Hello, I'm Putain de Plagieur! I remember it, so you don't have to!

...

Nope. Not even ashamed.

Ahem! As you all know, it will focus on the SDR2 cast. Ryouta will simply replace Hajime for the reasons said last time.

And yes, I decided to rewrite this chapters as well. But you might start from the beginning if you are new here.

I hope that you will like this chapter as much as the previous one. Enjoy!

CONQUERING HOPE CHAPTER 2:

HELLO, SENPAIS!

"Oi, hurry up, you bunch of slowpokes! You know that I hate when you're playing slow like that!?"

"T-then why aren't you helping me, Masaru-kun? I-I'm not finished yet!"

"Yeah, you've heard him! Go help Jataro-kun instead of peeking at us, pervert!"

"*sigh* Honestly, can't you just restrain yourself a little, Masaru?"

"That's how he is, Nagisa-kun. You can't really do anything about that."

"All right kids, don't fight. And Masaru, listen to Kotoko. Go help the others when you're finished."

And thus, the day started with a little quarrel between the Warriors of Hope again, with their adoptive big brother watching the scene, sighing in an amused tone. Now that they were a part of Makoto's family, it became a recurrent thing to do for the Luckster to calm them down. And today was a particular day, for he had to take care of his seniors' case, and as such, he was asked to come to the school earlier, which is why he was now preparing himself… and maybe he would have already be gone if not for this little argument. But he could not put the blame on them. They were just but mere children. And after everything that happened to them, seeing them acting like a family was a heartwarming sight for him…

Even though it was with a little arguing. Then again, it happened with Komaru too.

After helping his siblings preparing themselves for school, he called out, "Komaru! Otoo-san! Okaa-san! We're going now! Take care and have a nice day!"

"Bye son! Have a nice day as well!"

"Don't forget to eat well! And take care of the children!"

"Yeah! Good luck with your project, Onii-chan!"

Makoto sweatdropped at this as he left the house with the kids. He wasn't the kind of guy who goofed off on this kind of situation… well, even if the situation was new for him, he got used to having the five kids adapting themselves in his house with his family, and they seemed to fit in alright, even though the contact was awkward at first.

"MAKOTO-CHAAAAAN!"

BUMP!

The sudden tackle which made him lose his balance interrupted the flow of memories, and made the children gasped in shock and some bypassers to look at the scene in a curious, and even funny demeanor. As for the Luckster, once he quickly recovered from the surprise, he immediately recognized the owner of the cheery and booming voice.

"M-Mioda-senpai?!"

"Gotcha gotcha right!" the Musician shouted with her usual personality. "Ibuki has heard that Makoto-chan was going to be earlier for our class today, so she thought that she would like to go to school together! Isn't that so cool?!"

The poor ahoge boy could not even mutter an answer that he heard three young voices, screaming for their lives… and what was more surprising was that two of them belonged to boys.

"I-IT'S THE GUITAR DEMON AGAIN!"

"S-SHE'S GONNA KIDNAP MAKOTO-ONII!"

"A-AND SHE'LL FORCE US TO LISTEN TO HER DEVILISH TRACKS!"

Ibuki tilted her head in confusion. "Uh? A demon? Where? Ibuki wants to play with it too! Demons are sooooo cool!"

Nagisa sighed in frustration. "Honestly, Mioda-san, do you not know any better greeting methods than tackling people?"

That got Makoto's attention, and not in a good way. "N-Nagisa!"

"Ooooow, but it's Ibuki's favorite entrance! People just love it when Ibuki makes a surprise introduction just for them! Right, Makoto-chan?!"

The Luckster chuckled awkwardly, knowing too well the Musician's antics. "I-it sure does has it effect…"

"See? He likes it!" Her proud pose with her pointing and growing nose was enough for him to cool down a bit…

Before his tension came back right when he saw Monaca sweating as Ibuki took her wheelchair.

"Now then, Monaca-chan! Wanna go crazy-karting with Ibuki today?"

Monaca tried to protest. "Uuum, I don't think my wheelchair can-"

"It's totally fine! Ibuki can avoid anything in her tracks!" She interrupted her, oblivious to the fact that the poor Homeroom was now scared to death. She then turned her head towards Makoto and said, "Makoto-chan! Ibuki and Monaca-chan are going ahead! Try not to make us wait to make us wait too long okay?"

And without even letting Makoto finish, the Musician took a running sprint and guided the wheelchair towards her, taking alongside her a screaming Monaca who called her brother for help. As the poor Luckster watched in pity, he immediately felt a hand on his own and turned to see Nagisa… with fire in his eyes.

"Aniki, she just kidnapped Monca-san! We can't let her get away like this! Let's hurry up!"

And with this, the young boy left, running in the direction of the Musician, leaving Makoto sweat dropping at the scene and sighing. He then turned to the three others. "Everyone, I hope you've got energy in you today, we're gonna have to run to school!"

They sighed in frustration at this. This was going to be a long day, for sure…

"And there was always that girly scream that would follow Ibuki and Monaca-chan all the way here! Can you believe it, Makoto-chan?"

"I… I sure can…" the Luckster replied while panting. Just after arriving at school, he made sure that Monaca was alright, and seeing that the fear and shock was still present on her, he handed the rest of the Warriors of Hope to Nagisa, who was one of the most responsible of the group.

He had to admit, he still couldn't get over the fact that his senior was a very fast person, and this combined with her… upbeat personality, could only mean trouble. Even one year knowing her would not be enough to keep up with her in this kind of situation.

"So, Makoto-chan!" Ibuki suddenly lifted her head behind her in a quick manner, making the Luckster stop dead in his tracks in surprise. "What kind of guy do you think there is in the Reserve Course? You think there are any fun guys like Hajime-chan or the girls out there?"

"W-Well, I can't say for sure," answered Makoto, opting for an optimistic face. "Knowing that they all have different personalities, I think that there must be some cool guys, yes! I mean I hope so!"

"Right?!" she exclaimed with spit coming out of her mouth. "And then Ibuki will find even more play partners! She won't have to play all alone as always!"

"R-right…" he sweatdropped again at the comment.

As if she thought she'd done a mistake, the Musician waved her hands in disapproval. "Oh! No no no no no! It's not like that at all! Ibuki still loves to hang out with Makoto-chan!" She then embarrassedly played with her fingers. "It's just… the more people Ibuki can play with the better, right?!"

The Luckster chuckled at this. He was not hurt by any means "W-well sure… As long as those people can make you laugh-"

A pair of arms hugging him made him stop. "M-Mioda-senpai?!"

"Ibuki just wanted to tell you," she started, "that Makoto-chan is her best friend to play with. Ibuki's classmates are fun to hang out with, but they've got some boring stuff to do on their own… leaving Ibuki all alone most of the time…"

Makoto could hear easily the sadness in her tone as those words. "M-Mioda-senpai…"

Which suddenly disappeared when she spoke up again. "But Makoto-chan is always here to play with Ibuki since he arrived at Hope's Peak… he's always willing to listen to her… and he's always ready to playing music with her when no one else can…" She then let go of him and grinned at him. "So, Ibuki just wanted to say, thank you for being Ibuki's best friend, Makoto-chan!"

Makoto felt warm at those words, and only smiled in return as the memories of them playing together over the first year made the two of them pretty close.

Well, Makoto was close to a lot of people in the academy to begin with, but at the beginning, when he first met them, he was wondering if he could survive class 77-B's whole wilderness.

This was one of the few instances he wanted to believe his luck would be good this time.

And of all people, Ibuki was probably the most… playful of the bunch.

And to her, Makoto was likable. He was average in appearance, but he was kind and caring. He wouldn't mind passing time with her when he was free, and even if he wasn't, he would stay attention to what she wanted to say. Truly, he was just… nice to be with.

Unlike the Lucky Student from her own class.

And he knew some things about music, too! He was always willing to play with her when they had the chance!

Well, okay, she did had to teach him the basics. But he was a good apprentice, to be honest! He was picking up really good. Not too fast, but not too slowly either. Perhaps she had found a new bandmate!

But what was really outstanding was the fact that not only he liked her music, but he could feel her passion, and also… the fact that she was her own individual.

How she longed for someone who understood her the way he did.

Because even in her own class, sometimes, she would just feel… like the odd one. Not that she wasn't nice or anything, but… they were a tough crowd. That's what she explained when he asked her why she chooses her tastes.

And she also mentioned the creative differences her and her past band had.

So when she began to really play with him, when he had all of the basics out of the way… she could feel it.

The sense of unity between the two.

It wasn't a feeling she had in a long time, not between friends, and especially not between bandmates.

And she didn't think that this kind of feeling would be this strong.

But now, she didn't want it to go away. Ever.

Just like the beat of her heart, as loud as the beat of her music, when she was around him… and the sound of war when she had to face off her rivals.

And how many they were, you had no idea…

"Ara ara… such a beautiful between two fresh oranges… that's quite a sight."

The two students widened their eyes in shock, before Ibuki literally screamed at the top of her lungs. "KYAAAAA! SENSE-"

"Mioda-san, you know you shouldn't scream like that in the hallways right?" the finger of Chisa made the Musician stop dead in her shouting, while Zenku was watching the scene, almost amused. "I see that you were planning to prank someone with him again, were you Mioda? As expected from you."

"I-it couldn't be helped," Makoto answered for his friend. "We were simply coming back from my brothers and sister's class, you see."

"Well, this is very nice of you two," Chisa answered keeping her smile, "but don't forget that we need our entire class AND you today, okay?"

"O-of course…" The Luckster looked at the side embarrassed. And as Ibuki tried to help him, Zenku was simply faster than her. "Don't worry about it. We've already said what activities the others were gonna do today. And you're with me, Ryouta and Tsumiki."

"R-Really?" Makoto said a little surprised, then smiled. "Okay then. Any plans are fine by me."

"As expected from you." the Impostor chuckled, then turned his back on him. "Now let's go. Ryouta must be overdoing himself again, and Tsumiki will surely need us with his health."

"Right!" With that, he turned to Ibuki and said, "Well, thank you for your help Mioda-senpai! See you later!" He then dashed to follow Zenku's path.

"W-Wait!" Ibuki tried to protest, but as she tried to run after him, she felt a grip on her arm.

"Mioda-san, where are you going? Koizumi-san, Saionji-san and Kuzuryu-kun are all waiting for you. Those decorations won't put themselves up you know."

She then dragged her to her destination, while the poor Musician could only watch in sorrow as her favorite guy in the entire academy was being taken away from her. "Makoto-chan…"

"How are you feeling, Ryouta?"

"I-I'm fine, Zenku. Just a little tired, that's all!"

The two students were now in the A/V room, where Zenku has placed his adoptive brother on the floor, with a little towel on his front head. Apparently, the Animator had some fever again, which made him faint in the middle of his work. Of course, Mikan seemed to have already treated him with medicine, but the sickness was still here apparently, and what was odder was that said Nurse was not with them… much to the Impostor's annoyance.

"I keep telling you, stop overworking yourself! Your health is what matters most!" Zenku scolded him for his bashful behavior.

"B-but I have to finish that project!" the brother protested. "It's really important for the event!"

"You won't be able to finish anything if you keep dozing off like that!"

"But that's not fair! Why must everyone work hard but me?!"

The Impostor was going to respond when he felt a hand on his right shoulder. He turned his head to see Makoto in a confident manner. "Zenku-senpai, I got this." Said Luckster then shifted his attention towards the other senior. "Ryouta-senpai, he's right. If you have a fever like that, you have to rest. You can't overdo yourself the way you do or else your condition is only going to get worse."

"B-But I've got to do it! I-I wasn't here for Zenku-kun or the others for the first year when I should have, so I need to-"

"Hold it."

The commanding voice of Makoto made him stop, as he saw that his junior was looking at him… in a determined way. "Are you saying that because you're feeling guilty?"

The Impostor looked at the Animator who was just as surprised as his brother. "W-well, I skipped classes because I felt like my anime was the only thing that mattered to me…" he then began to tear up. "B-but then you came… you made me see that those people, my classmates wanted nothing more but to meet me… w-while all I was doing was nothing more but thinking about only myse-"

"Stop this right now."

Yet again, the Animator flinched. Makoto was not fond of giving orders or looking strict, but if it was for a friend's sake... then he would do it.

"Ryouta-senpai, we both agree that what you did was not the right thing to do, even though I understand why you choose to do it. But that's now in the past. You've got your friends with you now. You don't have to be alone anymore." The Luckster then offered him his trademark smile. "So don't repeat those mistakes okay. We're all here for you."

The Animator's eyes sparkled a little at this quote, in astonishment. "N-Naegi-kun…"

"I keep telling you that, but that just won't enter into that thick head of yours, will it?" The Impostor could not help but chuckle at this. "I swear sometimes, you're hopeless."

Ryouta was shocked at this. "I-I'm so-"

"Don't say it. It's just like Naegi said. You don't have to do that useless thing. This is a part of you, and we won't change it for anything."

The two boys were really happy together, like brothers. Makoto could feel it.

Well, to say they were brothers was not entirely wrong. The two really seemed to care about each other very much in their own ways.

Taking the Animator's identity in order for him to work on his animation, while the other make sure you can live, is a way to show that, he supposed. At least, that's what he deduced when he discovered their secret.

Well, discover is a big word. Accidentally founding out would be more appropriate.

But even so… it didn't seem entirely right for the Luckster.

Both were wasting potential. Ryouta was wasting his opportunity to open up to other due to his past, and the Impostor for being his own person.

So it was a good thing Ryouta was close to finishing his animation. This way, it would be an opportunity for him to present himself properly.

And it would be an opportunity to give the Impostor a name as well.

The surprise was very effective, Makoto had to admit. From both boys, and their class who thought they were hallucinating when they saw them face to face. Then again, it was expected, he supposed.

What was less expected was how quick they were to accept them.

But then again, he guessed he shouldn't have underestimated his upper classmates' kindness.

They were so kind, in fact, that alongside Makoto, they decided the Impostor's name, which would be Zenku.

It meant leader, after all.

And that's what he's been trying to be since the beginning. For both Ryouta and his class, even though he was not their class representative.

So it was good to see them together at the academy now. And it was also good to see them hang out with others as well…

Especially the Luckster and a certain Nurse.

"Ah! I-I'm sorry for being late!"

Ah… speaking of who…

"Tsumiki-senpai!" Makoto shouted, noticing that the Nurse was going to cry. "Are you alright?"

"I-I'm so sorry!" she then tried to apologies, who was trying to restrain her tears. "I-I was getting the medicine to heal Mitarai-san, b-but I had to help Kuzuryu-san because he got injured too! I-I'm so-"

"Tsumiki-senpai, it's alright!" the Luckster tried to comfort her. "I'm here and Mitarai-kun is fine now! W-well, at least he should be!"

"T-That's right, Tsumiki-san!" Ryouta followed quickly, knowing the Nurse's fragile personality. "I'm alright now!" He then stood up. "See? I can stand up! Don't worry about me!"

That seemed to calm down Mikan a little, as she went towards Makoto. "I… I'm so glad! Thankfully you're with us, Naegi-sa-"

THUD!

"Aaah!"

"Tsumuki-senpa- Oouf?!"

And then she tripped on something, causing to fall on Makoto who tried to get her to no avail… and to land on the floor, with her cleavage right on his face, making both of them blush furiously, embarrassed because of the situation.

"N-Naegi-san I-I'm so sorry!" She got up instantly and bowed down repetitively. "Even with all this time here, I still can't help but trip at every spot!"

"I-It's not your fault…" the poor Luckster said in a quiet way, turning his head to the side, trying to hide his blush.

"Oi, are you two done yet?"

The strict voice of Zenku brought the attention of the two on him. "We've got to hurry up. The preparations are not gonna wait, and neither the Headmaster! Let's hurry up!"

"R-Right!" The three agreeing persons went back to their own affairs… and with one of them, still blushing, but with what looked like a happy face.

The time of the room showed 9:50 pm. The preparations for the event were making progress for sure, as the decorations were put up, and Ryouta was now making a quick appointment in n is going to be.

"And then, the movie should be about how the Academy treats its students like important people, and how it can develop their talent in order to prepare themselves for their futures." the Animator explained. "How do you think that sounds?"

"It could work," Zenku answered. "However, they will only be convinced if everyone works together in order to show them. And as hopeful I am, I believe that some of us… might mess up with this point."

"Don't say that, Zenku-senpai." Makoto said. "Why would anything go wrong? I mean, I don't expect perfection, but I don't think any catastrophe could happen."

"T-that's right…" Mikan continued, but who was a little troubled for some reason. "A-and even still, I-I'm here to heal the others if anyone got injured, s-so it's okay, r-right?"

Makoto sweatdropped again and looked at her. "I-I don't think that's-"

He then stopped in his tracks. Because Mikan's expression betrayed something. "Tsumiki-senpai? Is everything okay?"

"Uh?" The Nurse flinched. "W-What are you talking about?"

"Your face is pale and sweating..." Ryouta commenced.

"And you're shaking." Zenku continued. "Tsumiki-san, what are you trying to hide from us?"

Mikan could not answer properly. "I-I…"

The Luckster decided to place on her forehead, making the Nurse yelp in surprise. "Eeh?"

Her forehead was hot for sure. That was it. "Y-you're so hot! Tsumiki-senpai, you've got a fever!"

That made Ryouta gasp in shock, as Zenku asked in a serious tone, "Why didn't you say anything?"

"I…I…" Mikan began to shake again, and this time, she couldn't stop the tears from her eyes. "I'm so sorry! I didn't want to bother anyo-"

"Don't say that." Makoto cut her off. "Just like Ryouta-senpai, your health is what's more important for all of us right now."

Mikan blushed as Makoto turned his head towards Ryouta and said, "Ryouta-senpai! Please hand me the first-aid-kit!"

"R-right!" the Animator did as such, and as Makoto placed another cold towel on her forehead, he heard her say, "Y-you don't have to-"

"Of course I do." he then smiled at her. "Anything for a dear friend of mine."

That, of course, made the Nurse blush even more, but before she could do anything, she saw him hand her a spoon of syrup. "Come on. Open your mouth."

She was surprised at first, but then happily complied. Makoto could not help but chuckle as he saw Mikan happily humming as she tasted at the medicine and gulped it down… before she started to cry again. "T-Tsumiki-senpai?!"

"I-I'm fine…" she cried, but with tears of joy. "I-I… I'm just so happy! N-Naegi-san is always nice to me when he's with me… he never treats me badly… and he's taking care of me when I'm sick…" she then smiled while sobbing uncontrollably. "Thank you… thank you, Naegi-san!"

Makoto smiled again. He knew Mikan too well. That sweet girl that would do anything to make others happy… even though it meant that those other people could crush her like she was a pile of trash.

It wasn't hard to notice. Every time something happened? She kept apologizing. Even if it wasn't her fault. And of course, such behavior would only attract more people that would take advantage of that.

And of course, those incidents when she felt on… embarrassing positions were not helping her poor cause.

He wasn't proud of Hiyoko for that. And honestly, he couldn't believe that Mahiru, or anyone in her class, would let this happen.

It was a big disappointment to him.

But that's why he approached her: to heal her instead. She was always the one who took care of others, so why not taking care of her for a change?

To say that she was freaked out would be an understatement.

But after a while, she really loved his company. It was nice to be taken care of… and to feel accepted too.

That exam with another senior who was preparing one of her experiments was another proof of that. She could see that he was paying attention to what he was being told.

And she could see that he would help anyone in need.

That was confirmed when he took care of her after they celebrated with the senior.

He took care of her, as nobody else did.

He gave her… hope.

And she would gladly have it by her side forever… as long as it meant she could have him.

"You don't have to thank me." Makoto chuckled. "That's what friend are for."

"B-but still-"

"Don't say anything. You're still sick, Tsumiki-senpai." He then got up and went towards the door, much to her dismay. "I'm going to the infirmary to get some medicine. Everyone wait he-"

CRANZCH!

As he spoke, one of the windows of the room shattered suddenly, revealing a monkey wrench which went cut the wires of the room and-

DZAP!

"G-giaaaaaaaaaahh!"

The small sparks of electricity went directly towards Makoto's ahoge as if it served as a lightning rod, and who was screaming in pain at the moment was no wonder for the three other students who watched the scene in horror… especially a certain someone who forgot for a moment her fever.

"N-NAEGI-SAN!"

"My my, what a turn of bad luck, Naegi-kun. It seems like mine isn't so bad compared to yours."

The comment was coming from none other than Nagito, who was now checking Makoto's injuries after the 'lightning incident'. Mikan tried desperately to take care of him, but the two others restrained her because of her fever.

"You said it, Komaeda-senpai." Makoto only laughed a little, which resulted in some pain traveling his whole body. Even though the contact was short and the injuries weren't serious, the pain was still real. "But I've got to ask, what happened?"

"Oh, that?" The Lucky Student chuckled again. "Well, I and Souda-kun were still working on that machine we were preparing for the event."

"That rocket he wanted to build?"

"Precisely." Nagito then opted for a thinking face. "But then, the cover just went flying at full speed right onto my direction for some reason…"

That surprised Makoto. "W-what?! Are you hurt?!"

"Oh, there's no need to worry about me, I promise!" his senior waved his hands in reassurance. "It went just in front of my face without leaving a scratch!" His thinking face came back. "It came right into Souda-kun's right hand, though. I still don't get how he could have released that wrench…"

"Oi, instead of laughing at me, would you, like, try to help me?! It still hurts like hell, and I can't have this medicine!"

The pain was present in the shouting, and it came from a bed next to Makoto's. His right hand heavily bandaged, Kazuichi would simply not stop his complaints.

"Sorry, Souda-kun, but I think that you're partly at fault here." Nagito apologized.

"What?!" the Mechanist yelled in frustration even more. "How can this be my fault?!"

"Well, it was your engine which was nearly destroyed, right? Then it is your responsibility."

"How could I have predicted that that freaking cover would explode like that?! I'd put the best screws to maintain it in place, mind you!"

"Maybe the pressure inside the machine was too great to handle then?"

"Just when you decided to touch, obviously! This is your goddamn fault, not mine!"

Makoto watched, as another argument came between the two. He knew that Nagito's… special demeanor caused him to be alone most of the time, not to mention his luck, which was by the way far more impressive and positive than his own, caused trouble to his classmates.

And the one who suffered the most was Kazuichi, who didn't even tried to hide his hatred towards the Lucky Student.

As for the Luckster, the flow passed well between the two, as the Mechanist considered Makoto as 'an improved and nicer version of that weirdo', as he put it…

Even though he seemed to have a grudge against him.

And he had the nagging feeling that it concerned a certain Princess.

Makoto tried to stop the quarrel. "Alright, you two, now's not the time to-"

"And YOU!"

Kazuichi's pointed finger directed towards the Luckster cut the later dead on his tracks, as he questioned, "Uh? Me?"

"Yeah, YOU!" the sharped toothed boy continued. "Why did you have to be electrocuted?! Damn it! As if that weirdo's shitty luck was not damn enough! If Sonia-san learn abou-"

"If I learn about what, Souda?"

The feminine voice made Kazuichi stop and even made him gulp. For when he turned down, the form of his crush, Sonia Nevermind, the Ultimate Princess, who was just in front of the door… and who was staring dangerously at her two classmates. The Mechanist tried to raise his voice. "S-Sonia-sa-"

"Do not speak any longer," Sonia scolded him sharply. "I came here in halt when I've heard what happened to Naegi-kun, and here you are, putting the blame on him while he is the main victim." She closed her eyes. "So disappointing, even coming from you."

"B-But I-"

Makoto could only stare in surprise, as Nagito tried to help the poor Mechanist. "Actually, he is injured as well, Sonia-sa-"

"And you," the Princess cut him off, "do not defend a guilty person. Naegi-kun's injuries could have been far worse, and you are also implied in this incident. Therefore, I do not see any reason to raise your voice."

The Lucky Student happily complied, as the Princess came towards Makoto-

"S-Sonia-senpai?!"

And took him in her arms, ready to take him for a bridal ride.

"Come now, Naegi-kun. This room is not the most appropriated, considering the people in it… and their smell."

And with that, Sonia left the room, with a blushing Makoto who tried to hide his embarrassment. It leaves an amused Nagito to smiles in an odd manner… and a crushed Kazuichi who was crying on the floor, completely depressed.

"Ow, cheer up, Souda-kun." the Lucky Student tried to reassure his friend. "At least she didn't hit you."

"Some guys…"

"Uh?"

"Some guys just have all the luck here! I swear, you Lucky Student are just conspiring against me!"

Nagito sighed of exasperation. "This again?"

"Are you feeling comfortable, Naegi-kun? Is this place okay on your back?"

"Y-yeah, this will do. Thank you, Sonia-senpai." Makoto sheepishly answered, scratching his cheek. Right now, they were in the cafeteria, waiting for Teruteru to prepare a special meal for the two of them, as a request from the princess. The Luckster could still not get rid of the idea of the Princess giving HIM a princess ride.

God, that was embarrassing.

"But you're most welcome, Naegi-kun." She smiled in return. "Your health is quite important, you know."

"Souda-senpai's and Komaeda-senpai's are injured too, you know…"

"They have deserved their punishment. So please, do not worry about them."

Makoto sweatdropped again at the comment. She cared about his safety, but not about her on classmates? Talk about favoritism.

"Y-you know," he asked, "you're not forced to anything like this for me, right?"

"Maybe so," the Princess answered, "but I feel like I have to. What kind of princess would I be if I wouldn't be here for a gentleman like you?"

The Luckster widened his eyes in shock. "M-me? A gentleman?!"

"But of course!" she replied happily. "What you did for me was absolutely kind, and I did not even ask you anything, but you still did it anyway for my sake." She then got up and bowed at him. "I would like to thank you. Not only as your friend, but as the princess of Novoselic as well!"

Makoto could only stare at her in surprise. That was the third day he got thanks from his upper classmates, but it still surprised him, because he didn't feel like he did anything that great.

He simply noticed that she missed her home, which was completely normal for him. If he was in her shoes, he would definitely feel the same. Not seeing his family, or those he cared about for a while, would affect him in the same way.

He was lucky he found by accident the embassy of her kingdom. And he was also lucky to meet the King and Queen, who revealed themselves to be humble and nice people. Didn't stop Makoto to be nervous as heck. It was not every day he was in front of royalty people, aside from Sonia herself.

He was also lucky that they decided to surprise their daughter with a visit to the school. Granted, he was surprised that they did not inform her of such an important information, but he understood that they wanted her to focus on her studies, unless something really bad happened.

And he was ultimately lucky that they needed someone to guide them, as they arrived not too long ago. And that they accepted him to help. He seemed to have gained their attention very quickly. Even the guards seemed to be interested in him, or some reason.

Yes, it was all due to luck. The meeting, the surprise at the play when Kyouko had a tender moment with her father, everything.

The outcome was obvious: Sonia broke down. But the tears she shredded were those of joy. That, Makoto knew without a doubt.

And Sonia knew now who Makoto was… he was a hero.

In fact, his appearance and his personality were quite similar to a hero in a cherished legend in her country. He even had the ahoge!

Plus, he had some knowledge about Novoselic as well! Apparently, one of his former assignment at his old school was some research involving her country.

If she combined all of those facts… it looked like she had found her hero. Someone with who she would like to share her life with.

If only Kazuichi and Teruteru were not in the way. That would have saved her some major trouble… especially with concurrence.

"Incomiiiiing!"

A… speaking of the devil, a dashing, small and plum figure interrupted their moment… along with a delicious smell, coming from a metal container that the boy brings with him. "Ah, Hanamura-senpai!"

"Hello there, dear Naegi-kun." Teruteru chuckled. "It seems like you had some trouble again, don't you?"

"You have no idea…" the Luckster sighed in a tired manner.

Sonia, frustrated by the Cook's remark, decided to hide for the moment. "So, have you prepared what I asked?"

"Why of course, mademoiselle!" Teruteru beamed, bringing the container to the table. "One Versailles-style queue de boeuf, coming ahead!"

"V-Versailles what?"

"Basically, it's nikujaga, Naegi-kun."

"Oh. Okay."

Makoto then remembered something. "Wait a minute, isn't that the plate from last time when you all… went weird?"

That got everyone's attention, and notably Teruteru's. "Umm? So you know about this story then, Naegi-kun?"

"Yeah, I think that Saionji-senpai talked about it."

That ruined Teruteru's mood a little, as the memory of that day flowed back in his mind. "Oh. I see. That girl should seriously stay away from what's not hers."

"Why did you had an aphrodisiac with you in the first place?!"

"I-I'm not the one who put it in the meal!"

"It is irrelevant now, so I suggest we do not talk about this any longer." The princess ordered in a polite yet forced manner. As Makoto understood, she also remembered a certain event that happened to their class around their first year, and that he was lucky enough to not be dragged in.

"Come on, Naegi-kun. Open your mouth."

Makoto blinked and turned around to see Sonia handing her a fork with meat and noodles. It made him slightly blush again, but he decided to shrug it off and complied, as he closed his eyes and opened his mouth. The next thing he tasted was like an explosion of savor, which he could not describe it. And his face seemed to say long about it.

"Teehee, I assume that you like it?" the Princess giggled. "That's good to see."

The ahoge boy blushed again. "Y-you can't really blame me. It was really good." He then turned his attention towards the Cook. "Thank you, Hanamura-senpai."

"Oh, but it's quite an honor, Naegi-kun! I'm glad that you like it!" He stood proudly. "Then again, what do you expect from me, the Ultimate Chief?"

"That's true. You're definitely amazing." Makoto smiled again.

"Of course! Now then," he then turned towards Sonia, "it wouldn't be fair to give attention only to Naegi-kun, right! I believe that I need some reward for thi-"

"Hanamura-san?"

"Uh? Yes?"

"What is that burning smell?" The royal girl questioned. "Did you forgot something in the oven?"

The two boys began to smell, and Makoto held his nose. "Eeew, yeah, it smells like something is burning, Hanamura-senpai! What did you prepare this time?"

"I-I don't know," the Cook defended himself. "I haven't cooked anything, except that nikujaga for you two."

"Let's check it out." Makoto got up and then bowed to Sonia. "Thanks for the little taste, Sonia-san! See you later!"

Before she could protest, the two boys headed to the kitchen, leaving Sonia to sigh in a sad manner, bothered that her moment as interrupted in such a hazardous moment. Even the taste of the plate was not going to change that.

"I can't believe all of the lights in the kitchen just fried out like that! How did this happen?!"

Teruteru's complaints were shared with Makoto, as this turn of event was completely unexpected. Because of that, they had to take every light bulbs from all of the lamps in the kitchen, and the fact that the incinerator was closed for some reason did not help at all. Therefore, they had to take it all outside, near a dark corner that Makoto did not like… for some reasons. And if he was right… his current company would prove those fears to be right.

"You got me there, Hanamura-senpai," he told the Cook. "But I wonder, were they knew?"

"Yes! That's the thing that bugs me the most!" the short boy shouted. "Souda-kun changed them just tomorrow! How can he mess up things that badly?!"

"Are you sure someone else didn't touch it?"

"I don't know! We left just after we cleaned up the place!"

Makoto winced. For he already had an idea about who could have done it… someone who just arrived at the academy.

"Hey, Naegi-kun…"

"Uh?"

"Are you sweating right now?"

Makoto gulped, for he knew what was coming. "Uuum, yes?"

A nose bleeding could be seen on the Chief wanna be's face. "What a coincidence! I'm also sweating like it was the end of the world!" He then approached him in a dangerous manner. "Come on now, I would need some help over there.~"

The poor Luckster could not even move back, as behind him was a corner. If there was one thing that has not changed in Teruteru, it's the fact that he was a big pervert… well, only with boys. With girls, he tried a more romantic approach, even though sometimes, he could let this side get the best of him. Regardless, it's something that annoyed Makoto most of the times… and that scared him more than once. This moment was one of them.

"Oh, come on now, Naegi-kun." The Cook continued his approach. "You know I'm not ingrate to the point of not returning the favor, right?" His nosebleed seemed pretty unstable now-

CRAPROW!

Thankfully, the two massive shadows that crashed right into the trash were his saviors.

"Oi, the hell you're doing to Naegi, pork boy?!"

"YOU TWO SHOULDN'T BE WASTING YOUR ENERGY LIKE THAT!"

Makoto recognized those voice immediately. "Owari-senpai! Nidai-senpai!"

Teruteru seemed to have as well, since he was sweating again… but for another reason. "Hey, come on, Owari-san, I was simply-"

POW!

A simple blow for the Gymnast was enough to make him crash on the floor, yelping in pain, with a smoking bump on his head.

"I can't leave you alone for two minutes, pork boy?!" Akane fumed in frustration. "One moment you're trying to flirt with the other girls, and next one you're trying to do some kind of shitty things to Naegi! Seriously, what the hell is wrong with you?!" She then turned to the Luckster and asked, "You okay over here, little buddy?"

"Y-yeah, I'm fine," he answered in a relieved way. "Thanks, Owari-senpa-"

He stopped dead in his tracks, when he felt a powerful grip on both of his shoulders and-

"YOU IDIOOOOOT!" the Team Manager yelled while shaking the poor Luckster with ease. "If you want to train, you have to do it with the right partner AND in the right conditions! Here, you'll simply deform your entire skull!"

"Oi old man, stop! You're making him even dizzier!" Akane had to snatch Makoto out of Nekomaru's grip to make him stable again.

Once he was able to speak again, he asked, "W…What are you guys… doing here?"

"Sensei wanted to prepare us for the event, as a sports festival." The Team Manager said, calming down a bit. "And since you both weren't returning from your task, she asked us to look after you two."

"But how did you find us?"

"With your smell, dummy." Akane responded, with some spit on the side of her grin. "You smell yummy. Did Hans made some food or something?"

"W-well yes, actually," the voice of the Cook could be heard as he lifted his head up. "I-I've prepared something on Sonia-san's request, so I don't really deserve to-"

Once again, Nekomaru's grip made him shut up, but this time… he took him under his armpit. "Uh?"

"We're going now. You guys are already late, and there's no way I'm going to let you miss one of my special training."

The complaints of the surprised Cook were simply unheard, as Akane went towards Makoto-

"Uh?"

And took him on her back. "Hold on tight, little buddy. Things are gonna get rough!"

"W-wait a minu-"

"Now then, LET'S GO!"

The two athletes took a great jump and took an incredible speed, with 1 screaming boy and another one who tried to keep calm. As expected from class 77-B…

"Hey, you should try it Naegfi! Chis chtuff ich like chuper tachty!"

Once again, the Luckster was in the cafeteria, eating lunch with his seniors. But while he and Nekomaru were taking their time, especially Makoto since he already took a bite of the plate Teruteru made earlier, Akane was going wild on her plate, forcing the poor Cook to work extra fat in order to fill her monstrous appetite… not something that he's not accustomed too, yes, but still.

"I… I prefer to do it slowly, Owari-senpai." Makoto answered, in an awkward and tired manner. "I-I just don't want to rush things with food right now. Especially with Nidai-senpai's training."

"Owww, but itf's all gonna be wafted if you don't eat!" She gulped it down. "Besides, you said you wanted to be stronger, right?"

"Well I-"

"Owari, Naegi is right." Nekomaru went to the Luckster's rescue. "If you keep eating at this speed, you're just risking to damage your health carelessly and uselessly."

"If I gain some height, I'll just have to move, and then I'll be back to normal, no sweat!" she protested. "Heck, I ate like that since I'm little, and I've never had any kind of problem like that!"

"But one day you will for sure." He then closed his eyes. "And what's telling you that you'll be able to move anymo-"

He stopped dead in his tracks, and placed his hand on his chest. That was enough to make his friends look at him in worry.

"Nidai-senpai?!"

"Y-you're okay old man?!"

"Guuuh…" he grunted in pain, before beginning to breathe normally. "Y-yeah, I should... be alright for the mome-"

Apparently, he did not recover quickly, as he almost fell on the ground, if it wasn't for the two others to grab him by the arms.

"You're definitely not okay, Nidai-senpai!" The Luckster shouted in a worried tone. "You need to be carried to the infirmary, pronto!" He then places himself under the bigger boy's left armpit, while the other senior took the other side.

"I swear, old man!" the Gymnast shouted. "You seriously need to follow your own advice! Look at yourself, trying to be tough while you're obviously hurt!"

It took them a little time to take him to the infirmary, but once they were just in front of the door, they decided to let Mikan take care of the rest, while the two others waited outside.

"Damn it…" Akane muttered under her breath. "It's happening more often now…" she clenched her fists. "Why the hell does this has to happen?!"

'It's probably his sickness…'

Makoto did not want to say it out loud, for it would certainly make his senior mad. Instead, he decided to say, "Owari-senpai, Tsumiki-senpai is taking care of him right now. He should be fine for the moment."

"Yeah, for the moment! But what next?!"

Her angry shouting surprised Makoto. "O-Owari-senpai..."

"Yeah, that cheek can take care of him alright!" She continued to shout. "Heck, it's what she's been doing since she's here! But it's been since the beginning of the year that it's happening! Even if he's strong, it' obviously hurting him!" She clenched her first. "I-if he doesn't make it I swear that I-"

"Owari-senpai."

The hands of the boy on hers made her stop. Now it was her turn to be surprised.

"Please listen to me, Owari-senpai. I'm as worried as you regarding Nidai-senpai's health. But we have to stay strong. We can't lose hope."

"B-but…" Akane tried to protest, small tears appearing on the corner of her eyes. "B-but his life is on the line, damn it! We don't know when it will happen, because it could happen at any freaking moment! A-and when he will-"

"I know, Owari-san. I know." Makoto tried his best to not lose it. "But that's the reason why we have to be here for him every day from now on. So we can create the most memories with him."

That surprised her even more. "W-wha-"

"He's one of the reasons why your classmates are like a family, right?" he continued, determined to make his point. "He taught all of us to stay strong no matter what right? So break down like this while he's alive is simply not an option. We have to stay strong until the very end." He then smiled at her proudly. "It's what he would want."

She was a little surprised at this at first, but she then shook her head in order to dismiss it, then turned to him with a little smile on her face. "Y-you're right. H-he's not going to give up without a fight, and we're going all the way with him!"

"That's the spirit!" Makoto declared proudly, glad to see his friend's mood lightened up, if only a little. "We have to-"

He did not have the time to finish, as she just took his head… and pressed it against her chest.

That of course made the Luckster blush madly. "O-Owari-senpai?!"

"You're always so cool, you know?" Akane pronounced with a calm voice, eyeing him in a gentle way. "Back then too, you were awesome, and you still keep being like that…" She then pressed his face to her cleavage even more, much to his embarrassment. "Don't ever change, okay?"

Makoto was still blushing, but he understood what she meant, so he only said, "I-I promise, Owari-senpai. B-but you know, you can also talk to me if you're not feeling alright." He looked up to her to see her grinning. "N-now, can you please-"

"Always saying that kind of stuff aren't ya?" Akane couldn't help but laugh, ignoring her blushing friend. "That's why you're my little buddy, you know!"

"I-I guess so…" Makoto joined her in her chuckle, despite his position. It didn't really help his blush on his face, but whatever made her happy, so…

That didn't mean he was not bothered by some of her bold actions. And the fact that she had a… very good-looking body did not help in the slightest.

Granted, she had no idea why her actions could be seen as bad, considering the kind of things she had to go through in the past. All for the sake of survival.

Her survival, and also her siblings'.

It wasn't really easy to get to know her, too. Her pride and stubborn attitude did not make her a social person. In fact, aside from fighting, she was the kind of girl that would rather be alone the than stay with each other. Not that she was a bad person, but it was a way for her to live. When people around her died commonly, she had to survive on her own.

So it as no surprise that, while she did not dislike Makoto's company in the slightest, quite the opposite, he was simply not the kind of guy she would hang out with. Not only he was not the fighting type, but his worries about her past were annoying… in the beginning.

But that didn't stop her to appreciate him. He was kind and nice, and he also cooked times to times for them, when Teruteru could not because of his… daily routines.

At least she was sure there was nothing weird in this that way.

And her siblings also seemed to appreciate his food. Something in which the Luckster took some pride in, considering he had some experience in basic cooking.

In fact, he did visit Akane's home a few times. And the kids fell in love with him instantly. Perhaps he was a natural at this, maybe.

The Gymnast had to admit, she was relieved by the fact that she found someone who could help her with them, considering it was hard for her to find food for them…

But she just couldn't imagine him doing anything else. She wouldn't let her depend on someone. No one helped her in the past, so why would that change?

Well… she had her answer when a fire started at her home. And by the cries of help inside of it, her siblings were still inside of it.

She was scared.

She didn't like to be scared. For her, it was a sign of weakness. But… she couldn't help but feel that way. Her family was in danger. They could have died at any moment!

And she was so grateful for Makoto to be here when it happened. For saving her siblings… and for saving herself from her own fear and recklessness. Even if it ended up hurting him in the end.

She was also grateful for him to let them stay in his house for a little while, and to even help him pay the damages caused by the fire. Truly, that's when she began to realize that… she could let him help her when she needed it.

So it was normal to repay him, right? He said he wanted to become stronger in case something like this would happen again, so she would gladly help him when his classmates couldn't.

Besides… she grew to really, really like it. His company, his smile… everything.

Too bad his classmates could behave like leeches sometimes.

"Uum, are we interrupting something?"

And it was something shared with most of her own classmates, unfortunately.

Releasing Makoto from her grasp, Akane glad at the origin of the voice, which was coming from Mahiru, Hiyoko, Kazuichi and Ryouta, with a look that made the two boys yelp and hides behind the two other girls.

Because yes, judging by her face alone, he could tell that they were disturbing something.

That did not stop the blonde girl to comment, "Kusu kusu… Naegi-onee didn't seem to dislike it, either. I knew you were into that."

Makoto tried to defend himself, but an irritated Akane acted before him. "Oi! What are you implying?! I put him here!"

"See?! That's what I keep talking about!" Kazuichi's voice came from behind their classmates. "His luck is being activated again! I told you that was his true talent!"

"I-I don't think that's right, Souda-kun." Ryouta tried to explain. "I-I mean, there must be a reason, right?"

"I would like to hear it too, you know!" The Traditional Dancer stared at the two pretty much darkly. "Why the hell would you put Naegi-onee's head between your jugs, sports girl?"

Feeling insulted, the Gymnast replied, "The old man was getting hurt, girly! I just got depressed about it and he comforted me, okay?!"

"And you really thought that putting his head there was a good idea to cheer yourself up?!" Mahiru exclaimed, clearly outraged.

"I just reacted like that!"

The argument between the girls was… something interesting to say the least and the boys were apparently too afraid to do anything to stop it. Not to mention, the way Akane was talking about it was very… casual. Makoto tried to interfere. "Uum, girls, I think-"

"NIDAI-SAN! I told you to stay down on the bed!"

"NONSENSE! I'm feeling better right now! See?!"

The two voices which were coming from the infirmary interrupted everything, as all looks went towards the Team Manager which went out, ignoring the pleas of the Nurse. And it didn't please the two waiters.

"N-Nidai-senpai?!"

"Oi, why aren't you listening to her, old man?! You could barely stand in your state!"

"T-That's what I keep telling him," Mikan cried, "but he just won't listen!"

"Well, as I've said before, I'm better right now!" Nekomaru said in a booming voice. "I feel… FULL OF LIIIIIFE!"

"Are you stupid?!" Hiyoko barked. "If Tsumiki said you can't move right now, then you simply CAN'T!"

"But I cannot contribute to the importance of this event as well!" he dismissed. "It would be insulting if I can't even help for something our dear under classmate worked so hard for!"

"I-it's not that big of a deal…" Makoto mumbled.

"B-but regardless, you can't just put your life at risk like that!" Mahiru scolded him.

"That's right!" Ryouta followed. "What will happen if you that happens again?!"

"I don't want to pick you up every time you faint!" Kazuichi yelled. "You're super heavy, okay?!"

"What's this ruckus about?!"

All of the students looked at the origin of the voice, who was none other than the Headmaster himself, who was accompanied by Chisa, who looked at them in a scolding manner. "How many times do I have to tell you kids?! Stop yelling in the corridors! You're disturbing those who are working!"

"I repeat myself, what is going on here?" Jin said, clearly getting impatient from the scene he was looking.

Makoto decided to speak first. "W-well sir, Nidai-senpai got a heart attack again, and we had to lead it him to the infirmary as soon as possible, but-"

"That stupid geezer tried to move while he shouldn't have to!" Akane cut him off. "Please, put some sense in his thick head!"

Chisa, who looked shocked at the news, turned her attention to the Team Manager. "Nidai! You just can't take useless risks like that, or your condition will get worse!"

"I-I keep telling him that, b-but-"

"But I have to show the example!" Nekomaru interrupted the poor Mikan. "What kind of Team Manager I am if I can't even help my friends for such an important task?"

Jin sighed. "Nidai, if you truly want to show the example, then you have to go the infirmary so your condition can be checked out."

"BUT-"

"Would you let one member of your team go in a match if he was injured?"

That statement was enough to make him stop dead on his track. He thought for a little while, clenched his fist, and then turned to Makoto.

"NAEGI!"

Said boy yelped in surprise. "Y-Yes?"

"I leave the good proceeding of those preparations to you!" The Team Manager yelled. "Do not slack it off, or else you will have to answer for this TO ME, NIDAI NEKOMARU!"

The Luckster was surprised at this, but quickly changed his expression to a determined one. "I won't Nidai-senpai! I promise everything will be fine!"

"PERFECT THEN!" Nekomaru laughed. "I know that you will not disappoint!"

'Then why did you threatened him if he failed in the first place?!' was everyone's thoughts.

Makoto also though something similar, but he decided to let it slide. After all, Nekomaru was one of the strongest people in the entire academy.

Not just physically, but also mentally.

Trying to teach those he takes care of in order to make them understand the importance of hard work and determination in order not to give up and to surpass themselves, not only physically, but in general, was something admirable for him in itself.

But the fact that he was working hard himself while being sick was something he has to respect. He liked Nekomaru really much, and his friendship was returned gladly. The older teenager liked the fact that he helped his friends with their insecurities. It meant that he was also helping them to achieve their dreams.

Just like him.

That's why he was so sad.

Because he knew that his time was cut short… and that his time will be soon over.

That heart attack from earlier was a cruel reminder of that fact.

But that's why he kept strong. He did not want to dishonor his senior's prideful smile.

Instead, he wanted to bring his friends even closer. Just like Nekomaru want.

The Team Manager then decided to follow Mikan, who was beginning to cry out of relief now that the situation was cleared up. And the Headmaster shared the same relief. "Well then, it seems like everything is back to normal." He then turned to Chisa. "Yukizome, those students are now yours."

"Uum! Leave it to me!" And with that, Jin left to his own affairs, leaving the Housekeeper to turn around to face her students. "Now then, dear rotten oranges!"

One comment for Kazuichi resumed it all. "That crap again?!"

"Geez, what a pain… why am I the only one who has to go all up there?"

"It's your duty as a man, Souda-kun! Also, you're the only one who's a mechanist here, so what are you complaining about?!"

"He's just afraid of some height! What a loser! He hasn't changed at all!"

"THAT GOES FOR YOU TOO, BANANA GIRL!"

"WHO ARE YOU CALLING BANANA GIRL, YOU TRASH SHARK?!"

"KNOCK IT OFF, YOU TWO!"

In another argument that was currently going on, Makoto could only stare at an awkward glance. Right now, it was 14:30 am, and the small group was at the exterior, near the hall entrance, in order to make some decorating yet again. Kazuichi was installing some sort of notice, on which you could read 'WELCOME TO ALL STUDENTS!' that he's made earlier, while the three others were simply watching him… and hearing his ranting.

"I just don't like that kind of stuff, okay?!" Kazuichi argued. "Even if it's my job, I still have some preferences, you know?!"

"Well, what about the times you installed some tinsels for the classes last year?!" The Photographer shouted back. "That was the same thing, and it didn't bother you back then!"

"That's because there was a roof at the time! You know, since you're inside a BUILDING?!"

"Oh my God!" Hiyoko complained next. "Listening to your pathetic whining is sending me more and more over the edge! I bet that even Naegi-onee could do it no sweat!"

That surprised Makoto a little. "W-what?"

And as if destiny was playing his cards, the Mechanist noticed something. Something that he decided to let the others know. "Oh, crap… oi, buddy, I would need some help on the other side!"

"O-Okay!" The Luckster was still surprised at the conversation, but that didn't stop him to go towards the second ladder and place it to the other side of the notice.

However, two people in particular were not going to buy it. "Uuuh, what you doing, Naegi-kun?" Mahiru asked him.

"Uh?" the surprised Makoto simply answered. "Isn't it obvious? I'm going to help him, of course."

"R-really?!" that somehow scared the Photographer a little. "Y-you're gonna do it?! I-I mean, it's your duty as a man, sure, but isn't that a little dangerous?!"

"H-hey, I was only kidding back then, Naegi-onee," the Traditional Dancer followed. "Y-you're not forced to do this. Shark boy can do it, you know."

"I'VE HEARD THAT!"

"NO ONE ASKED YOU!"

"What are you talking about, you girls?" Makoto laughed a little at this reaction, not understanding that change of heart from them. "Souda-senpai is the Ultimate Mechanist, sure, but he can't get on the other side like that. Besides, his hand is still injured, so I've got to make sure he doesn't hurt himself more, you know?"

Both girls looked at each other with worried faces, before Mahiru turned back towards the Luckster and said, "Fine! But you better be careful up there, okay?!"

"R-right. Don't worry." The younger boy sweat dropped at their attitudes, before climbing the ladder, under the benevolent look of his two seniors… and the annoyed one of the Mechanist.

Once arrived at the top, Makoto asked, "So what do you want me to do?"

"Just take the other side of that freaking placard," he answered. "We're gonna have to take it together. Try to aim the gaps I've made okay?"

"Right!"

At the mention of the task, the two others began to quake. Hiyoko turned towards her friend and muttered, "I've got a bad feeling about this, Mahiru-nee! We shouldn't have let him do this!"

"I know!" she answered, trying to keep her composure. "But what do you wanted me to do?! Souda asked him to go up there, and he was going to do it anyway!"

"Why did that idiot team manager had to have that goddamn heart attack?!"

"It's not something he can control, Saionji-san!" Mahiru's effort to be calm began to be wasted. "You know this as much as I do, so why are you saying that?!"

"Well," her friend answered with the same amount of annoyance in her voice, "maybe because Naegi-onee's up right now and that he risks some kind of stupid accide-"

"And DONE!"

"Phew, that was close though! Thanks, buddy!"

"You're welcome, Souda-senpai!"

The two girls interrupted their quarrel to see the notice perfectly set up, and both boys laughing.

"W-what?" Mahiru asked, completely blindsided. "You-you've finished already?!"

"Well yeah, it was quite easy you know!" Makoto answered with a big smile. "See, girls? Nothing happened!"

The two girls sighed in a reassured way.

"RUUOOOR!"

But that was short-lived, as they saw a bear running right in their direction.

"W-What the-"

"I swear to God, Naegi, sometimes you should just SHUT UP!"

The two girls just had enough time to jump out of the way of the beast, and Kazuichi also had just the time to jump on the pole on his side.

Makoto on the other hand, had no such luck, as the bear sprinted right on the ladder that he was still on-

KABLANK!

And tackling it with all of his might, sending the poor boy flying in the direction of the fountain of the park.

"NAEGI-KUN!" The two girls shouted in horror, just like the poor Luckster who could hope that he was going to have a nice landing… which would be unlikely, unfortunately.

"Blast it all! What in tarnation is happening here?! Why is my Ratataï Terror behaving like a demon right now?!"

The two girls turned to the side to see Gundam… with a broken lash in hand. Hiyoko asked in a panicked, but angered way, "Oi, shaman! What the hell is going on here?!"

"Foolish girl, haven't I already told you to speak to speak to me with my full na-"

"Now's not the time for your antics, Tanaka!" Mahiru yelled, clearly getting annoyed because of the situation.

Even though Gundam was offended, seeing the situation, he decided to let it slide. "Fine! You asked for an explanation, and thus you shall have it! Myself and the Princess were training my Terros for the upcoming event, when suddenly, one of them went berserk and-"

"Wait." Hiyoko said dangerously. "Are you saying that you lost control of this bear right now?"

"I hate to admit it, but I fear so." the Breeder answered, before lashing out. "And do not interrupt when I speak to yo-"

He stopped when he saw the two girls death stare, which was directed towards him. It was a stare… that would send any man on Earth directly to Hell. And it did not help that his partner, who followed him, was curious at the meaning of that sentence.

"Tanaka-san… what is going on?"

"I cannot believe you got so careless with your beasts, Tanaka-san! Do you not think about the security of others?!"

The poor Breeder had the scolding of his life by Sonia, who was one of the few students in his class that was okay with his demeanor, and by the look of his hamsters, he was all alone on this one.

"I-I apology deeply about this, Princess…" he muttered, clearly ashamed of the situation. "I did not wish for any of this to happen."

"You think that makes it better?!" the Traditional Dancer shouted while taking care of Makoto with the Photographer. "What the hell were you thinking, bringing a freaking bear like that?! I HATE bears!"

"Not to mention, you just hurt someone with your session!" her friend followed. "Thankfully Naegi-kun's injuries aren't that bad, but that doesn't change anything! If there's anyone you should apologize too, it's him!"

"Hey, don't forget about me you guys!" Kazuichi yelled from his spot.

Sonia sighed at this comment. "Tanaka-san, you've heard her."

"Yes, my lady." Gundam then turned to him and bowed slightly. "I deeply apologize again for this, dear familiar. I will make sure this will not happen again." He then smiled slightly at him. "And I will make sure that I will redeem myself."

"I-it's alright, Tanaka-senpai. And it's okay. I know that you will." Makoto said in a gentle manner, trying to hide the pain on his face. "But you know, I'm not the only one that got hurt. Souda-senpai is still waiting to be helped."

"THANK YOU, PAL!"

"We will take care of this, Naegi-kun." Sonia smiled at him, then, turned to Gundam. "Tanaka-san?"

"Yes, my lady." With this, the duo headed to the Mechanist's spot, leaving the three others at the fountain.

Makoto sighed, as he stared at Gundham who looked ashamed. He couldn't help but feel bad about him.

That kind of incident was something that did not happen very often, but whenever it did, it happened to him of all people.

And with bears most of the times.

That was a shame, because while Makoto was a little fazed by the Breeder's behavior, he really liked him, and Gundham also seemed to have taken a liking of him. His Four Dark Devas of Destruction, who were currently on their master's shoulders in an attempt to comfort him, were also comfortable with him, to the point that when he asked something, they obeyed.

If Makoto expected anything, it was not this kind of thing.

What the Luckster did not expect either was that he was the next one to be scolded by Hiyoko. "Honestly, Naegi-onee, you have to be more careful! I can't believe I'm going to say this, but even that creepy lucky boy take care of himself better than you!"

That caught him off guard. "Uh? R-really?"

"D-don't compare Naegi-kun, Saionji-san!" Mahiru scolded her, before turning her annoyance to Makoto. "But she's right. You have to be more careful, or else you're really going to be hurt!"

Makoto laughed awkwardly, looking a little sad at the comment. "Sorry, you girls. I guess it's just my doofus side again uh?"

That caught the girls to be surprised at the comment, fearing that they might have hurt him with their words, and that made the Photographer sigh. "Look, it's not like that. We just don't like to see you in trouble, you know?"

"Yeah!" the Traditional Dancer followed next. "At least you're not some kind of lazy ass who complain all the time like that Mechanist!"

"I CAN STILL HEAR YOU, YOU KNOW!"

"AND NOBODY ASKED FOR YOUR OPINION!"

"Be nice, Saionji-san." She told her, before the two shifted their attention back to Makoto. "But she's right, Naegi-kun. You're a fine guy… just be careful with yourself, okay?"

That made the Luckster's heart feel warm, before saying, "Thank you. Both of you." He then smiled at them. "You both became really good at supporting people now, you know? It feels good to be around you both when you're like that."

The two girls blushed at those words and looked away. "D-don't say nice stuff out of the blue like that." Hiyoko grunted.

That made Makoto laugh and remember their improvement.

Both girls were not bad persons by any means, at least… not in his opinion. They just… had some odd quirks.

The Photographer, for instance, was a girl who had high expectations from men in general, and when he saw him for the first time, she just thought he was not made for the job.

As for the Traditional Dancer, knowing her… dominating personality combined with her sharp tongue, she saw him as a perfect slave, seeing that he could be a nice pushover time to time.

But he was not a bad person by their standards. In fact, he was probably the most 'okay' guy in the whole academy.

Probably because when they compared him to some other men in their class like Kazuichi, Teruteru, Nagito or Fuyuhiko, he looked like a saint.

And thank God, a break from all of those weirdos was needed and appreciated.

Not to mention, he was a very helpful person which would try to do what they asked without complaining, so it was another plus.

What they didn't expect… was just how far he would go.

Like managing to contact Mahiru's mother and father to make her come to the school, for instance. In order to clear things up with the man.

Or to stand up to one of Hiyoko's shitty family member either. If he could call them a family, aside from her father, and maybe her grandmother.

Of course, Makoto was pleased to see the two women finally together. Even though he managed to meet the Photographer's mother by dumb luck. But like this, he could see that Mahiru really admired her mother. And he could see some of her insecurities about her own talent. It was a little sad, of course, to see her dad being scolded by the two girls of his life, but he could understand now why she was this harsh with males in general. He was just glad to see her family being happy.

Unfortunately, he couldn't be happy about the Traditional Dancer's gang. He understood a little better why she sounded so crude before, with such a despiteful, even violent behavior towards her. So much pressure on Hiyoko's shoulders… it wasn't right. And it was not right for one of them to try to slap her just because she did not do 'what she was supposed to do in the first place.' Some people might have thought he was crazy to prevent this to happen and talk back to them.

And he was going to pay the price for that if it wasn't for the security staff.

Makoto was glad to have been able to help. It was his responsibility for him. Not only as a friend, but also as a man and as an assistant.

You know, for not saying slave.

The fact that he was nice was something that they liked about him, but this… was a whole new level for them. And it seemed like Mahiru's mother and Hiyoko's father noticed it as well, using this as a teasing method for making the girls lose it, which worked pretty much all the time.

But… it helped them to improve. It was good for him to see Hiyoko being nicer to those around her, especially people like Mikan.

And it was also good to see Mahiru being more tolerant with some of the guys. Well, at least those who apparently deserved it.

But regardless, he… he became someone who've met their expectations. A man who would support them and take responsibility to make sure there would be happy.

Now, the fact that they also had the same attraction towards the same boy did spiced things up between them, of course, but hey, considering the fact that they behaved like sisters, it was not something that bothered them too much… when they didn't try to have his attention at the same time.

"Woof woof!"

Suddenly, a little quadruped form ran right towards Makoto's direction.

"Ah, Miko- Ooouf?!"

SPLASH!

The little form tackled him so strongly that it made the Luckster fall right into the fountain… but that did not stop it from licking affectionately his face.

"Ah ah, Miko! I-I'm happy to see you too, just stop!"

The poor boy could not bring himself to make the small brown puppy, a shiba more specifically, with a small ahoge on his head and washed-out hazel eyes, much to the girls' shock and amusement. It was a cute scene, yes.

Especially since the dog looked just like him.

"Miko, come back here. You can't tackle people just like that."

The dog which recognized his owner's voice, returned to it, allowing the Luckster to get himself up to see-

"Ah, Pekoyama-senpai!"

"Sorry about this, Naegi-kun. You know how Miko is always happy to see you." The Swordswoman smiled at him, with the dog happily being at the side of its master. She then asked, "Are you okay though? You look like you've been injured."

"N-no, I'm okay, thank you!" He waved his hands to reassure way. "I-it happened earlier, but I'm all right, see? Koizumi-senpai and Saionji-senpai took care of it!"

"I believe you." He then turned to the two girls, whose face were now showed some annoyance. "I thank you for this. Both of you."

"You don't need to thank us for anything…" was the Photographer's simple answer.

"Can you please tell me what happened?"

"Just ask the shaman and his bear…" the Traditional Dancer answered with a grumpy voice.

"…I see. Thank you again. I will deal with this later."

"…?" In all this, Makoto stared, confused and completely unaware of what was going on, and why the mood changed so quickly. The conversation between the three girls would be like this if their eyes could talk:

Hiyoko: Using your pet to steal him from us, uh?! Since when did you start playing dirty?!

Peko: I am a warrior, you two. You should know that I do not fear to face anybody when a challenge faces me.

Mahiru: Oh, because you think of us as challenges, uh?! Well, talk about a low blow!

Peko: All is fair in love and war, girls. You had your time to watch over him… and now, it's time to change paces.

In an instant, Peko then approached him and took his hand, making the other girls look at her, trying to hide their scandalized faces. "Now then please come with me. We have to dry you up now. Besides, Kuzuryu-kun wants to talk to you about something."

"Really?" The Luckster asked. "What is it about?"

"I have no idea, but it sounded important. Please follow me."

The ahoge boy hesitated a moment, but decided to comply. He turned to the girls and said, "Sorry girls, but looks like I've got to go. Will you be alright?"

And just when they were about to answer, Gundam and his Twelves Zodiac Generals popped out of the corner as the Breeder exclaimed, "Fear not, Naegi Makoto! For I, Tanaka the Forbidden, will assure you that every task in this area will be cleared! You can go without a worry!"

"Okay then! Thanks, Tanaka-senpai!" And with this, the two other students left with their dog, leaving a proud Breeder… at the mercy of the wrath of the two women.

"Three seconds."

"What?"

"You have three seconds. Don't waste them."

The voice of the blonde was dark, and full of venom, combined with the harsh looks of the girls… Gundham began to sweat yet again.

For he knew that if he stayed any longer, he would not be able to properly apologize to his familiar.

"Easy there, Miko. Don't lick his face like that, you'll make him all wet again."

The voice of Peko was soft, and she even giggled as the little dog showed his affection again on Makoto's face. They were in Fuyuhiko's room, as the Yakuza gave the keys of his room to his friend so they can prepare themselves for his arrival, which was the perfect opportunity for the Luckster to wash himself out as he took off his jacket and placed it in the bathroom and switched on the air conditioning so it could dry out faster. And next thing he knew, Miko jumped on his face and… you get the idea.

The Swordswoman took him into her embrace and started to pet him on the head, which it seemed to love. "Sorry again at this, Naegi-kun. I simply can't resist when he's acting like this."

"It's fine, don't worry about it." Makoto chuckled in turn. "It's a part of him, after all."

"Yes. He really is a playful dog." She kept smiling. "And I still cannot believe it is my pet. I'm quite relieved that he didn't run off when he saw me like the others."

"Maybe because he felt you were a good person, that's all!" the Luckster beamed, all the while happily looking at Miko. "Just look how he is happy with you! I can't believe anyone would abandon the poor little guy, but now he just loves to play with! All because you were there for him!"

"Perhaps… perhaps you're right." She sighed in a happy manner. "But I personally think that we saved each other. We have a lot in common, and… I think we both save each other from loneliness."

"I think so, too. You both are really-"

"But I believe it's mainly thanks to you."

"Uh?"

He saw Peko drop of the dog, before lifting her body up and smiling genuinely at the Luckster. "If it wasn't for you, then I doubt that I would be the same, and I doubt Miko would still be with me right now. And… I do not think we would be happy the way we are now." She then bowed to him. "Thank you, Naegi-kun. From the bottom of my heart, I mean it."

Makoto blinked his eyes in surprise, before laughing a little. "Hey, it's okay Pekoyama-senpai. It was a pleasure to help." He then smiled at her as he did as usual. "I just love to see you happy now. I think you deserve it."

"I do not doubt your words. But… I did not think I would feel like this. And…" She lifted up her head and smiled lightly, but sincerely. "I do not think I would be able to… smile like this one day."

"Well' I'm glad I was also able to help in that regard too. I think it's important to smile when you're happy." He then kneeled to Miko's level to pet him, which the dog seemed to appreciate, judging by the way it was swinging his tail. The Luckster then returned the smile. "And I'm glad you are smiling like this more often. It really suits you, you know."

The comment made the Swordswoman blush all the while looking away in order to hide it. Not that it mattered much since the boy's attention was on Miko, but if he had lifted his head up, he would have seen that Peko's smile did not leave her face. That she was indeed happy.

Yet, it was not always the case.

Makoto could still remember her when he met her. A girl who thought she had no emotions and no purpose, aside to serve and obey. And as such, who had no knowledge about feelings or socialization. Like a tool.

Which explained why she was on her guard most of the time. And especially when she meets people for the first time. That, Makoto was quick to learn. So he made a mental note to not mess with this girl.

She joined his mental list of people not to trigger anger.

Though, who could blame her? Being taught to be a yakuza heir's bodyguard was certainly not a walk in the park. The Luckster could only imagine what kind of things happened to make her feel like… an empty shell, to be nice. That's what he thought when she told him about her past.

And it didn't help that the person who she was supposed to protect… grew tired of this charade. What if this wasn't what he needed? True, she's been raised to think like that, but she as just taking things too far!

To the point of one day, almost hurting people who were close to Fuyuhiko. In other words, his little sister.

And a bodyguard who was doing the exact opposite as her task was useless for the mafia… so she got fired.

Thankfully, she did not have to fight alone.

The fact that someone who was helping the one that almost hurt him was surprising, yes.

And the fact that an animal was finally not afraid of her was also a surprise… but also a relief.

Finally, people and animals which were not afraid of her.

And to think those people taught her how to smile just by being themselves…

It was warm.

Both her feelings in her heart… and the fur of the dog.

She did not know why that poor puppy has been abandoned, but… she swore that from now on, she would protect it.

Just like she would protect the one that saved her. It was the least she could do from the one who saved her from loneliness.

She didn't know that kind of feeling felt so nice before… but now, she didn't want it to go away. No, she wanted more. She wanted to learn more with him. Because she grew comfortable with him.

It was something even Fuyuhiko didn't bring her.

CLANK!

"Okay Pekoyama, I'm he-"

"Woof!"

"Wha- get off me, you stupid dog!"

Ah… speaking of the devil, the Yakuza was now struggling with the puppy which jumped on the Yakuza's face when he entered the room, much to the boy's annoyance.

"Miko, get off him now." She said in her usual voice. "You know that he doesn't like it."

Said dog went back to its master, allowing Fuyuhiko to get up. "Damn it… why do you have to bring it everywhere?!"

"It's my dog, Kuzuryu. It follows me everywhere I go, and you know this."

"Whatever." the shorter boy grunted. "I'm here now. Go take it for a walk or some shit."

"…alright."

The tone of the two seniors was neutral, as if the relationship between the two became simply friendly. As Peko took Miko outside of the room, Fuyuhiko closed the door, leaving the two boys alone. The Yakuza looked at him and asked, "What the fuck happened to you?"

"Uh?"

"You've got one of my towel in your hands, and your pants are wet. Some shit happened to you again?"

"Oh, that?" Makoto said. "Y-yeah, you could say that."

"Christ, Naegi." the senior laughed a little. "Sometimes I question your title. Ultimate Lucky Student my ass."

Makoto sweatdropped, as he asked, "S-so what do you wanted to tell me?"

"Uh?" Fuyuhiko questioned, before realizing the question. "Oh, right. Natsumi wanted to propose you to go out with you and some 'shitty buddies' as she says."

Coming from the Yakuza's sister, that meant something. "Really? When?"

"Saturday at afternoon," he answered. "She would have told you herself, but because of those shitty rules, she had to ask me to do it." He sighed. "Seriously, I'm not some fucking delivery man." He turned back to Makoto. "You're okay with that?"

"S-sure! I'm completely free Saturday!" was his answer.

"Good. Now I'll have to freakin' tell her. Seriously, she could have just asked you later."

Makoto noticed his unusual annoyance. "Is something bothering you?"

"What?"

"You look kind of on the edge right now, Kuzuryu-senpai." Makoto told him while trying not to anger him. "You want to talk about it?"

The Yakuza looked at the side, thinking. Then after some seconds, he looked back at the Luckster. "Let's talk outside. I need some let off some steam."

"O-okay." Makoto sweatdropped again, as the two exited the senior's room. Knowing his temper, it couldn't be good…

"Goddamnit… that dog is freaking annoying as hell! Look at all those fucking hairs on my uniform!"

The shoutings of the Yakuza could be heard in the corridors, as the two boys walked to the directions of the senior's class. If Peko loved her pet, Fuyuhiko seemed to not share that.

"W-well, it can't really be helped," Makoto said in a timid voice. "It really likes you, you know."

"Well, I would like it if he didn't fucking throw himself on my face each time on my face! Goddamn it, if Pekoyama was not here, I swear to fuck I would kick him in the butt!"

The Luckster gulped at that comment. Considering that it looked like him, imagining Fuyuhiko lash out at Miko was like him lashing out at Makoto indirectly…

He preferred to dismiss the thought as he asked, "So, what's the problem?"

"Right." Fuyuhiko turned to Makoto with a determined look. "Listen, 'cause I'm not gonna fucking repeat myself, okay?! Look after Peko for me. And over Natsumi too while I'm at it."

Makoto blinked in shock before asking, "Uh? You mean, watching over them?"

"That's what I just told you, dumbass!" the Yakuza yelled, before sighing. "Look, man, you've got to understand. Since that… incident, we can't really interact like before. You know, family decision and all. Not to mention, she seems… more distant towards us, despite us clearing things up."

"O-of course…"

"And since you seem to be one of those she trusts the most, I'm asking you to look after her. You know, in case something shitty happens. He then frowned at him. "So you better take care of her properly, or else I'll fucking kill you! I mean it!"

Makoto yelped a little before answering quickly. "I-I will! I promise!"

"Good. And same goes for Natsumi. I count on you not to let her be in trouble when I'm not here."

"Got it. I'll do my best."

"You better." The Yakuza said, before sighing again. "Sorry about that. I just… fuck, I wish it didn't happen, you know?! Why did things have to go that fucking far?!"

Makoto could only watch his friend in a sad manner. The incident he kept talking about was what happened when Peko almost hurt Natsumi.

Since the incident, he and Peko had been on a much more neutral relationship. They don't hold any grudge against each other for sure, but since his family restricted her approach towards them, their relationship is certainly not the as solid as before. Even if Natsumi did accept Peko's apology… which was surprising

In an alternate universe, they would have managed to get past this incident. They would have made things work out somehow, and they could have restored their friendship… and perhaps become more than that.

Unfortunately, this was the timeline they were in. And things don't always go as planned.

Well, at least, she looked happier the way she was now. Even if it bugged him, he knew that someone like Peko deserved a break after everything she's been through…

Because of what he helped create.

And he could ask his friend Makoto to look after her. That guy was honest from the very start despite his pushover nature, he could tell from the beginning. And even if sometimes he scared him because of his swears… he knew he was a man he could count on.

"I promise she will be alright, Kuzuryu-senpai." Makoto affirmed, this time completely determined. "I can assure you."

"Good." Fuyuhiko said, before turning around to go to his own class. "Let's hurry up. I don't want Sensei to-"

Before he could even finish, he felt a burning sensation being forced into his mouth.

"Taste those, Fuyuhiko-chan! Ibuki prepared them just in time for the reunion! How good it is?"

"IT BUUUUURNS!"

Makoto watched, surprised at how Ibuki could manage to go behind them without them noticing. He tried so hard not to laugh at the scene. He did not want to be in Fuyuhiko's place right now…

And he knew that he would kill the Luckster if he would speak of this to anyone, even though he never did anything like this before. But hey, safety first.

The Musician's attention switched towards Makoto. "Makoto-chan! Here you are! Ibuki went all that way to get you and Fuyuhiko-chan!"

The Luckster flinched, wondering what could be the reason for her search for them. "W-what is it, Mioda-senpai?"

"Sensei asked Ibuki to go look after Makoto-chan because she has something important to tell you regarding your program for tomorrow!" Ibuki exclaimed with her cheery voice. "And since Peko-chan said Fuyuhiko-chan was with you, Ibuki decided to get you two!"

Ah… that was the reason. What a relief, honestly…

"Well, if it's just that, you didn't have to fucking burn my tongue off, you stupid guitar player!" the Yakuza exclaimed in a furious voice… only to be completely ignored by the Musician who grabbed the Luckster's arm.

"Let's go, Makoto-chan! It must be super important, so let's run together to class!"

She did not even let him be prepared or even respond, and dragged him with her, which almost made him fall. In all of this, Fuyuhiko only grunted before running.

"I swear, I'm gonna believe that idiot mechanist about Naegi's luck…"

"Ah! There you three are!" Chisa welcomed the three students with a smile. "Thank you for bringing him here, Mioda-san."

"Don't worry, Sensei!" Ibuki beamed with her nose growing. "Ibuki is a girl that can do anything!"

"What is…" Makoto tried to catch his breath. "What is what you wanted to tell me about, Sensei?"

"Oh, nothing really bad, Naegi-kun!" she answered. "The Headmaster gave me the instructions for your planning for tomorrow!"

"Really? What is it?"

"First off, he wanted to thank you again for help the other class." She said while smiling at him. "You're quite important for us you know? And I don't think I'm the first one who's telling you that."

That made him blush again. "W-well, I'm only doing what the Headmaster told me. T-there's nothing fantastic by doing what you've been told to!"

"But regardless, the hope you are giving us is fantastic, Naegi-kun."

He then turned to see Nagito, who was entering the classroom, alongside Chiaki, Zenku, Gundam, Hiyoko, Mahiru and Peko. And by the look on their faces minus Chiaki, it felt like he was going with his hope speech again.

Fuyuhiko was the one who resumed their thoughts. "Here he fucking goes again."

"You maybe don't realize this yourself, Naegi-kun," the Lucky Student continued with a smile, "but your actions symbolize hope! Just by being here with us, you give us the light of the sun itself!"

Makoto was not sure if he should feel honored, or if he should calm him down.

"Even in the dark times like those which happens to our dear class currently," Nagito continued, trapped in his trance, "here you are, making this trial better by your perseveration and your devotion to those you love… It is such an honor for me to be your upper classmate and to contribute to the power of your ho-"

"Komaeda-kun, I think he got the idea."

The quiet and calm voice of Chiaki was what made him silent, before the Gamer turned towards Makoto and told him, "But he's right in a sense, Naegi-kun. You're important to all of us, you know?"

The look on everyone's faces confirmed that what she was saying was true. That made the Luckster's heart melt again. First his class, and now his seniors? Talk about kindness.

"Ahem." The coughing of the Housekeeper made the attention of all students turn towards her, as she says, "I'm really sorry about interrupting this moment, but I still could not tell you what the instructions were about, did I?"

"Oh!" Makoto realized. "That's right! I still don't know about this? What do I have to do?"

"Well, to answer your question, I've got to ask everyone," she talked directly to the class. "Does anybody knows what happened to Kizakura-san this morning?"

"Uh? You mean to tell me he wasn't there today?" Zenku asked, frowning in annoyance.

"Knowing him, I bet he stayed all day home, drunk like the lazy sloth he is!" Hiyoko mocked.

"Weeeeell…"

The look of the Housekeeper was enough for an answer, much to the student's irritation.

"Oh my God! Is this guy for real?!" Mahiru fumed. "Seriously, he's a teacher and he can't control himself to go to work! How irresponsible is this?!"

"This is indeed very immature of an adult." Peko followed, with her dog at her side. "It makes me think about the first day at school, when we had him as a teacher…" she sighed. "Clearly, your arrival was a good thing, Sensei."

"Oh, I'm quite honored to hear that!" Chisa beamed, before saying. "But actually… there's more."

That got the attention of everyone, who looked at her surprised as she continued. "The Headmaster contacted me this morning, and he told me that he found Kizakura-san in his house… head first in the toilet."

Gundam was the first to react. "Disgusting! How could the Incarnation of Sloth penetrate in the Headmaster's house in the first place?! And why was it on such a condition?!"

"He didn't tell me the specifics details," Chisa continued, "but he said something about getting more high than usual."

While the others grunted even more, Makoto opted for a thinking face. Even if Koichi was the lazy drinker type, it was very unusual for him to let this happen. After all, all teachers had to come to do their jobs.

He then widened his eyes in shock. "Wait a minute… does this means that-"

"Well, yes, Naegi-kun." The Housekeeper said, understanding that he got the idea. "He's still at home as we speak, and he won't be able to do his job tomorrow again…"

"W-wait…" Chiaki said, realizing where this was going. "You mean that Naegi-kun has to-"

"Precisely. He will have to watch for his juniors tomorrow… for all day."

And then, the complaints started.

"Whaaaaat?! But Ibuki wanted to jam with Makoto-chan tomorrow! She wants to give everyone the best performance ever!"

"I-I was kind of hoping that I could ask Naegi-kun to be my model for my next photography session you know…"

"H-hey! I wanted to show Naegi-onee one of my dances! I couldn't even ask him because of your stupid bear!"

"Watch your mouth, demon! And you are not the only one who had plans with my familiar! The Terrors could not show him this time, but their potential are worth the sight!"

"If it's for hurting him again, then think again, Tanaka. I wanted to practice swordplay with Naegi-kun tomorrow. And Miko would like to spend more time with him, too."

"Then it will have to wait. Naegi, Ryouta would like to show you his work. And I have to show you some meal that will strike your fancy."

"Hahaha, look at all those persons who you just illuminated, Naegi-kun! This is the most beautiful sight I've ever seen! You're probably the most hopeful person I've ever met!"

The different voices of his upper classmates were overwhelming for Makoto. Again, that scene was really familiar.

"OI! EVERYONE SHUT THE FUCK UP AND LISTEN!"

The room got dead silence, as all stared at an irritated Fuyuhiko, who seemed to explode at any moment.

"Just fucking look at you, damn it!" he started. "All of you shitheads can't get over the fact that he HAD to do it! He doesn't have any fucking choices here!"

Makoto looked at his friend, surprised. "K-Kuzuryu-senpai…"

"I want to spend some times with him too, you know. But unlike all of you, I can fucking wait because the Headmaster asked him to look after another class, because Kizakura can't even do his fucking job!"

Knowing that the Yakuza will have some words with his classmates, he decided to back him up. "He's right you guys. I'm happy that you want to show me what you want to do, but if it's coming from the Headmaster, then I have to obey." He then offered them his trademark smile. "Besides, I know it's going to be awesome!"

Some of the students blushed at this, before Chiaki said, "Are you sure you're going to be okay, Naegi-kun?"

"Of course I will!" He beamed. "Besides, you have each other. If you need someone, then ask one of you guys. It will help you to create memories in your class."

Smiles appeared on everyone's face, especially on Nagito, Chiaki and Chisa's faces, who decided to speak. "Now then! Since this little argument is over, I think we should all prepare yourself for the upcoming event! Everyone, let's work hard together again!"

"YES MA'AM!"

And so, the evening started to fall on the school, as Makoto stared at the outside. Yet another eventful day: he was accompanied at school by Ibuki, and he helped Ryouta, Zenku and Mikan preparing an animation about the school. Then, he was being fed by Sonia and Teruteru after getting hurt accidentally by Nagito's luck, before he comforted Akane about Nekomaru's condition. The afternoon followed with him helping Kazuichi with some installations, before being again injured by one of Gundam's bear, which leaded Mahiru and Hiyoko to take care of him. Finally, he was escorted by Peko and her dog Miko to Fuyuhiko who informed him that Natsumi invited him for some trip with friends. Now, he was waiting for Chisa to end the class.

Meanwhile, the others looked at the Luckster in a kind way. Despite not being a part of their class, they really enjoyed his company… to the point of wishing he was the actual Lucky Student of THEIR class.

That way, they wouldn't have to deal with Nagito's issues.

"Alright everyone. Class is dismissed for today. Have a nice evening, everyone!"

"You two, Sensei!" Makoto told her, before standing up and-

"Naegi-kun."

He felt a hand on his own, and turned to see the Gamer smiling at him. "Would you like to play some games with me at the usual place? It's near the Elementary Course, I think."

"Sure, why not?" he answered, before turning to his friends and said, "Well, today was fun you guys. I hope we'll be able to pass some time together again!"

And with this, the two friends left the place, leaving their classmates to stare at the exit of the room… especially the girls.

"W-when did she began to be that fast?!" Was Mahiru's simple sentence.

"You're just being a slowpoke." Kazuichi answered, grinning at her.

Which made Hiyoko look at him deadly, making him look sweaty. "Whoever asked you, trash shark?"

"My my, what a turn of event again," Teruteru mused, before his rape face erupted again. "Perhaps it will result in the union of both of the-"

He could not even finish, as Peko's sword placed itself on his neck. "And you are not allowed to speak either, Hanamura."

"Jeez, it's not anything like that, ya damn perv." Fuyuhiko snorted. "They're just gonna play some stupid games, that's all."

"But! Buuuuut!" Ibuki shouted. "Ibuki wanted to play with Makoto-chan too!"

"And just like Kuzuryu said earlier," Zenku told her, "you will have other occasions. Now it's Nanami's turn."

"Oi, you talk as if he was her only friend!" Akane said, angered by this comment. "Don't she have that friend of hers from the Reserve Course?!"

"Maybe he's busy at the moment," Nekomaru suggested. "That would explain why she wanted to play with him."

"I have to agree there." Sonia followed. "Besides, she's the only one who has not passed some time with Naegi-kun. It's the least we can do for her."

"Precisely." Gundam agreed. "It would be unfair for us to not let her have a moment with a classmate when all of us had an occasion."

In all this, Mikan looked around the classroom, before saying, "Uum, excuse me to interrupt you guys, but… where is Komaeda-san?"

That made the other widen their eyes in shock, as they looked around as well. "That's right!" Ryouta shouted. "He was with us one moment ago! Where did he go?!"

"Uh?" Chisa looked at them surprised. "You mean you didn't saw him follow Naegi-kun and Nanami-san for a distance?"

That answer terrified the others to no end.

"WHAT?!"

"Thank you for accepting to play with me today, Naegi-kun."

"Oh, it's okay Nanami-senpai! I mean, you're the only one I haven't spent some time with today! And I wouldn't have refused anyway!"

The two friends were now at the fountain in the park of the Academy, playing some video games for a couple of minutes now, with the Gamer clearly leading the score, not that it mattered to her anyway, as she enjoyed his company before anything. The Luckster texted Monaca to inform her about his current position so they won't have to search for him everywhere.

"It still does mean a lot for me." Chiaki mused, her gaze still on the screen. "I mean, since Hinata-kun could not come today…"

"I understand," Makoto said. "It must be hard for him to see you and trying to work his grades at the same time."

"I can imagine…" she then lowered sadly her head. "But at the same time, I wish he could be here more often."

"I know what you mean. His absence must bother you a lot." He then turned to smile at her. "That's what the week of Adaptation is for. To encourage him to not give up on his dream… and to be with you more often."

That made the Gamer blush as she stared dreamily at Makoto. "Naegi-kun…"

"Always shining as always, Naegi-kun… that's why you are the emblem of this school!"

"C-can you please stop being creepy? Y-you're scary when you talk like that…"

Jataro's voice made the two turn to the side to see Nagito approaching them… with the kids who seemed to have a certain distance of security between him and them.

"K-Komaeda-kun?" Makoto asked. "What are you doing here?"

"Don't worry, Naegi-kun, the stepping stone of hope as I am will not bother you with Nanami-san-"

"Will you stop talking like that?!" Masaru yelled. "It's annoying!"

"-for I was simply heading home," Nagito ignored the poor boy, "when I crossed path with your siblings. I thought I might at least lead them to you so they won't be lost."

"Aniki had already told us where he was," Nagisa said in a cold demeanor. "So you didn't have to do that!"

"N-Nagisa!"

"Of course I didn't!" the Lucky Student replied, not losing the happy tone in his voice. "But if I didn't, then I wouldn't be able to see this magnificent scene! As expected from you, Naegi-kun!"

Makoto saw that the Warriors of Hope were getting uncomfortable with him, so he went towards home and told them, "Kids, do you want to go home?"

"Y-yeah, Naegi-onii. Please." Even Monaca was really nervous around him.

"Then we should go home." He then turned towards Chiaki. "I'm really sorry, Nanami-senpai, but I've got to go home. At least you can play with Komaeda-senpai!"

"O-of course. I understand. We will have more occasions." Chiaki made a reassuring smile. "H-have a nice evening Naegi-kun."

"You too, Nanami-senpai, Komaeda-senpai." He bowed to him, before turning to take Monaca's wheelchair and went back home. He could not see Kotoko turning back, neither did he heard her say "I'm sorry" to the Gamer… but she did.

Nagito did as well, as he waited for Makoto to keep away from them to say, "Well, Nanami-san, isn't this a beautiful sight before us?"

Said girl pouted at him and told him, "What are you doing here?"

That surprised the Lucky Student "Uh? I've already told you-"

"Not that, Komaeda-kun. Why did you follow us?"

Apparently, Nagito understood right away. "Oh, that! I just wanted to hear what you had to say about the situation, Nanami-senpai!"

"The situation?"

"The Week of Adaptation, of course." he continued. "What do you think about it?"

Now it was Chiaki's turn to be dumbfounded. "What do you mean?"

"Just answer the question, please."

The Gamer reluctantly obliged. "I think it's a good thing to happen, Komaeda-kun. It can reunite us with the normal students, and it can help them decide what to do next." She then frowned. "Why do you ask, because you don't think so?"

"Ah, but I don't think my opinion matters here, Nanami-senpai." The Lucky Student answered with a smile. "As long as Naegi-kun is the one who comes up with those decisions, then I'm fine with it."

That made Chiaku worry. "Why do you accept everything coming from Naegi-kun?"

"Because he's amazing," was Nagito's simple answer. "Despite his worthless talent and his look of an average boy, his determination, his devotion and his kindness made him believe in a bright future… and I would love to see this future with my own eyes."

Chiaki thought about his words for a moment, before saying, "Is it because… he helps us? Is it because he always seems so happy? Is it because he sounds so helpful?"

"YES!"

The answer made the Gamer flinch in shock, as the Lucky Student hugged himself in an excited way.

"You've got this right, Nanami-san… when I saw him for the first time, he looked exactly like a normal student, just like that friend of yours - Hinata-kun, if I'm correct - and he did not interest me, as I thought it was nothing more but a lucky piece of trash like me. And yet, the more I observed him, the more I realized how wrong I was!"

He did not even let her interfere with his speech, as his eyes swirled around, like a siphon of hope and despair. And he did not seem to have heard the rustle in the bushes near them, which was a sign that his classmates were close to them, listening, and ready to take action if he took it too far.

"That average boy who has the same talent as me is being continuously tortured by his talent, but each time he falls, he only grows stronger and stronger! And what's even more amazing is that, he uses his strength in order to help those he cares about the most! But you know what's the best part? It's the fact that he considered ME, a vulgar waste of a human, as those he considered a second family! That's why I think this person possess the key to my dream - A FUTURE FULL OF HOPE!"

FCHTAK!

Silence as heard after that slap. Nagito blinked in a confused way as Chiaki stared at him, in an angered manner.

"Listen to me, Komaeda-kun," she said in a serious manner, "and listen to me carefully. You are not trash. That's what we keep telling you since you are attending Hope's Peak Academy, but you just don't listen… even when it's Naegi-kun who tell you this."

Nagito chuckled. "Well, maybe it's because I'm not worth it-"

"YES YOU ARE!" the Gamer exclaimed in a tiered manner. "Naegi-kun and I keep telling you that you don't have to lower yourself to a simple stone just to make us happy! You are our friend, Komaeda-kun! You're my friend, you're Naegi-kun's friend, and he believes in you as much as I do! So please, don't say something that would certainly sadden him! Don't betray the hope he has in you!"

That speech surprised Nagito to the fullest, as Chiaki took a time to get her breath back. She hated to do this, but when the Lucky Student believed in something, it was near impossible to change his mind, unless the argument comported hope in it.

"Do you really think so?"

She lifted her head back. "W-what?!"

"Do you really think that…" he said quietly, "he cares about me? Even in my state? Even if I'm rejecting?"

"Of course he does! He wouldn't have tried to reach for you if it wasn't the case!" Chiaki said, getting her hopes up at seeing her friend listening to her.

"Then… do you think that one day… I can stand at the same level as him?"

"Of course you can! Everyone can! He told you himself that you could have your own hopes!"

That seemed to calm him down a little "My own hope?"

Chiaki smiled in happiness as-

"And what if tells you that… he became my hope?"

"W-what?"

"It's the first time that someone accepted me," he explained. "That someone tried to reach for me… that someone tried to befriend me."

"Komaeda-kun…"

"A-and for the first time in my life," he began to sob, "I could feel it, you know? I could feel that sot sensation in my heart, something that I could not control… I'm going to tell you this, Nanami-senpai…" he then fixed her with his look and-

"I've never felt so happy in my life than the day he gave me his hope."

The sincerity in his eyes and voice were as plain as day, and the fact that his eyes were on their normal state despite the tears was another proof that he was thinking what he was saying.

Chiaki placed him in a gentle embrace. "It's okay, Komaeda-kun. I understand what you mean…"

"Of course you do. I mean, you saw it as well, right?"

She slightly pulled off to face him. "Uh?"

"The hope within," Nagito chuckled. "The hope you admired… and the hope you fell in love with."

Some gasps could be heard as Chiaki blushed and looked back. "I-it doesn't have anything to do with this…"

"I really envy you, Nanami-san." the Lucky Student cheered. "For you to be able to have a relationship with the Hope of the School… maybe you'll even be able to bear his childre-"

"KO-KOMAEDA-KUN!"

This time, some grumbling could be heard, yet again, the two did not care.

Nagito summarized the first impression very well: average. Makoto looked average to both of them.

Chiaki was pleased because of his resemblance to a certain person she knew about. In fact, his person seemed a lot like him, except that he seemed kinder and more focused on others. Not only that, but he also seemed to enjoy their time together by playing different kinds of video games, when nor her classmates or her friend couldn't.

Nagito though, while he was polite towards him, did not see it the same way.

This person was just like: he was chosen by luck. Therefore, he considered both of them at the same status, which meant a piece of thrash…

Well, until he saw Makoto's demeanor with those around him: always smiling at the others, always trying his best to help people with their own problems…

At least, he was trying to be useful. He knew his place, just like he expected him to be.

Unlike a certain Fashionista whose name made the Lucky Student's blood boil in rage… well, he calmed out about her, but the disdain was still here.

And that was something he also thought about those Reserve Course students. People who spat on the wonderful Ultimates just to be a part of the school… truly a despaired attempt for attention.

So he was not really pleased when he saw one of them hanging on with an Ultimate.

But just like surprises in general, this surprise was hiding another one, which was bigger… and almost deadly for the people in the arcade that evening.

"Haha, this is quite the surprise! I didn't expect you to bring some people here, Nanami-san!"

The chuckling between the group of five people made Komaru yelp in shock as she hides behind her brother who seemed as shocked as the others, but who still tried to be polite. "K-Komaeda-senpai! I-I didn't think you would be here either!"

"Oh, but I like this place very much, Naegi-kun!" the Lucky Student beamed. "This room is so full of smiles right now… I'm really lucky to be here at an hour like this!"

Hajime was as scared as Komaru here, as he immediately felt that something was off with him. He asked Chiaki, "Nanami-san, who's this guy? Do you know him?"

"Well…" the Gamer hesitated, "he's one of my classmates. Hinata-kun. This is Komaeda Nagito, the Ultimate Lucky Student in my class."

That was when the Reserve student realized something. "Wait, you mean that Naegi-kun and this guy have the same talent?! Can somebody please explain?!"

"I'll do it." Makoto decided to step in. "You may not know this, Hinata-kun, but each year, a lottery is organized to choose randomly a... normal student to attend the school."

It didn't seem to please the other ahoge boy. "So there's a way to be a student of the Main Course while having no talent?!"

"Oh, but it's quite correct, Hinata-kun! That's your name, uh?" Nagito smiled at him, but fixed him… like he was going to die today. "Why? Are you angry at the fact that someone like you will never be able to stand out just like those wonderful Ultimates?"

That comment was beginning to ruin the good mood constructed in the previous moments, and it seemingly hurt Hajime, as Chiaki looked at him in a sorry manner. "Hinata-kun…"

"Hey!" Komaru yelled at him in a frustrated way. "What's the big idea right now?!"

"What? I'm simply stating facts here." Nagito continued, not fazed by her intervention. "People like him, who had to pay just to be a part of the school, don't deserve to be friends with the Ultimates who have the talent to bring hope for the future."

"What does talent have to do with anything?! We just want to have a good time together, that's all!"

"But can we really 'have a good time together' when we're not on the same pedestal? Why would you want to be with someone who prefers to pay for instant result instead of just working for it?"

"Uum, guys…"

"Komaeda-kun, stop it, please." Chiaki begged. "You don't think what you're saying."

"But of course I do. I even wonder, why would you pass time with him knowing that you will gain nothing from it?"

"Guys?"

"Nanami-san, Naegi-san, stop." Hajime put his arms on their shoulders. "I appreciated the gesture, I really do. But just look at him, he won't change his mind… and maybe he's right. Maybe it's not worth it after all…"

That made both of the girls gasp. "B-but, Hinata-kun-"

"GUYS!"

All of the attention turned towards Makoto, and not only the little group, but the people in the arcade as well. Komaru asked, "Uh? What's wrong, Onii-san?"

"Don't you hear that weird sound right now?!"

All of them silenced themselves and listened for a while before Hajime said, "I don't hear anythi-"

CLICK. CLICK. CLICK.

And then, the sound came in their ears, making everyone surprised.

"Uh? What is it?"

"What the hell?"

"Is this some kind of prank or something?"

CLICK. CLICK. CLICK.

Nagito chuckled. "Well, this is unexpected. What can this possibly be?"

Everyone looked at the source of the noise, before the Gamer widened her eyes in shock… and terror. "Oh… oh no…"

"Uh?" Makoto asked. "What's wrong, Nanami-san?"

CLICK. CLICK. CLICK.

"I-I just realized something…" Chiaki said in a scared way. "T-that sounds… it sounds like… a detonator!"

That surprised everyone near the group as Hajime exclaimed, "A-a bomb?! That's freaking ridiculo-"

"Oh my fu- THERE'S A BOMB IN ONE OF THE ARCADE BORNES!"

The scream of terror of one of the person made the room erupt in panic.

CLICK. CLICK. CLICK.

Makoto was the first one to react by yelling, "EVERYONE, TAKE COVER!"

He did not need to be repeated twice, as everyone tried to hide as far as possible. Makoto only had time to hide his friends and sister behind a small wall, far enough from the trapped arcade borne-

CLOCK!

And then, the world sounded like hell with explosions, fire and smoke all over the place, alongside broken glass, falling pieces of the ceiling and screams of pure terror.

It took some moments for Makoto to recover from the initial shock. Some of his classmates could maybe handle it just fine, but he was but a mere normal student. Even with some practice in this kind of situation, it was hard to keep calm.

The first thing he did was to see if his friends were not hurt. "Are you guys okay?!"

"Y-yeah… I think we're alright, thanks." was the relieved answer of Hajime, who was hugging Komaru and Chiaki in order to reassure them.

"HEY! HELP ME! ANYONE, PLEASE HELP ME!"

The cries of pain were coming from one of the girls in the room, who was now near her boyfriend… who happened to be under some piece of the ceiling. Thankfully, he seemed still conscious... for now.

Makoto did not hesitate a second and turned to see his friends. "Hinata-kun, please help on this one!"

"R-right!"

The two ahoge boys went towards the two victims, went on the side of the piece and raised it so the girl could pick the boy up. "Are you alright?! Please, hang on!"

The other boy was injured, but the sight of his chest rising and lowering itself was enough for her to be relieved… for a short period of time.

"Let me out of here! I DON'T WANNA DIE HERE!"

"Will you calm down?! You're not the only one here, dude!"

"W-why won't the extinguishers work?! E-even the sprinklers don't come out!"

"T-The emergency doors won't open up either?! What the fuck is happening?!"

"It's over… It's freaking over… WE'RE ALL GONNA-"

"EVERYONE! LISTEN TO ME!"

All the attention turned once more towards the Luckster, who had a determined face despite his fear. The scene that he was spotting was awful. The fire was spreading all over the place, to the point that blocked the exit. And yet, nothing came to try to put out the flames. Panic, anger and fear were present on everyone's face, and some people were knocked out because of the blast… it was a miracle that nobody was injured he knew that if he didn't do anything about it, everyone would die, including his friends. And letting them panic was not a solution.

He instructed the two oldest boys, "Help those who are injured, and bring them in a safe spot!" Then it was Komaru and Chiaki. "Try to call for anyone! The police, the ambulance, the firemen's, ANYONE!" Then his attention turned to the others. "To all of those who have enough strength, bring back here dish soap, empty plastic bottles, paper rolls, baking soda and vinegar! Anything that can put out that fire!" He then spotted three strong people. "When the path will be cleared, you will force the door to open for everyone to get out! Understood?!"

The voice and instructions surprised everyone, but seeing that he was the only one that was giving orders, they decided to oblige and nodded in response. "Good. We don't have much time! Let's hurry!"

All of the groups followed the instructions given by the Luckster, surprised at the little guy's confidence. Komaru was impressed that her brother would act like a hero in this kind of situation, and the fact that he was here for her after she noticed that the connexion would not pass for some odd reason made her relieved. Chiaki was also impressed by this attitude coming from her junior, as well as she imagined him as a protagonist of some video game, which made her heart slowly beat faster, but decided to dismiss it seeing their situation. Hajime was following orders and doing his best to help the trapped person as well, but he had to admit, he did not imagine Makoto as someone who would take charge of things.

As the mixed liquid was finished, the group decided to throw it on the fire near the exit, which seemed to force it to retreat with time, much to everyone's relief. When that time arrived, the group who was instructed to open a way out braved the remaining flames, broke the main entrance which was oddly enough locked, but not strong enough to keep it shut, and helped those who were unconscious and those who were losing it because of the smoke.

Makoto's group was the last one to get out of the small building, and like the rest, were immediately checked up by some emergency vehicles which were lining up near the arcade, as the medics asked them, "Is everyone here?"

"I-I think so…"

"Hey…"

Makoto turned to see Hajime who was scared now. "Uh? What is it, Hinata-kun?"

"T-that white-haired boy from before - Komaeda-kun - where is he?"

That made the group and the medics widen their eyes as they looked around for him to no avail. "He-he… he was just behind us…" Chiaki murmured in fear. "Where is he?"

"Probably still in the arcade." One of the firemen near the group said. "Guess we'll have to-"

"ONII-CHAN?!"

The scream of horror from Komaru made them gasp, as they all turned towards the arcade… to see the Luckster going back to the building on fire.

"N-Naegi-kun?!"

"Hey! Come back here kid!"

"What the hell is he doing?!"

Makoto who ignored the warnings, entered the play place in flames as he yelled his senior's name. "Komaeda-senpai?!"

"*cough* Ahaha, you don't need * cough* to be so loud…"

As soon as Makoto turned to the voice's origin, he saw Nagito under a pile of pieces of the ceiling and some broken arcade bornes.

"KOMAEDA-SENPAI!"

The Luckster did not hesitate to come to the Lucky Student's spot and began to lift up the lighter pieces and threw it on the side, which surprised the older boy. "W-what are you doing? Leave this place now!"

"Not without you, Komaeda-senpai!" Makoto yelled with all of his strength. "If I can get out of here alive, I'm not going to leave anyone behind me!"

"But why?" Nagito questioned, as the Luckster tried to toss the bigger pieces somewhere, only to simply put them near him because of their weight. "Why would you risk your life for trash like me?"

"What's gotten into you?!" the Luckster yelled. "You're not trash!"

"Of course I am!" Nagito persisted. "Unlike all of those persons who could easily do their jobs with ease, I can't even do it without injuring myself… what a waste. Even my supposed talent is what caused this mess… I really am worthless."

"So what?! You really think that I *cough* will abandon you like that *cough* for this stupid reason?!"

"You probably should. Just look at yourself." Nagito chuckled. "You're beginning to lose it because of the smoke. If I could just stay safe for one moment, you wouldn't have to come back here… besides, you have friends who care about you, so why would you waste it on me?" He then lowered his head. "Just give up. Your life is better than mine. I really deserve to die anyway."

"YOU'VE GOT THAT WRONG!"

The shouting made the Lucky Student shut up instantly, for he was not prepared for it. Nor was he prepared to see the determined face of the Luckster, who despite his position and his breathing, managed to say those words to Nagito… something that was unfamiliar to him, and yet… it felt warm.

"How can you possibly say that your life is worthless when you have someone out there who want to see you alive?! All of those people who get out what to see you alive because they care about you! Because they are worried that you'll die! And of them is your classmate! How can you possibly give up on your friend's hope like that?!"

That surprised the Lucky Student even more, as the mention of hope seemed to have hurt him. "B-but… I don't have any-"

"YES YOU HAVE!" Makoto was not going to let him interrupt his speech. "You have Nanami-senpai who has accompanied you since the beginning! You have your classmates who never gave up on you even though they don't agree with you all the time! You have Hinata-kun who would certainly be nice to meet you if you gave him a chance! And you have ME! Someone who wants to save you! To help you! To be your FRIEND! So why won't stand up and fight?! Why won't you satisfy everyone's hope?! WHY WON'T YOU HOPE TO GET OUT OF THIS MESS ALIVE, WITH THE FUTURE OF BEING WITH SOMEONE THAT WILL LOVE YOU FOR WHO YOU ARE?!"

Nagito was speechless at this. Never had he met someone who tried desperately, and God knew how he hated that word, to save him and to be his friend, while the rest of those people who were probably waiting outside would have probably given up by now. He could only look at the man who was trying… to accept him. And trying to save him as well as he tried to raise the last pieces of the ceiling on him.

"There they are! Get them out of here NOW!"

The firemen quickly followed the orders of one of their partners who was present at the scene, as the strongest members of the team took care of the rest for Makoto and took the two boys in their arms, bringing them outside much for Komaru's relief who jumped on her brother and hugged him to the point of crushing his bones, and it seemed that the public was also reassured of seeing the two boys alive as they were taken care of by the medics.

The chief who was just getting outside yelled, "Okay, is everyone here this time?!"

This time, the answer was unanimously positive. The chief then advanced towards Makoto, put his hands on his shoulders and-

"Do you just wanted to kill yourself?!"

That took Makoto by surprise. "Uh?"

"Just what the hell were you thinking, you brat?! Don't you know that our job isn't dangerous enough for us?!"

Wait a minute… was he getting scolded? Sure, he reacted recklessly, but still-

"I swear, you kids today are really ready for anything just for fame or some shitty stuff like that! Once we're getting to your parents you'll get the scolding of your-"

"Oi, what the fuck?!"

The chief looked at the origin of the voice, ho as none other than Hajime Hinata. "What do you want, brat?!"

"That guy you're trying to ground here… didn't you see that he was the first one to go back inside of that arcade on fire just to SAVE someone?!"

"That's not his freaking job, kid!" the adult was completely unfazed at the comment. "He could have killed himself in here!"

"And if it wasn't for him, we could have all died in here!" Hajime continued with the same tone.

The chief was getting really tired of hearing him. "That's the thanks I get to saving you guys? Pathetic."

"YOU DIDN'T DO ANYTHING!"

Now the attention was on the girl who was still next to her boyfriend who was taking care of by the medics. "He-he saved my boyfriend… if he didn't act with his friend, he could have died! And me too! What were you doing while we tried to escape, uh?!

And soon, all of the concerned persons joined in.

"Yeah! None of the security systems worked, and all of the escape doors were locked! He was the one who came up with something, while everyone else was panicking!"

"Why didn't you go into that building and rescued both of them right away?! That's your job, for God's sake! You waited for a moment before deciding yourself!"

"We had to FORCE YOU to go in, you mean! And you just go in there and pick them up just to scold them like they were fucking kids?! YOU'RE the one who should be punished, you asshole!"

The chief could not believe it. He looked all around him. All of the angry stares and shoutings, which were coming from everywhere, were directed towards him, and he was all alone in this fight. Even his sidekicks did not approve his attitude right now… and that only contributed to his anger.

"Really?! You all think so?!" he growled, before throwing his fireman's medal on the ground and-

CRUNCH!

"C-Chief?!"

"Then let's see how you handle things without me, ingrates!" he shouted at his former co-workers, before taking his leave, not without expressing his anger. "I'm DONE with this BULLSHIT!"

The crowd only watched in shock as the older man disappeared slowly to their visions, before all attention turned back to Makoto with his sister asking, "A-are you okay, Onii-san?"

"Y-yeah…" was the dizzy answer of the Luckster. "I think I should be alright…"

"The nerve of this guy, seriously. Not only he can't do his job properly, but he's trying to ridicule you when you risked your life? What a load of shit." Hajime spat before turning towards him. "But I've got to admit, you really scared us to death when you did it, Naegi-kun."

"I-I just couldn't Komaeda-senpai die, could I?" Makoto answered while scratching his cheek again… before he saw the girl approaching him… and hugging him tightly.

"M-Miss?!"

"Thank you… thank you…" she muttered in her sobbing If you weren't there… I-I don't know what would have happened…"

Once again, the concerned people agreed with her

"Yeah, dude! You were amazing back then!"

"You've got some fucking balls to pull your shit together at a time like this, man!"

"I completely agree with them. You had some guts at that moment."

The clapping and cheering Makoto received were pretty impressive. From the victims to the rescuers passing by the bypassers, the smiles of recognition and even the thumbs up were something warm for Makoto who looked in embarrassment, chuckling and trying to dismiss what he did.

In all this, his friends and her sister looked at him in an impressed way. Komaru knew that her brother was someone that would help others if he had the chance, but now she knew how far he would go. Hajime was also impressed by the amount of courage the Luckster displayed… and it made him wish that he was more like him.

"Hinata-kun?"

He turned to see Nagito… who bowed in front of him. "I believe I owe you an apology for my previous demeanor."

The Reserve Course student blinked his eyes in surprise before asking, "Uh? What are you talking about?"

"I realize now that it wasn't fair for me to try to interfere with your relationship with Nanami-san…" he continued, before eyeing him in more gentle manner. "So, I know I shouldn't even ask for this, but… will you please forgive me?"

"O-oh, that…" Hajime said, before taking a moment and said, "S-sure, it's no biggie right now."

"I'm glad…" Nagito smiled. "By the way, I would like to properly present myself this time." He then offered his hand towards him. "My name is Komaeda Nagito. I hope we can get along."

Hajime took the hand on his own and shook it. "Hinata Hajime. Pleased to meet you as well."

"Hey hey! So you decided to be friends?!" Komaru decided to chirp in. "I'm so glad! Hey, why don't we play at our house right now?"

"W-what?!" Hajime said in a surprised manner. Chiaki followed by saying, "B-but… won't that disturb your parents?"

A hand on her shoulders and it was enough for Makoto to gain her attention back. "It's okay. They won't be bothered in a single way." He then scratched his cheek. "But we should probably explain to them what happened…"

"Onii-chan, you're gonna be in so much trouble when they find out what you've done!"

The two siblings who were now having an argument were leaving the area as well in direction of their home, ignoring the forces of orders and the cameramen who tried to interrogate them. Following them closely were the trio of friends who watched the scene in an amused way… and two of them were watching Makoto for some reason.

The reunion was full of relief and joy, as the two parents hugged their soon proudly. The incident was broadcasted, so of course they heard about what happened. Well, he was not on TV physically and his name was not mentioned, but the Luckster's state and Komaru's testimony were enough to corner him. After an emotional moment, Makoto proposed the three to stay in their residence for the night. Now, Hajime, Nagito and Komaru were playing card games, with Makoto and Chiaki watching in glee.

The Gamer decided to look at her friend before saying, "Naegi-kun… thank you."

"Uh?"

"Thank you… for what you did for the three of us today. I really appreciate it."

Makoto blushed a little. "I-I just did what I had to… I mean, the fire was progressing towards us, and-"

"I'm not talking about that."

"Uh?" That surprised the Luckster. "Then what is it?"

"I'm talking about… helping us with our problems." She answered with a smile.

"O-Oh that!" he said, getting it. "It's not anything particular, really! I was just helping friends!"

"But it's special for me, you know…" The Gamer continued. "I understood why Hinata-kun… was avoiding me all this time."

"Uh? Really?"

"Even though it wasn't right, I get why he did it." Chiaki explained. "I think he was… really looking down on himself for who he was… and that really makes me happy now because now that we're starting over again, he really seems happier back then, even when Komaeda-kun interfered…"

"Nanami-senpai…"

"And what you told him when you came back to rescue him… " She smiled at him. "That was very inspiring and strong, I think."

Makoto was taken aback by this. "Wha- you've heard me?!"

"Even with the fire, I could understand what you said, yes." She answered while keeping her smile. "Komaeda-kun is… not your average person you know? Because of his ideas, he doesn't have many friends…" she then looked at the three friends. "But now look at them… they sound like… a family of a sort… it really makes me happy because… it reminds me of the first times of my class." She then saddened her expression a little. "They were doing their own things because of their differences, and because of that… he and I were mostly alone. When I became class representative, that was no longer the case for me, but him… he still has a hard time now being with someone."

"Nanami-senpai."

She looked at him, surprised at the soft yet commanding tone.

"I completely understand why you say this, but you don't have to worry about being alone, and neither do them. Just because we are different doesn't mean it's a bad thing, quite the contrary. Life is too little to think that talent is everything. What I important is creating special bonds with those who you know so you can remember them."

Those familiar words made Chiaki widen her eyes in shock. "But… All I have are my games..."

"But you can play with others, right?" Makoto continued, surprising the Gamer even more. "Uh?"

"Games, physical, artistic or virtual, allow persons to befriend each other. You don't have to play all alone all the time!" He then looked at the group. "Look at Hinata-kun and my sister. They are normal, so they can go anywhere they want in this world. But us? We are linked to our talent, not that it is a bad thing, but honestly, look at me!" He pointed himself. "All I have is my luck, which sometimes turns out to be bad luck! Where do you think that would lead me in the future? That's where bonds and memories step into our lives…"

Chiaki looked at him in confusion, before asking, "Do you think… I could do it?"

"Of course!" He answered as he was stating an obvious fact. "Nanami-senpai is an amazing girl."

"R-really?" That made her blush while the Luckster continued.

"I'm merely stating facts. You're strong and gentle… kind of like a good nee-chan type of lady!"

"T-that just made you fill my affection meter… completely." Chiaki quietly mused and blushed heavily. After some time around him, she could tell that Makoto was an amazing person… just by going back saving her classmate, he looked like…

No.

He didn't look like, he WAS a protagonist, she was sure of it. And something entered into her heart. A newfound desire…

The desire to be… even closer to him.

"Dinner is ready everyone! Sit up now!"

The parental voice made the Luckster rose himself as he turned to Chiaki and proposed her a hand. "Shall we go?"

The Gamer blinked a little, before smiling genuinely and took his hand on her. "Sure thing!"

The five kids were reunited at the table, enjoying the dinner prepared by the Naegi parents. In all of this, Nagito could not help but notice the chemistry between Makoto and Chiaki… and the blush on her face.

At this, he couldn't help but chuckle.

"My, my… what a wonderful hope you are giving us… Naegi Makoto."

As the memories stopped, Nagito eyed his classmate and questioned, "But tell me, what do you think about him?"

That made her blink her eyes. "Uh? What do you mean?"

"Is he that great to your eyes?"

The Gamer blushed again. "Wha- I just think he's amazing, that's all!"

"Precisely."

"Uh?"

Chiaki turned to see the Lucky Student, fixing the exit with Makoto on his mind. "He's a wonderful person. Optimistic and loyal to his friends and family, he will not hesitate to help those he cares about in any way he can. He's so hopeful... and that's what I love about him." A smile appeared on his face.

"Because he has the ability to create the kind of hope… that will overcome and destroy any kind of despair it will face."

Alright, done. Phew... that was intense.

Correcting your grammar mistakes is not an easy task for me, because first off, I'm French, and second, I don't have eagle's eyes. And trying to rewrite some segments ain't easy for me either. So... yeah.

I just wanted to let you know guys, I will inspire myself of others fics. For instance, the moment with the explosion greatly inspired by 'A Meeting of Two Hopes' that I highly recommend.

Next chapter will focus on the NDRV3 cast. It's going to be a little complicated, considering they do not belong to the same saga as the others, but I think I'll manage. See you there!

Pupla out.