Hello there. Pupla here, and I hope you are all fine.
I see that you decided to take a look at what I decided to do. That makes me happy to see that some people enjoy my work. You have no idea how much it means to me.
My thanks are first addressed to a friend of mine, King Kimi, another writer on this website. You're an awesome friend, buddy. I'm glad I decided to talk to you.
Anyway, this chapter will introduce the other characters, as I said last time. Consider this as the part 2 of the prologue.
Oh, and just before we begin, I decided to warn you: when they will attend class, the students (DR1, DR2, DR3, NDRV3, etc.) will wear their school uniforms, just like in DR3. An idea I had in order to make them fit more in their environment.
Anyway, hope you enjoy!
CONQUERING HOPE CHAPTER 0.5:
WELCOME TO THE ACADEMY OF HOPE
The huge school building was built on a prime plot of real estate in the very center of the city as if it was the center of the world itself. You simply couldn't miss it. And now, looking at the front gate of that super-amazing academy... Makoto Naegi stood, in his school uniform with his pin shaped like a four-pointed star overlaid on a crescent moon on his suit.
"I guess I can't just continue standing here like a statue... well, let's go!"
And with that, he walked toward the entrance hall. Nobody was here at the moment. Well, it was to be expected, considering that when he looked up at the clock that hung on the wall, the time was 7:28 am. Makoto went to the fourth floor, walking through the corridors, climbing the stairs to the fourth floor without any problems and without encountering anyone. As he walked towards his destination, he couldn't help but yawn. He knew that he was demanded because the Headmaster wanted to see him… he simply wished it could have been at another time of the day. Just when he arrived at the Headmaster's office, he wiped his mouth to wipe any drool visible and knocked at the door. A mature voice said, "Please come in!", and the Luckster entered the room, just to see the Headmaster of the academy, Jin Kirigiri, behind his desk. "Ah, Naegi-kun. You're right in time. Please take a sit."
Makoto did as obliged, and sat just in front of the desk. "You wanted to talk to me about something, sir?"
"Yes, Naegi-kun. Don't worry, this is nothing bad," Jin reassured with a smile. "I just wanted talk with about the progress of the different classes… especially the 79th."
"I see… Well, I don't think you should worry about it, sir. Everyone is doing well so far."
"I've noticed it. When I talked to the other teachers, they reported that all of the students were really acting as a class. The class 78, yours, have made very good efforts in terms of work and sociability between themselves, and they all managed to pass their first year of their school life here… but Ochitsuite-san, your teacher, noticed that you were the one who was mainly responsible for it."The Headmaster smiled at those words, making Makoto scratch the back of his head while blushing.
"Oh well, I-I didn't do anything that special, really! I just did my job!"
"Quite the contrary, Naegi-kun. It doesn't stop just in this class. The class 77-B, your seniors, are gonna pass their final exams in seven months, and they are preparing themselves. Yukizome-san, told me that they were working hard for that… and she also noticed that you had something to do with it… just like the class 76." He added, keeping his smile.
Makoto's blush grew brighter. "W-well, what wouldn't you do for dear friends of yours?"
"Oh, but it doesn't stop here. At the beginning of this year, you were assigned to assisting the new class 79-B with your senior, Komaeda-kun… but due to some incident, you had to do it on your own. That didn't stop you to do your job, as you say, and even though it tired you very much, you kept doing it. And even if Kizakura-kun is not-" he coughed "the best in his profession, he also heard that the new students here had some respect for you for what you did for them." He finished with the same smile.
This was it. The compliments impacted Makoto like bullets, and while he kept denying it… he felt of the chair. Jin stood up and went to the poor Luckster help, offering a helping hand. "Are you okay?"
"Y-yes, I'm fine sir." Makoto took it and stood up, then scratched the back of his head in embarrassment. "W-well, this was-"
"Don't worry, this will stay a secret between us." The Headmaster chuckled. "But that's true you know. You've been quite the popular one since you've arrived here, and your kind and gentle nature touched everyone. The students, the kids, even the teachers and the Student Council has taken a liking to you... I understand fully why you've been chosen to be your class's representative."
That's true, Makoto couldn't believe it himself. Upon entering Hope's Peak Academy, he thought that because of his talent, nobody would pay much attention to him. Heck, his so-called luck was pretty bad itself since he kept getting in trouble since he was a kid… or the trouble was only searching for him, in this case. If it depended on only himself; he would call his talent the Ultimate Unlucky Student.
Well, contrary to what he expected, his "luck" permitted him to be quite a popular student in the academy. Accidents, injuries and all other twists of unluck helped him to introduce himself better to the other classmates. Fortunately, it didn't stop here. At first called "the poor unlucky one", Makoto's ability to stand optimistic, understanding and kind slowly started to affect the others. Thanks to that, he was able to listen to the other's problems and help the students, but also the kids from the Academy's Elementary school, the teachers and even the Headmaster himself asked his help once, which was far than enough for choosing him as the class representative… which led us to today.
"W-well, I'm only being me, I guess." Chuckled the Luckster. "It's always a pleasure to help my friends."
"I expected as much from you," Jin answered, before giving to Makoto a worried look. "I've got some worries too, you know. Having so much work for everyone must be exhausting… even though you're not forced to do it."
Makoto sighed. "It sure is. There are so many things to do for so many persons." He then looked at Jin and smiled. "But even if I can choose not to do anything, I will help them. It's what friends are for."
Jin smiled. This kid never ceased to impress him. Sometimes he even thinks he should engage him as the academy's mascot or emblem or something like this. He then continued. "Well, I hope you're ready for what I'm gonna give you. It's important for all classes. First, you'll have to prepare your class and your juniors for their tutorial exams with Ochitsuite-san and Kizakura-kun respectively." He sighed again. "I wish you the best of luck in this particular case, knowing his laziness. Second, your seniors will also have to interact with the other classes in order to pass their exam. It's gonna be like with the 76th class, as you can imagine. Don't worry, Nanami-san will help you on this one." The Headmaster then handed the different documents to the Luckster. "Here is it, the modalities for each class exam. The Student Council were the one who decided for the first time…" he then smiled at his student again. "And again, it was a suggestion of yours."
"Y-you're gonna make me faint, sir…" Makoto admitted, blushing again. "It's not like I was alone on this one. Everyone in the Student Council was alongside me on this one. They deserve as much merit as me."
"I know. They're gonna know about this and I'll thank them as such." His expression then switched to a surprised one.
"Is something wrong sir?"
"No, I just remembered something. The very reason why I wanted to see you." He then smiled. "Congratulations. Your proposal was accepted."
…
…
…
Makoto blinked a few times before widening his eyes in realization "Uh? Y-You mean-"
"Exactly." The Headmaster answered immediately. "It was not easy, believe me. The Steering Committee can be a bunch of lunkheads when it comes to the school. But I managed to have it, and I wanted to give you personally the first exemplary." He then reached his hand with a sheet of paper with what looked like a formality. Makoto took it and examined it, and as he examined it, his face was one of glee… and for good reasons. Here's what was written on it:
Dear Reserve Course students;
You've been accepted into the Reserve Course, because you managed to get a grade good enough to be accepted in it. And at the very first day of your school life year, you've been told that there would be more exams to come, which could lead to your transfer in the Main Course.
What you didn't know, however, was that all of the grades you have acquired would count to a note that could be benefit you. Indeed, during your first year, we prepared something for the students who managed to outstand themselves… and for our greatest surprise and glee, all of you were able to gain our interest. So, it is with a great pleasure that Hope's Peak Academy present to you…
The Week of Adaptation.
As the name implies, for one week, the Main Course will be opened for every student, and you will be considered as Main Course students. You will be able to see what the school really looks like, and you will be able to meet the Ultimates. You will see what they have to do in order to prove they deserve to be called as such, and we hope it will help you to work even further in order to achieve your dreams.
The event will start on September Monday 11 and will stop on Friday 15. And in case you are wondering, there might be other events similar to this one in the future. It will serve as a reward for those who managed to move forward… and as an encouragement to those who feel like they are about to give up.
With all our respect;
The Steering Committee of Hope's Peak Academy.
Makoto could not believe it. He was shaking, except that… it was for joy and excitement. The thing is, during his first year, he'd met three people from the Reserve Course, which all expressed to him their desire of entering the Main Course. He could clearly see the jealousy in their eyes… and that's when he realized that so many people were paying a huge fee in order to enter a school that probably won't let them join it, while the lucky average person he was didn't have to do any of it… and honestly, he was ashamed of it. He has heard about the Reserve Course before thanks to some of his seniors, but he didn't know about any of the things the students there had to go through… all the while he was wandering around the school with no worries or restraints.
So he decided to take the matter into hands. As a class representative, he could talk with the Student Council in order to talk about it. And after some convincing, he started his very first task for this school: giving hope to those Reserve Course students by giving them a temporary access to the Main Course… which will be more often by chance. And now, he had the official document of the first step of this dream in his hands.
Jin said, "The news will be spread at 8:00 am when the classes will begin. And as such, since it was your idea, I expect you to lead this event. Munakata-san will help you on this one, and you can also count on the other class representative too, so don't push too much pressure on yourself, okay?"
Makoto took Jin's hand in his own and said "Thank you so much, sir! I promise I won't let those efforts done for nothing!"
Jin laughed a little. "Don't thank me, it's only a part of my job." He said. "Now, I think you should go to your class. It's gonna be time soon, and I bet they want to hear the news too."
Makoto watched the clock on the wall on the right side. It was 7:50, and he noticed that the meeting took almost all of his time. "Right! I'll see you at the event! Have a nice day! And thank you again!"
And with that, our Luckster took the documents and ran to the door, not caring about anything in the world. This was going to be a wonderful day for sure.
Makoto, happily walking towards his class, was wondering how the Reserve Course students were gonna react. Sure, he worked hard in order to obtain this, and he did it because some of his friends who were in there… the curiosity was taking the best of him. He was about to enter his classroom when suddenly-
POW!
A baseball collided with his face, knocking him out almost instantly.
"Oh shit! Naegi!"
The Luckster could only hear different voices… before losing consciousness.
Makoto was slowly regaining his sense. He could hear all the noises around him, and he could also feel the pain on his front head. He opened his eyes little by little to see-
"Ah, Naegi-kun! You're finally awake!"
He saw a young woman with brown hair and violet eyes. She wore a red jacket with a white shirt under it. She also had brown shorts and white sneakers. Her name was Katana Ochitsuite, the physical education teacher, and she was also the 78-Bth class's teacher. "Glad to see you're alive," she said with a smile. "That hit really hit you good."
"It sure did! Are you okay though?" Asked the Ultimate Pop Sensation Sayaka Maizono, looking to her friend, clearly worried. "Do you need me to take you to the infirmary?"
Makoto slightly blushed at this. "N-no, I'm fine Maizono-san! Don't worry about it!"
"You sure scared us a lot, Naegi-kun," said the Ultimate Soldier Mukuro Ikusaba. Makoto turned to her and saw her smiling at him… before she then turned to the Ultimate Baseball Star Leon Kuwata, narrowing her eyes, and said in her usual strict voice. "Kuwata-kun, I think you owe him an apology."
"Oh come on, girls! You don't need to tell me what to do!" Complained Leon. He turned to Makoto and then scratched the back of his head in embarrassment. "Hey, sorry about it, Naegi. I guess I overdid it again."
"It's alright, Kuwata-kun," the Luckster answered. "I simply wonder, why were you throwing a baseball out of nowhere?"
"W-well, I can explain to you if you want," answered the Ultimate Programmer Chihiro Fujisaki, who was a little nervous. "Y-you see, Kuwata-kun was telling us about one of his matches, and wanted to show us one of his moves..."
"And then ya know how it ended," the Ultimate Biker Gang Leader Mondo Oowada smirked at this. "Well, that ain't surprise me. Comin' for the dude who claims to hate baseball, but who play it anyway just to get a girl, it could only happen… as it always does."
"Hey! Ya didn't need to say that!" Replied an annoyed Leon. "'sides, I said I was sorry!"
"It doesn't matter, classmate Kuwata!" The Ultimate Moral Compass Kiyotaka Ishimaru raised his voice. "You have hurt another classmate because of your recklessness! You must be more careful with your talent! Not to mention, this is not the first time this kind of incident happens!"
"Indeed! Naegi Makoto-dono was lucky enough to survive this impact!" The Ultimate Fanfic Creator Hifumi Yamada agreed with the statement. "As expected from his talent… although I am quite unsure about considering this good luck or bad luck."
"This is indeed quite questionable," the Ultimate Gambler Celestia Ludenberg followed. She turned her head to Hifumi and smiled at him. "You didn't need to say this though, Yamada-kun."
Said boy began to sweat because he knew that behind this smile was hidden a great darkness which only waited to be unleashed. "O-of course, Ludenberg Celestia-dono. I'll keep quiet for now."
"Perfect, then."
"This aside, Naegi-kun," continued the Ultimate Martial Artist Sakura Oogami, "you've lost consciousness during two minutes. It's less than the other times." She then smiled at him. "It seems like our training session begins to pay dividends."
The Luckster scratched his cheek in response. "W-well, it's because of your training session with me, Oogami-san! I couldn't have done it without you!" The answer made Sakura slightly blush all the while bowing slightly her head, smiling at the praise.
"Here he goes again with his hope-filled nature…" the voice of the Ultimate Fashionista Junko Enoshima was heard… and it was a voice full of glee. She gave him her usual grin and her v-handed sign. "That's why we like you so much you know!"
Makoto couldn't help but blush at those words. As the Headmaster said earlier, he became quite popular in the school. And his own class was logically the first one to have a soft spot for Makoto. His personality, his desire to help others… and yes, it did involved incidents with his luck, especially with Leon and Mondo. But that aside, he really became an emblem to this class.
And then, Katana spoke. "Well, Naegi-kun, aren't you going to confirm that your decision was accepted by the Steering Committee?"
Makoto was taken aback by this. "Uh? H-how did you-"
"Hey, sorry Naegi-chi!" Exclaimed the Ultimate Clairvoyant Yasuhiro Hagakure with his smile. "You dropped the documents when you were unconscious, so Sensei had to tell us."
"O-oh…"
"Congrats, Naegi!" The Ultimate Swimming Pro Aoi Asahina cheered on. "That must mean a lot to you, right?"
"I-it sure does Asahina-san," Makoto replied, and then sighed in relief. "It's funny… I almost thought I would not manage to obtain this."
"W-why are you saying this?!" Replied the Ultimate Writing Prodigy Touko Fukawa, trying to cheer him up… in her own way. "I-if it's you then t-they would listen for sure, M-Makoto-sama!"
The Luckster looked at her and smiled. "Thanks, Fukawa-san. I really appreciate this, coming from you."
Said girl blushed at this and entered in her fantasy persona. "M-Makoto-sama…"
"Don't overjoy yourself because of this little victory of yours," the voice of the Ultimate Affluent Progeny Byakuya Togami was heard… and it was full of disdain as always. "Because this kind of thing means nothing in the real world." The others shot him a look full of annoyance, especially Touko.
"H-how could I have possibly fallen for a guy like you…"
The Ultimate Detective Kyoko Kirigiri coughed and then smiled at Makoto. "Anyway, Naegi-kun, congratulations. You deserve it." And then she began to applause him… a movement followed by many others, except for Byakuya.
"What a bunch of fools."
Makoto could not believe it. Almost all of his classmates and his teacher were cheering him up… he wondered sometimes if he deserved such friends. He couldn't keep his tears to come down. "T-thank you guys. It means so much to me."
"I can imagine," the teacher said. She handed a handkerchief to him. "Here. You don't want your eyes to end up red, do you?"
"T-thanks, Sensei…" he took it used it to wipe his tears. Then he asked Katana, "Did you told the others about the exams too?"
"Yes, I did, don't worry. And thinking about it…" she then regained her desk… and look at the class. "Listen to me now! Regarding the event of today, I'll let you guys have an exceptional daybreak, but don't forget that you have your exams to prepare! So I expect you guys to prepare yourself! Got it?"
"Yes, ma'am!"
The determination was intense in everyone's voice. Probably because of Makoto's presence which gave them strength… which is understandable, knowing that he was the glue that kept the class together during the first year. That permitted them to pass the first exam. At first, they were scared, but now… they were sure that they were all gonna pass. So now, they were all gonna enjoy this moment of joy.
It was now 10:00 am, and Makoto was now heading to the 77-B's classroom in order to give them the details of the exam. He knew their class representative probably told them anyway since she must have told them the information already, but he wanted to be sure. After all, he was assigned to help them, so it couldn't be helped… but as he was about to enter the classroom-
CHTAK!
Another thing came hit his face. This time, it was a flying ruler.
"*gasp* N-NAEGI-KUN!"
Once again, the impact slowly made him lose consciousness. As he heard voices approach him, his world turned dark.
Makoto was slowly regaining his sense... but it was way more difficult this time. Whoever threw this had great strength, this for sure. Which was odd, considering that Leon's throwing force did almost similar damages. All the noises around him were beginning to give him a headache, and he could also feel the pain on his front head. He opened his eyes little by little to see-
"Ah, Naegi-kun! You're finally awake!"
Makoto lifted his head up to see the former Ultimate Housekeeper Chisa Yukizome, who was now the 77-B's homeroom teacher. She gave a comforting smile to him. "Phew! I thought I really hurt you on this one!"
It made the Luckster of the 78th class blink. "Uh? You mean-"
"Yeah, it was actually Sensei who hit you," the Ultimate Yakuza Fuyuhiko Kuzuryu spoke, almost looking amused. "She wanted to make the others shut up because they were fucking noisy. And you blacked out like that."
"A-are you okay, Naegi-san?" Asked the Ultimate Nurse Mikan Tsumiki with a clear worried look. "Y-you were hit very hard, you know?"
"Well, obviously, due!" The Ultimate Traditional Dancer Hiyoko Saionji scoffed. "That hit was sent by Sensei, so of course he would be knocked out from this. What did you expect, honestly?" Chisa and Mikan almost began to cry.
"I said I was sorry…"
"Forgive meeeee…"
"Hey, be gentle, Saionji-san!" Reprimanded the Ultimate Photographer Mahiru Koizumi to Hiyoko, who only looked away. Mahiru then looked at Makoto and gave him a little smile. "Sorry about that, Naegi-kun. You just arrived at the wrong time."
"But do not fear, Naegi-kun!" The Ultimate Princess Sonia Nevermind spoke in a polite way with a smile. "Tsumiki-san didn't found any grave damage that could have possibly damage your ahoge!"
Everyone including Makoto sweatdropped in this comment. "...thanks, Sonia-san, but I don't think this is the most important thing here…"
"Don't underestimate your gift of Mother Nature, Naegi-kun!" The Ultimate Cook Teruteru Hanamura, although he would prefer to be called the Ultimate Chief, joined in. "Your ahoge is one of the many things who defines you, along with your kind personality!" He then started to slowly nosebleed. "Not to mention it can be used as a magnet for preys in order to steal their virgi-"
CRASH!
He was interrupted and sent in a wall by the Ultimate Team Manager Nekomaru Nidai, who took Makoto by the shoulders, lifted him up… and shook him while laughing loudly. "NAEGI! WE'VE HEARD ABOUT THE ACCEPTANCE OF YOUR PROPOSAL! AS THE ULTIMATE TEAM MANAGER, I SAY THAT YOU'RE THE SHIT!" Needless to say that Makoto was quite shaken with that.
"Nidai, cease this. You're only making him dizzy." The Luckster saw a hand on Nekomaru's shoulder, making him drop Makoto almost fell again… if it wasn't with two hands grabbing his shoulders. He shook his head, then turned his head to see the Ultimate Swordswoman Peko Pekoyama who smiled at him, "But he is right. This is certainly great news. Congratulations, Naegi."
"T-thanks Pekoyama-san," he answered with a smile, making Peko turn her head with a small blush and smile.
"Y-you're welcome."
"Oh! Oh! Ibuki just had a great idea right now!" The Ultimate Musician Ibuki Mioda put Makoto in an embrace, which made him slightly blush. "How about we do a super party for this, uh? You're gonna love it, Makoto-chan!"
Makoto laughed in a slightly amused way at her statement. "Y-you don't need to go that far. It's not that great…"
"Dude, are you kidding?!" Exclaimed the Ultimate Mechanic Kazuichi Souda with clear excitement in his voice. "Getting something from those old men is just, like super cool! It doesn't happen often, ya know! So let's enjoy this, alright? You let me take care of the settings, 'kay?"
"Yeah! And there's gonna need food, too!" The Ultimate Gymnast Akane Owari continued as she went to the Cook's emplacement and got him out of his hole… only to shake him. "You better do a good job at this, Hanamura!"
"Avril Laviiiiigne! I-I-I'll do the food, just please don't kill meeeee!" Yelled a scared Teruteru.
Makoto could only watch and sweat drop. "Y-you guys… I really appreciate it, but you don't need to-"
"Oh, but quite the contrary, Naegi-kun!" Spoke the Ultimate Lucky Student of the class 77-B Nagito Komaeda. "You've been helping us during this year and a half, and you made our life brighter every day with your kindness! As expected from the Ultimate Hope!" The others were quickly being annoyed as Nagito entered his fanboy mode again. "Such a brilliant and shining hope you're constantly giving us… I'm so glad to be alive with you as my underclassman!"
It was the Ultimate Impostor Zenku Mitarai, who decided to make his classmate shut up by placing a hand on his mouth, and then turned to Makoto and said, "What he tried to say with his own words is, we're happy to know you, and we thank you for helping us." He then smiled at him. "That's why I personally engage myself in helping you."
"I follow Zenku on this, Naegi-kun," the Ultimate Animator Ryouta Mitarai followed with a friendly smile. "It's the least I can do to the one who helped me for having more trust in myself."
Makoto blushed at this. "H-hey, I told you, you don't-"
"But of course we do!" Exclaimed the Ultimate Breeder Gundham Tanaka, who posed dramatically with his hamsters, the Twelve Zodiac Generals supporting him. "It would be quite a sin for us to not support the guardian who cleared our path with his dazzling light! Do not fear, for I, the great Tanaka Gundam, will be your comrade on this journey, my fellow familiar!"
A hand was leaded towards him. The Luckster lifted his head up to see the smiling face of the Ultimate Gamer Chiaki Nanami, the class representative who said in a happy and gentle manner, "You can count on me too. Not only as a class representative, but also as friends."
Makoto looked around to see the same expression on everyone's face. Yes, even Fuyuhiko had a smirk on his face if only a little. It reminded the Luckster how the class met him at the beginning. Once again, his luck was the thing that enabled the encounter. With him being charged with delivering the practice exams papers to his seniors... not to mention his incidents with something always flying to his face, he was able to meet them pretty often. Once again, his personality and his action for them made him a much-appreciated comrade, even though he was not a classmate of them. Even the teacher thought so.
So he took Chiaki's hand who helped him get up. "Thanks, guys. I really appreciate it."
"Anytime, Naegi-kun." Chiaki said with the same smile.
The former Housekeeper smiled at everyone's good mood and decided to do something about it. "Well then, class, it's good to see you so motivated! I guess that means you all must be excited about the next exams right?"
And then, every smile excluding Makoto's disappeared. Yes, celebrating this kind of event was far more enjoyable than discussing this kind of serious project. Chisa sighed at this. "You guys are incorrigible. When will you understand that this is for your own good, you rotten oranges?" She then turned to Makoto with a smile. "Naegi-kun, mind to help me on this one?"
"S-sure!" He answered almost immediately. Considering her abilities, he knew it was better to not refuse. Not like he really minded anyway. He was chosen to help them, so he would do as obliged without resistance. Besides, they were also dear friends, so it was for the best. And so, joining Chisa and Chiaki, he started to do his job, hopeful for their future.
When time skipped again, it was nearly 1:00 pm. After eating lunch with his seniors, Makoto arrived at his destination, the door of the meeting room meant for the Student Council... who was now guarded by the Ultimate Bodyguard, Isshiki Madarai, who turned his head to acknowledge his presence. "Ah, it's you, Naegi. You're right on time. The meeting is about to start."
The Luckster viewed one of the many clocks of the academia. 12:58 am. Indeed, he was probably the last to arrive. As he advanced towards the door, Isshiki stood right in front of him. "Sorry kid, you know the procedure."
"R-right."
The Bodyguard then started to grab and touch every part of Makoto's body. After a little moment, the guardian went on the side.
"You're clean. Proceed."
"A-alright. Thanks." The Luckster entered the room-
BOMP!
Only for something heavy falling on his own body, which made him fall, the back of the head hitting the floor.
"Crap! Naegi-kun!"
And thus, for the third time of the day, our poor Luckster fell into unconsciousness.
The world of darkness became quite familiar with Makoto over the time. Accident by accident, this realm was quite calm… well before he woke up, that is. And as he did, this time-
"Ah. You're awake. Good."
Standing in front of the Luckster was the former Ultimate Student Council President of class 74, who is also known as the former Ultimate Diplomat, as he calmly stared at Makoto. "We were all waiting for you. Are you alright?"
Makoto waved his hand. "Y-yes, Munakata-san. Don't worry, it's nothing to be worried about."
"Good to hear. We wouldn't want to begin without you, Naegi." Said the Ultimate Journalist Kotomi, who was also the Ultimate Student Council Vice-President who smiled at him, before turning to Ryota Someya, the Ultimate Seamster and also the Ultimate Head of the Arts and Craft Department with a reprimanding face. "Someya! Be more careful to the people around you!"
"Yeah yeah, I know! I'm just too excited about it!" Ryota said as he turned his head towards Makoto and scratched his cheek. "Sorry for falling on you Naegi-kun."
So that was what happened, uh. "Oh, it's nothing Someya-kun! I think I would have done the same thing." Responded the Luckster.
Kyosuke then put his hands on the desk next to him. "Alright. Now that all of us are here, please take a seat." There was some shifting, and once all of them were in position, the former Diplomat continued. "Now then, I officially declare the settings of the preparations for the Week of Adaptation open. As I expect from you, you probably know what it is all about."
"Well, yeah sir! We've been told this already this morning!" Exclaimed the Ultimate Costume Designer Aiko Umezawa, the Ultimate Head of the Drama Department, who seemed… a little bored. "It's all about showing the school around for the Reserve Course, right? About their discovery of the Main Building or something like that."
"It's more than just this," answered Kyosuke. "It's about showing the students from the city what the school can offer to them and to encourage them pursuing their efforts. It is supposed to feed their determination and will of entering Hope's Peak Academy."
"I do have some worries about this, sir." The quiet yet intimidating voice of Tomohiko Goryoku, the Ultimate Bouncer, who was chosen to be the Ultimate Head of the Disciplinary Department, could be heard. "With so many people during this long-period event, the security will have to be enforced in order to avoid any kind of incident."
"A-and that means we'll have to prepare ourselves to have people getting hurt…" Kiriko Nishizawa, the Ultimate Nutritionist and the Ultimate Head of the Health Department, spoke next. "W-we'll have to prepare more medicine too, right?"
Kyosuke answered calmly to this. "I have a friend of mine that lead the security branch of this school, so do not worry about it. And as for the medicine, this is a matter that will be taken care of as well." He then turned to see two members of the Student Council, Taro Kurosaki, the Ultimate Graphic Designer, and Tsubasa Kamii, the Ultimate Movie Maker. They are respectively the Ultimate Head of the Technology Department and the Ultimate Head of the Cultural Cultural Department. "Have you planned any ideas already, by chance?" The former Diplomat asked the two.
"Well sir," began Taro, "we thought about establishing some rules during it. Why not making the students participate in the different classes we have? That way, we could show them how the school prepares their students for the final exams."
"Of course, this is not all about work, sir," added Tsubasa. "We also thought about making them participate in the different events that will take place in the classes as well, in order to create bonds between the students."
"Hey, so that means there's gonna be events which involve music too?" Questioned Sosuke Ichino, the Ultimate Rock Star and the Ultimate Head of the Music Department, on whose face appeared a smirk. "That's great! I'm finally gonna see if there are potential members of my band!"
"Don't lose focus on our mission, Ichino-kun." Karen Kisaragi, the Ultimate Paralegal who was chosen as the Ultimate Student Council Secretary reminded him. "We have a lot of work to do in order to get the academy prepared for this. As Goryoku-kun said before, there's gonna be a lot of people participating in this event, and more people mean more supply."
Makoto decided to step in. "While I think you're right Kisaragi-san, I don't think you should worry too much about it." He then smiled at his friends. "I mean, this is an event that is supposed to make people happy, so why would anything go wrong?"
At this instant, the Ultimate Male Model Shouji Yoko, who worked as the Ultimate Head of the Fashion Department, smirked and made a comment. "Say the guy who happens to have the worst kind of luck in the entire academy."
At this, some people chuckled. Makoto was beginning to be embarrassed again. "W-well, I can't really help it. It's not like I can control my luck anyway."
"Admit that it's quite odd that you're called the Ultimate Lucky Student, considering what happens to you every day." Followed Daiki Kubo, the Ultimate Food Critic, who was chosen to be the Ultimate Head of the Culinary Department who sweatdropped while giving Makoto an awkward smile. "No offense, but I don't think they gave you the right title."
"Hey, you don't need to say that! And I think he knows that already!" Suzuko Kashiki, the Ultimate Sprinter, and also the Ultimate Head of the Sports Department, told Daiki with a defending tone.
Makoto stood up and place a hand on her shoulder, causing her to turn to him. "It's alright Kashiki-san. You don't need to do this."
"B-but still-"
"Enough." The authoritarian voice of Kyosuke immediately cut off any kind of protest. "We're losing focus here." Everybody calmed down and went quiet instantly. Kyosuke then turned his head toward the Ultimate Banker Asukasei Hino, who occupied the post of the Ultimate Student Council Treasurer. "How much do you esteem this event will cost for us?"
"Well, I don't have the details of the events, but with so many people… a lot. I think you already figured." He then turned his head to the Luckster. "You better know where this is going, Naegi. You're the one who came up with this idea, after all."
"Don't worry, Hino-kun." Answered the Luckster. "I got this one."
"But remember, everyone: this is not an individual thing to do. You need to work all together in order to get the job done correctly." Pointed out Kyosuke. "After all, you will only be able to fully be available this Friday, as I've seen in your schedule."
Makoto was a little surprised by this, and a sad face appeared. "I'm sorry guys. It's because of the exams. I was assigned to help the others. But I promise, I will make it up to you guys."
"Do not worry about this, Naegi! I can't speak for everyone, but I understand perfectly the situation you're in!" Exclaimed the Ultimate Politician Soshun Murasame who as such had been chosen to be the current Ultimate Student Council President. "So do not worry about this! As the Student Council, we will manage to keep it alright!" He answered with a proud smile.
Makoto looked at him to see some people agree with their comrade. It really reassured him to know that most of them were understanding the circumstances the Luckster were put into. He felt the burden on his shoulders lightened up a little.
Kyosuke did not waste any time to remind Makoto of something. "But do not forget, when the day will come, you will be considered in charge of the organization."
"Right." He nodded seriously in response. Of course, Kyosuke was only reminding him of the importance of the event, since he's the one who asked for this to happen. So he kept listening to him with the others. "So, let's finally begin, shall we?"
Time skipped once again at the clock showed 3:00 pm, after Makoto was given the different instructions of the events he will have to follow when the day will arrive. For now, he was ordered to deliver the 79th class, his juniors, the instructions of their next exams. He arrived at the front of the class they were in, but as he opened the door-
KABLANK!
Something just landed on his head. Judging by the impact, it was probably a bucket.
"O-oh no! Naegi-senpai!"
And thus… well, you probably know what happened next.
…
You know, Shouji's statement was right after all. Being knocked out by different things all day was something which became quite common in Makoto's life since he arrived here… even though it wasn't something normal. Then again, Makoto couldn't control his luck, so he had to deal with it… very often, that is to say. And as he once again woke up from his slumber, he saw-
"Ah, kid. Good to see you're not dead yet."
The voice who was just ahead his head belonged to no other than Koichi Kizakura, the teacher of the 79th class, who was also the man who recruited the Ultimates. Said man was chuckling at the view. "Wow, how many times are you gonna risk your life like this? I think you're going to break a whole new record. Hats off to you." Of course, it was a joke, but Makoto couldn't help but feel embarrassed at this comment.
"Hey, don't make him feel like that! It's not like he could have known!" Raised a feminine voice which was next to him. Makoto next saw a hand which was lifted for him. He then headed up to see-
"Ah, Akamatsu-san!"
"Are you alright, Naegi-senpai?" Asked Kaede Akamatsu, the Ultimate Pianist and also the class representative of her class, said in a worried tone, though with a reassured smile. She asked with an awkward laugh, "You really took a good hit this time."
"Y-yeah, I'm fine Akamatsu-san. Don't worry about me." Makoto answered, trying to reassure her.
"Well, it's not like you did not experiment this kind of incident before, Naegi-senpai." Added the Ultimate Adventurer, Rantarou Amami, with a chuckle. "Please forgive to say this, but I'm really beginning to think that the Headmaster gave you the wrong talent."
At this, the Luckster of the 78th class chuckled as well. "I've heard a similar comment today. And I can understand why you would think like this."
"Hyashyashyashyashya!" The heartful laugh of Miu Iruma, the Ultimate Inventor, could be heard while said girl spat violently. "Shinabigi being pranked by Liar boy is just a fucking great sight! For once, that cock gremlin did something funny!"
At this, Makoto lifted his head up. "Liar boy? You mean-"
"Nishishi… that's right, Naegi-chan!" Said boy, Kokichi Ouma, also known as the Ultimate Supreme Leader, and who also had the title of Ultimate President, answered with a smirk. "I was the one who set up this little prank! And you know the best part? It wasn't even supposed to end up like this!"
"Uh? What do you mean?"
"If I may explain to you, Naegi-senpai," began to explain Ki-Bo Idabashi, the Ultimate Robot, "Ouma-kun wanted to prank you with the bucket prank, and if I'm correct, you were supposed to be soaked by it… but..." he then had an awkward face. "The bucket hit you at the head instead."
The Luckster suddenly felt a hand on his shoulder and heard sob. He turned his head to see Gonta Gokuhara, the Ultimate Entomologist, crying. "Gonta so sorry, Naegi-senpai! Ouma-kun told Gonta that Naegi-senpai gonna be happy and would laugh…" The tears continued to flow. "This is all Gonta's fault! How can Gonta be true gentleman if Gonta hurt friends?!"
"N-no, don't worry, Gokuhara-kun! I'm not mad or anything!" Makoto tried to reassure the Entomologist, under an amused Kokichi.
"Nishishi…"
"Ouma-kun, will you please stop doing this? Our senior got hurt because of you!" Complained Shuichi Saihara, the Ultimate Lucky Student of this class, who turned his head towards Makoto with a reassuring face. "Sorry about this, Naegi-senpai. You know how Ouma-kun love to do that kind of thing."
"Like I said, it's okay, Saihara-kun!" The Luckster answered with his trademark smile. "I mean, no real harm was done this time!"
"You really are a forgiving person, Naegi-senpai." The Ultimate Cosplayer Tsumugi Shirogane said with a little smile on her face. "You look like a protagonist that try to make everyone get along." She then entered her fangirl mode, with sparkles appearing around her. "Oh! That reminds me so much of this anime when-"
"Moving on." Koichi cut her off, leaving a depressed Tsumugi who looked down at her desk. The teacher then turned his head towards the Luckster. "Hey kid, now that you're awake, I'll let you take care of things, okay?"
Makoto didn't even have time to protest that Koichi was already heading to the door. Then, the Ultimate Anthropologist, Korekiyo Shinguji, decided to step in. "One moment, please. While it is true that you already told us what the papers on your desk were about, don't you think that it is a little reckless, and even cruel, to leave such an important task to a man alone? And a student of the academy, on top of that?"
Which Koichi answered quickly by, "Oh, I don't really worry about this. I'm talking about the kid, after all. I know he'll do well."
He then winked to said boy and then left the classroom, leaving most of the student dumbfounded by this action… and one of them was really not happy about this, although it was for personal reasons. "What an awful men!" Tenko Chabashira, the Ultimate Aikido Master, exclaimed in a frustrated tone. "Putting all the work on another student just to be free to do what he wants… even if the chosen one is a boy, it's simply outrageous!"
Makoto sweatdropped at this statement. "C-Chabashira-san, I'm telling you it's fine! You know how Kizakura-sensei works!" The girl stared at the Luckster, but her expression softened, if only a little.
Makoto was then approached by Kirumi Toujo, the Ultimate Maid, who handed him the papers. "If you need anything, feel free to ask me, Naegi-senpai. I'll do my best to support you." She said with a small smile, which was answered by Makoto's.
"Thank you Toujou-san. I appreciate it. Just don't overdo yourself, okay?"
"You will need every help you can have in this event." Commented Maki Harukawa, the Ultimate Caregiver, and this, with a neutral voice. "But as Kizakura said, you still remain in charge of it. No pressure, but try not to mess up, okay?" At this, the class looked oddly at her. "What? I'm only stating facts."
"I know, Harukawa-san. I'm gonna do my best on this one." Answered Makoto in a determined tone.
"Hey, before we start anything," Ryouma Hoshi, the Ultimate Tennis Player, popped in the conversation, "are all of us allowed to contribute to it? Even a murderer like me?"
"Of course you are, Hoshi-kun." The Luckster answered with a little smile. "And I've already told you before, stop qualifying yourself as such. It's in the past, and you're not that kind of person anymore. Everything is going to be fine."
"Hell yeah! Stop whining about that! We're gonna have fun, so cheer up, man!" The exclaiming voice of Kaito Momota, the Ultimate Astronaut raised itself. He then eyed the Luckster, grinning widely, before saying, "Oi, Makoto! You think there's gonna be space theme in this event? 'cause if so, I'm totally gonna need you for this! C'mon, the workouts ain't gonna do themselves, y'know?"
Knowing the intense program of his astronaut friend, the Luckster couldn't help but gulp at this statement. "W-well I-"
"I'm afraid thou hast mistaken." Himiko Yumeno, the Ultimate Magician, or as she called herself, the Ultimate Mage, stepped in. "I have already planned that Naegi-senpai was gonna help me create the Mana for the ritual of my future magic show."
This statement did not please Tenko very much. "Y-Yumeno-chan? W-why did you-"
"Whatwhatwhat?" the voice of Angie Yonaga, the Ultimate Artist, raised itself in the subject. "But Atua told Angie to work with Makoto to show the school His power!" She then gave said boy with a cute face. "You're gonna help Angie, right Makoto? You wouldn't want Atua to be mad at you, right?"
Soon, all of the students stepped into the debate, some excited like Miu or Kokichi who tried to force their way on the poor Luckster, some more calm like Kaede or Shuichi who tried to dissuade the others while also trying to proclaim his time, some well polite like Kirumi or Korekiyo who were the most calm about it, but who still wanted their time with him. Even the unsociable ones, Maki and Ryouma, asked him to help them, but it was more because they were annoyed because of the noise most of their classmates were making… that, or they were pitying him because of his current predicament.
Either way, Makoto couldn't help but smile at the scene he was watching. For him, it was a sign of affection which was directed towards him… yes, even those who were hard, if not impossible to approach, and tolerated him at best. And it was more than enough for him to make him happy. And it's with those joyful thoughts, that the Luckster continued his day, giving ideas to his juniors for what should they do regarding what is going to happen next week.
Time skipped for the last time of the day, and it was 5:00 pm. It was the end of the classes and the sunset emitted a bright, orange light towards the academy. It was in this calm and beautiful setting that Makoto was outside, heading towards the exit of the school. And as he arrived, he quickly heard some voice… an argument, more precisely.
"Are you gonna stop complaining one day?"
"Oi, fuck off, bitch! What makes you think you can tell me what to do, uh?!"
"You've been like this the whole day since the announcement, Kuzuryu-san. I understand that you're stressed about it, but that doesn't give you the right to act like this."
"Why the hell not?! If something is bothering me, I've got the goddamn right to express it! And I'm NOT stressed! Got it, Hinata?!"
"Then why are you behaving like a kid again?"
"The fuck you just said, Satou?!"
"You heard me!"
The Luckster spotted the origin of the voices, and by the sound of it, another argument with his friends from the Reserve Course was occurring, something that was usual coming from them. So he decided to come to them in order to stop the quarrel. He waved and smiled at them. "Hey, guys!"
As soon as the trio heard their friend's voice, the trio turned their gazes towards Makoto, and the two girls stopped arguing and immediately calmed down in order not to upset their friend and tried to opt for a friendlier approach instead. The boy, Hajime Hinata, probably the most normal of the bunch and the closest to Makoto due to his realist personality, turned his head towards him and waved back. "Oh! Hey Naegi-kun! What's up? You look like you're in a good mood today."
"Oh, you have no idea, Hinata-kun!" Makoto answered with an enthusiastic tone.
Satou, the girl with viridian hair, raised her questioning voice, for she already had a clue about what her friend was thinking. "Um, by any chance Naegi-kun, does it has something to do with the event that's coming next week?"
"Yes, it is." The Luckster answered with a smile on his face. Hajime and Satou could not help but smile as well at this.
It was Natsumi Kuzuryu, the little sister of the Ultimate Yakuza, whose reaction peaked Makoto's curiosity. And it was not a good one, judging from her narrowed eyes. "Uh? Is something wrong, Kuzuryu-san?"
Satou quickly intervened. "Don't pay any attention to her. She's been like this all day."
Something which the blonde girl did not hesitate to respond with annoyance. "Yeah, right! If you kept listening to ungrateful losers non-stop about something that could possibly help them feel better, I bet you would be in the same fucking mood!"
That was an unexpected answer for everyone. Hajime was the first one to react. "Wait... you mean THIS is why you're-"
"Exactly, smartass! Instead of being thankful for what YOU," she then pointed her finger at Makoto, "did for them, those fucking idiots kept saying that it would be a waste of their useless time!" she fumed while her annoyance only went higher as the memories went back to her head.
And it wasn't Makoto's attitude which was making it better, quite the opposite. "I-I'm sure they have their reason to-"
"You've been working your ASS on this project, and you're telling me it's no big deal?! I call it BULLSHIT!"
While she understood better her classmate's reaction, Satou's anger quickly raised as well. "Hey! You don't need to be so rude to him! He was just trying to calm you down!"
"How the hell is this calming me down, uh?!"
"I agree that what they said was really outrageous, but you don't have to make Naegi-kun your personal punching-ball for that!"
"The fuck you said, bitch?!"
And thus, another quarrel began between the two girls. The two others boys sighed at this now common scene for us. When they were together, the chance of them specifically having an argument were high basically. Makoto then asked his male friend, "Hinata-kun… is this true?"
The taller boy looked away awkwardly. "Well, yeah, it is, Naegi-kun. Some people in our class took this as…" he then gulped. "A sort of pity from the Main Course and the Steering Committee."
Makoto's eyes widened a little, then his expression saddens a little and he lowered his head. "I see…"
It was to be expected. Not all of the Reserve Course students were not going to be all happy, he knew this perfectly. But… it still affected him a little nevertheless. True, like Natsumi said, he worked hard in order to have this to happen, but… those comments still hurt him. And Hajime noticed it. "H-hey Naegi-kun, that's not so-"
"OI! What did you tell him, asshole?!"
That surprised the two ahoge boys who saw the two other girls stopped their argument when they saw their friend's face, and it didn't please them. Natsumi first, and Satou quickly following behind. "Don't you see that this is hurting him even more?!"
"I haven't done anything!"
The Luckster couldn't help but chuckle a little by seeing his poor friend being accused by the two girls out of surprise. It reminded him of the Main Course students, with the same aura, more precisely. He felt relaxed when he knew he had normal friends who cared about him. Okay, maybe not so normal, but it was something that became a part of his life.
Just as familiar as the now great pressure on his neck.
"Surprise, Nii-san! What's up?"
The two little arms that were around Makoto's neck pulled him tightly behind him, causing the two individuals to fall on their right sides, which made the trio stop their debate and give a worried look at the Luckster… and four other voices appeared as well.
"Aaah! Onii-san fell because of our Masaru-nii!"
"Not fair! I want to hug Makoto-onii too!"
"*sigh* Honestly, don't you know how to say hello to Aniki in another way than strangling him?"
"Teehee, that's how they are. You can't expect them to change like that."
As Makoto slowly regained his sense, although this time, he didn't felt unconscious, he turned his head to the right side to see-
"Ah, Masaru!"
"Yup, the one and only, Daimon Masaru!" Whined the Lil' Ultimate P.E. Masaru Daimon, whose grin was as evident as the bruises on his face. "How did you liked my surprise attack, Nii-san?"
Makoto sweatdropped at this. "Well, I-"
"M-maybe you should stop tackling our big bro, Masaru-kun… You're being too rough with him." The hesitant voice of Jataro Kerumi, the Lil' Ultimate Art, appeared next, while he approached his brother, ignoring Masaru's complaints. "H-hey, you're okay Onii-san?"
"Y-yeah, I'm fine Jataro. Don't worry about me." Makoto said with a reassuring smile and got up… before he felt someone else hugging him, almost making him lose his balance twice.
"Makoto-onee! We've heard about what happened! This is so amazing!" Kotoko Utsugi, the Lil' Ultimate Drama, cheered on while her brother tried not to fall again.
"K-Kotoko, I'm-"
"Kotoko-san, stop. We don't need to make him dizzy." The authoritarian voice of the Lil' Ultimate Social Studies Nagisa Shingetsu raised itself before her sister reluctantly released her the Luckster. Said boy lowered his head to see Nagisa smiling at him. "Good job, Aniki. I knew you could do it."
It made appear a tiny shade of red on Makoto's face. "It was nothing, Nagisa! I just did my job!"
"But the fact that you still managed to get something from them is a really good thing, Naegi-onii." The happy voice of the Lil' Ultimate Homeroom Monaca Towa was heard next, advancing her wheelchair towards Makoto, smiling at him. "It was expected, coming from you, the one who saved us."
Makoto looked around in surprise to see the four other kids nodding, confirming her sayings. Sure enough, they weren't brothers or sisters by blood. They were all from different families, and the least we can say is… there was no good coming from them. The five of them suffered terrible traumatisms, which greatly affected them by the past. If it wasn't for Makoto's bad luck which made him encounter and adopt those kids at the end of his first-year school, they would have suffered more… and maybe it would have ended really tragically for them.
Hajime who was watching the scene smile at this, and decided to step in. "Yeah, Naegi. I personally think that what you're doing for us is cool. Besides, it's not like what the others said was THAT bad. You know, it was just some kind of complaint."
The kids were shocked at this statement. Jataro spoked it out loud. "W-what? Some people are not happy with what Onii-san have done?"
"Uuuum…"
"Foot in the mouth, Hinata." Commented Natsumi with a smirk.
"Oi! Give me a break! Naegi-kun would have told them anyway!"
"Y-yeah, that's not really a big deal…" Makoto sweatdropped at this.
Masaru advanced towards him and exclaimed, "Well, guess what? Screw them! If they don't like it, then they just don't have to come! Too bad for them though, 'cause they're gonna miss the super-extreme performance of the leader of the Warriors of Hope, Daimon Masaru!"
The grin on his face made his brother chuckle. Satou was curious about this. "Uh? The children are gonna participate as well?"
"As helpers for performances, yes." Answered Nagisa, who sighed again. "They even wanted to show that even mere children could do better than them." He then grunted. "Seriously, what is going to be next? It's like we are compared to other lower persons as if we were low ourselves!"
"I know you can do great things, Nagisa." Makoto told him with a smile, making the Lil' Ultimate Social Studies look away with a blush, which turned into a surprised face when his brother said, "But don't talk bad about them. We are not going to do that because it would hurt their feelings, okay?"
To which Nagisa simply answered a little ashamed, "Y-yes, Aniki. I'll remember that."
"That's good."
The Luckster felt a thug on his left hand and saw Kotoko smiling happily at him. "Hey hey, Makoto-onii! You're gonna see me perform right? Right?" She then makes her puppy face to her brother.
And it was affecting him. "K-Kotoko, I-"
"Hey hey, it's okay Kotoko-chan!" Monaca decided to step in as well. "Monaca is sure that Naegi-onii will have time for all of us, right Naegi-onii?" She smiled at him, soon followed by the three boys who also wanted to have their part of the cake, and this, under the amused faces of the Reserve Course trio. Something that Natsumi did not hesitate to comment with a smirk.
"Seems like kids who fight for the same freaking teddy bear."
"They ARE children, Kuzuryu-san." Commented Satou. But just before another argument could begin-
"Onii-chan!"
All of the heads turned over to see-
"Ah, Komaru!"
"Sorry for being late, Onii-chan!" Komaru Naegi, the native sister of Makoto Naegi, panted of tiredness after running. "Today's classes were longer than usual!" "I-it's fine Komaru!" Answered quickly her brother. "I know your school is far enough from here… but you know you don't have to do this for us."
"Of course I do! What kind of sister would I be if I was to leave my irresponsible brother take care of our siblings alone?!" She pouted.
Makoto sweatdropped again at this and scratched embarrassedly the back of his head, and the others could not help but laugh a little at this snarky comment. It was nothing mean, they knew that… it was simply a little brother-sister prank game. Even if it was the sister who played more, that's true. And even if it was just in front of the brother's friends, it was nothing to feel hurt about…
It just made born a desire for revenge in the brother's heart, but that's all.
Komaru did not even let her brother try to hide his discomfort than she took him by his free left arm and said "Now then, Onii-chan! Kaa-san prepared the special dinner for us!" At the mention of it, the children went wild.
"The-the special dinner?!" Jataro exclaimed with his eyes sparkling.
"Yeah! That's so cool!" Kotoko exclaimed with joy, before turning to Makoto with once again, a puppy face. "Makoto-onii, can we please go home? I wanna eat the special dinner too!"
This time, the Luckster tried to resist. "W-well, Kotoko, I was talking with my-"
"Hey, it's okay Naegi-kun." Satou interrupted with a reassuring smile. "You can tell us more another day. It's going to begin in one week, so you have time to tell us."
Natsumi felt like she had to comment. "Tch! We can inform ourselves, you know. It's not like we're kids or anything." She then remarked that Nagisa was staring at her. "What do you want, brat?"
"I will ask to not say this kind of thing in front of us, please."
He tried to be as polite as possible, but the tone he used betrayed the fact that he was not happy with what he heard. And just when the yakuza girl was about to retorque, Sato stepped in. "Right. We won't." He then turned to Makoto with a smile. "We'll see each other another day. Go with your family."
Makoto hesitated a little, but then smiled back and nodded. "Thank you. I'll see you guys on Sunday. Bye."
"Right. See you." Hajime answered with a smile. Makoto then took Masaru up to his shoulders, with the kid grabbing his head for support.
"Ready, kids?"
"YEAH!"
"Ready, ready, ready!" He then heard his brother shouting. He then took Jataro and Kotoko by the hands while Komaru and Nagisa took Monaca's wheelchair. Said girl took Komaru and Nagisa's hands.
"Thank you, both of you." Nagisa blushed at this while Komaru giggled at the scene.
While they turn back towards their home and while Komaru asked her brother what happened to him today, the trio watched them with happy faces. Hajime looked at his friend with admiration for how someone so similar to him was capable of accomplishing amazing things, and this for him and so many others. Satou shared the same fate as him, but seeing Makoto with kids made her blush a little at the thoughts in her head. And Natsumi… well, was being Natsumi. She turned her head to the side but her gaze was also fixed on the Luckster, while she tried to hide the warm feelings on her cheeks as well… and it was becoming harder for both girls to do so when they think back to what this young man has done for them.
Befriending the different classes, both of Main and Reserve Course, assisting the teachers with their tasks, making the kids laugh, helping the seniors with their exams… even the Headmaster owed him a favor for what he did for him.
Yes, the existence of Makoto Naegi, while an average one, was one of happiness and friendship...
And it would take one slow yet eventful journey to make this everyday routine crumbles… into a tale of hope and despair.
There. My real chapter is over.
It was pretty cool to come back at it and rectify some things, you know? I mean, there was some unfortunate moments when the website wouldn't work correctly, but all in all... it wasn't that bad.
Anyway, next chapter will mainly focus on the DR1 cast, Makoto's own classmates. This is the beginning, so might as well begin with the game that began everything, right?
Also, next chapter will be the one that will have the biggest changes compared to the old version. Just to let you know.
Hope you enjoyed, and see you next time!
Pupla out.
