Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

I never saw myself as a Talented person, well do take that statement with a grain of salt because in reality my talent is “Ultimate Mixologist” or “Super High School Level Mixologist” which yes I did doubt anyone would trust someone like me who just turned 18 to be mixing their cocktails or wine but as the only son of the head of the Dawn Winery of course I would have to find some way to help out with the family business, right?

 Do excuse my manners but I should Introduce myself…my name is Diluc… Diluc Ragnvindr and I hail from Mondstadt…

And this is how I learned the truth about how cruel humanity can be and how everyone is just a pawn for the gods to manipulate at their will…

It

Never

Get’s

Better.

Day 1: 8:09 AM : Monday

Location: 4th year classroom

“Hey are you up?” 

Who was that?

“Hellooooo!? Mister Pyro-Hair!?”

huh?

“Hello?” 

W-who is that?

“Hellooooo!?”

What The Fuck?

                       I jolted up from my seat “how long was I out?” I whispered to myself in confusion. Damn this ponytail is tight. Do I always wear my hair like this?

               “Your a 4th year, right!?” I looked at the source of the voice…a short boy with bright green eyes and black hair with teal dyed tips stared right at me in curiosity “ How did he know that?” I regained my composure and re-met the boy's eyes. 

                        “My name is Venti and I am what's known as the  Ultimate Bard! ” he finally introduced himself and I crossed my arms ``I am Diluc Ragnvindr …The Ultimate Mixologist- ” I introduced myself in return and his face lit up “I knew I recognized you!” he began “don’t you also work at the angels share?” He asked curiously which I responded with a curt nod.(I am not one to take part in such small talk but then again we seemed to be trapped in the school…) He must do his homework…I rose from my seat finally and coldly stared at the boy “I have a name” I finally said coldly and he chuckled “Yeah I know but you didn’t respond '' Because I was sleeping? “Here is a tip, when someone is sleeping they aren’t going to respond right away” I sighed and the boy grinned “oh I know that! I thought I was the only person sleeping in here." This was…quite the turn of events. He claimed he also ended up here when he woke up… I was still groggy so of course I didn’t notice it right away…there was a note on “my desk”:

                                                                                                     “Meet In The Gymnasium at 10:00 AM For a Role Call!” 

                   “It’s almost 9…we should probably head to the gymnasium, Venti,  I don’t want to know what will happen if we are late” Clearly that was a reasonable plan to him because he had left with me. “Why do you wear those gloves?” Venti finally piped up and I looked at him “hm? Oh just to hide a few burn marks…nothing special” I will be honest, this is quite a touchy subject( for me at least) because I don’t want to be reminded that I made an idiotic decision when I was 15 that ended in me hurting myself “but…it’s not a big deal” I sighed.

                  When we made it to the Gymnasium everyone was already here…I take it we were “late arrivals” 

                   “Hm? Well then that should make 20 by my knowledge…I highly doubt they would make a class with an uneven amount of students” a male with Midnight blue hair had pointed out. “Which is quite the shame…but nonetheless we all seem to be here, no?”  he did seem…suspicious, he wore an eyepatch. I could only Imagine that he’s either hiding something or just being a complete idiot. But then again…maybe it's for a similar reason like my gloves…                                                                          

 Kaeya Alberich: Super Highschool Level Runway Model

                   “Be that as it may, Kaeya, even if there are only 20 students here you never even socialize…don’t pretend you aren’t just as Introverted as me.” a female with short wine colored hair responded with a cold deadpan which had earned a soft chuckle from who I assume was Kaeya “oh come now, Rosaria, I do socialize…I just like to hang out with you” he had a cheeky smirk…I think I already concluded which one of us I hate the most. 

Rosaria La Morte: Super Highschool Level Occultist

“I’m still Tired…why were we called so"early "? An ombre haired female rubbed the sleep out of her eye…how can you still be so tired after what I feel like was 10 hours? And dare I say it felt like it was a whole week's worth of sleep?

Layla: Super Highschool Level Oneirologist

“I was still in the middle of drawing drafts for a new project…and then we are called here? Doesn’t sit right with me…” 

Kaveh Hedayati: Super Highschool Level Architect

“Keep lying to yourself, Kaveh. It isn’t going to change the fact that I got no sleep last week because of you” the blonde looked at him in disgust “you make me pay the rent, its your fault” he sighed with annoyance and the other male rolled his eyes.

Alhaitham: Super Highschool Level Scholar

“Everyone, chin up! Yall just all have to wait, maybe the millilith or the knights will come looking for us if the worst case happens!”                                      

Xinyan: Super Highschool Level Musician

  “We should Introduce ourselves, Diluc. The better we know each other and form bonds the faster we get out!” Venti exclaimed…quite loudly I should add but despite wanting to believe its true that wasn’t the case. “…I guess we should” I sighed, which had earned an excited “yay” from Venti…he is quite the extrovert…

 “Oh? You want to know my talent and name?” I can already tell ‘Mr Eyepatch’ was going to be a pain in the ass “I’m Kaeya Alberich and I have the fortunability to have the talent of “The Ultimate Runway Model”” okay maybe he wasn’t going to be a cheeky bastard…”but that could just be because I’m so attractive” he ended with a chuckle…nevermind I take that back he is a cheeky bastard.  “I’m joking…despite my talent I don’t care for my appearance” he ended in a sigh “I’m not a narcissist…as hard as that is to believe-” he finished up. I crossed my arms. It's amazing how he can act this calm and collected while we are trapped in this school for archons know how long.   “My name is Diluc Ragnvindr…The Ultimate Mixologist '' again…not one to socialize with. “He’s good at making and mixing cocktails and whatnot! Isn’t that cool!” Venti said with a fist in the air “mhm” Kaeya hummed and then he looked at Venti ``since you two came here to bother me it's best you also tell me your talent” he joked  and Venti chuckled “I guess it’s only fair, right? Well in that case my name is Venti and I am the Ultimate Bard!”

                       “Hi! I’m Venti and this is Diluc!” Venti exclaimed as we met the wine haired girl from earlier, she smirked slightly “Diluc? As in the son of the dawn winery’s owner?” She asked and I slowly nodded my head (how does everyone know who I am other than Kaeya, layla and hu tao?) I tried my best to keep my composure and stay nonchalant, if i can do that then I should be okay, right? “I’m the Ultimate Mixologist'' I finally said with a sigh as I fixed my ponytail for the 2nd time today. “Mixologist? So you’re good at…mixing drinks?” “more or less” I said nonchalantly. “I am Rosaria La Morte…I am the ultimate Occultist” “O-Occultist!?” Venti asked in slight fear and she nodded her head confidently “what? Are you scared I'm going to hex you?” she asked and I rolled my eyes. “Hex’s don’t exist'' coldness clouding my already deep voice, “ah so another paranormal non believer…” she smirked and I rolled my eyes once more “ghosts do exist Diluc!” Venti said in a slightly shocked voice “you just have the luxury of living in a mansion” he chuckled (and this is why I like to be alone). “I’m the ultimate Bard by the way!” Venti mentioned and Rosaria raised her eyebrow “you’re a…bard?” “mmhmm!” he hummed and she rolled her eyes “okay then.”

“I Am The Ultimate Assassin…” Venti chuckled nervously “you are the Ultimate Assassin? Isn’t it illegal to kill-” The ginger laughed, “Only if you get caught is when It’s illegal, comrade…” he continued to spin the blade in his hand and then met my eyes ``and I never get caught…therefor…not Illegal” “you must have some twisted morals, then” I sighed and he flashed a cold stare…”and what if i do? Every assassin must have one, no?” his smirkiness was almost annoying…not almost it was extremly annoying (Maybe more than Venti but less annoying than Kaeya.) “And besides…I’m getting paid to kill-” “so you’re a hitman?” I questioned. I’m actually losing my patience with him. “More or less.” he smirked. He had told us that he went by “Tartaglia '' I'm curious on why he has hid his first /and/or last name…odd.

“GUYS LOOK AT THE STAGE!” 

I looked at the stage and…a pedestal rose from it “what the fuck is this shit?” I heard Tartaglia say and I sighed…

“I-Is that a Teddy bear?” Venti seemed “shocked” and honestly I was too-

“MONOKUMA! NOT A TEDDYBEAR”

“Did that teddy bear…just talk” Layla questioned “maybe I’m just hearing and seeing things-” she chuckled groggily( and I wish she was right.)

“I am NOT a Teddy bear little missy, I am Monokuma…Your new headmaster!”

Wait what!? Did he just say…new headmaster? “Welcome to your new lives for the rest of your lives here at hopes peak academy!” 

“What do you mean “New lives?” I have a bar to help manage” I said coldly and the bear cocked his head

“Hm? Are you that dense? It’s simple…you all will live here (and no there is no way to go back to the outside world)  puhuhu do you really prefer working somewhere where sad men come to mope?”

Did he…

“And I have a deadline for an outfit-” a blonde female exclaimed and then she looked at Kaeya and he chuckled (what was that about?)

 “Deadline shmeadline, doesn’t matter! All that matters is that you guys are living here till death do you part, might as well get used to it, bimbo” this “Headmaster” is really disrespectful( if he really is the new headmaster who the fuck hired him!?”

“Bimbo!? You didn’t just-” the blonde gritted her teeth. “Oh I just did it!” the bea- I mean monokuma replied.

“Well that “Deadline” she has is an outfit for my next show, surely you know what she meant. Such a shame that people stopped caring for us models' ' Kaeya began, “and surely you understand that Miss Rosalyn is such a dear friend to me. It would hurt to see that she can’t perfect her already perfect craft on designing the most beautiful attire, no? Isn’t that what hope's peak academy is for anyways?” Kaeya did have a point. I will give him that, Hope's peak academy is for talented students who have a chance at becoming a god. Whenever someone has something they are genuinely passionate about they are given an invitation and a vision from hope's peak academy. I have perfected not just mixing drinks but when my father is on a business trip I am also doing the business half at the angels share( ordering ingredients, taxes, hiring, etc) when I was In 6th grade was when I got the go ahead for when I am in highschool. A pyro vision…that was because I was driven by passion to help out my father…wait now that i think about it-

“Kaeya, Kaeya, Kaeya, Kaeya. Of course I admire your skill. I admire all of your skills beary much-” did he really make a fucking bear pun? “In fact I admire all 20 of you guys that I have set up ‘Ultimate Labs’ for all the 20 of you since you love what you do! What kind of headmaster would I be if I didn’t take your talents into consideration?” monokuma finally concluded.

“How about we get on to the fun part!” the fun part? What's the fun part?

“if you truly want a way out…There is a loophole!” he began and I raised an eyebrow

“MURDER!” 

What!? He wants us to…kill? Is it an enemy or-

“Who are we killing? I can take them out in 5 seconds” Tartaglia smirked.

“Puhuhu , your target? Is each other!” monokuma exclaimed and I clenched my fists

“YOU CAN’T EXPECT US TO KILL EACH OTHER!?” I yelled and Tartaglia laughed “honestly I don’t mind this…I don’t mind it at all…In fact-” “Hey monokuma? Are there any rules for this so called “murder game” he finished “DON’T ENCOURAGE HIM!” Venti and I had said at the same time and Tartaglia rolled his eyes ``honestly comrade…I will encourage anyone” he smirked.

“Rules? Yes, how about we start the rules for the new “Killing School Semester!”

Chapter Text

I can’t believe he is making us kill each other…

“First things first I know what you are all thinking “But i don’t want to kill so and so or but murder is immoral” and frankly I don’t give a bears ass-” again why does he keep throwing “bear” around, “you will commit good old fashioned murder whether you like it or not! And lets just say that you can kill however you’d like!”

“By…bashin, stabbin, clobberin, beheading, torchin, crushin, guttin, chokin or even hexin!”

Venti looked at Rosaria when monokuma mentioned “Hexing”

“Where is my vision?” I demanded, I remember bringing it but…I don’t have it at all( and I always bring it with me)

“About that! All Visions and phones have been confiscated(we can’t have you guys calling the knights of favonious or the millilith for help now, can we?) and it will be like that for the rest of your lives.”

“Oh great! Well I guess I’m overheating then” Kaeya sighed sarcastically. (based off of that comment he probably has a cryo or hydro vision)

“You guys complain all you want, it's just going to make me pity you any less( not like I pity anyways which I don’t”) monokuma replied.

“If you kill someone we will hold an investigation and then a ‘Class Trial’” He began

“So we are playing detective?” Venti asked; Thoma shuddered at the thought.

“Ah so you do understand, A+ for you, Venti '' what are these euphemisms?

“Yes you will be playing ‘Detective’ the person that Kills (and gets away with it) will be able to leave while the rest of you get executed-”

“EXECUTED!?” Thoma asked with shock and I crossed my arms ``yeah executed? Don’t you think that's a bit unfair? I doubt most of us have that high of an intuition, we aren’t the “Ultimate Detective.”” I pointed out and then I slightly tilted my head.

“Puhuhu, yes I know you aren’t the “Ultimate Detective” but dems the breaks. If the killer gets found out…they will get executed Instead! Simple right?” he asked us with an innocent tone, i rolled my eyes once more and sighed “it’s simple till we all get executed” Rosaria sighed and Kaeya smirked “hm? So all we have to do is Kill and not get caught? Life truly is interesting” he gave out a blissful sigh (what about this was blissful to him!?”)

“Kaeya? H-how is this fun '' '' Thoma asked and Kaeya smirked “Thoma…life and death is what makes this fun, taking life in exchange for life…killing for the sole purpose of surviving. Just think, Thoma, this is like the survival of the fittest only both the intelligent and strong can coexist within this school and survive off of sheer intuition and brute force while the weaker minded get killed off one by one as victims for survival” Kaeya replied, a cold and twisted aura surrounded him…it was unnerving I’m not going to lie…it felt Inhuman…

“See! Kaeya gets it, why can’t you guys be more like him and just accept it?” Tartaglia smirked and then he pulled his blade out of his pocket and spun it in his hand once more “Life in exchange for life, Death in exchange of Death…this is the reality, Comrades” Tartaglia explained and Kaeya nodded in agreement.

“You both have…quite the…mindset. But do tell…why would ‘Killing’ be relevant right now without motive” Zhongli asked and I sighed “Zhongli why are you encouraging this?” I asked “i’m not I was just stating. If we kill without reason it feels more “petty”, hm?” I mean he wasn’t wrong…but he wasn’t right-

Because of Zhongli’s question…we had to go to the AV room…something about a “motive”

And I didn’t like what I saw…

We all sat at a computer and inserted our discs…the discs had our names on them and-

What I saw…

Father…had died I saw it before my eyes…Ursa the Drake had been locked up for what I think was 500 years and someone released her…not just that but…

Where were the Knights of Favonius? Weren’t they supposed to defend mond? What happened to them? Why weren’t they stopping the attack? I had so many questions but I was too…too mortified to even comprehend what I saw…

No more Angels Share…no more Dawn Winery…no more wine, apple cider, grape juice…

I’m…I’m The last Ragnvindr in existence…I can’t lose to this game…I can’t lose to this bears sick game…I’m a Ragnvindr…Ragnvindr’s never give in to selfish needs…Kaeya was sitting next to me…his breath was uneven and shaking but…

He…he had a straight face but the way his eyes moved…his pupils clearly was just as mortified as me but again…a straight face, Venti also had a straight face but tears rolled down his cheeks…everyone was feeling immense amounts of despair…what was in everyone's discs?

“Upuhuhu! The despair on your faces is PRICELESS (if i had a Kamera i would’ve taken a class photo)”

I threw the headphones down and eyed the bear, my eyes colder than they have ever been-

“What kind of sick joke is this? Human lives aren’t toys to play with!” I clenched my fists…I desperately wanted to hit him so badly that he would go to hades-

“Sick joke? Watch how you talk to your headmaster, Diluc”

“It’s *Master* Diluc” I tilted my head.

“There is no more Dawn winery! What are you the master of? WINE-ing?”

“If I were you, Monokuma, I wouldn’t disrespect me”

“Oh that cold aura…sure has me shaking in my little bear feet”

❦✎✐✎✐✎CLASS❦ROSTER✐✎✐✎✐❦

Kaeya Alberich- Ultimate Runway Model- 3rd year (ALIVE)

Diluc Ragnvindr- Ultimate Mixologist- 4th year (ALIVE)

Ajax “Tartaglia” smirnov- Ultimate Assassin- 3rd year (ALIVE)

Zhongli Long- Ultimate Consultant- 4th year (ALIVE)

Kaveh Hedayati- Ultimate Architect- 3rd year (ALIVE)

Alhaitham- Ultimate Scholar- 4th year (ALIVE)

Albedo Kreidprinz- Ultimate Pseudoscientist- 3rd year (ALIVE)

Thoma- Ultimate Housekeeper- 2nd year (ALIVE)

Venti Guitwein- Ultimate Bard- 2nd year (ALIVE)

Kaedehara Kazuha- Ultimate Haiku Poet- 2nd year (ALIVE)

Jean gunnhildr- Ultimate ???- 4th year (ALIVE)

Rosaria La Morte- Ultimate Occultist- 3rd year (ALIVE)

Rosalyn (La-Signora)- Ultimate Fashion Designer- 4th year (ALIVE)

Sagnomiya Kokomi- Ultimate Priestess- 1st year (ALIVE)

Hu Tao- Ultimate Funeral Director- 1st year (ALIVE)

Beidou- Ultimate Pirate Captain- 3rd year (ALIVE)

Sucrose- Ultimate Biochemist- 2nd year (ALIVE)

Xinyan- Ultimate Musician- 1st year (ALIVE)

Layla- Ultimate oneirologist- 3rd year (ALIVE)

Dehya- Ultimate Street Racer- 4th year (ALIVE)

After monokuma left we all went to the dining hall to talk about our current predicament.

Kaeya was running his hands through his boa collar, Venti was playing with his braids, Rosaria fidgeted with her finger accessories and Tartaglia kept spinning his blade, not making eye contact with anyone.

“W-well…what do we do now?” Kokomi asked as she slowly closed her book and alhaitham and zhongli shrugged their shoulders ``well how about we meet here at 8:30 every morning.” I suggested and Jean nodded her head in agreement “seems reasonable, that way we can take “attendance” whoever isn’t here will either be dead, sleeping in or lost.” she pointed out “ “please let's not have “death” as an option, Jean” Venti shuddered at the thought and she sighed “It’s reality at its( dare I say it) finest…""does anyone know how to cook? We could hold a sort of breakfast gathering?” zhongli suggested which by our luck Thoma smiled “That would be me” he chuckled and zhongli smirked “then i guess it’s settled?” Kaeya cocked his head and Venti grinned “yeah! This is a good plan!” the hope in venti’s voice…I sure hope he isn’t still thinking about whatever he saw…“I don’t eat breakfast” Rosaria admitted “its not like you have to?” Kaveh pointed out and Alhaitham rolled his eyes.

“It's sad that we don’t know if it's night or day” Venti sighed sadly and Rosalyn smirked “Venti there are clocks around the school” “oh yeah…” he realized and I let out a small laugh. “That's not the worst part-” Kaeya sighed “I was supposed to have a show today but I guess celestia had other plans” “i sure hope that's not all you care about” Rosalyn asked with slight concern (I mean she isn’t wrong that can’t be something healthy to fixate on all day…especially in our current predicament)

“You guys may care about your clothing but I just want to finish my project” Kaveh sighed in defeat “of course you do…so you can keep me up all night” Alhaitham crossed his arms and Kaveh got defensive “you know i am a perfectionist!” “Yeah and your habits are unhealthy…” “Guys! We are getting off track.” Jean redirected and Kaeya shrugged his shoulders “we should at least explore the school” I spoke up “yes, good Idea Master Diluc” Jean sighed with relief (probably because I was the only other one other than Zhongli being serious about this)“I was actually just about to do that” Albedo admitted and sucrose nodded her head “y-yeah me too!”

“Dehya, Layla, Alhaitham, Sucrose, Albedo, Beidou, Xinyan, Rosaria and Rosalyn can take the 3rd floor then” Jean began “Hu Tao, Zhongli, Thoma, Kazuha, Kokomi, Venti and Tartaglia can take the 2nd floor.” she added and then she looked at Kaveh “Kaveh? Are you able to make a layout of the main 3 floors?” “Normally I would say no but since we are stuck here then I can try, but I don’t know how long it will take” Kaveh replied and Jean nodded “works for me” she sighed “what about me???” Kaeya questioned with a short drawl and I crossed my arms “yeah why isn’t Kaeya going with any of them?” I asked and she took a breath( I mean she was speaking…very fast at the end) “because us three will be exploring the 1st floor, I also left Kaveh out because he will need to make a whole Layout of the school-”

“That won’t be needed” oh archons…

Monokuma had seemingly come out of nowhere holding a box (how does that work?)

“I almost forgot! These E-Handbooks are important!” he gave us what is supposed to be an “Electronic Handbook

I turned mine on:

Diluc Ragnvindr | SHSL Mixologist | Mondstadt

Time: 3:06 PM

Sex: Male

Age: 18

Ultimate Lab: Bar and Wine-cellar

“Ah… and I thought I would never get to see a Wine cellar ever again.”

“These have the Layout of the whole school and It shows you guys where your Ultimate Labs are, Have fun!” and like that…he disappeared.

“Thank the Dendro Archon” Kaveh sighed happily “I guess we got lucky” Jean said in astonishment as she turned her handbook on… ”where…why doesn’t it say my Ultimate Talent?” Jean asked and Kaeya cocked his head “do you not remember your talent, Jean?” he questioned with concern and she shook her head “with all honesty I do not…I thought it would show me but I guess not.” “how do you forget your own Talent!?” me and Kaeya seemingly asked at the same time and she sighed “I don’t know…even my memory seems to be hazy-” “Does…anyone know what “Khaenri’ah is?” Albedo finally piped up and Kaeya’s eye lit up “yeah I want to know that too…Does your Home Country also say: “Khaenri’ah?”” Kaeya asked and Albedo had nodded his head( what or where is Khaenri’ah thats the first time i’m hearing about it…) “Maybe the person orchestrating this managed to push our memories back?” Zhongli asked and the most of us laughed at that theory(discluding me)
“Zhongli, how do you come up with that right away?” Hu-Tao sighed as she caught her breath “he isn’t far off…I also had the suspicions that someone was orchestrating this whole ‘Killing Game'’' Alhaitham admitted and Kaveh looked at him in disgust “that bear has to be remote controlled…” he concluded.

“Oh well” Kaeya said to himself as he walked away from his lab “hm?” I hummed and he sighed “It’s locked…” Kaeya exclaimed sadly and at the worst time possible…

“It’s not locked you’re just not opening it correctly”

Monokuma again…

“Oh? How so?” Kaeya asked with slight irritation and Monokuma laughed at him “It’s a pull not a push” “but it looks like a push” Kaeya chuckled and I rolled my eyes( is he an actual idiot or was he being satire?)…eventually Kaeya had opened his room and I peaked inside…

Here is what I noticed right away:

A huge closet

A small stage

A few mirrors lined up on the wall

A Vanity mirror…probably for makeup (wait what…?)

Kaeya seemed really happy…its almost like he’s two faced…its either he’s very sadistic and twisted…or he’s annoying, Idiotic and calm…I wonder why that is?

“I’m going to be honest Diluc…I don’t like the idea of killing anyone” Kaeya admitted and I looked at him…wait I’m so confused what did he just say? “But I thought you said it was “fun” If I remember correctly you said “taking life in exchange for life…killing for the sole purpose of surviving???”” he needs to stop contradicting himself…he’s getting 1. Very hard to read( unless that's what he’s trying to be) and 2. Being very annoying to the point where I want to choke him. “It’s called “Manipulation”” Kaeya began “I’m just trying to not show any fear…that's how you become a victim, luc” Kaeya concluded “It’s Diluc” I corrected and Kaeya chuckled “ah, sorry I guess” he sighed sadly. He’s acting weird…like we were very close before this all went down…but this is the first time I ever met him… Kaeya then walked up to me and whispered in my ear “I know monokuma is watching…look in that corner over there” Kaeya whispered as he directed my head to the other wall “see he puts security Kamera’s in our rooms to keep a close eye on us…I truly wonder…why would he need to do that?” Kaeya added “now that I think about it…”

Me and Kaeya walked to the third floor since he decided in the first place to get a better way of the land within the school with me since everyone practically picked a “Travel partner”

“Ah here it is” Kaeya looked at the lab…”my handbook says it’s a wine cellar and bar-” Kaeya’s eye lit up “finally I really want wine” he said and I looked at him with confusion “h-how old are you?” I asked( last time I checked the legal age is usually 18, “16” Kaeya finally said and I cringed “have you…ever had wine before?” I asked cautiously and he nodded his head “countless times” he replied. Wait is he…serious? Consuming wine at the age of 16…? “You’re joking…right?”

“Fine one glass…then that's it” I finally gave in sternly and Kaeya smirked “oh? Finally giving in? I will remind you that I am 16.” why is he being snarky…it’s like parts of his personality slightly change “shut up” I rolled my eyes and he chuckled softly…he seems to be enjoying himself. “damn…It’s like a replica of the Angels Share” I finally said in astonishment “I still don’t get why it says i’m from this “Khaenri’ah” place…last time I checked I was from Mondstadt” Kaeya finally said and then “and it does look like the angels share…I've been here before” Kaeya added and I cocked my head “I bartend there everyday…I have never seen you before.” Kaeya looked confused “are my memories that hazy then?” Kaeya asked and I shrugged. I’m not even playing dumb I have never seen him before…he looks…exotic isn’t the word to describe him( but he said he’s apparently from this “Khaenri’ah” place so maybe Exotic would describe his appearance and his “eccentric” taste in clothing( the corset, skin tight jeans and victorian-ish top paired with his collar fluff was proof) but his pupils do stand out, they look like stars so maybe Exotic or unique could be two words to describe him…no one on Teyvat that I know of has star pupils…

Kaeya followed me down the wine cellar due to curiosity, I only went down because I wanted to know what kind of liquor, wine and beer they had stocked up on “the handbook says materials will be restocked weekly (preferably every Friday within reason), meaning the alcohol in your lab and the fabric in mine as examples” Kaeya explained and I nodded “Not like anyone other than Me, and Zhongli( and maybe Jean) can drink (not like I like drinks like this anyways)” “yeah but still…” we finally made it down the wine cellar:

Snezhnayan Fire Water

Dandelion Wine

Sparkling Wine

Apple Cider

Grape Juice

Rum (why is there rum)

Whiskey (okay this is getting…questionable)

Sake (okay I see why they have Sake)

Various wine’s

More vodka (we only needed the Snezhnayan Fire Water (and that's a hard liquor))

And one of Mondstadt’s favorite’s:

Beer.

“Wow…how did they get there hands on Snezhnayan Fire Water?” Kaeya chuckled and I raised an eyebrow “Yeah I would like to know that too. I had some before…passed out for 3 days, missed 3 days of school” Kaeya bursted into laughter and I flashed him a cold stare “you’re a lightweight!? A MIXOLOGIST is a LIGHTWEIGHT!?” he had said in between laughs “yeah keep laughing Kaeya I’ll just reduce the amount of wine I will give you” which clearly I was being sarcastic…

“What are you in the mood for?” I asked and Kaeya thought for a long minute “Death in the afternoon” he finally replied (does he know that's a harder wine?) “you do know that is harder than usual wine, right?” i want to make sure he knows what he wants “yeah, I am aware of that, Diluc '' he finally replied. I grabbed a bottle of Sparkling Wine and a bottle of Dandelion Wine, there was no use fighting kaeya on this, right? I mean he is a famous model so I wouldn't be surprised if he does drink during aftershows/parties and etcetera. We both then walked back upstairs to the bar.

“Now lets see the magic of the “Ultimate Mixologist”” Kaeya smirked as he sat down near the bar, I had already put the wine in the cylinder and started shaking it (while not making eye contact with kaeya; I could feel him grinning though.) I felt calm as I did it…like I was releasing all the stress I had built up from this morning…It was…nice-

“Is it to your…liking?” I asked while setting the wine bottles on the shelf…kaeya had a look of astonishment (I must have done something right then) “wow, now I know why you are the ultimate mixologist” He chuckled and I smirked “are you sure you aren’t a lightweight? Sounds quite out of character right now” “shut up Diluc, Just accept the praise” he chuckled. “Memories have been coming back to me…very very very VERY slowly…” Kaeya started “but they are all random…like apparently you had some significance in my life…I think” Kaeya cut off and sighed “are you okay?” I asked and he shook his head “no no I’m okay…”

*DING DONG DING DONG 10 PM 10 PM It Is Curfew

I was already in my room when Monokuma said that…I was so exhausted that I practically passed out( but I did lock my door right away…)

“Where is Kokomi?” Thoma asked hesitantly and I shrugged my shoulders “maybe she’s still sleeping?” Kaeya asked and Jean nodded “maybe…I sure hope she’s sleeping or lo-.” “Diluc…let's go check on her” Thoma finally interrupted and I nodded…

We ran to the 2nd floor but she was not in her room at all “where is she?” Thoma asked, fear striking his voice, he seemed to be on the verge of panicking “go back down stairs and tell everyone she isn’t here” I ordered and he nodded and ran out of the room…

10 minutes later Kaeya, Jean and Venti had come to her room while I was just about to leave “she isn’t here?” Venti asked and then a few minutes later Kaveh, Zhongli and Rosaria came in “She isn’t even in her lab” Kaveh said in between breaths and Rosaria sighed “I checked everywhere she would've gone and she isn’t anywhere-” she added.

Thoma came back with a mortified face…
Like he saw something he wasn’t supposed to see…

“She’s Dead”

Chapter Text

“w-what…K-Kokomi is…Dead?” Kazuha asked and Venti nodded “you went to school with her in Inazuma, right?” Venti asked and Thoma nodded his head “we both went to school with her…” Thoma still seemed mortified and Kazuha sighed shakily…

Thoma took us to Kokomi’s body…he had the unfortunate luck of stumbling across her corpse… “right…here…is where s-she died…here in the kitchen-” he trembled filled with the same mortified aura he had 20 minutes ago… and as I looked…at her body…

her stomach had been cut open here eyes…lifeless, the highlights, kindness and innocence her eyes had/gave in her eyes had faded a long while ago…the only emotion her dead body gave off was…fear and despair.

Monokuma had came out of nowhere once more-

“You have 2 hours to investigate and after that we shall do a class trial! Lets hope you come up with a good verdict by then upuhuhu '' and like that…disappeared without a trace…

                                                                                                          INVESTIGATION START!

“W-who would do this? Why cut her stomach open? And…” I looked closer. I felt like I had to regurgitate, I noticed the only thing left in her stomach was her organs…her kidneys had been removed- “why get rid of the kidneys?” I asked curiously and Venti looked over…his face mortified as well and he covered his mouth and…puked… “who would do that!?” Venti sighed shakily and threw up once more…few minutes later Kaeya had came into the kitchen…”w-what the fuck!?”

                                                                                                    -Evidence Found: Missing Kidneys

“Hey Diluc! Look over here…” Kaeya said as he pointed to a set of kitchen knives ``The smallest Knife that was here…clearly isn’t here, no?” Kaeya then walked over to Kokomi’s body “and look how neat the cut was…It was “Cut open” not “Stabbed open'''' Kaeya added “Meaning this wasn’t just a murder but…” Kaeya drawled off as he bent down to the lifeless Kokomi and picked up her hand “and look at her hands… see how red her wrists are…like she was being “Restrained”” to some degree” Kaeya began as he let go of the hand “may you rest in Celestia, Kokomi'' he whispered. “She was tortured to death…not specifically intended to be killed right away.” 

So he isn’t just a Fashion Model but he has a high intuition? I have one too but…it’s like he’s the “Ultimate analyctical Prowess” he’s really good at analyzing people and reading body languages just to conclude what type of person someone is…

                                                                                        -Evidence Found: Missing Kitchen Knife

                                                                                         -Evidence Found: Red markings on wrists

“Diluc check your E-Handbook.” Kaeya then said and Venti did the same, Thoma left. “It says she Died near 11:30 PM and 5:03 AM ” I explained and venti looked at the “Monokuma file“ it says she should have a stab wound on her neck…care to verify that, Kaeya?” “mhm” he hummed and he moved her body a little “I’m so sorry I have to move you, I know this is disrespectful but I am dearly sorry” he whispered quite sadly as he looked at her neck “It looks more like a cut wound than a stab wound…”

Even while someone is dead, Kaeya is respectful of someone's wishes? He truly is two faced…Sadistic and twisted in the face of danger and sheer fear but annoying and mature during serious and dire situations…”manipulation” he calls it…is he saying he wants us to fear him, because I don’t. Maybe while our daily life progresses we all may get to see who the true Kaeya Alberich is…that's only if he is willing to show us which at this point I highly doubt it…he just wants to leave just as much as us…he seems like he would do anything other than kill just to show dominance within this class…acting sadistic and not scared of death…if you were to do the opposite you would be quite the easy target especially to manipulate so I can see where he is coming from. Something tells me he’s been manipulating and being two faced all his life…he’s really good at it I can’t tell what Is real or fake…

                                                                                     -Evidence Found: wound on kokomi’s neck

“W-what is that?” I bent down and picked what looked like a green butterfly…it was more of a mint “what is this?” Kaeya and Venti walked up to me and venti smiled “I think that's a crystal fly …?” he questioned “may I see it master Diluc?” I gave it to him in defeat and he touched its wing…the crystal fly flinched but it was nearly dead . “put this in a cup or something, we could use this as evidence” Kaeya piped up and venti got on it right away. 

Missing Kidneys…Missing Kitchen Knife…Kokomi’s red wrist markings, the wound on her neck…

All the evidence was weird to me…I don’t doubt the missing kidneys had also put both Kaeya and Venti on edge( if you’re going to kill someone why get rid of 1 certain organ but keep the rest spilling out the stomach? Not just that but cut the stomach clean and not just stab her and be done with it…? But…now that I think about it…she looks like she had been gutted like an actual fish…minus the removal of what should've been all her organs other than the kidneys. But why would there be a crystal fly…there were a lot at the dawn winery but…this one was unrecognizable without it’s “Glittery glow” this one was…dull and sad…Like someone drained its life force or something else under those lines…

                                                                                             -Evidence Found: Dead Crystal Fly

“She looks like she was gutted like a fish” I finally piped up and Venti looked at me weirdly “thats a good comparison but how will that prove relevant during the trial?” Venti asked and Kaeya looked back at Kokomi’s corpse “because, Venti…the cuts were clean…while gutting fish…or dissect ing something…you have to be very precise on how or where you cut-” once Kaeya realized he had said “Dissect” his own eye had lit up in shock “is something wrong, Kaeya?'' Venti asked but he just shook his head and left the room. “Well that happened.” I chided nonchalantly, “he’s letting on less than he knows…interesting” Venti chided and I nodded my head in agreement…

But Venti is right…Kaeya definitely knew something…he had left in a huff…does he…know who did it? Did he have suspicions this morning? Was he analyzing everyone silently? There are so many questions you could come up with and still get 0 answers for them because…

Kaeya Alberich, The Ultimate Runway Model, never shared his own thoughts.

                                                                                              Truth Bullet Unlocked: Murder Method

“I did hear something last night but I couldn’t tell what or who it was…but It did sound feminine …the only time I got up was to get some milk to drink last night (and by my knowledge the murder had not yet taken place) I don’t remember what time it was since I was still groggy so It had to be a little after 11:30 AM ” Albedo then sighed. “Wait so…you left for the kitchen a little after 11:30?” Venti asked for confirmation and Albedo thought for a split second and nodded his head to confirm “I believe so because the murder had not yet happened…not once did I see miss Sagnomiya’s body so I do apologize if this wasn’t much help for the two of you” Albedo then crossed his arms, “actually…this is enough proof, Thanks, Albedo!” Venti finally said and I let a small smile escape my lips(Venti had done most of the talking…I really don’t want to question people or accused right now…especially with being Introverted; Venti’s extroverted behavior worked as a sort of “info gatherer” of some sorts)

The question was…who or what was that voice or noise…all we know is that it was indistinct but there is probably a bigger story…If albedo were to be able to make out the voice type we could have a list of potential suspects that could end up being the blackened…

                                                                                        -Truth Bullet Unlocked: Albedo’s Account

As Albedo was about to leave “Can we talk in private, Albedo?” I questioned and he nodded his head, we had walked to the front of his lab to discuss matters…It was on the second floor and near the closest bathroom (odd)

_______

“Are you able to describe the voice you heard?” I asked and the blonde gave me a look of confusion before nodding his head in realization “well…it wasn’t a low voice so I doubt that was Dehya or Beidou…” Albedo shook his head “It was higher pitched…but the voice was unrecognizable…it sounded…muffled if you may.” he gave me a very straightforward answer (which I didn’t expect anything less of Albedo) “Thanks, this will prove liable during the trial, you have my gratitude.” I then made my way downstairs so I could compose my thoughts

Now I just need to chalk down who could be the person that Albedo heard. It could’ve been: Hu Tao, Kokomi, Sucrose, Xinyan, Layla… They sound the youngest out of all of us and If we are talking about feminine voices it doesn’t necessarily need to be a female… Venti can also be added onto this list so just to stay safe I had taken mental notes on how he could be a suspect. Doesn’t help that he also looks like a female(to some extent) but…

                                                                       -Truth Bullet Unlocked: Mysterious Feminine Voice

Albedo’s lab was on the 2nd floor…I heard from others that they couldn’t find their labs…the only ones visible on the map were: Mine, Kaeya’s, Albedo’s, Sucrose And Dehya’s. But other than that…no one’s labs were around… with even Tartaglia expressing how he needs a weapon to kill someone (which should put him at the top of the suspect list(s) because…during a “killing game” you shouldn’t even express your need to kill someone) What also peaked my interest was how certain areas on each floor were locked off…we couldn’t get In, I had asked Monokuma about it but:

“It’s to make sure all my students are safe and sound obviously! What do you take me for? Some sort of monster?” 

That is the answer he had given me which…made me cringe quite hard…everything he says and does contradicts his true motive…I don’t know if he was playing another sick and twisted game or something else that may or may not also be something twisted and sadistic…

I walked back to the dining hall, Kaveh, Zhongli, Alhaitham, Jean and Beidou were talking to each other…about what didn’t concern me but I did sit at the table and tried to tune them out but…

“I’m just saying! The keys to my room are alien to me. The key barely fits in the keyhole and not just that but it won’t even work…I will never get to experience comfort ever again” Kaveh seemed worked up and he was being…quite the Drama queen. “So go find somewhere else to sleep '' Alhaitham suggested nonchalantly which pissed Kaveh off, you could practically see the steam coming from his ears. “why do you think I asked if I could room with you!?” Kaveh finally replied with an eyeroll, Zhongli and Beidou seemed to think the argueing was entertaining judging by Zhongli’s huge smirk and Beidou trying to contain her laughter whereas Jean seemed pretty stressed “Alhaitham…just let him stay with you since his keys won’t work” Jean sighed and Alhaitham crossed his arms ``when we get out of here together you’re paying more of the rent” he was…very nonchalant and confident all at the same time. “How are you so confident that I will make it out alive!?” Kaveh asked, confusion clouding his voice and he smirked “you won’t, that's why” Kaveh then stormed out of the dining hall.

“I think you were…quite hard on him this time” Zhongli piped up with slight shock “he will learn soon that his ego gets the best of him sometimes” Alhaitham…the aura he was giving off felt…different. 1-5 minutes ago he was nonchalant and confident…now he sounds and looks…worried( I wonder if that is out of character for him or not) “and how did you being cold and calculating towards him help? That should be the last thing you did” Beidou finally spoke up which made Alhaitham storm off without a word “they are both emotional today, huh?” Beidou concluded. “Wrong time Beidou…Wrong time…” Zhongli concluded.

                                                                       Truth Bullet Unlocked: The Dining Hall Conversation

*This part is not Diluc POV this is 3rd person (also known as Alhaitham trying to take care of his needy boyfriend just for plot*

Kaveh sat in front of his room, tears started to roll down his flushed cheeks but he quickly shook the feeling of loneliness and indifference away. “Sulking without me again?” Kaveh looked up at Alhaitham “why do you care, come to ridicule me again, are we?” Kaveh turned away from the taller male “you aren’t going to die…not while I’m here…not while I’m still alive” “another one of your empty promises” Kaveh rolled his eyes and stood up, “why are you so worked u-” “Because you are right…I’m going to “Die” and I know for a fact you won’t miss me” Kaveh walked off but Alhaitham had quickly caught up to the shorter male “Kaveh…” “is this how our relationship is going to be now? Just some “Toxic” one sided love-game?” Kaveh sighed, stress clouding his partially matured voice…

“Kaveh…I’m just trying to save you-” “save me from what? Wanting to have a healthy relationship with you?” Kaveh looked at Alhaitham, the silverette’s eyes filled with an emotion he rarely shows…worry and concern while the blonde’s eyes…hatred and anger. “I’m trying to save you from yourself-” “save me? From myself? You’re kidding…right?” Kaveh couldn’t contain himself, his heart was racing like a horse and his stomach had dendro crystal flies in them. “It’s your constant self sabotaging and ego that I’m saving you from…” Alhaitham had composed himself, his heart pounding twice as fast as his counterpart. “Oh? “Self sabotaging?” do enlighten me, Alhaitham, I am all ears” the blonde; sarcastic and dramatic as ever. “I could count on both fingers on the things you do…coming late to class, staying up late to finish school projects or do architecture, your confidence and tendencies to be dramatic, sleeping during the day, staying up all night making noise as you hammer away, skipping at least 1 or two meals a day no matter what I say…sulking without me to help” Alhaitham took a deep breath and sighed “you only hear things you want to hear and you can’t take a simple joke, Kaveh. You think I wouldn’t miss you if you died? Do tell me…who do you take me for? I sure hope it isn’t “a coldhearted sadist”” Alhaitham now had tears forming at the corners of his eyes…something rare and only Kaveh ever seen him break.

Kaveh looked at the silverette with slight shock “y-you…heard that…?” the blonde asked and Alhaitham leaned against a wall and crossed his arms “I didn't just hear it come from your mouth…I also happened to read it…you think I don’t want to keep a close eye on you?” Alhaitham took another deep breath and sighed; his eyes filled with more worry than ever. “I…I’m sorry I-” Kaveh looked away and then back at Alhaitham who then put a hand on Kaveh’s shoulder “you know I love you…right? I just show it…differently…” Alhaitham’s eyes that were once filled with worry had became those filled with sympathy and regret. “I just want you to take care of yourself…you know this is my last year…you will be a 4th year without me soon…I want to make sure you know what you are doing” Kaveh nodded his head sadly and sat his head on alhaitham’s shoulder “I know…but you’re asking way to much of me-” “again…your ego, Kaveh. All I am asking is for you to take better care of yourself. Thats all I care about but its…something you tend to not care about-” Kaveh sighed and nodded his head slowly in agreement “I’ll…I’ll try-” “don’t just try, I know you are more than capable, Kaveh” 

                                                              “Because I love you”

*Back to Diluc POV*

A few hours after Alhaitham and Kaveh had left an announcement had been made around the school…

“The Class Trial will Now Commence. I sure Hope You potential killers had gathered enough evidence, make your way to the elevator on the first floor of the school; also someone go grab those two lovebirds sulking on the second floor it's getting too cheesy.”

“Lovebirds?” I asked, confusion clouding my voice. “Alhaitham and Kaveh” Zhongli replied nonchalantly and sighed “yeah but why did Monokuma call them-” I just realized while attempting to ask that question “yeah” zhongli said vaegly…he sounded…concerned…practically tuning me out after that “I guess i’ll go grab them” Zhongli sighed as he stood up from his seat.

                                                      -Truth Bullet Unlocked: Kaveh and Alhaitham’s Whereabouts

12 minutes later we were all in the elevator, Kaeya was oddly quiet, Tartaglia was giving sucrose a death stare which made her freak out( what was that for?) Venti once again was playing with his braids, Kaveh was leaning against Alhaitham with the silverette rolling his eyes in defeat due to his boyfriend’s sudden action and Beidou and Dehya were having an indistinct conversation about something with Xinyan joining in on it. As we went in the trial room Kaeya had whispered something “meet me in my dorm room after this trial is over; I want to discuss something.'' That was honestly random but whatever it may be it must be important.

My podium was right next to Kaeya and Kaveh with me being in the middle (was there a reason why Monokuma assigned me & Kaeya to stand next to each other?)

                                 “UPU PUPUH LETS COMMENCE THE FIRST CLASS TRIAL!”