(It was a normal day as any. Yuri had brought “Portrait of Markov” to school with her [jeez, does she always have that book on her?], Sayori’s depression just…vanished…for some reason, and Monika is working on a new poem. But one thing that I noticed just days before was how big Monika’s belly was - even though she’s never really told anybody why.)

Sayori: (putting a hand on my shoulder) “Natsuki, I know life’s been tough for you. But the festival’s going on today.”

Natsuki: “Hmph, I know. I’m not stupid, Sayori.”

Sayori: “I just thought it would be good for you to take your mind off things for a little bit.”

Natsuki: “Fine, I’ll go check it out. But don’t expect me to have any fun.”

(As I walked around the festival, I couldn’t help but notice Monika repeatedly rubbing her belly. I decided to approach her and see if she was okay.)

Natsuki: “Hey Monika, are you feeling alright?”

Monika: “Oh, Natsuki. Yeah, I’m fine.”

Natsuki: “Are you sure? Your stomach looks really big. Is everything okay?”

Monika: (despite being in pain) “Y-Y-Yes, everything’s okay.”

Natsuki: (concerned) “Are you sure? Do you need anything? I can try to help.”

Monika: (smiling weakly) “It’s okay, Natsuki. It’s just a little stomach ache. I’ll be fine.”

Natsuki: “Okay, just let me know if you need anything.”

(As I continued to walk around the festival, I couldn’t shake off the feeling that something wasn’t right with Monika. I decided to talk to Yuri about it.)

Natsuki: “Yuri, have you noticed anything weird about Monika lately?”

Yuri: “What do you mean?”

Natsuki: “Her stomach, it’s really big and she keeps rubbing it. But every time I ask if she’s okay, she just says she is.”

Yuri: (concerned) “That is strange. Maybe we should try asking her again. But this time, we should be more persistent.”

(But in the middle of the festival, we all watched as Monika collapsed on the floor - writhing in pain.)