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Chapter Text

...We 16 of Hope's Peak Academy's chosen were instructed to meet in the gymnasium, completely unaware of the tragedy about to befall us.

"If you want to graduate, then hurry and start the killing already!" The bear bellowed those forbidden words in malicious glee. Trapped with virtual strangers, each of us hesitantly traded glances with one another; studying in order to find an answer to that one crucial inquiry: Will this person betray us?

This school, which had raised our hopes so high. It wasn't* a school of hope.

It was a school of despair.

"Not again!" A cute little brat shouted, interrupting his story. "We've heard this story like 3 times already, Hiro."

"Don't knock the classics, Saika." Yasuhiro Hagakure lectured the little boy. He sat on a stool, surrounded on all sides by children of varying ages but not a single one older than 14.

"Sai-chan's right. I want you to tell a new story. A new one." A girl even younger than the other boy, whined. Guess he should have expected that since they were twins and all. They even had the same pink hair.

"Not you too, Kotori..." Crap, he didn't have anything else to entertain these kids with. "Fiiine, give me a minute to think of a good one."

He was met with resounding applause from the misfits. Buncha jerks.

Ugh, he just had to pull the short straw. Now he was stuck with the responsibility of baby-sitting all the kids while the adults were busy doing 'who knows what' before the reunion officially began. He hated responsibility.

Hiro waded his way through the little tykes and walked towards an unnecessarily huge glass window. They were all currently located at the top floor of a grand hotel. From there, an aged Yasuhiro took in the city lights in an attempt to clear his head.

What could he think of...there was that story, he supposed.

He felt a poking sensation on the back of his leg.

"Heeerooo." Chisaki, age 3, a bespectacled girl with purple braided hair, latched onto his trousers. How Toko landed a kid that cute was one of life's great mysteries.

Hiro turned back to see the entire platoon staring at him with anticipation. Sheesh, they were like mini-mes of the gang and even more on the way when their parents finally got here.

"What's with you kids? You know Leon's a pro baseball player. Why didn't you ask him to stay and give me a break?"

"No!" They should be in a choir with that kind of vocal synchronization.

"Dad's cool and all but you're definitely more fun to be around, Hiro." Raki, Leon's kid. As easy going as his dad but thankfully nowhere near as much of an idiot thanks to his mom. He had a pretty good voice to boot.

Hey, at least these kids have taste.

"Yeah, Hiro's more like us!"  That...he could have gone without hearing but Mika probably meant well. Like Ibuki, his hair was streaked in purple and a bunch of other colors; all this time, he thought Ibuki wore clip-ons like Celes did back then. Not that Hiro would dare say that to the gambler's face, lest he risk his life.

Man, just looking at these brats made him feel old and he was "only" in his thirties. Oh well, Hina and the others should be arriving to lend him a hand in about an hour. He wouldn't get very far into the story within that time-frame so there'll be no problem when he's stopped early on.

Chisaki tugged on his leg again.

"...What the heck, it'll be a good history lesson." Hiro sighed and picked the girl up into his arms. If they wanted a story, he'd give them the best one of their lives. The clairvoyant returned to his seat and looked to see his entrance way gated off by two of the more muscular ones. Yoshi and Ayato didn't feel like letting him escape again. Stuuuuupid, it doesn't matter if you've got Sakura or Akane's and Nekomaru's genes, you're 100 years too early to challenge the great Yasuhiro!

"Alright I got a good one for you and I bet you haven't heard about it in your textbooks either." Probably. Who knows what kids were taught nowadays "How long has it been, 14 years? Maybe 16? Anyway, you little guys know about the real Hope's Peak right?" Hopefully more than those fictional stories he tells them.

"Duh!"

"Nice, saves me some time. This story dates back to when good ol' Uncle Hiro and your folks were still enrolled there as Ultimates." The kids positively glowed with interest. Hiro was a little worried now. He wouldn't get off with just a punch to the noggin if he gave them the wrong impression of their parents. They might even sick Sakura on him! In that case, he'd have to tone down the nitty gritty.

"See, back then, things were a little (a lot!) crazier than right now. Let's just say the classes that year were the most memorable in the Academy's existence; 77, 78 and later, 79."

"If I were to put it into the words, that time was pure chaos. Anything can and did happen; even the whole country nearly dragged into it." Admittedly that was a bit of a vague description to give them a proper understanding but it couldn't be helped - It was one of those things where you just had to be there. 

To call it a war would be inappropriate. Violence there may have been but it wasn't an iota conventional or pervasive enough to be labeled that simply. It was more like...the party of the century, where collateral damage was unavoidable. Even if you tried to explain it to the poor saps who missed out, they wouldn't fully grasp the excitement without having experienced it personally.

....A party....

"That's it!" Hiro clapped his hands "It wasn't just chaos, it was a Super High School Level Festival everyone and their mothers got invited to (their mothers to be exact); from the mafia, to detectives, assassins, several serial killers, robots, bikers, cultists, human experiments, evil secret organizations and masochist supermodels bent on world domination. Hell, even the prime minister was involved!" Hiro clawed at his hair just remembering that cluster****

"Hiro, you mixed in a dozen different genres in there. Not only is that artless but the story isn't going to have any sensible flow." Priscilla, the third eldest and our resident cynic, critiqued. She had pale skin and jet-black hair that reached her waist. And as to be expected of Celes' daughter, she had one hell of a poker face.

"I'm telling you it's not a story, it actually happened." Hiro pointed at her, then grinned. "And at the eye of the storm was the person who you could call the mastermind behind it all." That had captured their attention fully.

"He went by many titles but nobody could dispute his legend as the most feared man in the entire underworld. I knew him as one of my best pals" The memory of that spiky-haired madman came to the surface  "His name was...Motoko Nagi."

The kids went silent for a moment, until...

"Liar liar, Hiro's pants are gonna be on fucking fire." Kenma said. Unfortunately, looks like Fuyuhiko wasn't able to keep his swearing habits in check and well... monkey see, monkey do. His older sister, Shizuku hit him on the head with a wooden sword. "Don't curse...and don't cry either, Ken." They younger boy stopped his tears before they even fell. Shizuku was the spitting image of her mother, Peko...however she had none of the swordswoman's more reserved traits. For example, Shizuku had no qualms taking charge.

"As for the rest of you; disrespect towards your elders will not be tolerated, even if it is uncle Hiro. Do I make myself clear?" She commanded

"Yes, Onee-sama!" They were all brought to heel...scary.

"Very good, I understand the premise seems rather far-fetched to be true but I've heard father mention that name many times before."

"How incredible, then Uncle Hagakure is telling the truth?" That was Cain. Yeah, this one was a bit too special for Hiro to be calm around. He was the stereotypical golden prince, girls swooned over. Only this case was very literal as the little foreigner was actually royalty and heir to the Nevermind throne. Personality-wise, he was a good kid and about the only one who treats me with the respect I deserve, goddammit.

...However, he was also a bit... scratch that, excessively lacking in common sense thanks to his parents.

"I was skeptical at first but as expected of Uncle Hagakure; even in mundane matters like story-telling, you refuse to be boring. To think festivities involving such interesting specimen had occurred without my hearing of it - - how exciting...aaah, how wonderful. Please, go on and do be careful to not leave a single left stone un-turned...or else..." 

See what I mean? Now, that was his father talking...although Hiro mentioned serial killers so it could easily be Sonia too...

"There's a good reason for why you guys never heard of that story but even if there weren't, do you really think crime dealings would be available to the public, and to children?" If they were then school really has changed.

They appeared satisfied with that explanation.

"What's this Nagi guy like? If he was such a big deal then he must have been like Ken's pops." The (wannabe) delinquent, Dai asked. She was Mondo’s little girl, even if she tried to pose like a dude. Key word there, tried. Which doesn’t really work with an adorable face.

"Pffft-ahahahaha. Swing and a miss, kiddo. Nagi wasn't born a born gangster like Fuyuhiko and he didn't become one through violence like Mondo, or stacks of cash like Byakuya...He was waaaay cooler than that. He was..." Hiro faltered after being hit by a sudden wave of nostalgia, and an echo of the past.

How's it taste? I think I finally got it down this time, Hiro.

Those really were fun times...

"...a bartender."

Chapter Text

November 10th 2010

"...Remember to brush your teeth twice every day. Oh and change your blankets regularly too."

"I'm not a kid anymore; you don't have to check up on me all the time."

"If you say so, honey. You should have enough money to take care of most things anyway...just be careful, I've heard some dreadful rumors circulating around that area lately..."

"Uh, there was an explosion in the gym but I haven't heard about any serious injuries."

"A what!?"

"Bye, mom."

He ended the call...and he had lied through his teeth.

Makoto Naegi was in fact, flat broke.

He'd made the mistake over-indulging himself in the facilities offered by the school and spent all his savings.

"Good going, Makoto. Now how are you going to find food for the next month?"

He needed to examine his options:

1. Call Mom back and tell the truth

>2. Find a job

Even Naegi had some pride and he wasn't going to run back to his parents like an irresponsible child (though that's exactly what he was). In that case, finding employment was the only other option. High school students were normally prohibited from working in order to focus on their studies but he didn't remember rules like that in Hope's Peak. And students here rarely studied anyway...except if you were in the reserve course. Tests and exams were largely focused on assessing their talents, most of which didn't need you to be ultra smart...unless that's what your talent was about, like Fujisaki.

Naegi turned to face his window and found his present mood matched the gray skies and the rainy weather that accompanied them.

He sighed and grabbed an umbrella.

Just my luck.

His tour around the school had proven fruitless. He didn't know anyone who had the mundane experience required to give him proper advice, and Hagakure was...Hagakure. It was getting late...and Naegi had promised mom not to loiter around at this hour.

Time to call it quits.

"Where'd that idiioooot go!?" Suddenly, a large, burly man in blue track wear yelled as he ran past, with...lightning...streaking out of his eyes. Naegi wasn't familiar with the individual but he'd seen many students (?) running around the area. And just like right now, every one of them was absolutely furious and none stopped to hear what he had to say.

That was when he heard rustling from the large bushes nearby and the ruffling was too noisy to be a squirrel or a similarly diminutive animal. Against his better judgment, Naegi moved closer...until something sprung out of it.

"Whoa!" Naegi jumped back as a figure emerged from the green.

A taller boy wiped the leaves caught in his hair and dragged a travel bag out of the bushes. "This bites. For me to me go through these lengths to escape, only to be found right at the very end. What splendid bad luck I'm having."

Naegi's heart jumped as he took in the boy's form; soaking wet from the rain, muddy, scrapes on his skin...and how pale he was. Naegi thought he'd fall over any second.

1. Help him

>2. Help him

"H-Hey, come with me." Naegi said hurriedly.

Before the white-haired boy could refuse his request, the luckster grabbed the student's hand and dragged him off to his room. The stranger had given up protesting half-way and consented to accepting Naegi's actions as "unparalleled generosity" or so he put it. Once there, Naegi forced the sickly man to take a shower while he washed his clothes. 

Afterwards, Naegi brought out disinfectants and him on the bed to treat the man's, thankfully minor, wounds.

"Um, your clothes will take a bit to dry and it's getting kind of late...you feel like staying over?" Naegi offered, trying to hide his anticipation at having company over.  Although, he was probably doing a poor job of that, happily spinning on a chair like that - not unlike a child just moments before un-wrapping gifts on Christmas morning.

Naegi had thought to give the stranger his clothes...if not for the sheer height difference making any attempts at finding fitting clothes not even worth considering.

"And infringe on your kindness a second later? I'd kill myself before acting so shamelessly." That was said a little too adamantly for Naegi to pass it off as a joke. This guy was kind of weird.

"Don't sweat it. Anyone would have helped you out of that rain." Naegi said. Speaking of which "I forgot to introduce myself. I'm-"

"...Makoto Naegi, right?" The other boy interrupted him with a knowing smile.

"Y-yeah." Naegi wondered how this person knew him. He could have checked the registry of new admissions into Hope's Peak. Naegi was listed there but that would imply this person bothered to remember someone as forgettable as him.

"Good guess. That's exactly what I did." The boy said. He reached into his luggage and brought out a stack of files. After less than a minute of rummaging through them, he took one out and Naegi immediately recognized his own photo on the transcript. "It's my obligation as a stepping-stone to know every single ultimate in this academy, regardless of whatever talent they've got...and I must admit, I was interested to see what another Ultimate Lucky Student was like."

Naegi was slightly taken aback by that detail.

Was he possibly an Ultimate Lucky Student too? If there was ever a sign...

"You know me but I don't know you, sorry." Naegi said.

"Ah, how rude of me. I'm not worth the introduction...buuut my name is Nagito Komaeda, The Ultimate Lucky Student of Class 77." Komaeda answered.

He was an upperclassman at that. What was he doing acting so recklessly then?

"Komaeda-san, what were you doing in the bushes?"

"Oh that...I was hiding. I'm not sure why but I've profoundly pissed off everyone in my class...to the point that I feared for my life, haha." Komaeda laughed a bit. So he's the cause of all the ruckus. What could he have done to infuriate so many?

"I'm not sure I get it but you ought to take better care of yourself." Naegi gave Komaeda a stern warning.

"Thank you so very much." Komaeda crossed the distance between them and clasped Naegi's hands with his own. "To think I would bear witness to such kindness. It wouldn't surprise me if I died tomorrow."

T-Too close Naegi flushed.

"...Please stop talking about your mortality, and anyone would give you the same advice." Naegi thought the older boy probably meant well - his mode of communication was just a tad off-base.

Komaeda voiced a subtle disagreement and retreated back to the bed, placing the files back into his bags.

"What's with that luggage, you going somewhere?" Naegi couldn't see any other reason for dragging that around that in the middle of the school year.

"...I won an 'all-around-the-world vacation ticket' and I'll be gone all year, starting from next week. Maybe more." Komaeda said all this nonchalantly. As if ignorant of the privilege he'd been awarded.

"For real?" Naegi asked. Komaeda took the pass out of his bag and showed it to him.

"That's some great luck..." Naegi muttered as he examined the ticket's authenticity."I can't compete at all with my track record." He joked

Komaeda didn't laugh though. Instead...

"Naegi-kun, there is something I must confess." Komaeda looked him dead in the eye and the atmosphere shifted; that jovial behavior he'd maintained the whole time was replaced with a mask of indifference...and something else Naegi couldn't discern.

"I was greatly interested in you at the start of the year, because I wanted to observe how you coped with your luck." Naegi remembers Komaeda mentioning that before. However, the way Komaeda phrased his inquiry suggested he didn't see luck as a positive quality at all... "My talent goes on in cycles of good and bad luck...and as you can see from that pass, it is quite extreme. That's why I was...disappointed to see you were so...ordinary."

"Tell me about it. On top of having no talent, I'm also broke and can't find a job." If Komaeda had intended to insult Naegi, the younger lucky student didn't appear to have caught it. Instead, he dismissed his lackluster ability as a trivial matter.

"You misunderstand, Naegi-kun." Komaeda shook his head. "Your talent is real, even if you don't notice it. Rather, it’s because your luck is potent yet doesn't adversely affect you that I'm disappointed...that you weren't like me."

Though Komaeda claimed disappointment, Naegi sensed something different in his tone. That feeling was...enmity, the kind one directs at others who have something they don't.

"Komaeda, correct me If I'm wrong but...do you dislike me?" Naegi scratched his head uncomfortably. He had a large circle of friends and subsequently, he was constantly surrounded by affection. That's why he could pick out a foreign emotion like hatred at a glance. He could tell Komaeda was unhappy but Naegi hadn't done anything to warrant that, not to his knowledge anyway.

"Don't be ridiculous, I could never hate an Ultimate. I'm just disgusted with myself...for there really isn't anything filthier than envy." Komaeda replied dismissively, however Naegi remained unconvinced. Komaeda's affable words didn't match his disposition.

"I don't think there's anything wrong with wanting a partner who shares the same experiences as you." Naegi spoke in neutral terms. Without a proper understanding of Komaeda's circumstances, he couldn't say anything insensitive.

"If you admire someone...then at some point you've probably also wanted to be like them and can't stand that you're not. Envying others is fine...just as long as you don't make it an excuse." Naegi could see Komaeda slightly jerk at his words.

"What do you mean?" Komaeda's tone was both mechanical and argumentative.

There it was again...

He wondered if Komaeda had been forcing himself to act cordial... "I think the Ultimates are amazing too. I always hear about their incredible feats and tell myself 'I could never be like that'".

Komaeda huffed what sounded like "of course" but Naegi continued in spite of him.

"I'm embarrassed to admit this but I was jealous of my classmates too. Though I tried to hide it, being around raw talent day in and day out started to take its toll on me, to the point when even some of my friends noticed.... Come to think of it, Enoshima-san in particular saw right through me. She pointed out all the flaws and ugliness I'd kept hidden deep down and some I didn't even know about. She was brutal...so much that I wanted to leave the academy." He wore a sad smile

"Yet you stayed." Komaeda said, unimpressed. He wasn't even attempting to feign enthusiasm anymore.

"Yup. Thankfully, my little sister called to check up on me. She just went on and on about how proud she was to have a brother enrolled in Hope's Peak." Naegi stopped, ruminating.

"Komaeda-kun, do you have any siblings?"

"Unfortunately, no. I'm alone." He replied. What he meant by "alone" stretched beyond the parameters of Naegi's inquiry. Not that the brown-haired boy could have known that.

"I see. Let's just say little sisters are the most troublesome creatures on the planet for us older brothers...and mine is particularly selfish. The whole time, she didn't even pick up on how depressed I was...however, she looked up to me and said she'd try her hardest to get accepted here too."

Komaeda bit back a scoff.

"I lectured her, trying to turn her away. I was just an exception, an outlier who wormed his way in here by sheer luck of the draw...and you know what she said to me? She called me 'annoyingly humble' and 'ungrateful'...for not recognizing that winning that draw meant I had beaten thousands of others who would have done anything to be in my position. Then she hung up without even waiting for a reply."

"That's nothing impressive. Anyone could have won that lottery, regardless of their worth." Komaeda's logic wasn't inaccurate...however it lacked spirit and flexibility. It lacked hope.

"Yes but out of anyone, that person was me. How likely do you think that was on a statistical level? Now consider the fact that I've actually had 'luck' all my life." Naegi chuckled.

Komaeda couldn't find a rebuttal. Not one that wouldn't end up contradicting himself...because the white-haired ultimate had said it already. Naegi's talent was real.

"I looked at myself in the mirror and thought how much of a loser I was not to realize that simple detail, when my family and even the academy itself had known the whole time. Worse is I had the gall to deny Komaru's aspirations, which she only had because of me."

"That was when I decided. The next day...I'd make Owada-kun punch me in the face." Naegi scratched his chin.

Komaeda had to double-take.

"*cough*...Mondo...Owada? The biker? The gang leader whose never lost a brawl? That owada?"

Naegi couldn't help but laugh at Komaeda's stupefied expression. Even he thought Naegi was crazy for coming up with a plan that suicidal.

"He was reluctant at first but he got into it when I told him it'd be a friendly fight. Hehehe, I think he took that to mean I could handle anything he threw at me as an equal and...he kind of...didn't hold back. At all." Naegi frowned at that part. He barely remembers getting flown back from Owada's punch and the concussion that came shortly after.

"...When was this?" Komaeda asked after a short silence.

"The incident? I think sometime around September."

"What day?" The Ultimate enthusiast didn't miss a beat

"I'm not sure, it should have been on a weekday...on the second week." Naegi tried to recall but to no avail. "Sorry but I mostly remember the concussion...talk about bad luck huh?" He giggled.

Consequently, he failed to notice the way Komaeda's eyes swirled.

"Bad...luck...!?" Komaeda whispered

"Anyway, I wasn't going to be an embarrassment anymore and decided to work hard towards earning my place here. My classmates may be amazing but that doesn't mean I can't try my best to stand on equal footing. If not for myself...then for the little sister who looks up to me."

A moment of silence passed before Komaeda sighed.

"I know exactly where you're going with this and I've heard it all before. But Naegi-kun, you're wrong. It's typical for commoners to think they can be on-par with Ultimates...however that's just a delusion. In this world, you either have talent or you don't, and those who don't will never measure to those who do...effort is irrelevant." Komaeda's words were filled with resignation. Naegi wondered if Komaeda loved Ultimates as much as he claimed.

Komaeda had lost any semblance of interest in this conversation.  There was nothing Naegi could say that...

"Duh. Everyone knows that." Naegi replied, bewildered. Although, he was strictly speaking relatively. Effort always mattered and Naegi believed even those with talent needed to work hard to make the most of it. Almost everyone in his class worked their butts off to be as good as they are...okay, Kuwata was slightly debatable but even he'd started to practice more often.

"Excuse me?" Komaeda wore a similarly dumbfounded expression.

"I said I would try to be like them, I never said anything about actually succeeding." Naegi laughed. Komaeda didn't.

"I wonder what you think talent and hope really is, Komaeda-kun" The senior student didn't reply...so Naegi continued. "I think Ultimates should be guides in a sense; they're meant to inspire others to reach for greater heights than they thought possible. In turn, we become motivated to pooling our efforts in the right direction. Some might arrive at that destination and others might not, however...absolutely nobody will if they don't make an effort. Talented or otherwise. Hope's peak may have a monopoly on talent but nobody has the right to deny the potential of others."

Komaeda groaned. "That's just it, Naegi-kun. There is no 'some', you will arrive if you have talent. If you don't, then you weren't worthy of being called hope to begin with." Naegi didn't miss how Komaeda used "talent" and "hope" interchangeably.

"I see...do you know who Togami-kun is?"

"Of course, he's the Ultimate Affluent Progeny. I know all the talents in your class. The indomitable Ogami, The illustrious Kirigiri, The enamored Maizono and The charismatic Enoshima." Komaeda would have gone on and on had Naegi not stopped him.

"That's greaaat." He smiled...and then put on a deadpanned expression. "Now I want you to find each one and praise them for accomplishing so much solely because of how supremely talented you think they are. And how they didn't have to work a day in their lives to achieve that."

Komaeda didn't respond to that. He just blinked.

Naegi was glad for that indirect concession. He didn't want to find his new friend to be in a body bag so soon.

"I don't understand your circumstances, Komaeda-kun, but I can't acknowledge a hope that stems from revering talent from afar and cursing yourself relentlessly for not being able to interact with them. If anything, that road leads to despair; it'd be unfair to the Ultimates for you to shove your aspirations onto them without any intention of bearing that weight...and eventually, you'd begin to hate Ultimates even more than you admire them."

Naegi wasn't speaking in hypotheticals anymore. He was addressing Komaeda directly...because the other boy probably did believe this. "That kind of irresponsible hope is definitely wrong. "

Naegi finished, He'd said everything he felt he had to. Whether Komaeda took his words to heart was up to him...

He didn't expect Komaeda to throw himself on the bed, convulsing with laughter.

"You don't have to laugh." Naegi pouted. He hadn't sounded too much like a cheesy self-help guide...he hoped.

"I'm not laughing at you." Komaeda said, as he slowly recovered from his fit. "Naegi-kun. About me staying here...is that offer still on the table?"

Naegi smiled, like a boy whose friend had accepted his invitation to a sleep-over. "I'd be glad to have you. Let's be friends from now on!"

Komaeda lifted an eyebrow at Naegi's advances, as if opting to reject Naegi...but he returned the smile. "Ehehe. Looks I can't beat you at all. If you're alright with me then sure, let's be friends."

The two shook hands.

Whew, and I was afraid he really did hate me for some reason. Glad that wasn't the case. Naegi thought

He checked the time and saw he'd stayed up past an acceptable time-slot. He was going to be exhausted tomorrow..

"Uh, Komaeda-kun. I need to sleep now..."

"Ah, where are my manners. I'll take the floor." Komaeda said.

Naegi wasn't having it, which led to an argument that spanned 10 minutes (seriously!). Naegi had won and convinced Komaeda that they'd share the bed.

"Komaeda." Naegi said, facing away from the other boy.

"Yeah?" Komaeda replied

"Remember how I said anybody in my position would have helped you?"

"...I'd say you're overly optimistic. People aren't as nice you think."

"I'm not so sure. Everyone has the capability to help others...but we have to learn from somewhere. That's why, if you ever find someone who's in trouble, I want you to help them, like I helped you."

"...You want me to pass on that kindness? It’s a good sentiment and I have no issue with your request...however, it shatters the moment someone down the line doesn't reciprocate your goodwill; that's how traditions are lost - the farther away one is from the source, the less attachment they have to it. You're pretty naive if you expect a frail hope like that to help anyone."

"I think you might underestimate humans too much, Komaeda-kun."

"Not Ultimates."

"Ultimates are just humans who happened to receive an admission letter." Naegi gave a cheeky reply.

"...Good night, Naegi."

Oh well...maybe he can learn a thing or two on his trip.  After all, he'll have to deal with non-ultimates there...

Naegi closed his eyes and was off in his dreams within minutes.

...

Nagito Komaeda on the other hand, did not fall asleep. How could he after that?

He turned around, eyes were trained on his bedmate's adorable sleeping form.

Makoto Naegi...what an irritant.

In simple terms, that was an excellent description of how Komaeda felt about his fellow lucky student. Naegi may have only recognized him today but Komaeda had been aware of his existence since he stepped foot on campus.

Like he'd had said earlier, he found Naegi to be a disappointment...only, after several days of intensive observation. From what he could perceive, the extent of Naegi's luck amounted to no more than a can hitting his head from afar, getting his shoelaces untied and constantly misplacing his possessions. Komaeda couldn't fathom what Naegi  was doing at Hope's Peak when his luck was even inferior his own...and yet...and yet, he had found a place among his classmates.

They adored him like he was the center of their world. At first, he had surmised their affection to be mere mockery; Naegi was nothing more than a cute pet they paid attention to...for what else was worth noting about a kid who was just lucky?

Komaeda knew this first hand. His own classmates have scorned him because of his inferior talent...right?...He couldn't remember...but surely they had, they ought to have.

...

...That's right! Souda had once called him a freak of nature, too dangerous to be allowed to run lose. Furthermore, Yukizome-sensei and Nanami-san thought he was a disgrace, that had to be the reason for why they constantly reprimanded him. Even if he might have forgotten them, there were undoubtedly a considerable number of interactions of that nature between him and his class. There had to be. Why wouldn't there be? 

...

Regardless, Komaeda had soon discovered his assumptions of Naegi were wrong. As much as he didn't want to believe it, his classmates treated him not as a pet, but an equal.  It was inconceivable for that average, talentless hack to socialize with his betters and yet they didn't care. To begin with, the academy must have made a mistake admitting him here. Admitting us here.

That's when Komaeda thought of a plan...he'd stalked Naegi long enough to figure out his daily routine. Every school day, there was a certain location at the back of the school building where he'd use to walk to the school dorms. Komaeda decided to set a death trap there.

Well, the death part might be an exaggeration, Naegi (probably) wouldn't have died but the construction pit Komaeda obscured would have greatly wounded him.  To prepare, Komaeda had indulged in self-harm for several days to maximize his good luck on the fateful day he carried out his plan.

Without fail, Naegi would be lured to the hole

Without fail, the academy would have to acknowledge there was nothing lucky about him worth studying.

Without fail, he would regain his peace of mind...

And yet...he failed.

Naegi never showed up that day. Komaeda had waited till nightfall but the younger luckster would never arrive.

It was...impossible, he had thought. Of all days for Naegi not to show up on that path, he'd picked that one. Komaeda didn't care for a reason to explain Naegi's sudden change in routine...because it shouldn't have mattered. Komaeda was lucky. Fate and causality don't take logic or excuses into account. They're efficient, merciless and unfair.

There wasn't a thing in the world that should have excused Naegi from falling that day...not unless he'd somehow beaten Komaeda's own luck. That was the only explanation Komaeda could cope with. He hadn't a shred of evidence of course, but once again, luck didn't need trivial details. There was a beginning and there was an end. The middle was filled with infinite and simultaneously, irrelevant possibilities. Naegi survived and therefore he won.

Komaeda accepted that as fact, and left Naegi alone after that day.

And this very night had proven him correct. Naegi had told him the reason for his absence; Komaeda's plan had taken place on September 12th...most likely the day he'd gone to meet Owada...hahaha...Instead of falling into a deathtrap, he'd gotten off with only a slight concussion.

"Bad luck" he says...haha...what a joke.

Naegi was his better, talent-wise. Komaeda had to put up with that. If the Ultimates and the academy saw him as an equal, then that had to be the truth and Komaeda would treat him as he did all the others. At least, that was the intention but it looks like he couldn't help but scorn the skittish boy...and he was quickly seen through.

...And what came after that, was a lecture.

That dull, average Naegi dared to lecture him on hope...and it was...

simply...

wonderful!

Komaeda had not fully accepted Naegi's words. There was logic to his argument, one stronger than others presented to him by Nanami and Yukizome. That isn't to say they didn't try but the bottom line was that they rejected Komaeda's way of life... and without trying to understand.

To some extent, Naegi had accepted him, and within only a few hours of meeting and with barely any context into Komaeda's personal life. And he had done it in such a beautiful manner. Komaeda could see the hope overflowing from every pore of Naegi's body.

Admittedly, Naegi's words had conviction but they lacked a certain strength. From what Komaeda could see, the younger boy had braved despair once and overcame it with hope.

However,  from an objective viewpoint, it was a weak despair. One that preyed only on himself the worthless masses, and as a result, only a weak hope was born of it. But...Komaeda saw more. He saw potential for a great hope...and nobody knew hope more than him. Hope didn't just spring to life in full bloom, it needed to be cultivated and perfected.

Naegi had the potential to be a great beacon of hope, he just needed the experience...and a trial. With that, perhaps he may one day even become, dare Komaeda say, The Ultimate Hope.

Aaah, how titillating...and how frustrating.

Komaeda loathed his impatience. In his haste, he'd implemented some desperate measures to bring his classmates out of a slump and his actions had granted him an indefinite suspension. He wouldn't be there to give his junior the despair he needed, the despair he deserved. Maybe there's still time...

It was then that Naegi turned in his sleep; he now faced Komaeda with an angelic smile, breathing lightly all the while.

Let's be friends from now on!

Komaeda frowned at the recent memory.

...Was he even needed? Naegi-kun went out of his way to drag him out of that rain and into his room...even when that serial killer was still on the loose.

From what Komaeda heard, some vermin had been preying on students near the area. Rumors say even the reserve course flunkies have fallen victim as well...but no Ultimates have been touched so far.

What a coward, to victimize only the weak - someone like that couldn't even be a worthy stepping stone. The culprit was speculated to be that Genocider Sho character...however the victims at some point began to include a staggering number of women, and that would require a change in Modus Operandi. Thus defeating the point and going against everything that is known about the famed man-slayer.

Heh, the people's stupidity never ceases to amaze.

...His thoughts went off-track again...

Oh right, he was thinking about Naegi.

The murders didn't stop the luckster from expressing his kindness to a complete stranger. What was that, if not hope?

...Whatever, he could think about what do more after a good night's rest. He had a few days to come to a decision and (obviously) no classes to attend.

Komaeda should count his blessings for being in this fortunate position. A week is fleeting but it is far more than he deserves.

Naegi shifted closer. Close enough that his unruly hair nearly brushed against Komaeda's cheeks.

Perhaps he finally understood what class 78 saw in Naegi. And if so, does that mean he's slowly evolving and becoming closer to his beloved Ultimates?

He giggled at the fantasy.

Nagito Komaeda never thought he'd be this glad to have rigged an explosion in a gymnasium filled with innocent people.

Chapter Text

November 15th 2010

Fukawa engrossed herself in reviewing the manuscript for her newest book in a public library somewhere off Hope's Peak. The school had its own library, objectively superior to this one, but it lacked the kind of ambience that inspired her to write. She was more suited to dusty, poorly cleaned facilities.

However...now Fukawa wished she had gone there instead, as she frowned at the rare sighting of a moping Naegi. He found her leaving the school grounds and insisted on tagging along. She might as well have consented to taking the neighborhood stray for a walk.

Fukawa tried to ignore him but it was becoming increasingly difficult with his rampant sighs.

"Ugh, fine. Spit it out." She asked

"Huh?" He said, surprised he was finally being acknowledged.

"You're not jumping around like a 5 year old who j-just had a double dose of sugar and crack. I don't need to be Kyoko "Ice Age" Kirigiri to d-deduce you're unhappy." Not that she cared but she was at least used to Happy! Naegi. When he was down, the atmosphere was disturbing, and she can't work under those conditions.

"My bad. Am I getting in the way?"

"Yes, but talk anyway. Either that or l-leave." Fukawa was always the furthest thing from a charity. She wouldn't start now.

"I'm broke." He said, flatly.

...Seriously? The school funds us 25000 yen a month and he spent it all?...Probably on video games or partying with that oaf Kuwata, no doubt.

"Just ask your parents for cash." Normal children did that right? Her family's circumstances were...unpleasant to say the least. Fukawa would never ask for their help even if it killed her.

"Can't. Too embarrassing." Was his response. "I'm trying to get a job but...things keep happening."

Fukawa broke out into a perverted smirk "W-Working e-even though you're a minor. I didn't think y-you of all people, could be so b-bad."

"I-It's not like working is against the rules or anything!" He said, flustered. Pfft, like he'd read them. Naegi was probably just assuming Hope's Peak is different than all the other schools. Then again...Fukawa hadn't read the rule book to refute that belief either. She should get on that some time.

"If you say so" She mocked. "So, what's the problem. Will nobody hire a l-loser like you?"

Naegi pouted "Something like that. I'm not really sure how but Komaeda got me a few gigs in a really short time...but none of them really worked out."

Gigs? Ugh, he's really is sounding like Kuwata now...hold on.

"Who the hell is Komaeda?" Fukawa's eyes shot up.

Naegi's response wasn't much of one. He was like a deer caught in the headlights...and that was suspicious.

"Uh. just a friend I met recently."

"How recent? I've never seen you h-hanging out with anyone out of the ordinary and you're nowhere near as inconspicuous as you think you are. When you do something, word gets out fast."  She wasn't joking in the slightest. This boy was a magnet for disaster and as a result, he was constantly being looked after. The bottom line is that Fukawa's "sources" haven't mentioned anything about a new friend.

"I'm...not going to comment on why everyone knows about my private life...but there's a reason for why you've never met him-huh?" Naegi trailed off as his eyes drifted behind Fukawa.

The writing prodigy followed and saw nothing out of the ordinary behind her.

"What are you looking at?" Fukawa murmured.

"I could swear that guy was staring in this direction." Naegi directed her focus to the person in question.

Oh, him.

Fukawa hadn't seen anything out of the ordinary, the boy Naegi was referring to came here regularly. At the very least, she'd seen him around a few times at this library.  Usually in the romance section...and that was rare for a guy.

"Y-You're probably seeing things...o-or what, you think you're so great, everyone has to pay attention to you!?" She didn't mean that but said it anyway out of habit. That was her wretched nature.

"Nope. I just thought he might have been glaring at me, but I don't know him at all. Must have been my imagination." Naegi smiled unflinchingly from her harsh provocation.

She couldn't tell if the naive Naegi had understood her implication or simply took it in stride. Both were annoying in their own way.

"Whatever. So how many jobs have you found?" She inquired, steering the conversation back to the original topic.

"Only two; a convenience store and an assistant at an arcade." He said. Simple enough jobs but she could easily imagine him screwing them up.

"Let me guess. You couldn't handle the convenience store because you're a t-total klutz and either made a mess everywhere or broke something he shouldn't have. Which was it?" Fukawa chided him.

"...Both."

And she still underestimated his incompetence. Incredible.

"And the arcade? I have my suspicions but I'd rather hear it from you." He probably caused a machine to malfunction.

"The arcade has a policy that says workers have play to show off the merch. You know, to make the customers feel more invested and think 'that game's pretty cool' or 'hey, I can win that too.'" He went on and on.

"See. I was stuck with a slot machine." Oh boy...it was even worse than she thought. "And I kind of kept getting triple 7s on everything. I think the customers got the wrong idea and thought I'd rigged the machine when none of them ever won. The manager got really mad, even though I didn't do anything wrong."

...Are you lucky or unlucky? Pick one!

"Uh. That sounds awful, really. But y-you've got another thing coming if you think I-I'll give you a pep talk; you have your cheerleader squad of bimbos for that." Naturally, he had no idea who she was talking about. "Everyone has trouble finding employment, don't think you're anything special. I-Instead of feeling sorry for yourself, y-you should be out there and t-trying harder." She reprimanded him with a point of her finger.

Unexpectedly, Naegi broke into a smile.

"...You're right. Thanks, Fukawa-san." He glowed.

Like she could see the rays of sunshine. She can't stand happiness and she wasn't event trying to help, goddamn him!

Thankfully, he ran out of the library not long after. Not like it mattered, as he'd already ruined her concentration. Fukawa packed up her belongings, grumbling over wasted time, all the while.

As she headed towards the exit, a boy brushed against her shoulders and nearly sent Fukawa stumbling down.

"Sorry about that." He said, his hands grabbing Fukawa's own in order to prevent her from falling. It was nothing more than an accident given how apologetic he appeared...Now that she got a better look, this was the boy Naegi said was looking over.

"My name's Shoto. Nice to meet you and--wouldyougooutwithme." He stammered. That last part especially...had she heard wrong?

W-What was this guy saying? From appearances alone, he was shorter than her, bleach-blonde hair, an even more youthful appearance, and a plain school uniform suggesting he was her junior. More importantly, she was Fukawa. Who in the world would find her attractive enough to date?

No. This was suspicious. He didn't even know her.

"T-There must be some mistake. I'll be going now." She said,

"No, I-I'm definitely serious." He gave an embarrassed smile.  It was admittedly cute...she could at least hear him out before telling him to get lost. The second she sensed anything w-weird then she'd leave that instant.

He separated himself not long after and now the two were walking side by side. Judging from his mannerisms, he wasn't overly aggressive or trying to drag her off somewhere...so she could say he wasn't a total creep.

He just had bad taste.

"Truth be told, I've had my eye on you for a while. You're Toko Fukawa, that SHSL writing prodigy, aren't you?" So he knew then...and he was using that old title. He was strange.

"Y-Yes. Is that a problem?" Fukawa replied harshly.

"None. I'm a big fan of your work and-and I always wanted to talk to you." He flustered.

That excuse at least that made more sense than a hot guy approaching her out of nowhere. If he'd learned of her prestige beforehand then she could afford to be slightly less vindictive.

"Was that short guy wasn't your boyfriend/" He frowned a little at that.

"Not a chance. I have some standards." Guess he really was glaring at Naegi. The pieces were falling into place.

"That right?...It's  just that you seemed to smile a bit around him. And I don't think I've seen you that way before." He muttered.

"Y-You're honest to indirectly admit to stalking someone. Don't you know that's a crime?" 

-Somewhere Far Away-

*clank*

A maid rushed over to immediately dispose of a very expensive china.

"Is something the matter, Togami?"  She asked, referring to the cup that fell from the heir's hand. She initially worried the tea wasn't to his liking but the blond's exaggerated countenance suggested a problem far more fundamental and jarring. In fact, she could have sworn to have detected an ominous atmosphere for a moment there. It came and vanished so quickly, a mere servant would have failed to notice, however a maid of her caliber would never mistake raw killing intent.

"I-I'm not sure." He replied with uncertainty.

The silver-haired maid cocked her head in confusion.

"It's just...for a second there, I felt nothing but unbridled rage towards my classmates."

---

"So how about giving me a try?" He proposed with that smile again, one even she had trouble refusing.

But Fukawa had fallen into a trap like this before. She had no intention of making the same mistake twice, no matter how unfair that may sound to the other party. Thus, she rejected him.

"No good, huh? I saw you and that guy earlier and thought I'd give it a shot before someone else snatched you. My bad." He replied. His logic was both bold and desperate. Fukawa would know, for she wrote a scene like that in one of her books, which ended up successful for the protagonist. He better not have pulled that stunt using her work as the source. Romance novels were just fiction; real life isn't nearly that convenient.

Still, If anyone was in the wrong, it's me. Fukawa thought as they walked down an almost desolate road. The sun had almost set.

"There are definitely better girls out there for you. You just have to take one look around a-and I'm sure you'll find someone much better than me." Fukawa wished she was being modest but those were her genuine feelings.

"You're kidding right? None of the girls I know are as cool as you." So he does know some? Figures, he seemed like the type who'd have many friends "Not only are you pretty but you're a great writer. I love all your books."

That had Fukawa stopping. No matter how people felt about her personally, her novels were a different story. Writing was her sole pride and joy and Fukawa wouldn't stand for anybody insincerely referencing them.

"Is that so? Which is your favorite?"

He reached into his backpack and pulled out a novel. Fukawa's breath hitched as she came across the title."Queen's Penance."

"W-Why that one?" She had expected the obvious response; So Lingers the Ocean. That's the story everyone remembers and by far her most acclaimed work. Queen's Penance had been received as mediocre...and she preferred it that way

"I thought the protagonist was really admirable, in spite of the how the novel ended."

"A-Admirable? I know my books are open to interpretation b-but there are limits to the reader's imagination. F-For a petty reason like revenge, she ended up killing a-a lot of people, good and bad. And in the end, s-she does a pointless death in the middle of nowhere, without solving anything." The title Queen's Penance was a play on irony. The protagonist was a prostitute, the lowest status a woman had in the pecking order of society and after killing the loved ones of so many, dies unceremoniously herself and gives nobody closure or retribution. That's why this novel wasn't well received. Critics had taken to labeling the story as overly aggressive, if not borderline sadistic.

No shit. I made it so Rose would be hated.

"You're right, as expected. I can't deny Rose wasn't a good person...but I think it would have been cruel to expect her to be given her circumstances. Even if she couldn't fix her mistakes, she really wanted to." He tightened his lip "Some people in that position would be too far gone to bother with an emotion like regret and would instead, keep ruining lives without a second thought."

She sensed there was a story here but didn't prod further.

 ...If this was a prank, then he was being far too elaborate about it. Even Fukawa wasn't so paranoid to think he'd read that novel just to mess with her...else she might as well doubt all her readers and then where would she be?

"W-We can start as friends, if you'd like." He stuttered.

Was that in response to her rejection. That was pretty pathetic...but she couldn't mock him in the slightest, nobody had that right.

"S-Sure. Your name was Shoto right?"

"Nice, you remembered! My name's Shoto Yukimaru." He beamed. It was an adorable smile comparable to the one Makoto showed. Seriously, what was with some people?

And yet Fukawa couldn't help but smile back. She would see in time if he was genuine..and if he was, then maybe...

"It's really nice being able to talk with someone about books...although, it's also a bit weird to be arguing the moral of the story with the author herself."

"W-What. Too embarrassed to talk about it with your friends?" That was a bit disappointing but neither unexpected or unreasonable of him.

"Not exactly. I'm just afraid the family would find out about my hobbies. And that would be seriously bad news."

"...What kind of parents would overreact to their son r-reading romance?" Did he have one of those Spartan, muscle-obsessed lineages? Then again, he picked her up with ease earlier...and she could tell he was muscular...If nothing else, he could be inspiration for her next novel.

"Not just my parents...you see...I have two families, though I'm not related to them by blood." He said.

They had more and more in common than she thought. "I-I know the feeling. I have messed up parents too." She said, clutching her shoulders from the cold.

The wind was picking up...

Shoto shook his head "Not like that. When I say 'family' I mean the not-so-upstanding bunch. My step-brother, Yukimaru moved out and joined this big gang. I see him and his friends from time-time and they treat me like their own little brother, especially their boss, who I'll tell you, is cool as hell!" He yelled with stars in his eyes.

So he likes romance authors like me and macho delinquent guys? Doesn't seem very picky. Wonder if he'd fall for Owada...now there's a thought, fufufu.

"Fukawa-san, you're drooling!" Shoto unfortunately broke her out of an enticing fantasy.

"Sorry, I k-kind of zoned out there. What about your real family?"

"My own parents died when I was young and the Yukimarus took me in. Even though Takemichi became a gangster, he and I were already part of-"

Before Shoto's sentence reached completion, a strong wind suddenly picked up. That in of itself was nothing worthy of note. However, the effects left Fukawa with a familiar sense of dread. One she attempted to hold it back with all her might. She couldn't let her out. Not here!

"Gh!" Fukawa shut her mouth.

"Are you alright, Fukawa?" The fool poked her shoulder, causing her to lose concentration.

She sneezed.

...

---

"Maid-chan! Take my order." The 'master' called to him.

"C-Coming." Naegi replied to the comment that he, oh so wished was 100% sarcasm. Unfortunately, this was reality and while he wasn't dressed as a maid, his attire wasn't too off it in terms of femininity.

"Here you go, master..." Naegi placed a drink and a coaster on the customer's table. The man in question gazed at him with a grin that could only be described as perverse.

"Say it." He said, intending to enjoy every last bit of the degrading service.

"...Meow."

He broke into laughter.

On this day, Makoto Naegi died a little inside.

Starting from the beginning, Naegi had fallen victim to another of Komaeda's...recommendations. He was to work as a waiter at a costume cafe, which sounded simple enough at the time. Once he arrived however, the manager told him they had a certain standard for their employees. Looking around, Naegi could see the men were tall and in butler outfits while the girls dressed as cute maids. It was one of those cafes.  Naegi predicted he would have been turned away until he felt the manager seriously examining him. The next words she spoke were his downfall: "Actually, you might have an appeal some people could go for."

Fortunately, he wasn't forced to wear a skirt. Unfortunately, he was made to wear a frilly butler costume with fake cat ears and a tail. Was this really the lesser of two evils?

"Naegi! There's another customer at table 10 requesting you. This one's a regular so hustle." One of his co-workers called.

It had been like this all day. He wasted no time and dashed over to the table.

"H-How may I offer my services." He said, head bowing. Naegi's confusion was earned when the customer didn't immediately respond. He brought his head up and crossed eyes the very last person in the world he wanted to meet right now.

What was she doing here!? Whyyyyyyy!?

Celestia Ludenberg postured herself immaculately in front of Naegi. And with grace and derision to match, she just barely touched her chin with her scarlet colored nail and uttered the dreaded words.

"How cute."

"W-W-W-W-W-W-" Naegi stammered

"Before you proceed to humiliate yourself any further, please consider where we are and your current station." She had already predicted the impending outburst...and quite likely saved him from embarrassment.

"Let me read your thoughts; 'Why of all places, are you here?'.  And if I must answer that, then I'll simply admit to being a frequent customer at this establishment. This cafe is hardly up to my pristine standards but until I have enough money to reach my lifelong objective, I'll have to settle." Celestia offered a smile.

Naegi felt all the energy leave him. "Please don't tell anyone." Was his only request.

"And why not?"

"Because I'll die, socially, emotionally...and physically." Naegi pleaded.

"That makes two of us. I fear I may meet a quick demise...laughing at your expense when I tell everyone. I believe even my life is a worthy sacrifice for sharing this sight with the others." Celeste responded with a false passion.

He expected this the moment he caught sight of the gambler. This was Celeste, who wouldn't do anything without managing cost-benefits. In other words...

"What do you want?" Naegi groaned in defeat

"You. My personal servant. For one day. At a time of my convenience." Celes made her terms known.

"Deal." Naegi accepted.

"Ah, what a splendid day this is...for me at least. What are you even doing here? I wasn't aware you were an employee."

Naegi explained his circumstances just as he did for Fukawa earlier.

"I see...but if I were you, I'd pass on this place and seek find new employment."

"Why? It's not that bad."

"Naegi. You just agreed to be my manservant for 24 hours, all because I caught you in the act. I daresay, you're just asking for trouble."

Naegi had to concede she had a point. Before he could argue back, a group of female customers were already calling him

"Hey, come serve us already!"

"And you appear to be quite popular in that getup. At this rate, word will get out by the end of the week and our deal won't even matter. And nobody wants that~" Celestia smirked at his expense.

Yet another good point.

He was going to give Komaeda a earful when he got back...

Naegi looked outside the window to see droplets of rain rolling down the windows. Tis the season...and he was going to go have to walk back to the dorms in that, and without an umbrella

He sighed...Oh well, he couldn't complain too much

Someone out there is probably having an even worse day than I am.

Chapter Text

Naegi took shelter under a large tree stationed some distance away from the school. He rubbed his arms together to protect himself from the cold, which had reached to the point where he could see his own breath.

He sighed

The good news? He was thankfully in his own clothes again. The bad news? They were now soaked from the rain. Without an umbrella, he was forced to brave the weather with only his hoodie to shield him. It wasn't as bad as it sounded because Naegi, for reasons he nor anyone else has never once contemplated, loved to wear stacks of clothing. If it weren't for a serious chance of a heatstroke, he'd put on at least 6 layers.

Naegi's plan so far on the way back to his dorms was to take shelter when the rain hit hardest and advance when it let up. Once  within walking distance of the school, he chose to wing it and run the full distance. Sadly, he was quickly reminded of exactly why it was a stupid idea to run on wet terrain -  He tripped over himself and fell. 

"Ow. Ugh, gross." He could barely hear his own voice amidst the rainfall...but he certainly tasted that clump of dirt he just spat out.

Naegi quickly stood up, scanned his environment and found he was near the science wing. The building would be closed at this time so fat chance hiding there. Instead, Naegi did what he thought would be the next best thing; leaning by the fence barricading the generator on all sides. He was drawn to the contraption thanks to its heat and the thin cover provided by the hood of the roof.

He'd done a poor job of wiping the mud off his face given his hands were also draped in the dirt. Realistically, he should have seen the inevitability of falling on his face coming considering he was poorly coordinated at most things...

The storm was getting worse...but Naegi's desperate need for a shower and sleep, won out. The male dorms was only a few minutes away and it was almost curfew. By all means, he couldn't risk wasting time here.

Naegi ventured back into the rain, choosing to speed-walk rather than run this time. In hindsight, Naegi giving into his haste had been a wide decision...because a moment later, a bolt of lightning struck down the general area around where he previously stood.

Naegi froze; for a moment he saw nothing but white and his eardrums reeled from the crack of thunder. He stared at the scene in abject terror; the concrete had shattered, the fence lit aflame even in the rain...and the generator wasn't much better off - - The device looked damage beyond repair and evidently, it's destruction had caused a blackout.

It was at that moment Naegi decided to run for it. Not only because staying here was dangerous but the last thing he wanted was to be caught and somehow be held responsible for the power outage or damaged property. 

Leave it to me to attract lightning!

---

"I'm disappointed you didn't come over." An enthusiastic male voice came though the land phone in Naegi's room.

"Ahaha, my apologies, Akio-san. I just couldn't refuse a friend." Komaeda laughed

"...A friend, you say? How rare." His tone was cheerful however, also denoted disbelief.

"I know. For someone to take an interest in trash like me is truly miraculous."

"...Nagito." 

"Understood, I'll behave." Komaeda conceded to the stern warning.

"You're a smart kid, anyone would be your friend if you simply let them. But you haven't called anyone that in years...and this Naegi broke through that thick skull of yours?"

"Absolutely. He may not seem like much at first but I'm certain there's a powerful hope that sleeps inside him!" Komaeda replied, giddily.

"'May not seem like much?" Isn't he one of those Ultimates you adore so much?" The older man carried the conversation casually, as if Komaeda's eccentricities were perfectly normal.

"Somewhat. He's the Ultimate Lucky Student, like me." He wasn't comfortable with labeling Naegi as just lucky but that was the truth...for now.

"And you don't have issues with his character in spite of his *chuckle* useless talent?" The last two words sounded as if they were recited, likely as an attempt at mockery.

"Yes!" But Komaeda took no insult.

"Then I'll admit to being intrigued. And I've been looking for help recently, your timing is impressive as always."

"You'll hire him?"

"Hahaha, why do you sound surprised? If the son of my dear friend is offering their only friend a recommendation, the least I can do is give him a chance."

"As expected of you, boss. You didn't even consider the immorality of letting a minor work at a bar!" Komaeda said in admiration.

"Ahahahahaha. Is that how kids joke nowadays?...If you were anyone else, I'd beat the life out of you."

"Got it." Komaeda said, mock saluting.

"So, you're leaving tomorrow?"

"Yes, my first stop is Italy."

"Italy. Now that brings back memories, the women especially...learn something on the trip, if you can. I'd also warn you to stay out of trouble but I'm too old to start wishing for the impossible."

"Aren't you only in your 40s?" Komaeda asked, puzzled.

"When you carry as many burdens as I do, you'd feel old at 20." 

"Fair enough."

"...Back to the Naegi business. What has he been in for?"

"Excuse me?"

"His record. Anything major I should know about?"

"You misunderstand. Naegi's just a regular person." Komaeda clarified.

"I never thought I'd see the day when you could speak of ordinary civilians without a hint of spite ever again...now I'm really interested. But, if he doesn't have a record, things might be difficult for him."

"He can handle it." And I'm sure this will serve as a fine trial for Naegi as well.

"If he agrees to it then-"

The call cut off, as did the lights and electronics in the room.

A blackout...Komaeda would call back but he didn't have a cell phone, mainly because he didn't have any friends or major contacts to speak of. 

He'd leave to check things out but then he'd be at risk of getting beat up by his classmates. Komaeda would rather avoid pain if he could, however he didn't particularly mind being used as a tool for his betters to relieve their stress. The problem was Naegi had gone to fairly notable lengths to watch for his safety and Komaeda couldn't spit on those efforts, even if that meant not stepping out for 5 whole days. 

On that note, Naegi forgot to take an umbrella...Oh well, something like a little rain shouldn't be enough to bring Naegi-kun down.

Suddenly, the power came back on and even brighter than he remembered. The school must have used the backup generator.

Shortly after, the man of the hour came crashing into the room and...he had seen better days. Komaeda referred to how Naegi was dripping in water from head to toe and dirty all over.

"Yo." Komaeda greeted

"Not the time. Shower. Then bed." Komaeda chuckled as the boy brushed right passed him.

"How'd 'it' go?"

Naegi responded with loud groaning.

That answers my question.

Komaeda hummed to himself and flipped through pages of Ultimate files while waiting for Naegi to get out of the shower. He was especially interested in the 79th class, students soon to be admitted in the following months. Naturally, a student wasn't permitted to view these documents but lucky for him, he just happened to stumble on them one day. No breaking or entering involved. Nope.

Naegi returned, still in a sour mood.

"Aw, don't be too bummed out. I found you another employer." Komaeda stared

Naegi stared at him distrustfully.

"No need to glare at me so much, I'm 100% sure this will be a success." He said with a wave of the hand.

"That's what you said about all the others." Naegi wiped his unruly hair with a towel.

"No I didn't."

"You implied it."

"...Whatever you say. But this time really is different; actually I had to call in a favor from one of my mother's closest friends. He's like a relative to me so I know for a fact this time will work out."

"A relative?" Naegi wouldn't refuse after hearing that. It'd make Komaeda lose face in front of family.

It was so magnanimous of him to care so much about garbage like me. 

"..Okay, maybe I'll trust you this one last time." Naegi gave in.

"It'd be the last time either way. Unfortunately, I'll be leaving tomorrow morning." Komaeda corrected him

"Oh." Naegi's face dropped. "W-When will you be back?" He asked, hopefully.

"Uh, not for another year, at least." Komaeda was sure he'd said that already.

"Oh." Naegi repeated himself and slumped onto a seat.

"I'm not sure why you're down at the prospect of trash like me being taken off your hands but you're in good hands with Akio-san."

"Who's that?"

"Your new boss. You'll get to know all about him soon."

"That's rare. You speaking highly about someone, He must be an Ex-Ultimate."...Why does everyone ask him this?

"He is not..." This was the first time Naegi had seen Komaeda act...conflicted.

...The younger luckster put on a triumphant smirk as he realized the source of the older boy's dismay.  "Ha! You do think ordinary people can be worth something."

"Argh, not like that. Akio-san is definitely talented enough to be an Ultimate. Hope's Peak simply made a mistake." Komaeda knew he was whining but there was no other explanation. There were more than a few individuals in the world fit to be Ultimates even if they weren't scouted. Hope's Peak was beyond compare...but they weren't omniscient.

"What's he like?" Naegi didn't bother to argue.

"Hmm, a bit of a schemer and kid on the inside; not the type of person you should let your guard down against, if you want to get on his bad side. He was also the person who took me in for a while after my parents died."

Naegi's expression indicated he had a 1000 questions and struggled to ask any. "He's your foster-father then?"

Komaeada shook his head "I wasn't special since he took care of other kids too, like a small orphanage. That guy is always helping others, even undeserving ones like myself and the common people...but I suppose that too can be hope."

Naegi tilted his head. 

"What's wrong? You have something to say?" Komaeda wondered

"It's just that...If you were taken in by a person who cares indiscriminately like that, I'm surprised you hate non-ultimates so much." Naegi said uncomfortably, as if trying to find the right words and not hurt Komaeda's feelings. It wasn't necessary, Komaeda knew he was a hypocrite...but Naegi's also mistaken about something.

"You've got that wrong, Naegi. I do not dislike the talentless. I just pity them for their impotence." He clarified. Naegi looked ready to debate that point further before stopping himself.

"You shouldn't be so reserved, Naegi-kun. I would love to hear another hopeful spiel." It'd give him some good memories to take on the way.

"No, and I think it would defeat the point if you goad me into giving those...Instead, I'm trying to figure you out." Naegi said, pensively.

"I wouldn't call myself enigmatic enough for that. With me, what you see is what you get, Naegi-kun." Komaeda gave a smile, ever so much thinner than the others. 

"...That's definitely untrue. I don't think you're a bad person by any stretch of the imagination, even if you're a little extreme. I guess I'm just getting mixed signals." Naegi brought a finger to his chin. He had noticed recently that the albino did not appreciate others reading him, whether he was conscious of it or not.

"Say Komaeda, if you found an ordinary person who looked like they needed help, would you lend a hand?" He asked.

"That depends on the kind of help. It's bothersome to handle trivial details but since it's me, I'd screw up the major problems and make things worse than they were before."

"But would you want to help?" Naegi reiterated.

Komaeda shrugged "I suppose. No harm in it."

"Okay...so what if you found an everyday person getting bullied by an Ultimate?" Naegi proposed.

"...That would depend on the reason." Komaeda ruminated.

"How would you decide on what's a legitimate excuse?" 

"I don't believe I'm qualified to be the final judge but...in my personal opinion, I wouldn't take issue with an ultimate sacrificing the weak to further their own talents and goals. The world is a zero-sum game after all."

Naegi frowned.

"Although...there is no hope to gain from harming the weak. A person who preys on the masses for worthless reasons like pleasure or impulse could never be worthy of being called an Ultimate." Komaeda's eyes narrowed.

"And what would you do if you came across such a person?" The brown-haired boy watched Komaeda with brilliant innocence.

What a silly question 

"I'd stop them. I wouldn't stand for anyone besmirching the name of hope." He smiled.

--- 

Jin Kirigiri was a smart man, a talented man and above all, he was a very patient man. Some say those attributes were what allowed Jin to qualify as headmaster of the most prestigious educational institution in the world. The man would argue most of it was child's play, the real difficulty lied not in management but in the never-ending trials that sought to shred the last scraps of his sanity; paperwork was easy, finances were slightly more difficult but ultimately manageable, thanks to the reserve department. A lesser man would have handed in their letter of resignation within the first week of tracking the oddities known as the SHSL students. 

Now that was true hell. He had nothing but admiration for the former headmaster, who lead the school for several decades...but Jin knew he couldn't afford to rest either. It was only a few days ago where a fiasco took place in the gym, which resulted in the expulsion of three promising students. Arguably a 4th...but Jin had no evidence to tie Nagito Komaeda to the scene, therefore the boy was let off with an indefinite suspension. However, Jin was no fool and his detective skills weren't inferior to his daughters; he could have fingered the Lucky student as the culprit in his sleep.

And that's not because Komaeda himself admitted it within mere seconds of his questioning, definitely not as that'd be crazy. If, on the very improbable...implausible chance Komaeda had confessed, then Jin would be forced to expel him and that would have been a waste of talent the school greatly relies on. Jin personally considered the research of luck to be a promising prospect and losing Komaeda would be an irrecoverable setback. That's why Komaeda had confessed absolutely nothing. Nor will he ever.

...Yeah it's been a rough week. And it didn't look to be getting any better...

He felt like having a nice drink to celebrate his hard work and should should hit the city one of these days as a reward.

"Have you been listening to a word I've said, Jin!?" A senior man with grey, balding hair called out to him. He was one of the Steering committee members, who were evidently wrought with anger over their pet project's failure.

"Yes, I'm hanging on your every word."

"You had better, we're in a state of crisis-" The committee member's voice was soon drowned out by much more important matters.

Should I order Manhattan or Tequila? Wait, this is Japan, do we even serve brands of those cocktail? Kizakura would know; about the only thing he's good for.

"-process was interrupted 70% of the way and we have discovered...complications. Curse that confounded blackout; why didn't you pay for a sturdier generator!?" Why would you perform such an important experiment on the night of a thunderstorm? Do none of you people watch the weather channel?

"I'll get right on that." Jin said, half-heartedly, which didn't go well with the other man.

"So, what happened to the experiment? I expect the subject was unharmed." The headmaster narrowed his eyes. It mattered not if the old men were his superiors. When it came to the students, main course or reserve, Jin wouldn't stand for the endangerment of their lives. They were his responsibility.

"Don't presume that tone with me. The specifics of the project are none of your concern!"

"Then...why are you here?" Jin raised an eyebrow.

The old man froze and then faked a cough. Oh, that didn't sound good.

"...scaped."

D-Did he hear that wrong? 

"I-I'm sorry but I must have blacked out for a second. Could you please repeat that?"

"Izuru Kamukura has escaped and is currently missing."

Ah. It was going to be one of those days. Looks like that night out is moving up on the schedule as we speak...I really should invite Kizakura too. A few drinks will do us both some good.

"I see. And what will you be doing to remedy the situation?" Jin asked.

"Are you a fool!? We have no time for that. You must secure him, as fast as possible." Typical, leave me to clean up your mess. Forget the students, these men were the real headache.

"Very well. But as I'm sure you're aware? I have no idea what Izuru Kamukura looks like, nor the extent of his capabilities and none of the men who work under me do either. You've kept this project completely under wraps." He would praise them for that alone. They barely left any traces. Even Yukizome's been having a difficult time snooping around...whoops, he wasn't supposed to know about that. That girl was adorable, thinking she could pull one over on him.

"Fine, I will give you the dossier. However, they are for your eyes alone." 

"...You want me to search alone?"

"You are a detective, are you not?"

"Former detective. My skills aren't exactly what they used to be." They were better but he didn't need to know that.

The board member frowned. "In that case, you must pick only a handful of others, and they must be absolutely trustworthy. Even you must understand what will happen to the school if vital information about the project were to be leaked to the public."

Jin nodded. He was going to have a surprise for Kizakura.

"Then I leave the rest to you." The Committee member stood up and exited the room.

For a few moments, Jin sat, composed and with his eyes closed, until he eventually stood up as well. He turned around and with an unreadable expression, placed one hand on the large window that conveyed the school grounds several feet below. 

Jin Kirigiri was a smart man, a talented man. He was also a very patient man.

And so his eyes snapped open

But lord almighty, did those sons of bitches test that patience! Retire already, you incompetent shits!

Those words, he wanted to scream to the heavens...but Jin was an adult, and he would handle himself with the maturity of one.

He deeply sighed, and then turned back to his desk, staring blankly at the file left in his care. Nobody could ever find about this, or it could irreparably damage the school's reputation. Or, at the very least, the ones in charge would have to take the blame. Which would probably be him unless...unless...

Jin blinked for a few moments...and then came face to face with an important treasure planted on top of his desk.

Now there's an idea...First things first though.

The land phones were likely bugged, so the headmaster used his cellphone and dialed the number of his most trusted, reliable friend. Who, might he add, was ever-so-committed to his duties as a teacher.

"Kizakura?"

"Yo." 

"Manhattan or Tequila?"

"...What?"

"Answer the question."

"Alright, I probably have no right to ask of this of anybody but...are you drunk, Jin?"

"What? No, don't be ridiculous. I'm simply coping after having recently exceeded the conceptual limitations of anger and frustration."

"...The Steering committee screwed the pooch again, didn't they?"

"Yup."

"And they've stuck you on janitor duty...again?"

"Man, you are good at this scout thing. I almost forgot why I keep you around."

"Because I took a wicked photo of you and your daughter?"

Oh right, that's why. Jin's attention turned to the frame on his desk; a photo of him carrying a happy a little girl.

"As for the important questions? Definitely Tequila."

"Really?"

"Don't fight me on this, man. I'm the alcoholic."

"Fair point. See me in my office in say...30 minutes?"

"Sure."

Jin dropped the call and motioned to pick up the photo.

Now then, the old man did say he was allowed a 'handful' of subordinates on this case, so he was permitted to have more help than Kizakura. His other choice would also be under his complete discretion, as long as it was someone trustworthy...but never specified who they'd be loyal to.

He dialed the only other number on speed dial.

"...Who is this?" A feminine voice called out.

"It's me." Jin replied, with a smile. 

"...How did you get this number?" She said after a time.

What a silly question.

"I'm the headmaster and more importantly, your father. Now what do you say to having lunch together, Kyoko?"

Chapter Text

 November 16th 2010

Naegi accompanied Komaeda to the school gates where they'd first met. Komaeda spent most of their walk trying to stop Naegi from sulking, and to no avail.

"Come on, Naegi-kun. I won't be gone that long. Though I can't understand why you'd be bothered even if trash like me disappeared forever."

"Right there. What you said at the end. That's the problem." Naegi whined. "I'm worried because you're probably going to end getting mixed up in something crazy. And if it's not by accident, it'll be on purpose!"

Komaeda had told Naegi stories of his childhood, much to Naegi's horror. The albino may not have though much of absurdities like meteors or kidnappings but Naegi couldn't get a wink of sleep.

Someone who doesn't understand the concept of self-preservation shouldn't be allowed to travel alone!

"I'll be fine.  And well, even if something does happen to me, it just means I was unlucky." Komaeda said, without pause.

Naegi thought that nonchalance and fearlessness of his was both worrying and kind of cool in a way. Could anything scaring him?

...Why was he even hiding again? 

"KOMAEDA!" Thus, one of life's great questions was answered then and there as the manifestation of rage appeared before the lucky students.

"Kuzuryu-kun, nice day, isn't it?" Komaeda politely addressed the short male who held onto his knees, catching his breath.

"Finally...I've finally fucking found you. Get ready, you son of a bitch!" He said, out of breath.

"...W-Were you searching for me this whole time?" Even Komaeda was taken aback. There's no way that could be true.

"Yes! I mean, No! Shut the fuck up!"

"Alright then, I just wanted to clear up any misunderstandings. Then are you hear to see me off? I don't think I can handle such generosity from y-"

"I said shut the fuck up!  You know goddamn well what I'm here for." Kuzuryu finally regained his composure

"But Kuzruryu-kun, The gym had to be blown up; it was all for hope!"

It was at this point that Naegi began to have immense difficulty following this conversation and opted for pretending he didn't hear that last bit. And the two had all but forgotten his presence to boot.

"The fuck does hope matter when we're 6 feet under!? Like hell am I letting you take one step out of this school before I get the chance to kick your ass, you terrorist!"  Kuzuryu brandished a pair of brass knuckles while Komaeda looked ready to run; smiling to himself all the while as if preparing for a game of tag.

"J-just a second." Naegi stepped between them with his arms spread out and legs shaking. He'd reacted before he could think.

"There it is, that splendid hope!" "Who the hell are you!?" Komaeda and Kuzuryu said respectively.

Kuzuryu's charge stopped...for a moment "Ah what the heck, If you want to sign up for the same lesson I'll teach him, then be my guest." 

The angered teen was ready to charge at Naegi, before a karate chop made contact with his head.

"No fighting." A girl even smaller than both of them interfered. She wore a blue cat-like sweater and gave off the impression of someone in a constant daze.

"Not now, Nanami." Kuzuryu muttered, scratching his hair. In spite of his protest...he had already placed his weapons away.

"What do you think you're doing? We should be seeing Komaeda-kun off, not causing trouble." She said.

"Is that true, Nanami-san? You've come all this way just for me?"

"I guess...but first, where are you gonna go, Komaeda?" She tilted her head.

"If all goes well, I'll stop by Sicily first." Komaeda giggled.

"Tch, Good luck with that crap. I've had just about as much of Italians that I can stand." Kuzuryu spat on the ground.

"Heeey, who's that there with you?" Nanami drew out her syllables as her attention shifted towards me.

"Was asking the same thing." Kuzuryu chimed in

"I'm-" Naegi began.

"Hold on a sec." Kuzuryu silenced Naegi by grabbing unto his shoulders and lightly pushing back until the luckster stood besides Komaeda. Kuzuryu then stepped back next to Nanami - His eyes drifted between Naegi and Komaeda with trepidation.

"Oi...don't they...kind of look the same?" The freckled boy said, a notable hint of fear in his tone

"I sorta see what you're getting at but I think Komaeda-kun's an only child." Nanami corrected him. "But there is a resemblance. Komaeda looks like he evolved into a ghost-type."

"Nanami-san's right, he's not my little brother. He's the junior Ultimate Lucky Student, Makoto Naegi." Komaeda laughed as he attempted to assuage Kuzuryu

"Jesus Christ! Two of them!? This school isn't big enough for two Komaedas, this bloody country isn't!" Komaeda's words evidently had the opposite effect on Kuzuryu. It didn't look like he'd be calming down soon. 

My feelings are starting to get a little hurt...especially with how serious Kuzuryu was being.

"Um, again, I kinda see what you're getting at...only Komaeda's leaving for a little while so it'll just be one again. Aren't you overreacting a bit?" Nanami asked.

"'A little while' and not 'forever' is the issue. Just because the apocalypse aint happening for months doesn't mean I won't shit myself worrying for when it does."

Nanami sighed. "I think he'll be short-circuiting for a bit. He's Fuyuhiko Kuzuryu, the SHSL Yakuza and I'm Chiaki Nanami, the SHSL Gamer. Nice to meet you, Naegi-kun." The pinkette walked up to him and offered to shake his hand.

"Likewise." He grasped it. After the introduction, Nanami faced Komaeda, who creepily watched their interaction with glee.

"By the way, Komaeda-kun." The gamer reached into her bag and brought out a wrapped box. "A little farewell gift, for now at least. That has all my favorite games inside."

"N-N-N-Nanami-san. Those are your treasures! You can't just give that to me." Komaeda panicked.

"It's fine, because I'm not giving them away. I'm only lending the games to you so be sure to return them when you come back."  She shoved the box into Komaeda's hands.

The white haired boy was about to argue back until he heard his name called.

"Big bro Komaeda's over there. Get him!" " "Komaedaaaa, I'm going to rip you to shreds. Oraaaa" "Gyaha, better run or Ibuki's gonna strangle you, Nagi-chan." Naegi turned to the sound of angry yells coming their way. The mob of students were stampeding towards their direction. Although they were still quite a ways off, if Komaeda didn't start running...

"This is bad! Uh, forgive me for dashing off like this but I'll be fleeing for my life now, Nanami. I'll tell you all about the trip when I get back, if you're interested." Komaeda squealed and looked ready to split "Oh, Naegi-kun. I'll definitely repay the kindness you've shown me, that's a promise."

"Oh...okay. Till then." Naegi glumly waved at the retreating Komaeda.

"See ya." Nanami said, imitating the brown haired boy.

"Oi wait, you moron."  Kuzuryu recovered a little too late.

"Goddammit, Catch!" The yakuza drew a phone out of his pocket and hurled it at  the menace of class 77. Komaeda caught it with ease before sprinting off.

"Damn, he got away." A tall, tan-skinned girl said.  The others finally caught up.

To Naegi, the gangster's words were contradictory. If he disliked Komaeda as much as he claimed, he wouldn't have given him a way to remain in contact. Even the rest who were fervently giving chase moments ago seemed a bit down.

"...Komaeda-kun has a lot of friends, huh." Naegi said, drawing the attention of class 77.

"Who the hell are you calling his friend!?"

---

He was in a bad mood.

Well, not bad  but he was certainly disappointed. Komaeda couldn’t have imagined he’d feel such dismay after a wondrous farewell to Nanami and the others. But in a way, his newfound disappointment had been a result of his own doing.

Komaeda journeyed through the back alleys of the Mirai district. A large section of the city that was...in an ideological sense, isolated for the rest; that segregation was because the residents here had something in common.

Naegi-kun would likely be making quite a few trips here from now on. I wonder how he'll adapt.

Why had he taken such an obscure route to the airport? It was simple; Nagito Komaeda was adventurer and thrill-seeker by heart. He had unshakable faith in his ability to attract fortune and misfortune in extreme qualities. For example, he was once kidnapped by some no-name scum as a child and dumped in the garbage after his captor realized he wasn't getting paid. As if anyone would have raised a finger to save him...at the time. What's worth noting about that encounter is that Komaeda wasn't exactly faultless in his own kidnapping. He'd wandered the streets that night alone, wondering...hoping that some significant fate would befall him. Komaeda didn't care if it turned out to be good luck or bad luck, he just needed something to relieve his pain boredom. As time went on, he'd made that behavior a habit, even at Hope's Peak and he never failed to stumble onto something interesting. The rarer the circumstance and location, the better.

Akio-san and Naegi-kun weren't lying when he said I'd end up looking for trouble.

Even before his flight, Komaeda entertained his habit. Mainly because something was bound to occur the moment before his departure. That's how bad luck works, right before an important event, he'd be sabotaged at a critical moment and vice versa for good luck. 

But he regretted that decision. He found no treasure or even some meaningful misfortune…just rotting meat even filthier than garbage lying around and now he couldn’t the smell off him.

It wasn’t like Komaeda was unaccustomed to that scent.  He'd been first introduced to it on that fateful day at the airport, then experienced it occasionally at Akio-san's place. But he'd forgotten after a few years of normalcy.

The sight was no less disappointing than it always was.

Komaeada had walked nearly half-an hour until he found an exit onto the main street. With people frolicking and cars deadlocked in traffic. It was like he was in a completely different place.

He sighed. Crowds weren't his idea of pleasant...unless they were Ultimates. But then he'd be liable to suffer a stroke at being surrounded by so much hope!

The lucky student found stairs that led to a bridge. He sought higher ground, where the crowd would be thinner. 

It was there that something...or rather someone caught his attention. No sooner than Komaeda reached the end of the steps did he feel drawn to anther’s presence.  Several meters to the left, a person of unknown gender stood on the side-walk, gazing down at the world below the bridge.

Suddenly Komaeda's eyes widened and his nose twitched.

Komaeda was an adventurer...and therefore he had a sense for value. Talent, hope and even despair; at a glance, he could get a sense of how valuable a person was by weighing them on those scales. That he was immediately drawn to this individual meant they possessed one of those qualities. Thus Komaeda approached them with an almost uncontrollable curiosity.

"Hello." He greeted the person, who then cast him a sidelong glance. Even at close-proximity, the person's gender was indiscernible. They had long hair and an androgynous face...at least, the side of the face Komaeda could see, indicated that. Their mouth was covered by a mask and stranger still,  they were dressed in military garbed.

The sun was setting and dyed the scenery a bright orange. Subsequently, it accentuated their image.

...Wait, I recognize him .

 "Greetings. May I help you?" His tone neutral and devoid of confrontation.

"I happened to notice you on the way over. It's not common for someone to occupy a spot on the bridge, aren't you scared? Ah, if you were contemplating suicide by jumping of here, I would advise against that; you'd probably feel a lot of pain before you died or might even kill someone else on the way down. ahaha.”

"Kukuku. That's an interesting sense of humor, but no, I try not to entertain pointless thoughts like obsessions over one’s mortality." He laughed along with Komaeda. Although the conversation progressed smoothly (which in itself was nothing short of odd for the socially inept Komaeda), he noticed the stranger's eyes analyzing his every move.

"But, I could say the same of you, sir." The other man began. "Judging by your luggage and the direction you’re coming from…I would wager you are on your way to the airport...why then, did you take this route? You'll be set back by several minutes, even accounting for traffic."

"I felt like taking a detour. To enjoy the scenery before I left town on a vacation around the world." Komaeda crossed his arms.

"Oh? Then I must have been mistaken." He replied. Komaeda raised his eyebrow at the implied provocation.

"It's just that I happened to notice you on the way as well. It's hard to miss one with an appearance such as yours crawling out of an alley way. Although, what truly captured my interest was the expression that crossed your face once you left; it was the absolute picture of disgust for your surroundings." He tipped his hat. "Combine that with going out of your way to come here...and I can only presume you have a strong dislike of people."

"I would disagree. After all, I'm talking to you right now, aren't I?" Komaeda replied, arms folded.

"So you are. Then perhaps I should say, you have a strong dislike of certain categories of people. You seem to be fairly sensitive to the nature of others, given you've already noticed I've been observing you more deeply than the average person."

Komaeda's shook ever so slightly.

"You left a tell. Your body stiffened fairly early into our conversation. Most would have carried on normally but that you reacted also meant you realized I was different from the norm. Knowing that, I cannot believe you approached me without an inkling as to who I am." He explained.

It took all of Komaeda's restraint to cover his mouth and close his eyes. The former in an attempt to stall the laughter that would seep out had another word been said and the latter to hide the swirling of his eyes.

"An odd reaction. Is that your way of conceding?” He said.

"Nope, you're more or less correct. As expected of you to know so much and with such little information. You truly are worthy of the title Ultimate Anthropologist, Korekiyo Shinguji-san.”  Komaeda said, stretching his arms wide.

Shinguji expressed (mild) shock as he finally turned his full attention on the luckster. Time had stopped now for all but them.

"Oh my. My my my my my. To think you knew of me to such an extent. Am I correct to believe our meeting here was no coincidence?" Shinguji took on a defensive stance

"Nope, it was perfectly coincidental. These things happen." Komaeda on the other hand, appeared no less amiable.

"...You expect me to go along with that lie?"

"You should, as I would never lie to another Ultimate. It was coincidence...because I am the Ultimate Lucky Student, Nagito Komaeda."

"...Luck? That is a talent?" Shinguji asked skeptically.

"Yes. On second thought, you don't have to believe me. I can just show you."

Komaeda reached into his luggage and brought out the file of Ultimates. He selected two: both his and Shinguji's and held them up for the latter's eyes to see.

"Kukuku, it appears you speak the truth. But now I'm curious in the opposite direction. What is a student at Hope's Peak academy doing with what I must assume is classified information?"

"Must I say it again? I am Lucky."

"...So you are. We both appear to know one another in detail, we might as well already be acquaintances." Shinguji regained his earlier composure...only this time, he observed Komaeda with immense fascination.

"It does seem that way..." The green hoodie looked at the streets below them, following the direction of Shinguji's previous line of sight. "What were you looking at by yourself?"

With the bustling activity, it could have been anything...

"Exercising my talent. I take some degree of pleasure in bird watching."

"...Bird watching?" Komaeda asked.

"Yes. Before I studied humans, my interest was animals. Observing how they thought and reacted to varying stimuli was a delight." Shinguji said, with a finger raised. 

Komaeda did indeed see birds, they flocked around one of the less crowded parts near the area he was focused on. They fought greedily over the seeds being fed to them.

"Alas, I soon eventually grew somewhat bored of them. Animals are a treat but their patterns of behavior are both repetitive and base...they lack the fluidity and passion humans do."

Komaeda's eyes drifted up the scene as he did. His attention was now captured by a teenage girl feeding the birds.

"You see, Komaeda-san. In this world, I believe there is nothing more beautiful...nor wretched than the human soul. The force that can drive anyone to attain the status of a saint, a demon or even the reverse depending on the context...I cannot express the elation it brings me to observe them in action." Shinguji proceeded to...hug himself.

"Oh?" Komaeda said, eyes still not leaving the girl. "I'm not quite sure about that, most souls are probably worthless."

"Hm, it appears I was correct about your distaste for others. A shame."

I don't dislike them...no matter "I do not see the worth in average, ordinary people. Were you to be were referring to Ultimates, then I could understand perfectly. The magnificent splendor of their hope. Now that is a sight I would never get tired of." Komaeda sighed lovingly.

"I see. A xenophobic approach; you perceive others as beneath us merely because of talent. Unfortunate but I suppose that is not an uncommon belief." Shinguji sounded somewhat disappointed.

"You've got that wrong, Shinguji-san. There is no 'us', the only one worth revering here is you."

"...Come again?"

"Luck is no proper talent. If it were possible, I would doubtlessly give up my life if it could grant meaning in aiding those blessed with true talent. It's arrogant of me to say but I believe every human on this Earth wants to be significant in their own right, misguided though we are." Komaeda tirades.

"I'm growing understand you. This has been an illuminating conversation...and if you were a woman, you may have been worthy to be a friend of my sister's...On second thought, worthy might be an exaggeration…but your peculiarities would at least have made you worth considering." Shinguji said vaguely.

Komaeda didn't understand what he meant but that the man didn't elaborate implied he wouldn't even if asked. This was someone who kept his cards close to his heart.

The girl Komaeda had been observing giggled at a chick pecked at her palm.

I wonder

"Shinguji-san, you will become the Ultimate Anthropologist next year, correct?" Komaeda asked, blankly.

"Most likely, why do you ask?"

"Well, the title indicates you study human tradition. That must mean you travel quite a lot."

"Very observant of you and that is the truth. I've traveled the world in order to learn of others and I've only settled here because of the letter of admission I received from Hope's Peak recently."

"About 2 months ago." Komaeda said.

"...Why yes. Giving there’s no reason nor was there sufficient information available for you to have been correct, I can only presume that was a lucky guess.”

"I agree. And I think I too am beginning to understand you a bit." Komaeda smiled ominously.

It was then that Komaeda's phone rang...He hurriedly reached for his pocket. 

"Uh...how do I use this?" He flustered. He wasn't used to cell phones

"Allow me." Shinguji opened his palm for Komaeda to give him the phone.

The anthropologist stared at the caller ID for a moment too long before accepting the call and returning it to Komaeda.

"Thanks." The luckster said.

"Thanks for what?" That voice, It was Kuzuryu-kun.

"Uh nothing. I mean, he's definitely something...I was speaking with somebody." Komaeda finished lamely.

"Right...You bailed before I could tell you but that phone calls internationally. You should be able to reach me on this number if you need anything."

"I-I wouldn't dare impose-"

"Shut the fuck up, I don't want to hear it! You'll only cause Nanami-san more grief if you don't call to check in."

"Kuzuryu-kun, you're oddly worried."

"Because you're a fucking mess and I don't fancy a moron like you wandering over Sicily by yourself."

"It seems everyone thinks I'm very unreliable."

"That’s cuz you fucking are...but the main problem this time is where you're going...ugh never mind, I'm getting a headache just talking to you. I'll call you again tomorrow. DO NOT LOSE THAT PHONE!" Kuzuryu yelled.

"Got it." Komaeda said, and passed it to Shinguji. Silently implying he had no idea how to turn it off.

His acquaintance provided his assistance.

"To think you were affiliated with the Kuzuryu clan. You are growing more intriguing by the moment." That was an easy conclusion to make. No other family in the country would dare share a name with that group.

"You overestimate me.” Komaeda self-depreciated. “Rather, there's someone else you’re better off watching out for."

"Whatever do you mean?" Shinguji asked.

"Makoto Naegi."

"...What is the significance of that name?"

"That is the Ultimate lucky student of class 78. One year above of yours and below mine. He is a far more interesting person than me...for you at least. You should meet him if you want to see the beauty of true hope."

"Oh? And where would I find this Makoto Naegi?" Shinguji rested his face on his palm.

"There's no need to tell you." Komaeda said, as if it was the most obvious thing in the world.

The other man raised an eyebrow.

"Those are trivial details because you two will meet no matter what. Even if you don't know his face or his address or really anything but his name...you’ll definitely meet."

"And the basis for your confidence is?"

"I am lucky. Ah, how I wish I could be here to see the moment your hopes collide."

“How amusing. You expect a confrontation between us?” If Shinguji was bothered by Komaeda’s vague implications, nothing remotely suggested it.

...

"...That girl is beautiful, don't you think?" Komaeda pointed to the one he’d been watching all this time

"Hm? Yes, I suppose." Shinguji replied, sharing the lucky student’s vision.

"Not just her looks. It's rare to see someone her age tend to birds these days. Just as you can tell a kid can grow up to be a sadist by torturing animals, the reverse can be seen with those who go out of their way to help them. With a kind disposition like that, I'm sure she's perceived as admirable and well-liked…don’t you agree?"

"I do. How wonderful to see you came to the same conclusion as I. Humans love nothing more than to have their preferences acknowledged by others." Shinguji admitted. “From what I’ve observed, she has a beautiful soul indeed.”

Komaeda sensed a hidden meaning beneath Shinguji's words. He stared at her differently than he did himself. It was a predatory gaze.

“Shinguji-san. Have you ever heard of Genocide Jack?” Komaeda asked.

“Only little, I haven’t been around very long. I understand he’s the prime suspect behind a number of serial murders. A very impressive record to have killed so many by himself…kukuku.”

“You think he’s alone?”

“I have not heard of anything to the contrary.”

“Then allow trash like me to provide you with the information you need. Genocide Jack is a villain known to kill with scissors and string up the bodies of his victims in very…compromising positions. Needless to say, there is no mistaking his kills.”

“I…am surprised the police would allow such gruesome details to be available to the public.”

“They don’t.” Komaeda’s words said it all. Shinguji had long realized he wasn’t dealing with the run-of-the-mill student.

“And…there is just one more detail. The killings had stopped for nearly a year now but sprouted back up recently.”

“Is that surprising? Killers are known for recidivism.”

“Possibly but a number of the new murders have been women…Genocide Jack only targets men.”

“A change in modus operandi…no. That would be far too unlikely; serial killers are too rigid in their mindset to alter their signature. There is no point leaving a calling card if you immediately decide to change address.”

“As expected of you, Shinguji-san. You understand well…Genocider Jack probably isn’t the culprit.”

“Assuming I am to believe your words, that is. And were I to, the in-depth knowledge you possess would only make me suspect you were Genocide Jack.” The uniform-clad man challenged.

“That’d be outlandish. I'm too worthless to kill so flawlessly. There’d be a better chance of Genocide Jack being a proper Ultimate like yourself.” Komaeda bit back.

They silently stared at one another for what seemed like an eternity. Then, the two suddenly laughed in unison.

"I hope you do not take this the wrong way but would you happen to have a particular interest in homicide?" Shinguji inquired.

"Not particularly. I just prefer being in the know. Just because I'm trash doesn't mean I have to be ignorant trash." A metaphorical light bulb went off in Komaeda's head "Oh right, I almost forgot! My mom used to be a detective. She may never have complimented my appearance but I picked up her analytical habits well enough."

Until right now, he had forgotten that memory. Now if only he could remember his father's occupation, then he'd be really lucky.

"That explains a lot." Shinguji ruminated and after a time, continued. "Would you mind if I borrowed that talent of yours?"

"Sure. Anything to be of service." Komaeda smiled

"At this moment, do you notice anything off about me?"

Shinguji-san, I wouldn't know where to start when you're dressed like that. But one oddity came to mind anyway.

"You give off a powerful scent." The same odor that reminded Komaeda of the alley he came through.

"Ah, you refer to my perfume. My apologies, it is a strange quirk of mine to use strong ones." Shinguji sounded disappointed, yet relieved.

"...Then I would advise using even stronger masking perfume than what you have right now.  I may have had trouble but Owari-san would see through it immediately."

"...Kukuku, Thank you, that is sound advice." Inversely to Shinguji's previous disposition, the disappointment faded and slight apprehension arose.

Komaeda would have loved to keep chatting but he would really miss his flight if he hung around longer.

"Sayonara, Korekiyo Shinguuji. Be careful about the next time you decide into indulge in more than just bird watching." Komaeda advised. 

"Noted." He understood the meaning.

Ah...he'd almost forgot the most important detail.

"Oh, and...you might want to take your business away from the Mirai district. That is quite a dangerous place." He hoped Shinguji would heed this warning.

"Why are you telling me this?" Shinguji placed his bandaged hand over his mask.

"I'm referring to the trash you left behind in the alleyway. The citizens who live there wouldn't take that well." Komaeda frowned. Was he going to play the fool at this stage? That was a bit hopeless.

"You misunderstand me, I felt we were on the same wavelength...until now." For the first time, Komaeda witnessed the anthropologist express confusion. "What I mean to say is that I do not have the slightest idea as to what you're talking about nor have I ever been to that area."

Komaeda was no less puzzled. What was meant to end the conversation, had instead taken a turn neither of them had expected...however Shinguji was faster to recover.

"You must have the wrong person...but no matter. Now, let me offer you some knowledge of my own; think of it as a parting gift in exchange for all the wonderful information I've received today." Shinguji (probably) smiled. 

"You likely haven't noticed...but your thoughts and actions are often disconnected and that discrepancy betrays your true nature."  Shinguji continued "But do not despair for, as I recall, you mentioned about traveling the world? Speaking from experience, a person can change a great deal by adapting to and assimilating the mannerisms of other cultures and people. Italy in particular is a country of grace, passion and camaraderie, even in it's underworld. Perhaps even one as socially impotent as you might have some small chance to experience enlightenment through self-discovery. Of course, that also includes getting better at controlling the anger that's seeping out of you at this very moment."

Komaeda stared

"Sayonara, Nagito Komaeda-san. Kukuku." Shinguji chucked triumphantly as he went on his way.

The luckster didn't move from his position for a few moments after that.

Could he have been wrong after all? No, Komaeda could definitely smell 'it' on Shinguji and yet, he didn't get the feeling he was being lied to. There would also be no point as the androgynous male had done nothing to deny who he truly was. You wouldn't confess to shoplifting from a candy store and then lie about what brand you stole.

It looks like there's an interesting mystery about. Shame this won't be my mystery to solve. 

Komaeda walked in the opposite direction from Shinguji. It was then that his phone chimed. A text message appeared on the screen without Komaeda needing to do much. He suspected Kuzuryu had forgotten some detail but the ID was different. Within the text were...a number and instructions on how to use a cell phone.

Komaeda faced behind him. Nothing could be seen but cars passing.

He smiled.

Good luck, Shinguji. Between Naegi-kun, Kirigiri-san and maybe even that detective from your class, you had better acquire the best perfume brand affordable...for the smell of blood is so very hard to wash away.

Chapter Text

November 24th 2010

Take a turn at Raira street...now where is that?

By every definition of the word, Naegi was lost...and for once, it wasn't his fault. Komaeda's instructions were hard to follow and It didn't help that it was already dark out. just seeing the street signs was becoming increasingly difficult. The Mirai district (or so Komaeda called it) had surprisingly few lamp posts and lights. Yet, the streets were still bustling with people.

Naegi would ask for directions but they all gave off intimidating vibes; actually, he felt that a lot of them often stared in his direction but did little else. There were homeless around too but then he'd feel awful about wasting their time. Should he risk it?

Naegi repetitiously examined the sheet of paper Komaeda left him. 

"Are you perhaps lost?" A chilling voice said from behind. Naegi jerked his head backwards to see a long-haired man in military garb. Although, had Naegi not heard the man's voice beforehand, he imagined identifying him as male at all would have proven difficult.

"Yes, do you know where I am?"

"This is Rokan." He replied.

Naegi looked through the script Komaeda had given him. He was quite a ways off his destination...almost like his departed friend intentionally made the map as confusing as possible.

"Is there a place you're looking for?" 

Naegi gave the man the map and after skimming it for a brief period, he spoke again. "Raira isn't too far off here, about 4 streets straight down. I'm surprised you could even miss it. Then again, these directions are fairly tedious and were I in your position, I would have words with whoever gave it to you ."

You and me both.

"You come by here a lot?" Naegi was Naegi, therefore he wouldn't hesitate to strike a conversation with anything that moved and treat them as if they'd been friends forever.

"I'm afraid not. I'm new to the city and, as of late, have spent my time as an observer here."

"An observer?" The stranger's words elicited a nonplussed reaction.

"Yes, I've merely observed the customs of the people here, that is all. More importantly, there was a reason I approached you." The man reached into his pocket and pulled out an all-to-familiar-looking wallet.

Naegi impulsively reached into his back-pocket to discover the wallet that should have been there, was not.

"That's mine!" He yelled.

"Apparently." He placed the wallet in Naegi's eager palms. That was close, considering the earnings he won with blood and tears from that horrible cafe were still there. If Naegi lost that then he'd really be in trouble. 

"Thank you." Naegi breathed, gratefully. "I must be really unlucky to have lost something so important in a place like this."

"...Unlucky?"

"Yeah. Bad things happen to me all the time." Naegi smiled ruefully.

"...There is a saying that good and bad luck are woven together like rope. Therefore, I shall say you are lucky indeed." Naegi's confusion prompted him to continue "I'm not sure you're aware, but this is the third time you've crossed this street." 

Naegi's eyes widened. His gaze circled around the area and found a number of familiar landmarks

"Had you not gotten lost and wandered back here then I doubt I would have ever found you at all. Thus, you are indeed lucky." The man surmised. But...wasn't that strange?

"Um...doesn't what you're saying mean you saw me all those times? Why wait until now to give me back my wallet?"

"Ah, but I never claimed I saw you. Truthfully, I didn't even find your wallet, it was given to me by a homeless who asked me to return it to you." The man crossed his arms, as if recalling a curious tale.

"Why not just give it to me himself? He sounds kind." He'd have liked to thank the person.

"Kuku, a very good question and one I intend to find the answer." He chuckled. "Although, I wonder if he was truly all that benevolent."

Naegi tilted his head slightly.

"When that man handed me the wallet, I could tell he was being watched by a disturbing amount of people. In fact, I am certain he handed me your wallet reluctantly. I found that behavior interesting, subsequently, I stalked him for a little while longer. That man he went on to steal from another of the homeless a few minutes later and was chased by his victim. Yet nobody else so much as batted an eye to the interaction." He concluded.

Naegi could see what he was getting at. The money in Naegi's wallet was easy pickings. Why steal when he effectively found free money?

"To that end, could you answer a question of my own? It is one only an outsider such as us really can." 

"Sure." Naegi agreed.

"Have you noticed anything strange about the people here? Look carefully before giving me an unfiltered answer." He instructed.

Naegi consented and observed the people passing in greater detail than before. It was night time and yet the streets were still fairly crowded...and most of the people here were dressed professionally. The few that weren't gave off a thuggish aura, not terribly unlike Owada's.

...Huh?

Naegi's eyebrows furrowed. There was something perplexing about their movements. Usually, when out in a busy district, people were always hunched up...but you could always get a sense of them moving with purpose and independence. Even with a myriad of others next to someone, they gave off the aura of self-agency. Here...it seemed like just about everyone was moving in clusters of groups. Naegi discerned this by their posture and conversations they made with each other. He took care to avoid making eye contact with them but in some cases he wasn't fast enough...and in others, Naegi could have sworn they were watching him first. One man even smiled knowingly.

"...Is there some kind of festival or a huge business conference going on in this area?" Naegi faced the stranger, who returned his question was a surprised expression of his own. "What?"

"Nothing, thoiugh I was the one who requested your opinion, I am admittedly surprised to see you were so perceptive. Doubly so, as you appear to be direction-ally challenged." Naegi was sure the boy was definitely smiling beneath his mask.

Should I take offense to that?

"But to answer your question. I've watched this area for 3 days and have seen nothing indicating a festival or anything occasion of the sort; I am of the belief that what we see now is an every day occurrence. The unison among the people in this district is unnatural and let me tell you that every other street is the same. Considering the size of this district, I would not fault anyone for believing they were in a different city altogether."

Naegi ruminated over the man's words. There was definitely something strange here but, is it really his place to wonder? He just doesn't want to be late for his interview and if this place really is dangerous then he'd better not stay out too long.

"Different city or not, they've been giving me weird looks since I got here. Maybe they all know each other?" Naegi theorized.

"You mean to say the entire district is a tightly-knit community? An interesting proposition but, much like the case with the homeless, I wonder if that's true. Then again, I must admit I don't share your apprehension for I tend to attract attention no matter where I go. This place is little different in that regard." He chuckled. With a getup like that, Naegi wasn't about to doubt him.

"Pardon me for keeping you but as I said before, I believe you are very lucky. Not just for yourself but for me as well; your actions have indirectly shed a bit more light on the conundrum I'm facing right now. For that, I am in your debt." He tipped his hat.

"No problem." Naegi showed a toothy smile.

"...There was one more detail I feel I should share with you. It's actually related to the reason I discovered this place; a friend of mine informed me of a string of murders occurring here. I recommend you not dawdle too long, for it would be a pity were something to happen to one as innocent as yourself." 

...

Without further delay, Naegi's new acquaintance directed him to the right track. It was only minutes after they went separate ways that Naegi forgot to ask for the man's name. Both their conversational skills were at a high enough level that an outside observer would have considered them long-time friends...

What he said about murders was scary though. Naegi had faintly heard the rumors of Genocide Jack returning and he definitely didn't want to cross paths with a vicious serial killer-

Deep in his thoughts, Naegi didn't notice he bumped head first into something.

What'd I hit?  Naegi staggered back and rubbed his forehead. With his one eye open, he lifted his head to see a band of men (and a woman) in black suits staring him down...and none looking all too pleased.

"You going to apologize or shall I make you? " One of the men on the side stepped forward, not even giving Naegi the time to recover and do exactly what he was complaining about. Naegi wasn't about to argue with him though, because his sheer size was reminiscent of Sakura Ogami's.

This is one swell mess I've gotten myself into.

Naegi backpedaled and fell on his behind as the man approached.

"Don't make a scene." 

A slender man in the middle blocked the giant's advance with a raise of his arm. This was the person Naegi had rammed into. He had wavy, crimson hair that was brushed to the side, sunglasses and a scar running down his right eye. The latter attribute may have been what frightened Naegi most; steel crimson eyes that seemed to pierce right through him.

"Short-sightedness is a vital part of childhood. Wouldn't you agree, boy?" He continued.

"I- Maybe?" Naegi stuttered, slowly picking himself up.

The man chuckled. "Want in on a secret to avoiding trouble?" 

Naegi nodded, feeling the man wasn't about to take a refusal for an answer.

"Never stop paying attention to your surroundings. You can go far in the world of adults with that mindset alone."

"T-Thank you. I'll keep that in mind, and sorry for running into you." He bowed his head.

"See, he's a sensible boy." He looked back at the men behind him, who laughed as if prompted. The woman remained silent.

"Make way for him." The scarred man commanded the others to split onto both sides of the sidewalk, leaving a path for Naegi to pass straight down the middle. The leader motioned his arm, signaling Naegi had permission to leave.

With shaky legs, Naegi walked through, feeling nothing but trepidation all the while. Even after the passed the last man, he didn't stop moving, nor did he turn around.

---

Fortunately, he didn't have to worry about running into anymore incidents...for Naegi quickly arrived at what he presumed to be his destination.

Before him was a brightly lit, two-story building and without even stepping foot, Naegi could feel an atmosphere that clashed heavily with his boyish appearance. And that definitely wasn't because of the elegantly-clothedwomen who winked at him on their way out of the building. Nor the equally well-dressed men who mockingly asked if he was still lost...why they knew that to begin with was a mystery in of itself.

He read aloud the sign in bright magenta color. It was a name he'd soon be accustomed to.

"Fantasia." Naegi mouthed.

"So you're not a mannequin." Naegi turned around to face the direction of the voice.

It was a girl, who he immediately deduced must have been a waitress at the establishment. She had long black hair modeled into twin tail ends, a white dress shirt and a black skirt. Much like the man he met prior, her eyes were as scarlet as the ascot she wore. However, unlike him, her eyes conveyed nothing but animosity.

"Now are you a customer?" She continued

"N-no." Naegi denied the claim.

"I figured as much, you look a little young." Odd choice of words given she didn't appear much older than he.

"You're blocking the entrance, move." She commanded. And without waiting for Naegi to process the order, she brushed him aside.

Naegi scratched his chin as he watched her enter the building, that was some way to make a first impression. Here he thought Kyoko was a little frosty when they first met.

He sighed. If that's the kind of person he'd have to work with then he'd better toughen up. Naegi didn't want to totally embarrass himself here, since this Akio person was someone Komaeda held in high-esteem.

After a few deep breaths, he twisted the door handle. What he saw was more impressing than the outside - multi-colored lights covered the vast space and the decor was of high quality. Not up to the quality of some of the sights the Togami had shown him but the design of the building certainly wasn't lacking either. The seats were decently full, with couples mixing and the smell of intoxication in the air. He was getting dizzy just making his way through.

Naegi feels almost stupid for not realizing it earlier...this was a club. Like, an adult club.  Could he work at a place like this!?

Get a grip, Makoto. You've faced worse than this. As long as you're not asked to be a maid again, you can deal with anything.

He smacked both of his cheeks convincingly, then made his way to the counter. If he was going to find help, it'd be there. Unfortunately, the bartender was busy with another customer; a woman with a cigarette poking out of her mouth. On second glance, Naegi wondered if she was a customer at all. The pink haired woman didn't give off the same forced sensual vibe the other female did. She seemed more like a natural beauty with the way and indifferent to her surroundings given how casually she dressed.

The smoking was off-putting though. Was that even allowed indoors?

"Put that thing out, you're going to kill both our lungs." The bartender rightfully complained, tobacco was bad for your health and that of anyone who happened to inhale it via second-hand smoking. The complaint itself was warranted but...but...

"Is that something you should say when you're smoking yourself!?" Naegi instinctively entered his straight man routine and was immediately met with confused (and somewhat amused) stares.

"My my, you've got quite a young customer waiting." The woman smiled at him.

"Huh? What'd you want, kid? Can't you see I'm busy?" The bartender rudely addressed him. He had light brown-hair, handsome features and looked like a man in his late 20s.

"I'm Makoto Naegi and I'm here for the job interview." He stated as firmly as he could.

"Ugh, you too? I dunno kid, you don't exactly look like you can handle this environment." Too? Was there another applicant?

"You're pretty immature to be teasing him like that, seeing as I'm sure there are a bunch of underage kids running around here." She countered.

"Tch, way to ruin my fun, Hiroko." He clicked his tongue and returned his attention to Naegi. "Fine, wait here while I get old man Akio." 

The bartender placed one hand on the counter and used it as leverage to leap over.

Naegi's eyes widened at the act. There were (expensive-looking) bottles and glasses on the counter, what if he'd broken them?

"If you're still hanging around, bring him to the waiting room and put him with the other kid, Hiroko." He requested. To which, the older woman.

"Sure, Shin-chan." She smiled, mockingly. The man gave her a comically disgusted look before leaving.

Naegi stared at his retreating form in wonder. "What a weird guy."

"Understatement of the century. Now, shall I escort you, Naegi-kun?" Hiroko asked, having remembered his name.

"I'd appreciate that a lot, Hiroko-san." He wanted to return the favor by showing her similar courtesy.

"Are we that close already? You work fast, boy...but you're a little young for me." She winked at him, hinting at his mistake. "Hiroko is my first name."

"O-Oh! Um...sorry." Naegi blushed.

"That's a cute response. My name is Hiroko Hagakure." She introduced herself, properly.

The inner workings of Naegi's mind came to a screeching halt for a moment. He looked the woman over again. Judging by appearances, she was in her mid 20s at the oldest.

She...probably just shared the same surname as Hagakure-kun.

"Something wrong?" 

"Nothing! Could you show me the way now?" He asked. She nodded and led the way.

"What's it like working here?" Naegi asked.

"You're asking me? I'm not an employee. Rather, I came over today to have a drink with Akio but it appears he's busy and left all the work to Shintaro. By the way, that's the name of the idiot of a barkeep you met with earlier." Hagakure explained.

Naegi nodded, not exactly satisfied with the answer.

"If you're worried about whether you'll be able to handle this gig...then yeah, you kind of should be. Akio's a difficult person to handle. If you want my advice, just try to stay out of trouble if at all possible."

"I think that might be a little difficult." If his luck was anything to go bye.

"In that case, feel free to call on me if things get too hectic. You can usually find me down the street." She ruffled his hair.

After offering her aid, Hiroko showed Naegi to a small and dimly lit room and closed the door behind her. There was little else to say of the plain room, save for one oddity. There was another person asleep on a chair; a green-haired teen. Given his ungraceful sleeping form and that there was also a bed in the room, Naegi assumed the boy had inadvertently fallen asleep.

Was this the other applicant? If so, he wouldn't want to be found in that condition by the manager.

Hoping he wouldn't receive a negative reaction, Naegi poked the other male's arms repeatedly until he stirred awake.

"Hmm. Whoa, fell asleep even before my first day on the job. I hope nobody else saw me." He joked...It didn't take much to drag him out of a dizzy state.

"And you are?" He asked.

"I'm Makoto Naegi and I'm an applicant here, like you...I think?" Naegi scratched his hair.

"No you're right, I'm here for the job. Pleasure to meet you, my soon-to-be co-worker and the name's Rantaro Amami."  He extended his hand, which the luckster happily shook. Amami sounded friendly and completely non-threatening, which was far and away the most Naegi could say for any of his interactions today.

That was good. That was great!

"I'd say the pleasure is mine but you seem to be a lot happier meeting me than the other way around. Any reason for that?" Amami asked, smiling.

"My nerves are kind of fried right now. I feel a little relaxed seeing someone..." How should he put this?

"Normal?" Amami finished for him. Taking Naegi's nod as an answer, he continued "Sensible, but didn't you know what you were in for before you got here?"

Naegi explained his circumstances.

...

"I see. But to leave you with barely any information, that friend of yours is pretty irresponsible...Tell you what, stick by me and I'll show you the ropes; taking care of the younger ones is all I'm good for. Ah, that's only if we both get the job, of course." He laughed.

"Have you been hired for work like this before, Amami-kun?" The hoodie responded with curiosity

"I travel a lot so I often take on odd jobs to pay the bills. Working in bars is tame as far as things go...and yeah before you ask?  I'm still a minor until January, don't tell anyone though."

"Uh, sure. Your secrets safe with me...because I'm underage too." In a show of pretend, Naegi dramatically zipped his lips.

"Wow, I never would have guessed~" Amami shrugged. Why did Naegi get the feeling the taller man wasn't being sincere "Seems like we're partners-in-crime for now."

That was when the door re-opened and with it, an elderly man walked through. He was old enough to be Naegi's grandfather. His suit was as white as his slick backed hair and trimmed mustache. Most importantly, there was an aura about him that Naegi couldn't quite pin down; his appearance suggested frailty yet his presence gave off a very different impression.

"Has something caught your eye, Naegi-kun?" The old man spoke with fondness, bringing Naegi out of his stupor.

"I'm very sorry! And...um my name is Makoto Naegi by the way." Amami snickered behind him. Of course he did, because the old man just said his name. Naegi didn't need to introduce himself but he did so without thinking.

"Relax, I am not offended. Though I advise that for next time, you should not be quite so transparent when trying to read others."

Naegi nodded lamely.

"Very good, you may call me Akio Meruka, and I understand that you both have come seeking employment at Fantasia. May I ask what skills you possess?" There it was; their first test. Naturally, they'd wonder what qualifications he'd have for the job...but Naegi didn't have any. What could he possibly have known that'd make him suitable for a club?

"I've worked at a cafe for a very short time, but not much else." Naegi scratched his chin

By comparison, Amami had quite a bit more experience. If Naegi was the manager, he'd definitely hire Amami instead...

"That's more than you can say for me. I'm new to the bar scene so I'd be very grateful if you could help me get experience." Amami answered next.

Huh? That's not what he told me...

"Little to no experience then...Very good, that makes things easy." The old man sported a kind smile "Humans become rigid and unchanging in their ways after they have accumulated experience. It is much easier to teach hatchlings from scratch than overly enthusiastic teenagers who think they already know everything." 

...Didn't he just skip a few steps. If we're going into training then...we already got the job?

"I-Is that it?" Naegi stuttered

"Do you have complaints?" Akio scratched his beard

"...um..."

"I believe what Naegi means to say is that we were under the impression this would be an interview. Getting the job on the spot seems unprofessional...not that I'm complaining." Amami surmised Naegi's thoughts.

"You believe so? I wonder if you will still keep that tone once you begin." The manager chuckled.  "Before we get you started, I would like to introduce you to the staff. Unfortunately, there is still some time before closing. Please, indulge yourselves in whatever you may before then."

Chapter Text

"Got you." Makoto speedily tapped the buttons on the controller. The sprite threw a flaming uppercut in response to his commands...only for the opponent to block and chain a defenseless Naegi with his own combo.

Makoto stared glumly at the screen that said "Player 1 loses" in bold.

"You almost had me on that round." Almost was clearly relative, seeing as Amami had 70% health left...which was admittedly better than his other 3 perfect straight victories. "Want another handicap?" 

"...pass." He mumbled.

"Suit yourself." Amami grabbed a handful of chips

The scene playing out before Naegi was nothing short of bizarre. He expected this to be a trying ordeal, not the equivalent of a sleepover...

"Hey...uh, is this alright? Playing around here, I mean." He said, anxiously

Amami shrugged "The old man told us to enjoy ourselves. I say we take him up on the offer."

"What if we're being tested? I still can't believe we were hired that easily." He would know, giving his excursions over the past weeks.

"Great, so I'm not the only one who's still suspicious of him. I don't buy what he said either." Yet he was as casual as can be, drinking soda in the middle of a potential trap.

"Amami-kun...are you one of those aloof types that nothing phases?"

The green-haired teen nearly choked on his glass. "What? Are we talking about me here? I worry so much that if I let every other little thing get to me, I'd have grey hair before I reach 30."

"That many responsibilities, huh?"

"Tons, including bratty little sisters."

"Now that, we've got in common.'  Naegi nodded in understanding.

"Oh? You've got a little sister too, Naegi?" For the first time, Amami had shown  more than a passive interest in him.

"Yeah, her name's Komaru and she's a real handful. When we were little, she used to follow me around everywhere but the second I took my eyes off her-"

"She vanished to God knows where?" Amami finished for him

"Older siblings have it rough huh? How were your sisters?"

"Which one? I've got twenty." 

"How? I mean that's-" Naegi tried to choose his words wisely "g-great! I guess your parents um...love each other lots." Nope, no proper way he could phrase this, that number's just too darn high.

"I don't think so. They're all my half sisters. Yeah, still pretty crazy huh? That's what happens when you've got a promiscuous bastard for a father." Amami clarified.

"That's...a bit harder to relate with. Sorry." Naegi attempted to sidestep possible landmines.

"Don't sweat it, I definitely won't. This twisted family situation of mine was what got me into travelling; I'm grateful in a way."

*Knock*

They turned back to the sound of light tapping near the door. That eccentric bartender before was leaning against the opening. "The customers have gone home. Time to meet the family."

Naegi's gaze returned to the screen, his character still laying defeated on the ground.

Yeah...I'm just about done with this anyway.

"Coming, Shintaro-san." Naegi answered

The brown haired man's eye twitched violently.

"A-Are you mad?" It was a dumb question, in hindsight.

"No, this is good. Time for your first lesson, Makoto." Shintaro smiled viciously as he approached Naegi. But he couldn't envision any goodwill could from such a crooked expression.

And he was right. With fists raised om both sides of Naegi's head, the older man pressed inwards, twisting his knuckles against Naegi's temples. 

"You'll address me as sir, and only sir. Call me by my name again and I'll put you 6 feet under!" Shintaro snarled.

"I think you better to listen." Amami laughed, making no move to rescue Naegi from his predicament.

"I got it. I got it!" Naegi cried. Wasn't this workplace harassment!?

---

Naegi returned to the main floor with Amami and le brute in tow. Compared to the crowd of customers entertaining themselves before, the space might as well have been empty. The multi-colored lights had been replaced with standard yellow. A sizable group of workers of different shapes and sizes were sprawled all over the area, all focused on the newcomers. Well, all but one who was slept while leaning back against a wall. They each dressed in ways that made them stand out but none were uniform, or even matching in color. It was as if they decided "Yeah, this is probably okay for a workplace" and gave it no further thought.

Naegi surveyed the area until he stumbled on the the girl with the twin-tails, who appeared mildly surprised to see him. 

"The newest additions to the family have arrived. " Akio said, standing at the center. Naegi could only assume his placement was symbolic. Just as before, the owner of Fantasia radiated serenity, however it was not of a nature that relaxed Naegi. Much like how one could be calmed by the vastness of the tranquil sea, they mustn't forget that it is also one of the world's silent killers. From the warnings of both Komaeda and Hagakure, this wasn't a person Naegi should take lightly.

His impression of Akio aside...family was an odd word choice. Komaeda had mentioned Akio cared after children, this might be just the elder's exotic way of thinking.

"Introduce yourselves." Shintaro said.

"Amami Rantaro. I look forward to working with you all."  Amami took the initiative. "Ah, I might come across as an odd guy, but trust me when I say I'm not suspicious at all."

"With an honest line like that, I feel like I could trust him with my life." Commented an androgynous boy of almost identical height with Naegi. He had slightly long blue hair that complimented his equally pearl blue eyes and fair skin. He wore a white dress shirt underneath a grey vest and black shorts that reached his knees. However, predicting his age was a different ballgame altogether; all Naegi could discern was the boy's youth. He was like something out of a painting.

"Guys who go out of their way to say they're not suspicious are the most suspicious of all!" A bespectacled bluenette in a black suit and a long skirt bandwagon'd off the boy's statement. Compared to the others, she gave off a tame aura. Hopefully she would be someone he could relax with.

"Based on experience, I can't help but agree. I'd say it's a bit early to judge in any case." Next was a man even shorter than Naegi and had no less of a baby face. But he was without a doubt older, simply going by the baritone and maturity in his voice. Unlike the previous workers, he didn't wear professional attire, instead opting for a black leather jacket, blue jeans and a dual-pointed black hat with an insignia Naegi couldn't quite recognize.

Sensing it was his turn to introduce himself, Naegi chose to act naturally...which also meant he'd be flustered and cheesy as heck. "I'm Makoto Naegi and it's nice to meet you all. I've got a bit of a bad luck streak, but I hope I'll become someone you can rely on... It kind of feels like I'm back on the first day of school, hehe." Naegi scratched his cheek.

"Well mannered and cute. I didn't expect that, given who he's affiliated with." Naegi would ordinarily have blushed at the first opinion but the neutrality in the speaker's tone made it hard to believe he'd been complimented. The owner of the smokey voice was a woman with dark purple hair, adorned in a pearl necklace. She wore a long sleeve dress that reached the floor, along with a high-thigh cut and left little to the imagination in the cleavage area. In terms of femininity, she didn't lose out to Hiroko Hagakure...although while, Hagakure exuded a playful charm befitting a college student, this woman's aura emanated the sorrow of a person who had experienced a great deal more than her looks conveyed.

"First I've heard of any of this." The red-eyed girl spoke up and scowled at him. "You were planning on working here? Then you should have said something instead of gawking like an idiot." 

"Knowing you, I bet he wasn't even given the chance." The purple-haired woman blindsided.

"What was that?"

"Please refrain from any more infighting in front of the new recruits. It's way too late in the night for this." Said a girl with short black hair that reached her shoulders. She wore a white apron overtop a maid outfit, high thigh socks and a mini skirt. Her tone suggested she was of the strict, responsible, no nonsense variety but whether that was true remains to be seen.

"Ryoma Hoshi, welcome and feel free to let this sorry sight discourage you. Bickering is common place here." The short man from earlier, Hoshi greeted.

"We can always count on you to be the mature one, Ryoma." The blue-haired girl continued after "I'm Tsumugi Shirogane. I'm typically plain available if you need anything."

"Even though, I'm the one who cleans up after your messes anyway. Greetings you two, address me as Taehime Uozumi." The maid said after shooting a disapproving look at Shirogane.

"Maki Harukawa." The girl who couldn't stop glaring at him, said no more than that.

"Pay no mind to her. From what I heard, Maki behaved crudely earlier thinking you were some street kid and now she's too embarrassed for giving the newbie a wrong impression." The purple-haired woman interjected

"Do you want to die?" Harukawa threw a glare that could make an ordinary man shrivel in terror...and yet this woman didn't so much as flinch

"Dying doesn't sound terribly bad really." As if drowning in her own thoughts, the forlorn woman lost all interest in her surroundings and fell into a daze.

"And just like that, we've lost her." The fair-skinned boy said.

"Can't be helped. The depressed woman over there is Sae Yozuru. This is another sight you should quickly get used to." Hoshi fielded in for Yozuru, pulling his hat down to cover his face.

*Snore*

The sounds of faint snoring captured their attention. It was the man who had yet to wake up. He dressed in a black tuxedo had unkempt, jet-black hair and a curl similar to Naegi's own. 

"Someone kick that idiot." Shintaro snarled, and with a smile, the blue-haired boy did as requested and delivered a kick right to the shin.

"What?"  As if failing to take note of the pain, Sleepy groggily woke and passively took in the exhausted stares sent his way. His focus turned to Amami and Naegi. "...The new recruits. Swell meeting you, the name's Takumi Hijirihara."

If Yozuru's features were somber then the slovenly Hijirihara's expression was utterly unexcitable. Naegi stifled a shiver as he stared into the black-haired man's cold, dispassionate, crimson eyes. 

"Don't take Takumi's rudeness personally, he just doesn't care much for you." As if reading Naegi's thoughts, the young boy answered with blunt words that didn't match his smile. Wasn't that exactly the sort of thing people would take personally? "I'm Rei Mikagami. Feel free to call me that, or Licorne, or Lico, or all three. Whichever you're in the mood for."

Naegi shook Mikagami's hand as the other boy offered it. He was still not quite coming to terms with how there was someone who might have actually been younger than him here. This had to be a violation of the law.

"I feel like I've seen you around, Lico. Vaguely anyway." Amami said, already having internalized Mikagami's namesake.

"I highly doubt that. You must have me confused for someone else." The boy replied with an honest smile.

"Where is Kotoko? She was supposed to be here." Akio frowned.

"I already put her to sleep. It is passed her bedtime." Hijirihara said, yawning himself.

Akio nodded, agreeing with the decision as a reasonable one.

"This is everyone then?" Amami posited

"Not quite. Fantasia has quite a few more employees, these are merely the high-ranking staff." The owner replied..

"'Yet we're still treated like a bunch of brats who can be called at a moment's notice." Harukawa flipped her hair.

"Isn't that normal?" Naegi said.

"What Maki means to say is that everyone is busy with their own assignments. In fact, you'll rarely ever see everyone gathered like this in one place; usually only a handful will present themselves periodically. Today was a special occasion, thus I called them in."

Did that mean he was a nuisance already?

Naegi's apprehension must have been transparent for Akio addressed it immediately. "Don't worry, Naegi-kun. A new addition to the family is something to be celebrated at any expense."

"On that note, I was told we had a single opening. Why are there two?" Shirogane asked.

"Amami-kun dropped by on short notice and I happen to approve of his skill. I trust you'll take no issue with my decision."

"I expect I'll have to be the one showing them the ropes." Uozumi interjected.

"Not quite. You'll have Maki helping you." Akio said and motioned towards Harukawa

"Come again? Why do I have to play babysitter?" The targeted girl wasn't pleased by the arrangement.

"The old man already gave the order. Just be a good little tyke for once and not bitch about it. Some of us want to get this over with." Shintaro yawned.

"...Fine, I'll play along. But you'll be joining us." She addressed the bartender.

"Haaaa? And why would I ever do that?" 

"Because you're here the most and you'll be the one they have most contact with. Why shouldn't you help?" Harukawa raised a fair point.

"That's a fantastic idea. Shintaro, join them." Akio accepted her request.

"What!?" Shintaro shot Akio a betrayed look.

"Oh? Are you refusing an order from your superior? Want to get fired?" Harukawa smirked.

The bartender gritted his teeth. "You little bi-."

"Shall we get going?" Uozumi said, paying no attention to the conversation that had Naegi watching nervously. 

"Amami-kun." Naegi called his colleague, who appeared to be deep in thought.

"Anyone in there?" Naegi nudged him

"Sorry, just spacing out. Lead the way, Uozumi-san."

---

Throughout the guide, Uozumi strutted in front, with Naegi and Amami trailing closely behind.  Shintaro and Harukawa were furthest back; both putting on airs and facing away from each other. The maid introduced them to the vital areas of the nightclub. They had already gone over the lounge, a dance-floor, a recreation room and the kitchen. Dining was also a service of the establishment, apparently. He couldn't help but notice some of these locations lacked windows.

Now the maid was currently showing them around the various washrooms.

"Uozumi-san, you're seriously strong to come in here so easily." Amami said, nervously as the four walked out of the boy's washroom.

"I wouldn't be able to perform my duties if I could be deterred by gender barriers. As the premier cleaner of Fantasia. If there's an eyesore that needs to be tidied, I am the one to call." Uozumi replied, sternly.

"You talk big for an over-glorified janitor." Harukawa snarked when they returned. She'd been the only one to remain outside.

"...I wonder what that says of you when I'm often tasked with the burden of handling jobs you're too inept to finish properly." Uozumi wasn't one to mince words. The submissive stereotype associated with maids did not apply to this girl.

"Move now, catfight later." Shintaro growled.

"Very well. Next we'll visit the guest rooms." Uozumi retreated from her glaring contest with Harukawa and continued the guide. Following her, they walked back a notable distance along the way they came.

In Naegi's opinion, Fantasia was impressively large...a bit too large. He didn't mean that in the phrase of a compliment but an inquiry as to the building's structure. When he was outside, he could tell the building was of average size...yet the interior was, as previously mentioned, vast. There were stairs and slopes present as well...he supposed that wasn't too surprising given there was also an upper floor. Which was where they were going now.

"These are the guest rooms." Uozumi said as they reached a long hallway with several doors on both sides of the wall.

The interior of the rooms weren't unlike what you'd see in a hotel. "Customers stay here?" Naegi asked.

"Yes, in a manner of speaking. Although, renting a single room is quite pricey as there is only so much space available in the building."

"That doesn't sound practical. If the rooms are too expensive, I'd think the customers would prefer a hotel where they could spend the night cheaply." Naegi said.

"Spend...the night? These rooms are for used for a maximum of three hours. Moreover, why would anyone think to reside here for-....Oh. I didn't expect there would be a misunderstanding."  Uozumi closed her eyes and tightened her lips.

"Hey, is this guy really going to be alright?" Harukawa raised her doubts. Shintaro snickered to the side of her.

Naegi looked between them in confusion.

Amami patted him on the head "You'll understand eventually. Just take your time."

He felt like he was being belittled. Was it something he said?

---

The tour ended once the group tracked their way back to the main lobby. Harukawa and Uozumi departed soon after, leaving only Shintaro, Amami and himself left. The latter two were seated by the counter while the bartender stood behind it. Naegi hadn't noticed before but the counter was stacked with a vast array of alcohol. He'd never seen that many drinks in one place. That begged the question...where was the storage?

"What'd you think of the tour?" The brown-haired man asked, passing the teens two glasses of orange juice.

"A bit overwhelming but I think I can get used this place. Uozumi-san was very concise, I'd like to thank her properly some time."  Naegi answered.

Shintaro huffed "She'll be ecstatic to hear your praise. Piece of advice, don't ever take credit for that girl's work, if you know what's good for you."

Naegi nodded slowly, and drank from the cup.

"And you?" Shintaro addressed Amami next

"Yeah, Naegi's right. Uozumi was admirably thorough...however, I think she missed a spot." Amami twirled his finger over the glass.

"Oh? I think she covered just about everything worthwhile." 

"There's a red door on the guide that we passed over. It was conspicuous so I thought it might have been important. Guess not though." Amami laughed slyly.

The two were sizing each other up for some reason. It reminded him of some of Kirigiri and Togami's interactions.

"I left something back at the room I was staying in. Be right back." Amami exclaimed, sliding his glass back the bartender.

"Hahahaha. He's an inquisitive kid. I like that." Shintaro laughed once he was out of earshot.

"I agree. I wasn't even paying attention." Naegi complimented his coworker as well.

"Tch, you'll lag behind Rantaro if you don't shape up." The older man admonished him, sounding disappointed. Naegi took note of how casual he was with people's names. "I thought you'd be the one to pick up on the door."

"Sorry. Guess I was focusing too much on the way this building was designed." Naegi scratched his cheek.

Shintaro raised an eyebrow "Couldn't you tell from the outside?"

"That's the problem. The interior didn't fit the image I had in my head. There shouldn't be enough space to fit everything, save the guest rooms.  Those fit fine on the upper floor, but the dance venue, the washrooms on that aside and the recreation room...I think they're underground." Naegi surmised.

"Doesn't sound too out of the ordinary to me." 

"Uh yeah, maybe. Underground parking lots are that way too...It's just, this place seems really, really huge even by those standards. Compare that to how small the building on the surface is, then I think it's a little strange...I doubt I've seen the half of the whole structure."

"Is that so? Where's your proof?" Shintaro said, with the same challenging expression he gave Amami earlier.

"Well, where's your storage? You said we'd seen everything worthwhile but with all the drinks you've got there, in the kitchen, and possibly more...you need supplies to keep stock and more for the upkeep of the building. That requires more room but we didn't see anything like that on our way around the place...or even space for shipments to dock. All of this stuff has to come from and be kept somewhere."

...

"A-Am I wrong?" He flustered over the lack of an immediate response. It was then that Shintaro reached over to cup the luckster's chin and lifted it slightly upwards. Shintaro examined the boy's face with an indiscernible expression. Naegi tried to move but the man's grip was strong and kept him fixed in place. A few seconds of awkward silence passed before Shintaro released him.

"Is there something on my face?" Naegi asked, stunned by the sudden action.

"Yeah, an idiot." The man remarked and reached into his pocket and pulled out two envelopes. "These are a welcoming present from the owner, take em and skedaddle while I lock up.  Oh and tell Rantaro that you'll both be working evening shifts."

The conversation ended and Naegi's question went unanswered.

 ---

Naegi and Amami trailed through the streets of the Mirai district.

"Of the odd jobs I've frequented in the past while, those guys take the cake." Naegi murmured.

"They're dysfunctional for sure. Compared to your usual workplace hierarchy, they were more similar to a family." Amami responded.

Naegi got that an impression as well. "You don't think they're hiding anything?"

"It wouldn't matter if they were, as long as the pay is good and they don't force me to do anything unsavory. I doubt we'll have to worry about that though; I've seen my share of scumbags during my travels and I can tell you these guys are too easygoing to be into anything super shady."

Travelling huh?

"Do you plan to stay here long or will you be travelling again soon?" Naegi asked.

"The former. I actually came back to Japan because of an admission to a certain school. And I wouldn't be able to leave even if I wanted to now. I'm flat broke."

"...Amami-kun, you pay your own travel fees?" That must cost a ton! No high-schooler could afford that.

"Well yeah, not like anyone else will. I ran away from home years ago." The older teen blushed inappropriately, as if it were an act of minor misconduct.

"B-But how would afford that?"

"Oh? Wasn't I clear before? I take jobs, requests and undergo expeditions in every country I visit, save up for travel money and living expenses and do it all over again in the next country. In doing so, I earned a bit of a reputation that even reached some rather incredible people." Amami explained.

"What about school?" Naegi continued the array of questioning.

"Studies are great and all but life experience matters just as much, in my opinion. However if it bothers you that much, I enrolled in school for the next season."

Okay. That was at least progressive but his nomadic lifestyle was worrying. Was this guy really alright?

"I can understand why you need money so much then...but where are you living if you're desperate for cash?"

Amami stopped walking.

"Amami-kun?"

"That's a bit personal." He issued a non-committal response. Naegi couldn't believe Amami, who had revealed such intimate details of his personal life, would somehow gain reservations about telling Naegi his address. Coupled with his obvious financial problems, there was probably one reason...

"Are you homeless?" Naegi concluded.

"Not quite...but I can see how you'd think that." Amami sighed, having been caught "I've been staying at a hotel since I arrived. Not exactly the best standard of living but I'll have to make due until the school term.

"That doesn't sound like an efficient use of money."

"It's not but even living on the streets is better than running back to my old man and admitting I couldn't make it out there in the world." Amami crossed his arms. Naegi could sympathize to an extent. He didn't want to ask his parents for money just because he'd spent it all irresponsibly. By comparison, Amami was carrying much greater burdens.

"I'd let you stay with me but I don't think Hope's Peak would allow that." Komaeda had actually been a student at HPA. Naegi doubted the academy would let him get off unscathed if they found out he was hoarding someone unaffiliated with the school.

"You attend Hope's Peak? That's hard to believe. " Amami said, surprised

"Yeah, it's a wonder how an average guy like me got in, huh." Naegi smile ruefully.

"A little, but I was more surprised by the coincidence. HPA is where I'm being admitted to in a few months. What are the chances?" Amami dropped the bombshell.

"Eh? You're going to be a student too!?" Amami may have taken Naegi's identity in stride but the same couldn't be said the other way around. Even though Naegi had mellowed out a bit, he was still a HPA fanboy. Ultimates were supposed to be the best in the world, after all 

"What's your talent?" Naegi asked, giddily.

"Settle down a bit, and I'll be the SHSL Adventurer. What's your talent, Naegi-senpai." He joked

Naegi pouted at the mocking statement "Please don't joke like that. And I'm the SHSL Luck."

"Luck, huh? In that case, maybe us meeting was your talent at work." Amami smiled.

"That might not be a good thing. Most of my luck is bad luck."...Or maybe not, if that stranger's words were to be believed.

"If you're going to be a student, Amami-kun, then I'd be glad to have you over." Admittedly, his room had felt empty after Komaeda left. Not like he was looking for a replacement...but he liked company.

"If you're offering then I'd be an idiot to refuse." Amami shrugged.

"Great, guess we'll be seeing a lot more of each other."

"Is that fine with you though?"

The atmosphere changed and grew tense upon Amami's inquiry. His eyes darkened.

"Huh?" Naegi asked

"I haven't given you a shred of proof that anything I've said is the truth...and there have been those serial murders recently. Kindness is all well and good but Is it alright for you to trust strangers so freely? I could be that killer for all you know." Amami placed a finger on his chin and cast Naegi a neutral glance.

"I see what you're getting at...but I'm pretty sure you're not." Naegi shook his head.

"Based on?"

"Well, you covered for me in front of Akio-san earlier by saying you had no work experience. I don't think you could do something as awful as murder."

"How narrow-minded. Even good people can kill. All it takes is one very bad day."

Maybe so...however "I'm still not feeling it. I think I can definitely trust you."

"And that's enough for you?"

Naegi nodded with sheer optimism.

"In that case, I'll try to live up to your expectations...and don't worry, I'm not the killer." Amami smiled and patted Naegi on the shoulder.

"Thought so. And you've got one thing wrong, Amami-kun." Naegi returned the gesture

"What's that?"

"Starting now, we're not strangers. We're co-workers, and friends." Naegi brought forth his hand for the other boy to shake,

"Hahahaha, you serious? With a line like that, I can tell you're the type to be popular with everybody." Amami accepted the sign of friendship.

"You're one to talk." Naegi retorted. With Amami's looks, maturity and easygoing disposition, he wouldn't have any trouble making friends.

While they were on the subject..."Shintaro gave us both an envelope from Akio-san."

"Shouldn't you be calling him 'Sir'?" Amami chided Naegi as the latter handed him the wrapping.

"Real funny." Naegi muttered as he felt the weight of the item in his hands. Whatever was in there, was stacked. Was it money? Even though they hadn't started working yet?

The duo ripped open their envelopes at once and found the contents were as expected, bills of money. Akio-san must be quite the generous employer, they thought as each of them pulled the hard cash out slowly.

Naegi scanned the yen bills...and then froze in his tracks. Amami had stopped a moment before. Both boys held blank expressions as their eyes were transfixed onto the thin stack of yen bills in their possession.

"Amami-kun." "Naegi-kun." They said simultaneously

""Aren't there a few too many zeros here?""

Chapter Text

"I'll be gone for a while." Owada announced suddenly, mere minutes before class.

"Why?" Asahina asked.

"Trouble with the Crazy Diamonds. Takemichi called me in and yelled his ass off about some real shit. I've known that dude for a while and I've never heard him so pissed off." Mondo answered.

"Understood, we all have our responsibilities. Then again, I do not believe Ishimaru will take it well; he tends to frown upon gang-related circumstances." Ogami said, arms folded.

"Why do you guys think I came early for once? I'll be outta here before he sniffs me out."

"Then you better get lost asap. Das Fuhrer will be here any second." Kuwata commented, lazying around on his desk. Owada soundly took his advice and speed-walked out of the room. He'd have to move faster than that if he wanted to evade the prefect...

"The class feels smaller than usual." Naegi remarked after minutes of silence

"You'd be right. I haven't seen Fukawa and Enoshima-san in a while." Fujisaki sounded worried. In Naegi's opinion, Enoshima gave him the impression she could deal with anything that came her way...she was probably just cutting class. Fukawa was far more problematic, taking her personality into account.

Maybe he should pay her a visit when he has time. He hadn't seen her since back at the public library.

"There's also Kirigiri-san an Togami-kun." Fujisaki continued. The former had dropped by one day, with a message about going on leave.

I'll be on duty for some time. Don't bother me - Was more or less the detective's declaration. Kirgiri was often hard to read but even he could see she'd been in a foul mood. Whatever happened must have ticked her off real bad.

As for Togami...yeah, you got me. He does whatever he wants.

"Come to think of it. I haven't seen you much around campus either, Naegi." Fujisaki sent him a curious stare. Were his absences that notable? That was worrying, seeing as how Fukawa let it slip that his actions (somehow!) tended to reach everyone's ears. Naegi wasn't about to let them know about his shady workplace.

"I'm sure he's been very busy." Celes said with a knowing smile. He figured she hadn't forgotten about their deal...probably why he hadn't caught wind of anyone mocking him for taste in dress. Though he almost wished Celes call on him already instead of hanging that guillotine over his head.

"Yeah, where've you been Naegi?" Asahina eagerly mimicked Fujisaki

"Aw...nothing much. You guys...probably miss me wandering the halls." He lied. It was evidently a very poor lie, evidenced by how Kuwata broke into grin.

"He's bullshitting." Kuwata said.

"Without a doubt, that was one of the worst lies I've ever heard...And it also means he's hiding something." Celes smiled. Why was she encouraging them!? Had she really forgotten about her blackmail...or did she not care anymore? 

"Come on, you guys are totally off-base." He raised his hands defensively and hoped the bell would ring this very second.

"Everyone, to your seat-...what's going on here?" The godsend Ishimaru, descended in Naegi's time of need. Only to see a group of malicious teenagers eerily approaching the lucky student.

"Naegi's got a secret. We're about to get it out of him, be cool for once and join us." The demon Kuwata, attempted to ensnare the moral compass into his schemes.

"Oh, that sounds exciting." It worked evidently, as Ishimaru agreed with little provocation

"Isn't class about to start!?" Naegi yelled, appealing to Ishimaru's love for order.

This also worked because Ishimaru, begrudgingly, urged the others to stop and return to their seats. They did as requested but that was a temporary solution. The prefect had stopped them, however only as long as class was in duration. After that...

"You're totally ours, dude. Don't even try to return, I've already predicted we'll catch you." Hagakure added, pointing to his crystal ball. Normally, everyone dismissed the clairvoyant as a nuisance but for once, they were glad to have him on their side.

He didn't know why. Statistically speaking, that meant a 70% chance they wouldn't catch him, which was alright in his opinion.

With pleading eyes, Naegi looked to the only person who could possibly save him. The only one among these heathens who was incorruptible.

"Ogami-saaan." He groaned

"I will hold them off for as long as I'm able." The martial artist answered his cries for help.

Naegi would have run up and hugged her...if not for what she said next. "However, I feel remiss of depriving everyone of harmless entertainment. To make it fair, I will allow you a minute head start." Ogami smirked.

...Crap

"Settle down, everyone. Time for class." The teacher arrived.

For the hours that passed, Naegi did not settle down. Every time he peaked out from his desk and crossed eyes with one of his "friends", they'd subtly remind him of his timely fate using one gesture or another. They probably didn't care too much at all about what he was really up to. They were bored and wanted something to do, meanwhile Naegi happened to be a likely victim. The clock ticked. Hours became minutes, minutes became seconds...until finally.

The bell rang and he dashed out along with it.

"No running in the halls!" Ishimaru bellowed. 

"Get him!" Kuwata declared.

"Wait." Ogami blocked the door after Naegi ran out of it. He'd say thanks but he knew once that minute was up, she'd be joining them! Forget going to his dorm, if he didn't leave the school now, he'd be screwed!

Naegi disobeyed Ishimaru's order and ran down the halls as fast as his feet could take him. In hindsight, Naegi should have listened to his stern classmate, for he was an otherworldly klutz and running where others were certain to pass was a recipe for disaster. He realized that too late after he ran into something when he turned around the corner.

A yelp was heard when Naegi impacted blond, who fell backwards onto the floor. 

"Woah. Sorry." He apologized quickly, noting the collision as his error. His inner thoughts were at odds with his ordinarily curt behavior; the back of his head was screaming at him to forget his responsibilities and run. But he wouldn't be Makoto Naegi if he didn't put others first.

He offered a hand to pick the fallen girl up. She wore his student uniform and once glance at her face told Naegi that she was a foreigner.

"It is alright. I'm, as you say, tougher than Japanese steel folded over 1000 times!" She exaggerated, and Naegi was absolutely sure no saying like that existed. However this was good and it meant she was fine. That also meant he could keep running.

"That's great! I'll be going now, got to escape from my friends." He resumed his sprint, feeling a little bad after that hit and run. But he'd feel worse if his classmates caught up to him. Naegi could even hear the sounds of their running close by...really close by.

Like...right...behind him?

Naegi looked back to see, thankfully not his classmates chasing him, but the foreigner who he thought he'd left behind.

"Are you playing a game of hide and seek?" She asked, easily keeping pace with him. 

"N-Not really? The stakes are a little high for that, I think." He said. How could she run so fast in heels?

"You mean to say this is one of the extreme punishment games I've heard so much about. How delightful, you must let me join."

"Excuse me?" There was a fundamental miscommunication present that Naegi was quickly becoming too winded to correct.

"Ah, but if the risks are so high, might there be a reason for you to run so slowly?" She commented.

"My legs are a little shorter than most, that's all!" He said in between pants. That growth spurt sure is taking its time.

"I see, then may I be of assistance?' She offered. He didn't know how she planned to help but he uttered a yes anyway. Naegi was not expecting the blond to suddenly princess carry him and sprint off far faster than he did. After seconds of futile protests, Naegi surrendered to the girl and covered his face with his hands, hoping to whatever higher power was out there that nobody saw them. (Too bad the author's a dick)

The two finally stopped somewhere decently far off from campus. He was probably safe here but his pride was in shattered pieces.

"Thank you, um...I don't think I got your name. Mine's Makoto Naegi." He introduced himself.

"I am Sonia Nevermind. And the pleasure is mine." Nevermind giggled. She enjoyed this excursion far more than he, it seems.

"Do you...like games, Nevermind-san?" 

"Sonia is fine...and  very much so, however this case was a bit special." She pursed her lips "You see, there was a unified hunt for one of my classmate I was among the few who were unable to attend. To let such festivities pass me by is most shameful."

Hunt...

"Are you one of Komaeda-kun's classmates?" He asked and she nodded.

"You know of Komaeda-san?" Nevermind tilted her head.

"Yeah, we're...friends. I think?" Did he ever confirm that?

"How wonderful. I feared Komaeda isolated himself from everyone. The class has been...different without him." Nevermind's tone suggested she wasn't quite sure if that was a positive or a negative. He greatly sympathized, Komaeda wasn't the easiest person to deal with. 

"Not enough 'HOPE'?" He said exhaustively and air quoted.

Nevermind laughed bitterly "That's certainly one way to put it."

Naegi's phone rang the next moment. He'd received a text from Amami.

"Nevermind-san, if you'll excu-" He started

"Call me Sonia. Nevermind is reserved for the enemies of my family!" She commanded with an outstretched arm.

"Yes, ma'am." He said...only to realize at some point, he'd gotten down on one knee and prostrated himself in front of this woman.

"...What just happened?" He blinked.

"Do not worry, I hear I have that effect on people." Sonia smiled. 

Hypnosis?

"Okaaay...Sonia-san. If you'll excuse me, I have somewhere I have to be." Naegi picked himself up

"Pardon me, then. Do not be an alien and say wassup when you have the chance." It took a considerable amount of effort for Naegi to hold back on correcting her speech.

---

"What's with the clothes?" Amami asked him as soon as they met in the store. He referred to the fact that Naegi was still in his school uniform.

"Something came up and I couldn't go back to the dorms to change. Come to think of it, I didn't see you when I woke up."

"I'm an early-riser. I got out at the first sign of dawn and decided to explore the city." Busy as ever, Naegi thought. It must have been difficult for someone who moves around a lot to be confined to a small space.

"You made it, Naegi-san." Uozumi greeted him. "Do you not have...proper uniforms?"

Naegi shook his head.

"Then I'll be sure to remind Akio to order them at your specifications. Until then, what you have now will have to suffice. Amami will wait on the customers, Maki will aid you. Naegi, you'll come with me." With those instructions, the newly established roommates split up.

...

Naegi followed Uozumi into the kitchen. Compared to the previous night when the ahoge had seen the area bare, the kitchen was bustling with aroma and cooks.

"Truthfully, we have yet to decide on your stations. For now, I will simply observe your skills and gather data."

Naegi nodded in understanding. Afterwards, he was given mundane tasks that were expected of a rookie. He swept the floors when movement in the kitchen was stable, as to not disturb the other workers. He washed copious amounts of dishes and really did just everything but touch a stove and he preferred it that way.

Naegi was pleasantly surprised he didn't mess anything up. He'd halfway expected his luck to kick in and break those dishes but nothing of the sort happened, all the way up until break time.

"Naegi, you're dismissed for now." The maid had silently observed him all the while.

"How'd I do?"

"Adequate. You made no horrendous missteps but I've yet to see you accomplish anything any decent employee could not." She said, succinctly.

In other words, I'm just average Makoto Naegi huh? I hope Amami-kun's faring better.

...

His worries were evidently misplaced, for the adventurer was fluently chatting up customers much older than he. He looked perfectly at home in this environment.

"Takes all kinds huh?" He remarked.

"He does seem to be having fun." Shintaro replied by the counter. Naegi saw him typing on a computer...and smoking yet again. The customers didn't seem bothered by it though.

"What are you doing?" Naegi asked.

"Trying to figure out how to make a poll online. Sheesh, technology these days is crazy." He replied. 

What would he need a poll for? And that should be easy..or.was he not technologically savvy? That was rare for even young adults in this era. Then again, he knew Hagakure-kun was bad with...everything.

"Good luck with that then." Naegi shrugged, and directed his attention back to the lounge...he didn't think he could handle Amami's job.

On that note, wasn't Harukawa a waitress too?

"Harukawa-san as a waitress...I find that a little hard to picture." Naegi smiled ruefully. 

"Can't fault you there, but Maki has a bit of a reputation here. The guys love her, look over there." Shintaro jerked his finger over to the table where the girl in question was on the verge of losing her mind.

"What'll it be today?" Harukawa said, authoritatively.

"Come on, Maki-chaaan, give us a smile when you take our orders." said a smug customer.

"A smile isn't on the menu. And you wouldn't be able to afford it if it was." The waitress sighed.

"So money might be on the table? Sweet, just forget this lousy job and come work for me. I'll pay ya a fortune." The customer's arm snaked its way up Harukawa's thigh.

Naegi gasped at the deplorable sight. Surprise quickly transformed to disgust as he prepared to march over there.

"Stop." Shintaro said, haphazardly.

"That's sexual harassment, we should stop them." He argued.

"Just watch. It's harmless." His eyes not leaving the computer.

Naegi raised an eyebrow at the man's casual behavior and returned to the relevant scene before him, just in time to witness Harukawa grab the man's wrist and flipped him over onto the ground. Naegi winced at the audible crack from the impact.

"Do you want to die?" Harukawa growled.

"There it is! That's our Maki-sama." All the men in the club immediately burst into cheer and applause. Even the customer who'd been ragdolled into the floor laughed...albeit painfully. Harukawa herself looked like wanted to leave as soon as possible.

"What the heck?" was all Naegicould say.

"See? It happens all the time. These clowns pick a sacrificial lamb to antagonize Maki enough to make her snap. Bunch of perverts if you ask me." Shintaro said with a grin. "But hey, it attracts customers and even the ladies love it."

Naegi confessed that the bartender was right. Even the women had joined in on the praise.

"...What the heck?" He repeated. "That's one messed up idea of a good time, that guy looks like he might be seriously hurt."

"He probably is, but Maki knows how to hold back."

"Hold back? You mean she could have done worse?" Couldn't they risk a lawsuit with the police?

"Are you kidding? Those idiots know better than to actually piss Maki off. Then they really might get killed."

"W-Was that a joke?" 

"It's whatever you want it to be, kid." Shintaro blew another puff of smoke. To which Naegi was unfortunate enough to inhale this time.

"C-Can you smoke that outside?" The luckster coughed

"And skip out on the job? No thank you."

"Smoking is bad for the customers, and you. In fact, you shouldn't be doing it at all." He sounded like he was nagging. 

Shintaro sighed "Listen here, my mother could make a professional boxer cry just by bitching at him. If I didn't quit smoking when she told me to, I ain't about to listen to a half-pint who probably doesn't even have the stones to a cute girl without turning into a quivering mess."

"Huh!? I totally can!" Where did that even come from!?

"Suuure, I'll triple your pay the day I see that." Several customers sitting by the counter snickered at the comment, to Naegi's general embarrassment. Shintaro too smiled, feeling a vague sense of accomplishment.

Naegi usually wasn't one to give into provocation, he dealt with Byakuya Togami on a daily basis and this jerk had nothing on him. Still, that didn't mean he liked being looked down on and considering the basis of the discussion was originally centered on health safety, that only gave him greater incentive to react. That's why he did something he ordinarily wouldn't in a calm mindset; Naegi jumped and snatched Shintaro's cigar out of his mouth. The silence in the room was so prevalent that Naegi could even hear the sound ice cubes in the alcohol clinging together.

The bartender slowly, mechanically faced Naegi with a shocked expression "I...don't understand. Why?"

"Bad...health?" Naegi stuttered incoherently, instantly realizing he made a bad play.

"No...I still don't get it. Why did you think that was a good idea?" Shintaro asked, as if he was still unable to comprehend the situation.

Naegi shivered and accidentally backed into one of the alcohol glasses and had it's contents spill onto the floor . The sudden impact and wetness on the back of his arms also had him drop the cigar. One thing led to another and...well, who knew lit smoke and alcohol could cause a fire?

Fortunately he did, because he reacted quickly enough to stamp out the cigar's embers before they grew. All that was left was a thin smokey line and garbage.

Naegi sighed in relief, as one should after preventing a fire. And the only damage was...uh oh.

"Aahahahahaha." One of the men seated by the counter convulsed in laughter, and others soon joined him. 

"You got owned, boss-hahaha" Another needlessly contributed.

Naegi met Shintaro's gaze and saw a neutral expression on the man's face that didn't quite meet his eyes. In those orbs , gleamed intent to murder in its purest form.

"Um...it was an accident?" Naegi said, awkwardly.

"Souji." Shintaro venomously said out of the blue. Naegi didn't recognize the name but one of the customers responded so the bartender must have referred to him as a regular.

"Yeah?"

"What was your order again?"

"Wha? I didn't order a damn thing." The man said, clearly confused.

"What was that? A side of broken bones? Coming right up." Shintaro cracked his knuckles and slowly approached Naegi.

Think Makoto, what would Kirigiri-san do at a time like this!?

A mental image of the lavender haired girl sprung to mind

"For starters, I'd have kept my mouth shut and minded my own damn business. That or passive-aggressively told him off. Neither of which are currently an option for you. Pity."  "Kirigiri" flipped her hair and faded away.

Naegi's fight or flight response was on the fritz today, evidently and the customers cheering for him to run away or stay and fight were not helping in the slightest. Naturally, he reacted too late by the time the bartender hammered his closed fist down on Naegi's head.

"That hurt!" Naegi whined, clutching the top of his head. Even his ahoge had become slightly more bent than usual.

"Did it? Well let me tell you...that pain is nothing compared to what I'm feeling after watching the cigar I love more than anything in the world get stomped on." The man cracked his knuckles again.

This time Naegi was prepared to run. Break time was over anyway!

"Oi, idiot." Harukawa said as she stomped over "I can't deal with these guys anymore. I want to leave."

Harukawa had clearly intended for her complaint to be meaningless, because she was shocked when the auburn-haired man replied "Fine, whaever."

"Huh?"

"You can leave...because Naegi's going to act as your replacement for the day." Shintaro smirked. It was eerily similar to the devious grins Naegi's classmates had given him this morning.

""Huh?"" Naegi and Harukawa expressed confusion

---

"I don't think he can handle this..." Harukawa watched Naegi fidget his way from customer to customer. She felt the anxiety of supervising a kid riding a bike for the first time.

"He can't, that's why I'm forcing him to." Shintaro replied.

"Is this because of some ego trip? God, you're so immature."

"Pfft, like you're not looking forward to watching him get eaten alive."

"What makes you think that?" She arched an eyebrow

"You're still here."

She didn't refute that logic.

...

"The shorty? Couldn't we have gotten the handsome one?" Naegi's clients were a group of somewhat older women, who weren't all to pleased to see him. But that wasn't a problem, he'd dealt with so much worse.

"Amami-kun is busy at the moment, unfortunately. I'll take your orders. And...this is my first time so, go easy on me, okay?" He offered a smile.

'What do you think, girls?"

"I say be gentle, I'm hungry anyway. Just ask for something on the menu already."

"I don't know, he seems fun to mess with. Can you even work in that get up, schoolboy?"

"I've dressed in worse...like last week when I worked at this cafe..." He started.

"What the hell...he's not doing that bad." Shintaro said, miffed at the turn of events. Naegi was supposed to be suffering.

"If nothing else his conversational skills are impressive. Perhaps waiting is a better fit for him than the kitchen?" Uozumi appeared out of nowhere to comment

"I hear he unwillingly cosplayed as a cat butler for a little while. Your immature scheme probably had less effect thanks of that experience, he really is lucky." Amami interjected. The group watched the scene unfold with various emotions. Most of them negative.

"No waaaay. It'd be social suicide if I got caught wearing that." One of customers Naegi tended to laughed.

"It's not that bad, once you look on the bright side. It doesn't phase me as badly anymore...but I'm still never putting on cat ears again." He pouted and was met with resounding teasing.

"This sucks. What do you think, Mak-" Shintaro frowned, while Maki...wasn't there anymore. Before he could blink, she had her way over to Naegi's station and tapped him on the shoulder.

"Harukawa-san, you're still here?" Naegi asked the waitress, who glowered at him

"I thought you were  the quiet type with how little you talked when we first met but it turns out you're pretty chatty." She said, eyes closed. Naegi had a feeling she wasn't happy.

"A-Are you mad?"

"I don't know. Have you given me a reason to be?" She snapped a little to hastily. 

"...I-I'll get to work now." Naegi shrunk back.

He was starting to think he had a secret talent for rubbing people the wrong way. 

Chapter Text

"Overcome the despair and shine-"

"The absolute hope is a die hard-"

"Absolute Hope's Birthday!"

This dazzlingly cheesy and incoherent song, was not coming from the mouths of teenagers. Nor was it even in the appropriate place or time, like at a karaoke session. In reality, this was a nightclub, emphasis on 'night'. It was 1 hour past midnight to be exact. In a dimly lit room, grown Japanese men filled the row of seats at the bar. All with disheveled clothing as a result of their drunken state, content smiles, finger snapping, singing falsetto (In English) and cheering (also in English).  

One Makoto Naegi stood behind the counter, eyes closed, arms robotically wiping a glass clean, and an utterly fake smile plastered on his face. The boy quietly reflecting on the life choices that brought him here.

...

"Good work." Harukawa said, near the end of Naegi's work shift at 9 pm.

"Thank you, Harukawa-san." Naegi beamed. The day went by quickly once he was put on waiting duty, and he met a few...friends (amiable customers?) on the shift too. He'd begun to think this job wouldn't be as rough as he initially believed.

"I was speaking to Amami. I doubt speaking with the customers all day counts as work." Harukawa-san was quick to remind him that he was often wrong. He supposed somebody had to fill the absent Kirigiri's role.

"Give him a break, Harukawa. He can't help it if the patrons called for him once or twice...or even fifteen times. Hahaha." Amami rushed to his aid.

"Yeah, and it's not like I decided to work in that station. It was Shintaro-san's fault...where is he anyway?"

"He left a while back. Something about being pissed off at not having anything to smoke." Harukawa replied, smoothly.

"Wonder why." Naegi gulped.

"Either way, I have my own job to do and there's nobody else here. I sent the remaining customers packing early." Harukawa must have been quite the trusted employee to be able to decide that for herself. "Rookies or no, the two of you can at least lock up?" 

The two boys shared a look, then nodded simultaneously.

"Great, the keys are on the counter. Close down in 30 minutes, you can clean the store until then." To clarify, Harukawa wasn't asking. She gave them orders that wouldn't stand for refutations. Naegi and Amami could only laugh awkwardly as she sauntered out of the store, carrying a large duffel bag along with her.

"She's definitely no helicopter mom, is she?" Amami sweat-dropped. Naegi would have to agree with the sentiment. That wasn't trust on the red-eyed girls part, she just didn't care. "Looks like it's just us."

The newly established roommates-coworkers split the cleaning between them. The entire establishment (as far as they had seen) was out of the question in such little time, but the floor they were on including the washrooms, were perfectly doable.

Naegi's attention was drawn to the sound of Amami's cell phone "Rantaro speaking...oh, that was today?" He asked bashfully, scratching his hair. "I'll be right there."

"I need to bail a bit early. It's real important." The avocado pleaded

Naegi didn't want to keep him...but he'd be lying if he wasn't scared to death about the responsibility being left on his shoulders.

"It's just locking up. I promise I'll make it up to you, like say a date?" Amami jokingly flirted.

"I-It's fine. I can handle it." Naegi blushed. 

"Thanks, I owe you one." 

With that, Amami fled Fantasia in a hurry, leaving Naegi to his own devices. The luckster checked his watch "Just a few minutes left..." 20 minutes till closing to be exact. Harukawa and Amami-kun should have been right. Nothing daunting could occur in such a small timeframe that even a new hire couldn't manage.

Naegi was wrong about a lot of things, this was another one, as he would learn nigh immediately.

The front door slammed open as a group of at least 20 men flew in, sparing him not a glance as they occupied the nearest seats. The once quiet room was thrown into a cacophony of yelling and curses. 

'Just my luck.'

"E-E-Excuse me, we were just about to close." Naegi approached the gruff-looking man at the center, designating him as the spokesman of the grup. His hair slicked back, had a scar running through the side of his face, an expensive white suit and... really just looked like your stereotypical yakuza.

"It's too early, and the sign outside says you're open!" Sounded like a stereotypical gangster too. This isn't too bad. Naegi's dealt with Owada after all. No offense to the biker.

"That's a misundersta-"

"Who the hell are you anyway? New meat?" Naegi couldn't discern if this was his regular voice or he was just angry.

"Uh...I think so?" Was new meat slang for newbie? "I'm-"

"Get that clown Akio out here!" The man stomped his foot on the ground.

Could they just let him finish one sentence!? "He's not here. I'm the only one available." Which was becoming an increasingly frightening prospect. These guys looked like thugs. What if they tore the place down? He'd be fired or worse!

"Someone get me an Old Fashioned." One of the thugs found his way to the bar while Naegi wasn't looking.  But...what did he expect Naegi to do? He didn't work there.

"Sorry, but I'm not the bartender. Like I said, we're-"

"You're telling a paying customer you won't serve them!?"

Dialogue was failing spectacularly, and As fat as Naegi knew, he was faced with three options:

"I...

>1. Roll with it

2. Run away
3. Stand my ground and refuse to serve"

"I-I gotcha. One Old Fashioned coming right up." Yeah right, like he had any idea how to make the stuff. Makoto got behind the counter, and suddenly found the stack of drinks to be much larger than he remembered. 'Which one do I pick?'  

The number of choices were greatly limited by the fact that Naegi was hardly tall enough to reach a good portion of the drinks. In a breakout of sweat and frizzing nerves, his hand reached for a lime-green bottle.

The moment his hands brushed against the cold surface, a fit of snickers erupted behind him.

'Okay, probably not that one. Maybe this.' He went for another.

The laughter grew louder.

Makoto sighed and turned around to face the grinning men. "Could you please tell me which bottle you want?" He said as politely as possible.

"You're the one working here, shouldn't you know?"

'Ah...so they were intentionally making this difficult. Swell...guess I'll just pick one at random.' This was what one would call a no-win scenario. 

Naegi grabbed the bottle and poured the contents in a glass, passing it to the rude customer. Said individual glanced at others in the room, sneers present among each and every single one.

The man shook his head. He picked up the glass of beer and... threw the liquid at Naegi. 

"What the hell!?" He yelled.

"What's that?" The man drawled out, standing from his seat. "You looking for blood?" He said, cracking his knuckles. Once the others began jeering for a fight, Naegi wondered if he wasn't actually dealing with a bunch of elementary students disguised as adults.

"If you don't want all your teeth knocked out of ya, make me a goddamn drink!" He pointed to a metal container.

Naegi sighed in frustration, taking the canister. He at least knew had to use this after observing Shintaro. 

The luckster grabbed two bottles next, leaving the quality up to chance. He opened both bottles and let both drinks flow in equal portions until the glass filled half-way, then added ice and sweeteners. He placed the canister overtop the glass to act as a lid and shook it between his hands, gulping all the while.

'How'd I get myself into this mess? Should I have been more skeptical of Komaeda?' He internally lamented. 

Naegi stopped shaking, leaving the contents in the metal container, brought out a strainer and poured the drink in.

"Here you go." He slid the drink over once again. He shook, fearing the drink would be thrown at him again. If that happened, he might as well just fight the guy and get put on a stretcher already. It'd save all of them some time.

"I asked for an Old Fashioned and I got some half-baked mix job." The man shook his head with a mocking smile.

"Don't waste the it this time, idiot. If it's crap, just don't pay for it." The one next to him spoke. Maybe I should just hand in my resignation already.

"Now you're talking." Jerk face gripped the glass and tasted it. "...W-ha?" He blinked. Then gulped the whole drink down and slammed the glass on the table "W-What the hell...is this?"

"That bad?" Jerkface#2 said 

"W-what?" Naegi made a confused look as tears started to fall from the man's eyes. Now he's exaggerating, it couldn't have sucked that much.

"My daughter...I can see her face."

""Huh?"" so eloquently said the entire club, Naegi included.

Naegi stepped back as Jerk face gazed at him with reverence in his eyes, as if he'd stumbled onto the truth of the cosmos. "Please, one more."

""HUH!?"" The bar flew into a frenzy.

"Just...do it again." He begged.

Naegi found it impossible to refuse those eyes; what were once the orbs containing viciousness and savagery transformed into luster purer than a child's. 

"Uh...here." Naegi made another. 

This time, he drank it about half-way before stopping. His companions had all left their seats and crowded around him with transparent curiosity. Each of them gulped more nervously than Naegi did moments before. They all eagerly awaited the response.

"He...hehe..ahaha." He laughed gently as an understanding formed on his lips. "Brothers...it has been...a rough journey...both good and bad. But it was worth it, all for this." He stared dreamily at the glass he held in the air. "I have reached Nirvana."

Makoto Naegi had never been more confused by anything in his entire life. 

Jerk face (Who he felt could hardly be called such anymore) passed the glass to Jerkface#2. "Drink." He commanded. The second drank with hesitation. 

"Well, how is it?" The man with the scar asked.

"...Yuriko...I was a fool. Come back!" His head was placed down on the counter, sobbing uncontrollably.

Naegi looked at the bottles in his hands. 'There...aren't any drugs in these bottles, are there? Hm? The confused boy read the titles on the both bottles. "Spirytus and Balkan." What were those?

"Bartender." Scar said. "Pour me a glass." The man placed an obscene amount of cash on the table.

"Me too." "Me." "Over here." Like chorus, more chimed in. But Naegi was having bigger problems.

"I have lived a good life." "Yurikooooooooooooo!"

"Forget the beer. They're clearly hallucinating. Someone call the hospital!" He yelled. This was definitely not normal. Unfortunately for him, normality had left the building, and these men weren't taking no for an answer. So Naegi was forced to replicate the cocktail again and again until the bottles finally emptied. Men were sprawled around the club trapped in a state of euphoria and bliss.

In the meanwhile, Naegi had learned to work the counter. Where else would he put all the money?

"My name is Tora Fujimaru, of the Kuzuryu clan. Call me Tora." Said the man with the scar. He seemed to hold his liquor far better than the intoxicated others. Though that may not have said much, with the redness on his cheeks spelling he wasn't far from the drunken realm.

"Kuzuryu? Do you guys work for Fuyuhiko?" He recalled his upperclassman's first name. If they were Yakuza, then they might have been related.

Tora's eyes widened before dropping low as "You are cruel, Brother."

"Eh?" Wait...brother?

"To think you were even acquainted with the young lord. We are not worthy." As if to prove the statement. The yakuza prostrated dogeza style, and all the others followed.

"N-No it's fine. Really...you can stand." 'And go home' He so desperately wanted to add.

"An Old Fashioned. Let me teach you." Tora said out of the blue as he stood on his feet.

"That's not necessary." He wasn't a bartender.

"Things are heating up in the underworld thanks to the Yukimarus and we were a little on edge. Please...allow us this honor, as recompense for our inexcusable behavior, Brother." 

Ah...so "brother" was going to be a thing after all. 

Naegi sighed and then smiled. "What the heck, it's an experience." That was the third time he'd been stupendously mistaken in a single day, as he was about find out.

Tora sat on the counter and instructed. "You'll need a muddler for stirring, sugar, bitter, ice and bourbon to start. If you have any, add in soda and lemons."

"Bourbon?" Naegi asked.

"Whiskey. Over there. Bitters should be next to it too." Tora pointed to a transparent glass with liquor colored a light brown. Naegi procured the glass, along with the other items requested of him, save the lemons. Instead he made do by peeling an orange.

"We had some soda in the fridge, thankfully." He said.

Tora raised his hand "Next step is important. You need an old-fashioned glass."

"Why?" Naegi asked, doing as instructed regardless. 

"It's all about the presentation. There's more to a good beverage than getting a bunch of clowns drunk."

Naegi nodded. First was to dip a teaspoon full of sugar into the glass. Tora told Naegi to add 3 dashes of bitters, with an small count of soda to balance out the taste. Naegi then stirred the cocktail with the muddler for a few moments. A large ice cube came afterwards, followed by another mix. Finally, he filled the glass with bourbon, thus completing the cocktail. The orange slice was placed on the glass for atmospheric effect.

"I... think it's ready." Naegi finally spoke.

Tora picked up the glass and toasted. "An Old Fashioned...this baby has been around since the 1800s, invented by James Pepper in America. My own grandma wouldn't have been old enough to see it's debut. This drink reminds you of the times and how, despite our age differences, we're all really brats. Some are just smarter than others." A solemn smile made its way onto his lips, as did the cocktail.

"Magnificent." He spread his arms wide open and cheers from the house sprung forth. "Everybody gets one. It's all on me, boys!" And the cheers grew louder.

...

And that brought Naegi to the present. Where his hands were blistered and tired at having served nearly 2 dozen men repeatedly. To the extent that he'd emptied a large fraction of the beverages on the counter. The spiky-haired boy didn't even want to think about how he'd explain this the following evening.

Eventually, the men grew tired (about time) and decided to call it a day. Around half were too buzzed to walk and had to rely on the shoulders of their "brothers" to merely stand. Naegi saw them all to the door. "We'll be closing now (hours ago) guys." His fake smile was still present. It wasn't like he hated them or anything, but rather he'd been struck by such incredulity this night, that he opted for going on cruise control. 'Whatever happens, happens' and the best-case scenario was that he woke up to a really weird dream.

"This was a glorious night, Brother. We won't forget this."

Naegi wasn't sure if he could trust the words of a drunk. They probably would forget all about him thankfully.

"DUMBASSES!" Tora, nearly too far gone to remain standing yelled at the top of his lungs, somewhat sobering the others up.

"What is it?" Naegi asked.

"Forgive us." He was about to bow again, but Naegi caught him first. "Anything but that. You guys get on your knees again, and I'm worried you won't be able to stand, period." That means they'll also never leave.

"Your name. We forgot to ask." Gasps spread across the room.

"It's no big deal. You guys are going through a lot. Hehehehe." Naegi smiled.

"Tell us." 

"I'm Makoto Naegi. It was...eventful meeting you all. Please come again...during opening hours next time." Naegi opened the door for all them to depart at last. They all made one final round of cheers before stepping through.

Naegi felt a wave of exhaustion pass through him as he closed the door...then looked to the...and found it was a giant, bloody mess. He slumped down against a wall and curled his legs. He wanted to cry...but he'd settle for a short nap. He'd wake up in an hour or so...clean up (again), then lock up and head home.

As for classes...to hell with them.

---

A band of 20 men walked through the streets at night. Well, not so much walked, as drifted; their legs moving sluggishly. A sign that they were still inebriated.

"I need another drink." One started.

"Me too"

"Me three."

"Akio sure has an eye for talent. I'd pay money a fortune to see that boy up against Kayama."

"I'll never have to go to Ginza again."

"...What was his name again?"

"Fools. How the hell did you forget!?" Tora bopped them on the head.

"You remember, boss?"

"'Course I do. It's..." The scarred man rubbed his temples. "Crap, can't think right now. Anyone got ideas."

"Let's think about this real hard...Right...his surname had an 'N'...and an 'A' after it."

"Na...there was an 'I' too."

"And a 'G'."

"I remember!" Tora snapped his fingers. 

"Yeah me too!"

"It was..."

The yakuza screamed his name to the heavens "Praise, Brother Nagi!"

Chapter Text

"Let me get this straight? You were left alone...for only half-an-hour...yet you, by yourself, without anyone's permission, kept Fantasia running till past midnight?"

Naegi sat on his knees, head held down as punishment. What was originally meant to be a short nap ended up being a full-blown sleep period. The high school student was gently (kicked) woken up by his aggressive senior, Shintaro. His anger might have been justified, seeing as the establishment was still a mess from the previous night. It was 6:15 in the morning with Amami, Shintaro, Harukawa, Hoshi, Akio, Uozumi and nameless workers were present. Amami shot Naegi an apologetic look.

"Why didn't you tell them to leave!?" The bartender clawed at Naegi's skull.

"Ow ow ow. I tried They wouldn't listen. They wouldn't even let me finish talking. What was I supposed to do!?" Naegi whined, his hands grabbing at the older man's wrists, but completely failing to pry the arm itself away.

"Kick their ass and throw them out!"

"Excuse me?" Naegi wailed. 

"That's just unreasonable." Hoshi sat on the counter, puffing a smoke. "But why was he alone in the first place? Shouldn't Maki and yourself have been there?"

"Maki, explain this!" Shintaro yelled at the stoic waitress.

"You were included too, you know?" Harukawa bit her finger. "I didn't think he was so incompetent that he could mess it up. It was only for 30 minutes." 

"Give me one good reason why I shouldn't fire you on the spot." Shintaro returned to glaring at Naegi with crossed his arms.

At this point, Naegi himself didn't necessarily mind that outcome. Nevertheless, he might as swell take credit for his work. "I...made a ton of money?"

...There was silence until "Come again?" Shintaro blinked

"It's true. The cash register is overflowing with bills, there's actually more receipts in the drawers. Violation of working conditions aside...we can't say he wasn't productive." Uozumi said, searching behind the counter. "That was several days worth of alcohol sold in hours. We'll have to restock."

"S-So? Who cares about the money?" Shintaro scoffed.

All hands in the room raised.

"Now now, calm down everyone." Akio said, turning to the luckster with a curious gaze and a scratch of his beard. "Naegi-kun, I believe you told me you had no experience in an establishment such as this. How were you able to care for these gentlemen?"

"Uh. I mixed some drinks and they liked it a lot. Then Tora-san taught me how to make an Old-Fashioned and...there went the house." Naegi showed his reddened fingers.

"Explains the clutter of empty whiskey." Uozumi commented.

"Interesting. Could you show us, if you are able?" Akio smiled.

Naegi nodded, stood on his feet and wobbled to the counter. The rest was like clockwork. Naegi's made this cocktail so many times last night, that he barely needed to concentrate. He didn't notice he'd made one for each of them instead of just Akio. "Your drink, Brother."

"Brother?" Hoshi asked, sitting closest to the ahoge.

Naegi shook his head, snapping out of his trance "Ignore that, please."

"Ain't this a waste of good alcohol." Shintaro took a swig. Naegi comically noted the familiarity of those words...and how they were quickly silenced. All eyes widened dramatically at the first sip of their drinks.

"Well?" Naegi asked. 

"Go home, and remember to come back in the evening. Rantaro, you go with him." Shintaro ordered.

"Come on, Naegi. We'll get you in bed in a second." Amami grabbed the shorter boy the arm, who didn't have the strength to resist. 

The brown-haired bartender watched the two boys exit the door. Then looked to the glass in his hands, utterly mystified. "You guys...isn't this kind of awesome?"

---

For Sayaka Maizono, this day started out like any other. She was a gal that lived by what she dubbed to be, the 'perfect code'. That is to say, she held herself to unreasonable standards and took whatever steps to ensure immaculacy; that included waking at dawn to practice vocal exercises, not caring about waking or disturbing the dorm-mates next door. Sounds were insulated and didn't carry out of the rooms. Even a murder attempt, were it to happen next door, would go unheard. After a morning shower, Maizono spent the better part of her pre-morning preparations on fixing her hair. The idol couldn't count how many times she'd had to convince others that Sayaka Maizono, did not in fact, dye her hair blue. She was born with this hair color, and it was ridiculous to think that she'd go out of her way to make it blue.

"A girl's got to work with what she's got." And she put that belief into practice in every aspect of her life. Brushing excessively  was no exception. Maizono made sure to appear her very best each day, without leaving so much as a blemish of imperfection on her body. This was the lifestyle of the Ultimate Pop Sensation.

If there was a difference today...it was that Naegi didn't show up to class. She hadn't seen him since the egghunt (as Leon called it) yesterday afternoon. The spiky-haired boy was never one to skip classes, he was ordinary in that regard, and she preferred it that way. With how chaotic show business was, Maizono had developed an appreciation for the simpler things in life, and simple fit Naegi to a 't'. "I hope he's not sick...Alright, I'll pay him a visit." She decided, skipping to the boy's dorm immediately after class. If he was sick, then she would drop everything to take care of him. That was also another duty of hers - to attend to the needs of her fans. Her dream began with a sudden inspiration from a popular idol on television. That idol group was long gone, but back then, they were like shining stars to the bluenette. Maizono wanted to leave a similar impression on her fans and to do that, she could not ever come across as incapable. If she accepted a request for help, she would see it done to the best of her ability...that meant completed without fail.

Three knocks on his door and still no reply. "Is he not in?" Her answer came when the door knob twisted, opened and revealed a mousy Naegi sporting the worst case of bedhead she'd ever seen. 

"Maizono-san. Good morning?" He...asked?

"Naegi-kun...it's almost 4 in the afternoon." Maizono said. He didn't look sick, so she could only assume he pulled an all-nighter and just woke up. The question was for what. "May I come in?"

The boy nodded and let her pass through the door. When Maizono stepped in, she detected a separate scene from Naegi. It was perfume...which the boy in question never wore. "How was working overtime?" Maizono asked out of the blue.

Naegi spluttered "How did..."

"I'm psychic." Not true, she just had very good intuition. The class had been abuzz about the Lucky student's suspicious behavior as of late. He'd leave for hours and return late at night. The same went true for the previous day when they'd ran around the class chasing him. The idol briefly considered Naegi might have a secret girlfriend - which admittedly coincided with the faint perfume - however...there was no reason to hide that from anyone. On the other hand, a person fitting Naegi's description was seen working at a maid cafe. This information had been acquired from Maizono's own sources. Then she entertained the idea that he'd gotten a part-time job, but was it embarrassing enough to keep secret? The picture saved on her phone of a butler Naegi in frills and cat ears would say yes. "Don't worry Naegi. I know all about it."

Naegi sighed, giving up. He shouldn't have expected to hide this from his best friend. "You...won't tell anyone right?" He asked, fearfully.

"My lips are sealed." What'd he take her for? Her trade relied on her being able to keep secrets. "I'm impressed you can work there. Customer service is never easy."

"Tell me about it. The customers were insane...and wouldn't let me go home." He pouted.

Maizono giggled giggled. "That just goes to show how much they like you. You've got an attractive personality."

"They were jerks at first...but I think they warmed up to me by the end." Naegi's features relaxed. 

"Everyone does." She rolled her eyes, easily imagining Naegi teased relentlessly by other guys for that outfit. "Do you need the money?"

"Yeah, I was flat broke when I started." He scratched his cheek. A common tell for whenever he got embarrassed. Which was pretty much all the time. But...did he really spent almost 30 000 yen in a month? Naegi wasn't the extravagant type...but she supposed it was possible. There was also the strong possibility that he could have lost it or something.

"Tell you what, why don't I help you out a little." Maizono proposed.

"How?"

"Part of your job is appeal, Naegi. That means you need to put more effort into how you present youself. You know; clothes and stuff."

The boy touched his chin, looking deep in thought. "You're right. Some of the women yesterday did make fun of my appearance. What'd you have in mind?"

"We can't exactly find you clothes on the spot but...I can take of your hair." She'd always wanted a crack at that mophead.

"Sure, what do you have in mind?" He beamed.

"I'll go back to my room and get supplies. Just wait here a bit."

Maizono left and returned with a bucket filled with hair products and overflowing enthusiasm. 

"Now lie back in a chair, Naegi." She said, excitedly.

"You're really into this, aren't you?" He scratched his cheek, doing as instructed.

Truth be told, most of her equipment were for girls, but he didn't need to know that. The Ultimate Pop Sensation may as well have doubled as a hairstylist for how long she spent each morning taking care of hers; even her bandmates on occasion. She needed to look perfect, after all. Men's hair weren't much different anyway...probably. 

Sayaka Maizono stressed perfection, because that was the standard expected of her. Thus, she'd make Naegi look perfect by extension.

That...that was how it was supposed to go, but she was wrong. As Maizono found out after repeated failures.

"This...can't be happening." Maizono took deep, heavy breaths, fatigued by the obstacle she'd been unable to overcome. "Why...why won't that thing go down?" She referred to that think crooked antennae  that took residence atop the boy's head. She threw nearly everything at it, yet it withstood it all, like some impregnable fortress.

"Yeah, I've tried getting rid of it before. It's like, super-resistant to everything." Naegi laughed. "It's fine if you can't get do it, Maizon-san."

"If...I can't get rid of it?" Maizono repeated every single word, a shadow cast over her face as she smiled.

"Huh? You okay, Maizono-san?" Naegi asked.

 Yup, why do you ask?" 

"No...reason." He said, hesitantly.

"Let's not give up yet, Naegi. I've got a secret weapon." It was the strongest hair spray in her possession. Maybe a bit too strong for a man, but who cared about that right now? No, all that mattered was winni- making Naegi look the best he can!

The luckster coughed and moved his head away as she sprayed the hair. "Stay." Maizono commanded with such authority, that he froze in place instantly. From there she brushed his hair (a little harshly) and managed to get the pain in the ass to recede at last.

Maizono smiled. "There we go now wait here while I get a towel." She motioned to her bag to reach for a warm towel...only to drop it when she saw the boy's antennae standing up in full bloom once again.

"Doesn't look like it worked. Maybe we should call it quits, I need to get re...ady...Maizono?" Naegi turned around to see the bluenette staring at him with abject horror. Well, not him as she wasn't meeting his eyes. Instead her gaze were slightly upwards his.

"I...I don't believe it!" She said, gazing at his hair as if it were some monstrosity from outer space. "I'm not going to lose to that stupid hair!"  (TN: Ahoge means stupid hair)

"Hey! It's not stupid." He reached for the ahoge with both hands. "Wow, my hair's totally silky."

"Naegi-kun." Maizono said, her tone low and menacing. "Be quiet."

The boy raised his eyebrow in confusion "Are you sure you're doing alright?"

"I'm going to get rid of that hair, one way or another."

Just then, he saw the shimmering flash of metal as Maizono brandished a knife from her skirt.

"M-M-Maizono-san!?"

"Why are you scared? I'm only getting rid of a little problem." She grit her teeth, waving the knife at him. Ever since taking the mantle of pop sensation, she had never failed in any of her endeavors, she wouldn't start now.

"You can't cut it off that way, that's insane! And...where were you hiding that knife?"

"That doesn't matter." Maizono said. "This is between me and it. It doesn't involve you."

"I am very involved!" Naegi panicked, and tried to sidestep the crazed idol. Shame he was too slow as she tackled him to the bed, knife raised just above his head.

"Maizono, stop!" He said, holding her knife arm by the wrist.

"Not...until...I take it off." 

"Am I...interrupting something?"

The struggling duo froze and slowly turned their head to the door. A tall, green-haired boy with model-esque looks observed them with a neutral expression. Maizono was quickly reminded of how compromising her position was and jumped away from Naegi.

"Nothing at all." Maizono said sweetly, hiding the knife behind her back.

"Amami-kun, you're back." Naegi said, sitting upright on the bed. They knew each other?

"I was with a friend. I brought lunch, but if I'm getting in your way, I can leave." His eyes shifted between them.

"It's really not what you're thinking. Maizono was helping me with my hair." Naegi said, waving his hands.

"Yes, exactly that. I...might have gone a little overboard though." She laughed.

Amami exhaled. "I see, that's a relief. I thought this would be a repeat of the love hotel I roomed in once. Ah, that was a pretty messy situation."

"What happened?" Naegi asked.

"What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas."

"Um...are you a student in our year? I've never seen you before." He seemed like the flashy type that'd be hard to miss too. And from his scent, she discerned he was the origin of the perfume she'd smelled earlier.

"I'm Rantaro Amami. Naegi's co-worker. Pleased to meet you, Maizono." 

"I'm letting him room here for a while." Naegi claimed.

"We're allowed to do that?" She asked, not taking her eyes off the green-haired boy. 

"Not really? I'd like you to keep this a secret too, please." He rubbed the back of his neck.

"I will...if you um...forget what happened a few minutes ago." She laughed awkwardly.

"Already did." He smiled.

"If you're trying to fix Naegi's hair, I could lend a hand." Amami said.

"I don't even care anymore. It's impossible" Maizono shook her head.

"Trust me on this." Amami insisted.

Maizono remained skeptical, but gave Amami free reign over her products. He took the cans and gel to the bathroom, where he locked the door behind him.

"What's he doing there?" She asked. Naegi shrugged having no clue himself. 

"Just be careful around him okay? You never really know what people are like." She advised. Everyone has two sides to them. "He hasn't tried extorting you or anything suspicious right?"

"Amami's not like that. I guess he gives off a shady aura, but he's a good guy." Naegi argued.

Naegi was a bit too trusting, and she didn't want him to be taken advantage of. On the other hand, once Naegi decided to follow through and help someone, he became as stubborn as an ox. So far, Amami seemed capable...and more than anything, mysterious. The idol decided need to learn all she could about him.

Amami finally came out of the washroom. " You had just the right hair spray for me to mix. Try this." He tossed her a bottle.

Maizono instructed Naegi to sit and sprayed the contents on his hair, then combed it down. 

"Did it work?" Naegi asked.

"We'll see in a minute." She frowned, not holding out hope after what happened last time. 30 seconds past and...still no ahoge. "I-It worked?" She whispered, incredulous. After a full minute without the antenna resurfacing, she lightly jumped into the air, fist raised.  "I did it...I won!" 

"It's...rare to see Maizono like this.." Naegi smiled.

"Exciteful girls are cute. No complaints here." Amami said, arms at his hips.

The idol finally regained her composure and looked down at the brown, not-so-spiky-haired luckster "...Forget you saw that too. Amami-kun, how'd you do that?" She bashfully shifted the attention to the stranger.

"I have tons of little sisters. Makeup, nails, hair-styling, I can do it all." He boasted. So he had siblings, that's one clue about she could use.

"Lucky. I've always wanted a little sister. Maizono cooed "Komaru's adorable too, Nae-..." Maizono stopped upon looking at the brown-haired boy.

"Hey, shouldn't we be getting ready? It'll take us a while to get to the store." Amami said.

Naegi nodded. "I'll be in class tomorrow. We can talk more then, Maizono."

"R-Right." The bluenette said, "Have a nice day..." She closed the door behind them. She trekked down the hallway in a state of immense confusion. Often she would turn back to direction of Naegi's room to ascertain that she had really been in his room. 

"That...was Naegi, right?" She wore a dumbfounded expression. Had she not witnessed the transition of his ahoge's recession take place personally...she might not have recognized him at all.

Chapter Text

"Yo, Harukawa." Amami said

The waitress gave him a nod of acknowledgement. Her gaze fell on Naegi for a moment, then switched back to Amami. "Where's the other one? You two are usually stuck at the hip." 

"Is this a trick question?" The avocado replied, sharing the same confused expression Naegi wore. 

"Maki!" The twin-tails' name was called. "Pain in the ass." She complained then stomped away.

Naegi scratched his cheek. "I think she's still mad at me." But she didn't have to pretend he wasn't there. Talk about passive-aggression.

"She'll get over it." Amami patted him on the shoulder.

The two boys made their way to the cocktail lounge, where Shintaro spotted them. "Ah, you made it." His speech abruptly cut off when Naegi came into his sights. He looked like a man trying to solve an intense riddle. Even when he stumbled across the answer, he wasn't sure it was the correct one. "You...look...different?"

"A friend slicked my hair back." Naegi said.

"...Good for them." He said. "Rantaro, you're working with Maki permanently from now on. As for the brat, starting from today, you'll be working with me at the bar. Otherwise, you'll alternate to go help out Rantaro and Maki with the customers."

"I have a name you know." Naegi pouted.

"Do you now? I'll remember it." He offers a listless smirk.

...

The time passed by relatively smoothly. Naegi hadn't made any drinks yet. His senior handled all the orders while he washed the glasses and fetched the necessary items. Still, Naegi wasn't one to spend his time idly; he studied Shintaro's actions as he took orders. Compared to Naegi's, his methods were far more graceful and elaborate. The patrons were also satisfied and orderly, nothing like the bunch he'd had to deal with the previous night. Was that because they were more upstanding or because Naegi was lacking in authority?

It was a bit of both - he concluded. One more peculiarity he noted was Shintaro's tendency to carry a conversation with every customer that initiated one. That is to say, he listened intently to whatever arbitrary tale was brought up and advised them whenever necessary. He was accommodating in ways that Naegi didn't expect of the immature man.

"Naegi, the manager's calling you." Amami came to meet him.

"Any idea what for?" He asked.

"Nothing too serious, I bet. He called me in to see how I was holding up." Amami shrugged, then took Naegi to where Akio awaited him. "Good luck."

...

Akio, the manager of the establishment invited him in to a small office. Naegi sat down, facing him, shoulders tense.

 "You may relax. I merely wish to find out how you've been coping here. Be honest." The old man smiled.

A normal Q&A. Amami-kun was right.

"I'm...not too sure. I haven't really been able to connect with anyone." Discounting Amami...Harukawa, Uozumi and Shintaro were the three he'd interacted with, all unfriendly in their own ways. Harukawa seemed to have some personal vendetta against him, though Naegi was certain he hadn't done much to cause it. Uozumi embodied the concept of "just business". She was only approachable only if a matter concerned work. Shintaro was probably the most flexible of the three, but he was also an asshole.

"I'm sorry to hear that...And the work environment?"

That was also a bit too early to say, the most experience had come from the previous evening. While he'd initially been irritated beyond imagining, it was an amusing memory in hindsight. "I think it's an interesting experience. I get to explore a different side of life that I'm not used to. It can get a bit rough, but I can't say I hate it."

"I see. Curiosity is what drives you? Not even money?" The old man teased.

"I... kind of forgot." That advance paycheck was already enough to wipe out his immediate worries, he'd forgotten all about his initial finance dilemma.

Akio chuckled. "I can imagine why. Now, onto the real reason I've called you. Shintaro-kun thinks you have promise as a bartender. Would you agree?"

"Wait what, really?" Naegi's eyes widened. "I mean...why?"

"He appears to have been taken by the drink you made earlier this morning...among other things."

"Um...I'm flattered?" Though he really didn't know if he should be.

"Does this bother you?" Akio picked up on his hesitation.

"A little. Don't you think it's inappropriate for someone my age to be serving drinks?" Naegi couldn't deny that a part of him felt a bit scummy.

"That perspective is justified if you believe only negative connotations exist to liquor." The manager interlocked his fingers.

"I think Tora-san, said something similar yesterday, I can't remember all too well."  He miraculously managed to remain awake all night. 

"He is an intelligent man, once you look past his foolishness." Whatever sense that made. Then again, the yakuza did have a few lines that impressed the boy. Naegi folded his arms, trying to recall the event. In the mean time, Akio had gotten a glass of water and placed it in front of him

"Drink. It's water."

After verifying that important tidbit, Naegi consumed it. 

"What do you think?" The old man asked.

"About water? It's not bad." He searched for whether there was some hint he was meant to catch onto.

"But not delicious either. So why do we drink it every single day?"

"We kind of need it to live." Naegi thought that should've been obvious.

With calculating eyes, Akio continued. "Indeed...water is the spring of life. Without it, we would perish...and yet, intake too much and you'd die all the same."

'Oh, that's what he meant.' It was a no brainer to consider what happened when your system got flooded with water.

"Anything can become toxic when misused. Alcohol is little different." Akio said.

"That analogy sounds unfair. Water's a necessity, alcohol's a luxury." One that was inherently bad for the body at that.

"That is true. But I implore you to consider...what is wrong with luxury?" Akio laughed, in the manner of an elder lecturing his grandson. "Luxury is in of itself a necessity; a constant reminder of what is worthwhile in life."

"I get the theory, but in practice..." Maybe he was just disenfranchised by all the ads of bad drunks...or literally what happened yesterday. Or maybe it was just Hagakure...yeah it was probably Hagakure.

"There is no need to feel guilty. Alcohol is a culture that has persisted for centuries. Bartenders are purveyors of that culture, not bearers of poison." Akio said.

They heard a knock on the door. Before anyone could even answer, Shintaro stepped through, his hazel eyes almost glimmering with malice. "Nagi here?"

"It's Naegi." He rolled his eyes.

A snake-like grin appeared on Shintaro's face, as if Naegi's response was exactly what he wanted. "Mhm, sure it is. There's a customer requesting your services." 

Me? "I... have a bad feeling about this." And his instincts were right.

---

"Don't tell me you dipshits have been playing around here!" Like water from a fountain, incessant curses sprang from a teenage boy, who would not look out of place in a middle school. He had short blond hair, freckles on his cheeks, and a wore a black tailored-suit. His name was Fuyuhiko Kuzuryu, besides him was an unfamiliar, grey-haired girl with braids...and what looked to be a sword on her back.

Of course, Naegi knew him full well...they went to school together...and that was the problem.  

'I'm busted!'  Naegi feared. He turned to Shintaro, signaling an S.O.S. He couldn't be seen working at a bar. It was illegal!

"No. This is interesting." Shintaro was no savior of his.

"Not at all, young lord." Tora Fujimaru sat with Kuzuryu and the unnamed girl, each on bar-stools. "I know no better place to entertain at the meeting coming up." Naegi noticed the yakuza was a lot more serious than he remembered. Likely because of who he brought with him.

"Yo, Tora. Heard you put my new employee through the ringer last night." Shintaro, the jerk, drew attention to Naegi.

"Don't I know this guy?" Kuzuryu unfortunately asked

"Him?" He observed Naegi until something slowly clicked. "Brother Nagi!" Why'd it take so long to recognize me? 

'And it's Naegi!' How drunk were you!?' He deeply wanted to scream but doing so...right next to Kuzuryu was a bad idea. If anything, the older Yakuza's misunderstanding was a blessing in disguise. Had Tora remembered his full name, then he'd be finished. 

"Must have had too much to drink. I barely remembered your face." Tora continued. Explains that...

"Nagi?" Kuzuryu said those words with uncertainty.

"Is something the matter, Young Master." The girl next to him finally spoke. From the sounds of it, she was also Kuzuryu's subordinate.

"This guy's looking real familiar to me, Peko." Kuzuryu dissected Naegi with his eyes. "We met before?" 

"Um...maybe?" Naegi lied.

"The voice is familiar too..." The ultimate babyface snapped his fingers. "I got it. You look just like that Makoto Naegi kid that was with Komaeda."

"The underclassman you feared would 'usher in the apocalypse' along with Komaeda-kun?" The woman with the sword added. An undertone of sarcasm evident in her voice.

"Nah, there's something different, but I can't put my finger it. What's your name?"

This was the moment of the truth. Makoto Naegi was put on the spot, therefore was forced to use every ounce of cunning and ingenuity he possessed to disguise his true identity...

"I'm Motoko Nagi." He said, putting on the brightest, most convincing smile he could.

"Pfft." Shintaro covered his mouth with his hand, his shoulders shaking.

"The name sounds the same too. What a coincidence." Kuzuryu remarked...weirdly enough. Could the blonde really not recognize him?

'D-Did he buy it? Am I in the clear?'

"Could there not be the possibility that he is lying?" Spoke too soon. Peko, as she was called, had yet to be convinced "If he is a student, I can't imagine he'd want to be discovered here." Naegi inched away from the girl, hoping to avoid her discerning gaze.

Kuzuryu scrunched his face, looking deep in thought. "Nah, it's definitely not him. The more I look, the more the differences stand out."

Naegi creased his eyebrow. 'Huh? What differences. All I did was fix my hair a little.'

"What differences?" The swordswoman inquired.

Kuzuryu forehead creased, analyzing Naegi as best he could.

"Like, the face is different." 'No, it's not..."

"He's taller." 'Wrong.'

"Naegi looks like he couldn't hurt a fly. This guy's got a meaner look, like he's been in a few brawls." 'What does that even mean!?'

Seriously, what was this guy's deal?

"Really..." Grey-hair didn't appear convinced by her master - nor should she have been - with the way she looked at him.

"No point worrying about it. Brother, Hit us up with a Manhattan." Naegi never thought he'd be so grateful for Tora asking for another drink.

"Whatever." Kuzuryu said.

"Same."

"Coming right up. Shin...." Naegi looked to his side and found the bartender disappeared. He turned back to the counter and found Shintaro sitting on the bar stools alongside the other 3.

"Why are you over there?" Naegi wondered.

"This is training, now make." He said, flipping his hand.

Now? No wait, wasn't there a more important problem?  "We don't serve minors."  Naegi told Fuyuhiko.

"What was that?" "Brother..." "We don't?" Kuzuryu, Tora and Shintaro said, in that order. Wasn't one of those response particularly worrying?

"Of course, we don't." Naegi pointed at Shintaro. 

"News to me. Since when?" The bartender asked, genuinely confused, which only heightened Naegi's confusion. The answer was simple: "It's against the law." Naegi proclaimed. He wasn't sure why everyone who heard him turned to look his way, immediately dropping what they were doing. Either the workers or the patrons in the middle of their meals.

Kuzuryu, Tora and Shintaro - who were at the forefront - turned to face each other...slowly cracking smiles

"Ha.." "Hahaha...."

"Ahahahahahahahhahahaha!" The men burst into uncontrollable laughter, slamming their hands on the table. Everyone else who heard Naegi followed.

Only the grey-haired girl remained impassive, staring at him with a mix of suspicion and pity.

"W-What'd I say?" Naegi fumed with reddened cheeks.  Why were they laughing? 

"'I-It's against the law' He says.'" Kuzuryu was the first to recover...to the point that he could utter words amidst his laughter anyway. "O-Oh man. If you were trying to kill me with a joke, just say so."

"You sure picked up a good one, boss." Tora smacked Shintaro on the shoulder, still chuckling to himself.

"J-Just give them what they asked for, brat. There won't be a problem." Shintaro said, wiping tears from his eyes.

"I give up." Naegi sighed loudly, then turned to the quiet girl "And you?"

"Water is fine." She replied.

"Will do, Miss..."

"Peko Pekoyama." She gave her name. That was...a lot cuter than he'd expected from someone so (apparently) serious. Still, she was normal and that was a very much welcomed change of pace right now. He served Pekoyama first then, went onto making the cocktails.

"Isn't this the part where you ask me to teach you how?" Shintaro stared expectantly.

Naegi threw him an annoyed look, not wanting to give him any satisfaction. "I saw you make a Manhattan earlier. I think I can manage."

"Tch." 

Naegi procured a bottle of Canadian "rye" whiskey. Bourbon could have acted as a substitute...if not for the distinct lack of any on the counter. The next ingredient was Italian made Sweet Vermouth. 

He brought out three wine glasses and a pitcher.

Naegi learned the trick to the drink's deliciousness was in the ice. He'd seen Shintaro pay a great deal of attention into how he stirred each glass. Due to his inexperience, Naegi couldn't confirm the importance of the ice in a cocktail, thus he relied on base logic. Currently, they were in the club's peak hours, that meant heat in the establishment was relatively high. Consequently, the ice would thaw faster into the cocktail...and that would dilute the taste. 

He used 4 dashes of bitters, then poured 2 ounces the vermouth and whiskey. Afterwards Naegi added 4 large ice-cubes to optimize taste through coldness. Balance was the key to this cocktail, both in the amounts of liquor and the ice. He stirred the contents with a spoon, enough that the ice would have the needed effect but not too much that the ice would melt. He did this for roughly a minute before placing a strainer atop the pitcher to keep the cubes in and poured the cocktail evenly into the three wine glasses.

"Please drink it quickly." Naegi advised as he placed the glasses in front of the customers.

The 2 and a half musketeers gobbled the beverage down, mouths forming a smile as the taste graced their tongue and lips.

"Hey, this is fucking great." Kuzuryu grinned.

"I told you, young lord. Nagi here is something special." Tora placed the glass down.

"Thanks." Naegi muttered monotonously. He wasn't especially happy to be praised for violating the law.

"Yeah pretty good, amazing I'd say...for a brat who might as well have read off a cheat-sheet." Shintaro placed the glass down.

"Well excuse me for not-"

"What's the secret behind a Manhattan?" Shintaro cut him off, an uncharacteristically serious expression on his features.

Naegi stiffened. "I don't really know. It wasn't all too different from the Old Fashioned, yesterday."

"You stirred their Old Fashioned yesterday right? Smart, but why not shake?"

"To preserve the coldness."

He chuckled. "That's only one aspect. You shake to aerate, give the drink a foamy look. The other reason is so the ice and fruit inside break and mix. You'd never shake a Manhattan or an Old Fashioned, because it's completely alcoholic and you're looking for purity."

He picked up the glass and tilted it to the side. "A Manhattan is just an iconic drink. Simple to make...but complex to make right. Your mixing was sloppy too. It's not enough to just hope for balance through timing. With real skill, you can stir the ice without having the cubes collide with each other, make them dance in unison." He glowered with contempt "But man...you'd serve your customers a drink without understanding its intricacies or origins? Try that in the field of medicine and you're looking at a lawsuit the instant you're caught fucking up." 

Naegi frowned. He hated to admit it, but Shintaro had a point. Nevertheless, that was an unfair criticism to make when the older man forced Naegi to make it in the first place.

"If you understand that, then-" Shintaro was cut off when a metal tray planted itself on the top of his head. Harukawa stood behind him, sporting her patented glare. "What the hell, Maki!?" The man clutched his head.

"Like you're in a position to lecture anyone. Aren't you the one acting out just because you weren't being relied on?" The red-eyed girl placed one hand on her hip, looking at the bartender with evident disdain.

"Shut up. What do you want anyway?" Shintaro stuck his tongue out at her.

"I've reached my daily limit with the guys over there. I'm taking him." She pointed at Naegi, who at some point had become an object for people to vent their frustrations on.

"Coming." He sighed, dreading that this was going to be another long day.

Chapter Text

"Your order's coming right up." Naegi rushed to the kitchen upon taking the latest customer's order. His legs creaked from the constant back and forth running.

"Think this'll be the last batch for today." Amami said, crossing paths with him

"How're you holding up?" Naegi asked.

"I'm beat, this job's seriously demanding." He could picture that. The adventurous Amami never caught a break before a customer called him. "What about you? I heard you got chewed you out earlier."

"I'm fine. I'm used to criticism...and staying optimistic is my one special trait."

"That's a nice characteristic to have. I'll be here if you need anything."

"Naegi, Amami. Either of you have plans after your shift?" Harukawa asked, suddenly.

"No." "Nope."

"Good, I won't have to make you cancel them." Harukawa was dangerous in many ways. Her complete disregard for anyone else's convenience probably stood out first and foremost. "We're having a meeting after closing and it's imperative you both be there, or so I was told."

---

A few minutes after closing, the people Naegi designated as the main members of the staff met again.

"I hope everyone's not too exhausted." Akio started. The meeting wasn't much different from his first day here, with the same people involved. “We are here to discuss the end of the trial run for our two newest members."

'Trial run?'

"This doesn't sound good." Amami remarked. Naegi really wanted to tell him that he was giving off that shady aura again...

"Yes. Forgive me for deceiving you but your applications have not been fully accepted." Naegi was stunned by Akio's declaration, but Amami seemed to take it in stride.

"I had a feeling it was like that. I'm guessing that ridiculous sum of money was compensation for any grievances?" The adventurer inquired, resting his chin on his palm. Similarly, the gears in Naegi's head were also turning.

"Indeed, you catch on well."

"What comes now?" Naegi raised his hand, skittishly.

"Originally, I was only meant to hire one, however Amami showed up on our doorstep so suddenly. Currently we only have one position open."

"In other words, me and Naegi are actually competing right now." Amami deduced. The luckster had caught onto the same implications, he quickly sized-up his newly established rival.

'This is bad.' If only one of them could get the job, then he'd quit for sure. Not because he wanted to, but because Amami needed the money a lore more than he did.

"By the way, we are the ones who will decide whom to hire, and if we're dissatisfied, then we could decide on neither." Akio stared at Naegi just as the ultimate was about to offer a concession. If he interpreted Akio's words correctly, that meant they wouldn't hire Amami, even if he chose to offer up the remaining spot.

"One question. Shouldn't Naegi be here for this?" Uozumi asked. "And who is this, by the way?"

"What do you mean?" The question had left him stupefied.

"I've been wondering the same. Don't think we should leave the kid out." Hoshi added.

The bartender-in-training almost dared to ask if they were messing with him, but Uozumi was not the kind to tell jokes...ever. She was strictly professional. He knew much less of Hoshi, but he seemed the serious type as well.

Naegi heard snarks from Shintaro and Amami, and a sigh from Harukawa. D-Did they seriously not know it was him? All he did was put his hair down! It wasn't some 10/10 stealth disguise!

"Isn't he right there?" Shirogane pointed at him.

"Shirogane-san." Naegi offered heartfelt gratitude to the bluenette. If only because she'd helped preserve a bit of his sanity.

"...They look nothing alike." Yozuru commented from her seat.

"It's hard to notice Naegi-kun without his defining protagonist trait, but I'd plain never be fooled by it." Shirogane placed a confident hand on her hip. "But to pull off such a high-quality disguise, it's a borderline challenge to cosplayers everywhere. My cosmos is plain burning up!"

To clear up this rather annoying misunderstanding, Naegi reached for his hair, and pulled the slicked ahoge upwards.

A chorus of "it is him" "ahs" and "so that's it" sprung forth. "Really guys?"

"Don't blame us. I would have doubted you too, if Amami hadn't assured me earlier." Harukawa interjected.

"Back to the matter at hand." Akio coughed, routing the conversation back to the original topic.

"And what will the terms be?" Amami said.

"Reveal the secret that's been hidden from you."

"Which one? I have a feeling there are many secrets to this place." Amami turned thoughtful.

"I agree." Naegi added. Too much stuck out as...off, especially after the reaction to Kuzuryu earlier.

"The very first of our lies." Akio wore a sly smirk.

...

"Oh, is that all? I've been wondering why you two decided to put up this front." The fashionable Amami chuckled, indicating he'd seen through this supposed falsehood "What about you, Naegi-kun? It wouldn't be fair to not give you a chance."

'You two? A front' That was definitely a hint. Naegi struggled to think when he'd been lied to. The manager had said the first lie, so it must have been overtly told us, rather than omitted...wait, a front? In that case, there's been something that bothered him for a while.

"Akio-san." Naegi called.

"What is it?" The old man replied.

"Komaeda and Hagakure-san told me you were a difficult person to handle. Would you say that's true?" Naegi asked. He also missed how several the others stiffened.

The old man hummed "That might depend on whoever asks. I cannot say I can get along with everyone."

"That's fair...and a really mature answer I'd say." Naegi narrowed his eyes. "That's why...you're not who you say you are."

"Your reason for doubt?" ‘Akio’ said, unphased by the accusation.

"Those two also told me you were like a kid, but I haven't gotten that feeling at all since I met you. Actually, you've been nothing but nice and accommodating." And the real Akio should be none of those, if those descriptions held true “As for the real Akio, that would be..."

"Shintaro, right?" Amami replied in Naegi's stead. 

All eyes turned to the chestnut-haired bartender, who wore the devilish grin of an exposed jester. "I don't really get it, but I feel there was a backhanded insult in there." 

"It's true though, isn't it? I had a feeling a while back. You see, I've worked jobs like this before, and the manager...the competent ones anyway are the center of everything. The workers gravitate to them, either for help or conversation. From what I've observed, you fit that bill well, especially when Harukawa-san's concerned." Amami explained.

"Adding to that. Tora-san kind of called you boss today. It slipped my mind at the time, but it was definitely suspicious...and I don't think there's anyone more immature than you here." Naegi said.

 "Heh, not bad. Congratulations, you got it right. And in respect to that, I'll let the jabs slide just this once. My name's Akio Meruka, your boss, pleased to meet you." 'Akio' bowed.

'So, it was true.' "Why the charades?"

"I thought it up on the spot, sounded fun. I told everyone else to play along while you and Rantaro were doing whatever." The man-child amusement faded for a moment. "Shintaro wasn't my pick of the name though...Hiroko, that opportunistic bitch."

“We’re finally done with that farce…but did Naegi say Nagito?" Licorne, who'd been disinterested until now, spoke for the first time.

"Yeah, I heard that too. What's that pain in the ass have to do with this?" Hoshi grabbed his cap. From the sounds of it, Komaeda wasn't very popular here...or anywhere, really.

"Nagito's the one who referred Naegi to me. Don't you guys just miss him?" Shin-...Akio grinned.

"It's been...saner since he left, I guess." Shirogane struggled to laugh.

"That's it!" Naegi jumped as a pair of hands slammed on a table. The source coming from Harukawa, who glowered at him intensely. "I've been wondering why he's been getting on my nerves. He's reminds me of that creep, Nagito!" Harukawa bit her nail.

'That's why she doesn't like me!?' He slowly put the pieces of the puzzle together.

"Now now. Don't speak ill of the departed." Yozuru joined. Why was she making it sound like he's dead? He only went on a vacation...

"What Sae said. I love all of you kids equally. It pains me to watch you fight." Akio spread his arms wide. 

"But not as much as you hurt us whenever a fight broke out." Shirogane said, exasperatedly.

"...Kids? How old are you again?" Naegi asked the bartender/manager, who he’d earlier presumed was in his 20s.

"Not telling and I think you have bigger problems. We weren't expecting both of you to figure out my bait and switch. What do we do now, Tengan?" He motioned towards the old man.

'Tengan?' - He'd heard that name before...but where?

"I'm sure you prepared a failsafe." Tengan left the spotlight and took a seat by Yozuru.

Whatever he meant by failsafe was soon to be discovered "Tae, bring out the goods." Tae referring to Uozumi who came forward with a box of cellphones and a laptop.

"What are these for?" Amami asked.

Akio took the laptop and set it on a table. "Since you both got the answer right. I thought I'd give you a fair chance and do this the old-fashioned way. There's a survey on the screens. Everyone gets to vote who they want to stay. The one with the higher vote wins."

'A popularity contest, basically. I... don’t think I can win that.'

"Sounds good." Amami consented, a lot more confident than Naegi was.

"By the way. I will ask you all to give the reason for your choice." Akio gazed at each of them.

"Isn't the point of these surveys, anonymity?" Shirogane worked the straight man act well. He was starting to get a grasp on her personality. If she was as normal straightforward as he thought, they should hang out more.

"Where's the fun in that? Now vote, you've got 30 seconds!"

Naegi stared down his phone and simple enough, there were 2 names to choose from. His eyes drifted to the others, some appearing to already have finished, and others still thinking about the choice. Amami was in the former camp it seemed. For Naegi, the decision wasn't hard to make: He voted for his friend.

"Alright, time's up." Akio said. "And the tally is... 5 for Rantaro and... 3 for the brat."

...

'Guess...that's it then.' The expected outcome, yet he couldn't deny a wave of disappointment flowing through him.

"9...who didn't vote?" Akio asked, irritated.

The sounds of light snoring alerted them to Hijirihara lying down on the corner. "Somebody kick him." Rather than kick, Hoshi pulled out a ball from his pocket and threw it at the sleeping man from where he sat at the bar. To Naegi's surprise...Hijirihara caught it reflexively, eyes opening only after the fact.

"Geez. What are you doing?" Hijirihara asked.

"Vote and say why." Akio grit his teeth.

Hijirihara blinked, staring lazily between the two recruits. "Naegi. He's easier to deal with." What he meant by that, Naegi hadn't the slightest clue.

"5-4 then. Ryoma, you're next." Akio faced the shortest male.

"Haven't gotten to work with either of them, but Amami seems like he'd fit in fine here. This place isn't for nice kids like Naegi." Hoshi covered his eyes with his cap, looking away from Naegi.

'What did that mean?' Naegi wondered. It sounded like Hoshi was trying to protect him.

"Next, Sae."

"Naegi. Not much of a reason, barring that amazing drink earlier." The older woman winked at him, resulting in a blush spreading across his cheeks

"Tae."

"Amami is the more efficient worker in my eyes. I'm not sure what happened the previous night, but without my being there, I cannot properly review Naegi's performance...and as for the mess that was left in the morning..." Uozumi said. She...was still mad about that, huh?

"Sheesh, calm down. Lico?"

The precocious boy stood in a corner by himself, fiddling with his cellphone. "Naegi. My vote wouldn't change anything, but it'd be more interesting that way."

"Creepy, but okay. Maki?"

"Naegi reminds me of Nagito. What do you think?" Harukawa snarled. He sensed there was bad blood between her and his friend.

"Tsumugi."

"Amami-kun is better looking, but he reminds me too much of a normie. Then again, Naegi gives the impression of THE normie, the mainstream guy everybody liles. I still voted for him...because I’ve noticed there's a lot more potential for cosplay."  He...did not like the predatory look she sent his way.

"Somehow managed to be creepier. And Tengan?"

"My reasons were the same as Licorne's, though for the opposite side. Amami-kun receives my vote."

Akio counted the votes. “That makes 4 for Rantaro and 3 for Makoto. I said everyone could vote, and that includes you two."

"I uh, voted for Amami-kun." Naegi said aloud.

"Why?"

"It's...not my place to say without his consent, but he needs and deserves it more than me." He rubbed his neck.

"Like I said...way too nice for a place like this." Hoshi remarked.

Then...the one who didn't vote was "Rantaro?"

His roommate sighed. "Yeah. I like this gig, and I'm not willing to hand it over on a silver platter. But, I was 70% sure Naegi would vote for me anyway, he's that kind of guy and I'm not shameless enough to betray that kindness. Seemed like an easy choice to me?"

"Not voting was a choice?" Akio said, bemused.

"You told everyone was allowed to vote, but you never said explicitly that we couldn't." 

"I see. But in either case, you're still the winner." Akio rubbed his cheeks.

"Looks that way." Amami sighed.

"Can we go home now?" Harukawa asked, seemingly losing all interest in the assessment.

"Yeah, we're about done here. Later." Akio waved her a goodbye, then turned to Naegi and Amami. "As for you two, come with me, I've got your outfits for tomorrow ready."

...

"Why me?" Naegi scrunched his face in confusion.

"Because your shift is tomorrow? Why else?" Naegi didn't understand what he was saying. Wasn't he fired?

"Like I thought. A roundabout game just to waste everyone's time." Licorne shook his head, having picked up on what Naegi hadn't.

"The two of them?" Harukawa turned, betraying her earlier intentions to leave.

"Yeah. I decided to hire the brat after all." Akio said, matter-of-factly.

"Don't you mean from the start?" Shirogane sighed.

"W-What was the point of the voting?" Naegi asked.

"Who cares about that. I'm the boss, what I say goes." Akio puffed his chest out.

"What he's trying to say, is we're not a democracy and the rest of our opinions aren't worth a dime." Yozuru said.

"That's exactly right. I'm the father in this family. That means I'm above the law." He said proudly. "Tsumugi, go get these kids fitted. The rest of you can go or wait if you want. I don't care."

"Some father." Harukawa scoffed, carrying on with her leave

"What will you do, Akio?" The cosplay enthusiast asked.

"Making refreshments for the occasion." Akio strode off to the bar

---

Naegi wore a tight-fitting white tuxedo and black pants, courtesy of Shirogane's choice; it gave him a matured look according to her. Amami had stopped about half-way, choosing to skip the suit and stuck with a black vest. A style that emphasized his muscular features.

Shirogane clasped her hands. "Just like I thought. The costume potential is off-the charts. Naegi-kun, how about a maid-"

"No. I'm fine, thanks." He shot the idea down as quickly as possible.

"I'll plain have to take my time wearing you down then." Shirogane stared off into the distance. Was that a sign that she was speaking objectively? Because that was never going to happen. Ever. "For now, though, you can put your hair back the way it used to be." Shirogane ruffled his hair and the ahoge plopped back into place. He strangely missed it.

They went to the bar counter to meet Akio soon after. The bar tender had two clear drinks waiting for them.

"Here, a toast to our new family members." He handed the wine glasses to Naegi and Amami. The latter accepted without much of a fuss. As for himself... "Uh...I don't..."

"It's non-alcoholic." Akio replied.

Naegi nodded and drank out of the glass. It hadn't taken long to realize he'd been fooled. The pungent taste of gin didn't lie. "This...isn't non-alcoholic." Naegi pouted. Admittedly though...it tasted amazing.

Shirogane quickly snapped a picture of both.

"What was that for?" Naegi questioned. Every strand of hair in his body was standing up. It was the feeling he got...like right before Enoshima played a prank on him.

"Nothing much. Just blackmail." Akio answered. And there it was.

"Not again! Blackmail for what!?" He wailed.

"Probably so you don't chicken out when you find out what this place is really like." Amami laughed, not minding that he'd fallen for the same trap.

"Rantaro, you're a pretty smart kid. You figured it out, huh?"

"Well, I've got experience with those types of people. It only took a few interactions with the customers to notice." The green-haired teen was oddly relaxed in the face of blackmail.

"Notice what?" Naegi blinked, getting in between the two taller males.

"Remember what happened with the Kuzuryu kid this evening?" Akio sneered, reminding Naegi of the laughs shared at his expense.

"Uh yeah. I still don't get why everyone reacted that way." Naegi pouted.

"You should have, or maybe it's because you're too innocent like Ryoma said. But...you'd laugh too if you knew."

"Knew what?" He whined.

"That every single person here is either a fugitive or has been in trouble with the law. The customers and the staff alike." Shirogane smirked.

"And I presume that goes for us by association." Amami quipped.

...

Error. Does not compute.

"...Huh?" Was the only word his fractured Windows 98 of a brain could voice.

"Welcome to the family." Akio patted him on the head.

It felt like for the first time, he and Harukawa met on the same spiritual wavelength. ‘Damn you, Komaeda!'

Chapter Text

"You guys...aren't joking, are you?" A lengthy silence followed the revelation.  Akio, Amami and Shirogane comically swayed their heads.

"...even the customers?"

"Crooks, scam-artists, mobsters, you name it. It's not just Fantasia either, this entire district is an underworld hub." Shirogane replied.

"Really? The entire district?" Amami asked, that piece of news extending beyond the knowledge he'd deduced. Naegi was less taken aback than he normally would have been; the cause relating to that conversation he had with the man in exotic garb a few days ago. They'd discussed how the Mirai district had a unified, distinct atmosphere, and since then, Naegi had run into several scary-looking people.

"The Mirai district used to be a backwater town for thugs. It turned itself around a few decades ago, a bit before you kids were born probably. It's become a haven for fugitives ever since. Under the table business dealings, yakuza conferences. Don't let it scare you though, Mirai's a peaceful place, so long as you know what you're doing." Akio explained.

Some things didn't add up. "How can you all get away with this? If crime is as concentrated here as you say, how have the police not gotten involved?" 

"Have you seen any cops around?" Akio arched his eyebrow.

"They could be undercover." Amami suggested. "I'm as skeptical as Naegi. There is law enforcement everywhere, some places just have it to lower degrees. Without the police, you could never maintain order."

"Same thing people did before central authorities were designed - We keep our own order. There are unspoken rules in this district everyone follows to keep the peace. Break them and suffer the consequences, just like everywhere else."

"I kind of doubt these rules are very clean if they're un-pronounced, it's common for people to take advantage of loopholes." Amami said

The bartender raised 3 fingers "There are three laws on a pyramid scheme that are overturned by the proceeding one should they conflict. The first, nothing is prohibited."

"That doesn't feel very lawful." The explanation was already off to a bad start.

"Second. Nothing is prohibited, however assume responsibility for everything." Akio said, gravely.

The last of his fingers dropped. "At the top of the pyramid is the rule that outsiders are never to be harmed."

...

"Makes sense. If everyone from the outside could be drawn into the chaos here, the authorities wouldn't stay quiet. Not that I can even understand what it would take to shut them up in the first place. If it's money, then you'd need to be paying up a staggering amount." Amami chimed in.

"More or less. Outsiders are defined as non-civilians. You only start being recognized as one if you directly take part in activities here or have been spotted around for more than a month."

"I see. A very convenient system to maintain public order. Idiots would never survive here." Amami stared Akio down.

"Amami-kun's already figured it out? Honestly, if I was in charge of your character, I'd kill you off first or else all the tension will drain away from the story." Shirogane rested her head on her palm.

"Let's not say scary things, okay?" Amami laughed nervously. Naegi on the other hand, inched back. 'She wasn't serious about that, was she?' 

Short of the third, there are no rules for the civilians who live here. Stealing, lying and even killing are allowed. It was deplorable, but Naegi imagined fugitives wouldn't have it any other way; what they want is a lawless-zone...but then, "What's the second rule mean by responsibility?" Naegi asked.

"Same thing responsibility means everywhere else. if you shit the bed, then be ready to clean it up." Akio said.

Amami rested his hand on Naegi's shoulder, calming the smaller boy's nerves down somewhat. "It's a prisoner's dilemma, Naegi. Prohibition doesn't mean what you think it does. The Mirai district is orderly, not much different than outside, how do you think the residents here can pull it off without an enforcer?"

Even when Naegi had been an easy target on his first day, he was never harmed. On the other hand, they'd helped by returning his wallet. If they could do anything without being punished, most would be less inclined to help '...If everyone were given permission to anything then it'd be complete anarchy. The citizens needed to temper their own interests to survive here.'

"Nothing is prohibited...doesn't mean you're allowed to do whatever you want." He realized.

"You got it."

Shirogane clapped "That's the trap. You're not forbidden from acting in whichever way you want, but the same principle applies to everyone else. If you cause trouble for someone, don't be surprised if you're made to regret it, because we all have the same freedom."

"So, the best choice for everyone involved is to make as little commotion as possible or there's a chance of upsetting the balance. Nobody else wants that or wants someone to exercise more freedom more than they're allowed. If such a thing did happen, then there's incentive to cooperate and solve the problem. That's how the public order is kept. " Amami surmised. 

"What's the punishment for breaking a law?"

"Break the law and be punished by the law. Nothing is prohibited, remember?" Akio smiled, giving an ambiguous answer.

In other words, the punishment could be anything, in most cases, up to the executioner. Naegi wasn't naive enough to miss the connotations here. "That's wrong. Nobody should be allowed to take the law into their own hands." Naegi argued.

"The law isn't perfect. For some, it hurts more than it helps, and those people aren't as bad as you think." Akio argued.

Naegi sighed. "Think huh? Well, I'm going to be need to be doing a lot of that."

"Sure sure, think all you want, but I'll need you to be focused when it's time for your shift." Akio sported a malicious grin.

"Huh? There's nothing you can say that can keep me here." Naegi said, wide-eyed.

"Oh dear." Shirogane put a hand to her mouth in what was probably a gesture of pity. 

Akio shook his head mockingly "Licorne" 

Naegi turned to the blue haired boy with a laptop placed in front of him. "Makoto Naegi. Age 16. Brown hair. Hazel eyes. Sister is Komaru Naegi. Parents are Jun and Shizuka Naegi. Preference of clothing is a dark hoodie and green sweater. Formerly attended Dusk High School but is now enrolled in Hope's Peak Academy. He's the Ultimate Lucky Student after winning the national lottery. Is commonly called adorable by many. His preferences are curry or common fads. Dislikes are dried mackerel. Has a strong moral compass, and little to no negative history. Never been in trouble with the law but has once averted a robbery caused by Jutaro Akafuku. His browsing history is average, save niche-"

"Stop right there!" Naegi shouted, red as a tomato. He wasn't letting the boy go any further. "Where'd you get all of that!?"

The androgynous boy gave Naegi a pitying look all too similar to the cosplayer's "I'm in charge of intel around here. Background checks on everyone is part of my job." Licorne's eyes narrowed ever so slightly as he turned to Amami.

"That's just insurance, chill." Akio tried to reassure the luckster. "If you're that mad, I can tell you one of our secrets. Like how Maki used to be an assassin before I took her in."

"...What!?" Naegi yelled. He's being trolled right!?

Licorne and Shirogane groaned in unison. "You know Maki doesn't like people finding about that, especially the new guys." The bluenette reprimanded her senior, the latter shrugging harmlessly.

"Must have slipped my mind. A shame she wasn't here to remind me." Akio chuckled.

The plain girl gave him a disgusted look then addressed Naegi. "It's true that Maki's an assassin...but she's not a bad person once you get to know here.  You've never seen her attacking indiscriminately or anything, have you?"

That was true...but still...all of this was starting to make him feel drowsy. And every last bit of it, was Komaeda's fault.

"Like Tsumugi said, it's not a big deal. Now, if you don't want these pictures to 'accidentally' leak to your school, you'll work no questions asked. That's my only condition." Akio waved the evidence in Naegi's face.

"Isn't it fine, Naegi? It's not like anything's changed for us since we've been working here." Amami comforted him

"But, doesn't this make me a suspect by association!?"

"No." Akio objected. The sneer Naegi witnessed was the most terrifying sneer yet. "Makoto Naegi has nothing to do with Fantasia, he's not an employee either. Rantaro was the one who got the job out of the two of them. Fortunately for us. You're not Makoto Naegi."

"Start making sense!"

"Remember the rule? Take responsibility for everything...that includes lies."

"W-What are you doing?" Naegi instinctively backed away when the brown-haired owner approached, but to no avail. The older man's hand was already palming his head, swiping the boy's hair backwards, where the ahoge fell neatly into place.

"It's not what I've done. This is all on you, Nagi-kun."

-December 9th, 2010-

Naegi walked side-by-side with the bubbly Asahina, who came to him with an earnest request. It was about their classmate, Toko Fukawa, who'd shut herself up in her room for days. 

"You've been sighing all day, Naegi. Something on your mind?" Asahina  said.

"Uh yeah, no worries." He replied hastily.

"Then shape up. We're going to meet Fukawa and I'll need you to do that optimism thing and get her out of that room."

"That's not how it works. I can't force others to be happy." He wasn't a genie.

"Try your best then, because you're the only one she'll talk to."  Asahina pouted. "I'd have strong-armed Togami, but nobody knows where the hell he is."

"You know how serious Togami-kun is...

-Somewhere very far away and cold (Probably Russia)-

"I'd like to buy this." Byakuya Togami addressed the clerk, who looked upon him with excess confusion, like someone had told the most bizarre joke he'd ever heard...and with a straight face.

"You...wish...to...purchase...that."  The clerk's gloved finger pointed at the object of interest, slurring his words over to make sure he'd heard right.

"Yes, have it brought to me in something extravagant as well." Togami smirked, feeling comfortable in his coat, despite the freezing weather. 

"With all due respect, sir. That is a Siberian Tiger." The endangered cat roared in its artificially crafted habitat. "And this is a national zoo. The tiger is not for sale."

Togami chuckled. "My good man. You're about to learn that everything in this world is for sale, at the right price. Tell him, Kirumi." The boy deferred to the silver-haired maid by his side, who wore a dignified expression despite the outrageous demand the heir had made of everyone involved. "Master Togami is correct, as I shall explain..." She brought forth a large text in front of the clerk.

A lengthy, educational 10 minutes later..."I-I see. I shall speak with the manager. Excuse me." The man hurried off.

Togami nodded with satisfaction, returning his attention to the majestic beast that captured his fleeting attention. "Look, Kirumi. Isn't it just majestic? I thought of getting a lion but that's far too austere. Everyone's done it already."

"Would 'everyone' in this particular circumstance be referring to ancient Roman emperors and alike of that caliber?"

"I should have been clearer. Everyone who matters." Togami corrected. "A Togami heir deserves to stand out in all regards."

"In that case, I am honored to have been able to assist you in this noble endeavor." If Tojo had been sarcastic, not a shred of it escaped her.

"Very good." Togami approved...then phrased a minor concern. "...Do you usually carry that with you?" His eyes trailed to the encyclopedia containing international laws, business practices and alike.

"No, I brought it specifically for this occasion."

"Why?" Even Togami looked somewhat bewildered.

Tojo tilted her head slightly, her features were stern, but not exasperated.  "Master Togami, please give me some credit. I have been under your service for several months now. While it may sound arrogant of me to say, I've come to expect nothing but...eccentricities from you. This outcome was well within my predictions."

"Fair enough."

"...If I may ask, do you not feel it unwise to be an indefinite absentee from the academy?" Tojo chanced upon a subject that deeply concerned her, as a maid who thought of her master's well-being at all times.

"Hm? What would I have to learn by socializing with those commoners? I'm having fun for once." Togami sneered.

"I see, then I shall ask again when you have had your fill of fun." Tojo replied. Patience and tolerance were virtues never to be squandered. The heir was nothing, if not whimsical. She merely needed to wait for the opportunity where that whimsy would actually work to his benefit for once. "Now then...have you decided on what to name it?" She spoke of the tiger, which had approached them in the meanwhile, barred from reaching as a result of the fence separating them.

In an act of absolute confidence, Togami stuck his arm through the openings. The tiger quietly stalked the hand, opening its mouth at the offering. However instead of biting, the beast nuzzled against Togami. A wide grin appeared on the bespectacled boy's face. "Simba."

...

Tojo watched and listened with suppressed incredulity at having the expectations that she'd tempered, actually surpassed...yet was paradoxically unphased by the sheer nonsense of it all.

"Are you sure you didn't want a lion?"

---

"He's probably on some important business trip." Naegi smiled, completely wrong in his assessment of the affluent progeny's character.

The two reached Fukawa's door and knocked. "Fukawa, it's Hina." Several minutes passed before it became clear the author had no intention of opening the door.

"Naegi's here with me. We'll wait here all day if we have to." Asahina banged on the door.

"I don't have that kind of time." Naegi muttered under his breath. "Fukawa-san! Let us in." He raised his voice.

Finally, the door opened slightly. "What do you want?" Fukawa droned, peeking out of the opening.

Naegi froze. She looked awful. It wasn't a jab at the writing prodigy's appearance, but everything about her disposition. Like the life had been drained out of her. "Fukawa, is anything wrong?" There obviously was, but she'd definitely shut the door on them if he pushed.

"None of your business." She replied.

"You've been missing for weeks. We're all worried about you." Asahina chimed in.

"You're wasting your time." Before Fukawa closed the door, Naegi stuck his feet in the opening, flinching at the pain. "I know you like keeping to yourself, but we're your friends, you know? You can talk to us."

"You wouldn't understand." Toko said, solemnly.

"Maybe not, but we won't know for sure until you give us a chance." Naegi retorted. He knew Fukawa was the type who couldn't be pushed into expressing herself, she carried far too much self-loathing for that. In preparation for the likely event that the author would unceremoniously dismiss them, Naegi brought a thin card with his phone number written. Fukawa was one of the few who didn't socialize with anyone else in their class. "You can call me if you ever need to talk."

The girl narrowed her eyes at him but snatched the card anyway. "Is that all?"

"And um...I'll bring you dinner if you're not eating anything." 

He removed his foot from the door way and it quickly shut.

Naegi looked at Asahina sheepishly.

"Dinner?" The tanned girl asked.

"If she hasn't left her dorm room in days, what do you think she's eating?" If she had any supplies, they'd probably be nearly gone by now.

"Good point. You should be a therapist, Naegi."

Naegi sighed yet again "...At least that sounds like an honest job."

 ---

Naegi met up with Amami, who'd waited outside the gates for him. The duo were an odd pair, walking several kilometers before they reached the Mirai district. Naegi began to see the area in a different light. The bystanders looked just like everyone else, eliciting confident gestures. But a lot of these men and women, were dangerous individuals that didn't play by the same rules he'd lived by. It was like stepping on nails, trying to find the right angle to progress and avoid getting his feet pierced.

That truth made him uneasy and unable to meet any of them in the eye. Naegi's gaze wandered to Amami, who otherwise acted no differently. He couldn't deny feeling a great deal of envy towards his colleague. The duo trekked until a flash of golden caught his eye. There was someone he recognized, but...it couldn't be. What was she doing here?

Naegi skipped ahead of Amami, tapping his upperclassman on the shoulder. "Nevermind-senpai?" 

Sonia Nevermind turned to meet him with an equally surprised expression. "It is you, Makoto. How has your day been? "Though her confusion didn't last nearly as long before it melted into amity.

"So far so good." He chirped.

"Another pretty girl you know, Naegi? Should I be taking tips from you?" Amami caught up to him.

Naegi scratched his cheek "Um... this is upperclassman from school, Sonia Nevermind. She's a foreigner." He smiled at the girl. "And he's my friend, Rantaro Amami. He'll be enrolling in Hope's Peak next term."

The two shook hands.

"Pleased to meet you."

"The pleasure's all mine. Where are you from?"

"Novoselic, a small nation in the Netherlands." Nevermind replied

"She's the princess, if you can believe it." Naegi added.

"Say what?" Amami panicked. "Do I have to bow or something?"

"No need. Here, I am just a student like everyone else." She frowned at Naegi. "Although, I believe I mentioned there need be no formality between us, Makoto."

"Uh right." Still wasn't used to that. "What are you doing here anyway?" He returned to the real danger present. Who knows what could happen in this lawless zone? 

"I went out for a stroll and wound up here. It appears I may be lost." She elaborated.

"You ended up here from school?" Amami asked.

"Strange things do happen. If I may ask, what is your business here?" Nevermind replied with a question of her own.

"Work." Amami smiled.

The female Ultimate's eyes shone with curiosity "Of what kind?"

"A nightclub. It’s not far want to come see?"

"Amami-kun?" Naegi said, hurriedly.

"What...oh? I forgot. That was meant to be a secret." He scratched his hair and laughed.

Naegi put his hand on his temples and faced the princess. "I'm not allowed to work there, but I do anyways so..."

"Say no more, I understand perfectly. My lips are jailed." She clapped her hands.

"Sealed."

"However, would you not be noticed immediately if someone from our school saw you?" Nevermind brought up a very good point.

"...Oh crap. I forgot to ask Maizono-san for the hair products!"

"No worries. She left without taking the bottle and I've got it with me. I'll brush your hair when we get there." Amami reached into his bag and showed the canister.

"Thanks, but is it okay if you come with us?" Naegi asked Nevermind. He wasn't accepting of leaving her to walk the streets alone, but he also knew he couldn't keep her with them until they finished their shift. That'd be even more unreasonable.

"It would be my first time to a club. I'd rather it'd be with friends too."

"Right."...What's the worst that could happen? "Oh, and I go by a different name there. You have to call me Motoko Nagi."

Nevermind blinked for a few moments. "...Is the point of this not a disguise to hide your true identity? Why would you select such a similar sounding name?"

"Naegi's a funny guy and I've been wondering the same thing." Amami was intent on contributing to the bullying.

"It was the best I could think of at the time, okay?" Naegi turned beet red with embarrassment.

Chapter Text

"So this is the princess you told me about?" Akio's gaze fell on Nevermind. Naegi stood besides him at the back of the counter in his new suit, while Nevermind sat in front.

"I am Sonia Nevermind. One of Nae-...Nagi's friends." She introduced herself, remembering to refer to Naegi by his stage name. It took way too long convincing her that he really was Naegi after he pulled his ahoge down. 

"Seriously? With a plan bug like this?" He jerked his finger at the younger bartender.

"Sorry to keep you here, Nevermind-senpai. Uh, I'm not really sure how to entertain you, to be honest." Naegi said

"I am content to observe a working man." She smiled.

'The whole time? I think I'd feel self-conscious.'

"Why not show off to the little lady and make her something?"  Akio's eyes flashed with deviltry "Better yet, let's have a competition between you and me. Sonia-chan will be the judge."

"I would be delighted to take part!" Nevermind raised her hand.

"Are you sure? We serve alcohol here." Naegi asked to be certain.

"I am aware of the customs in Japan, but the drinking age is much lower in Novoselic. I am well experienced with liquor." Nevermind beamed.

"Alright then, you're on." Naegi faced Akio. He'd much rather keep Nevermind at the counter where he could keep track of her and make sure she didn't get hurt. He couldn't exactly trust anyone other than Amami-kun, and the boy in question was rather busy at the moment. If this game could make for a more enjoyable experience for the blonde, then he'd go with it. "What are we making, Akio-san?"

"You ask the customer for their order, not me." The bartender looked at him dumbly "What's got your fire lit up?...Are you holding a grudge from that lecture the other day?"

"No." It wasn't something as aggressive as a grudge, but he couldn't put a name to it either. He just held a faint desire to one-up his boss.

"What'll it be?" Naegi asked Nevermind.

"Let us start off simple. A screwdriver please."

Naegi stood silent at the order.

"I'll go first and you watch. You might kill me if you put a real screwdriver in the glass." Akio said between snickers. 

"I'm not an idiot, you know." Naegi folded his arms. 

Akio performed a series of simple maneuvers. Clumps of ice onto the glass, fill it with vodka a quarter way, added freshly squeezed orange juice and stirred."One Screwdriver. Easy enough for the boy to follow." Akio said.

Nevermind gulped with gusto. "Delicious."

"You're welcome, but a screwdriver's simple enough that even a kid could get it right. Why don't you pick another, Miss?"

Nevermind looked pensive, a finger brushing against her lips."I see. I should have picked one that could determine your respective skill levels."

"It's not a big deal, senpai. You can just make the next one, harder." Naegi said.

"I'll order a margarita next then."

Akio whistled. "Not pulling your punches. Watch closely, Naegi. I'll even help you out if you ask nicely."

"I wo-." He'd every intention to reject the teasing offer...but then recalled the incident from the previous day. "If it's not too much of a bother."

Akio cast him a side glance, then smiled. He motioned to the stack and grabbed a Tequila bottle, Cointreau and agave followed by fresh limes and salt, all to be used in a highball glass.

Naegi curiously gazed at the two middle items. He'd surely used them before with Tora and the guys...but in hindsight, he didn't even know what they were.

Akio held the bottles up, lifting the right higher then alternating with the left. "Cointreau is orange-flavored liqueur, it's just a sweet supplement mostly. Agave adds on to it. Though I say 'just' I fully intend on using high-quality brands."

"There is no need to go that far." Nevermind said anxiously.

"You're a first time customer. No, even then, It wouldn't matter. Once you sat down, it became my obligation to afford you with my best service, with no less care than if it was your first or last drink." Akio replied.

He poured 2 ounces of tequila, 1 and a half ounces of lime juice, cointreau and agave into the shaker. Each liquid was measured through the use of a shot glass and then shaken harshly. Akio then sliced off a piece of a lime and coated the juice along the rim of the highball glass. Naegi scrunched his face in mild surprise when the bartender then dipped the rim of the glass in salt, about half way.

"There are many stories behind the Margarita." Akio said, pouring the alcohol out of the shaker and filling the glass with ice "Nobody knows the exact origin, but the base is mostly the same. It was made by a bartender in Mexico in the early 20th century and named after a female customer. The version I know best is Durlesser's, who invented the Margarita as a tribute to his girlfriend who died in a hunting accident."

"You'd tell a story like that to our customers? That's a little depressing, don't you think?" Naegi frowned. 

"You think our guests are going to be put off by a lukewarm story like that? Not even the little miss here's bothered one bit." Akio lazily poked his finger in Nevermind's direction. Indeed, she seemed very indifferent to it.

"Honoring life experiences in ways that they live on beyond oneself...it's a charming story. " Nevermind commented, dissecting the tale as if it were a history lesson. She put the glass to her lips. "Another amazing solution, Akio-san. My father would be envious." Nevermind giggled.

"You're too kind." Akio faced Naegi with a challenging grin. "Your turn. Try to at least come close, okay?"

Naegi ignored the provocation, already having a plan in mind. "Nevermind-senpai, is there a kind of fruit you prefer?"

"Peaches if they are available." Nevermind's eyes lit.

"Do we have any?" Naegi asked Akio

"Peach Schnapps in the fridge. I think there might be peaches in the kitchen." 

"I'll be right back. But first..." Naegi brought out a glass and slipped in 4 ice cubes, then left in the direction of the kitchen

...

"What's taking him so long?" Akio said after several minutes passed.

"Back."Naegi returned with a bottle of peach nectar.

"We had puree?" Akio asked, confused.

"No. I cut the peaches over there myself and put them in a blender. One of the chefs offered to help but the club's busy and I didn't want to bother him." He said.

"And the bandages?" Akio referred to the bands on the boy's hand.

"...I'm not very good at cutting fruit."

"You're a moron."

"I would not insult him quite so blatantly, but I would prefer you take better care yourself, Nagi-san." Nevermind chastised him as well.

"I'll try." Naegi brought the Peach Schnapps out of the fridge, and borrowed some of Akio's used items, namely the tequila, lime and salt. He followed the process Akio had, but added his own touch by mixing the peach schnapps and puree, shaking the mixture with ice that had begun to thaw.

He presented the Peach Margarita in a cocktail glass notably smaller than the older bartender's. "Here you go."

The princess gushed at  thedrink. "This is marvelous. You are very talented."

"Thanks." He blushed.

Nevermind held both bartender's glasses in her hands, her eyes drifting between each one as she came to a decision. "However, I would give my vote to Akio-san."

"Can't be helped." Naegi sighed.

"You disappointed?" Akio asked.

"Not really." It wasn't like he expected a clean victory against someone who'd had much more experience.

"You shouldn't be." Nevermind added. "I believe the two were nearly on-par. If there was a notable difference, it would be that the taste of Nagi-san's was diluted."

"But that was on purpose, right?" Akio stared at the luckster. "What a cheeky brat."

"Intentional?" Nevermind looked at her glass curiously.

Naegi tensed at being found out. "I figured drinking two in succession would be a bit much, so I tried to make it less strong by diluting the alcohol. Fruits and lower quality ice soudnded like a good idea,.."

"While also playing to her preference of fruit to match the quality of my own." Akio smacked Naegi's back, sending the boy reeling forward slightly  "It came up short...but not bad. Just like in any establishment, the customer comes first. There aren't any statistics in Fantasia. Customers are their own person and will be treated as such."

"Uh, thanks, I guess." Naegi rubbed the spot where the manager's hand hit.

"You do not need to so considerate. I am very adept at holding my liquor." Nevermind attested to her tolerance for alcohol.

"Maybe, but you're still just a student like the rest of us at Hope's Peak. I already feel bad enough for making you go through this. Even if you consent, I still feel like being selfish."

Nevermind made steady eye-contact with Naegi, her mouth open partly but ultimately no words came out. At least not before another visitor sat besides her.

"Hit me up with a strong one. You pick." A male customer arrived sporting a black tuxedo and sunglasses.

"Coming right up." Akio answered.

"Ah, add one more, for the lady."

"Myself?" Nevermind cocked her head. 

The man sent her a sly look. "You've been drinking your fill, haven't you?"

"It is a special occasion."

"Everyday is special to somebody." A lecherous grin sprawled across his features. 

'Is he hitting on her?' This is so embarrassing.' - Naegi grimaced. This was exactly the reason why he wanted his upperclassman as close as possible. "Please don't disturb the other customers, sir."

"What's it to ya?" 

 "That's my friend you're trying to pick up."

"Again. So?"

"I'll have to ask you to leave." It wasn't in Naegi's nature to be so openly hostile...but the man's face put Naegi on edge. Like he'd seen him somewhere before.

His hands snaked over the princess' shoulder. "Let's leave this joint. I know an ever better place to get drinks." 

Naegi stared in the amazement. Not at the man's sleazy attempt at coercing his upperclassman. It was something somewhat more fantastical; just before his arm made contact with Nevermind, his body suddenly flipped into the air...and by the laws of gravity, fell unceremoniously soon after.

"Why is there always some nonsense going on whenever I come here? Are you bad luck?" Harukawa growled at Naegi, paying no attention to the poor sap she'd thrown over head by his collar.

"Maybe." Naegi squeaked. Harukawa's piercing glare seemed so much scarier than before and in no small part due to finding out that she was a professional killer. Not the kind of person whose bad side he wanted to be on.

Harukawa didn't respond. Instead red eyes met blue as Nevermind entered the waitress' sight. No words were issued amongst them, just a stare-down that increasingly drained the temperature in the room.

"That's enough, Maki. Back to work." Akio instructed as he finished the downed man's drink. 

"Not even a word of thanks? Serves me right for going out of my way." Harukawa scorned the bartender.

"I appreciate you sticking up for us, Harukawa-san. Sorry, I'm so undependable." Naegi conveyed his appreciation. Scary or not, she did them a favor. 

"I don't want to be thanked by you." Harukawa glared, then turned around, stepping over the fallen customer.

Naegi winced at the rebuke, but otherwise felt it was par for the course concerning Harukawa's personality. Some people just couldn't get along with others.

"Who was that girl? Another employee?" His upperclassman asked. Even he could detect the interest embed in her words.

"That's Maki Harukawa, ain't she the cutest? Coming to his rescue like that?" Akio grinned.

"She is strong...No, it would be more appropriate to say razor sharp."

"Hm...I don't know about that, but how about we finish our little game with one last drink?" Akio asked. 

"Another?" Naegi narrowed his eyes at the senior bartender. What a waste of his earlier efforts.

"This'll be the last one. Made especially for you. My treat." Akio flippantly dismissed the lucky student's worries, choosing to focus on the blonde instead.

"I am not one to refuse generosity." Nevermind consented 

3 minutes later, Akio came out with a new cocktail. 

"This is..." Nevermind began.

"You know it then? We call it a Bloody Mary."

"I have...Tell me, what does this symbolize?" Nervermind requested

"It's a hangover cure, healthier than the others. Easier to digest too." Akio informed her with a raised finger.

The Novoselic royal locked eyes with the manager of Fantasia, a neutral expression on her features...before settling into giggles. "I fear I am being spoiled far too much today. This was a very pleasant experience, Nagi-san."

"Are you leaving?" The brown-haired boy asked.

"Yes, I cannot stay all night."

"But..." Naegi looked to Akio, signaling whether he could be allowed to take her home.

"No can do, kid. You're on the clock." Akio closed his eyes, wiping a glass.

"You worry too much, Nagi. I'm flattered that you are concerned with my well-being...but Akio was correct the first time." Nevermind stood from her seat and flipped her hair, sending Naegi a confident look. "I am not as fragile as you believe."

Whether or not that was true..."You're free to come to me for help anytime. I'll be here."

Nevermind smiled. "Thank you, Naegi." She accidentally used the wrong (correct?) name at the last second. Thankfully without anybody around (or awake in the fallen crook's case) to hear it.

Naegi waved goodbye as the blonde existed Fantasia. Though, her assurance didn't assuage his worries. It was dark out. Who knows what she could potentially run into?

"Maybe I should have gone with her." He muttered under his breath.

"Listen to the girl. You're wracking your head over nothing." Apparently, not low enough for the bartender to miss it.

Naegi sighed.

"What is it? Don't tell me you're sweet on her." Akio said in his outdated language. "You should settle for a girl closer to your level."

"I wasn't thinking that all!" Naegi shrugged. "And senpai is royalty. There's no way it would work out."

"Didn't you say she was just like everyone else?"

"Well...yeah. She's just a regular girl when it comes down to it. But I'm sure she's got obligations and stuff."

This time Akio sighed as he shook his head. "Pick your words more carefully then, brat. You'll set off flags being that callow."

"I'm not!"

"Sure Sure." The older man chuckled derisively, then settled on a deadpanned look. "Just remember what I told you yesterday. Always be ready to take responsibility for your actions."

...

"Speaking of taking responsibility...weren't you going to triple my pay if I talked to a pretty girl?" 

"Whose money do you think is paying for the service we gave her?"

"I had a feeling." 

---

The scene was an alleyway in the Mirai district, mere moments before midnight, meaning Jutaro Akufuku's bad day was almost over. Just when he thought he could exploit some defenseless rich foreigner, he got thrown out of that dingy nightclub. Not like he cared, he was already a wanted criminal and worse, a prison escapee. It was only a matter of time before the cops pinned the serial murders on him. He'd only hit up 3 unlucky bastards who'd seen his face and recognized him. The problem was the media sensationalizing the crap out of it. Now he was being confused for Genocide Jack. Like he'd ever be nutty enough to crucify his victims. Hell, murder by itself was something he'd normally never resort to. At best, Akufuku was a thief; he never got caught or harming anyone, because he didn't need to.

His life was blessed with good fortune ever since childhood, save his parent-less circumstances. He robbed his first bank at age 18 and made off with tens of thousands, he'd gotten in dangerous situations and snaked by everyone. Lady luck was always on his side and stealing became so easy that he did it as more of a hobby than a necessity. Then...one day, was it a year ago? He couldn't remember the exact date, and he wasn't sure he wanted to. Unlike most criminals who etched the day of their capture into their minds, along with the circumstances that led them there...he tried to forget it all and everyone involved. It had been the worst day of Jutaro Akufuku's life. He'd made off with gorgeous jewelry and a clean get-away was in his sights. Everything was going so splendidly then he met that thing. He...It was like a void, a black hole of misfortune that drained away every last bit of luck Akufuku had. The runaway convict had never seen anything like it. Suddenly everything that could go wrong, did go wrong. Just the faint memory of that childish face, green hoodie and stupid hair sent Akufuku in a frenzy of maddened rage and fear. If there was still any good in his life, he prayed that he would never come across that kid again.

Akufuku slumped by the wall.

Now he was here. Akukufu heard the stories from the inmates. A large section of the city cut that was somehow isolated from the law. It sounded like the perfect place to run away to, and sure enough, he hadn't seen the feds crawling since he arrived days ago.  He'd stolen enough in this district to afford some better clothes, and a meal but it wasn't enough. Not nearly enough as what he used to make. Furthermore, Akufuku was no fool. He'd seen gangsters and alike walking around and picked his targets carefully, as to not stir the hornet's nest. So he'd make due to with mediocrity until he worked his way up the food chain. 

"Hm?" A flash of gold crossed his eyes. It was hair that you would never find on a Japanese, and Akufuku would never forget a foreigner who looked like that. "Maybe my luck's finally turning around." It was the broad from the club. He didn't know what she was doing out here, but now was his chance.

She gasped when he forcefully gripped her arm, twisting her body so she had no choice but to  face him.

"Been a while." Akufuku said.

"It is you, from earlier." She said in that snobbish high-class voice. Dumb kids should know better than to hang out in dingy alleys. He was doing her a favor by teaching her a very valuable lesson.

"Yep, those assholes really made a fool of me, but we don't have to worry about them now." He licked his lips

"Would you please unhand me?"

He tightened his grip on her arm. "Shut the hell up. I'm in a bad mood. Do what I say and nobody gets hurt." He flicked open a switch knife and held it against the girl's neck. He was lying, of course. He'd find some way to get the money he needed first then get rid of her. He wasn't stupid enough to leave this girl alive as a witness

"Now just give me what I want."

---

It was almost 3 minutes till 12. Toko Fukawa sat on her bed, having just finished eating the dinner Naegi left at her door. The mousy dork actually kept his one-sided promise and left the meal by her door after knocking. Fukawa didn't know why he'd arrived at such a late time, far past dorm curfew hours, but she didn't care. She didn't even know why Naegi bothered to look after her. The author did not deserve an ounce of kindness from anyone, and those who showed it got what was coming to them, assuming they were male.

T-That idiot Naegi was lucky. Fukawa was certain he didn't quite meet up to Her standards. 'Her' being Genocide Jack. The notorious serial killer the media has been abuzz for years. The chaos died down since Fukawa entered high school. She'd had less transformations since then, but there was always the occasional outburst. The most recent having taken place weeks ago. Fukawa had the scar etched onto her thigh to prove it. She marked down the number of Her victims, as penance, so she would never forget her crimes.

Nobody else knew her of Fukawa's true identity. She'd managed to successfully keep it a secret from the entire world. It wasn't that hard in hindsight. She had no friends, and her family didn't give a rat's ass about her. It was depressingly easy to mask that she was a reviled serial killer. As if the author's life wasn't terrible enough, she just had to get disassociate personality disorder as extra baggage. What had she done to deserve it? Was it her ineptitude? Her appearance?

She could never find an answer, and she sure as shit couldn't confide in anyone about it.

Fukawa wasn't an idiot. The cause didn't matter. Jack existed, and all she could do was resolve to suppress her other half. Fukawa wouldn't let Her do as she pleased anymore. And so she'd locked herself up in her dorm room for days. Without contact from the outside, she was less likely to transform.  Less likely to take more innocent lives.

And less likely to be caught by the police and executed.

"I can't l-let her keep ruining my life." Fukawa hugged herself as she peered at the pale moon outside her window, mentally cursing her other half.

---

"Beautiful." Korekiyo Shinguji celebrated the final minutes of this momentous day and what could be more joyous than the thought of his dearly beloved sister making her 98th friend? In the depths of an alleyway, the self-styled anthropologist gazed down at the fallen form of his sister's newest companion; a sweet girl, who moments earlier brimmed with life. He had not kidnapped her, nor had he co-erced her in some way. Nay, he merely asked to meet her here, and the kind, honest soul acquiesced of her own will. Shinguji had stalked his pray eagerly and carefully, learning all there was to about her and presenting himself in a manner that catered to her tastes. He'd done this many times before. 97 times to be exact and all throughout the globe. He was a wandering nomad without a place to call home...and that made him much harder for the authorities to track. He would seep into he hearts of his victims like poison to water, assess whether they were worthy of his older sister's friendship. In the event they were, he would grant them the honor of joining her in the afterlife. 

His life's mission was to reach the hundredth degree. That meant a mere 2 more. Shinguji pondered, should they be male or female? He had a strong bias towards the latter case, and found the idea of a platonic male-female relationship as unrealistic in the long run. For his sister was beautiful beyond measure, no man would be able to control themselves for too long. Not unless their hearts were equally as pure, and he rarely found such specimen. On that note...there was one in the Mirai district that might have been worth looking into. Shinguji regretted not looking into the boy's wallet while he had the chance. If they met again, then perhaps he would be worth adding.

Yes, he had decided. One male and One female. "Just like Noah's arc." The glutton of culture and history was consumed with mirth.

The traveler had learned within days that the area was a den of criminals. That the denizens of the darker side of civilization could walk freely. The fact that he had not so much as witnessed a single officer of the law. That so many resembled himself. An intriguing development for a lover of culture and humans as he. How was such a hidden paradise for the underworld manufactured? How did the district maintain order? Who conceived the idea? For what purpose? All these questions were worthy of attention, and he intended to find an answer to each one...as a second priority to his true mission of course.

Ironically, the lawless zone of the Mirai district made it easy to target, but he would never do so. His sister deserved only the most upstanding of souls. And for the final 2, he would be even more scrupulous of their qualities than the rest. They must be special beyond all the others. It might take weeks or perhaps years to find the right one...Or maybe just months, the duration left until he officially became The Ultimate Anthropologist. Hope's Peak Academy held the best and brightest in the nation, perhaps the world. Surely, there was no better place for prospects his sister's age. Eager as he was, Shinguji already researched and isolated potential targets. The idol famous across the nation. A programmer of unparalleled genius. A fashion model with unmatched charisma. The princess of an entire nation.

His shuddered in glee at the trials awaiting him.

In the mean time, he would merely keep his eyes peeled, and perhaps perfect his methods. After hearing Nagito Komaeda's advice, Shinguji opted to...liberate in a more humane way; This one had not even understood what had occurred until Shinguji had was well underway choking the life out of her. The smell of blood was too dangerous a giveaway. He needed to be more clever, more cautious. The old proverb said it best; the higher you climb, the further there is to fall. 

...That was when he remembered Komaeda's second warning...or was it a prophecy of sorts? A blatant prediction that Shinguji's would be foiled by this Makoto Naegi, a man he had yet to meet .

"Ridiculous." Shinguji laughed looked to the full moon in all its incandescence, enveloped in rapture. He was close, so close to his goal. 

He walked away from the corpse. The moon's light shining on him every step of the way.

---

 A screech filled the alley. Though no other was around to hear it. It was a comical sight to the hunter, but dreadful to the hunted. Who was which? You only needed eyes to see. The dominant one was doubtlessly herself, while the unfortunate man limping away on the ground, leaving trails of his own blood, was the prey.

"You are exceptionally terrible at this." Sonia Nevermind said with disdain as she observed the bug crawling away.

"Somebody, save me!" Jutaro Akufuku or whatever he was called cried out. Nevermind has requested his name and he gave it, no doubt believing he had nothing to lose from revealing his identity to one he had full intention of silencing. What a poor liar, and a fool. Although, he admittedly recognized the gravity situation rather quickly after she disarmed and speared his abdomen with his own knife.

Thus, she discerned that he was an intelligent man, just not very wise. There was a difference.

"So many mistakes, but two stood out as jarring to me." Nevermind walked slowly, stalking her prey. "You already humiliated yourself once today right in front of me. What makes you think I'd be intimidated by you after that display?" A monster must never show weakness or prove itself fallible. Horror movies followed such principles.

"Second is that you should have made sure your target was weaker than you. Shouldn't that have been common sense?" She cocked her head to the side, he would have had more success incapacitating her first, then announcing himself once he had the absolute advantage. The man eventually stopped struggling and laid motionless.

"Pity, but it appears luck was not on your side."

Nevermind had not lied to Naegi and Amami. She truly had wandered here at one point. There, a man attacked...or tried to before she overpowered him. He begged for his life, absolutely assured that he would die. Nevermind found his certainty...strange to say the least. If you accost someone, you do not normally expect that they will retaliate with an equal or greater amount of violence, merely enough to protect themselves. That is the restraining rule of self-defense. Nevermind did not believe she had an imposing appearance either, and she was unarmed...yet, this man feared he would die by her hand, as if no law would stop her. She merely inquired on the oddity and the floodgates opened; Nevermind was given a wealth of information on this lawless zone. A singularity where murderers, thieves, conspirators walked free, checked only by their own vices and desire for self-preservation. She had been told the three major rules. Nothing is prohibited. Assume responsibility for all your actions. Do not attack outsiders. The man had broken the third rule. Thus she had him uphold the second...by following through with the first, herself.

Afterwards, she prowled the streets alone, intentionally appearing vulnerable to see who would take the bait. It needn't be said at this point that Sonia Nevermind was extraordinary. She had a greater acceptance for the broad spectrum of man than most. That is to say, she was less sensitive to the evils of man than most. Criminals, swindlers...serial killers. The princess did not look down on these people nor did she condemn them. Instead, she classified  them as "different" from the majority of society. One could say that she was a genuine lover of humans in all forms, including the differences in value systems. She was more enthralled by those differing and conflicting perspectives than the people themselves. Following that logic, it should be no surprise to hear that Nevermind did not hate the men who accosted her. They acted true to their own nature and the circumstances that brought them there. Of course, she also wasn't naive enough to believe mere differences excused the weight of responsibility. There wouldn't be a need for the law if everyone could get away with crime just for being different.

"If you behave in a manner as to risk one's life, do not be surprised if you find your own life at risk" She giggled. In that regard, she found the second rule of the Mirai district to be truly ingenious.

That said, she wasn't wandering aimlessly. Nevermind was fascinated by serial murders in particular. Mainly fascination with their mental faculties - What went through the minds of men who thought so little of their brothers and sisters and would sacrifice them for personal pleasure. Ah, to stop beating around the bush. There was one particular murdered she dearly wished to meet. One that so stealthily evaded the police despite their record high number of kills. Who were they? How did they do it? Why go through to leave such an eccentric murder scene in their wake.

She wished to know everything about this killer, including how they who had stolen so many lives would react to having their own life ripped right through their fingers. Certainly a person at the furthest extreme for normality. The blonde hoped to find that person here.

"I wonder just what sort of spectacle you will show me when we meet, Genocide Jack." She would act as a judge and imitate the man her country called the killer of killers and evaluate the murderous fiend with her own eyes. "The lead star of justice that shines in the night sky! That would be me...Sparkling Justice!"

Sonia ceased walking as a recent memory came to mind. She gazed at the full-moon, a wide grin appearing on her face. "Bloody Mary." The phantom covered in blood from head to toe and the first queen of England who left only a river of blood and corpses in her rule. She wouldn't deign to think the comparison was unintentional. Then there was that red-eyed girl...Maki Harukawa was it?

Nevermind giggled, then burst into poorly suppressed laughter. "This would make Naegi-san at the center. I wonder if there's more to him than meets the eye." After those enthralling words of his right before she left, Nevermind hoped so. "I shall stick to him like glue!"

...

Under the moon's light, Hope's Peak Academy's 77th, 78th and 79th students - entangled in murder - walked down separate paths that would ultimately converge and meld into a singular destination; an incident sparking the powder keg that would envelop the city in mayhem.

Chapter Text

“I’m back, everyone.”

The crowd of children plus one adult collectively faced the door.

Aoi Asahina walked into view.

It’d been that way since they were teenagers, and time had done the now Olympic swimmer no disservice.

“”“Aunt Asahina!”””  The pink-haired twins, and the muscle-brained trio (Yoshi, Ayato and Dai) practically jumped her on sight.

“Hehe. There’s a little bit of Hina for everyone~” There really was. She practically  pulled all 5 of them into a hug.

Me too please.  – Like he could say that without being knocked through the window. And considering they were on the top floor? He’d die for sure.

Oh well, he’d just settle for the warmth of his little angel. Chisaki’s light snores indicated she’d fallen asleep in his arms.

“You guys have been taking good care of Hiro, right?”

“Real funny, sister.” Hiro rolled his eyes.

“Hina, come listen to Hiro’s story. It’s not fuckin’ boring for once.”  The foul mouthed Kenma said.

“Xnay on the storytimekay, you little monster.” Hiro glowered at the freckled boy, a mirror image of Kuzuryu, save the silver hair and spectacles. The ex-clairvoyant’s lips twitched upwards when he saw the runt’s his sister pounded his head with a wooden sword.

“That hurt!”

“How many times have I told you to stop embarrassing us with your mouth?” Shizuku seethed.

“But dad does it all the time-okay okay, I’ll be quiet.” Kenma cowered as the sword was raised again in warning.

Shizuku sighed. The young heiress’ black kimono contrasted her long, flowing bleach-blonde hair, that had taken almost a silver quality. Her naked, golden eyes fell on Hina as she bowed. “I apologize, Asahina-san. Ken’s not wrong when he says it’s father’s fault that he’s picked up those bad habits. I’ll have to thoroughly advise him to be more careful…again.”

“Sounds like you have it rough.” The swimmer gave the girl a pitying look.

“…If only mother could be more assertive when dealing with them.”

Fat chance of that.

“Which story is it, Hiro?” Hina asked.

Just as he proceeded to say ‘The same as always’ he got cut off.

 “Hiro’s telling us about Nagi!” Saika said.

Asahina gave him a look of disbelief, then calmly dropped the boy. The pink-haired grim reaper that sealed his fate, was confused by the action and the sudden drop in temperature.

The others parted as Asahina made his way over, very menacingly, might he add. In fact. Hiro was certain the angel in his arms was his only shield against this queen of violence.

“Of all the irresponsible-” Hina starts.

Hiro cuts her off with a raised hand. “Yeah, I was running out of material and thought ‘Why not tell the brats about their parents’ high school days’. What’s the worst that could happen?”

“They’re too young! You can’t decide that for yourself.”

“Chill Hina, who do you think I am?” He whispered into her ear. “I’ve been watering down the juicy bits, this is totally Rated – E.”

That consolation calmed Asahina somewhat. She sighed as he pulled back. “Even so…it involves a lot of us. You could at least have asked for consent!”

“Babe, the only reason I’m doing story time is because you guys left me on babysitting duty AGAIN and I had to entertain.” Yeah, old man Hiro had a right to be mad too!

“Yeah…I’m surprised we even give you that much responsibility…Toko especially. Maybe this is our fault.” Asahina gazed at the sleeping Chisaki, snuggling against Hiro’s chest.

 “Aunt Aoooi, you’re interrupting!” Yoshi said, his tanned skin mirroring her own. His toned definition, despite his age, showed in the cut off of his white karate uniform.  If Hina were about 20 years younger, the muscled freaks would have numbered 4 strong. Giving that Yoshi was also Sakura’s kid, it was no surprise he was one of Hina’s favorites.

Suddenly, a white gloved hand found its way onto the boy’s head, gently stroking his hair. “Yoshi’s correct, Uncle's had my interest peeked since mother entered the fold.” Cain Nevermind said, practically glowing thanks to the combination of golden-blonde hair and unstained white suit. He was reminiscent of a politician if one could be allowed at that age. “Uncle Hagakure, I implore you continue at once.”

‘Implore he said’ so why did Hiro feel like he’d just been given an order?

“…you haven’t heard anything bad about your mom…right?” The concerned Asahina asked the blonde boy. Hiro could understand why. It’d be messed up to hear your own mother was involved in shady stuff when she was a teen. That’s why Hiro had "embellished" the story a tad. As he would quickly find out, the older kids were smarter than he gave them credit for.

“That depends on who you’re asking, Aunt Asahina.” A shadow was cast on the princely boy’s face as he continued. “I’ve yet to hear anything that would change my opinion of mother. She merely executed-“ Cain cut himself off, turning to the younger children, each sending him a curious (or disturbed) gaze. He promptly corrected himself and dispelled their apprehension with a radiant smile “-dispensed justice and drove off a vile offender. Disciplining the unlawful and preserving the peace is expected of royalty.”

“I am also well versed in our parents’…disciplinary methods and understand that they may be necessary at times.” Shizuku gripped the hilt of her bamboo sword, holding it perpendicular to the ground.

“Kids are scary nowadays.” Hagakure scratched his scruffy hair. Seeing as he failed to fool the older ones, he turned to the younger bunch. “What about the rest of you? Get anything out of this?”

“Cain’s mom roughed a punk up a little. What’s the big deal? Just patch em back together.” Dai stuffing her bandaged hands into her jean shorts. The rebellious youth had purple hair in a pony-tail, a red baseball vest overtop a striped blue shirt. None of which impressed nearly as much as the scowl that could send grown men running for the hills. It was the exact opposite with her mom.

If Shizuku was a sheathed blade, Dai was like an axe. A lot more crass and completely lacking tact. Kind of like right now when she proved to have fallen for his lies.

Hey, at least they worked on some. Man, this soooo wasn’t a good idea.

“So Nagi was a student at Hope’s Peak Academy as well?” Priscilla mused. She had dark hair with red streaks, that was tied up in a bun and kept there by an ornamental pin. Much like Celestia did, Priscilla dressed oddly, but unlike her mother, her tastes favored Chinese dresses instead of western. Right now, she wore a two-piece clothing. The top was a scarlet robe, a black stole running down the sleeves, and a long white skirt.

Shame Priscilla never picked up the sick drill tails. Hiro would never say it aloud, but Celes made one hell of an impression with them. Like it just screamed “I would kill you for money” and as a man of worldly desires, Hiro could respect that.

Priscilla perched on chair besides the bar counter, with a cup of tea (it friggin better be tea!) in hand. Raki stood by her side, serving her, not unlike a butler would. The boy was tall for his age, and already had his ears pierced with diamond earrings like his father. On the other hand, he had his mom’s blue hair and eyes. He wore a simple, yet fashionable white summer dress shirt, a tie over top and blue jeans.

 “Not bad.” Priscilla said, after sipping a cup.

Even Asahina had to double-take at the sight along with Hagakure. They could both attest to seeing that exact scene once, only with different people.

“Were you even listening?” Hagakure chided.

Raki clapped his hands, shooting Hiro an apologetic look. “Aha…I got distracted.”

“I was paying attention. Romantic coincidences are nice. I thought a drink would go well with it.” Priscilla smiled. Like, a real one, not the condescending evil one Celeste gave pretty much everybody.

Yeah, the gambler was about top 5 in the “people I never want to scam and meet in a back alley later” list.

“If it’s romance you’re looking for, I could sing a few songs that could melt your heart away.” The bluenet flirted

"That try-hard still hasn't given up.” Kenma scrunched his nose.

Priscilla shook her head. “Maybe if you were A rank…”

“Ah…still not high up on those rankings.” Raki slumped…then bounced back. “That just means I have to try 120% harder to impress.”

“Don’t hurt yourself. I’m not that cruel.” Priscilla’s fingers gently tugged at the boy’s tie. “I don’t have the talent to lie to myself like my mom. That makes me express myself more honestly.”

You know what. Instead of grabbing the tie, it looked more like an owner pulling a dog’s leash.

“Raki, you promised to sing with me!” The younger Mika practically clawed at his sleeves. He dressed simple enough, a green shirt and white shorts. Shame his multi-colored hair and eyeliner made it pretty tough to tell he was a boy at first glance.

“Huh? Weren’t you listening to Hiro’s story, little guy?”

“Um…no, I was…just a little…distracted. You promised! Don’t forget!” He raised a fit to bang against Raki’s leg but found himself carried by the older male.

“Alright already. C’mere.”

 “You think you can play around while serving me?” Priscilla lifted a curious eyebrow.

Raki didn’t miss a beat towards what would have been a loaded question for most guys. “Sure I can. What kind of performer would I be if I couldn’t entertain only two of my favorite people in the world?”

“Flattery is fine, but you’re a conceited guy...”

“What can I say? If I put my mind to it, there’s nothing I can’t do~”

“…B rank”

“Did I go up or down?”

“Up.”

He gave a wry smile. “Man, who or what, is A rank?”

“The prince.” Priscilla’s red nail jerked towards the prince, the latter of whom was surprised to hear his name.

Raki folded his arms, a skeptical look forming. “Him? I mean, looks-wise I could buy, but the second he opens his mouth…”

“What’s that I hear?" Cain sneaks up and pats Raki on the shoulder. "Cil thinks you’re only under one rank below me. That’s a huge underestimation of the gulf between us in just about every facet of life, but still, what an honor! You might even be close to finally winning her over.” Cain’s delivery contains not a shred of malicious intent.

That makes it worse, not better in Hiro’s modest opinion. Nevertheless, Raki tanked blow after crushing blow like a champ and kept on smiling. It reminded the Hiro of the boy’s mother…or his aunt. Those sisters were practically identical. “I feel like I should be mad. Is he congratulating me, or trying to piss me off? I think I’m getting angrier by the second, so yeah I’m mad.”

Priscilla giggled. “It’s a compliment (probably). That natural-born confidence is appealing…from a distance anyway.”

“Being a dick is appealing? Good grief.”

Hiro tore his eyes away from the youthful conversation. “It looks like everyone’s just peachy. See, you’re overreacting, Hina.”

“I guess…” The ex-Ultimate Swimmer’s intensity had faded.

“I don’t know why you doubted me.” Not like he knew what got in her pants in the first place. “If the parents are weirdos, the kids will be too.”

Hina gently kicked him on the shin. “Force of habit. You’re not exactly Mr. Straight Arrow.” Despite her complaints about his character, she smiled amiably.

“Lay off. I’m a responsible and productive member of society!”

“…what is it you do for a living again?”

“Ugh, you’re as bad as Akane.” She forgets every time! “I’m a social worker. Dealing with problem children and adults  - basically the same thing, in my experience – is my job.”

“Riiiight. I wonder why I can never remember.”

“Because there aren’t any balls to kick around?” Technically incorrect, he’d seen some expert kicks from a few angry wives to their husband’s prized jewels.

”Why’d you go for that? Here I thought you’d be making scams out of your fortune telling and dodging loan sharks for the rest of your life.”

“So did I…but I dunno, I got tired of the whole runaround and decided to settle.” In his youth, he’d made a living of teaching his clients how to avoid disaster. Practicing as a social worker wasn’t much different. “And this way, I feel a little closer to my mom, y’know?”

It wasn’t as cool as being a doctor, but he saved people in his own way.

Hina’s arms reached around as she pulled him into a hug, rubbing against his chest “Aw, that’s so adorable. I’m proud of you, Hiro.”

Hell yes! Why doesn’t he say sappy stuff like that more often? Chicks dig it.

“Get off!” said a whiny voice, not belonging to either him or his long time friend.

Hiro looked over to see a fair-skinned boy in a red track suit pinned to the ground. Ayato’s face was planted on the floor, pleading for Yoshi to stop sitting on his back.

“If you surrender.” The junior martial artist crossed his arms, making himself right at home while using the other boy as a seat.

“No way!” Ayato struggled. Hiro mused that the kid’s blue scarf was cutting off the circulation to his brain.

“Then get comfortable.”

An all too common sight and expected all the same. Being the offsprings of Nekomaru and Akane, along with Ogre and Kenshiro, these 2 children had competition running in their veins. It was inevitable that Ayato and Yoshi would become rivals; be it in fighting, running, eating or whatever.

If you decided talent was all in the genes, then Yoshi clearly pulled out ahead. No offense to his seniors, but Ogre was on a different level. But, there just somethings children developed that allowed them to surpass their folks.

“Are you sure?” Ayato asks

“Huh?”

“If you’re going to sit on me all night, then I’ll get back stamina. You’ll never know when I might pull one over on you.”

Yoshi thinks the possibility over and concludes. “I could do a lot more…like break your bones and make you say uncle.”

Ayato snorted “A real martial artist would win without using too much force.”

There’s a collective eyeroll in the room.

“A real…martial artist?” Yoshi asks, slowly.

“Yeah, you can’t call yourself one until you’re at least that good.”

The martial-artist wannabe’s eyes widen at the obvious (to everyone else) trap and loosens his grip. “…Geh.”

Ayato wore a catlike grin, and just when his captor’s guard was down, he slipped away. Yoshi fell unceremoniously to the ground, moments before he found the earlier positions switched. Now Ayato stood above him.

Yoshi squirmed underneath Ayato’s grip, the latter bending his arm backwards. “Stop, it hurts!”

“Give up first.” He pulled harder

“I give!”

“Work on training your brain more, Yoshi! If you pick a fight then make sure you see it through.” Ayato released his captive, taking several steps back. The indignant Yoshi chased him around the second he was free.

‘And there you had it.’ Hiro sweatdropped. Ayato was often the winner of their little bouts. Not because he was as physically gifted, but because he found some way to make Yoshi lose with words alone.

Hiro sighed. “Stop fighting, you’ll hurt yourselves.”

“Ah, don’t be a spoilsport, Hiro. It’s just good ol’ exercise.” Hina chided him.

“No see. This is what you should be overreacting to. What if they-“

Hiro was cut off by the sound of broken glass. He dared to turn back, to see the two morons huddled over one expensive looking (and BROKEN!) vase.

“How much do you think that cost?”

“Do we really want to find out?”

Hina clapped her hands.

“Get your butts over here everyone. Story time’s back on!”

In the end, we’re still storytelling? “This makes you my partner-in-crime.” He’d need her. After all, more of these brats would be showing up soon.

Hina shrugged and shook her head. “Just like old times. Where’d you leave off?”

“I just got to Fukawa, Nevermind and…Shinguji.”

“Oh boy.”

Volume 2

Blood Like Lemonade

Chapter Text

 December 16^th 2010

*Sigh*

“What is the matter, Nagi-san?”

Who knew when Naegi would finally get accustomed to that fake name…or his new surroundings. He cleaned a glass with soft white cloth, glancing at the nightly festivities. The bar counter was in the middle of the venue’s main floor, giving customers easy access to refreshments.

Naturally, that also gave Naegi a wide view of the environment.  Be it the dancing, eating or what he could only presume were dealings based on the open suitcases of money between overtly suspicious looking men, Fantasia was certainly no place for a teenager like himself. If he were caught by the proper authorities, it probably wouldn’t end with just a warning. The same went for his senior sitting on the opposite side of the counter.

“Nevermind-senpai…” Naegi sighed. The blonde helped him out of a sticky situation some time ago, and since then, their paths had continued cross. Not that it was in any way a bad thing. Naegi would never lament the company of a pretty girl.

He just wished they never had to meet here of all places. “Would you care for a drink? Preferably water?” He hoped. Despite the princess’ tolerance for alcohol, he was not tolerant of serving it to her.

“No need. I’m more interested in what has you in the rubbish.”

‘Did she mean to say the dumps?’

There wasn’t a simple answer he could give to her simple question. After all, no part of his life had been simple for weeks with the dilemmas he’d tacked on.

And now he was being blackmailed into working as a bartender by the most crooked guy he’d ever met

Thanks, Komaeda.

Haaa…He didn’t want to talk about it. Instead, there was another matter and no less pressing. “One of my classmates hasn’t left her room in a long time.”

“Oh dear, is she alright?”

“I…don’t really know. I bring her food every night and groceries whenever I can, but I’ve only seen her once. The other times, she yells at me through the door if I prod enough.”

“If she never opens her door, how does she acquire your gifts?”

“I leave them in front. They’re always gone by the time I come back.”

“You musn’t, you will only enable her anti-social habits that way. You should instead draw her out with the promise of food and the threat of starvation.” Nevermind suggested.

“Normally I’d agree but Fukawa-san is stubborn. She might actually die of starvation before giving into an ultimatum…especially from me.”

“I see, but why should she feel the need to isolate herself?”

“She won’t budge an answer.” Naegi sighed.

“And you are troubled by this matter, correct?”

“That goes without saying.”

“Then might I lend some assistance?”

Naegi cocked his head to the side.

“Then as usual, I shall wait till the end of your shift, then we’ll make a trip to the convenience store.”

“As usual.” He sighed for the umpteenth time. It had become routine for him to take the princess home. She wouldn’t listen to his advice of staying away from the area…and he couldn’t abandon her to walk by herself.

The brunet looked to the LCD screen hanging in the corner.

More gruesome deaths by the modern-day Ripper, Genocide Jack.

“Can you tell me what the plan is now?” Makoto’s hands were filled with grocery bags.

“We wish to draw her out, then we only need to catch her in the act.” Nevermind beamed on their way to the girls’ dorms.

“The act of what?”

“Opening her door. I cannot see how else she would get the bag inside. If you’ve made a pattern of delivering food each night, she should be expecting to pick it up around this time.”

“Oh I gotcha…but aren’t we kind of far away? Even if she opens the door, she’ll close it as soon as she notices us.”

“Leave that to me.” Nevermind stretched her legs like she was about to run track. Did she think to run all and intercept Fukawa?

From the entrance to the hallway where they hid and Fukawa’s room, 3 doors down. Nevermind would need to be quick...which she was.

Naegi’s cheeks burned at the memory of the reverse princess carry. Man, he was lucky nobody was around to see that…hopefully.

“By the way, Makoto.” The way she called his given name would need just as much getting used to as his fake name. “How long does it normally take your friend to step out?”

“Uh, I dunno. It shouldn’t be too long.”

“I see.”

They waited 10 minutes in silence.

“Perhaps she isn’t home.”

That might’ve been the best-case scenario, if she was fine enough to finally leave the dorms. However…

“That could be…but I’d like to think she’d have told me and said there wasn’t a reason to keep dropping off supplies.” Naegi paused, then continued. “Fukawa wouldn’t pass up the chance to tell me to quit being a pest, either.”

“…You are popular in the strangest of ways.”

“I-It’s not like I mean for these things to happen.”

“Yet they still do. Perhaps you have a cursed fate?” Her eyes sparkled with curiosity.

“That’s the last thing you should find fascinating. My unluckiness is just a talent.”

“For reals?”

“Y-Yeah…I’m the Ultimate Lucky Student. It’s nothing special, I just find myself in bad situations more often than not.”

The princess covered her mouth. “I didn’t think your similarities to Komaeda-kun went beyond appearances.”

Naegi pouted. “At least I’m not a jerk who leaves you in a mess and doesn’t even call.”

“Yup. Naegi-kun’s overly nice and the type to mope when he’s alone.”

“T-That’s not true, Amami-kun!” … Naegi blinked, slowly turning his head around to see his green-haired roommate crouching down behind him. “Amami-kun?!” Naegi inched back a bit too far, bumping into Nevermind and sending them both falling unceremoniously.

“That’s my name, don’t wear it out.” Amami held his hand up, bemusedly.

“W-W-W-What are you doing here?”

“I’d answer but…don’t you have something else that needs doing?” Amami looked over him

“Eh?” Now that he mentions it, the ground was surprisingly…soft

“Makoto…would you please remove yourself?” Said a voice as gentle as it was fearsome.

Naegi squeaked and hastily recovered to his feet. From his position, he didn’t know where his hand touched, and he doubtlessly would never find out.

“S-Sorry. I-It was an accident.” He apologized, bowing his head as the princess dusted off her skirt.

“That is good to hear. Thankfully, I don’t need to plan out your timely execution.”

“He…haha…good one, Senpai.”

“Is she joking though?” Don’t ask questions nobody wants answered, Amami-kun!

“How did you find us, Rantaro?” Nevermind asked.

“I overheard you two at the bar…and Naegi here, never came back. I thought he might have gotten caught up in something again.”

‘Why are you making me sound like a lost dog?’

Nevermind stared at Amami with a hint of skepticism. “That does not explain how you found us.”

“Ah that’s…” Amami trailed off, overlooking even Nevermind now. “Is that your friend over there?”

The campers’ heads whipped around to see a head of unkempt purple hair sticking out from the door way. The figure slowly exited, hands reaching for the bag Naegi had dropped.

“Fukawa-san!” Naegi chirped at the sight of her…and regretted opening his mouth instantly as he closed it. The novelist took one frightened look at him and went into a temporary shock; one that lasted a moment.

But that ephemeral period was enough for Nevermind to put one foot in the door before it could be closed. In truth, the blonde sprinted immediately after Amami’s heads up.

Naegi was once again astounded by Nevermind’s agility. He was quickly learning that his preconceptions of noblewomen…didn’t match reality.

‘Oh right…I should go over there.’

“Fukawa-san, why are you hiding?” He called again.

“S-Shut up…a-and who is this crazy woman?!” Fukawa said as she struggled to slam the door, Nevermind’s grip on the handle and foot in the opening, making that too difficult a task.

“Hello, I am Sonia Nevermind, an upperclassman. Naegi has enlisted my aid in rescuing you.” Nevermind smiled, unbothered by Fukawa’s unease.

“Everyone’s been worried about you. Why don’t you come out?” Naegi asked, eyes filled with concern. His hands now also trying to pry the door further open.

Naturally, this had the opposite intended effect on Fukawa. Because she was made like that.

“Eeek, don’t look at me. I-I know you’re only luring me i-into a false sense of security, it won’t work!”

“That’s…not true. I’m…only…trying to help.” Naegi said between grunts. Despite Fukawa’s slender frame, she was surprisingly strong.

Or he was just super weak.

That was another possibility.

 “Um, Fukawa, was it? It looks like these guys have something to say to you? Mind letting us in?” Amami stood behind Naegi as he held the door open.

“Geh!” With the three of them working together, Fukawa stood no chance…but her reaction wasn’t because of the sudden added “manpower” but rather the “man” himself.

Fukawa screamed as she backed away from the door, running to take cover under her bed sheets.

The three, still outside each wore confounded expressions.

“Is…she always like this?” Amami asked.

“No. We must have really freaked her out.” More like Amami did, but Naegi didn’t want to voice that bit. “I think it might be best if I speak with Fukawa alone. She knows me, so she might calm down.”

“Is that wise?” Nevermind argued. “Our objective is to be forceful else Miss. Fukawa would return to hiding. Are you certain you can persuade her? We’ll get no other chances at an intervention.”

Woah, way to put the pressure on.

“I don’t really get what you guys are up to…but I do know that Naegi’s got a way with words. Let’s leave…whatever this is up to him.”

Naegi stared at the taller boy in awe. “That’s…the nicest thing anyone’s said to me since I can remember.”

“Very well. The two of us shall wait outside. However, please tells us when you’re finished, before you vacate the room.”

“Deal.”

“Fukawa-san…I’m the only one here.”

“Y-You goofball, what do you think you’re doing barging in. I-I’ll call campus security.” Fukawa glared, coming out of her makeshift shell.

“W-Wait, let’s not go that far. I’m just wondering why you won’t leave your room.” He motions to open the windows to let air in. The garbage bags piled up were doing his nose no favors.

 “B-Because I-I’m a disgusting shut-in.” She replies.

Naegi sighs. “You’re not disgusting or a shut-in. You may not like people, but you hate being alone.”

The novelist bites her thumb deeply enough that he wouldn’t be surprised if she tore flesh. “I can’t leave.” She says, finally. “If I leave, I-I’ll only hurt people.”

The luckster furrowed his eyebrows. “Now I’m lost. You’d never hurt anyone.” Well…verbal tics aside.

“W-What do you know about me?” She judges him. There’s a bigger bite than usual in her words.

“For starters…I know you can’t stand the sight of blood.”

“…Tch. Paying that much attention. Are you a stalker?”

He wasn’t going to dignify that with a response.

“Why would you think that anyway?”

“You’re really persistent and clingy.”

He facepalmed. “Not that! Why would you think you’d hurt someone?”

“L-Like I could tell you.” She stares wide-eyed.

The hoodie planted his butt on her bed, sitting cross-legged and arms folded. It was his best impression of a ‘I’m putting my foot down look.’ “I’m not leaving until you agree to come outside.”

“I’ll call security.”

“Go ahead. I’m sure the headmaster will understand if I explain myself, and Nevermind-senpai can back me up.”

“…Why are you so stubborn over the strangest things?” He doesn’t waver under Fukawa’s intense glower.

“There’s nothing strange about lending a hand to someone in need. And It’s not even feasible for you stay in here. Eventually, your absence from class is going to get you expelled.” HPA was still a school…probably. Hey, he could bluff.

“You don’t know what you’re doing. It’s better for everyone if I never leave here.”

The bespectacled girl claws at her hair in a way that gives him pause. “…Then I won’t leave either. You’ll just have to put up with me forever.”

Fukawa gasps, loudly and exaggeratedly. “A-Anything but that. I’d even take that swimming bimbo over you.”

…Amami might be my only ally in this world.

“Ngh! A-Alright fine. I’ll g-go to class tomorrow. Are you happy?” She gives, easily, to his satisfaction. He wonders if that was a good thing when she follows up with “I would probably have left soon anyway. I’m not much for willpower anyway. I’ll always go back.”

 Naegi cocked his head. “If you’re depressed…you should tell someone. If not me, maybe speak with a counselor like that third year?”

“I can’t tell anybody.”

 “…Fine.” You shouldn’t rush these matters. One step at a time. “Have you eaten?”

“I was a-about to.” She glared at him…the guy who brought her food in the first place. “Hey, Naegi. I thought you were broke.”

“Huh?”

“Y-You’ve been bringing me stuff for days.”

“Oh, I-I got a job.” He’d been pinching in with the surplus of cash from his oversized paychecks. He didn’t even know what to do with al that money.

Fukawa’s eyes narrowed in suspicion “Oh right, I remember you were looking.  Where’d you end up?”

“Um…c-customer service.”

“You’re sweating bullets.”

“I-I am not!

“You’re a terrible liar. Why are you lying?” The prey became the predator. Fortunately…and unfortunately, the topic shifts somewhat. “A-And who the hell was that sex god out there?”

“Excuse me?”

“The green-haired hottie. I-I’ve never seen him before, and guys like that aren’t easy to miss.”

…That’s true. Amami stood out. “I-It’s a long story.”

“Hypocritical much.”

Fair enough. “Amami is my…unofficial roommate. Has been for a while.”

“Unofficial?”

“I met him recently. He doesn’t have anywhere else to go till the new semester so…I’m letting him stay with me.”

 “Then….” Fukawa’s face contorted from disbelief to anger. “You’re harboring some guy you barely even know? How gullible are you?!”

“I-It’s not like he’s a bad guy.” Just a little strange.

“Unbelievable…y-you’re exactly the kind of naïve idiot that’d get killed by Jack.” She points. “H-heck, he could be Jack for all you know.”

“T-The serial killer? It’s a bit out there to say I’d ever run into one…” Naegi scratched his cheek. “The day my luck gets that bad, I’ll throw in the towel.”

Purple eyes bore into his

”What?”

“…Never mind. Just forget it.”

Naegi raised his eyebrows at the sudden drop of an outrageous topic. He briefly considered prodding at her suspicious behavior but held back. Fukawa was secretive by nature and he’d already more than pushed boundaries today.

“You sure subvert genre expectations, Naegi.”

“I have a feeling I won’t like what you’re inferring.” Whenever she has that drooling smile, it's cue to exit the conversation.

“U-Usually, the p-protagonist w-would have some big-breasted cow spontaneously rooming with them for one d-dumb reason or another. L-Like that Nevermind or whatever.”

“Please don’t call my friends that.” Fukawa doesn’t listen and continues.

“But two guys, one after the other?”

“I am denying your insinuation with every fiber of my being.” The lucky student deadpans.  

"Uhuh." Fukawa remained unconvinced. “I’ll keep an eye on you.”

“I’m glad you’re feeling like your old self.” He mumbles

The door slammed wide open. “Makoto, you are taking far too long!” Nevermind declared, letting herself in.

“I’m sorry, but she isn’t used to waiting on others, from the looks of it.” He returns his classmate an apologetic look.

“Shouldn’t keep girls waiting, dude.” Amami walked behind the princess, waving to Naegi and Fukawa. Surprisingly, the author hides behind the brunet’s back.

Naegi searches for an excuse to that display of uncharacteristic shyness. “She’s a little under the weather.”

 “That’s too bad…but I can still say hi, right?” Naegi doesn’t know why Amami phrased that as a question when he proceeds without awaiting an answer. “I’m Rantaro Amami, Since we're both Naegi's friends, that oughta make us friends too.”

“T-That’s what you’re saying now. But get close and y-you’ll be the one getting burned.” Fukawa glared.

Amami’s brows lift, then settle. A bashful smile forms “I haven’t heard that line in a while. I might look like a flashy guy who plays around, but I’m really not.”

Fukawa's gaze shifts to Naegi. “Is he stupid?”

“No…just really laidback.”

Chapter Text

“H-How did things end up this way?” A distraught Fukawa laments.

“Whatever do you mean?” asked the princess, sitting across. On the sides are two boys of varying levels of annoying.

“H-How did I get sucked into hanging out with t-two social junkies and Naegi on a weekend!” Toko Fukawa emphasizes the luckster’s name like he’s the punchline.

 “I find that the best cure for depression is to get out of your safety zone and run wherever the wind takes you. That could be the next block, the next city, or even across the country.” Apparently, this Amami person was a traveller. That meant he had less roots in Japan than the average person.

Damn he was shady. But of course, the idiot Naegi would never see that. He’s also the reason Fukawa was flung out of the safe confines of her dorm and into the terrifying wilderness that was the urban mall. The outskirts, after Fukawa had practically begged for a reprieve from the crowds, and to sit outside.

How could she find herself in the middle of amazing, outgoing people? Right. Naegi again.

She glares.

“Um…is something on my face?” He asks.

“Yeah. It’s very punchable.”

“Oh.” He quiets down.

“I-I was only joking, you moppet.” Fukawa frowns. Ugh, it was never fun being the downer when everyone else …wasn’t “H-How’d all of you meet?” They all belonged to different classes, figuratively and literally. Where’s the connection?

“Aha…Fukawa-san’s finally curious about us. Here I thought you’d play hard to get a while longer~” Amami teased.

“That’s a fine way of dodging the question…”

“Amami-kun and I are coworkers.” Naegi answered.

Right, he said something about finally getting a job “What kind of customer service do you provide again?”

“We’re baristas. Naegi’s still pretty green while I’ve got tons of experience.” Amami huffs proudly.

“That is not so. You are much greener than Makoto is.”

“Figure of speech, Sonia.”

Naegi piggyback’s off the model-looking boy. “He’s right. It’s amazing how Amami-kun can weave through the customers like they’ve known each other forever. He gets calls all the time.”

“I’ll bet.” A snide grin forms on the novelist’s face.

“Haha, you’re flattering me.” Amami rakes his hair.  “Maybe you should come out to serve more. Akio looks like he’s having a field day ragging you.”

“Ha…ahaha.” Naegi droops, shadows covering his eyes. Fukawa spots a rare sign of displeasure.

Interesting.

“I shall not have it. Nagi’s place belongs at the back of the counter. Whom else will I give my orders?” Nevermind asked tensely.

“Yeah, he does make a mean drink.” Amami nods.

Fukawa tilts her head. “…Nagi?”

Nevermind gasped “A slip of the tongue. Pardon me.”

Slip? But neither Amami nor Naegi corrected it…

“What about you, Fukawa-san. It’s not fair if we’re the only ones doing the talking.” Amami took control over the conversation.

“I-I never said anything about reciprocating. You answered all on your own.” She argues.

“That is unacceptable. Friendship is a two-way street. Give and take!” Good thing we ain’t friends, blondie!

“You sound like a politician.” Fukawa replied.

“Well I mean, she kind of is?” Naegi interrupted.

He was right but that didn’t make it any less annoying. “What’s to tell, you’re all just going to make f-fun of me, anyway.”

“Why would we would react so crassly?” The drama queen gasps. Heh, queen.

“Tch, don’t think I don’t see through your types. T-There’s nothing about me worth knowing except to get your kicks!” That’s how it was in the past, and it was unlikely to change now or in the future. Because Fukawa herself was the ever-present, static variable.

“’Nothing worth knowing’? Unless I’ve been thinking of another Toko Fukawa, aren’t you an acclaimed author?” Amami inquires.

Ugh, taking that angle huh? “Should’ve known you’d bark up that tree. My books aren’t me.”

“I dunno about that. An author’s work is a window into their thoughts and beliefs. Admittedly, I’ve never read any of yours...” Really selling it there, champ. “Buuut nobody just decides to be an anything. There’s always a story to tell.”

“I’ll keep that to myself.” The cold bite of her tone had even the green-haired boy backing down.

“I agree with Amami-kun on the first part. I’ve actually read your books, you know.” Naegi sitting down to read any book was inconceivable.

“Which one?!”

“So Lingers the Ocean.”

Ah. Of course, it’d be that one. It was her most popular work, the one that appealed to the largest demographic. The midget always goes with the flow. “Well, what’d you think?” She dares to ask for a review.

“It was great.” He says, simply. What comes next is unexpected. “But…I think you might have been forcing yourself.”

The braided-haired girl blinks. “…What?”

“I mean…it’s just not you. The Fukawa I know doesn’t believe in ideal endings. Though I prefer them.” He mumbles.

That gets her motor running. “It d-doesn’t have to reflect my thoughts. It’s a mark of a third-rate writer to project their own opinions and circumstances into their novels. Scratch that, it’s even worse than third-rate. At best, experiences should be brain fodder for references!” Fukawa’s voice grows louder with each sentence.

“I-I’m sorry. I don’t know much about writing after all.” Naegi cowers.

“Don’t mind it, Naegi.” Amami patted him on the head like he was a kicked puppy. “Plus, you were successful.”

“Agreed. As expected, Fukawa-san is passionate about her stories.” Nevermind interjected.

“Who wouldn’t be? It’s my talent…and the only r-reason I’m in this school anyway.”

“What you are good at, may not always be a source of joy.” The blonde pressed a finger to her lip, her positive countenance noticeably dampens. “I’ve always been curious about Japanese culture. Now that I’m privileged enough to experience it, I would prefer to be treated as anything but a princess during my stay.”

…Now there’s a matter that bugged the author.

“About the whole royalty thing, I’ve been wondering…we’re not being watched now right? N-No spies in the background, or s-satellites?” Fukawa’s eyes moved in every direction.

“T-That’s preposterous!”

“Gotta admit, I’ve been thinking the same.” “Yeah me too. I thought it’d be rude to ask though.” The boys chimed in.

 “Like, wouldn’t it be bad if something were to happen to you? I figure you’ve got people watching you 24/7. Honestly, I’ve been on my best behavior in fear of getting jumped and interrogated. It’s stressful for a guy like me.” Amami sighed in a flippant way that failed to ensnare belief.

“All of you are letting your imaginations get carried away.” Nevermind vented. “I took care of all these concerns before I left Novoselic. And if I wished to get in touch with my family, I merely need call. Like so.” Nevermind’s fingers tap her cellphone keys. “Hello, Kay. I require your assistance.”

The trio give blank stares. Moments pass. Very short moments.

Then things get loud.

Their eyes anxiously (as much as could be said in Amami’s case) veer upwards to the blaring noise of rotating fans.

A helicopter hovers over them, and a middle-aged butler slides down a rope ladder. He lands immaculately next to the princess, as if it had been his rightful position all along.

His voice is practiced but conveys affection. “It’s been too long Miss. Sonia. Is something the matter?”

“Good afternoon, Kay. Would you kindly tell my friends that I am not under surveillance?”

The dandy man’s face hardens at them. “Miss. Sonia formed an agreement with her parents after several weeks of negotiations. The terms for residing in Hope’s Peak Academy, are freezing unpermitted interference on the part of the royal family.” He holds up a contract. “Or would you call us liars?”

Headshake x3

“Wonderful.” Nevermind beams, then turns to the butler. “How are mother and father?”

“In good health, miss.” He smiles brightly. “Will that be all?”

“Yes. Thank you for your timely arrival.”

Kays bows, then tugs the rope.

He’s pulled up and disappears as quickly as he came.

A full minute passes. Entirely spent on the three giving the princess stone-faced looks. Let it be a reminder that they were still nearby a mall in the middle of the city,

“Did that just happen?” Naegi gathers the courage and speaks for them all. Not only Amami and Fukawa, but the many onlookers present.

“Did what?” Nevermind tilts her head.

“…Nothing. Never mind.”

“You’re all crazy.” Fukawa deadpanned.

‘And I’m the worst.’

…

Amami looks over in the distance, his brows twitch upwards. “Hey, Naegi. Isn’t that…”

Naegi follows his gaze and his features sport a more exaggerated look of surprise. “Harukawa-san?”

“Hey Maki!” Amami brazenly calls out to a twin-tailed girl.

Blood-red eyes narrow in their direction.

Who’s that broad? If looks could kill, Amami would have died yesterday.

“I don’t know what kind of coincidence this is, but good timing. The idiot-, the boss is out. I need an extra set of hands.” Harukawa said.

“Huh? B-But our shift’s not today.”

“Haha. Naegi-kun, you ought to have noticed the lack of question mark in her sentence. She’s not asking.” Amami said ruefully.

“R-Right. When?”

“Now.”

“…Got it. Um…sorry about this Fukawa-san.” Naegi shot her an apologetic look. A-As if he had any reason to. If anything, Fukawa would be thanking dark, red and edgy over there…

 “…”

“…”

“This is the part where one of you introduces yourself…” Amami coughed.

“This is Toko Fukawa, one of my friends and classmates. This is Maki Harukawa. Our co-worker and friend.” Naegi did the ‘honors. To both girls’ discomfort.

“Who are you calling a friend? I don’t remember signing up for that hassle.” Harukawa spat.

Fukawa snorted. “Good luck with that, sister. This guy’s like a dumb dog desperately seeking attention…or a parasite. Let him hang around long enough and h-he’ll never go away.”

“Tch. I thought he was that type. So annoying.”

“T-That’s not true!”

“Okay, before Naegi-kun’s the one locking himself up outta depression? Let’s skedaddle.” Amami stood up from his seat and glanced at Nevermind.  “Could you keep our dear author busy, Sonia?”

The princess remained quiet during the entire exchange; a calculating eye remained on the intruder. “It would be my pleasure.”

“P-Pleasure? N-Nobody’s ever s-said that about being in my presence before.” Fukawa said.

After several long minutes of walking, the silence had gotten too much for Naegi. “…How are you today, Harukawa-san?” He braves, to no avail. His senior co-worker walked ahead, having not said a word after hamstringing them along.

To most, they would consider her unapproachable. At one point, Naegi would have been counted among them. For better or worse, his time at HPA had dulled his sensitivity to such icy receptions.

‘Right Kirigiri-san?’

An image of the detective appeared in his mind. With a cold look, she says “If I wasn’t a figment of your imagination, I’d kick you in the shins.”

Naegi shakes his head. Maybe he is feeling a bit lonely.

“So diligent, taking Fukawa’s advice already, Maki.” Amami hollers.

“Don’t act so familiarly with me.” Harukawa replies. To him.

“Why not? We’re a ‘family’ now, right?” At that, Harukawa stops and turns around. Her gaze and animosity are poised at Naegi instead of Amami, for some reason

“You.”

“W-what?”

“How do you know Nagito?”

This was a topic he had a feeling would come up eventually. “We met only recently, before he went on vacation. I let him room with me for awhile…and as thanks, he helped me find a job.”

“I assume he didn’t tell you what kind of job.”

Naegi shook his head.

“He roped you into this unknowingly. Why don’t you just quit?” The unwelcome overtones are abundant.

“Hey now. I happen to prefer Naegi’s presence. He brings a charming dynamic to the place.” Amami inserted himself into the conversation. “It’s not fair for you to pick on him just because he knows a guy you don’t like.”

Harukawa glares at the green-haired boy. “Don’t talk like you don’t understand. Nagito’s a piece of shit. That bastard never stops causing trouble for everyone around him. He should hurry up and die already.”

Amami-kun miraculously failed to understand the gravity of the mood. “What’s the story here? Ah, might this Komaeda guy be an ex- “

What occurred next was like out of an action flick from Naegi’s perspective. Harukawa’s hand shot out mid-sentence. He couldn’t tell if she aimed to punch or slap the aloof teen, but her intention may as well have been irrelevant. As Amami dodged by jumping backwards. Discounting the speed at which the girl had struck with, the more perplexing sight was how Amami’s body seemed to move before he registered, he was being assaulted. As proof, his expression only settled after his evasion. “That’s dangerous.”

“You…move well.” Harukawa’s words were as much an inquiry as it was praise.

“If I couldn’t. I’d have died on dozens of times on all my travels.” Amami said.

“With the way you run your mouth, that’s the only logical answer.”

Naegi steps in front of Amami, facing Harukawa. Not to protect the taller male (not that he could), but to bring attention to himself “…Harukawa-san, what you said about Komaeda-kun. Could you take it back?”

Harukawa’s eyes fall to meet his.

“I don’t mind if you call me names or harass me. But I’m not going to stand by and listen to you insult my friend.”

“Friend?” She looks at him like he grew a second head. “Oh right, I forgot I’m talking to the guy who thinks anything that walks within three feet of someone is worth calling a friend. Listen up and save yourself some grief. Nagito doesn’t have friends. You know why? It’s because he doesn’t care about people.”

“I know.” Naegi’s reply is fast and simple, as if the girl had stated an obvious truth. “Komaeda’s selfish to the core. Just about the only things on his mind are talent and hope.” Naegi says bitterly.  Judging from Harukawa’s non-plussed reaction, she assumed he hadn’t clued in on that detail. He’s sorry to disappoint her.  “But even so, it’s not like he’s irredeemable. He has his good points. I know he can be a good person if he tries and opens up to people. Like with me. I barely have a talent, and he still laughed and played with me.”

“…W…hat? -“

“How beautiful.”

… A second, familiar voice mixes with Harukawa’s confusion. They turn to the newest intruder. A man in a militaristic garb with the lower half of his face hidden away. “Pardon the interruption, but I couldn’t help but listen in on your enthralling debate on friendship. You were making quite the scene.”

Harukawa and Amami’s circus act had drawn more than a few, tense and hardened stares in their direction. Naegi looks away before involuntarily making eye contact with any of the scary people. Instead he turns to the newcomer and recalls he’s…not so new after all “I-It’s you! From the other day.” He points.

 “Excuse me?”

“I’m the guy who asked for directions. You found my wallet, remember?”

The long-haired man cocks his head. “I remember that event…but I do not recall you. I don’t forget a face you see.”

Naegi blinked, then cringed inwardly. He slicked his ahoge down on the way over. He reaches for the cowlick and holds it upwards

The other man’s eyes widen sharply, like he’d just been shown the best damn magic trick ever. “It is you. Our paths cross again.”

“Tch. Damn busybody.” Harukawa said

“You sure get around.” Amami follows up.

“He helped me find my way to Fantasia when I got lost.” Naegi explains.

“How nice of you. I’m Rantaro Amami and this is Maki Harukawa. We’re Nagi’s friends.” Ever the considerate roommate, Amami keeps the unwanted lies consistent before Naegi can even get a word in.

 “I was in a rush and didn’t tell you my name. I’m…Motoko Nagi.” Naegi’s smile dips somewhat at lying to someone he just met, but it’s for the best that his identity is kept a secret as long as possible

“I’m Korekiyo Shinguji, a single researcher.”

“Of?” Naegi asks.

“People. It’s hard to explain, but I study cultures and civilizations.” Shinguji’s gaze wanders to Amami. “I’ve an interest in it. As I recall, you mentioned traveling.”

“Sure did. It’s the joy in my life. Going to new places and spotting the diversity, never gets boring.”

“I agree completely. Ever been to- “Naegi’s totally lost as the travelers exchange experiences. Instead, he brings up a terse matter involving Shinguji’s continued stay in the area. “Shinguji-san. Y-You shouldn’t stick around these parts for any longer. I-If you stay too long then- “

“I become a ‘citizen’ of the Mirai district.” Shinguji finishes

“You know?”

“Yes. Not long after we parted ways, I connected the dots.” He says with a raised finger. “Frankly, I’m more interested in your concern for a stranger. You didn’t even know my name until moments ago.”

“I don’t need to know you to be worried about your safety. This place is dangerous to walk around alone. Even if you know that, I can’t recommend it.”

“I see. Well, people like you exist after all. And in a man no less…” Shinguji mutters the last.

“Huh?”

“Just musing to myself. I have a question for you all. It’s a bit of a long shot but would any of you be affiliated with Hope’s Peak Academy?”

“I am. I’m a student.” Naegi replied.

“Hope’s Peak Academy…” Harukawa said lowly.

“That’s fortunate to hear. I will be entering in the coming months. I would appreciate it if I could reach you for advice, Nagi-senpai.”

“S-Sure, no problem.” Naegi blushed and shook his head. “…Wait, you’re an Ultimate?”

“The SHSL Anthropologist to be exact. I did say I studied humans.”

“Wow. Then you’ll be in Amami-kun’s grade.” Naegi points

“Yo. Looks like we’ll be entering together.” Amami places his hands at the hips.

“Then you would be The SHSL Traveler?”

“The SHSL Adventurer.”

Shinguji nods. “I hope to see you all around sometime. Here or elsewhere.” The anthropologist bids them a courteous goodbye. Like an actor acknowledging the end of the scene, he fades into the background

“He was nice.” Amami remarks

“More like creepy.” The negative Harukawa turns around and resumes walking. Until she stops again. “You two. What happened between me and Amami. Forget you saw that.” There’s a foreign anxiety in the girl’s tone.

“That?” Amami rubs his chin, then does the exact opposite of what he was told, or what would be common sense in this scenario. “Oh, was that those killer moves we’ve heard about?”

“Heard…about?”

“Yeah, something about being an assassin.”

“Who told you?” Harukawa flips out. Naegi can almost see her hair standing on its own

“Akio.”

“T-That dick!” She stamps her feet on the ground. It…almost seemed like she was ashamed.

“Did you…want to keep that from us?” Naegi asked.

She returns his questions with a curious one of her own. One Harukawa stumbled onto. “You know about my job…and you still said we were friends?” She refers to the introduction with Fukawa.

“I hadn’t really thought about it… but I’d like to think so.” The luckster replies.

Harukawa’s gaze lingers on him a moment longer. Then she shakes her head.  “I knew it…anyone who could honestly call themselves friends with Nagito must have more than a few screws loose.”

A different but not entirely unrelated conversation between Fukawa and Nevermind takes place elsewhere in a public library. At Fukawa’s behest, Nevermind had brought her to a location she felt was comfortable.

Turns out Nevermind had her own intentions.

“I wish to read your books.” The princess had said.

Fukawa hadn’t a reason to decline, and it would keep the princess occupied and give her a reprieve. How naïve she’d been and realized it when Nevermind finished one of her oldest books in the span of one hour. Then the next, and the next.

“Y-You’re speedreading aren’t you. You can’t possibly have retained all that information!” Fukawa growled, feeling she’d been slighted.

The novelist demanded a test…and Nevermind passed with flying colors.

“That’s not possible.” Fukawa said wide-eyed. Her reading partner answered most of the questions. Only those with fine details had slipped past the foreigner.

“I had a rigorous upbringing.” Was Nevermind’s vague confession. Fukawa knew a lot about fucked up childhoods, thus had the tact to not pry.

“I must say…I agree with Makoto’s earlier assessment, along with Rantaro’s.”  Nevermind started “This ‘So Lingers the Ocean’, feels like it was written by a different person.” Ha! Like you know anything about me sister!

 “Now listen here. I have never plagiarized in my life!” She had standards.

“I didn’t mean to imply that. I merely believe you distanced yourself most in this book, compared to the others.” The upperclassman searched through the books sprawled on the table. There’s a gleam in her eyes as she finds the fated one “If I were to pick the one, I enjoyed most so far…it would be this.”

Queen's Penance.

A shiver crawls up Fukawa’s spine. “W-Why that one?” Again….

Nevermind is ignorant to the torment plaguing Fukawa. “It appeals to me most. Revenge is a typical motive for murder, but the way you wrote it piqued my curiosity. It was quite visceral. The emotions too, it almost read like that your emotions were bleeding through the page.”

Fukawa’s breaks into a cold sweat.

“Something the matter?”

“Y-You are.” Fukawa attacks. That’s the only way she knows how to protect herself.

But Nevermind isn’t deterred in the slightest “I did not mean to make you uncomfortable. I should be more aware of my less-than-acceptable tastes.”

“It almost sounds like you enjoyed reading about the killer.”

“Not quite.” Nevermind giggled. “I enjoyed reading about the woman who was driven to kill.”

Those words marked the beginning. The locks on Toko Fukawa’s heart were deftly picked and wrenched open. This was the start of the twisted relationship between the two killers.

Chapter Text

Makoto Naegi, high-school student, self-proclaimed average a guy, lover of all things popular…and held hostage by a pack of criminals and mobsters.

And by blackmail no less.

It’s not…as bad as it sounds? He works at the bar counter and sells drinks and that’s it. Nothing nefarious and he’s kept in the dark about…whatever goes on in the background. So…if he was ever arrested for breaking the law, he could claim ignorance and that’d be truth!

He sighed.

“Why the long face, kid?” said one of the two customers on the other side of the counter. In the coming weeks, he’d started to get…regulars. In just about any other circumstance, he might’ve been proud.

Not this one though

“He’s probably wracking that puny brain of ways to escape.” Naegi’s captor blows a puff of smoke. He’s standing close enough that the boy reflexively coughs.

If there was one guy in this joint Naegi couldn’t ever see himself getting along with, it was Akio Meruka. It wasn’t like the luckster wasn’t used to that sort of thing.

Be it Harukawa, Kirigiri, Togami, Fukawa and many more, they erect walls (or fortresses in some cases) separating themselves from others, and he could respect that.

But this guy…if Naegi could phrase an analogy, Akio was a demon king at the end of the castle. Only instead of the castle keeping Naegi out, there’s an invitation sign on the open front door daring him to try and get past the dungeons and death traps.

It was a different level of annoying. Naegi couldn’t see this guy as his boss at all.

The smoking did not help.

Irritated, his arm jolts in an upwards angle to snatch the cigarette.

All he catches is air when Akio leans backwards. The short male swipes at him with his other hand, only for the bartender to lean to the other side, out of his reach.

Akio grabs his collar and lifts him up.

Naegi struggles in vain. His legs aren’t even touching the ground.

“Gyahahaha.”

“You’ll get him next time.”

He gets no help from the amused customers; not like he expected any!

“You’re…light.” Akio comments

“Gee...thanks for noticing.” Naegi mumbles in response to the sarcastic remark. He lifts his head to pout at the man…then sees Akio’s expression lacks any trace of mockery. ‘Huh, so that’s how it is.’ A sincere, mundane observation like that, is how Naegi would have described it.

“Put me down, please.” He’d already stopped squirming.

“Ah. Sorry about that.” Akio lowers him to the ground.

“If you’re really sorry, stop smoking in-doors.” Naegi goes back to wiping the glasses clean.

“He’s right. Watching you pisses me off.”

“If ya want to kill yourself, go ahead. Spare us and kid the lung disease at least.”

Akio blinks. “Everyone’s so brazen today. Have you forgotten who I am?”

“An eternal bachelor.”

“A terrible excuse for a human being. This is coming from me.”

“You bastards…”

Naegi observes the back and forth, then directs his attention over to the far off Amami. The boy swims through the guests like they were long-time friends. He’s made for this place. He switches over to Harukawa, who while on the opposite end of the spectrum, organically interacts with the excited customers.

That’s just one packed area of the club. He could hear Yozuru playing the piano in the distance along with cheers.

 “How can they all be so carefree?” Naegi unintentionally says aloud.

“It’d be a problem if they weren’t. This is a place to relax.” Akio remarked. “Got something on your mind?”

“Aren’t any of you worried about the murders?”

“Murders? Oh yeah, the country’s still frizzy over that Genocide guy. Is he still on the loose?” Akio crossed his arms.

“There were a few more killings recently. The newest was a middle-schooler.” A man interjected.

“The victim before that was one of the Yukimarus. That one was a kid too and got both the family and those biker punks in a fit.”

“Aint that a damn sham

?”

2 deaths in recent weeks, to an already staggering total. And nobody had a clue who Genocide Jack was. Fewer people were out at night these days, especially youth. But in the Mirai district, it was like nothing was happening.

“Then we have good ol’ Ronnie rotting away in the trash. I think there was that thief that got shredded too.”

“More messes for Takumi-chan to sweep.”

“No, that last one’s still alive.” Akio remarked.

Naegi’s brow perked. “Huh? There were more? I only heard of the first two on the news.”

“Well yeah, it happened here.”

“He’s still new.” Akio explains to the customers. “Things of that sort…information doesn’t circulate that way in our jurisdiction.”

Naegi nearly dropped the glass. “No no no. It doesn’t matter where you are, people getting murdered always makes the news.” He looked between Akio and the others. Blank stares aplenty.

“R-right?”

A strange man slumbers under a desk in a remote corner of the nightclub. There’s a lot of ground to cover on that alone. Like, why there when there’s beds? How could someone sleep with all this noise? The most important in Naegi’s mind, was why did he sleep all the time?

Whether or not he’d receive answers, he woke him up.

"You're...Hijirihara...right?" Naegi crouches to be eye level with the groggy man.

"You woke me. Couldn't you have waited until I was done sleeping?”

"Well...you're always sleeping. Why is that?"

"What would you say if you were asked why you're always breathing? It's just like that. Sleep is a necessity. More so for me"

“That’s a bit dramatic.”

"I’ve heard. So, what'd you want?" He yawns.

 "Me, nothing. But...Akio-san got irritated with me and said I should come...bother you."

The senior co-worker sighs loudly, he moves. "Unreasonable, isn’t he."

Naegi backs away, giving Hijirihara room to leave his makeshift shell. "How can you work with him?"

"Naegi, was it?"

"Call me Nagi please." He might as well let everyone refer to him that way. Hijirihara barely being among the living wasn’t aware of his precarious position. “Come to think of it. You were able to recognize off the bat, even with my hair down. How?” When apparently so many thought he was in disguise. He had a half a mind to think they were screwing with him.

“It’s…just your hair down, like you said. I can do that too if I wanted.” As proof, Hijirihara points to his own special ahoge. At least some people still made sense. “Nagi then. Now, let's say I told you I'd kill you tomorrow. What would you do?"

"..." Naegi involuntarily stepped back

"Yeah, that's the idea. Now, let's say Jupiter was going to fall on the Earth instead. Still think there's a point running away?"

Oh, that’s what he meant. "C-Couldn't you have used less...scary analogies?"

"I just say what comes to my mind." Hijirihara yawns "…Come with me..." Hijirihara shoves his hands into his pocket and struts off.

"Where are we going?" Naegi follows.

"First to the kitchen. Then we’ll take the elevators."

-[Free Time Event (Takumi Hijirihara]-

"...You're weird." Hijirihara angled his head back when they reached the top floor and exit the elevator

"Hm?" The lucky student pushes the food cart, staring at the lethargic individual quizzically.

"Weren't you afraid when I said I'd kill you as a hypothetical? I wasn't expecting you'd follow me here so easily." He thought I’d resist.  "You must know what kind of place this is by now...or are you more adaptable than you look?" There’s a shimmer in those unnatural scarlet eyes.

"T-That's...can we not talk about that?"

"If you say so." He knocks on the door furthest down to the hallway. “I’m coming in.” He foists a key out of pocket and unlocks the door. “One thing.” The raven-haired man turns to him. “Don’t ever use the word ‘gentle’ around her. Understand?”

Naegi wanted to point out that such an abridged demand wasn’t enough to make anyone understand…but knowing was enough, so he nodded along. Whoever was in there must have been a VIP.

He extends his hand for Naegi to pass through first. The wheels on the cart roll inside and come to a quick halt when Naegi spots a pink-haired girl sitting on a bed. Twin-tails seemed to be all the rage in this place.

Speaking of which, this might’ve been the oddest thing he’d seen yet. The room was vibrant…and pink. Very pink. From the posters, to the sea of plushies, to the curtains. It was blinding.

But really…what’s a kid doing here?

"You're late, Takumi!” Doe eyes (also pink) land on him. “Who's this?"

"The new guy. Play nice."

“I’m Mako- I’m Motoko Nagi. Nice to meet you.” That’ll never not sound off coming from his lips.

“Hiyaa! I’m Kotoko Utsugi. Ah, call me Kotoko please.” An introduction punctuated by a jump off the bed. She makes her way over to him (or the meal).

Small hands grip the edges of the cart. He’s like an interesting new toy in front of that curious gaze. “…What’s your story?”

“Story?”

“How’d Akio pick you up? Drugs? Killings? Orphan?”

“Wha?” were the words coming out of this little girl’s mouth?

“Don’t freak him out. He’s just a part-timer with no prior affiliation to us.”

“Oh. What organization’s he from?” She uses words he’d expect too advanced for her age.

“He’s ordinary. Like the ones you see on tv.”

Isn’t it the other way around?

 Naegi was ordinary because he’s not like the celebrities on tv. “I’m just a high-school student.” If you could call anyone attending HPA such.

“An…ordinary student?” Kotoko tilts her head. “…what’s a kid like you doing in a place like this?”

“That’s my line. You’re the odd one here.”

“I-I’m not weird. I’m super adorable, take that back!”

“Yeah well, I’m normal too.” Naegi mutters.

“If you’ve got a normal life. What could you want?”

“It’s a long story.” One he’s made to explain regardless. By the end of the tale involving him and a white-haired menace, Kotoko’s busting a gut.

“That freak pranked you good!” She laughs, having paid a keen interest from the mention of Komaeda’s name in his story.

“Do you know Nagito too?” Naegi was rightfully starting to think he knew the least of the boy in the whole city.

“He’s like my big brother. Everyone here’s like my older sibling. Nagito’s just the weirdest.”

Naegi sighed dejectedly. “He probably means well, y’know?” He tried to defend the older luckster.

“Maybe. He kept to himself, to minimalize the collateral damage.” Hijirihara answers…from underneath Kotoko’s bed. His head’s the only thing peeking out.

What the hell?

Naegi shakes his head. Get it together man. This is far from the strangest thing you’ve seen today. “Collateral damage?”

“I hear you didn’t know him long, but Nagito brings bad luck wherever he goes. It’s dangerous for us. But Akio knew that and still ‘adopted’ him. Never sent him away either. That guy, instinctually avoids people and tries to push them away.”

“S’that true?” Kotoko wonders. Totally unperturbed by the older man’s position.

“You don’t know?” Naegi asked the girl.

“Nope. But that’s not cause I’m dumb or anything. Takumi’s just the second weirdest.” What did that have to do with anything?

“Don’t bully me. I’ve done nothing wrong lately and that was just an observation” Hijirihara remarks.

“That’s what I meant.” Kotoko rolls her eyes. She twirls her finger over to the brunet. “Hey look. This guy sleeps a lot and seems totes useless, but he’s always watching people and pays attention to the weirdest stuff. And keeps it all to himself. It’s gross.”

“I see.” Naegi presses a finger to his chin. Nope he can’t see anything off about that at all. Kirigiri does something similar all the time.

“I kind of do miss big bro Nagito. He’s the only one who let me draw on him.” Kotoko groans. She gives him a pleading look. “Hey, Nagi. Would you- “

“Don’t. I need him for today.” Hijirihara saves him from an unlikely fate.

“For what?” Naegi asked.

“You’re coming out with me. To see me work.”

“So, you do work here?”

“Try not to cry, big bro Nagi!”

If someone were to compare the Mirai district at night to a commercial area like Shinjuku, Naegi’d believe it. Even after all this time, he couldn’t get used to vibrance. His eyes move every which way. Nevertheless, he keeps pace with Hijirihara, as to not lose the black-clad man in the bustling crowd.

“Hijirihara- “

“Not all of us are as standoffish as Maki. Just call me Takumi.” Oh great. Maybe there was a chance he’d have a civil conversation without the other party looking like they wanna claw out his throat. “You were going to ask about Kotoko.”

“How’d you know?”

“It’d be odd if you didn’t. I don’t know what you think about Fantasia, but we’re not holding her hostage. She’s just an unfortunate girl Akio picked up years ago. We’ve treated her as the littlest of the family ever since.”

“When you say family…”

“Exactly what I mean. All of us who work in Fantasia are a dysfunctional bunch with nowhere else to go. Akio gave us a home and so we’re like a big old orphanage. Tengan aside, we’re all fairly young, you know?”

“Yeah…I noticed.” He hadn’t expected those circumstances though. Akio and Shirogane confessed they were criminals but…he hadn’t seen anything like that. Everyone was mostly normal.

“There’s our stop.”  The red eyed man points to an olden, 3 story building that contrasts that urban city around it.  By the construction material, it looked several decades old. If Makoto put it to words…the building gave off a homely, mystical allure. Frozen in time, so to speak.

“Historie.” He read the sign. As they approached, loud yells became audible, even though closed doors.

“It’s noisy.”

“That is strange…considering it’s a library.” Hijirihara twisted the doorknob. An old-fashioned bell rang. Ordinarily, Naegi supposed a clerk would greet them. Perhaps it was the old man at the desk. If it were, it’d be understandable why his hospitality was lacking when two delinquents were practically screaming in his face.

“Good evening.”

…To Naegi’s surprise, the elder did exactly that.

‘Uh…he’s pretty composed.’ His gaze drifts to the tables in the distance. Book readers were similarly unbothered by the commotion and didn’t look like they’d interfere. A few glances turned towards them and stayed poised on the two.

“Mr. Alfred. Is there a problem?” The Fantasia executive addressed the old man as calmly as they’d been received.

“These gentlemen are looking for information on a certain serial killer. Unfortunately, I’m not equipped to answer their inquiries.” ‘Alfred as he’d been called, had slicked back hair with his moustache equally as clean as it was gray. He wore a black suit, gloved hands and thin rectangular glasses

‘He’s fluent in Japanese. He must have been here a long time to get that good.’ Naegi ruminated on the foreigner’s speech. That wasn’t an uncommon sight, and a reason why Nevermind had blended in so easily.

 “Oh? Now that is an interesting topic.” For the first time, Naegi observed a twitch of a smile on Hijirihara’s face.

The delinquents were clothed in white garb, from the baggy pants to the coats. They’d forgone simple shirts, instead showing off the bandages on their toned bodies.

“This is ain’t none of your business, pal. Scram.” One of the men threw them a displeased look.

Hijirihara held up 3 fingers. Each falling with every completed sentence. “First. I’m a customer and you’re holding up the line. Second, Mr. Alfred is an important man, and so his safety is my concern. Last…he is our client and very much the family’s business.”

“You’re one of those mobsters.”

“And you’re one of those biker punks, right? I’ve heard you’ve been disturbing the peace around here. That’s another thing that’s my business.”

Biker gang? Oh, that’s where he recognized them from. They dressed like Owada-kun.

“Hard at work as ever, Takumi.” Alfred said.

“No breaks for me.”

“…But you’re always sleeping?” Naegi asked lowly.

 “Don’t ignore us.” A gruff voice said.

“If the old guy doesn’t know anything, then what about you? Heard anything about Genocide Jack?”

“Who hasn’t. He’s all the rage. I’d like to meet them myself.” This time, Naegi was sure he saw it. Hijirihara’s eyes coming to life. “Though I can guess at why you’re looking for them. The Yukimaru brother, correct?”

“Tch. You know your stuff.”

“If you wanted help around this area…why not go ask the Yukimaru family?”

“We’re the ones asking the questions here.”

“Information isn’t free. What’ll you be offering me in turn?”

“Keeping your front teeth.”

The raven-haired man sighed loudly, then turned to the owner. “Mr. Alfred...”

Alfred cast him a cold look. “I would prefer you took it outside but make it quick…and clean.”

“That’s my job.”

Hijirihara must have had a very different definition of clean than Naegi did.

One of the bikers was launched into a glass case.

 An aged brown table had its lifespan cut when Hijirihara slammed a body down the middle, breaking the wood in half.

…It was quick, at least.

 “I’m a peaceful man. When the area’s quiet, that means my boss won’t get on my case. That means I get to rest more. Do you see where I’m going with this?” Hijirihara remarked and received a ball of spit to his cheek for his trouble.

Another sigh. “Guess not. You kids live dangerously.” A sign of said danger appeared when the executive threw his victim onto the floor, then latched onto his arm.

An ominous feeling welled up in the pit of Naegi’s stomach. The abruptness of the situation spiralling out of the peaceful evening he’d grown accustomed to, finally caught up to the boy. He envisioned that arm getting twisted and broken.

I have to…

>1. Help them

2. Stay out of it

The biker screamed as he felt bone wrench. The pain lasted only a short while before Hijirihara stopped. On account of both Naegi’s arms latching onto his.

“…What is it?” Hijirihara asked.

Naegi’s breath hitched at the deadened stare he received. “Um…You got the point across…we should let them go.”

“I’ve barely done anything. Nothing that can’t be repaired in time. Permanence is a good teacher.”

“…Could you explain?” Naegi withstood being framed as brick-like dense in exchange for perfect clarity.

“My job is to preserve the peace. I’m The Janitor.” Naegi got the feeling that was a whole lot different from what Uozumi did. “I clean people, groups, circumstances…and I am a veteran. You understand that, right.”

 “I don’t. I don’t ever want to understand something like that.” Naegi’s grip tightened. Not that it would have made a difference, save to transmit his determination to the other man. “These guys…are the crazy diamonds, right?”

“I assume so.”

“Then…they’re important to someone I know. And if his friends are hurt, he’s not going to stand by and let it slide. You’ll be in a world of trouble.”

Up until that point, Naegi had a feeling Hijirihara had only seen him as a stray or a chore. Now he gave the smaller boy his undivided attention “Is that a threat?” He said with a pointed look.

“… There’ll be a lot less problems if we settle things peacefully. And besides…haven’t we already done enough damage here? Libraries are supposed to be quiet.”

Hijirihara’s brow lifts somewhat as he ponders the argument.

“He not wrong." A booming voice and the bells draw their attention to the door. A man of short stature and wide eyes looks over the scene.

“Ryoma…”

Chapter Text

Naegi sat in front of in the library’s round table. The other sides occupied by his senior co-workers, Takumi Hijirihara and Ryoma Hoshi. The other guests comported themselves as if there weren’t chairs and bodies flying minutes before.

 Fortunately, Hoshi’s intervention let the bikers get away.

“I was hanging around the area and decided to keep an eye on you two. Sounds like it was a good choice.”  Hoshi said.

“S-Sorry, I shouldn’t have started an argument.” Naegi bowed his head.

“Nobody ought to apologize for taking a stand. So long as they’re prepared to take responsibility for what comes next. Are you?” Hoshi inquired.

He couldn’t quite clue in on the man’s suggestive tone. “I’m not sure, but I just couldn’t stand by and watch.” The bikers weren’t his friends, but they were probably Owada’s. That has to mean something.

“You’re gonna have problems if you can’t stomach violence like that.”

“Are you trying to scare him off, Mr. Hoshi?” The owner of the establishment approached their table with a stack of newspapers at Hoshi’s request.

 “Our apologies for the mess, Alfred. We’ll compensate you later.” Hijirihara said. “By the way, this busybody is ‘Motoko Nagi’, one of our new recruits.”

Alfred’s aged gaze landed on the brunet. “I imagine so. You’re everything Akio told me you would be. A virtuous lad with a strong sense of justice.”

“T-That’s way too much for me- Akio said that?”

“Not in those words, but when you’ve known someone for over 20 years, you learn to filter out the excess in their speech.”

“He must have been an even bigger jerk as a child.”

Alfred’s face relaxed. “I first met him when I disembarked. He should have been around your age at the time.”

Makoto counted down his fingers, his brows creased furiously. “He’s almost 40 and still acts like that!?”

Even Hoshi cracked a smile.

Minutes passed after Alfred made his exit, leaving Naegi twiddling his thumbs uncomfortably as his seniors were off in their own worlds.

“Say Naegi. Hoshi finally asked, flipping through the newspaper. “We haven’t spoken since you arrived. Is that intentional?”

The brunet waved his hands placatively. “I haven’t been avoiding anyone. It’s just… Akio-san treats me like a pack mule. I’m too overworked to focus anyone else.”

“Ah, sounds about right. He’s keeping you away from us…until now.” Hijirihara said.

 “Really? If anything, I thought I was the one looked at as a nuisance.” He rubbed the back of his head.

“That might be true in some cases, not mine.” The shorter man looked him in the eye. “I see. So you’ve never heard of me then.”

“Can’t say I have.”

“If you had, you’d absolutely go out of your way to keep distance” Hoshi slid the magazine over to him. Naegi’s head fell, scanning the front page. The headlines finally jogged his memory. “I remember this, I think.” He’d never been one for gossip, evidenced by how little he cared for the rumors surrounding Syo. Similarly, he’d never found out the name of the man who’d single-handedly murdered a small crime family.

Sure enough, the name was in bold.

“Is this true?” Naegi asked the perpetrator himself.

“Alfred’s got a reputation to uphold and newspapers with false reports aren’t up to his standards.” Ryoma continued. “Everything in print, is the absolute truth.”

Naegi felt fear creep back in. Just when he felt accustomed – never safe – to his environment, he’s reminded of the sleeping lions surrounding him. With an irritating man holding the key to the locked cage.

Naegi’s lightheaded sensations were cut through by Hijirihara’s cold, unfiltered words.

“That mafia murdered everyone Ryoma loved.”

Naegi felt like he’d been doused by a cold rush of water.

“You bastard. What do you think you’re saying?” Hoshi tipped his hat menacingly.

Hijirihara shot him a look that said he could have spoken the same words. “I’ll repeat what Alfred said: don’t scare him off.”

“As annoyed as you were before I got here, I thought you’d approve.”

“That would go against Akio’s wishes. Is that what you want?”

“A kid like this has no place being around villains like us. Isn’t that right. Naegi?”

Suddenly, they drew him back into the conversation instead of talking over him.

“This is all hard to believe.”

“Well believe it. I’m a murderer and an ex-convict. And I’ll tell it straight. I never served my time. No matter how friendly Fantasia might look in the day, we’re all black on the inside. If you stick around, you’ll see it on the surface, sooner or later.”

He knew that, of course. Though the evidence present was slim, and the fact that even children like Kotoko hung around made Naegi think they weren’t all so bad.

“Why did you let the crazy diamonds get away?” Naegi asked

“What’s that got to do with this?”

“Ryoma has a ‘no-kill’ policy. As long as he’s around, I can’t do my job.” Hijiriara asked.

A no-killing policy for a convicted murderer? “Hoshi. Did you really lose your loved ones?”

“That’s personal – is probably the most unreasonable thing I could say at this point, but I’m sticking by it.” Hoshi didn’t meet his eyes.

“I can’t judge you without knowing the circumstances, I can’t see you committing a massacre without a good reason.”

“You say that like you know me.” He replied. He wasn’t wrong either, Many (often Kirigiri) warned him of his easily given trust. But if he prematurely dismissed others because of their status, he’d have a few less friends.

“I don’t really, but you’re still the most considerate person in the store. Come to think of it, you voted against my application for my sake too. Nobody else has looked after me that way.”

A pin could have dropped with how quiet it got.

“Doesn’t that depress you even a little?” Hoshi offered a pitying glance.

“What can I do when I’m being blackmailed?”

Hoshi and Hijirihara both gave him confused looks. “…Blackmail? That’s not like him. But if that’s the case, he’d definitely live up to his word.” Hoshi said.

Guess he’s stuck a little while longer.

“After all you’ve seen and heard, you’re this relaxed? You’re quick to adapt or a huge idiot.” A faint smile graced Hoshi’s lips. “I don’t necessarily dislike either. However, whether you’re coerced or doing this of your own volition, that doesn’t absolve you of responsibility.”

Their stay in the library didn’t last the hour. Despite the time flying well past dorm curfew, Naegi’s night wasn’t over yet. Despite meek protests, he accompanied the older men to Minami’s Ramen, a diner in the middle of town “What are we doing here?”

“Dinner’s on me so order whatever you like.” Hoshi said.

Naegi skims the menu, his gaze lured to the price ranges. ‘It all looked so expensive.’ He figured it’d be rude saying that out loud with the waiter on standby.

“I recommend the beef plate special…. Hoshi got it for me when I started out. I’ve been coming here since.” Hijirihara advised.

“I’ll have it.” Naegi told the waiter, who graciously took their orders to the kitchen.

Afterwards, the atmosphere quieted down. Naegi noticed on the walk over that his two companions weren’t outspoken. Only replying on his behalf or feeding him information about the area. Even now, the silence was awkward, but he might’ve been the only one who felt that way. Hoshi and Hijirihara looked perfectly at ease.

The quiet didn’t last long, regardless.

“This a private party, or can we crash?”

Naegi looked up to the familiar voice. “Amami-kun?” Naegi blinks. Trailing after the green-haired boy were two other acquaintances he’d gotten to know over the previous weeks. Harukawa and Nevermind.

“A woman on both sides. Nice, kid.” Hoshi whistled.

Amami and Harukawa were one thing but, “Nevermind-san. What are you doing here?”

“Still calling by my surname.” The princess sighs, fully understanding that was a losing battle.

Amami answered his inquiry in her stead. “Hijirihara invited me on a text. Harukawa wanted to come with.” He points at the blonde. “We found Sonia on my way over. Being me, I couldn’t leave a lady alone in these streets, no matter how daring she is.”

“If I cared to have a knight patrolling, I would have stayed home.”

“There’s nothing stopping you leaving now, is there?” Harukawa said bluntly. Naegi repressed a shudder at their stares.

On the other hand, he wasn’t sure if Amami – smack in the middle – missed the animosity or just didn’t care, “There you have it. Won’t mind if she tags along, do you?”

“The more the merrier. I already ordered for you.” Hoshi said. The boys moved over for the new arrivals to sit down. Harukawa moved in with Hoshi and Hijirihara, while Amami and Nevermind slid in besides him.

“The first work dinner is always a night to remember. It’s the time when you get to see what your coworkers are really like.” Amami smirked deviously. “Then again, I see Naegi most of the day.”

“You two relatives?” Hoshi asked.

“Ahaha, while I wouldn’t mind Naegi as a little brother, I’m a pretty terrible sibling. The truth is we’ve only been roommates for few weeks.”

“Plenty of time to form strong bonds.”

“I don’t think we’re that close. We haven’t talked about personal lives that much.” Naegi said.

“Then how about it? Let’s use tonight as a chance to get to know each other.” Hoshi proposed.

“Good idea.” Amami nodded vehemently.

“It’s where you were heading, wasn’t it?” Harukawa casts Amami a look of disapproval and suspicion.

Which Amami, of course, took in stride. “Guilty as charged. Anyone mind if I take the lead?” No objections here. “To start, I grew up in what you’d call a ‘young master’ life. My folks are filthy rich so to speak. Although they’d probably need it with 13 kids.”

When Naegi’d heard that tidbit, he’d nearly flipped. By comparison, the others’ reactions were subdued. Strangely so.

“Your childhood must be filled with wonderful memories.” Sonia beamed.

Harukawa toiled with her hair. She didn’t look as uncomfortable between Hoshi and Hijirihara as Naegi expected. "If he’s one of the older siblings, it’s not nearly as fun as you’re imagining.”

“Oh? Would you happen to be an older sister?”

“Of sorts.”

“I’ll take it.” Amami interjected. “Harukawa’s right. I was the oldest and had all younger sisters. Must’ve been something wrong with my shitty old man.”

“Not your mother?” Hijirihara asked.

“They’re all half-sisters.”

His answer was met by a chorus of ‘oh’ and ‘ahs’

“There’s all kinds out there.” Hoshi said.

“Would this explain your success with our customers. Particularly the female variety?” Hijirihara questioned.

Amami laughed heartily “Partly. I’d attribute most of my charm to experience. You gain a lot when your hobby’s traveling abroad.”

“Where’ve you been?”

Naegi stole glances at his red-eyed senior. His inquiries reminded him of the way Kirigiri poked for information. Mechanically, methodically, and with a hint of childlike curiosity buried 100 feet deep.

“Where haven’t I been? France, Russia, America, you name it. My most recent exploits were in Tibet, but uh, don’t ask for the details on that.”

“Takumi, you’ve been there too last I checked.” Hoshi passed the baton onto Hijirihara.

“Yeah. Before and after Akio ‘adopted’ me, I used to travel all the time too.”

“Wouldn’t happen to share my enthusiasm for adventure, would you?” Amami asked.

“Regrettably?  No. Traveling was just a means to meet certain people. If they’d all stayed in Japan, I’d never leave.” Hijirihara drank from the glass of water, not minding shattering the avocado’s blooming hopes.

Still, Amami wasn’t deterred. “What sorts of people?”

“The nefarious kind.” Hijirihara dropped his empty glass firmly on the table “I’m drawn to them and my impulses were hard to contain. I’ve settled down now.”

Amami hums. “Just for that, huh? You must have been on quite the payroll.”

Naegi finds it surreal how the boy skipped out on that very ominous start. What did Hijirihara mean by ‘nefarious and impulses’?

“There’s plenty ways to make money off-the-table, if you look hard enough. If you’re as experienced as you say, you’d know more about that than I do.”

“Again. Guilty as charged.”

“I know what you were trying to ask though. I don’t come from a wealthy family. I was an orphan. As long as I can remember, I was doing whatever I pleased, however I could. Things I probably can’t say in front of you kids.”

“I wouldn’t be certain of that.” Nevermind inserted herself in what had been an intense two-way conversation up until now. “We may be wise beyond our years.” She challenged the older man.

 “I’ve heard you’re some kinda princess. Is that true?”

“Yes, of Novoselic.”

“Ah.” Hijirihara clapped his sands. “You’re…Sara, no. Sonia.”

The blonde tilted her head. “Do you know of me?”

“I’ve seen you in person before, in Novoselic, though you likely didn’t see me. You were out in the streets for a parade.”

Nevermind gasped. “Oh my, I haven’t done that since I was a little girl. Forgive me for noticing you.”

Hijirihara waved his hands dismissively. “Doubt you could have done anything with all those bodyguards in the way. If I recall, they weren’t much help during the kidnapping either.”

“You refer to that occasion then.”

“Kidnapping?” Naegi blurted out, turning his head to face his upperclassman.

Nevermind gripped her skirt. “These things happen, do not fret.” Nevermind offers him a disarming smile. “Ever since that embarrassment, I’ve learned to better prepare myself. Rebels know better now.”

Naegi laughed nervously. She could be a little scary.

“Heh. We’ve got another tough lady. Watch out, Maki.” Hoshi joked.

The mention of the recluse’s name restored Amami’s mood. “Now here’s someone I’ve been itching to get to.”

Harukawa’s face gave a new, literal meaning to the phrase ‘if looks could kill’ “You’ll have to keep waiting. I have nothing to say to you three.”

Naegi winced impulsively. He knew Harukawa wasn’t fond of any of them, but to put it so harshly…

“Maki is from the same orphanage I am.” Hijirihara. Suddenly. Said.

The assassin’s face darkened. “What do you think you’re blabbing about?” Her voice was cold as ice.

“I didn’t know I was under your orders.” Hijirihara was unfettered by the tension in the atmosphere.

Harukawa apparently didn’t have the same patience. She stands abruptly, but before she can take a step “Running away from these kids?” Hijirihara’s words paralyze her.

“I shouldn’t have come.”

“Wait, Harukawa. When you said you were an older sibling of sorts…did that mean you were a caretaker for the other children?” Amami asked.

The girl-in-question shot him a surprised look. “How did you know?”

“I’m pretty good at the dots. By the way, you don’t have to leave or anything, we’ll just pass you up. If you left while we were still on the topic, we’d just start making assumptions about you.” That almost sounded like a threat to the luckster.

“If only because I’d be missing dinner...” Harukawa returned to her seat. “Like Amami said, that was pretty much my childhood. Looking after the little ones. For some reason, they were attached to me.”

“Must be cuz you’re cute.”

“Do you want to die?”

“Surprising. I thought it’d be a while before you used that on them, Maki.” Hoshi arched an eyebrow.

“That catchphrase? I’ve seen it used on the customers a lot.” Naegi said.

“It’s not a catchphrase! I’m just surrounded by morons day in and day out.” A nigh-imperceptible pink tinge spread across Harukawa’s face.  

“Mind if I take my turn now?” Hoshi raised his hand.

“Seriously?” Harukawa asked.

“If you’re sharing, I don’t have a reason not to.” He faces the trio of newcomers. “The name’s Ryoma Hoshi. I-”

He was cut off by the princess’ loud gasp gasped loudly. “I knew it! I know all about your exploits as a tennis player and the tragedy in America!”

Hoshi was slightly taken aback the stars in Nevermind’s eye. “You make it sound like I’m an actor, but if you know so much, there’s nothing else for me to say.”

“I’ve heard a few things on the grapevines about your dealings with organized crime, but not so much the tennis side of things.”

“I’ve given up on tennis. It’s practically another life for me at this point.” Hoshi looked away.

“Hmm, so tell us about that life.” Amami reeled Hoshi in. “Did you enjoy it back then? Any noteworthy rivals?”

“Yes. To both. I wouldn’t waste time with something I didn’t appreciate doing. I’d also like to say I crushed the competition…but that would be lying. I had more than a few rivals, even on the team…One of my regrets is that I never managed to beat our captain.” He retraces his failures with a fondness that Naegi’s not sure Hoshi himself realized.

“Sounds like a waste. You could go pro.” Amami said.

“Nobody would sponsor a killer.”

“I don’t know about that. Didn’t you get a letter from Hope’s Peak Academy?” Harukawa asked.

“What?” “Huh?” “Pardon me?” – came from the trio of Naegi, Amami and Nevermind.

“Forgot about that. Yeah, that big wig school wanted to admit me as the SHSL Tennis Player. I’ve got no intention of accepting though.”

“Have you thought about it some more? We’d be in the same class, you know?” Amami pressed.

“Why’s that a positive again?” Hoshi smirked.

“That would make the two of you my underclassmen.” Nevermind said.

“Mine too. Wow that’s weird.” But then again, Hagakure’s in his 20s…Talk about a colorful casting. Naegi didn’t know what Amami’s intentions were, but what little he learned of everyone emphasized how out of place he was. He didn’t have an elaborate childhood, never left the country. Heck, he wasn’t even a real ultimate.

“You’ve been quiet.” Amami nudged him on the shoulder. “It’s your turn~”

“I’ve got nothing to add here at all. What you see is what you get.”

“Hmmm. What are your likes?”

“Whatever’s popular.”

“Dislikes?”

“Nothing in particular.”

“As expected.” Amami said slyly. “You’re a different kind of bothersome from Harukawa.”

“I hope you don’t think I’m going to let you off with just that.” Harukawa for some reason, was angry at him. Which was business as usual.

“I’m not hiding anything. Honestly, there’s nothing special about me at all.” He wanted to be anywhere but in front of the twin-tailed girl’s glare.

“You’ve got manga in your room, right?” Amami began.

“Yeah, it’s one of the ways I spend my time.” Where was he going with this?

“Those things are so immature.” Harukawa huffed.

“Your opinions aside, it is improper to chastise another’s interests.” Nevermind reprimanded.

“Guess we don’t have to think about which of you girls is the mature one.” Hoshi added. “Manga’s fine. Guys need their down time too.”

“It’s not like that’s all you read right? I recall you knowing some of Fukawa’s books and she’s on the total opposite of the spectrum on the literature scale.” Amami said. Naegi was surprised he remembered all that.

“Toko Fukawa?” Hoshi spoke up.

“That’s the one. You know her?”

“There’s not much to do in prison. A good book can get you through the times, and I couldn’t find any better than hers.” It shouldn’t have been a shock for Fukawa to have fans but…wow, he didn’t expect that from the ex-tennis player. “From romance to the grit, that woman knows her stuff. Take it from me.”

“Fukawa-san would love to hear that.” Even if she’d disguise it under a hail of insults and doubt. “She’s in my class at Hope’s Peak, if you didn’t know..”

“Really? That admission isn’t looking quite so bad now.”

“All you need is a few details to tell an interesting story.” Amami patted Naegi on the back. “You can’t put yourself down like that. It’s seriously unflattering.”

“I wasn’t trying to be. All I’ve really got going for me is my optimism.”

“You’re doing it again. Specify a bit more, and you’ll see ‘open-minded’ sounds better. I mean you gotta be for accepting a shady guy like me as a roommate with no questions asked.”

“I’m lucky to have you. After Komaeda, I think I’d prefer having someone crash with me.”

“You roomed with Nagito?” Hijirihara swayed his head. “Wait, you were fine?”

Naegi nodded.

“There’s open-mindedness and plain being a daredevil, kid.” Hoshi looked at him strangely

“This again. I never met this Komaeda guy but he seems to be on everyone’s bad side. Could one guy have a personality that rotten?” Amami raked his fingers through green strands.

“There’s that, but I’m talking physical. Even being close to Nagito is asking for trouble.” Hoshi said.

“He was with me for about a week, I didn’t see anything out of the ordinary.” Naegi replied.

“I’ve known Komaeda for over a year.” Nevermind explained he was a classmate. “A day didn’t pass where incredible things failed to occur near him.”

“Putting it mildly. Some of us have almost died because of him.” Harukawa glowered. The white-haired luckster was ever the sore topic.

“Sounds like a real character. Maybe you never saw anything cuz you’re luckier than he is.” Amami posed an unlikely possibility.

“Luck?” Hijirihara asked.

“The academy scouted me as the SHSL Good Luck.”

“Small world.” “You’re lucky?”

“It’s hard to explain.” He recalls his first meeting with Shinguji.” But yeah, I am lucky.

It just takes a while for it to show.”

It was then that the waiter returned, pushing a cart in front. “Dinner is served.”

Naegi’s stomach thanked the staff. His mouth was too busy watering at the plate of sizzling meat. The conversation shifted to more culinary topics, with several appetites sated and more.

Naegi would have rated the restaurant a full 5 stars. Not that his opinion would have been worth all that much compared to the chef at school, or some of his less pedestrian classmates. Togami would probably give it an average score, having gone to some of the finest establishments in the country. It was a difference of experience.

The overdressed man on the other table, clad in mummy-like wrappings would have agreed. Korekiyo Shinguji was eating, contemplating, and eavesdropping attentively.