A Different Type Of Case

Important Tags (A List)

#Testimonial Evidence -> Random Rambles

#Relevant Evidence -> Writings

#Physical Evidence -> Art (drawings & sketches)

#Documentations -> Answered Asks

#Pancake Detective -> Personal Goro Akechi Tag, usually gushes but can also be random stuff, as long as it's related to Goro.

# 🥞📚 -> Ship Tag, mostly used for Goro & me but it can also be him and my sona

#Dancing Birds & #Lukanjakechi -> Ship tags, used for Goro and my P5 Sona

#The Jonkler -> Akiren / Joker (P5) Tag (Platonic F/O)

Band Of Thieves [Name] -> Other Phantom Thieves Tag (Platonic F/Os)

Tag list may update over time!

A quick reminder as I was asked what my stance on cc x cc is with Goro specifically...

“I’m sorry Nagito but… I don’t think that I love you anymore.”

The words hit hard. They stung. And it felt worse than the time where he had stabbed himself in the thighs… Even if it was within the simulation of the Neo World Program, it still stung badly. And if he hadn’t taped his mouth he would have screamed in said pain. Or at least someone would have heard him. But he would rather relive that moment over and over again than having heard that sentence. Was his worst nightmare coming true?

He had spontaneously lost his breath, his lungs being clutched by something and having a tight grip on his wind pipes. Not just that but it felt as if blood was dripping down from them, something stabbing them from within. It made him lose his balance, making him drop down onto his knees and desperately gasp for air. He processed it after a few more moments until it hit him, which was even choking him on the inside to begin with. Vines. And what was stabbing him? Thorns. And it was painful. He tried to say something, anything, yet it wouldn’t come out. He was already suffocating.

But even then it would soon switch from nonsense to gurgling when he felt the vines becoming bigger and bigger, slowly reaching up to his mouth. He couldn’t even speak any longer, no words coming out. His tongue felt the thorns grazing over them, slight scratches across it. And it hurt. Each scratch hurt more than the last. It had reached a point where he was holding his tongue in place, trying not to move it too much yet it made breathing even harder. His nose was letting out puffs of air as a result, a desperate way to cling onto his life. He had to breathe somehow. He couldn’t give in just like that. Although, it felt like the utmost torture. A part of him wanted to give in and just suffocate. But survival instincts took over and he was clutching ever so desperately.

One of his hands lifted itself up, the one in the flesh, as if trying to reach out for something. What was he reaching out for however? He didn’t know. Perhaps a desperate attempt to reach out for something or someone. Anything! Anyone! The tears wouldn’t stop flowing down, a sign of pain, mentally and physically. He wanted to scream but couldn’t. 

And then a muffled cough, his pupils turning down to see petals suddenly coming out of it. They were dropping down, right from his mouth and he was just staring at them, how they soon hit the ground… Until then, suddenly, he spit them out at once, a flower blossoming right through his mouth. It was bright, yellow and each of them had a star–like shape. He could only see it from the angle above of course so he was kind of guessing here. Yet he could see the yellow petals right then and there. They were growing from his mouth. Was this… No, it couldn’t be, but when he looked up, who was standing above him and looked down at him with this cold glare. Yeah, it was Ann, no doubt about it, their green gaze all empty and cold, as if looking at an ant in disgust. And what they had said ever so coldly and sharply, that they don’t love him anymore… It stung. It hurt. It hurt so badly.

And yet he should have seen it coming. Anyone loving him was too good to be true. After all, his parents hadn’t cared about him in the time he had been alive. His mother had never complimented him, his father never exchanged a meaningful word. And they hadn’t even comforted him when his own pet dog had been overrun by a truck. No one would love him. No one could love him. He knew that deep down. Eventually this would end. He knew that even his own partner would come to realize that, just how disgusting he was, worse than trash. He wasn’t worth worrying about. And therefore he wasn’t worth loving. It was pretty much the law at that point. Yeah… It was. It hurt but that’s how things had to go eventually… It was nice… While it… las–

“Nagito? Nagito!? Hey, Nagito! Wake up! Please, wake up! Nagito!” A sudden scream hit his ears, making him open his eyes very quickly. He took a deep breath, mainly out of reflex, and he was able to breathe. It was gone. The vine squeezing his windpipe was all gone. There were also no petals in his mouth, making it move freely. And his mind was clear, not suffocating either, and his view went from blurry to sharp in a few seconds, though also having to adjust to the dim light. 

And right above him was Ann, concern written all over their face. It was a contrast to what he had seen before his eyes, the opposite of cold and dismissive. They were worried, to the point they had their hands on his shoulders. Were they shaking him awake just now? Weird… His only response was letting out a half asleep “Huh…” as he needed a moment to adjust and clear his mind. Yet once he did it hit him, though he wasn’t going to say a word. At least not yet.

His partner let go of his shoulders finally yet their expression was only softening just a little. “Ah, finally! A… Are you ok?” They started asking. “You suddenly started to sweat and breathe loudly. Are you getting sick? Should I get Mikan to check up on you? If something is wrong then–”

He let them talk, but only for so long. Their voice was frantic, layered with a lot of concern. They couldn’t hide anything, no matter how hard they tried. But it wasn’t as if they were hiding something from him here. They were honest and right now? They were worried about him of all people. They could do better, choose someone else, yet in the end they’re wasting all their love on him. He couldn’t take it for granted… Right? He wasn’t, hence why he was doing his best to keep them happy. And yet that nightmare just had to slip through. And it felt real for a second. And it wasn’t completely inaccurate – He’d rather die than live with the knowledge that their love fizzled out.

But right now? He was just glad. It took him everything to not burst out in tears at random. He wasn’t the type to cry and he would tell himself not to in the first place. No, that was unnecessary. He had no right to cry. So instead he just lifted himself up, forcing them to back away for a second… Only to grab them in a sudden hug and bury himself into one of their shoulders, resting against it and just allowing himself to take them in…

“Huh? Nagito?” Ann asked, even more puzzled probably. But that’s fine.

“Just… Give me a moment…” He told them softly, his grip tight. He didn’t want to let go, he couldn’t. It was hard to believe but this? This was real. Despite everything this was reality. And he was grateful for it.

They had made significant progress so they stood up finally, heading to the entrance door… Only to see him standing there with a massive shark plush in his arms, covering up his face. And Ann? They couldn’t help but be in disbelief. Their first instinct was to ask if Nagito had decided to spend it on a whim or something. Then again, he had shown that he knew how to manage finances just fine, especially when it came to householding. It threw them back to Mahiru’s one off comment sometimes, her claiming that the guy with a bunch of luck would make a great stay–at–home dad. Well, he managed householding better than Ann but that was probably a low bar. And besides, his luck was usually off the charts so the explanation was probably rooted in that. 

That’s why Ann asked instead: “What happened now?” Even though they should be used to this they really weren’t. Probably because it always happened at the most random times which caught them off guard. Because it always happened so suddenly. There had to be an explanation for this. And that explanation will be absurd and it will catch them off guard again, something which should only be considered possible in fiction. Then again, a famous saying is that reality is stranger than fiction could ever be.

Nagito however let out a bit of a nervous chuckle at first, then decided to give out an explanation. “I just so happened to win this on the way home.”

“And that happened how?” It only answered so much.

“Details, details. Anyways–”

“C’mon. I’m used to it by that point.” How absurd could it really be? 

It took a bit of convincing yet eventually he did fess up, how he came into possession of this massive stuffed shark. It was simple – He was on the way home, the usual grocery trip. That’s obviously the normal part. However, by a bizarre chance he somehow tripped, dropping the bags. Yet just as he was about to get up he apparently slipped on something again while being accidentally shoved by someone which, weirdly enough, launched him forward and his head bonking right against a machine close by which then shoved out that plush out of nowhere. 

They weren’t even going to question how something like this could happen because it was their partner after all. And he was known for some bizarre luck. It sounded implausible and if anyone met him for the first time then yeah, it would sound like a made up story. But that’s the same guy who managed to survive a truck coming flying right at him from the sky and instead of being hit by it said truck hit the vending machine. And then the vending machine spat out lots of drinks, more than one person could handle. That’s the type of bizarreness his luck holds. Honestly? Any surreal story is true, as long as it involves being lucky.

Although… Now having heard that… Come to think of it, Nagito blocked his face with that plush and hadn’t moved it since. It made Ann raise an eyebrow, silently questioning what he was hiding, perhaps even distracting from. And when they were trying to get a closer look from the side… That’s where he started moving, making sure that the plush was still in view. They grumbled slightly, now maybe having a hunch about what is going on here. And they rolled their eyes as the two pretty much kept circling around for a little longer… Until Ann has had enough of it.

So they launched forward while asking a little louder: “What are you hiding!?” Yanking the plush finally away revealed the following sight: Nagito stood there with a sheepish grin but that wasn’t the worst part. No, that was pretty normal actually, as normal as one could get. The part which annoyed them a little was another, one he probably thought of hiding. And that was the injury on his face, how there was a bit of blood dripping down from the side. And they were staring in shock for maybe half a second before reacting immediately to it. “I’m going to get Mikan. You stay where you are.”

“Y… You don’t have to–”

“Don’t argue with me! This needs treatment right away!” In fact they were rather shocked that he had been heading home instead of having it checked out in the first place. Maybe it didn’t feel like a big deal to him but it was. Trying to distract them with something he won…

Well, they aren’t ungrateful, obviously not, but there are priorities. And Nagito’s health was a top priority of course!

Hence why their laptop was always on the coffee table, fully charged to be ready for an hour minimum. It depended on how much time they had to spare early in the morning. Even in dire times they were still a novelist first and foremost so their duty was to write, write, write. An inner duty, certainly, yet they couldn’t help themself. And it was lying there, begging them to open it and type away, like every morning. Its keyboard needed to be used as badly as their fingers needed to type away. Yet being trapped like this made it impossible. They knew exactly why Nagito had rolled them up with no escape – Because of course they would spend their sick time typing and doing nothing else. Even though they had explained it so many times to him.

“I’m fine! Typing while sick is nothing! In fact, it’s child’s play!” They had always said and kept saying it.

“You know I’m the last person to deny you honing your talent.” He began, this being a normal start of his sentence. After all, he had been obsessed with the concept of ‘Ultimates’ for a while despite having been declared an Ultimate himself. But having the ultimate luck was apparently lame. Regardless, if it had just ended there. What made this unusual was his stern face, his tone awfully sharp and serious, more than Ann had ever been used to. Probably because it was so rare to witness. That made the last part of his speech always hit extra hard. “But you can’t do that when only being at half capacity… At most. Besides, once you start writing, you refuse to get some rest.”

“Writing is like resting for me! I’ll be–”

“You can write as much as you want once you feel better. Now be good or I am forced to tie you up again.” Yeah, that actually happened. From handcuffs to tying them up to now trapping them within blankets. He didn’t hold back and would never. Some old habits die hard…

However, he wasn’t looking right now. So they could just try reaching it. A few words should be ok… That should be totally fine. Nagito can’t expect the novelist to not write for an entire day after all. That may as well be the equivalent of telling Ann to perish right then and there! And that was the last thing they needed nowadays! Just a few words… That won’t hurt… 

The keys want to clack to. The laptop wants to be turned on. Otherwise it’s just not a good morning for the device either! They can hear it, the ‘please’ the device is uttering…  They want it, so bad… So, so bad… Thus they had to try. 

They kept wiggling around, trying to break free. The problem wasn’t that they were rolled up but the amount of layers. They were already feeling pretty hot temperature wise but the blankets only made it worse. They were sweating like crazy in a matter of seconds. Sure, people say that a fever will disappear quicker if you sweat it out, but it was also uncomfortable. So there was even more reason to break free! And they could peel the layers off, blanket by blanket. It would just take a while. Yeah, that–

“Alright, tea is ready! I also ma–” But the voice then paused, Ann deciding to ignore it though for the sake of just wiggling out of the blanket layers. That only lasted for a few more seconds because they heard something being set down on the coffee table before they were grabbed instantly to stop wiggling around. “Ann! What are you doing!?”

“What does it look like Nagito!?” They huffed in response, responding without thinking. “I’m trying to get outta there!”

“Why would you–” Yet another short pause, then a quick ‘Oh’ before he resumed talking. “Right, that’s still here. I’ll put it away.”

The moment the brunette heard that they gasped sharply and in shock, turning their head to look at him in panic. “Put it away!? I need this! Just a few sentences! Please!”

“If I let you do that, you won’t stop. So nope, not happening.” And the stern tone again, as if he was scolding a kid right now. “Now lay back down.”

“I need to write though! You don’t understand!”

“You will survive a few days without it.”

“No I won’t!”

“Right…” Nagito of all people was rolling his eyes. That’s embarrassing. “I’ll be right back.”

“Wait don’t you dare– Nagito! Ey! Heeey!” But Ann was forced to watch it… How he just put their laptop out of reach. All because they were sick. Hah… Sick days were the worst days ever for Ann. They know that he’s doing this because he cares but not writing for a while… It just sucks. And he knows no mercy either. May they survive.

It was in the hallways of the building, just when Anja was about to head to their own lab after retrieving Leo. He had run off somewhere else and it was a hassle to find him. He was just running around as he pleased, sometimes in circles before jumping onto the next best thing. Yet he had calmed himself when spotting Anja and walking calmly next to them since. Well, until now when they came to a stop. It was when they had spotted Shuichi from afar, climbing up the stairs. He was on the basement level, wasn’t he? Though they were wondering what he was doing there they didn’t dare to ask. Mainly because the words were stuck in their throat when spotting him. And even if it was for a little while, though still too long to not stay detected, thoughts flew through their head. Before they didn’t take much note of him honestly, the time when he was still wearing his black cap. But since then? They noticed him more… To the point they were just staring like an idiot. Even though it wasn’t exactly an ideal thing to do, they fully admitted that. Mainly because of the circumstances they were trapped in… The Killing Game… And yet they just couldn’t help themself.

It was odd, especially since they usually didn’t take note of anyone like that. They still tried getting along with the others (well, they ran from Korekiyo and Kokichi is… Well, Kokichi) but no one sticks out like that. Not in a way where they would want to squeeze them or anything. Also like that Shuichi kinda looked— Oh what were they thinking damn it!? They’re such an idiot! 

Yet they nearly lost their breath when they heard his voice. And by that they meant that they held it, almost. There was just something about it which set them off too. But no, focus. Just answer a simple question! He didn’t say anything cool or anything! No need to get worked up over it! Deep breath… Very deep breath. It’s just a talk. Not like the two had never talked before or something! 

“Spaced out? In the middle of the hall?” He asked them, sort of. All they could do was nod, probably being a bit embarrassed. No, they were, to an extent. “That’s not the best idea.”

“I know. I just… Happened to remember something, yeah! That’s it!” But there was a ‘meow’, almost in protest, Leo’s meow. “Sorry about that, I didn’t mean to look.”

“It’s fine. I was just a little confused is all.”

A conversation which was cut short and should have ended there. And yet something just didn’t sit right. Ok, no, that’s kind of wrong. Anja wanted to draw it out somehow. They didn’t know why but they wanted to be in close proximity. Not too close, that’d be weird, but as close as they were allowed. And for some reason that thought excited them a little, enough to just… Just blurt this out all of a sudden. “Hey… Since you’re here… Do you have some time maybe?” For what though? It’s not as if they needed any help right now. They could find something, sure, especially with those many cats, but still… They had no reason if they really thought about it. And yet here they were, asking for his time…

“Yeah, I have some time. Do you need something?” Ah, of course he had to ask if they needed something! Wait don’t panic! Don’t panic at all! Why were they even panicking to begin with!? 

“Well, I was thinking… Erm… Right! Two eyes see more than one! Could you help me watch over my cats for a bit?” An obvious excuse. 

“Wait me? I’m sure someone else could be of better–”

“It’s fine! All you have to do is watch them and maybe play with them if they want to! Please!?” Ok now even Anja could tell that they were desperate. And Leo too because they could feel his stare right at them with those big, ‘ol green eyes… That or he was just curious about what was going on and why they were so insistent. 

“Well… Alright, I see why not.” The moment Shuichi said that they could feel how their face was lighting up. Ah, they were too excited right now! Wait, they shouldn’t be what they were thinking here!? Ah damn it! Damn it damn it damn it! He’s going to catch on and ask how weird they are and then– No, just stay calm. Ah yeesh! They are such an idiot.

And yet maybe them grinning wasn’t so bad. Possibly… Maybe… “Hehe, then let’s go. I bet they’re all waiting.” Yeah, just a bit of time… To keep calm maybe such an experience isn’t so bad. 

But why was Anja so desperate that it just had to be Shuichi? Maybe a coincidence? Or… Is this how it feels like to be– No! No no no! It’s nothing like that! Not at all! … Right?

Nagito Komaeda: “Hey, what a surprise seeing you here!”

And then she turns to us. Her gaze isn't exactly pleased yet the staring daggers aren't directed towards me. She drops it quickly however as soon as she notices me.

???: “Oh, it's not just you. Thank goodness.”

Nagito Komaeda: “Haha, you’re still cold to me, aren't you?”

???: “Hmph…”

Nagito Komaeda: “Hey, I don't mind. But don't let it out on him, ok?”

Nagito seems to take this girl’s attitude as if it's no big deal. I am freezing up a little though. She doesn't seem to take kindly to the both of us, or so I imagine.

???: “Fair.”

She then turns to me without another word, looking me right in the eyes. Her gaze shoots up a little, given that I’m at least a bit taller than her.

???: “I’m Ann Wolfsberger. Just call me Ann.  And you are?”

Hajime Hinata: “I’m Hajime Hinata. Nice to meet you.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Likewise.”

She doesn't sound enthusiastic about it. I swear that she just wants me gone as soon as possible.

Nagito Komaeda: “Ann’s The Ultimate Novelist and they're pretty impressive. Despite their young age they have already published 7 books. Rumor has it that they wrote their first novel trilogy in just 7 months.”

Hajime Hinata: “7 months!?”

Also they? Did I just- Oops. But Ann hadn't said anything. Maybe they didn't mind? I'm not so sure but I will watch it from now on. Let's trust Nagito on this one. He probably knows more than I do anyways.

Nagito Komaeda: “Ultimates are pretty impressive, aren't they?”

Hajime Hinata: “Yeah… But…”

I obviously knew that but this!? How would anyone pull that off!?

Nagito Komaeda: “It's pretty good too! People love it! I recommend giving it a shot when you have the time!”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Why are you doing the unnecessary gloating for me?”

Nagito Komaeda: “Oh c’mon. It's impressive in its own right.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “It’s nothing special. I just wrote what came to mind.”

Hajime Hinata: “I’m sure it took plenty of drafts…”

I’m just assuming, given how writers usually operate. But then again– 

Ann Wolfsberger: “Drafts? … They're pointless.”

Hajime Hinata: “Huh!? Does that mean that you…?”

Nothing was able to prepare me for that answer. 

Ann Wolfsberger: “Drafts are a waste of time. Time which could be spent preparing a new story.”

Hajime Hinata: “Right…” 

Nagito Komaeda: “Hey Ann, are you working on something again?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Why are you asking Komaeda?”

Nagito Komaeda: “Ouch… Still not calling me by my name? You're very harsh…”

And yet Nagito is very calm about it… 

Ann Wolfsberger: “I don't need a beta reader.”

Nagito Komaeda: “Haha, if you say so.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “If you don't need anything I would like to be left alone for now. I need to collect my thoughts.”

Hajime Hinata: “Right, sorry. We didn't mean to disturb you.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “It's fine, don't worry about it. See you then.”

And with that Ann leaves. She… No, they... I don't know how to put it.  A little weird? Then again, people say that authors have their little quirks here and there. However, I should be on my way and introduce myself to the others.

Rank 2

Ann Wolfsberger: “...”

Hajime Hinata: “...”

The silence is a little awkward. No, it’s more than just awkward, it’s unbearable. Not just that but there’s something about Ann’s presence that I can’t pinpoint down. It’s awfully tense.

Ann Wolfsberger: “...”

Hajime Hinata: “... So, uhm…”

Ann Wolfsberger: “What is it?”

The moment I open my mouth their glare is shooting right at me. I flinch. It’s so cold. I should choose my next words wisely or this might go south really quickly.

“Is there someone you’re seeing right now?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “What type of question is that?”

Hajime Hinata: “Ah–”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Are you trying to waste my time?”

Hajime Hinata: “No! No no no! I didn’t mean it like that! Sorry!”

That went wrong… I should try something else.

“The weather is nice, isn’t it?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “I suppose… It’s a tropical island after all.”

Hajime Hinata: “Y… Yeah. I guess you’re right.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Your point?”

Hajime Hinata: “Uhm… My point?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “... Nevermind.”

And things turn awkward quickly again. Gotta think of something else to keep the conversation going.

“What’s your favorite types of stories to write?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Favorite types of stories? What do you mean?”

Hajime Hinata: “You know… Fantasy, comedy, drama… Those types of stories. Do you happen to have a favorite genre to write in?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “...”

They turn their gaze away for a moment. I grow more nervous. Did I say something wrong? Did I make them upset? That would turn things really sour at a moment’s notice.

Ann Wolfsberger: “Genre… What a laughable concept.”

Hajime Hinata: “Huh?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Are you the type to judge a book by its cover Hajime?”

Hajime Hinata: “W… Well… I would lie if I said that there aren’t certain genres I prefer over others…”

Ann Wolfsberger: “What a narrow mindset.”

Hajime Hinata: “Huh!?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “The concept of genre is laughable. Categorizing a story solely by its primary content… It’s an insult to any piece of literature!”

Hajime Hinata: “Wh… What?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Stories aren’t just one genre! If you try telling a story with just that in mind, then it’s bound to fail! A story should be told because you feel the need to tell it! You shouldn’t bind yourself to such a silly idea as a ‘genre’! Just write what you think is best! Tell the story you want to tell and have others read about it! The best stories to tell are the ones which leave you thinking and don’t bind themself to the mere idea of falling into just one category! No story does!”

Suddenly Ann is getting overly passionate.

Ann Wolfsberger: “And judging it solely based on what category it belongs to… You’re missing out! Each story is worth giving a shot at least and listening to! If you limit yourself to this stupid genre idea, then you’re missing out on a lot more than you think!”

Hajime Hinata: “I…”

Ann Wolfsberger: “It’s like this stupid debate about manga and light novels not being seen as literature! What’s that even supposed to mean!? They also tell stories and are equally as valid! Just because something is older or a classic novel doesn’t mean it’s any less worthy of attention! They all tell stories so–!”

Yet then Ann comes to a halt all of a sudden before turning away, cheeks a little red.

Ann Wolfsberger: “Sorry… I shouldn’t have ranted that much.”

Hajime Hinata: “No, it’s fine. I was just a little surprised, that’s all.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “...”

Hajime Hinata: “You sure are passionate, aren’t you?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Hah… It’s all I know so I guess… But I bored you enough with my nonsense, didn’t I?”

Hajime Hinata: “I wasn’t bored or anything! Just–”

Ann Wolfsberger: “It’s fine. I probably should get going anyways. See you.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “It’s fine. I probably should get going anyways. See you.”

Ann leaves without a second thought. 

Hajime Hinata: “And here I thought they weren’t that talkative.”

Shortly after pondering about Ann’s overwhelming speech I decide to return to my cottage.

Rank 3

Hajime Hinata: “Hey Ann, can I ask you something?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “I guess… What is it?”

Hajime Hinata: “Last time you mentioned how manga should be acknowledged as literature.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “You remember my tangent?”

Hajime Hinata: “Haha, a little maybe. But I was wondering if you read manga.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “...”

They don’t respond, at least not right away. Am I about to be chewed out again? 

Ann Wolfsberger: “Of course I do. If I limit myself to just classic literature, I would have a very narrow view on things.”

Hajime Hinata: “Huh? Really?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “It can’t be denied that older works influenced the modern ones. If you read anything by Shakepeare for example, you will see how he has influenced modern writing.”

Hajime Hinata: “I… I see.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Although you could probably go further back into medieval times. Truth to be told, I'm a little more versed in western literature. Yet I have done some digging into its medieval literature as well and I’ve noticed some things.”

Hajime Hinata: “You read stuff that old!?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Yeah. Some of my favorite writings are hundreds of years old.”

I stare at them in disbelief. They really immerse themself in fiction, don’t they? I don’t think I can even contribute to anything. Holding a conversation with them about these things is very difficult.

Ann Wolfsberger: “But back to manga. I read it, yes. Light novels too. They’re interesting reads and just as valuable as any other literature.”

Hajime Hinata: “That’s unexpected. I didn’t take you for the type.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Do I look like one of those stuffy literature elitists to you?”

I freeze as Ann looks at me with another deadly glare.

Hajime Hinata: “I didn’t mean it like that! It’s just… You write a lot, right?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Yeah.”

Hajime Hinata: “I just thought that you would consider those things a waste of time.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “No story is a waste of time. The good and the bad. Also there’s some manga I quite like… More than the classics.”

Hajime Hinata: “Wow…”

Maybe they are a little easier to approach than I first thought.

Hajime Hinata: “Maybe we could talk about some eventually?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Huh? Discussing… Manga?”

Hajime Hinata: “Yeah. I would like to hear your thoughts more.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “...”

Hajime Hinata: “No good?”

I would expect it. After all, keeping up with the Ultimate Novelist about such things is a lot. Maybe they would want someone else to–

Ann Wolfsberger: “Sure, I don’t mind. But… It can’t be that interesting to listen to.”

Hajime Hinata: “You seem to enjoy it. Maybe I gain a different perspective too.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “...”

Ann suddenly goes silent again. They don’t speak up and their expression is hard to read. They don’t look scary but I can never tell what they are thinking at the moment. 

Ann Wolfsberger: “I saw some manga in the library. We can go right now if you like.”

Hajime Hinata: “You mean now now?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Are you busy?”

Hajime Hinata: “No. I’m just surprised you’re taking up the offer already.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “I wasn’t supposed to?”

Hajime Hinata: “That’s not–”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Are we going or not?”

They look at me expectantly.

Hajime Hinata: “Sure. I did say that I was curious.”

Ann and I head to the library on the second island and I end up discussing the manga’s contents with them. Or rather I’m the one listening… 

Rank 4

Ann Wolfsberger: “Hey… Uhm… Thanks Hajime.”

Hajime Hinata: “Thanks? Why are you thanking me Ann?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “You know… When we were discussing that manga series and… Well… You listened.”

Hajime Hinata: “Oh that? It’s no trouble at all. It was interesting to listen to.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “...”

I see Ann looking away in embarrassment. 

Hajime Hinata: “Did I say something weird?”

You never know with them. At least I was never sure… 

Ann Wolfsberger: “It’s just… Outside of my siblings I never had anyone listen to me like this before.”

Hajime Hinata: “You’re not a single child?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “No, I have three siblings. One older half brother, two others who were born on the same day as me. You know what I mean, right?”

Oh, that should be obvious…

“Step siblings”

Hajime Hinata: “You have step siblings?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “...”

Hajime Hinata: “That’s not it, right?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Not even close…”

In hindsight it does sound like the wrong answer…

“Half siblings”

Hajime Hinata: “Do you happen to have more half siblings?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “No, just one.”

Hajime Hinata: “Oh, I see.”

That’s not it. Something else…

“Triplets”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Yeah, we’re triplets.”

Hajime Hinata: “Ah, that makes sense.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “I didn’t really hide it either just now, did I?”

Hajime Hinata: “No, not really I guess.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “They are always there to listen to my rambles. Especially when it’s just us triplets. Then again, we’re called the Literary Triplets for a reason.”

Hajime Hinata: “Wait, you three share a talent?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Not exactly. We’re all just really good at literary things. I’m well versed in writing stories. My brother is an excellent poet and my other sibling is really good at reading between the lines. We all have our field of expertise.”

Hajime Hinata: “Oh. Are they also Ultimates?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Well… My brother was scouted but my other sibling… They’re still at our old high school. But they’re trying to get scouted so they can attend with us next year.”

Hajime Hinata: “Hey, if you two can make it, I’m sure they can too! … Wait, they? ´”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Yes, they. Is that a problem?”

Hajime Hinata: “Erm…”

Suddenly they glare at me again, as if I had been saying something out of line. 

Hajime Hinata: “N… No! I’m just surprised. That’s all!”

Ann Wolfsberger: “... I suppose that’s fair. Just keep it in mind.”

Hajime Hinata: “Yeah, I will.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Anyways, having someone else listen for once just for fun wasn’t that bad of a feeling. Usually people just listen if they don’t want to think about their homework in literature class.”

Hajime Hinata: “Really? I would expect more people to be eager to hear from the Ultimate Novelist.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “No, not really. I’m just the writing weirdo to most people. So again, thanks.”

I see a small smile on Ann’s face. It’s the first time I see it from them, so sincere. It’s all unexpected but they seem to open up slowly. I feel like I start to understand them.

Ann and I talk for a little longer before parting ways.

Rank 5

Ann Wolfsberger: “Hajime, do you have any experience with an animal protagonist?”

Hajime Hinata: “Huh? W… Well… They’re often featured in books and manga specifically targeted towards kids. So I wouldn’t know much about that.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “I see. I suppose it’s an understandable assumption. Though I honestly don’t plan on writing a novel for kids. It’s not the story I want to tell.”

Hajime Hinata: “What are you talking about?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “I want to start planning a novel with a cat as a protagonist but I don’t have any good literary references.”

Hajime Hinata: “And you thought that I would have some?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “It was worth a shot, wasn’t it?”

Hajime Hinata: “I… Can’t argue with that. But where’s this coming from?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “... I suppose I can tell you. I’m planning to write a novel where my cat is the protagonist.”

Hajime Hinata: “Huh? Why your cat?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Because he has a story worth telling and I don’t want him to fall into obscurity. I want other people to know how amazing he is!”

A cat? A… Cat. A cat. Yeah, a cat. 

Hajime Hinata: “That even your pet could be an inspiration…”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Tch, it’s not that. I need to tell his story! I know every pet owner says that their pet specifically is special but I really mean it! Ole has been there for me since I can think!”

For the first time I see them pout like a little child. It’s… Oddly adorable. But if I say that I feel as if I’m going to get crucified. Best to keep that to myself.

Hajime Hinata: “Ole? Is that the name of your cat?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Yeah, it is. And he’s really the awsomest, best cat who has ever catted! If it wasn’t for him, I probably wouldn’t be where I am today. I owe him a lot. I’m sure you can relate.”

Hajime Hinata: “I… never had a pet. Sorry.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Oh. Nevermind then… But mark my words. His story will captivate the masses and people will talk about him even past his prime!”

It seems like Ann is talking about a very personal project of theirs. They are even more passionate than ever before. At least they can be passionate about something, let alone someone… 

Hajime Hinata: “I’ll be on the lookout once you publish it.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Huh?”

Hajime Hinata: “I’m sure it’s going to be great. You got me interested.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “... Are you just saying that because of my Ultimate Novelist status?”

Hajime Hinata: “What!? No, that’s not it! There’s just this determination you’re showing. Your cat must mean a lot to you if you want to dedicate a novel to him.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “... Is it that obvious?”

They look away all bashfully, acting as if they hadn’t just called their cat ‘the awsomest, bestest cat to ever exist’.

Hajime Hinata: “Yeah, a little.”

More than a little actually…

Ann Wolfsberger: “Heh… Looks like I got a lot to live up to then. But I was going to give it 110% anyways. Ole deserves it.”

Hajime Hinata: “I’m sure he’s going to appreciate it.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Hey, while you’re here… Want to hear some of my ideas so far? Maybe you can add to it.”

Hajime Hinata: “M… Me? I’m sure someone like Gundham is better suited for something like that.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Oh come on. Sometimes not knowing about something is actually a good thing. It could give me a different perspective on things too you know.”

Somehow those words sting. Is that meant to be an insult?

Hajime Hinata: “Alright, if you insist. I’ll see what I can do.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Heh, thanks.”

I sit down with Ann and we brainstorm ideas for their new novel together.

Rank 6

Ann Wolfsberger: “I know that I’m saying this a lot lately but really… I think I’m getting back into my creative flow thanks to you Hajime. Thanks.”

Hajime Hinata: “Huh? Why thank me? I didn’t do anything.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “So you say but trust me, you do more than you imagine.”

Hajime Hinata: “No, I really didn’t do anything noteworthy.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “... Hah. I guess there’s no arguing with you. We’ll just go in circles. … You’re still free, right?”

Hajime Hinata: “Huh? Well, yeah. Why?”

Suddenly Ann grabs my hand without another word and leads me away. I can’t get a word out. I don’t know what is going to happen but my heart is racing. Maybe it’s just from sheer nervousness. Before knowing it we arrive at the beach.

Ann Wolfsberger: “Alright, here we are.”

Hajime Hinata: “Huh? Wha–”

Before I know it Ann is very close to my face and I stare at them with wide eyes. Wait, what is going on? What is happening!? I’m not ready for anything here! Wait wait wait–

Ann Wolfsberger: “Ok, I will say it one more time. And you better listen carefully because I’m trying to be sincere here. If not, you will not hear the end of it and I will scold you until your ears fall off.”

Hajime Hinata: “Ann, slow down! I don’t even know what you mean!”

Ann Wolfsberger: “I said it before, didn’t–”

They pause though. Only then they notice how close we are. Yet to my surprise they are unfazed. It doesn’t affect them in the slightest. They still wear the same expression. And they back away so calmly, as if not paying attention to what had just happened or what they could have implied.

Ann Wolfsberger: “Coming off too strong again? Whoops, sorry.”

Hajime Hinata: “S… So? What is it?”

Ann Wolfsberger: “You know… I’ll be honest. When I first met you, I didn’t expect much from you. Nor was I expecting anything, really.”

Hajime Hinata: “Ow… That’s harsh.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “I’m just being honest. Though it seems that I was proven wrong. That you of all people could help me get back on my feet, at least somewhat…”

Hajime Hinata: “All I did was listen for the most part though.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “That can go a long way too you know.”

I see Ann smile and hear them chuckle at the same time.

Ann Wolfsberger: “I’ll be honest? I was down the entire time. Being trapped on an island… And this Killing Game… But having someone who is willing to listen about what is going on in my head… It made me feel better, bit by bit. So thank you Hajime.”

Hajime Hinata: “...”

I would protest again yet they sound so sincere. Their tone leaves no room to argue. It’s not harsh, far from it. It’s actually surprisingly soft. 

Hajime Hinata: “You’re welcome.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “So we’re on the same boat? We’ll all escape this island and come back alive?”

Hajime Hinata: “That’s the plan, yeah.”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Then you better make it. Because if you don’t, I will personally come to the afterlife, give you an earful and then drag you back you hear?”

Hajime Hinata: “Y… Yes! Understood!”

Ann Wolfsberger: “Haha, don’t be so stiff. I’m joking! … For the most part.”

I talk to Ann a little longer before we both part ways.

Bonus

When deciding to hang out with Ann 1 (Rank 1 – 3)

Ann Wolfsberger: “Uh… This is such a pain. What are my hands supposed to do if not move a pen? … Ah, Hajime. I didn’t see you there. Did you need something? I’m pretty much free. I guess…”

I spend some time with Ann by walking around the island. Though they seem to be less than thrilled.

When deciding to hang out with Ann 2 (Rank 4 – 6)

Ann Wolfsberger: “Oh, hey there Hajime. Did you come here to see me? Well, I guess I don’t mind. Why not spend some time together? I got time.”

I spend some time with Ann by walking around the island. The conversation is a little lively.

Gift Giving

Love

Ann Wolfsberger: “Hm? Is this for me? … Thanks.” I see Ann smiling lightly. They seem to be happy.

Ann Wolfsberger: “W… Wait, this!? For me!? Am I that predictable!? Hey, I appreciate it of course! Just– Nevermind, thanks. Heh…” I can sense a deep gratitude coming from Ann

Ann Wolfsberger: “Where did you get that? Tell me now! Or else– Oh, I came off too strong, didn’t I? Sorry.” Ann is very happy about the gift I gave them, what a relief.

Like

Ann Wolfsberger: “Oh, I’ve been looking for this actually. Thanks for finding it.” Ann is a little happy about the present I gave them.

Ann Wolfsberger: “Hm? For me? Oh, thanks. I didn’t expect to receive anything today.” Ann seems to be grateful.

Neutral

Ann Wolfsberger: “... It’s the thought that counts. Thanks.” Ann seems to be shrugging it off. But it could have gone worse… Right?

Dislike

Ann Wolfsberger: “... I have to see if someone else like this.” Ann is slightly grimacing. This didn’t go well.

Ann Wolfsberger: “Hah… You tried but still failed. Whatever, I’ll find some use for this.” I see Ann looking at what I gave them with disapproval.

Hate

Ann Wolfsberger: “...” Ann’s glaring at me extremely sharply. Why do I feel like I’m about to die at any moment?

Ann Wolfsberger: “Is this a joke? If so, it's not very funny.” Ann looks at me with utter disgust.

Right now this wasn’t much different. But what was little Ann up to now which screamed their true intentions out loud? Nothing much, just the simple act of clinging around like an octopus. They had a tight grip on Nagito’s waist, having shoved themself as closely as possible against his back and were buried into it. A mere gesture whenever a long, working day had ended for the both of them. And sometimes they were just so tired that their first instinct was seeking their boyfriend out and just clinging onto him without much of another word. It could happen by surprise – Either with him standing in the kitchen and preparing dinner or folding the laundry. Or whatever other household chore there is. He always noticed just in time, before something could go horribly wrong. Technically he should tell them to wait and nudge them off somehow (softly of course) yet he just didn’t have it in him. That and a selfish part of himself wanted to feel the closeness for as long as possible as well. So he just let them get away with it. Now too but honestly? Sitting on the couch wasn’t the biggest deal this time.

He could feel their head nuzzling against his back, like some touch starved cat craving attention, bopping its head against its owner and wanting all of the affection and attention. Dare to do something else and it might become a little aggressive and meow at you constantly. And who could resist a cute, little fella like that? That’s how he felt about his partner most of the time, annoyingly cute. More cute than annoying of course but that’s the best way to picture it. Oh, and of course the mumblings they had which would be going right into his shirt. Those soft mumbles, hard to decipher yet always pleasant to listen to. Ah, he probably sounds a little down bad here. He can’t help himself. Oops.

Either way, he would love to just turn around and pet their head, something one would do to cats as well with such behavior. But if he made any attempt they would just hold tighter, sometimes a little too tight, all to prevent him from turning in any way. They were probably pouting yet blushing like crazy. It’s just so… Ann. Yeah, that’s the best way to put it. And they really insisted on it. Hence why he was not moving an inch though he wasn’t playing oblivious. No, of course he felt it.

“Haha, I missed you too.” The first thing Nagito said after a long time of silence between them, the comfortable kind of course. 

“I… It’s not…” His partner would weakly try to argue yet was lost partway through the sentence. They didn’t finish, not bothering to, and instead continued to clutch onto him. “Maybe I missed you a little.” They said it so bashfully too, a contrast to their usual tone.

“I know, I know. You don’t have to say it out loud. I think your hug speaks louder than your words right now.”

“Eh? It’s not that tight!” A lie, wasn’t it? 

It’s bullshit but he’s indulging it, sort of. “If you say so.”

“You don’t sound convinced.”

“Do you think I’m that horrible of a boyfriend and doubt the love of my life, my own hope?”

“That’s not what I meant! Ah, don’t make this weird.” And yet he heard the chuckle, at least they found some amusement in his overdramatic antics. It’s another reason why he hadn’t stopped with it, even if he didn’t know when it was too much. This was luckily not one of those times however. “Just… Give me a few more minutes. Please?”

Adding the ‘please’, as if he was never going to indulge them if they didn’t add it. Because why would he? Especially when they were being affectionate, it always came through at that point.

Yeah, even with such mundane and simple moments, these actions were screaming in comparison to words. A silent confession in its own right and he wouldn’t have it any other way.