A.N: Before we get started with the second part of this chapter, I'd like to address some special thanks to my favorite Guest reviewer for their last review. It means a lot to have your support, and while I'm not able to directly reply to you, your reviews mean as much to me than any other I receive. I hope you, and everyone else will enjoy this second part!
Chapter Fifteen: Making Sure We Hope Together
"Are you sure that's a good idea, Makoto?" Kyoko asked, still visibly very doubtful. "He isn't one to have his time being wasted, and while I could never consider spending time with you a waste of time, I know he definitely could. And all that… for a piece of gossip?"
"Nah, you worry too much there, Kyoko! I'm sure it's gonna be fine!" the Ultimate Lucky Student told his girlfriend with a bright smile. "And he changed, so I'm sure he's not gonna reject me right away." Or at least I hope so… There's some juicy info to be found there, I'm sure of it!
Seeing his eagerness to know where everyone stood on the 'not-love-square' situation, Kyoko sighed and said "Very well. I'll come to check on you during the afternoon. Make sure I don't find you beaten up on the floor, alright?"
"Yeah, don't worry. And if I see that I'm annoying him, then I'll just leave. Don't want to end up like Toko did…" a sigh of his own concluded that statement.
In fact, the day before, the Ultimate Writing Prodigy had not made it back to the dorms by nighttime without a few bruises on her booty from being kicked out so often of the library Makoto was planning to go to. And since Toko Fukawa wouldn't be Toko Fukawa if she didn't have that masochist side to her, she continued to try, although that did her more harm than good - this had actually been the case from day one.
"Yes, you do that. I'm still baffled someone in their right mind would want to spend any amount of time interacting with him when it's not absolutely necessary, but thinking that way, I would still be a heartless detective and my past would still be haunting me, so you do you, Makoto." the girl told him with a grateful smile, knowing all too well that if there was someone who could make anyone open up, it had to be her boyfriend.
You're still grateful that I helped you, aren't you Kyoko? Makoto wondered, looking fondly at his girlfriend. That makes me proud. Proud to know that, as talentless as I am, I managed to help someone this much, and especially someone as awesome as you.
With one last kiss on the lips, the two lovers parted, the detective back to her room, and the Ultimate Lucky Student towards the library, where he'd try to get as much gossip as possible…
When Makoto entered the library, a long and frustrated sigh was the first thing he heard.
"Makoto," Byakuya said, setting his book down on the table in front of him. "Might I know what brings you here? I had enough of Toko for the week, if not the entire month already today, so you might need to know that I am quite on edge."
Yeah, that passive-aggressive tone shows it… The Luckster mused, wincing as his classmate didn't waste any time showing his annoyance. "I just came to talk, I thought it'd be nice." No way am I telling him why I really came, though!
"Then leave. I don't need anyone to waste my time."
Okaaaaay… Well, so much for that…
In fact, the Togami heir was sitting where he always was, a book in one hand and a cup of coffee in the other, with a lamp providing him with enough light to read properly. Makoto was beginning to wonder what books he had not already read, considering he spent almost all his free time in there, but he didn't want to ask any questions the Ultimate Affluent Progeny would deem pointless.
"Oh, come on! Chatting a bit can't be that much of a waste of time now, can it?" the Ultimate Lucky Student said, trying to convince him.
A futile attempt.
"It is. For someone like me to spend any amount of time with a commoner such as you or the fourteen others is an insult to the Togami name." the heir shot back, still very calm. "You should consider yourself lucky that I graced you with my presence inside this building."
Well, it's not like we really had a choice… The boy thought. Indeed, the sheltering plan had not really been a choice, but more of an obligation for anyone who cared enough for their life, Byakuya being first on the list. But then something came to mind for Makoto, and he couldn't help but smirk.
"Even if I were Celeste?" he asked, making sure the heir could see him.
"Hmph. Might I know where that came from?" Byakuya questioned, closing his book once more. "I never figured you were the teasing type, Makoto Naegi."
"Well, I'm not really teasing, you know…?" Geez, sometimes speaking to Byakuya is a pain… "If I were Celeste, I'm sure you'd be willing to give me some of your attention. Actually, let me rephrase that, you don't mind giving me some of your attention, but you just don't want to admit it, am I wrong?"
The affluent progeny chuckled - a rare occurrence, when he wasn't mocking someone - but then looked at Makoto with a challenging expression.
"A bold assumption, Makoto," he told him with assurance. "I'll admit to one fact, and one fact only, and it's that while I do not particularly appreciate it, living with you plebeians did show me a side of the world I had failed to know in the past. The elite, the 1%, meeting the lowly humans, the 99 remaining percent… It wasn't as boring as I thought it would be."
A hopeful smile graced the lucky student's lips as the heir said that… only to be taken away a second later.
"Don't get too excited. It wasn't boring, but that doesn't mean that you're any good, all fifteen of you. Perhaps better than a majority of commoners, but nowhere near an elite level yet. Being among the best in one field doesn't make you anybody relevant."
Yeah, I thought that was too easy… Makoto sweatdropped, as this was some usual Byakuya speech. We'll have to take it one step at a time, it seems like.
"But for the sake of argument, and because you might actually be the sharpest tool in the plebeian shed, along with the one you are so enamored with, I'll let you develop your argument." Byakuya conceded, pointing to a second chair. Seeing Makoto not moving for a couple of seconds, he added "Come on, quicker! Don't make me repeat myself."
"Y-Yeah, sorry…" he sped up a bit, sitting in front of his classmate, who rather than looking interested in any kind of conversation, looked interested in seeing if Makoto could make his time worth it. I guess the moment he deems me uninteresting is the moment I have to leave or he kicks me out…
"So, you claim that I don't want to admit to the fact that I actually appreciate you plebeians' presence, and in particular Celeste's presence, correct?" the future CEO asked, Makoto nodded in response. "Now, even among lower people, you seem to have a good deal of intelligence, so I suppose I won't need to hide that Celeste and I have gotten quite close over the past few months, ever since the school party. However, this is only, and I insist, only, because her views of this world match mine. Well, she's still a commoner, but her mind is in the right place."
I don't think he's lying about that. The Ultimate Lucky Student realized as Byakuya looked as serious as ever, not showing any kind of embarrassment that might show a lie. So, he truly cares about Celeste just for their matching views… she'd be sad to hear that!
"But before you continue to state the obvious, yes, I am quite aware of her romantic passion for me, as stupid as it might be." he continued, making the other boy disappointed for the Ultimate Gambler. "As I said, she might have the right ideals, but she's still nothing more than a commoner. I am already crossing lines by associating myself with the bunch of you, but my romantic partner being a plebian is out of the question."
Ouch…! Way to reject Toko, Celeste, and Hina at the same time! "R-Really? Isn't that a bit cold, Byakuya? We might be commoners, but there's more to people than their social status compared to yours. I know that if Kyoko thought like that… a talentless boy like me would still be alone, and I never would have become her boyfriend." Makoto said, trying to sway the one he considered a friend over to his side.
"Perhaps, but Kyoko's Kyoko, and I am me." he easily replied, something Makoto couldn't disagree with. Maybe their views were different, but it wouldn't be cool of him to force his onto the Ultimate Affluent Progeny.
No, he would instead try to sway him with genuine actions. Perhaps it would be a waste of time, but maybe it could work!
"Yeah, you're not exactly wrong on that one…" the Luckster had to concede. You gotta know which battles you can win.
"Of course, I'm not wrong. Who do you take me for?" this comment made Makoto sigh. "Now, are we done?"
"Hm, well… Since we were talking about views of the world, why don't you tell me more about your world, since you often say that our worlds are nothing alike?" Makoto asked with a smile and genuine interest. "I'd be very interested."
"Hmph, I suppose there is no harm in telling you, even if I doubt you'll understand a thing of what I'll say. Our worlds are indeed quite different. Diametrically different, I should say." the heir said before sighing. "Very well, what do you want to know?"
"Well, first off…" I need to make this one count! He thought, making sure his question could give him some info he wanted, without annoying the affluent progeny. "You said you couldn't have a 'plebian' as a girlfriend, but you'll need to be with someone if you want your family to have another heir after you, right? So… who are you allowed to have a child with?"
Byakuya's eyes widened in surprise before he spoke up. "A remarkably wise question, coming from you, Makoto. You truly are making progress," he said, and considering how genuine it felt, it made Makoto proud. Byakuya Togami, the one who claimed to be over everyone, had praised him for his wisdom… "I'll keep my answer brief, however. The Togami family, for several generations now, has reproduced among the other elites of this world, with a peculiar inheritance system being in place. The leader of the Togami family ensures the continuity of the name by having as many children as possible with elite women around the world. None match the greatness of the name I carry, but it needs to do. Unfortunately, with the despair-inducing events taking place now, I am afraid that other than my family, the world's elite will be in a poor shape…"
"Yeah, it all started as a revolt against the privileged Ultimates… and the outside world's elites were next…" it hurt Makoto to know he had had privileges he didn't deserve. He was no better than the late Reserve Course students, so this truly was unjust. However, he just couldn't condone violence to fight against injustice, as much as he disliked the way the Steering Committee had done things.
"Correct. And I am now faced with a question even I am not sure of the answer…" Byakuya admitted, deep in thought. "As a Togami, any woman I want can be mine, there can be no doubt about this. However, it is in my family's interest - and thus in my interest as well - that the ones who'll carry the potential heirs to my family are part of the existing elite. But if said elites were to die, then…"
"You'd be forced to reproduce with 'commoners', right?" Makoto finished and got a nod.
"Indeed. That would be quite troublesome." the heir stated. "But I suppose that the elites who'll perish during the Tragedy were not worthy of being part of the elite, to begin with, so the cards should be redistributed quite nicely. And who knows, perhaps even commoners like you might find their place among this world's elites in these troubled times?"
He, for once, smiled at him, showing that he meant every word. It was rare for the Ultimate Affluent Progeny to utter even one kind word, so Makoto took that to heart.
"A part of the elite, huh?" the Ultimate Lucky Student echoed, giggling. "I'm not sure I could be a part of that, to be honest. My family is from the middle working class and I do not have anything that could make me part of the elite, now or ever." Although they did say that anyone who graduated from Hope's Peak would be part of this 'elite'… Well, I suppose that doesn't matter anymore…
"Well, yes, I'm not getting my hopes up too high either." Byakuya immediately agreed and got an eye-roll from Makoto as a response. "I could offer you a job as my secretary when this is all set and done if you want. The salary is $550,000 a year, for your information."
"W-What the?! $550,000 a year?!" What the actual hell?! "B-Byakuya, I know you're rich, but still?!"
"You have no reason to refuse." the heir assured him. "This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance I'm giving you right now. I think you might have what it takes to rise above the 99%, I'm simply offering you a little push."
He seems serious about it… Makoto thought, blinking rapidly in shock. I don't want to be rude, but I don't think anyone would *want* to work for Byakuya… But that's a lot of money… if money is still worth something, that is.
"I'm sorry, but I'll have to decline, Byakuya."
"Hm, what was that?"
"I can't accept such an offer, as generous as it might be." the lucky student repeated. And I'm pretty sure there's a catch somewhere and I'll have to lick your feet or something, so nope…! "It would be taking the easy way, and I can't have that. My parents worked hard to make sure they could raise me and my sister Komaru to be good citizens, and I wanna honor their ideals by not taking the easy route either. I want to find my own battlefield… I want to find something I'm willing to fight and die for. That's the only way I'll be satisfied."
As Makoto concluded his little speech, Byakuya took on a thinking pose. "I expected no less from a commoner, but I suppose you're at least true to your words. Hmph, you passed my test, Makoto."
"Huh? Your test?" So *there* was a catch to that offer!
"Yes, as good a commoner as you might be, the thought of you being my secretary makes me uneasy, if not actually ill." the future CEO explained, without any remorse. "Still, the offer for the yearly $550,000 stands. Feel free to ask if you ever need it. I won't let anyone say that I do not honor my words."
To offer me money to do nothing… I doubt there's anyone on this planet other than Byakuya Togami who'd do that… But at least I feel like I've gotten closer to understanding Byakuya, although there are still many things I can't quite comprehend…
Kyoko passed by a few of her classmates on her way to the library, handwaving back at some, ignoring others. In a nutshell, 'others' basically meant Junko and Mukuro, as well as Toko. The Ultimate Detective had befriended the class, but she still had her limits.
I know Makoto would want me to get along with everyone, but there are people I just can't get along with. Junko's personality is detestable, Ikusaba is someone I look out for, and Toko is Toko. She mused, reaching the door. And of course, there's him… *sigh*
She opened the door, revealing the Ultimate Lucky Student and the Ultimate Affluent Progeny talking to each other near where the latter liked to read his books. This was a surprise for Kyoko.
It looks like Makoto managed to keep Byakuya's interest for this long. This is a feat of its own, really.
"Oh, it looks like our esteemed Ultimate Detective decided to join us," Byakuya said as he noticed her standing at the door. The mocking irony in that statement didn't go unnoticed by Kyoko.
"Hey, Kyoko!" Makoto called her out, smiling. "What's up?"
"I just thought I'd come and check on what the two of you were doing since it's been a little while since you've left," she explained, walking inside. "I'm glad to see our esteemed Ultimate Affluent Progeny didn't beat you up while I was gone."
She directed that statement right at Byakuya, who simply 'hmphed' in response. "It would be undignified of me to use my hands on a commoner, Kyoko. And for the record, I'll admit that Makoto's presence was sufferable, a rare feat, among you all."
"I'm very glad to hear that. I always thought no one of us commoners could keep you entertained, except for Celeste." the lavender-haired girl shot him back, smirking. "To hear that my boyfriend can keep you as good of a company as your girlfriend can, you'll make me jealous, really."
"Watch your words, Kirigiri." the heir advised with a darkening tone. "This plebeian's presence has been acceptable, but that doesn't mean that yours is," he added, pointing at Makoto. "If you just came here to insinuate foolish things, then I suggest you and your boyfriend leave before I kick you out as I did Toko."
"You're welcome to try, Byakuya, although I'd suggest you reconsider your plans before doing anything that could land you with a high-heeled boot pinning you to the floor," she warned him, putting her stoic mask back on and not letting any emotion show. "I doubt neither Celeste nor Toko would take it well to see you like this."
Byakuya gritted his teeth in annoyance. "Will you stop at nothing to try and prove falsities? You should know that I already went through Makoto's questioning regarding that issue. I was actually surprised to know a commoner such as him had an interest in the lifestyle of the chosen one."
He's slowly starting to get on my nerves… Kyoko thought but made sure to keep that emotion in check for the time being. "You call Makoto a commoner, Byakuya, but you don't even realize that he's a far better man than you are. He respects you enough to listen to your arrogant and narcissist self-praise, so I think you should listen to him some more. Trust me, there is much you could gain by listening to him."
"Hmph, I think you're quite mistaken, Kyoko." Byakuya let out a mocking chuckle before standing up and pointing at the Kirigiri detective. "I do not owe anyone any form of respect. Because while you were inheriting your family's detective teachings, I was fighting with my life to earn my greatness. I became the chosen through countless fights, and I now stand atop this world as the Ultimate Affluent Progeny. You couldn't even grasp what I went through, even if you tried."
"Oh, believe me, I have other things to do than to try and comprehend you, Byakuya," she told him, not backing down. "And you might consider me however you like; you won't hear me complain. However," she paused, giving him her Kirigiri glare. "you haven't heard the last of me if you continue to treat Makoto this way. Because while you were fighting those countless fights of yours, Makoto made me change, and I now stand stronger for it."
She pointed her own finger at him, the atmosphere tensing as she did so.
"Trust my words, Byakuya Togami, never in a million years will you be half as good as Makoto Naegi is, even if you try. You belittle others; very well, I won't stop you. But there is something you lack, and it's what will make you fall from your pedestal one day. It's what other people call having 'feelings', Byakuya. And all you can do is mock them for it. A friendly word of warning - someday that attitude is going to come back and bite you. Hard."
It's what Makoto made me understand, and I won't let you look down on what he taught me, Byakuya.
The Togami heir simply smiled. "You'll forgive me if I'm not quaking in my boots. Why, I never knew you had that much sentimentalism in you, Kirigiri… What happened to the heartless and emotionless Ultimate Detective we all came to know? Was all that washed away by your beloved's foolish sense of emotionalism? A shame."
"G-Guys, calm down!" Makoto finally spoke up, seeing his two classmates glaring at each other. "Our situation is already bad enough as it is! We don't need to add internal conflicts to the mix!"
The two Ultimates kept quiet, unable to deny the Luckster's words. Perhaps they didn't like each other, but their situation called for unity, not division. Makoto tried his best every day to achieve that unity, but there were still people between who it simply didn't work.
Kyoko knew that and actually felt some guilt. She was his girlfriend, and the very least she could do was not ruining his efforts to bring everyone together.
I am acting petty… She thought. Makoto deserves better than that. I shouldn't have let myself carried away by Byakuya's taunts…
Smiling at her favorite Luckster who had once again made her realize she was wrong, Kyoko said, "Yes, you're right, my apologies. I'll be going now. Makoto, feel free to come and knock on my door. As for you, Byakuya, I still think you should give my words some thought. I trusted in Makoto's words, even if it took me time, and I benefited from it. You should too, or you won't even realize just how much you're missing on. Goodbye."
"Later, Kyoko!" Makoto said with a wide smile and a wave of the hand. Meanwhile, Byakuya stayed silent.
With one last bow, the girl headed for the door to return to her dorm room, smiling at the thought of her boyfriend's countless attempts at making her change into who she now was, fruitless until he finally got through to her.
I wonder if Byakuya will get the hidden message in my last words…? Knowing him, it's most likely he won't even consider them, but he really should. Loneliness will only get him so far.
Could Kyoko have been talking about *that* when she said that Byakuya should give her words some thought? Makoto wondered, deep in thought. I mean, she's not wrong… if he doesn't realize that the way he's acting right now will only get him to be all alone when this situation is over, then he'll probably regret it…
"Naegi. I have a question for you." Byakuya said, breaking the lucky student's train of thought.
"A-Aaah!" Makoto jumped in place, not expecting to be called like that. "Y-Yeah, what is it?" He took me by surprise there! I wonder what he wants to ask me?
"Kirigiri's last words. What do they mean?" he asked straightforwardly, sitting back on his chair. "You know her better than anyone; you should know. I have this feeling that her words had a hidden meaning to them."
"What Kyoko meant?" So he did bring it up, after all… I'm surprised he didn't just wave her words off and change the subject… "Well, I think she meant that you should try and become friends with everyone instead of looking at them as nuisances. It might be hard for you to do so considering your family status and all, but… really, you're missing out on a lot, Byakuya."
"… Is that what she meant, then? If I didn't know better, I would think you were the one doing the talking back then." he stated, making Makoto blush a little. "There is something you need to understand, however, Makoto. Until I'm proven wrong - which I defy you to try and do - I will not agree to your naïve thoughts of friendship. Some of you - the likes of Celeste or yourself being prime examples - have managed to get my attention, however, we are not friends. I hold you in higher regards than I'd do other commoners, but we are not friends."
"Byakuya…" Makoto sighed. "I consider you a friend, you know? Perhaps you don't see me this way, but I do. And I know for a fact that there are plenty of others who see you that way. Or at least, who would want to see you that way."
"Pray tell, who?" the heir questioned with an eye-roll. "I am well aware that many in this class dislike me, and I frankly couldn't care less. Outside of you and your blind trust, and the likes of Toko and Celeste who seem to be blinded by their unhealthy adoration of me, although to different extents, I doubt anyone sees me as a 'friend', as you put it."
"No, that's wrong!" Makoto exclaimed, making the affluent progeny raise an eyebrow. "You don't see it because you think our class is like your family! No one's here to fight you over your title, Byakuya! The thing is, since you distrust others so much, they don't want to get to know you better! But I know that you're not just an arrogant guy with an overinflated ego!"
This earned him a glare from the Togami heir. "S-Sorry, but that's what most people think! You didn't show them your good side, but it's not too late! The few people who've seen your kinder and more considerate side definitely know that you can be their friends, me first and foremost!" Well, not first, but I can't tell him *that*!
The Ultimate Affluent Progeny readjusted his glasses and spoke to answer. "My 'kinder and more considerate side', you say? Interesting… And who do you think has ever seen this 'kinder and more considerate side' of me you refer to?" he asked, quoting him with his fingers. "I don't exactly recall giving anyone favors."
"W-Well, what about Celeste and I?" Makoto offered, making sure to focus and not slip up. "We've seen you smile while chatting with her, and we wouldn't be here having this conversation if you didn't care about me at all. And I'm sure Kyoko would be willing to become your friend if the two of you actually tried to befriend each other instead of arguing pointlessly!"
"Fine, I'll concede that point," Byakuya said after a moment. "Perhaps I'll try to tolerate the others for a while." seeing Makoto's eyes lit up with happiness, the heir quickly added, "Don't get your hopes up. Only for a while, and if I realize that your ideas are as foolish as they sound, then I'll just continue to spend my precious time here, gaining knowledge and leave you plebeians to your lower lives, understood?"
Finally, some progress! Makoto thought, beaming with excitement. I was almost about to give up, but I seem to have found the words to get through to him! "Yeah! Don't worry, I'll make sure the others do their best to accept you, too!"
"Yes, you do that. For now, though, I think we've both lost enough of our respective time." the blonde said, looking at his pocket watch. "If you want to spend any time with your girlfriend, then I suggest you get going."
"Yeah, you're right. I'll give you some peace and quiet." the Ultimate Lucky Student said with a smile. "See you later, Byakuya!"
He didn't get an answer. I guess some things never change, do they? Makoto was happy as he came out of the library, realizing that at long last, he had gotten Byakuya to truly change. I've done my part, now it's up to him to make a choice…
Day Two-Hundred and Sixty-Nine:
As I said I'd do yesterday, I spent most of the afternoon with Byakuya today. It was… an experience, but I feel like I got to know him better, and I really think he's changing for the better. It was a long and tough battle, but I'm kinda proud I managed to make him change. Well, you'll be the judge of how well I did, haha.
I originally went there to try and learn what he really thought of the girls with a crush (if not an outright obsession) on him: Toko, Celeste, and Hina. Well, I didn't get to ask straight questions, so I had to be a bit sneaky and I asked him about his family and who he could have children with, since "plebeians" (I hope he stopped calling people that by the time you read this…) are apparently out of the question. And so I learned that the Togami family produced heirs by having children with women from the upper-class all around the world. He didn't tell me much more, but I suppose that they then have to prove their abilities to lead the family, which means that Byakuya was the best out of all of his siblings. Good for him, I guess…
But there's a catch, and he knows it. Future me knows better about how the world is doing than I do, but when it began, the Tragedy hit the elite first, so Byakuya isn't sure there'll be any women of his taste for him to have children with. Ah, rich people and their issues! ^^ Until then, who knows, perhaps he'll have changed enough to find interest in a girl from the class? I dearly hope so.
Among other things, he offered me a job as his secretary with an absurd salary, which I refused, before he told me that it was a test, anyway. I could still take the money if I wanted, but not the job (go figure…). For some reason, he seems to tolerate me more than the others, and I seriously don't know if I should be glad or not… I guess I'll look to the bright side of things and be glad.
We talked for a long time until Kyoko came to check up on me, and the two had an argument. One of my biggest hopes for you and the others in the future is that you managed to settle that argument issue between everyone. It's taking a toll on the group's mood, and we clearly don't need that right now (and neither do you, most likely). I had to stop them before things got out of hand, and I was lucky enough that Kyoko realized how silly they were being and apologized. I'm always happy when I see just how much Kyoko changed. She really is an amazing person, and I'm so glad I helped her. Hands down the best decision of my life.
And the better part for last, Byakuya agreed to try and befriend the others (or at least, get closer to them… I won't expect too much too soon or I'll be disappointed!) for a while. I'll have to do my best to make sure it works, or he'll just go back to spending his life in the library. And maybe he doesn't see me as a friend, but I do, and I always help my friends! So I'll make sure he understands just how great friendship can be, and if I succeeded, then you already know.
No luck for Hina right now, I suppose, but I don't think it's the last I've heard of this… If Kyoko got with me, of all people, then surely Byakuya can find the right person!
Your past self,
Makoto Naegi
*knock* *knock*
Makoto was as excited as ever when he came to knock on his girlfriend's door. Today was a special day, for more reasons than one. First off, even if the world wouldn't be celebrating it, today was December 25, Christmas Day. The class had planned a special lunch for the occasion, and he was looking forward to that.
However, this day also had another meaning to it, as it was the nine-month anniversary of their couple since their romance had begun on March 25, a time that seemed so distant to everyone. And thus, Kyoko and Makoto had planned to spend the entire day together, and the Luckster had lots of ideas of things they could do to celebrate another monthly anniversary. They had not missed one, and the special opportunity made it important that they didn't miss it today either.
The door opened, revealing the Ultimate Detective on the other side. "Oh, Makoto, hi." she greeted with a wide smile at the sight of her boyfriend. "Merry Christmas." How long has it been since I last celebrated Christmas? She wondered, unable to remember any familial parties, neither with her parents nor with Fuhito.
"Merry Christmas, Kyoko. And Happy Anniversary, too." he wished her, embracing her tightly. They pulled back quickly, and Makoto continued. "I can't believe it's already been nine months since we got together, but I'm as happy as I was back then. Things have happened, but I'm glad we're still there together."
"Why, of course! I have no intention of leaving you anytime soon, Makoto, don't worry." Kyoko assured him with a grin. "Especially with the news I have for you."
"News? What do you mean?" I didn't expect news! Let's hope for it to be the good kind of news!
Considering the smile on his girlfriend's face, the Ultimate Lucky Student was pretty confident that for once, instead of despair, this news would carry some hope.
"I'll explain. But don't be shy, come in." she invited him inside, and Makoto didn't make her wait, as he entered and sat on her bed while she closed the door behind her. "I prefer to close since this is pretty personal. Well, extremely personal, actually."
"It's personal? Did something come up with your father?" Makoto asked the first thing that came to his mind.
"Actually, yes, you're absolutely right." the girl said, seating next to her beloved boyfriend and removing one glove before taking his hand with hers. The unexpected skin contact made Makoto's entire body relax. "We had a talk yesterday, and well… I swallowed my pride and officially reconnected with him."
There was a moment of silence between the two, as Makoto's mind went on overflow. And just as the lavender-haired Ultimate was about to speak up again to break the silence, the Luckster wrapped her into another hug, even tighter than the last.
"K-Kyoko! *sob* I-I'm so glad!" he cried in her arms as she began to stroke his back softly. "I'm so happy for you! *sob* Y-You… You couldn't offer me a better Christmas present, even if you tried! K-Kyoko… I'm so proud of you… my love… *sob*"
"M-Makoto…" she began to tear up a bit in emotion, her boyfriend's loving words and affectionate gesture making her heart go crazy. It had been nine months since they'd gotten together, but Kyoko had never felt her love for the boy being so intense. They had continued to call each other by their first names, and the detective was completely fine with that. But now… hearing the boy she loved more than she loved anyone on this damn planet call her his love like that… "T-Thank you, Makoto. Thank you for all the help you gave me. Thank you for being there at all times. Thank you for being the one I so desperately needed in my life… I can't imagine life without you now, Makoto, and I'll make sure to return the kindness and love you keep showing me!"
Kyoko pulled away from the hug, only to look at the lucky student right in his hazel eyes and press a lovely kiss on his lips, which he didn't wait to return in full. Their passion and all their love for the other was evident, and they felt those feelings growing even stronger every second.
Perhaps their situation was grim, but God did those moments make up for that.
*driiiing*
After a few minutes of repeated kisses and whispering of nice words, they were interrupted by the high-pitched ringing of the Ultimate Lucky Student's e-handbook.
"Looks like I've got a message…" Makoto said as they were forced to pull away and he took out the device in question. "Let's see…" I wonder who it could be? As much as I would love to talk to them, Mom, Dad, and Komaru it's not possible anymore… And if the others need to see me, then they can just come…
"I'd make a guess and say it's my father," Kyoko said as her boyfriend opened the message. Once she got a quick look at it, she added, "Seems like I was right." I expected as much.
"Yeah, it's from your father. Let's see…"
"To Makoto,
Good morning, Makoto. I know today is a special day for you for more than one reason, but I would like to request a bit of your time as soon as possible. You might actually be well-aware of it by now, but there is something I would like to discuss with you. Feel free to come to my living quarters on the second floor of the dormitories. And please do not panic! I am not going to eat you!
- Jin Kirigiri"
"Hm, your father wants to see me… I don't want to turn him down, but we had planned to spend this day together…" Makoto said, a little disappointed. He was curious in speaking with the Headmaster, but he didn't want his plans with his girlfriend to go to waste as a result.
"It's okay, Makoto, you can go," Kyoko told him smilingly. "I'm sure he won't take too much of your time, and I can always wait a little bit. Besides… I think you need to hear what he has to tell you." Because I know what he'll say, and those are words you deserve to hear, Makoto.
"O-Oh, okay… Do you think I should go now, though?" the lucky student asked. "I don't want to miss Christmas breakfast with you!" I've been waiting for this day for so long, I want to make the most of it!
"Well, I'm sure my father can wait for that long, so we can go and have breakfast together, yeah." the detective answered, smiling as she placed her glove back on her hand. "Lead the way, Makoto."
With a nod, Makoto stood up and exited the room with Kyoko closely following him and closing the door behind them, on their way to the dining hall for the beginning of a very special day for the two lovers.
Spending Christmas with Makoto Naegi… Even if we couldn't buy presents, I'm most definitely looking forward to it. My first Christmas in years, with my boyfriend… I guess miracles do happen… She thought with a small smile.
Am I really going to spend Christmas day with not only my best friends but also Kyoko?! It's too bad we couldn't buy presents, but I'm sure it'll be a day for the ages nonetheless! I never would have thought I'd ever be spending Christmas with a girlfriend any time soon! He thought with his customary hopeful smile.
And as one, they headed to the dining hall.
Breakfast had already been such a treat; Makoto wasn't sure he'd be able to eat anything for the special lunch some of his classmates were already busy preparing. Hina had volunteered to cook - since it was food-related - and others had decided to help her, her best friend Sakura, as well as Sayaka and Leon, Chihiro, and, something that had surprised pretty much everyone, even Makoto - Kyoko.
I actually don't know about Kyoko's cooking abilities… Considering she spent her childhood with her grandfather training to become the best detective possible, she most likely didn't cook often. He deduced and was glad she had decided to try. But I'm sure she'll have a great time and that whatever she'll prepare will be great!
As for himself, Makoto was heading for the second floor of the dorms, where the Principal had his living quarters, eager to know what Kyoko's father wanted to talk to him about.
The second floor of the dorms wasn't somewhere the students often had to go to. They had lockers in which some of them kept stuff they either didn't have the space to keep in their rooms, or they thought were unrelated. The best example was Taka's, as the Class Representative kept all his school stuff inside his locker there.
As for Makoto, he didn't keep anything in there, but he knew Kyoko did, as she kept her former investigation notes there. She had put the case to rest when they had sheltered themselves in, knowing that even if she, by miracle, found the culprit behind the Tragedy, there wasn't much she could do about it.
Still, she had told Makoto that she had two main leads: first, she knew there wasn't one, but at least two perpetrators behind the Tragedy, probably a brain and its shield; and second, she was certain that the root of this evil had been firmly planted within Hope's Peak, possibly close to them. Though she had acquitted her classmates and her father right off the bat, and with the students of Class 77th out of the picture, it didn't leave her with many options.
In any case, the Ultimate Lucky Student had asked her to relax and take herself off her detective work, or else she would just be wasting her time. Jin had thanked Makoto for that, and for some reason, the Luckster had a feeling he'd receive some more thanks today.
*knock* *knock*
It didn't take long for the door to open and for Makoto to take in the sight of the Headmaster.
"Hello, Mr. Princi- um, Jin…" I'll NEVER get used to that! "I've received your message on my e-handbook, so there I am."
"Good morning, Makoto," Jin smiled at him, showing him inside. "Come in, and thank you for coming on such short notice. There is something of importance I needed to talk to you about, actually. Make it two, now that I think about it."
Two things? Makoto wondered as he sat on a spare chair Kyoko's father had pulled out for him. "Really?"
"Yes. Well, I'll begin with some news," the man said, pulling out his personal handbook. "I've received a message from my friend Koichi, who told me of a report by the Future Foundation on your families. There are… bad news, but I suppose your title means something, because none are about your family."
"O-Oh…" I don't think I can be happy to hear that, even if I'm delighted to hear that everyone is doing well back at home… "Do… Do the others know?"
"I will ask for those who have lost the most family members to come here, though I dread the time I need to tell them the news," Jin said, sighing. "Among them are Byakuya, whose entire family was found dead, and Sayaka, whose father has gone missing."
"W-Wait… W-What did you say about B-Byakuya…?!" I couldn't have heard that right! There's no way!
"You heard me correctly, Makoto, unfortunately. The Togami Family was the victim of a massive raid of despair forces and was reported dead by the Future Foundation. I… honestly don't want to be the one telling him that, but I have no alternative," he admitted, and the boy understood why.
Byakuya's entire family… perished? But he said they were the elite of the elite! They couldn't have died so easily, could they?! It didn't make much sense to Makoto, and he hoped his classmate would be able to endure the news. And then there's Sayaka… Her father was her only family, so for him to be taken away from her… She didn't deserve that!
Somehow managing not to cry, Makoto uttered a genuine "Thank you, s-sir… for trusting me enough with this…"
"You're welcome," Jin nodded, placing his handbook on his desk, and in this context, not pointing out that Makoto had called him formally again. "You are the one I trust the most, along with Kyoko, of course. And while this news is terrible, there are also signs of hope. From what Koichi told me, the district in which your family lives has been relatively unharmed, and your family is doing well. They can't contact us anymore, but apparently, your sister and parents send you words of love."
Mom, Dad, Komaru… I'm glad to know that you're holding on. Just… please, a little longer! Hold on a little longer so that I can see you again, and I can introduce you to Kyoko properly! "Thank you for telling me." the Ultimate Lucky Student said with a bow of the head.
"No need to thank me. Something else you might find interesting to know, Kyoko's grandfather Fuhito is also apparently doing fine, though he had to leave the Kirigiri household to find shelter," the man explained. "I have already informed Kyoko of this, although she didn't seem to care very much."
Kyoko's grandfather… The one who taught her to be a detective… Makoto recalled his one and only exchange with the experienced detective, when he and the Principal had argued so fiercely in front of his girlfriend. And the one who lied to her for so long… She seems to be bitter about this, and I can't exactly blame her either.
"Now, onto the second piece of information I needed to tell you about, and what I was actually referring to in my message earlier. I think Kyoko must have already told you, but she and I have managed to reconnect and mend our relationship."
That brought a smile on the lucky student's lips, one that was matched by the Headmaster's own smile.
"And thus… I feel like I needed to thank you, Makoto. If it wasn't for you and the trust you've put in Kyoko, I don't think she ever would have changed so much." Jin added gratefully. "No words can express the gratitude I feel towards you, Makoto, but know that you have it. And I know that if there is something we both like, it's to see Kyoko with a smile on her face, and this was all your doing. You've given me my little girl back, something that I couldn't do as her father. I still feel shameful for that, but for now, I doubt I have ever been happier."
And neither have I, Headmaster… Makoto smiled fondly, realizing that this was one story he'd be able to say had a hopeful ending.
"Alright, let's eat!" Makoto proclaimed as he and his fifteen classmates sat around the table, plates worth of dishes in front of them. "And Merry Christmas, everyone!"
"Merry Christmas!" they (almost) all cheered, raising their cups.
To say that the day's cooks had outdone themselves would have been an understatement: they had cooked a true feast for the whole class, and a wide variety of food now presented itself to the hungry Ultimates. Makoto was no exception, and he might actually have been the hungriest one of the bunch, as he dug in fervently, stuffing his mouth with food as if it were his last meal.
Kyoko sat next to him, and began to eat too, though much more elegantly. Perhaps her boyfriend had rubbed off on her, but not to that point. Still, seeing him acting childish from time to time made her giggle, and it did ease with her fears.
Because yes, Kyoko was scared. By a kind of coincidence she just couldn't explain, every dish the Ultimate Lucky Student had chosen had been prepared by her, and she feared he wouldn't like them. She was no Ultimate Chef, and while some of her classmates had given her a hand, this was still something she wanted to do on her own.
Whether or not she would regret it was still unknown to her. I know he craves for curry, so I put some in every dish, let's hope that does the trick!
"Hey, I don't know who prepared that, but it's really good!" the Luckster said, covering the voice of his classmates who were chatting among themselves. Man, this is almost as good as Mom's curry! And there's some in all the dishes I took!
"Oh, the curry? Kyoko made it!" Sayaka said, sitting on Makoto's right. "She insisted she prepared some curry, since she knew you liked it! See, Kyoko! He did like it!"
"You prepared this, Kyoko?! That's awesome! You hid your cooking skills!" he said, turning towards the detective who had more than a single pair of eyes on her.
The Ultimate Detective hid the faint blush on her cheeks with her hair, as the compliment pleased her more than she cared to admit. Being praised for something she did for the first time, by her boyfriend, no less… It did wonders for her confidence in her abilities.
"T-Thank you, Makoto… That is really kind of you," she shyly said, her boyfriend's smile making her blush redder. Hina nudged her on the arm and gave her a smile, too.
Before she could say anything, the boy went back to his plates, filling his mouth once more. The three girls, as well as Leon who was sitting on his girlfriend's right, all sighed. Perhaps Makoto was frail and small in stature, but he sure could eat like a glutton!
*burp* "Oops…"
Kyoko giggled and sweatdropped at the same time, her boyfriend's antics getting the best of her serious personality. How could someone who could have such a strong and serious side to him that he remained the most hopeful in this despairing situation also have such a childish persona?
She didn't know, and frankly, she liked him that way. "It seems someone here has eaten too much and will now suffer the consequences…"
"S-Sorry…" he apologized, and sat on his bed. I need to learn some manners…
"It's fine, Makoto," she assured him, smiling at him and taking one of his hands with her own. "With how much you've eaten, I wouldn't be surprised if you get a bellyache soon, though." she ruffled his hair playfully. "And deep down, you're a little boy, but I love you this way." And it changes from Grandfather's strictness…
She kissed him softly as proof, making him blush.
"Thanks, Kyoko. Now, what game do you wanna play?" he asked, pointing to the pile of Wii games boxes under his TV stand.
The girl inspected the names of the different games, thinking deeply. We play a lot of Mario Kart, and while it's fun, some change might not hurt… Super Mario Galaxy is a nice game, but it's not great for co-op, so maybe not… "Hm, what about this one?" Kyoko said, pointing to the game at the bottom of the pile. "I don't think we've ever played it before."
"Oh, that's Wii Sports Resorts! Great choice, Kyoko!" the Ultimate Lucky Student said with great excitement before standing up and collecting the game, as well as two Wii Remotes. "We just need to make sure we don't throw the remote into the screen and we'll be fine!"
"So I take it it's a sports game?" she deduced - not really needing any Ultimate Detective talent right there.
"Yeah, it uses the motion controls of the remote to replicate real-life sport!" he explained, showing that video games were a field of expertise he was familiar with. "I suck at sports, but Wii Sports Resorts has always been a game I liked. I played it with Komaru a lot when the Wii came out, and I'm sure you'll like it too."
"Well, doing some sport certainly can't hurt me," she stated, as her boyfriend booted up the console. "Though I doubt I have any chance to win against you, if you've already played before." And because I can imagine you playing for hours and hours against your sister, just to beat her! I know you better than you think, Makoto Naegi!
"Nah, that doesn't mean anything, Kyoko! I'm sure you'll do fine!" the game launched and showed the variety of sports available. "Now, what sport do you want to begin with? My favorite is bowling, as it's a classic, but you're free to choose."
Let's see… I see golf, basketball, archery… There are too many to choose from! She thought, unable to make a choice, so she just said "Then bowling it is. I'll trust in your tastes, Makoto."
Her smile as she said that made the boy giggle as he pressed A on his remote and launched a game of bowling between he and his girlfriend. They chose their own Mii, which they had created already a while back, and while not identical copies, they were certainly close enough to that that they couldn't be mistaken for anyone else.
"Okay, so the controls are relatively simple: you just press the B button and then swing the remote to throw the ball," he did just that, the ball rolling and taking down seven pins. "Just like that."
"I think I got the gist of it," Kyoko said, with a confident smile. "Perhaps I have a better shot at this than I first thought…"
"Well, I won't let you win because you're my girlfriend!" the boy said and threw the ball again, knowing down the three remaining pins and getting a spare. "There we go! Your turn, Kyoko!"
Makoto was really hyped up as the detective's Mii appeared on screen with the ball in hand. Kyoko did as her lover had instructed and swung the remote as she held B, the ball arching high before rolling into the first pin and taking them all down.
"H-Hey, you got a strike!" Why did I know this was gonna happen…? Makoto wondered with a headshake.
"Seems like I did," the lavender-haired girl simply said with a smirk. "Call it beginner's luck perhaps, but I feel more confident already. You're up, Makoto."
"Yeah, here goes!"
After a well-fought game of table tennis that had ended with Makoto barely edging out a win against his girlfriend, the young couple was now laying on the Ultimate Lucky Student's bed, as the Christmas movie the Luckster had chosen began to play.
"So, you've never seen a Tim Burton movie before, Kyoko?" he asked.
"That's right. Movies weren't something my Grandfather deemed useful to my detective training, apart from a couple of well-made crime movies," she explained. "I've heard of Tim Burton, but I've never seen any of his movies. So I'll trust you when you say this one's a good one."
"Yeah, The Nightmare Before Christmas is a great movie, I'm sure you'll love it! I've watched it I don't know how many times, but I always like it," the boy said, thinking back to the many Christmas parties he had celebrated with his parents and Komaru, when they would unwrap the presents, watch movies, play together, and overall have the time of their lives. Perhaps I can't have that, but spending Christmas with Kyoko is an alternative I had no right to ask for.
"But what's the point of watching it again if you have already seen it? You already know the plot, don't you?"
"Yeah, I do, but I want you to see it, so I don't mind watching it again! And if nothing, it'll be a nice trip down memory lane for me," Makoto told her, something that Kyoko couldn't completely grasp, but she appreciated the gesture.
"Thank you, Makoto." The fact that someone is willing spend their time with me is something I don't think I'll ever get used to… Kyoko thought, amazed by her lucky boyfriend's selflessness. "This is a nice Christmas present in and of its own, you know?"
"Well, I'm glad you see it that way, but being close to you means I won't waste my time, whatever I do," the Ultimate Lucky Student assured her, smiling as he caressed her cheeks softly before placing a kiss on her lips. "And some movies are such classics, you'd watch them thousands of times!"
Yes, I'm sure you would, Makoto… The detective sighed funnily as she focused back on the movie, excited to take part in something she knew basically nothing about, and with her boyfriend, no less. They talk about Christmas Magic, and while not everything might be perfect, I can see why.
Perhaps he loved the movie, but this had not prevented Makoto from falling asleep halfway through it, leaving the Ultimate Detective to watch the movie unfold for about half an hour alone, while the boy snored lightly.
She had already seen him sleep way back then, when she had punched him unconscious, and she didn't find him any less cute. And knowing that now, contrary to then, he was her boyfriend, and she wasn't the reason he was fast asleep made her feel better about it.
Honestly, the movie had been great so far, but Kyoko's focus was now more on the sleeping form of the Luckster rather than Burton's piece of art. Being in the same bed as Makoto was something she never would have expected to do, and while it wasn't for anything other than watching a movie, Kyoko felt it was a big step taken in their relationship.
And it did give her ideas…
I'd love to sleep with him soon… Perhaps I can show a strong and independent side, but I need comfort, and Makoto is the only one who can provide it… along with Dad.
She thought back to her chat with her father, the one that had allowed her to finally put the past behind her once and for all. Perhaps her boyfriend's title implied that he was the lucky one, but Kyoko knew that having the two of the three people she could call family by her side made her luckier than anyone in the shelter. She knew some of her classmates had lost much, the Ultimate Affluent Progeny first and foremost, and even if she didn't like him much, she felt bad for him.
She had lost much in the past, her beloved mother for example, and she knew what it meant to lose family. But now, she also knew how it felt like to reunite, and perhaps it didn't erase the past, but it certainly opened the way towards a brighter future.
And as she looked to her still-sleeping boyfriend, Kyoko knew that this brighter future was one she was definitely sharing with Makoto, because he had found a place in her heart that no one could even dream of replacing. 'Joined by the hip' wouldn't be the right way to describe the two.
No, they were bounded by links that couldn't be broken. Their relationship was still in its early stages, but the Ultimate Detective took comfort in knowing that it would last for a very, very long time.
"Oh, Kyoko, Makoto! Good evening to you two!" Jin said as he crossed path with the young couple in the first-floor hallway. "Are you heading to dinner?"
"Good evening, Dad," Kyoko greeted him back, smiling. "Yes, Makoto and I were about to join the others to eat," frowning slightly, she asked "Did something occur?"
Perhaps she changed, but my daughter is still an Ultimate Detective, so I suppose she has tendencies to worry even when it is not justified… The Headmaster thought, shaking his head. "Is she always worrying this much, Makoto?" he asked the Ultimate Lucky Student, teasing his daughter who began to pout.
"Well…" casting a glance at his girlfriend who was giving him a warning glare, Makoto made sure to consider every word before replying, "She has detective instincts, and she worries for others, me in particular, so yeah, but I can't blame her for that. I try not to worry too much myself, but there are still times I have doubts, and I understand everyone is the same."
"Yes, you speak wise words, Makoto," Jin said and got a nod of agreement from his daughter. "But I'm sure that with the others around, I have no need to worry about you two." Because you've already proven to be a far better help to Kyoko than I have, Makoto. Perhaps Kyoko forgave me, but I still carry the guilt of leaving her in my heart. "But to answer your question, Kyoko, no, nothing happened. I was just heading to the Dining Hall myself."
"Oh, do you have an announcement to make?" the detective wondered, walking with her boyfriend and her father.
"No, no, I don't. Your Class Rep Kiyotaka simply asked me if I wanted to be a part of your Christmas Dinner, and seeing how much he insisted, I had no choice but to accept," he explained.
"You'll be eating with us, sir?! That's great!" the Luckster said with excitement. "Taka had a great idea!"
"Indeed," Kyoko agreed quickly. "Taka might have tendencies I can't quite understand, but he has proven to be a good leader for our group. If not for people like you and Taka, events such as the end of the year party never would have taken place, and our situation might be completely different."
Ah yes, from what I collected, these two got together right around that time… The Principal mused. He was happy to know that the class had had a good time back then, as he definitely had not. Learning of the attacks against the campus and having to deal with the aftermath had not been pleasant. The Steering Committee told me for years that luck wasn't a talent, but we had students who were just out of the ordinary…
Yuki Yoshida's luck always protected her and her boyfriend, Nagito Komaeda's luck avoided him potential life-threatening situations, and now we have Makoto's luck… I think they would agree now. They're different types of lucks for sure, but for Makoto, it always seems to benefit everyone. With this, and with his hopeful nature, I'm sure he'll be leading this class towards greater heights sooner than the world might think…
"I-I'm sure you're overexaggerating…" Makoto said and blushed at the praise. "I'm not the kind of leader Taka is, and I doubt I ever will be…"
"And I say that you're wrong, Makoto," Jin told him. "I've seen enough students during my years as Headmaster of Hope's Peak to know when one has got what it takes to lead people. Take Kyosuke Munakata, the Future Foundation Vice-Chairman, for example; from the day he entered Hope's Peak, he knew he was there to accomplish great things, and he was born a leader. He led Class 74th as their representative back then and was even the Student Council President. Chiaki Nanami - rest her soul - from Class 77-B, was more like you, Makoto. You could ask Ms. Yukizome about her, she'd tell you just how great of a leader she was, even when it took her time to realize it. And you're next-in-line, Makoto. Perhaps you're not officially the Class Representative, but you lead this group spiritually, and you've continued to impress me ever since you've enrolled at Hope's Peak. And you shouldn't underestimate your own abilities, but I'm sure Kyoko has already told you this, many times."
"Yes, I have indeed," she confirmed, sending a disapproving look towards her boyfriend. "I keep telling him to stop considering himself as less worthy than everyone, but he can't quite seem to do so. Am I wrong, Makoto?"
"Hey, two on one is unfair!" Makoto said, and luckily, they reached the door to the Dining Hall just in time his girlfriend and her father wouldn't be able to embarrass him.
And as the three entered the Dining Hall and got seated among the other students, Jin felt a lot of pride to be the father of such an amazing young woman - even if he had not taken part in raising her. Kyoko Kirigiri had grown so much without him, and had pulled through and held strong even when times were the toughest.
And he was also proud of the student he felt the closest to calling his son, Makoto Naegi, the living proof that perhaps Ultimates would save this world and restore hope, but that among them all was a boy who matched the definition of an Ultimate to a T. Because what did it mean to be an Ultimate, you may ask?
Ultimate Trust, Ultimate Friendship, Ultimate Love, and finally… the one, true, Ultimate Hope. More than any talent, more than any artifice… what this world needs in order to rebuild… is an Ultimate Hope.
"Merry Christmas, Kyoko. I love you."
"Merry Christmas, Makoto. I love you too."
They joined for a soft kiss, not the hungry kind that rushed things, but the delicate one that took its sweet little time to explore the other more, and to convey its feelings to the other better.
And then there was the emptiness, the feeling of the other going away. It hurt Makoto every night when he went to bed; knowing that, deep down, there was a chance he wasn't waking up tomorrow.
There was a chance Kyoko wouldn't be there anymore.
There was a chance despair would strike, and there would be nothing he'd be able to do about it.
And thus, like every night, Makoto took his pen and began writing…
"Day Two-Hundred and Seventy-Five:
If there is something I know, future me, then it's that the end to my despair and the beginning to my hope has a name, and that name is Kyoko Kirigiri. I move forward, with hope in my heart, and I will continue to do so forever and ever, and as long as Kyoko Kirigiri will be there with me, we will never lose. Throw at us any despair you want, we'll always stand, and each time stronger than before.
That probably sounded either really badass or really cheesy, haha. I thought an epic introduction could do the trick for such an amazing day, and I'll let you be the judge of how well I did! Now, onto this wonderful Christmas Day, I can safely say that it was my best day ever since we sheltered ourselves at Hope's Peak. Heck, it might even be my best day since I enrolled at Hope's Peak! Getting to spend the day with Kyoko was an important part of why it was such a good day, because December 25th will always be an important date for the two of us, and not only for Christmas.
Nine months. The day we learned we had to live with despair, and the day I admitted to my love for Kyoko was nine months ago. Time flies by quicker than I ever thought possible, but every day spent with my friends and my girlfriend is some valuable time and some valuable experiences.
And this was more than an anniversary, too, especially for Kyoko. It took work and time, but Kyoko and her father have finally reconnected. Future me, you can't even begin to imagine just how happy this makes me. Well, you probably know, since you were in my shoes once, but you get what I mean. Ever since day one, I knew that even if she didn't want to admit it to herself, Kyoko wanted to reconnect with her father. It seemed obvious to me and I dreamed of the day she would finally mend their relationship, and I'm glad this dream became a reality. The Headmaster is someone I respect a lot, because even if he made mistakes, the concern and the love he shows Kyoko are genuine, and I'm sure he holds a lot of regret in his heart. He is a good man, and he and Kyoko deserve to be together. And I'm proud of my girlfriend, really. I have no right to even try to imagine just how hard living without your parents is, but Kyoko held strong, and she deserves that moment of happiness. The Headmaster is not my father, he's not my mother, and he's not Komaru, but he's part of the family, and I'm sure he would get along with everyone at home extremely well. You'll introduce him to Mom, Dad, and Sis, future me, okay?
Around a third of the class had prepared a special Christmas lunch today, and it was succulent! There were lots of dishes with curry, and this was the second-best curry I had ever eaten, only to Mom's curry - which I doubt will ever be beaten! And guess what, Kyoko was the one who prepared all that! Apparently, this was her first time cooking and since she doubted her abilities, she put some curry pretty much everywhere so I would like it. That was so considerate of her, and I absolutely loved it! My best meal in a while!
Then we went back to my room and played some video games, notably Wii Sports Resorts. We pretty much played every sport that allowed for one-on-one play, and I was surprised at how good Kyoko was at this! I swear, every time we play a new video game, she masters it super quickly! I still managed to beat her at a majority of sports, but that was thanks to my experience playing in the past with Komaru! Then we played some Mario Kart and some Board Game Island on Wii Party, and had a lot of fun. It's nice to see her relax and do something more casual sometimes. And I'm sure it makes her feel better, too.
And this wouldn't be a Christmas Day if not for a Christmas movie! So, Kyoko and I watched The Nightmare Before Christmas from Tim Burton, one of my favorites for Christmas Day. I watched it so many times with the parents and Komaru when we were younger, I know the plot by heart! Though I did fall asleep midway through, but I was tired! Writing these entries to you takes away my sleeping time, you know! ^^ I'm kidding, but more seriously, I really didn't want to fall asleep, but I'm glad because Kyoko told me she continued to watch the movie (although I'm sure she couldn't stop staring at me!). I probably disturbed her with my snoring, though! This was her first time watching a Christmas movie also, and I'm glad she got the chance to finally watch one, as it is almost a tradition, and one I was more than happy to transmit to her.
We didn't expect to meet her Dad when we went to dinner earlier, but we bumped into him in the hallway, and he told us that Taka had invited him to eat with us. He usually grabs his meal and goes to eat in his room, but it was cool to have him with us. After all, he's in this as much as the rest of us, and he took on a responsibility I'm not sure many would be able to shoulder. Headmaster of Hope's Peak Academy is a more difficult job than it looks like! I know that's not something neither me, nor future me would be able to do, haha! As we were walking to the Dining Hall, he and Kyoko began to praise me for who-knows-what reasons, saying that I was a 'spiritual leader' for the class or some nonsense… Come on, me, a leader? I do my best to help people, but I'm certainly no leader! Taka is a leader. Byakuya is a leader. I'm no leader! I don't know why they insist on saying that, seriously… The Headmaster even said I was next-in-line to the Future Foundation Vice-Chairman and Chiaki, the Class Rep for our upperclassmen! Well, Mr. Leader, I'll let you ponder on that! :D
And Kyoko and I just parted, as she went to her own dorm room. Perhaps I have never told you of this, but every time we need to part even for a single night, I fear that I'll never see her again. We're just a single room apart, and if it wasn't for the soundproof walls, she'd even hear me snore at night, but at the back of my mind, there's always that nagging feeling that she could one day be gone, or that I could possibly never wake up and see her again. So, for this reason, I ask you to always remain close to Kyoko. Do not cross her boundaries, as you know she's more than capable to ensure her safety herself, but make sure nothing ever happens to her. Never forget, future me, Kyoko is *our* hope, and she means to you as much as she means to me, and I wouldn't ever forgive you if you let something happen to her, as much as I know you wouldn't forgive yourself. Still, don't stress over that, as I'm sure you'll both be fine. You have to.
I'm rambling, and I'm realizing as I write that this entry is getting rather long. I think I'll head to sleep now, and give you some peace. Just know, future me, that whatever happened between the time I write this and the time you actually read it, that Kyoko is someone I'd sacrifice my life to save, and while I can't ask you to do the same if it ever comes (came?) down to that, keep in mind that I love her more than anyone, and that the world needs a girl like Kyoko Kirigiri. I know I do.
Your past self,
Makoto Naegi"
The boy set his pen down, closed the diary and put it safely inside a drawer, before standing up. He was crying, and he knew his tears had stained the page he had just written on, but he didn't care. If anything, this would just show him just how much he meant every word, whenever he'd get back to this diary.
Yes, he would die for her. Preferably, he didn't have to die at all, but he knew that if it was ever either his life, or hers, he'd save her, because she was able to solve any mystery, and he thought the world would be better off with an awesome Ultimate Detective rather than with an average Ultimate Lucky Student.
Would you do the same, Kyoko?
Little did he know, that only his Ultimate Hope could decide of that answer.
And so, he laid in his bed, eyes closing as he begun to dream of the past and of everyone's potential future, and just how he'd make sure he and Kyoko could hope together, along with their friends and everyone they cared for. Perhaps it would take a miracle to make it happen at this point, but Makoto would cause one if he needed to, because for him, living in despair wasn't living at all.
"Hope… keeps on… going…" he muttered in his sleep, smiling.
To keep going; that was the true challenge. But with Ultimate Friends, the challenge already seemed much less insurmountable. After all, nothing could go wrong at the Academy of Hope, right?
To be continued…
A.N: This was a loooooong chapter, and I think you understand why I couldn't exactly publish it in one part! FYI, it was 23,000 words long, and I doubt anyone would want to read something that long in one take! Anyway, I hope you liked this chapter, and if you did, please leave a review! Until then, have a nice weekend, everyone! ^^