me.

"Um, Mikan dear, What type of bandage do you like the most?"

"Bandage...? Let's see... There are a lot of different types these days. It's extremely convenient because there are waterproof types and sticky types... But I definitely like...non-elastic types the best. They're not too constricting...but they still firmly secure wounds!", Mikan went on to ramble a bit more, me taking the time to hear while watching her. She seemed so happy while talking, and her voice was soothing. Mikan stopped after a bit, getting shy again. "Ah...s-sorry. I...went ahead and started talking on my own."

"Don't worry about it. I'm the one who asked anyway and it was nice to hear you speak freely. Also...I feel like I got to know you a little more, cara~"

"Really?"

"Mhm. Well, I need to go back to my cottage to freshen up. Let's call it a day for now...", I stood up slowly, but Mikan held onto my shirt to stop me.

"U-Um! If it's not too much trouble for you, I would like to...talk to you again. It's been a while since anyone talked to me like this...so..."

"Oh, Of course! Any time~"

"Th-Thank you very much. Heh heh...hehehehehe...", Mikan stood up and skipped away, giggling to herself. I felt myself smile, walking away soon after.

🍀NAGITO KOMAEDA🍀

As I was walked down the beach, I noticed Nagito sitting at the edge of the shore, staring out into the distance.

"Nagito, mind if I sit with you?", I called. Nagito turned to me with a carefree smile, patting the space next to him. As I sat down, Nagito squinted at me.

"Dante... are you feeling tired?"

"Huh? No, not at all."

"I see...then it's okay. I thought you looked a little tired or something. I thought something was worrying you... Ah, but it'd be weird if you weren't worrying in a situation like this.", Nagito laughed with a shake of his head.

Nagito is laughing in a carefree way. But seeing him laugh like that was enough to distract me from my worries.

"Wh-What? Is something wrong?", Nagito asked. I shook my head with a smile.

"No...how should I put it? I was just thinking about all the ways you've been helping me and Hajime so far. So thank you, amico."

"No...I haven't done anything to receive your thanks. But...for someone like me to be useful to you, and to even receive your words of gratitude...makes me happy."

"You're being too hard on yourself~"

"I mean...my talent is just having good luck. It's not like it comes from hard work, and it's not like I can use it to do anything amazing. Regardless of how lucky I am, or if that luck even exists, I'm just too unimpressive to truly matter. Haha, unlike you guys."

Why does he sound so happy about that?

"But your talent is still pretty cool, you know?"

"That's not true! You have a much better talent than me! I mean... you have been accepted into Hope's Peak Academy."

"I know. If you'd like, let's try to see if there are any other talents that work for you, to show you how much variety you have! What about the Ultimate Flirt?"

"Ahaha, I guess that's an obvious one~"

"Let's see... What about the Ultimate Fashionable Student?"

"I mean, I like that one~!"

"Hm... what about the Ultimate Heartbreaker?"

"Hey, don't hurt me like that~"

"Hey, don't take it seriously. It was just a little joke! Hmmm, then... How about the Ultimate Moss Hair?", Nagito grinned while pointing at my green hair. I blushed slightly with a pout.

"T-That's not an ability at all!"

"I know, right? I just wanted to see your reaction. Hahaha!", Nagito laughed joyously, me following suit with an embarrassed chuckle. "But it's going to be fine... I'm positive you are brimming with hope, no matter the talent."

He's totally messing with me... But...thanks to him, my feelings are lighter than they ever were. Could it be...? Was that his goal all along? If so...maybe he's a good person after all~ I need to get to know him better from now on. I hope we get to understand each other better, even if it's just a little bit at a time~

⛓NEKOMARU NIDAI⛓

Nekomaru and I were hanging around the ranch, the team manager stretching while I sat on a hay stack lazily.

"Hey Nekomaru. There's something I've been wondering about ever since we first met...", I began.

"Hm? You've been thinking about me that much!? I see...then I guess I must accept it. C'mon, BRING IT ON!", Nekomaru stopped his stretching and started walking towards me.

"H-Hey, why are you walking toward me? Didn't you just tell me to come to you...?"

"What? I was about to offer to do "it" to you..."

What's "it"...?

"...What's "it"?"

"Fine then...so, what were you going to talk about?", Nekomaru stopped and took a step back.

"Well... I wanted to ask you why you're just a team manager...?"

""JUST"!?!? Are you mocking the management profession!?"

"Oh, never, amico!, I didn't mean it like that! It's just, you seem to be athlete material anyways, I expected you to be a player..."

"If you yearn to master something, you will naturally require a manager's help. Countless records in this world would not exist without managers! The bond between a top-notch athlete and their manager is one that cannot be severed!"

"Bond..."

"Until now, I've been with various athletes... Yeah...looking back, there were all splendid athletes... I had a baseball player who got an offer to join the major leagues while he was still in middle school... A figure skater who performed six and a half spins... And a tennis player who managed to win a 36-hour long match... They...were all people who surpassed me."

"Fascinating..."

"Now that you understand why managers are needed. As long as you know that.... I'll lead you to victory, no matter the match!"

I'm not much of a sports guy anyway... But more important, he's got a lot of confidence. And...I can understand how proud he must be to be a team manager. Just as I thought...Nekomaru is an amazing guy~! My heart is soaring!

"Hm? Did you just praise me in your heart?"

"Huh? How'd you know!?"

"When you and I face each other like this, we are one in both body and mind. I CAN EASILY SEE WHAT YOU'RE THINKING!"

"Whoa, you get even more fascinating by the minute~!"

"Hehehe! I'm used to being showered with praise! I'm so popular that there are teams all over the place fighting over me!"

"I can see why...~"

⚔️PEKO PEKOYAMA⚔️

Peko and I were hanging out around the statue in the park... However...

"..."

"..."

It's nice that we're hanging out but we're not really talking about anything... Maybe I should take the first step!

"Hey Peko, do you like kendo?"

"Yes."

"..."

This conversation isn't progressing! Say something else!

"Well... Is your house a kendo dojo?"

"...Sort of."

"S-Sort of?"

"Is there something wrong with that?"

"Not at all, I was just wondering."

Peko's stare is really intense... It might be best if I change the subject. Let's see... A topic that probably won't offend her too much...

"Peko, what level are you?"

"...Are you talking about my kendo level? I don't have one."

"Eh?"

"Dojo trainees typically earn levels corresponding to their years of training. However, I have no need for that."

"How come?" Don't people in your profession normally aim for that kind of advancement?"

"I have no such aim. My destination has already been decided. Protect who I must protect, cut who I must cut. That alone is the original purpose of the sword. Wielding a blade in its truest sense in my aim... That is my reason for existing. To achieve that....I have no use whatsoever for meaningless levels determined by arbitrary rules."

I see... Peko isn't just a typical kendo athlete. She truly is the Ultimate Swordswoman...~ So admirable, graceful and genuine...! How could I ask such a foolish question about levels...? I need a smack to the head.

"Forgive me for such an odd question, I...don't really know much about kendo. But I do know that you are very admirable, like a samurai!"

"A-Admirable...? You say such strange things...! N-No one has ever said that to me before... Um...well...th-thank...", Peko blushed heavily, turning away from me. I smiled, feeling accomplished. " ...Never mind. However...because of the path I've chosen, there are things I've lost as well. Warm, irreplaceable things..."

"What did you lose...?"

"...Fluffiness."

"Fluffiness...?"

"There are things that are warm, fluffy, and soft... The cat that came to visit the dojo, my childhood friend's dog, and even the finch I had as a pet... But all animals can sense my menacing presence and run away from me. I just...want to touch their soft fur and fluffy feathers to my heart's content..."

"I see... That's really sad, actually.", I sighed, feeling a little bad for the swordswoman. "...Oh, then what about asking Gundham if you can touch his hamsters the next time you see him? He might be able to help you out. He probably knows a way to keep animals from running away from you."

"I see... You do have a point. Also, since his hamsters are called the Four Dark Devas of Destruction... They might not get scared of me and run away... I should look for Gundham right now.", Peko stood up abruptly, turning to me with a small bow. "Dante, thank you for your advice. If you'd like...please come talk to me again. Good bye.", Peko sprinted away, desperate to touch something fluffy.

How cute... She might hit me in the head with her bamboo sword if I said that out loud, hehe~

👸SONIA NEVERMIND👸

Sonia and I were walking down the beach together in serenity, the slight breeze helping us stay cool.

"I must say, this island is truly a wonderful place. The weather is calm and the sea is blue. Truly a perfect resort setting!", Sonia beamed.

"That is very true, however..."

"Oh, did I say something strange?"

"Not at all. I was just thinking that you're very calm right now. And don't get me wrong, being calm is great in these situations, but.... Sonia...are you really not worried about our current situation?"

"Of course I am worried, and I am also angry. Jeez, this is not something to joke about!", Sonia huffed.

"Pardon me, principessa, for my lack of insight..."

"That is alright... However, what happens next depends on us. As long as we do not kill anyone, this will all be fine."

"That's the very valid attitude..."

"Besides...I have come here to learn about this country. I would understand if this were my homeland, but in this case, this land is foreign to both of us. I do not intend to kill anyone...and I do not intend to be killed easily either!"

The way she said that sounded a little dangerous. But her sentiments are understandable.

"Anyway, let's forget about killings and cooperate with one another so we can return home quickly. If you have any good ideas, feel free to let me know. I shall also do my best to think of something, too."

"Of course~ When I speak to you, Sonia, I somehow feel really positive and optimistic. Thank you."

"Hmhmhm, such an honor. Raise your head. There is no need to worry!"

"Ah, that remind me, what was the name of your country? It was...the Novoselic Kingdom, right?"

"Hmhmhm, it sounds as though you finally remember."

"Well, it's not a country I've ever heard of..."

"Yes, that is understandable. It is often overlooked by cartographers. Our Novoselic Kingdom is an extremely small country, and governed by an absolute monarchy. Though the population is small, our economy is thriving, so we are not in dire straits at all. For generations, the royal family has protected the kingdom and its people from neighboring countries. Thanks to that, the people still have a complete trust towards the royal family. And also...wine and chocolate is one of our country's hidden specialties."

"Oh my, they sound delicious by how your eyes are sparkling~ So since you're the princess of that kingdom...does that mean you live in a castle? Oh how I dream of living in a castle...!"

"Of course! The royal family has been living in the royal castle for over a thousand years! Though it may be old and small, the castle is truly a wonderful, historic building. Of course, it's easy to get lost in our subterranean labyrinth, and our barracks are fully equipped as well."

"So castles really do have those!"

... Are castles really that nice?

Huh? What's wrong with castles?

They serve no purpose to the general population, they take millions to build and desperate people are the only people who would drop that kind of cash on a glorofied old brick! They'll even kill for those dumb buildings and have a bunch of butlers kiss their asses all day!!

Whoa, someone doesn't like castles...

... Forget it.

"Um... Anyway, is it all right if I ask you something as well?", Sonia cut my thoughts off.

"Hm? If I can answer it, ask away."

"Who did you have your heart set on initially, and who do you intend to switch to later?"

"... Pardon?"

"This situation is truly similar to "The Story of Seven Men and Women"! I believe it is a standard tactic to start wavering and swapping partners!"

"Ah, I have seen that drama before...! But I don't think I am doing the same thing...?"

"But it is! It starts off really upbeat, but then it gets really serious, I never expected that to happen... It was all like, "Seriously, what is going to happen?" I just could not take my eyes off the screen! Momoko's feelings at the time were... My goodness! So intense!", ...I continued to listen to Sonia extensively talk about Japanese dramas while I commented with her.

🍴TERUTERU HANAMURA🍴

At the hotel restaurant, TeruTeru and I were having lunch alone.

"I was wondering, TeruTeru... Do you specialize in a particular style of cooking?"

"Mmhmhm...what a ridiculous question. Why would you kill the possibilities of your ingredients by limiting yourself to a specialty? Well, if you say so... I don't know if it's right to say all cooking is creative... Chefs have the right to be called "chefs" because they create dishes. It'd be simple for a true chef to create something from nothing!"

He sure has amazing confidence. I sort of understand Teruteru's uncommon passion toward his dishes!

"Anyway Dante, I've been wondering this for a while... Don't you think dishes resemble "that" a lot!?"

""That"...?"

"You know, "that"! It can only mean one thing--!", Before he could continue, I felt Kuno seethe in the back of my mind, quickly coming forward to use my hand and smack TeruTeru on the head.

"O-O-OWWWW!! I guess it's unavoidable. At least I know now that your body is pure."

"As much as I am a flirt, I am not about to act like a fool..."

"Well, if you ever decide to cook, you should know some simple advice! They say there's a fine line between cooking and... um, that!"

"I find that hard to believe, amico. I don't really want to think about it, but...don't tell me that's the reason you started cooking?"

"I see...that sounds plausible. After all, both actions appeal to a human's instincts. But to be honest, it's much simpler than that. I was destined to become a chef the day I was born... After all, my family's restaurant back home is a diner...*cough* I mean, a fancy, upscale restaurant!"

"Ah, I see. So you decided to become a chef as you were helping out your family's business."

"Helpin' out...? It weren't somethin' dat easy..."

"Did you just use an accent?"

"A-AH, no! Forget about it...!"

"Okay..."

"The rise of family restaurants... Constant attacks by cheap chain joints... The bullying from a rival store... A grief-stricken mother...and frightened young siblings who were born to different mothers... To stop that crisis, I ventured alone and competed in a cooking deathmatch hosted by the Shogun of Taste... .Juuuust kidding. A dirty tale of hardship like that doesn't suit an attractive urbanite like me! You'd rather hear me talk about my splendid and glorious life as a first-rate chef, right? Right?", TeruTeru laughed.

CHAPTER 5, END!