Chapter 7: Everyday Life with the Ultimate Gymnast


Hello again ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, Ultimates of all ages, wesst1 back again, once again!

I was glad to see that you all enjoyed the previous chapter. Honestly, I was afraid that the hostage situation might have been too much. But then again, if there isn't some fear for one's life or over-the-top ridiculousness or even some combination of the two, it's not Danganronpa is it?

So far, I've only gotten two reviews and one PM on the Danganronpa-Destiny crossover idea, but that's okay. It's a little out there I know, but now I think it could be a fun idea. Maybe I'll put up a test chapter after Forsaken launches and I get the Grimoire Anthology.

But none of you came here for that, you're here to read about Naegi and Owari. Now, parts at the beginning of this chapter are intended to whet your appetite for the Asahina chapter that is coming next, so please bear with me. Yeah, I could have done Asahina first, but this way I know some of you will come back for her chapter. With that out of the way, let's get to it.


Present Day

Naegi recalled that earlier today he had believed that he had gotten desensitized to just about anything that could possible happen at Hope's Peak Academy. He now realized that maybe that had been a bit premature. If what he believed had happened had actually happened, then there would be no getting used to it. He didn't dare check if he was right though, not until the weight on top of him had moved off of his face.

The weight soon did get off of him and a female voice said, "Heya Naegi-kun. You know you can look if you really want to." Naegi opened his eyes and came face-to-face with a smirking Owari Akane, who was now propping herself up with her elbows.

This wasn't the first time Owari Akane had crashed into Naegi, and he had a feeling it wouldn't be the last. He had no idea why but whenever this happened his head either ended up in her cleavage or under her skirt, it seemed that this time it was the former. Naegi did his best to keep his cheeks from turning red, both from those thoughts and Owari's comment.

"Owari-senpai, you really shouldn't say things like that so casually," Naegi told her. He had a feeling he already knew, but he asked anyway, "What happened?"

"The Old Man and I are fighting Ogami-san. Asahina-san's watching too if you're interested," Owari said. I could fight better if you're cheering for me, she thought.

"Owari-san, what's the hold up?" a female voice asked as Nidai Nekomaru, Ogami Sakura, and Asahina Aoi came upon the sight of Owari on top of Naegi. Asahina face turned red in embarrassment and jealousy. The other two just looked apologetic, they knew what happened when their training sessions met Naegi's luck.

"My apologies Naegi-kun, I used to much force," Ogami said.

"What exactly happened? I heard a loud crash or something a minute or so ago and came running over," Naegi explained as he and Owari got to their feet.

"Owari-san thought that if she and I teamed up we could beat Ogami-san. That crash was probably me when I collided with the building," Nidai explained. Nidai had opted for a blue tracksuit as opposed to his regular outfit, a wise decision since his tracksuit was sporting a large number of rips and tears. I doubt that tracksuit is going to survive this match if he crashes into the building again, Naegi thought.

"I tried to distract Ogami-san to give the Old Man an opening and got thrown into you," Owari said with a laugh.

"You're not hurt are you Naegi-kun?" Asahina asked.

Before Naegi could answer Owari said, "Course not, there was plenty to cushion him," while pointing at her chest.

Asahina turned red again, both in embarrassment and anger. Naegi was sure he imagined it, but he thought he saw Asahina hike up her own breasts in response to Owari's statement too.

"Our teamwork still needs work. It might be my fault, I guess I still have a hard time believing that this is the same Owari-san who always charged ahead by herself," Nidai admitted.

"Hey, I can change too you know. Besides, aren't you always saying how people can overcome anything by working together?" Akane asked indignantly.

"Yeah, I've been saying that to you since last year, and it wasn't until a few months ago that you decided to finally listen. Not that there weren't exceptions, but you were usually too stubborn or too proud to accept help when offered it," Nidai countered. After a brief pause, Nidai continued, "Come to think of it, you started listening to that advice after you started hanging out with Naegi-kun. Didn't you two start getting close after he got caught in one of our training sessions?"

"Yep, crashed into him back then too. That time his face was-," Owari started before Naegi cut her off.

"I believe it was right around here too," Naegi said. I know Owari-senpai is okay with saying these things so openly, but I don't think I can handle it. It's not her fault though, that's just the world she used to live in. I'm glad I was able to help in some way though, Naegi thought, as he remembered how he and the Ultimate Gymnast had become friends.

"Yeah it was. That was a pretty good fight that day," Owari stated. It was just a good day. Getting close to Naegi-kun was one of the best things that ever happened to me. Because someone finally came to help me, she thought looking back on how far she had come since that day.


Hope's Peak Academy-Near the P.E. Building

Sixth Week of Classes-Tuesday

Classes had ended while ago, but Class 77-B was still together. Owari had challenged Nidai again and had been looking forward to it all day. Nidai had happily accepted, whatever the reason, he was always happy to help anyone with their training. The rest of the class, well…

"I didn't think any of you would want to watch this," Nidai said.

"Yeah, we don't," Saionji responded.

"Every time you two fight or train or whatever, you destroy the school grounds and the rest of us have to help fix it," Souda added.

"We're just saving ourselves some time," the Imposter finished as he pointed towards some shovels behind him and the rest of the class.

"HAHA! Sorry about that," Nidai laughed as he rubbed the back of his head sheepishly. Despite laughing about it, Nidai did feel a little bad for causing his classmates trouble.

"C'mon Old Man, let's go!" Owari shouted as she charged at him. She was fast, but Nidai was faster as he easily sidestepped her.

"You've gotten faster, but your style is still too straightforward," Nidai noted. Owari never changed up her tactics, she always tried to charge in and overpower whoever her opponent was, something that was definitely not going to happen against Nidai.

"You'll see that I got stronger too!" Owari shouted as she charged again. Nidai didn't dodge this time. He decided that it would be better to show Owari the flaws in her tactics. To that end he caught her and fell back. Using her momentum, he rolled back and sent her flying upside down through some nearby bushes. All of Class 77-B soon heard what sounded like two people colliding, a muffled grunt, and the sound of someone falling and hitting the ground. They all ran to see what had happened and saw Owari sitting on someone's face. Even though that someone's face was hidden under Owari's skirt, they were recognizable thanks to a very familiar green hoodie.

Mioda was the first to find her voice after witnessing this awkward scene and shouted, "Akane-chan, get off of Makoto-chan!"

Owari gave a confused, "Huh?" before looking at what she was sitting on. She got up as soon as she saw that she was in fact sitting on someone.

Naegi felt the weight leave his face but had his eyes shut tight. He closed them because of the initial impact but closed them again when he realized what had landed on him. This is it, this is how I'm going to die, he thought before he started apologizing, "I'm sorry! I didn't mean to see anything! Sorry! Sorry! Sorry! Sorry!"

"Don't tell me this is your first time seeing panties…uh, Nēju-kun?" Owari questioned.

Who is Nēju? Naegi thought before he opened his eyes. "Actually Senpai, it's Naegi. How am I still alive right now?" he asked, his face was red from embarrassment and he couldn't look Owari in the eyes.

"Just let it go kid, that's just how she is," Kuzuryuu said.

"Why are you embarrassed? I mean, this morning you saw Asahina-," Owari started.

"I didn't mean to do that!" Naegi shouted cutting her off.

"Ultimate Lucky Pervert," Saionji said.

"No, I swear both that and this were accidents and bad timing," Naegi said. By this time he had gotten to his feet and was frantically waving his hands in front of him.

"Well, 'bad' is really a matter of opinion. Incidentally, what did happen this morning with the lovely Asahina-san?" Hanamura asked, his nose bleeding as his imagination went into overdrive. He learned early on not to perv at Asahina when Ogami was around, but he figured what Ogami didn't know wouldn't hurt him.

"Nothing! Don't ask!" Naegi shouted, hoping that this would end the conversation. He pinched the bridge of his nose in frustration and embarrassment, an action that Tsumiki took as a sign that he was in pain.

"A-are you o-okay, Naegi-kun?" Tsumiki asked. She didn't wait for an answer as she held his head still so that she could examine him properly.

"I'm alright Tsumiki-senpai, I just really want to drop the subject. Thank you though," Naegi said as he gave Tsumiki a reassuring smile.

"He's right. Anyway, Old Man, we're still supposed to be fighting!" Owari said looking at Nidai.

"I guess if Naegi-kun is alright. If we kept going after hurting him it would have left a bad taste in my mouth," Nidai said.

"Let's get this over with. The sooner you two are done the sooner we can get clean up your mess," Kuzuryuu said as he headed back to where the match between Owari and Nidai began. Others soon followed, all of them silently agreeing with him. Before Owari left however, Naegi stopped her with a question.

"Owari-senpai, do you like donuts?"

Naegi thought that he heard one of the members of Class 77-B ask, "Did he seriously just ask that?" Whoever it was, it was hard to blame them, while Owari Akane loved meat the most, she had never met a type food she didn't like.

"Love'em. Why? Do you have any?" Owari asked as she started drooling. All thoughts of fighting Nidai had been momentarily forgotten.

"Just needed to check. Sorry again," Naegi said as he left to do whatever it was he had been trying to do earlier.

Owari gave a disappointed, "Aaaahhhh," before she left to continue her fight. Her annoyance at not getting food had caused her attacks to be fiercer than before. Something that didn't go unnoticed by her classmates, especially since it made a bigger mess for them to clean up.


Hope's Peak Academy-Girls' Dorm

That Evening

Dinner had been ended a while ago. Poor Naegi hadn't been able to look two of his dormmates in the eyes. Saionji and Enoshima kept poking fun at him, but most of the other girls, even Koizumi to Naegi's surprise, seemed to understand that Naegi was not a pervert and defended him. It felt good to know that the girls were finally coming around, even if the situation was still far from ideal.

Think about that later, he told himself, you still have something to do. So with a box in his hands he looked all through the dorm until he found who he was looking for. "Owari-senpai," he called out, alerting her to his presence.

"Oh you're…? Wait, what's your name again?" Owari asked when she saw him.

"I'm Naegi Makoto, Senpai," Naegi gently reminded her. I know we haven't interacted much, but I have been living here for a while. I even reintroduced myself a few hours ago, Naegi thought.

"Oh, right! That sorta sounds like your name. Sorry, sorry. I keep forgetting somehow. I'll remember it easier if you keep givin' me food or something," Owari told him with a laugh.

I'm the one who cooks the meals in this dorm! Naegi thought. Granted he had volunteered to do it to put everyone at ease, but Naegi couldn't help feeling unappreciated. Pushing that feeling aside, Naegi said, "This works out well then. I bought you these as an apology and a peace offering." Naegi held out the box he was holding which Owari soon grabbed.

Owari opened the box as quickly as she could and saw, much to her delight, "Donuts!"

"Yeah, I was going to get a box for Asahina-san to apologize to her for what happened this morning. After what happened this afternoon, I got decided to get one for you as well. I wasn't going to feel right until I knew that there was no bad blood between us from what happened," Naegi explained.

"Huh? Oh, when you saw my panties? Yeah, we're cool. Later," Owari said as she set the box of donuts down and prepared to eat.

"Wait Senpai, can we talk for a little bit?" Naegi asked. Does she really not care about that? he thought. It didn't make sense.

Owari took a closer look at Naegi before she said, "Look, you seem nice, but I'm not interested in someone who looks like they have low fighting power. Just from lookin' at you, you're probably around a 2. I don't deal with anything lower than trash, y'know?"

Okay, I know I don't fight but ouch. I mean, I guess in a roundabout way, she compared me to Son Gok- Wait, fighting power? Naegi thought. Then he realized something seemed off about what Owari said. "Why are you focusing on fighting power? That doesn't matter in gymnastics, right?" he asked.

In response, Owari asked, "Gymnastics? What are you talkin' about?"

The fact that he could tell that it was a serious question confused Naegi, so he asked, "Aren't you the Ultimate Gymnast? I mean, that's how you introduced yourself when I first got here."

"Oh, that. Setting records and winning competitions is easy money," Owari said happily.

"Easy money?" Naegi asked while thinking, Yeah, I don't think most people would say that setting records and winning competitions is exactly "easy" money, Senpai.

"Yeah, that's right. I've been doing it since this really persistent old man convinced me to give it a try. I've been runnin' and jumpin' all over the place ever since I was a kid," Owari told Naegi.

"That sounds a lot like parkour," Naegi said. He supposed that made sense, given what parkour required and what gymnastic required it didn't seem like much of a stretch.

"Yeah, that's what the old man called it, too! Well, it doesn't matter what it's called. When you got people chasin' ya, you just naturally end up doin' parkour when you're runnin' away from them. You should try chasin' me sometime. I seriously won't get caught!" Owari happily proclaimed.

"People chasing you!" For what? I'm sure there's a story there, but maybe I shouldn't pry too much right now, Naegi thought. Still, he couldn't help worrying. What kind of life had Owari lived? Was there anything he could do to help? She seemed so carefree though. Figuring he could always ask Owari for details some other time, Naegi just said, "Well, I'm glad we had this chance to chat Senpai. I hope can do it again soon."

"Huh? Oh, sure. I'll try to remember your name for next time, Neji-kun," Owari said.

"It's Naegi, Senpai. I'm Naegi Makoto. Until next time then," Naegi said as he left.

Finally getting the chance to eat the donuts Naegi brought, Owari dug right in. These are good. That guy, uh, Naegi-kun, he seemed nice. I wonder if he'll bring more food next time? Owari thought as visions of various foods filled her mind.


Hope's Peak Academy-Girls' Dorm

Sixth Week of Classes-Thursday

Naegi had the strangest feeling that he was being watched. He was standing in the dorm's kitchen making dinner, same as he did every day at this time, and he never had this feeling before. Well, that wasn't entirely true, he usually felt a presence when he was cooking, but it was always brief, and he always just assumed that someone was just checking to see what he was making. He believed that was the case this time too, so he tried his best to ignore it. He grabbed a meat thermometer and checked the deep-fried pork that he was had been preparing. It was around this time that he felt something press up against the back of his shoulders. What is that? Something feels soft, he thought as he turned and saw Owari pressed up against him, looking over his shoulder longingly at the pork cutlets. Realizing what it was that felt soft, Naegi started blushing before he turned back to the food and said as calmly as he could, "Owari-senpai, could you step back a bit. I know it's almost dinner time and you're hungry but it's very hard for me to focus when you're looking over my shoulder."

"Huh? Oh, sure thing, um, Naegi-kun! Hey, I got it right this time!" Owari said happily.

Naegi could tell she felt proud of herself. He just smiled and shook his head before saying, "Yeah, you did Senpai. So, did you come to see what was for dinner?"

"Yeah, I always come to check on the food," Owari said, as if it should be obvious.

So I was right, Naegi thought. "Well, you're more than welcome to stay Senpai, but I need to be able to move around," Naegi told her.

"Is anything ready now?" she asked as she eagerly looked at everything in the kitchen.

"It should all be ready soon, I thought that katsu curry would be good tonight," Naegi said as he got back to work.

Owari looked like she didn't want to wait, mostly because she didn't, but she knew she had to, so she stood off to the side and admired the food.

Figuring that this would be a good opportunity to learn about Owari, Naegi asked, "So Owari-senpai, where did you grow up?"

"A trashy place where crappy people are all swept together. Where I'm from it's not that strange to find a dead body at the dump in the morning," Owari said, her tone was that of a person talking about the weather.

"Oh, I'm sorry," Naegi said, not that there was much one could say to that.

"Huh, why?" Owari asked, confused.

"It's just, I'm sure it made you tough, but still that must have been really hard," Naegi explained. I can't tell if she really doesn't see anything wrong with it or if she's just desensitized to it, he thought.

"Yeah, we never had any money, so I did whatever I could to earn cash. I even sold my used panties to this noisy pig who kept oinkin', 'Panties! Panties!' By the time I was able to legally work part-time, I didn't hafta run away anymore," Owari told him.

Owari may not have found anything odd about that, but Naegi was mortified. That's the worst thing I've ever heard in my life. On the one hand, I'm glad she got money, but buying an underage girl's panties is just wrong, Naegi thought. Deciding to change the subject, Naegi asked, "What kind of part-time jobs did you do?"

"Well, I did a lotta things. For some reason, my mom's boyfriends always pushed me into doing weird jobs," Owari began.

I get the feeling that I'm not going to like this, Naegi thought.

Owari continued, "At first, one of them told me all I needed to do was serve food. But I never expected he'd tell me to do it like 'that'."

Okay, nothing wrong with being a waitress, but...what…did…she…? They didn't… They shouldn't have… They told her to…, Naegi was having trouble forming coherent thoughts as realization dawned on him.

Owari seemed to notice that that something was troubling Naegi and asked, "Hm? What happened?"

Maybe I have it wrong, Naegi thought. He was afraid of the answer, but he asked anyway, "Owari-senpai, did they ask you to…?" He couldn't bring himself to finish.

When it seemed like Naegi wasn't going to finish his question, Owari said, "Well, anyway, I didn't know what to do. I mean, he told me to do it without my panties, y'know? That doesn't make sense, right? There's no way I could do somethin' like that."

"Absolutely!" Naegi said as he nodded. He was relieved that it seemed that Owari had not been exploited.

Naegi's relief was short-lived as Owari said, "I know right! That would definitely make your stomach cold!"

"That's not the point! That's sounds like a JK business. That means it was child grooming! No one touched you did they!?" Naegi shouted.

To Owari, it seemed like Naegi had lost it. "What? Man, you're annoying. Is the food ready yet?" Owari asked. Naegi knew she wasn't kidding, he could hear the irritation in her voice, but he wasn't ready to let this go just yet.

"Senpai, after that happened, did you tell the police?" he asked.

"I didn't need to. I'm not weak," Owari said.

"I never said you were, Senpai," Naegi said, defending himself.

"I don't need someone to protect me and I don't need people to worry about me!" Owari shouted. That's right, no one would have helped anyway. And if no one would help then, they won't help now. I'm the only one I can depend on, Owari thought as she started to leave.

"Senpai, wait. I-I'm sorry I reacted like that, but believe me I have a reason," Naegi said. He wanted everyone to get along. He didn't want to give Owari a reason to dislike him, so there was something he had to tell her.

"What is it?" Owari asked, still clearly annoyed.

"Well, I've never really told anyone this story before. It happened years ago, my sister Komaru was in the third grade. We aren't really sure what happened, but we saw one of her teachers from cram school, I can't recall his name, in our house in the middle of the night. It was a good thing Tou-san caught him. Even though he was caught coming out of Komaru's room, the teacher swore to us he didn't do anything to Komaru. I'd never seen my parents so angry at anyone before. If Kaa-san hadn't called the police, I'm sure Tou-san would have killed that man. Anyway, the teacher was arrested, the cram school told the students he quit, and to this day Komaru believes that the teachers feelings became a living spirit that visited her that night. It wasn't until I was older that I realized the danger Komaru could have been in, I mean usually when some pervert like that breaks into a house, he doesn't usually stop at watching little girls sleep. So I guess in a way we got lucky, but it left a lasting impression on me. I feel very strongly about people taking advantage of young girls because someone I love could have very easily become a victim. I don't want my friends to be in that position either, no one should ever be put in that position," Naegi told Owari.

Owari's eyes softened at Naegi's story. "Well, I guess I get it, but I'm fine. I'm strong after all," she said, no longer annoyed.

"I know you are Senpai, I didn't get angry because I think you're weak, I did it because I care about you. I know we don't know each other that well, but I really do want us to be friends," Naegi said.

"We can be friends, but I don't need someone to worry about me," Owari said. It did feel kind of nice though…NO! I'm fine on my own, she thought.

"I can't promise I won't worry Senpai." Naegi said with a smile, the previous conversation almost forgotten. Naegi then remembered that he still needed to get dinner ready and asked Owari, "Senpai, dinner is just about ready, can you go get the others?"

"Sure can! Hey everybody, come and eat!" Owari shouted as she left the kitchen. That warm feeling of knowing someone cared confused her, and when she got confused, she got hungry, and Owari Akane was not about to let anyone hold up her next meal.


Hope's Peak Academy-Girls' Dorm

Seventh Week of Classes-Sunday

It was that time of the week again. Every Sunday morning after breakfast, Owari would raid the dorm's fridge for leftovers to take home. Feeding her seven younger siblings was a difficult task for a myriad of reasons. Half of them were too young to cook for the rest and the ones who were old enough never made anything edible, not that she was much better. Since Naegi had arrived at Hope's Peak Academy there were now enough leftovers to supplement their food situation each week. Most people thought of Owari Akane as a ravenous eater that wouldn't leave a scrap of food behind, and that was true. What most didn't know was that she was protective of what she would refer to as "small hungry things." She never touched food once it was on another person's plate during meals. Eating was the most important thing after all, so stealing food that someone was going to eat was wrong. It was a rather simplistic way of thinking, but that's just how Owari saw it. She also believed that once food qualified as "leftover" it was fair game, and that's why she was in the kitchen now.

Oh, this was good, they'll love this. Some of that too. Can't forget about dinner from last night, Owari thought as she looked at all of her choices. She was interrupted when a voice called out to her.

"Owari-senpai?"

Owari whipped her head around and saw Naegi standing there looking at her. "Oh, hey Naegi-kun, how's it going?" she greeted.

"Alright. I just came to get something to drink," Naegi answered. Looking at the food Owari had taken from the fridge, he asked, "That's a little much for a snack isn't it Senpai?"

"Of course not. This is normal back home. You can't survive if ya don't eat when you can," Owari answered.

Since Owari had mentioned her home, Naegi decided now was a good time to ask, "Owari-senpai, I've been wondering about this for a while, what's your home like?"

Owari, who saw no harm in answering, said, "Hm? It's not that big of a deal. The only major difference is that I have about seven little brothers and sisters, and my parents don't work."

While Naegi was curious about what Owari had said about her parents, there was something else he was curious about. "I didn't know you were and older sister, Senpai. Seven huh? That's a lot," he said.

Owari just shrugged before explaining, "Y'know how every time you get a new mom or dad, you get new siblings too? Well...that's why I don't really know exactly how many siblings I have."

No Senpai, I don't know, Naegi thought sadly. Naegi was grateful for this glimpse into Owari's personality, between this and their previous conversation, he was beginning to realize just how difficult Owari's life had been. Naegi pushed that feeling aside and asked, "Then...you took on part-time jobs to help support your family?" Well, if it's true her parents don't work, then she'd be the sole provider, but I probably should tread carefully with that, Naegi thought.

"Yep. I gotta feed the little ones, y'know. When I had my waitressing gig, I'd sometimes steal...I mean, borrow leftovers to bring home. I got paid an hourly wage and I also got tips too, which was pretty sweet," Owari said proudly. Remembering other details, she added, "Oh, and I got to keep my panties on, too. I didn't let customers motorboat me either."

"I certainly hope not. You really shouldn't talk about keeping your panties on so casually," Naegi did not raise his voice, but it was clear that he was angry.

Why is he so mad? Oh, right! That thing with his sister's perverted teacher, Owari thought. "Oh...I-I see... U-Um...s-sorry..." Owari said.

"You aren't the one who should apologize, Senpai. Your mother's boyfriends; that guy you sold your panties to; anyone who would ask you to wait tables without panties or to motorboat them, they owe you an apology. And I'm sorry I keep getting angry. I'm not mad at you, I'm mad at them, even though it doesn't do any good now," Naegi explained. Just because this all happened in the past doesn't make it any less infuriating though, Naegi thought.

"Y'know, I've been scolded like this before. Back when I was waitin' tables, there was this weird old dude who used to come all the time. He was a gymnastics coach. I wasn't really into sports, and especially not gymnastics, but no matter how much I punched and kicked him, he was pretty persistent. In fact, he looked like he was enjoyin' it. He kept tellin' me I had an amazing body. He was seriously a gross old dude, but thanks to him, I was able to move out with my siblings and find a new home for us," Owari said.

I don't think it's appropriate for a grown man to tell an underage girl she has an amazing body, but as long as that's all he did…, Naegi thought. Naegi then said, "Yeah, he sounds like a dirty old man, but I'm glad that things worked out for you. As long as he kept his hands to himself."

"Huh? Oh, yeah he did," Owari said.

Naegi gave a sigh of relief before saying, "Good." Looking over at the food Owari had gotten out, Naegi asked, "Is this food for your brothers and sisters?"

"Yeah, I've been taking them whatever is left over every week. They really like your food," Owari said.

Naegi couldn't help feeling a bit proud when he heard that, even if he never really made anything too fancy. Looking at the leftovers again, Naegi couldn't help but ask, "Senpai, this food may last a day or two, but what about the rest of the week?"

"We usually fall back on cup ramen, food that can be microwaved, food that doesn't need to be cooked, or order takeout," Owari answered with a shrug.

Owari hadn't given any specifics, but an image of seven mini-Owari's eating Doritos for dinner floated through Naegi's mind when she said, "food that doesn't need to be cooked." It was partly because of that, and partly because Naegi was a helpful person in general, that Naegi said, "Owari-senpai, if you want, I can come with you and maybe see if I can prepare your siblings' meals for the week. I've got nothing planned for today and would be happy to do it. Maybe I can even teach some of the older kids a simple recipe or two."

Most people probably would have taken Naegi up on the offer right away, and Owari was tempted. However, most people didn't have Owari's childhood experiences and the strange sort of independent streak that they gave her. As a child Owari was regularly starving and as a result she learned to constantly search for food, often from trash she had to fight for with other people, and from anywhere else such as nuts and bird eggs from trees and small animals she managed to catch. She used to get beaten up at times and was often chased by men and one time a stray dog, though this stopped after she became stronger than her pursuers. Since her own home was so poor, she had a habit of resting in libraries during winters and summers, because there was proper air conditioning, free water, and bathrooms unlike in her home. Through all this, no one helped her, and she learned to rely on herself. Doing something out of the goodness of one's heart was not something that happened in her world.

On the other hand, Owari had a deep love for her little brothers and sisters. She would always go to great lengths to make them happy, and it was clear from the first weekend of the school year that food cooked by Naegi Makoto made them happy. To be fair they had enjoyed the food from the restaurants she used to work at and Hanamura's food when she had been able to bring it home. It broke her heart to see how disappointed they were when she stopped bringing home leftovers, but she no longer worked as a waitress and thanks to Saionji, most of Class 77-B wasn't allowed in the school kitchen anymore. Even now, Hanamura was carefully supervised when he was in the school kitchen and his ingredients were subject to random checks. Naegi's leftovers had brought smiles back to their faces, something Owari cherished. If Naegi was offering to cook for them, it would probably make them very happy, and she wouldn't have to worry if they were able to eat or not. So Owari decided, The lil' ones would probably enjoy it, so fine I guess. If it makes them happy then I'll just give him whatever he wants later. With her decision made, Owari turned to Naegi and said, "Alright, let me finish up here and then we'll go."

"Okay, let me just grab my wallet and phone and then I'll help you carry all of this. Maybe there are some coolers or something we can put the leftovers in. All of it should keep, but when it comes to food safety, better safe than sorry," Naegi said as he left the kitchen. Going by what Owari-senpai said, we might need to do some grocery shopping, Naegi thought, grateful that his parents sent him money.


Outskirts of Hikarimachi

Higashi Ward, Hiroshima, Hiroshima Prefecture-Later That Morning

It didn't take long to reach the area of Owari's neighborhood by train, but the trip to her actual home felt long to Naegi. The two of them were carrying a cooler of leftovers each, but that wasn't what made the trip feel long. Naegi had suspected it but now he knew for sure, Owari's siblings didn't exactly live in the nicest part of town. It wasn't a slum but there was a red-light district nearby, making it a tough place. Once people spotted Naegi, their eyes were glued to him. Is it really that obvious that I'm not from around here? Naegi asked himself. He supposed that if he lived around here, then he would be wary of outsides too, but he didn't think that he looked like he'd cause trouble. "I guess they don't like strangers around here," Naegi mumbled. He didn't mean for anyone to hear that, but Owari did.

"You'll be fine if you're with me, they know what I'll do to them if they try anything," Owari said as they approached an apartment building.

The building looked like it had seen better days but didn't look like it was in danger of being condemned. Paint was peeling off; light bulbs needed replaced, and the windows were scratched to hell and back, but there was nothing that seemed to be cause for immediate concern. The only real problem seemed to be the location, it was right on the border of the red-light district.

Owari led the way inside and up a few flights of stairs before stopping at a door. She placed her cooler of to the side before fishing a key out of her pocket. After she had unlocked and opened the door she said, "Hey you little brats, I'm back."

Naegi heard seven voices shout, "Akane-nee!" followed by the sound of running. It turned out Naegi's mental image from earlier in the day had been pretty accurate, Owari's brothers and sisters did in fact look like smaller versions of her. There were differences in eye color and miniscule differences in facial features, but no one could deny the family resemblance. Same messy hair, same tanned skin, they were definitely related to Owari Akane.

The excitement the kids had at seeing their sister was tempered by their wariness of Naegi. The oldest, a boy of about thirteen who looked like a male version of Owari, but with brown eyes asked, "Akane-nee, who is that?"

"Pleased to meet all of you. I'm Naegi Makoto, and I go to Hope's Peak Academy with Owari-senpai," Naegi said. He would have liked to wave of offer a handshake, but the cooler he was holding prevented that.

"He lives at the dorm with me and the girls, something about his luck I think. He's the one in charge of the food," Owari explained.

"I cook, keep house, and occasionally act as a handy man, but I'm supposed to be the Ultimate Lucky Student of my year," Naegi added.

The youngest child, a five-year-old boy that also had brown eyes asked, "Are you Akane-nee's boyfriend?"

"No, he's just here because he offered to cook for you," Owari said with laugh.

The children's eyes lit up when she said that. A few even excitedly asked, "Really?"

"Yeah, Owari-senpai told me that you liked what I made at the dorm, so I thought that you'd like it even better fresh. I'd also like to prepare meals for you kids for the week and maybe teach some of you to cook simple things on your own," Naegi explained, suddenly feeling pressure from their excitement.

Any uneasiness the children may have felt because of Naegi must have disappeared after he had told them that because the oldest boy came forward and said, "I'm Owari Sadaharu, I'm thirteen and I'm in charge when Akane-nee isn't around. Nice to meet you Makoto-nii."

"Nice to meet you too, Owari-kun. I just realized, this might get a little confusing," Naegi said as he realized that he couldn't refer to all of the kids by their surname. Makoto-nii huh? They warmed up to me pretty quickly, Naegi thought, not that he minded.

"You can call me Sadaharu-kun, Makoto-nii," Sadaharu said. He motioned towards his other siblings and said, "From oldest to youngest there is Sayuri,"

"Hello," a girl of eleven with the same eye color as Owari greeted.

"Natsuko,"

"Hi," a girl no older than ten said shyly. She looked like her eldest sister too, but her personality was certainly different.

"Tatsunori,"

"Nice to meet you," a boy with blue eyes said. He looked to only be nine.

"Mari,"

"Can we call you Mako-nii?" a seven-year-old girl asked. The biggest difference between her and her eldest sister was that her eyes were black.

"If that's what you want, Mari-chan," Naegi told her. He got a sweet smile in return.

"Ataru,"

"Mako-nii is gonna cook for us, that's so cool!" a boy of about six exclaimed. His eyes were hazel.

"And the youngest is Suguru," Sadaharu finished.

"What are you gonna make for us, Mako-nii?" Suguru asked.

"Well, I'll need to see what I've got to work with. How about all of you help your Nee-chan unpack what's in these coolers, and I'll let you know," Naegi said.

"Okay," Suguru said.

"Follow me to the kitchen," Owari said as she started walking with a cooler in her arms. Naegi followed her with the other cooler and the children followed after them both.

The kitchen was smaller than the one back at the dorm, but it had everything Naegi needed. Now he just needed to see what was on hand. As the Owaris unpacked the leftovers, Naegi looked over at the food that was already in the apartment. Once he was done he said, "The food situation isn't bad, but it still looks like we need to make a trip to the store before I can do everything I promised."

"You heard him. Let's finish up. The sooner we're done, the sooner we can eat," Owari said as she and her siblings picked up the pace.


A few minutes later, after Owari, Naegi, and the children had made their way to the nearest supermarket, Naegi pulled out a few pieces of paper and said, "Owari-senpai, Sadaharu-kun, Sayuri-chan, let's split up and get everything on one of these lists. There's one for staple foods, fruits and vegetables, meat, and fish."

"Mako-nii, what about drinks and snacks?" Mari asked.

"I put drinks on the list with the staple foods, Mari-chan. Before we get snacks though, I think we should see how much everything will cost," Naegi explained.

"Okay," she said.

"I want to go with Mako-nii!" Ataru shouted.

"Calm down Ataru," Sadaharu reprimanded.

"It's okay. Ataru-chan, you're more than welcome to come with me," Naegi said.

"Can I come too?" Mari asked.

"You most certainly can, Mari-chan," Naegi answered. Holding out the lists he let the other groups choose first. Sadaharu would get fish; Sayuri and Tatsunori were in charge of fruits and vegetables; Owari, Suguru, and Natsuko would get meat; and Naegi would get staple foods.

"Okay, let's join up with each other as we finish," Naegi said as he, Ataru and Mari left to shop for what was on their list.

"Well, you kids heard him. Get to it. And don't talk to anyone you don't know who isn't wearing a nametag," Owari said.

"Okay Akane-nee," Sadaharu, Sayuri, and Tatsunori answered before they left to shop.

A few minutes later and Owari, Natsuko, and Suguru had finished getting the meat Naegi had put on their shopping list. "Okay, let's go find the others," Owari said, before she and the other two set out to do just that.

Suguru, who had been quiet for a while, asked, "Akane-nee?"

"What is it Suguru?" Owari asked.

"Is this what it's like to have a kaa-san and an otou-san?" Suguru asked.

All Owari could say in response to that was, "Huh?"

"If Akane-nee is our onee-chan and takes care of us like an okaa-san, does that make Mako-nii like an otou-san?" Natsuko asked. She and Suguru had been thinking the same thing apparently.

"I mean, I guess, but why bring this up? I thought I was doing a good job of taking care of all of you myself," Owari said, a little defensively.

"You do Akane-nee," Suguru said.

"We just think it would be nice if someone took care of you too," Natsuko said.

Owari probably would have blown up at anyone else for suggesting such a thing, but her siblings brought out her calmer, softer side. "I really don't need someone to do that, I'm strong enough on my own y'know," she said. That does sound pretty ni-no! No one took care of me before, I had to do it all by myself. I'm fine, I can take care of my family on my own. If Naegi being around makes the kids happy, then fine, he can come around, but I don't really need his help and I don't need someone to take care of me. I'm strong, Owari thought stubbornly.

"Senpai!"

"Natsuko-nee!"

"Suguru!"

Three different voices called out and Owari saw Naegi and the rest of her family coming towards her. Apparently, they had all finished up before her.

"Hey," Owari greeted back. What her brother and sister had said had shaken her up a bit, but she pushed through it.

"Alright, now we can get snacks!" Ataru happily exclaimed.

"Just let me check a few things Ataru-chan," Naegi said. He took out his phone which had the calculator app open and added the cost of the meats to the total. "And the 8% sales tax and we've got…okay, let me check my wallet," Naegi said as he checked how much money he had on him. "I think we have enough to get each of you something you want," he told the kids.

Three very young voices exclaimed:

"Cookies!"

"Candy!"

"Ice cream!"

"We'll get them, but everyone only gets one thing, otherwise we won't have enough," Naegi explained.

"Is your family rich or something?" Owari asked, wondering how Naegi could afford the four carts of groceries.

"Huh? Oh, no it's just that since I'm not home, my parents have been sending me generous amounts of money. I had some savings before coming to Hope's Peak though, and the only thing I've bought were those flowers for Mioda-senpai's show. I just thought that I should pay this time because I wanted to get extra for when I show some of the kids how to cook," Naegi explained.

"As long as you aren't treating us like some charity case," Owari said. She was grateful, how could she not be, someone was buying her and her siblings food, but she didn't want any pity.

"I'm sorry if I gave you that impression, Senpai. It's just that when I heard about your siblings I just couldn't help myself. I have a soft spot for kids and I wanted to be sure they were eating right. Scurvy, beriberi, rickets, and the like are still real," Naegi said.

"What, what, and what?" Owari asked.

"Well, Tsumiki-senpai and possibly Hanamura-senpai, could tell you more, but the short answer is those are illnesses caused by vitamin deficiency, often times resulting from poor eating habits. Scurvy is a disease resulting from a lack of vitamin C. Beriberi, is the severe and chronic form of thiamine deficiency, a medical condition of low levels of vitamin B1. Rickets is a condition that is most commonly caused by a vitamin D deficiency. We don't see much of them anymore, at least not in Japan, and your siblings probably aren't in danger of getting any of those, but it's still probably not the best idea to live off of cup ramen, frozen dinners, and food that doesn't need cooked," Naegi explained.

"I didn't know that, I thought it was enough to just have food," Owari said sadly. She felt bad that the health of her siblings could have been in danger from not eating right.

Naegi put his hand on Owari's shoulder and said, "Senpai, you're a sister who has been promoted to parent. You've managed to raise seven wonderful children by yourself. Everyone makes mistakes, and like I said, we don't think about these things because they are so rare in Japan. It doesn't make you any less amazing, so don't go thinking that it does."

Owari didn't know if it was those words or Naegi's hand but she couldn't help thinking, He's so warm. Maybe it's okay to depend on…NO! Despite her internal reprimand of herself, she still said, "Thanks Naegi-kun. You're a really nice guy."

"I only spoke the truth Senpai," Naegi told her.

The rest of Owari's family saw this and couldn't help but feel happy that someone like Naegi Makoto had come into their lives.


After checking out and heading back to Owari's home, everyone set about putting food away. Once this was done, Naegi pulled Sadaharu, Sayuri, Natsuko, and Tatsunori aside for a quick lesson.

"Okay we have basmati rice, water, beef fillets, red and green onions, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, salt, and dashi stock. Anyone want to guess what we're making?" he asked.

"Gyudon?" Natsuko asked.

"That's right Natsuko-chan. Now, the recipe usually calls for sake and mirin for the sauce, but it can be just as easily made without it. Which is good because none of us can legally buy sake or mirin," Naegi said.

"Why gyudon though?" Sadaharu asked.

"Well, it might not be the easiest place to start, but it isn't the hardest. Plus, even though I prefer curry, gyudon has a lot of sentimental value to me. My Otou-san used to make it whenever Okaa-san was sick, and we had to fend for ourselves. He'd always sing this short little song from this anime he watched as a little kid," Naegi said fondly.

"What song?" Tatsunori asked.

"Let's see if I remember, I think it went:

"All I need is gyudon for the next 300 years…Fast, delicious, and cheap too!" Naegi sang, much to the delight of the kids in the kitchen.

"That's funny," Sayuri said through her laughter.

"Yeah, he always did it for Komaru and me, it always put a smile on our faces," Naegi said as he recalled all of his fond memories with his family. He stopped when he considered the Owari family's situation, these kids had never had real parents, Owari had to pick up the slack. Naegi always knew he loved his family, but he never knew how much he could appreciate them until now. Getting back to the task at hand Naegi said, "Okay Sadaharu-kun, you make gyudon; Sayuri-chan will be in charge of miso soup; Natsuko and Tatsunori, you two need to make enough cabbage salad for everyone. Now I'm going to explain everything step-by-step and then I'm going to prepare meals for you for the rest of the week and leave cooking instructions on them. If you get stuck or seem to be having trouble don't be afraid to ask for help. Is everyone ready?"

"Hai, Mako-nii!" three loud voices exclaimed while the shy Natsuko just nodded.

While Naegi was busy in the kitchen with some of her older younger siblings, Owari was keeping the other three company. All of them had warmed up to Naegi rather quickly, but Mari, Ataru, and Suguru seemed to really enjoy having Naegi around. Owari wouldn't have minded that, but for the fact that her siblings seemed to be under the wrong impression about her relationship with Naegi.

"Akane-nee, are you gonna marry Mako-nii someday?" Mari asked.

"No Mari, I'm not. What is it with you kids today? He's not my boyfriend, he just lives with me and the girls at our dorm," Owari explained. It seemed to be futile to tell them otherwise though, the younger children really seemed to want their sister to be together with Naegi.

"Don't let the other girls beat you Akane-nee!" Ataru exclaimed. If he hadn't been six-years-old, one would have reason to believe he was trying to appeal to his sister's competitive nature.

"If we were competing I wouldn't. Do you kids really like him that much?" Owari asked, receiving three nods in return.

"He's really nice," Suguru said.

"He's knows how to cook," Ataru added.

"He knows how great you are, Akane-nee," Mari finished.

A blush made its way to Owari's cheeks as she remembered what Naegi had said at the store. Owari would be the first to admit that she didn't like to think very hard, many people thought that she was dumb, but she knew that there was something different about Naegi. Sadly, her stubbornness, born from her rough life, wouldn't let her accept that completely.

"Food's ready!" Sadaharu's voice called out.

As Owari and the kids made their way into the kitchen to get their lunch they noticed just how good everything smelled.

"Did you kids make all of this?" Owari asked seeing the food spread out.

"Mako-nii helped, but we managed to do most of it," Sayuri said with pride as she placed her hands on her hips.

"They picked everything up rather quickly, I was impressed. I was able to finish up the prep work for their meals this week earlier than expected because of it," Naegi said. One could tell by his voice that he was proud of the kids too.

As soon as everyone was ready there was a chorus of "Itadakimasu!" before everyone dug in. to everyone's surprise, even the kids who had cooked the food, everything was delicious. There may have been room for improvement, the sauce was a little unevenly mixed in, but now there seemed to be one less thing for Owari to worry about when she was at Hope's Peak.

"You four did an excellent job for your first time, you should all be proud," Naegi said after lunch.

"I don't know if we could have done it without you, Mako-nii," Tatsunori said.

"Everyone needs at least a little help their first time, but I think you kids are off to a good start," Naegi said. Looking at the time, Naegi then asked, "Owari-senpai, do you think we should be getting back soon?"

"Probably, let's gather up the coolers and the containers I brought last week," Owari said as she got up from the table.

"Will you come back, Mako-nii?" Suguru asked.

"I'll try Suguru-chan, but I might not always be able to," Naegi said.

Naegi was treated to a chorus of disappointed "Aww's" in response.

"I promise to send you kids meals for the week every week that I can't make it though," Naegi said.

That seemed to pacify the younger Owaris. With that out of the way Owari and Naegi gathered up everything that needed to return to Hope's Peak and after saying their good-byes, went on their way.

"You have a wonderful family, Senpai. You should be proud," Naegi said as the two made their wat to the train station.

Owari blushed at that and gave a shaky, "Y-yeah," in response. Thinking that now was a good a time as any to bring it up, Owari asked, "So what do you want?"

"I don't understand," Naegi said.

"Do you want my panties? You can feel me up if you want. You made my brothers and sisters happy, so you can name it," Owari said.

Naegi didn't know what he found more disturbing: Owari's offers or the fact that she didn't seem bothered by them. Rather than resigned she seemed almost, not happy, but it sounded like a proud parent asking a small child what toy they wanted as a reward for good behavior.

"You don't owe me anything Senpai, I'm the one who offered," Naegi said, hoping that would be the end of it. Naegi couldn't deny that the temptation was there, whatever else he might be, Naegi was also a teenage boy and Owari was a very attractive teenage girl, but Naegi also knew the difference between right and wrong.

"C'mon, I'll even let you motorboat me if you want," Owari said. Even after hearing Naegi's thoughts on the subject, Owari thought that Naegi deserved some kind of reward.

"Senpai, you shouldn't make those offers so casually. You should only do things of this nature with the person you love," Naegi tried to explain.

It seemed to have at least some effect as Owari relented and asked, "Well what do you want?"

"I don't really want anything, Senpai. I just wanted to do something nice for my friend and her family," Naegi answered.

"C'mon, you must want something," Owari pressed.

"Could you grab me a Coke from the fridge when we get back then? I'll worry about putting everything away," Naegi said. He really had no desire for any sort of payment for doing what he thought was right. Hopefully this would be enough to convince her that they were even. I guess Owari-senpai and I live in two very different worlds, Naegi thought.

"Fine," Owari relented. Someone's easy to please, she thought before the two of them purchased the tickets that would get them back to Hope's Peak.


Hope's Peak Academy-Girls' Dorm

Eighth Week of Classes-Wednesday

It was after midnight but sleep eluded Naegi Makoto. A sniper had made an attempt on Sonia's life only hours ago and they were still at large. Naegi didn't think Sonia was in any danger at the moment, but he was still rather shaken up by the event. Currently he was making his way to the kitchen for something that might help him sleep.

Maybe warm milk will work, he thought as he made his way from his room to the kitchen. Seeing movement out of the corner of his eye he turned and saw trees swaying in the wind rather violently. Never been more grateful for soundproofing in my life, I can't imagine how loud the wind is if it's shaking the trees that much, Naegi thought. As he approached the kitchen, he sound found that he wasn't alone.

"Owari-senpai?" Naegi asked sleepily. It was in fact Owari Akane in the kitchen.

"Oh hey Naegi-kun, just came for a midnight snack," Owari said, as she dug through the fridge.

"Couldn't you sleep either Senpai?" Naegi asked.

"Nah, guess I was still too hungry to sleep through the night," Owari answered. When it seemed like she found what she was looking for she said, "Haha, score. When things don't make sense, the only thing I can do is stuff my face. As long as I can eat and move my body, that's when I feel like I'm alive. That's all I need."

"When things don't make sense?" Is she talking about what happened with Sonia-senpai? At the very least it sounds like she might have something on her mind, Naegi thought.

"Are you worried about Sonia-senpai?" Naegi asked.

That caught Owari off guard as she stammered, "Huh? Wh-What are you talkin' about? I don't really worry about things. There's no way I'd ever worry about anything!"

"Really? Sonia-senpai is your classmate, no one would blame you for worrying about her. That's part of the reason I'm down here, I was too worried to sleep," Naegi said.

"I'm not worried, alright!? I'm not weak!" Owari yelled. Naegi was right but she'd sooner stop eating meat than admit it. Death never bothered her before, back when she was much younger, she lived in a very poor area where people were dying frequently. In the mornings, it wasn't that rare to find dead bodies. It was because of this, she never bothered to make close friends, or even learn any names. She couldn't do that anymore though, she had become quite attached to her classmates and now someone out there was after one of their lives. Stop worrying dammit! Worrying is for the weak! Owari mentally reprimanded herself.

Naegi had no way of knowing about that part of Owari's childhood so all he could say was, "I'm not calling you weak Senpai."

"Good, because I'm not," Owari said as she went back to looking through the fridge for a snack. It seemed like she finally found what she wanted as she pulled something out to heat up. As she headed for the microwave and Naegi went about getting his warm milk, Owari saw something tapping the window. It looked to be a pale, white hand. Owari paled herself before she let out a scream.

"Kyaaaaaaaaaaaaah!"

Naegi, who had just gotten a glass, turned suddenly and asked, "Senpai what's wrong!?" All he saw was Owari crouched on the ground, shaking like a leaf and pointing a trembling finger at the window.

"Gh... Gh-Gh...Ghost," Owari stammered.

"Ghost?" Naegi asked. He looked to where Owari was pointing and said, "That's not a ghost, some paper just got caught in that tree branch. It happens a lot when it gets windy."

Owari wasn't convinced. "Liar," she said.

"Really Senpai, I'm not lying. I know it kind of looks like a hand but if you look closely you can almost make out the writing on the paper," Naegi said.

Owari did just that and her face turned red in embarrassment, she couldn't believe that Naegi had seen her like this.

When she didn't say anything, Naegi asked, "Are you okay, Senpai?"

"Forget about what you saw just now!" Owari ordered.

"Huh?" Naegi asked

"I-If you tell anyone, I'll kill you! If I even catch you thinking about it, I'll kill you! I'll...get you for this!" Owari stammered out, embarrassment and angry clear in her voice. Naegi wasn't sure if she was mad at him or herself, but she was apparently worked up enough to forget her food.

Naegi was frozen in place, he never expected to see that side of Owari. He never expected Owari to forget about food either. He had wanted to call after her but figured it would be best to give her space. Little did either of them know that a third person was present for all of this.

Enoshima Junko had thought that maybe if she ate something it would help her Despair Withdrawal. Maybe she would put on a little weight and make her agent panic. It wouldn't have been much, but she'd take it. Now after hearing that exchange, she wondered what she could use Owari's fear for. She'd need time for this, her track record with hastily made plans was very poor when Naegi was involved. Fear of ghosts wasn't much to work with though. Oh well, Enoshima Junko was nothing if not creative.


Hope's Peak Academy-Girls' Dorm

Ninth Week of Classes-Sunday

With breakfast and the dishes done, Naegi waited in the kitchen for Owari to come and gather leftovers. He wanted to see if would allow him to join her when she visited her family. The children may have liked him, but he couldn't just invite himself after all. He didn't have to wait long as Owari came in after only a few minutes.

"Owari-senpai, would you mind if I joined you when you visit your family?" Naegi asked.

"Huh? Sure, it's fine" Owari said, not making eye contact.

Naegi had noticed that Owari had been trying to avoid him all week and he had a feeling he knew why. "Owari-senpai, are you alright?" he asked.

"You made sure you forgot what you saw...right?" Owari asked back finally making eye contact.

I knew it, Naegi thought. He had a feeling that was the reason being Owari's behavior, and now he knew for sure. As much as Naegi wanted to do as his friend had asked, what he saw was not something one would easily forget. There was also one more reason Naegi could not forget what he saw, "I'm afraid I haven't Senpai," Naegi said honestly, leaving out that even if he had, Owari had just reminded him.

"I'll kill you," Owari growled out.

I should have known that answer would have made her mad, but I don't think it's just embarrassment behind that anger, Naegi thought. "Owari-senpai, everyone has something that they're afraid of, it's really not a big deal. I happen to be afraid of…" Naegi stared before Owari cut him off.

"Stop it! Just...stop it. Don't treat me like I'm weak!" Owari shouted.

"Senpai," Naegi said, concern clear in his voice.

"I-I'm not weak... Being weak is bad. If you get kicked around and beat up, or cry and scream that there's no food or medicine, no one'll help you. And the next time I say someone's name...I might be talkin' about a dead body... That's...the kinda place I grew up in. Weak people die and there's nothin' you can do about it! No matter what happens, you can't complain!" Owari didn't even seem to be talking to him anymore. To Naegi, it looked like she was forcing herself to remember the lessons her life had taught her.

Hearing all of that broke Naegi's heart, he never realized just how badly Owari's past had affected her. I have to say something, anything that can make her feel better. Something to let her know that things are different now, he thought. "Senpai," Naegi began, "you are not weak. You're one of the strongest people I know. But everyone has moments of weakness. Humans feel overwhelmed sometimes or cry. I know I do, but I keep pushing forward. Real strength isn't about rejecting your weaknesses, it's about overcoming them."

That seemed to calm Owari down a little bit, as she said, "It's weird... When I talk to you... I feel like...I'm getting really weak or something." It didn't take long for some of the anger to come back though, since she then said, "I was much stronger when I was alone! Stop sayin' things that don't make sense!"

"Senpai," Naegi said, momentarily discouraged. Naegi perked himself up though and then tried again. "Senpai, you don't always have to go it alone. I know that attitude sounds like it makes you brave and strong, but taken another way, it also sounds like you can't bring yourself to completely trust others. Think about it, you have lots of people who will help you now, you just have to let them in."

Naegi's words had an impact on Owari, she had calmed down at least. Still Naegi could see that she wasn't ready to accept that way of thinking, and after the life she had lived, he couldn't blame her. So he thought that maybe the best course of action was to apologize.

"Senpai, I-," Naegi started.

"You sound a lot like the Old Man," Owari said. Naegi wasn't sure if this was a good sign or not, but if Nidai had said something similar to Owari than Naegi figured he would be okay, those two were still friends after all.

"Senpai, do you not want me to go with you?" Naegi asked.

"No, you probably should. You can't make it next week, right? You and Sonia have to go to that thing. The lil' ones will never let me hear the end of it if you don't come for two weeks in a row," Owari said.

"Right, the Novoselic Embassy," Naegi said. The conversation he had been having with Owari caused him to momentarily forget he would be preoccupied next week. He was still worried that the atmosphere would be too tense if he joined Owari, but Naegi thought he might have a way to fix that.

"Senpai, I'm not really all that worried about people knowing that I'm afraid of things, but there is something I don't want people to know. That should make us even, right?" Naegi asked.

"What is it?" Owari asked, curious.

Naegi motioned for her to come closer and then whispered something in her ear. Whatever it was, it caused Owari to laugh the hardest she'd ever laughed in her life.

"You're kidding. Until the fifth grade?" Owari asked through her laughter. She wanted to be absolutely sure she heard him right.

"Yes I did, and I'll thank you to not tell anyone," Naegi said, his face red with embarrassment.

Owari kept laughing for a little while longer before she said, "Alright it's a deal, I won't tell your secret if you won't tell mine."

That had been the response Naegi had been hoping for. "Sounds like a plan Senpai," he said. Well, I managed to lighten the mood. I'm glad the children won't see us behave awkwardly around each other. I'd have preferred a different way, but I know I can trust Owari-senpai. I hope one day she realizes that she can trust me too, Naegi thought.

Naegi had no way of knowing, but Owari was beginning to warm up to the idea of trusting him, if only just a little bit. He's a dead man if he says anything, but for some reason I don't think he will. Still, I can be strong on my own. I'll accept his help because of the lil' ones but that's it. I don't need someone to be strong for me, Owari thought.

The two then gathered up what they would need and headed to the train station to spend the day with the rest of the Owari family.


Hope's Peak Academy-Class 77-B's Homeroom

Tenth Week of Classes-Monday

The day after the hostage situation at the Novoselic Embassy had been a hectic one. The press where at the main gate attempting to get interviews with Sonia, Naegi, Tanaka, and Souda. They had gotten a few words from Naegi, but that just made the reporters want to interview Fujisaki, Ikusaba, and Enoshima too. Yukizome had received more than a few calls from the head of security, a former classmate and close friend of hers named Sakakura Juzo, the former Ultimate Boxer, asking her to "Send your damn students out here to talk so these jackasses will leave." Those were his words. He had screamed them loud enough for the class to hear it. Yukizome and her students had a feeling that Hope's Peak security, Sakakura specifically, wouldn't be getting any positive press anytime soon.

Though she hadn't played any real role in the hostage situation Owari had her share of problems because of it. She had been with her brothers and sisters when everything had started, and when the news broke the younger children had begged her to go and save Naegi. The news of Naegi being shot must have been reported sometime early this morning because before breakfast she received a call from Sadaharu asking if Naegi was alright. She spent almost twenty minutes trying convincing Mari, Ataru, and Suguru that Naegi wasn't in any danger so that they would stop crying. When that didn't work, she just handed her phone to Naegi. He probably would have had an easier time convincing them if Sonia hadn't kept trying to feed him.

That wasn't the only problem, at least not as far as Owari was concerned. Maizono had insisted on taking care of breakfast for the week even though Naegi trying to tell her he was fine. Kimura's medicine had healed his shoulder, but he made the mistake of saying that it was still sensitive. That was all Maizono need to hear, she insisted that she would take care of breakfast and dinner and that Naegi would rest. Maizono may have been a good cook but Mioda had volunteered her services too. The result this morning was an unrecognizable mess, but it seemed Maizono had managed to somewhat salvage it, so at least it was edible. Unfortunately, it just didn't taste as good as anything Naegi had made. The one silver lining in this was that Ikusaba was the one watching Naegi at the request of Maizono, Mioda, and Sonia, all to ensure he didn't overexert himself. When it seemed like the girls would not be convinced that there was nothing wrong with his shoulder, Naegi had attempted to go behind their backs and take care of things at the dorm. It was kind of funny seeing him try to outmaneuver the Ultimate Soldier, Owari had to admit.

Still, Owari hoped that it all blew over soon.


Hope's Peak Academy-Girls' Dorm

Tenth Week of Classes-Wednesday

It did not blow over soon. In fact, the more time went on, the more details emerged about the terrorists. The more details that emerged, the more questions the press had. Members of various media outlets from Novoselic now joined their Japanese counterparts outside of Hope's Peak. Those involved in the incident wouldn't have minded answering questions, except that they were questions that had been answered earlier in the week. Naegi, Sonia, and the others had told the press everything that they knew. They had even given statements to the reporters from Novoselic.

It makes sense I guess. The story would have been big news regardless, but Hope's Peak Academy also has a certain mystique about it. I guess when its students make the news like this, the story just sort of sticks around, Naegi thought.

It was almost dinner time and the residents of the dorm were waiting for Yukizome to come back. Headmaster Kirigiri had called a staff meeting to discuss what to do about the media. It had become clear after just two days that the press being at the main gate was making life difficult for security. A few younger reporters had even tried scaling the walls around the school in an attempt to get a major scoop.

Just as Maizono and Mioda were putting dinner on the table, Yukizome returned. "Well my little rotten oranges, I have some news," she said.

"What news Sensei?" Nanami asked.

"Since it doesn't seem like the media frenzy is dying down anytime soon, and since it is becoming increasingly difficult to hold classes with reporters distracting the students, the Headmaster has decided that we should all have some time off. So, no class next week," Yukizome said.

"How will that help Sensei, won't we all still be here?" Naegi asked.

"Well that's another thing we discussed at the meeting. The Headmaster thinks it would be best if everyone involved in the hostage situation would go on a trip next week," Yukizome said.

"So that would mean my sister, Naegi-kun, Sonia-senpai, Mioda-senpai, Maizono-san, Fujisaki-kun, Souda-senpai, Tanaka-senpai, and myself need to leave campus?" Ikusaba asked. She understood the Headmaster's reasoning, but it still felt like they were being chased out of Hope's Peak.

"I have a wonderful idea!" Sonia exclaimed. When everyone turned to look at her, they swore she had stars in her eyes.

"What is it Sonia-senpai?" Naegi asked.

"As thanks for what you all did at the Novoselic Embassy, we should all take a trip together. Class 77-B and Class 78 will spend a week at a hot spring inn near Mt. Fuji!" Sonia said.

"Both classes? As in every member of our classes?" Maizono asked.

"It is true that only a few members of each class had in active role in capturing the former ambassador and foiling his plans, but you all did come to make sure we were alright. I would feel awful if anyone were to be excluded," Sonia said.

"That's very generous of you Senpai," Naegi said.

"It is nothing Naegi-kun. To be perfectly honest, I have wanted to stay at a hot spring inn since I first arrived in Japan," Sonia said.

"If Yukizome-sensei and a male teacher chaperone us then I think this is a fine idea," Ogami said.

"I'll ask around and see if anyone is free," Yukizome said.

"Excellent, I will make reservations. If all goes well, we will leave Sunday morning and spend the whole week near Mt. Fuji," Sonia said.

Naegi noticed Owari looked like she wanted to say something, and he had a feeling that he knew what it was. She would either miss the trip or not visit her family that week. Naegi didn't think either option was fair, so he decided to ask, "Sonia-senpai, would it be alright for any of us to bring family members on this trip?"

"I hadn't expected to meet your family so soon, but never fear Darling, I have studied the basics of dating in Japan and I am sure that-," Sonia said before Naegi interrupted.

"Oh, I don't think that they'll be able to come Senpai, work and school keep my parents and sister pretty busy," Naegi said, more than a little embarrassed at being referred to as "Darling" in front of everyone and at causing such a misunderstanding.

"Then, I am afraid that I do not understand," Sonia admitted.

"Owari-senpai, don't you have seven younger siblings?" Naegi asked. He knew the answer, he just hoped Owari caught on to what he was doing.

"You know I do, I'm the one who takes care of them since my crappy parents don't live with us," Owari said, not sure why Naegi would ask something he already knew.

Owari might not have been able to guess what Naegi was trying to do, but it had the desired effect anyway since Sonia said, "Owari-san, you are more than free to invite your siblings if you want. The more the merrier after all."

"Huh? Oh yeah I guess I'll do that," Owari said, relieved. She knew that if she didn't bring them she would either be leaving them to fend for themselves for a week and worry the whole time, or she would be alone at the dorm with no one to cook for her and no leftovers or prepared meals to take home. Neither scenario was particularly appealing. The only thing she had to worry about now was the children missing school. They hardly ever miss school, so a week couldn't hurt, Owari thought. Owari may not have been the best student, but that didn't mean she didn't take her brothers' and sisters' education seriously. She then realized that Naegi asked about inviting family for her sake. She was grateful, but she still didn't get it. Naegi cared about her family even though he didn't have to, and he never wanted anything, no matter what or how many times she offered. Seriously, does he not know how the world works? Or does he think I can't do it on my own? Owari asked herself.

"Sounds like a plan. Sonia-san will you inform us when the reservations are made?" Yukizome asked.

"Of course Sensei. Next week will be 'hella cool!'" Sonia exclaimed happily.

With that dinner proceeded, with everyone looking forward to next week.


Yamanashi Prefecture-Road to the Inn

Eleventh Week of Classes-Sunday

Sonia had managed to make the reservations just as she had promised. Yukizome had also found a chaperone for the male students in the form of Kizakura, who many suspected just wanted to drink sake in a hot spring.

Naegi and Owari had split up from the group earlier in the morning to gather up her siblings for the trip. They had all met up again at the train station in the Yamanashi Prefecture and were now in buses on their way to their destination. Part of the deal allowing Owari's siblings to join the students of Hope's Peak was that Owari and Naegi would keep an eye on them. It could have been any male student that would watch Owari's brothers when circumstances would not permit her to do so, but it was clear that they respected their "Mako-nii" almost as much as their sister, so the job fell to Naegi, not that he minded.

"Are we there yet?" Ataru asked impatiently.

Well, there were times when he minded, like when Ataru asked that question for what felt like the millionth time. "Not yet Ataru-chan, but it shouldn't be that much longer," Naegi said as he showed him a brochure from the inn that everyone would be staying at and then pointed out the window. "See that forest? That's Aokigahara Forest and the inn we're staying at is just on its outskirts," Naegi explained.

"Wow, there are so many trees!" Mari exclaimed happily.

I wonder if this is their first time outside the city? Naegi wondered. Whether it was or not, he would make sure that they had many happy memories to take home with them. The "mini Owaris" as some of the members of Class 77-B and Class 78 had called them had grown on him in the short time he had known them.

The buses soon came to a stop, thankfully before Ataru asked if they had arrived again, and the teacher, the scout, the students, and the younger kids grabbed their luggage and made their way to inn's front desk. The inn was large, if Naegi hadn't known better he'd have thought that once it was a Japanese castle that had been converted into an inn. No one doubted that they would all be comfortable here for the next week.

"Welcome to Minato Inn, your port in the Sea of Trees! I'm the innkeeper, Mamiya Asuka! How may I help you?" a rather energetic woman asked.

"Hello Mamiya-san, I am Sonia Nevermind and we are the party from Hope's Peak Academy," Sonia said.

"Ah yes, you're fortunate to have made the reservations when you did otherwise we wouldn't have been able accommodate all of you," Mamiya said as she checked her records. She then looked at the group before looking back at her computer screen and said, "That's odd, I have honeymoon suite also reserved by Sonia Nevermind, but most of you are still children. Unless…," she trailed off as she looked at Kizakura and Yukizome.

"No, no, no, no, no! Absolutely not!" Yukizome shouted in embarrassment, and Naegi thought there was a bit of disgust mixed in.

It seemed that Naegi wasn't the only one who thought he heard disgust in Yukizome's voice as Kizakura joked, "Geez Yukizome, tell me how you really feel."

"I wonder how this happened then," Mamiya wondered aloud.

Three of the girls at least knew exactly how it had happened and those three glared at Sonia, who looked a little disappointed, her plan to be alone with her "destined one" having failed.

"Well, I'm afraid I can't cancel it at this point. Is there some way that you all could work this out?" Mamiya asked.


"I don't know how, but one of those lucky bastards is responsible for this," Souda groused as he and his roommate, Kuwata, tried to make the best of sharing the honeymoon suite. Souda would have been in a bad mood regardless of who his roommate was; before it had been decided that the boys would draw straws, Sonia had made one last attempt to get the room for her and her "destined one." The words "destined one" were still echoing in Souda's head.

"If that's true then I'm gonna go with Komaeda-senpai. Naegi-kun's luck only ever seems to affect him," Kuwata said. He wasn't happy about this either, he just knew the other guys would never let him forget this.

"How is this gonna work, there's only one bed?" Souda asked.

"I don't know, but when this week is over let's never speak of this again," Kuwata said.

To that, Souda just nodded so hard and so fast that Kuwata was amazed he didn't give himself whiplash.


Later that evening, the group decided to enjoy the open-air baths before bed. While the girls enjoyed themselves, Maizono decided to ask something that many of the girls who knew about Sonia's interests had been wondering since they learned that they would be staying at an inn near Aokigahara.

"Sonia-senpai this is very generous of you, but I've been wondering, did you pick this inn because Aokigahara is supposed to be haunted?" Maizono asked.

That question caused Owari to tense up. She had heard the stories about Aokigahara, but she had been trying not to think about it. She was hoping that there would be no test of courage. She wasn't sure she could think an excuse to get out of one if there was and she dreaded the thought of anyone knowing that she was afraid of ghosts, especially her siblings and her classmates. Naegi was the only one who knew about her fear as far as she knew, and she had every intention of keeping it that way.

"I must admit that the proximity to Aokigahara played a large role in my decision, There were many inns to choose from and all were rated very highly, but yes, I was hoping to see ghosts, I still am," Sonia said.

"G-g-ghosts?!" a male voice shrieked.

"Hagakure-kun, quiet. Don't do anything that will draw their attention," another male voice reprimanded. The girls of Class 77-B recognized that voice as belonging to Hanamura. It seemed that some of the boys were hoping to peep at them.

"You guys should be glad he drew their attention and ruined your dumbass plan. If you got caught you'd be dead," the voice of Kuzuryuu reprimanded.

"It probably wouldn't have worked anyway," Nidai's voice added.

"Just because their plan would have failed does not make it acceptable. We are representing our school and as such must not commit perverted acts!" Ishimaru shouted.

"Is the forest really haunted Mako-nii?" a young voice asked. Owari recognized it as her little brother Suguru.

"Supposedly it is, many people have taken their own lives in that forests. Recently local officials have stopped publicizing the numbers to try to decrease Aokigahara's association with suicide, but I don't know if it has made a difference since Aokigahara is already known as the Suicide Forest all over the world," Naegi's explained.

"I'm not scared, Akane-nii is tougher than any stupid ghost!" Ataru exclaimed.

"Ataru-chan, show some respect for the dead," Naegi said firmly. Not that any of the girls could see him, but at least four girls were picturing Naegi trying to look stern and finding the image amusing.

"Sorry Mako-nii," Ataru said.

"It's fine. Just remember, the people who died in that forest took their own lives, I think they deserve sympathy," Naegi said.

The girls heard Nidai ask, "You kids really admire your sister, don't you?"

"Yeah, we all want to be like Akane-nee," Sadaharu said. He probably would have gone on, but Suguru interrupted.

"Mako-nii. I'm tired," the five-year-old said sleepily.

"I guess it is a little late for you to be up, let's head in. Ataru-chan, you too" Naegi said.

"Ah Mako-nii, come on, just a little longer," Ataru complained.

"I'm sorry Ataru-chan, but kids your age need to be in bed early," Naegi said.

Ataru grumbled a bit but it sounded like the three boys got out of the water. The girls then heard a rustling followed by Ataru saying, "Catch me if you can Mako-nii."

"Ataru-chan! Give me my towel back!" Naegi yelled sounding mortified. The girls heard two sets of rapid footsteps a small set followed by a larger set. After a few minutes it seemed that Naegi managed to catch Ataru and get his towel back. "Ataru-chan, you know your sister is going to hear about this. I know you still want to play, but it's almost your bedtime," Naegi said sternly.

"Sorry Mako-nii," Ataru said in defeat. After that the girls heard three sets of footsteps head inside.

A moment of silence passed before the girls heard the voice of Togami say, "That was more of Naegi than I needed to see."

"So that's why the kid is always tripping. He always says it's clumsiness," the slightly tipsy voice of Kizakura said.

"I didn't want to say anything, but from what I've seen, his form while running always seemed off. I guess now we know why," Nidai's voice added.

"Can we please stop talking about it. It's bad enough that he's a chick magnet, now he has that going for him," the annoyed voice of Kuwata said.

"Some guys have all the luck," the girls heard Souda whine.

After that the girls stopped eavesdropping, but at least four of them made sure to remember what they heard at the end. Most of the girls were too embarrassed to say anything, at least if their red faces were any indication. Still there were those who couldn't leave well enough alone.

"That runt?" Saionji asked without a hint of irony. No one bothered to remind her that before her growth spurt she would have passed for an elementary school student.

"They say good things come in small packages. That small package apparently has a big package too," Enoshima responded. It wouldn't cause despair, but it was funny at least.

"Need I remind you girls that there are children present!" Yukizome reprimanded, although she wasn't faring any better than her students. It hadn't been long since she was a student herself after all. Still she had to act like the adult for Mari, Sayuri, and Natsuko at least. Thankfully, Mari seemed too young to understand what was happening, and if Sayuri and Natsuko did, they didn't show it.

Four girls in particular stayed silent, but their thoughts and feelings on the matter were soon clear.

"Sonia-san! Mioda-san! You're both bleeding!" Tsumiki shouted. It was true, they both had nosebleeds.

"Oh my, it would seem that Ikusaba-san and Maizono-san are too," Celes added. She was right, Ikusaba and Maizono had nosebleeds too.

"Excuse me!" all four girls shouted at once as they hurried out of the bath.

That had managed to break the tension. The girls probably weren't going to forget what they had heard anytime soon, but they were at least able to resume relaxing in the baths. Most of them at least, as Owari remembered what had kicked off the series of events on the mens' side that resulted in them hearing all about Naegi's "equipment." If it was time for Suguru and Ataru to go to bed then it was Mari's bedtime too.

"Naegi-kun had a point Mari, it's time for you to go to bed," Owari said to her youngest sister.

"Okay Akane-nee," Mari said, slightly disappointed that she couldn't stay up later.

There was one more bit of information to be gleaned from their time in the baths, but the only one who realized it was Enoshima. Enoshima knew that Owari was afraid of ghosts. Now that she knew for sure that Owari's siblings were unaware of that fact, a plan began to form in her mind. There would be a test of courage during their stay here, and she knew of three potential candidates. If things went well for her then perhaps the local officials would get their wish and Aokigahara would be known for something other than suicides.


Eleventh Week of Classes-Wednesday

Minato Inn

It was already evening in the middle of the week, which seemed to pass far too quickly for everyone's liking, as vacations are wont to do. Still, one particularly large group of guests decided not to dwell on that. They all found ways to occupy their time and relax. Some even formed bonds in the strangest ways.

Owada and Ishimaru, who had seemed like they would kill each other one day, had participated in an endurance contest at the inn's sauna. Somehow, Naegi had been the poor soul who had been picked to serve as witness and judge of that contest. A few hours in, Naegi had become so bored that he had fallen asleep only to be woken up by Owada and Ishimaru, who had finally gained respect for each other. No one was quite sure what had caused it, and given the odd behavior of the two participants, it was silently agreed that ignorance was bliss. It wasn't anything major, really, but something about a biker gang leader and a prefect going from bitter enemies to the best of friends in a few hours and then lecturing others on how they should not fight over petty matters just felt wrong.

That wouldn't be the strangest sight that Naegi, Owari, and the others would see though. Or rather, not see. Mari and Ataru had not been seen since dinner.

"Owari-senpai, have you seen Ataru?" Naegi asked.

"I was just coming to ask if you had seen Mari," Owari said. She tried not to show it, but Naegi knew she was worried.

"I'll go ask Mamiya-san and the other members of the staff if they've seen either of them. I hope they aren't outside, it's getting dark out," Naegi said as he headed towards the front desk.


Twenty minutes later and still nothing. Owari was now asking her other brothers and sisters if they knew anything.

"Do any of you know where those two went?" she asked trying not to sound worried. Most of the kids shook their heads or said that they hadn't. All except Suguru.

"I think they went into the forest Akane-nee," he said.

"What! Why?!" Owari asked, unable to keep her composure.

"Mari and Ataru wanted you and Mako-nii to think they were grown up enough to stay up with all of you. The three of us were thinking of ways to do that when we heard Enoshima-san talking with someone about tests of courage in the forest. Ataru and Mari said that if we showed everyone that we weren't afraid of ghosts then that would prove we were grown up. I didn't go because Mako-nii said we should respect the dead, but Mari and Ataru went into the forest right after dinner. They told me not to tell anyone, but I'm scared that something happened," Suguru said before he started crying.

"Dammit, I can't believe those two," Owari said in frustration. She knew she had to find those two, haunted forest or no haunted forest.

"Should we go get Mako-nii and everyone else?" Tatsunori asked.

"No. I've got this," Owari said. I've got this, it's just a forest. A haunted forest, but it's still just a forest, Owari thought. Try as she might, she could not forget that Aokigahara was supposedly haunted even as she ran out of the inn and headed towards the forest.


It wasn't even ten minutes later when Naegi came back from speaking with the members of the staff. No leads, not that he was surprised, the staff couldn't be expected to know where every guest was at any given time. Naegi was trying to think of what to do next when he heard a child crying. Never one to ignore someone in need, he headed towards the crying and heard a familiar voice.

"It's okay Suguru-chan. Akane-nee will bring Ataru and Mari back soon."

That's Natsuko-chan's voice, Naegi thought. "Bring them back from where?" Naegi asked as he entered the room.

"Mako-nii!" Suguru cried as he ran to Naegi and latched onto his leg.

"Where is Owari-senpai bringing Ataru-chan and Mari-chan from exactly?" Naegi asked. He was starting to get worried, a crying child was never a good sign at times like this.

"Ataru and Mari went into the forest after dinner and Akane-nee went after them about ten minutes ago," Sayuri answered.

"I'm sure they're fine, Aokigahara is pretty big, even Akane-nee might not find them right away," Sadaharu said. He was trying to keep everyone's spirits up, but Naegi could tell how worried he was.

That's true, but there's something else working against her, Naegi thought, as he remembered that Owari was afraid of ghosts. "Did Owari-senpai take a flashlight with her?" Naegi asked. It was a dumb question, at least he thought it was, but he wasn't going to tell these kids that he was going to go help their sister because she was afraid of ghosts.

"We didn't see her take one," Tatsunori said, while the other kids nodded in agreement.

"Okay, you kids go tell Mamiya-san and everyone from Hope's Peak what is going on. I'm going to grab a flashlight and go help your sister," Naegi said. He freed his leg from Suguru's grip and said to the small child, "Everything is going to be alright, I'll find your sister and then the two of us will bring Mari-chan and Ataru-chan back safe and sound."

"Promise?" Suguru said, calming down a bit.

"I promise," Naegi said with a reassuring smile before heading to his room. Good thing Sonia-senpai told me we were coming here. I hadn't planned on going into the forest, I just brought this to enhance the atmosphere if we told ghost stories. Funny how things turn out sometimes, Naegi thought as he pulled a flashlight out from among his belongings and headed outside and towards Aokigahara.


Aokigahara was known for being a particularly quiet forest, mostly due to it having a small number of animals. While that might have been fine during the day, it only served to make what was believed by some to be a haunted forest that much more terrifying at night. If the sun had been out at least there was a chance to see where an unexpected noise had come from. That was not the case at night, as Owari had soon discovered.

Snap!

"What was that," Owari said as she looked around frantically. When she didn't see anything she slapped her cheeks a few times and thought, C'mon Akane, Mari and Ataru are in here. Get it together. She began calling out for them.

"Ataru! Mari! Where are you?!"

Aokigahara may not have had many animals, but that did not mean there weren't any. Bats made this forest their home and they were hunting for their next meal. Owari had no way of knowing this, so when she heard a squeaking sound she panicked again and took off running.

She wasn't running for long before she stopped and dropped to her knees. Tears she had held back for years had begun to force their way out. Don't cry, no one is going to come and help you no matter how much you cry, she told herself. It didn't do any good, the tears started falling as she said, "Mari, Ataru, I'm sorry. Akane-nee is weak."

"No you aren't," a voice said.

"Huh?" Owari looked up and saw Naegi through her tears.

"Owari-senpai, you're one of the strongest people I know, but even you can't do everything yourself. You've had to do so much on your own, but things are different now. Last time we talked about this, I wanted to let you know that just because no one helped you in the past doesn't mean they won't help you now. I may not have been clear back then so let me say this now. I will help you Senpai, whenever you need me. All you have to do is ask," Naegi said as he held out his hand to help Owari to her feet.

The tears didn't stop, but they were no longer tears of sadness and frustration. That warmth Owari felt from Naegi returned as soon as she grabbed his hand, pulled herself to her feet and embraced Naegi. He's so warm, almost like the sun. He came to help. I was crying, and someone came to help me, she thought. "Naegi-kun, I need your help," she said as she began to calm down.

"I'd be more than happy to help Senpai," Naegi said as he rubbed her back to calm her down. Owari seemed to have forgotten about the difference in height between the two, but Naegi knew now was not the time to get flustered.

"Senpai, I'm sorry," Naegi said suddenly.

"Huh? For what?" Owari asked. To her knowledge, Naegi hadn't done anything wrong.

"About what I said a few weeks ago. I mean I stand by it, you don't have to do things alone, but I realize that neither way is really wrong, they're just different attitudes," Naegi explained

"No, I-I get what you were tryin' to say. When everyone's together, they can make up for their weakness... That's what you meant, right?" Owari asked.

Naegi nodded and said, "You're strong Senpai. Like I said, you're one of the strongest people I know. That won't change just by accepting someone's help."

"The Old Man said somethin' similar. But I didn't understand so I didn't listen, but I understand now. Your words make sense to me," Owari said after she had released Naegi from the embrace but didn't let go of his hand.

"I'm glad. Now let's go find those two," Naegi said as led Owari by the hand through the woods.


"Mari! Ataru!" Owari called out as she and Naegi made their way deeper into Aokigahara. It seemed like they had been walking for a long time, even though it had only been ten minutes. "Where are they?" she asked out loud, even though she knew Naegi couldn't answer.

"I don't think two small children could have made it too far," Naegi said, thankful that the children in question were only six and seven. Still, if the children had managed to get all the way to Mt. Fuji, he and Owari would have to be ready to explore the caves. Pushing that thought aside, he called out, "Mari! Ataru! It's Mako-nii and Akane-nee! Where are you!?"

"Akane-nee! Mako-nii!" a young girl's voice called out. The two of them heard the sound of a child running towards them and soon Owari Mari was in front of them, looking sad and scared.

"Mari-chan, thank goodness you're alright. Is Ataru close by?" Naegi asked as Owari embraced her younger sister.

"We thought we heard a ghost and started running. Ataru tripped and fell into some thorns. He says it hurts to move," Mari said as she started crying.

"Where is he?" Owari asked, any relief she felt from seeing Mari had disappeared when she heard about Ataru.

"I'll show you," Mari managed to say through her sobbing and hiccupping.

After a short walk they came across Ataru who was sitting against a tree. He was scratched up, and although it looked painful, he wasn't in any serious danger.

"Ataru, Akane-nee and Mako-nii are here," Mari told her brother.

"Are you okay to walk back Ataru-chan?" Naegi asked.

"Mako-nii, it really hurts," Ataru said as he started crying.

"Can you hold onto me?" Naegi said as he crouched down to give Ataru a piggyback ride.

"Here, let me help," Owari said as she picked up her brother who then latched onto Naegi. Once he was properly situated, Naegi stood up. Somehow, he managed to carry Ataru will holding the flashlight he had brought in one hand and while Owari grabbed onto the other.

Whether it was because she wasn't afraid of ghosts when she held Naegi's hand or because of the warmth he gave off, Owari didn't know and she didn't care either. Since meeting up with Naegi she had not let go of his hand until he had to pick up Ataru and she had no plans to let go until they were out of Aokigahara Forest. Owari caught herself thinking that if it were not for Ataru's scratches, she wouldn't mind being lost for a little while. Those thoughts were interrupted when Mari grabbed onto Owari's free hand and the four of them started walking back the way they came.


It wasn't long before they found the path and made their way out of Aokigahara to find their friends and most of the Inn's staff preparing to go into Aokigahara.

"Now I know it's dark, but we have two missing children in the forest. Their sister and a young man are looking for them-," Mamiya was saying to everyone, before Naegi interrupted her.

"Actually Mamiya-san, we've found them. Ataru-chan has a bunch of scratches, but otherwise everything is alright now," he said.

"Thank goodness," Mamiya said letting out a sigh of relief.

As the gathered staff started to disperse, Tsumiki came forward and said, "I c-can patch u-up Ataru-chan. B-bring him inside."


Once the group from Hope's Peak had gone inside, Tsumiki set to work. "And that should do it," Tsumiki said as she stepped back not even four minutes later. Ataru's scratches had been cleaned and bandaged, and both he and Mari had calmed down.

"So, he's okay?" Owari asked.

"I feel much better Akane-nee," Ataru said.

"Good," Owari said as she then smacked Ataru and Mari upside their heads.

"Ow!" Mari cried as she rubbed the back of her head.

"That hurt Akane-nee," Ataru wailed as he did the same as Mari.

"Good, I'm glad. Maybe you two won't do something so stupid ever again. Do either of you know what would have happened if Suguru hadn't said anything?" Owari asked.

"Sorry Akane-nee," they both said, looking at the floor in shame.

"Akane-nee, why are you still holding Mako-nii's hand?" Suguru asked.

Four sets of eyes glared at the linked hands. Sonia, Mioda, Maizono, and Ikusaba had been so worried about Ataru and Mari and so relieved when they had been found that they hadn't noticed until Suguru had mentioned it.

Owari looked at her hand and, sure enough, her hand was still in Naegi's. She was not looking forward to telling her family that this started because she was scared. Thankfully, she wouldn't have to.

"Your sister was helping me. I was so worried about Mari-chan and Ataru-chan that I ran into the forest before I remembered that I'm afraid of ghosts," Naegi said with a laugh as he rubbed the back of his head, trying to look embarrassed.

Owari blushed at that, first he cooked for her family, then he helped her find her brother and sister, and now he was helping her save face in front of them. He's so awesome, she thought. She remembered something that Mari had asked, "Akane-nee, are you gonna marry Mako-nii someday?" You know something, that sounds pretty good.

"I guess Mako-nii isn't as cool as I thought," Ataru said. That earned him another smack from Owari. "Ow! What did I do that time?" he asked as he rubbed the back of his head.

"That's for being rude. Naegi-kun had done a lot for us, so show him some respect. Besides, everyone's afraid of something," Owari lectured.

"Even you Akane-nee?" Suguru asked.

"Yeah, even me. But I can still be brave because I have a lot of people who will help me when I get scared," Owari said. I just refused to accept that until tonight, she added mentally.

"So Akane-nee and Mako-nii are still cool, even if they can get scared?" Suguru asked.

"Do you think we're cool Suguru-chan?" Naegi asked as he knelt down to get eye level with Suguru.

"Akane-nee and Mako-nii are the coolest!" Suguru exclaimed without hesitation.

"There's your answer than," Naegi said with a smile as he ruffled Suguru's hair. After he stood up he said, "Come on kids, time for bed."

"Yes Mako-nii," the younger voices said as Owari's three youngest siblings followed Naegi who had been tucking them in every night since they arrived at the inn. Owari's other four siblings just made their way to their rooms, but all seven were ready to put tonight behind them.

Owari was about to head to bed too, when Ikusaba came up to her and asked, "Owari-senpai, can we talk for a bit in my room?"

"Are you finally ready to fight me Ikusaba-san?" Owari asked, her fatigue forgotten.

"Actually there is something we need to discuss," Sonia said as Mioda and Maizono nodded in agreement.

Once the five of them arrived in the room that Maizono, Mioda, Ikusaba, and Sonia shared, something they had agreed to in order to keep their eyes on each other, Sonia asked, "Before we begin Owari-san, how would you feel about being Naegi-kun's mistress?"

"Huh?" Owari asked. If she wasn't confused before, she was now.

"Don't mind Sonia-chan, Akane-chan," Mioda said.

"She made us that offer too, and we turned it down," Maizono added.

"It is a very generous offer, I am agreeing to share my future husband with all of you," Sonia defended.

"Future husband?" Owari questioned nervously, if Naegi was already taken then there wasn't much she could do.

"What Sonia-senpai means is that we all feel the same way about Naegi-kun as you do. Thanks to his living situation he can't pursue a romantic relationship, but…," Ikusaba started to explain.

"Oh, I get'cha," Owari said with a feral smile. The other girls briefly wondered what exactly Owari "got" before she charged at them.

Maizono, Mioda, and Sonia grabbed onto each other while screaming in terror, when Owari got that look she was like a rampaging beast and they knew it. Ikusaba, who had experience with sudden attacks, charged to meet Owari and wrestled her to the floor. Once Owari had realized she couldn't overpower the Ultimate Soldier she calmed down and Ikusaba finished what she had been trying to tell her.

Owari had listened, but still said, "My way would have been faster and more fun."

That got a laugh out of all the girls present. It was nice to know that they could be love rivals and still be friends.


Eleventh Week of Classes-Saturday

Minato Inn

The day had come, the day when the group from Hope's Peak Academy and Owari's family had to return home. They had wished that they could have stayed longer, but they had to go back to being students at some point.

Naegi was helping Ataru and Suguru get their things together when he bumped into someone. That someone was Nidai Nekomaru.

Nidai had noticed how Owari had been acting towards Naegi and put two and two together. While it may not have been his place to interfere, his classmates were like one of his teams and he cared about their well-being. Owari was one of his favorites because of how hard she was willing to work to improve herself. While he still believed Kuzuryuu's and Tanaka's assessments of Naegi as a good person, he wanted to check for himself.

"Hey Naegi-kun, when you and Owari-san get back to the Academy could you come see me? There's something we need to discuss," Nidai said.

"Okay," Naegi said, slightly confused.


Present Day

I'm still not clear on what Nidai-senpai wanted. He asked me questions about Owari-senpai and when we were done he just smiled and nodded, Naegi thought as he remembered his conversation with Nidai after he and Owari had taken her brothers and sisters home.

"Hey Naegi-kun, this isn't for a while yet, but would you come to the lil' ones' sports day? They'd really like to see you there," Owari said. I'd like that too, she thought as she blushed.

"Sure, I'd be more than happy to go. I'll make us all lunch," Naegi said with a smile.

Owari blush didn't fade as she started drooling. Even if she had to share him with her brothers and sisters, she'd still get Naegi without her rivals around, and now he had promised to make lunches for them too. Wiping her mouth, Owari pulled Naegi into another hug.

Naegi had gotten used to it, so Owari's hugs didn't fluster him like they used to. What he didn't know was that Owari was very much aware of the difference in height, now she did this to try to get an advantage over the other girls. It's not cheating, I'm just playing to my strengths, she reasoned.

What Owari forgot was that in addition to Ogami and Nidai, one of her rivals, Asahina Aoi, was present too. She was more than capable of rivaling Owari's "strengths." That isn't what she did however as she tugged on Naegi's sleeve to get his attention and said, "Naegi-kun would you come to Yuta's sports day too, he really wants to see you again."

"I knew that Naegi-kun had met your brother Asahina-san, but I was unaware that they were that close," Ogami said.

By this time, Owari had released Naegi so she could devote all of her energy to glaring at Asahina. Naegi did not notice this and said, "Yeah, I met Yuta-kun when Komaru and I ran into Asahina-san a while ago and the four of us meet up for lunch when we can. Now that I think about it, I seemed to meet up with Asahina-san a lot back then."

"Is this related to that morning Naegi-kun wouldn't talk about?" Nidai asked. That was still something he and the other boys of Class 77-B and Class 78 wondered about.

Naegi and Asahina both turned red form embarrassment before Naegi started stuttering, "W-well, a-about t-t-that…"


Want to know what happened, you'll have to come back next chapter to find out.

Ah, another chapter done. I think this one is pretty good. I just hope I kept Akane in character. She did freak out in her free time event when she thought she saw a ghost, so I guess I got that right. And she seems pretty stubborn. Yeah, I think I'm okay.

Jokes about sizes, I probably shouldn't have done that but I couldn't resist, it just seemed too funny.

I didn't forget to write Junko's reaction. I just thought maybe I should save the reactions for her chapter from now on. Don't worry, I have a plan.

For all of you Kazuichi and Leon fans, I'm gonna give those two a break, I just wanted to mess with them one last time before I did. I was thinking I could have put Mondo and Taka, Hifumi and Teruteru, or Byakuya and the Imposter (with Byakuya mask) in the room together, but the first one is too obvious and the other two sound like ideas that could be given their own chapters. Could you imagine Hifumi and Teruteru beginning to disgust each other with their perverted tendencies? I sort of can.

Oh man, JK businesses. Did you ever learn about something you'd just like to forget? That's how I feel about learning about all the ways underage girls can be exploited. I know it isn't just Japan, don't get me wrong, but for the purposes of this chapter I limited myself to just Japan.

I thought linking Makoto's outrage at the men who harassed Akane to that perverted teacher who watched Komaru sleep was a pretty good idea. That is the kind of thing that leaves a lasting impression on not just the victim or almost victim (I hope that doesn't sound like I'm making light of situations like that, it's just that, canonically, he apparently just apologized and left after Komaru woke up), but the whole family so I would imagine Makoto has some very strong feelings on the subject.

In case anyone is wondering, Akane's siblings' names were taken from Kinnikuman characters. I know that she likes Dragon Ball, she mentions it twice in SDR2, but I couldn't get too many names out of that, so I went for another series that involves fighting and power levels. And once I did that, I had to include the "Gyudon Ondo" the jingle Makoto sang to the kids. I didn't have him do the dance, don't worry. Look it up on YouTube to see what I mean.

Should I keep having Sonia ask the new girls if they want to be Naegi's mistresses or has that joke run its course?

Once again, I thank Pupla for all the help he has given me when coming up with ideas. And I'd like to thank both Pupla and KnightSpark for proofreading this chapter. I hope I didn't make too much work for you two.

On another note, I got three reviews about the Danganronpa-Destiny idea and all of them wanted idea three (Naegi was brought back as a Guardian and his Ghost gets sent back in time to before the Tragedy). So after Forsaken and the Lore Book come out I'll see what I can do about a test chapter or two.

Before that though, Aoi Asahina is next. I hope you'll all come back for that chapter.

Read and review and I'll see you next time.