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Chapter Text

When Yukizome-sensei told the class their PE teacher got sick, the homeroom teacher made everyone promise her not to judge the substitute teacher. The Ultimate Gamer knew the substitute wouldn't be an Alumni or a well-known professor. The school forum would be updated if so.  How odd.

'A newbie?' Chiaki theorized, closing her phone app to check the time. 'Few more minutes before the new substitute teacher enters their room. I hope they're lenient..?'

*creak*

"Ah. Hinata-san," Their history teacher greeted, and Chiaki stared at the familiar ahoge, and green eyes popped into view. *thunk* She might have dropped her phone, surprised to see a Reserve Course student enter the room. "Where did you get your injuries?"

"I tripped," Hinata Hajime lied. Chiaki knew there were instances the brunette got picked on by the guards or students. It was because of trivial matters.  Chiaki didn't understand why they were so mean to Hajime.  To see her friend beaten in the day was disheartening. "Thank you for staying with the class. I will take it from here."

"If you need any help, do call Yukizome-sensei." Their teacher told her friend. Hajime is probably doing this because the Principal asked or maybe to pay back his tuition fee? The gamer glanced around the room. Now, she has to ensure everyone plays nice.  This will be the first time Hajime will be meeting her friends, after all.

"I will," Hajime watched the teacher leave, turning back to stare at the 16 students.

*clunk*

"..." As soon as the door closed, Hajime held the clipboard their gym teacher once held. "Your teacher gave each of you tasks to accomplish. After you fulfill whatever is on the paper, you can have an early lunch."

"YES! Chill prof!" Akane fist-pumped, the first one to speak after the tense atmosphere. Chiaki knew her classmates weren't expecting a reserve student as their substitute teacher. Reserve students weren't the best people to be with when you were an Ultimate.  They either hate you or adore you.

"Wait. Seriously?" Fuyuhiko frowned. The blonde was always mad at something or someone in the morning. Chiaki squinted at the Ultimate Gangster yelling at her best friend. "Aren't you one of my sister's classmates?"

"Unfortunately, I'm your sister's seatmate." Hajime distributed the tasks to the people on the front row.

"How is that  unfortunate ?" Fuyuhiko was close to getting hit by a phone if Mahiru didn't interrupt the conversation.

"Cool down, Kuzuryu. We all know your sister tends to pick fights every time we let her hang out with us," The Ultimate Photographer chided the male.

"I'm sorry, but I recall Sato being the primary cause for a group detention last Friday." Peko disclosed. Chiaki was curious why so many of her classmates couldn't attend that game night.  The detention included homework.

"Sato-chan didn't mean it," Mahiru defended. Chiaki noticed Hajime looking up, so she did the same. She was surprised to see art drawn all over the ceiling. It must be Izuru.  Who else would paint this well?

"Maybe we shouldn't let reserve students join us in the first place..." Hiyoko mumbled under her breath. Chiaki looked back down at the dancer. The Ultimate Dancer got a call from her grandmother because of the incident.  None of the parents were pleased to hear what happened.

"Whew~ I thought for sure we were goners!" Ibuki's peppy voice made Chiaki switch focus. The Ultimate Musician might be amiable to befriend Hajime. "Are the tasks hard, Hinata-chan?"

"Nope. Nidai's training regime makes this look like a walk on the park." Hajime returned to the teacher's table, taking a seat. The brunette looked tired with life-

'Where did he get that orange juice carton drink box?!' Chiaki rubbed her eyes. 'Her friend only brought nothing but a clipboard with the answer sheets, right?'

"Agreed. These are basic!" Nekomaru slammed his hand on his desk, staring at the paper. Chiaki received her sheet from Ryota, reading the list.  Five laps, five squats, five jumping jacks, five...  Their PE teacher made it easy for Hajime's sake. "I advise we all go into pairs to finish the tasks faster!"

"You could," Hajime placed the straw in his mouth, sipping his elixir.  Chiaki knew her friend grew fond of the drink after months in the Reserve Course Dormitory.

"Can we be partners, Son-" Kazuichi was about to ask his seatmate when Sonia turned to face Gundham.

"Do you wish to be partners with me, Tanaka-san?" Sonia offered. Chiaki watched the mechanic slowly drop his paper.

"You dare ask an alliance to someone as accursed as I? HA! I accept your offer. Let us determine the extent of your power, dark queen." Gundham accepted the offer, and Chiaki watched Kazuichi droop his head. Chiaki and Hajime stared at the man, thinking the same thing:  Poor guy.

"..." Kazuichi slumped on his chair.  He's going to be sad for quite some time.

"Any questions before I send you off?" Hajime asked, holding the (empty) carton.

"A-are you okay?" Mikan inquired. Hajime stared at her. "May I treat you?"

'Tsumiki-san is itching to help Hinata-kun.' Chiaki noticed the Ultimate Nurse fidgeting in her seat. Mikan is holding her medkit, staring intently at her not-really patient. They did promise Yukizome-sensei not to scare him off. Mikan is capable of pinning Nekomaru down because of a cut on the manager's ankle. 'That's not going to look good with Hinata-kun. He has issues with hospitals.'

"No, thank you," As predicted, Hajime refused the offer. Chiaki will tell him to run when she sees Mikan in a predatory pose. Chiaki knows Mikan isn't the type to ignore a patient. "Anyone else?"

"Not like I'm questioning Principal Kirigiri-san's decisions, but why you of all people?" Nagito asked. He is inches from getting a phone thrown at him. Nagito kept going. "You're just a reserve student. Why would someone as talentless as you be allowed to teach the symbols of hope? Do enlighten us."

"Komaeda-kun! Don't scare the hottie!" Teruteru hissed, and Chiaki now glared at the Ultimate Cook.  Maybe this guy deserves a phone on the head?  Teruteru waved his hand. "Ahahaha. Don't mind him! We're happy to have you, Hinata-kun."

"I'm also curious why the school chose a student as a substitute teacher," Ryota also spoke up, looking away from the paper. "Our class is known to be the most chaotic among the sections. Did Yukizome-sensei recommend you?"

"Do you know him, Nanami?" Izuru's voice caught her off-guard.

"Y-yeah..." Chiaki replied in turn, turning to her left. Izuru was the newest transfer student in their section. Chiaki's glad they managed to convince Izuru to attend classes every day. "Hinata-kun is a friend of mine. He's nice."

"Hn." Izuru nodded, looking back outside the window.  Chiaki has a feeling the Ultimate Hope will be wandering around the school again.  Chiaki wasn't sure what to do about it.

"No, Yukizome didn't recommend me," Hajime admitted, and Chiaki returned to looking at her friend. The carton box is gone.  Where did it go?  Hajime placed his arms on the table, staring at the class. "As you all recall last semester, your teacher and dozen other authorities managed to alert the government of the unethical experimentation performed by Hope's Peak Academy. While I will admit the response was late due to procedural matters, the government mitigated the PARADE by mediating the two parties."

"Eh?" Chiaki did not expect that influx of information. She remembered Yukizome-sensei being gone for some days due to personal matters, but she didn't think their teacher would be working with the government.

"Despite the school agreeing to halt all operations in its underground research facility, the government could no longer give the administration the autonomy it deserved. This distrust led to the government assigning several of its agents to monitor the situation." Hajime glanced back down at the teacher's desk. He must have noticed the class schedule placed by Yukizome. "The new assignment led to the government disclosing the identity of its agents to the Principal  for some reason ."

'Hinata-kun is a working student?' Chiaki didn't see that coming. She did, but she didn't think it had something to do with the government. 'No wonder Hinata-kun accompanied me in getting a visa, or why dad seems friendly with him...'

"Now that you know I work under the government, I'm expecting you all to cooperate on the tasks assigned." Hajime finally ended the recap. "Hinata Hajime, your resident miracle worker."

Chapter Text

Soda Kazuichi didn't expect the substitute teacher to be a reserve course student. He also didn't expect said brunette to tell their class what the admin refused to disclose to its students.

For the Parade to end, government intervention was needed before things went south. Kazuichi wondered what would happen if the government didn't intervene? Probably something bad. Maybe Izuru knows about it? The Ultimate Hope transferred to their section only this year.  What if Izuru is a product of the so-called Human Experimentation? That would explain why Izuru's good at everything.

"I like Harvey. He's a chill guy." Akane told Mahiru as the class waited for Lunch to end. Their first day with the substitute teacher was pretty chill. Kazuichi found himself trusting the guy because Hajime gave everything they needed to know.

Hinata Hajime works under the government, currently posing as a student to monitor the school to stop doing unethical crap.

The brunette likes orange juice but dislikes doctors/nurses. They also know Hajime is Chiaki's friend by the fountain. That means Hajime is the guy who can devour an entire bag of kusamochi in under a minute. Also, he's the rumored boyfriend material who will spend hours finding Chiaki to bring her back to the dorm. Yeah... Chiaki tends to sleep at random times of the day, and her emergency number is literally Hajime's number. Their class representative doesn't maintain a healthy sleeping schedule because of the school's endless supply of games.

"You mean Hajime?" Mahiru corrected. After the short introduction, Hajime stayed in the classroom while Chiaki convinced everyone to head towards the gym. Everyone could see how protective Chiaki was over the guy, refusing to let anyone talk to Hajime, who proceeded to sleep on the chair. The Ultimate Gamer was also the one who collected the answer sheets, outrunning Mikan to wake Hajime up. Before meeting the guy, the class frequently shipped Chiaki with the mystery guy. Now that they know the guy, the class isn't sure what to say.

"Natsumi calls him the mom friend of their section..." Fuyuhiko hesitantly gave the information he and Peko obtained. Kazuichi covered his mouth, trying not to laugh. Of course, Hajime already showed all the signs back when they didn't know him. Hell! Chiaki always calls Hajime to convince her parents to let her go on the field trips. Hajime also takes note of Chiaki's monthly uh...period.

"A male version of Mahiru-nee?" Hiyoko raised an eyebrow. Yeah, Mahiru was the best example of a mom friend. However, the photographer was pretty biased sometimes. She'd prioritize girls over guys. Mahiru also has zero faith in guys, having some stereotypes about them. Not all of Kazuichi's life decisions are great, but they're not all bad!

"It appears so..." Peko covered her mouth, legs crossed. Kazuichi heard Peko and Fuyuhiko are childhood friends, so Natsumi must be her friend too. The Ultimate Swordswoman continued, "Based on my observations last Saturday, both genders seem to admire Hinata."

"... What?" Kazuichi couldn't help but be surprised at this news. Hajime looked basic. Kazuichi tried to wrap it around his head. 'Is it because he's a mom friend?'

"Hajime-chan does look breedable~" Ibuki teased, arms crossed behind her back as she smiled. Kazuichi pats himself on the back while Fuyuhiko chokes on the coke he bought from the vending machine.

"He's a what?!" Fuyuhiko couldn't believe it. Hiyoko was laughing at his expression while Mahiru checked her camera.

"You know? Breedable." Ibuki dropped her arms, rubbing her nose. "It's a slang compliment for guys. It means desirable to chicks and dudes!"

"I don't know why, but I don't want to be called that." Kazuichi wasn't onboard of the term. 'Okay. Maybe if Sonia-san called me that, then maybe I'd like it.'

"Wait. Hank attracts 'em baby chicks?" Akane scratched her head. "Where're the chickens then?"

"Mioda meant babes, Owari." Kazuichi offered.

"Pigs? Pigs aren't chicks, dummy." Akane frowned. When the Ultimate Gymnast is hungry, a lot of the words that go into her head translate to food.

"Don't bother..." Fuyuhiko shook his head, turning his head as the rest of their classmates returned from the cafeteria. Since today's a Monday, that meant the next subject would be foreign-

...

"We have bad news..." Nekomaru spoke to their group. Kazuichi noticed Nagito looking remorseful. The Ultimate Team Manager told what everyone expects. "Komaeda's luck accidentally caused the foreign language teacher to fall from the second-floor staircase."

"That's not that bad. I've seen that clumsy pig falls from the stairs plenty of times," Hiyoko pointed at Mikan, the latter covering her face as if the finger would hurt her.

"You don't understand. The teacher fell from the second floor to the basement..." Ryota ended. Everything turned silent. How unfortunate can you be to stumble across the school's secret basement? That's usually closed and hard to open. "Since we're lagging from the rest of the sections, principal Kirigiri told us to wait for the substitute teacher."

"Why do I have a bad feeling about that statement?" Mahiru scrunched her face.

"I'm sorry, everyone. It would be best if I were to merely fade away from obscurity than-ack?!" Nagito apologized profusely but stopped halfway when Izuru hit the albino with a book on the head.

"Stop boring everyone. It was inevitable." Izuru reassured Nagito in a roundabout way. Kazuichi preferred listening to Gundham over Izuru. Izuru always seemed to be hiding something. Gundham just has this unique way of saying the simplest of stuff.

"I wonder who will be our substitute teacher?" Sonia sat down on her seat, returning one of the hamsters of Gundham. Kazuichi begrudgingly returned to his seat as well, glaring at the... the Chūnibyō!

"Everyone! It's Hinata-kun!" Teruteru rushed inside, carrying a bag of pastries(?)

"Hanamura-kun. I demand you to stop interfering with Nanami-san and Hinata-kun's affairs!" Sonia declared. The Ultimate Princess is great friends with the Ultimate Gamer.

"Oh, this? This is... A welcome gift!" Hanamura reassured. "Everyone needs a warm welcome, Sonia-san! What sort of chef will I be if he never tasted one of my cooking?"

"I see... How thoughtful of you." Sonia clasped her hands together. Kazuichi let out a sigh. His crush got duped again. "Carry on, then!"

"What are you doing at the doorway, Hanamura-kun?" Chiaki asked, and Teruteru almost dropped his goods. The Gamer was playing her game girl, unfazed with the reaction. "Hinata-kun will be teaching us how to read Novoselic before handing us the books Sonia-san's parents gave the government."

"..." Everyone slowly looked at Sonia, who covered her mouth.

"I-I do recall my parents telling me about educating my peers, but this is too soon," Sonia told them. "My apologies. I will do my best to assist everyone."

"We don't mind, Sonia-san!" Kazuichi comforted her. "If we learn your language, we can visit you in your hometown! It's a good thing!"

"Yeah. I'd like to see the sights in your place, Sonia-san." Mahiru added.

"A lot of your games are strategy-based. It is fun," Chiaki smiled.

"Hmph! The great Tanaka won't be stopped by a mere barrier between languages," Gundham crossed his arms.

"My friends..." Sonia smiled.

"Ok. I got the freebies." Hajime nudged Chiaki, walking inside with a wheelbarrow filled with hardbound books. "This happens one more time, I'm asking for compensation."

Chapter Text

On the first time their class met him, Hajime gave them an assignment and fell asleep for the entire hour. The second time Hajime was assigned to them, the brunette had the patience of a saint for each student. Who knew Ibuki could learn languages so quickly?

"..." Hajime exhaled, looking up at the ceiling filled with art the Vatican would buy if the school let them. Apparently, Class 77-A encountered an accident in the chemistry lab. Class 77-A share the same science teacher as Class 77-B. Ergo, Hinata Hajime is back in their lives. What's sad is that they'll see Hajime again after lunch for Physical Education.

"This is my life now..." Hajime's lamenting while the Hiyoko, Kazuichi, Sonia, and Gundham pass down the work manual the science teacher tossed at the reserve student (before getting rushed into the ER). "At least I get paid... But still..."

"Do we have to answer all of this, Hajime?" Kazuichi asked, flipping the pages to count the pages. "Isn't this too much?"

"You can finish this in four sessions. One session if you guys know what you're doing..." Hajime looked away from the ceiling. "Can you guys promise me... Not to let any of your teachers get injured anymore?"

"We didn't do it this time," Nagito made them look so bad, but the truth always hurt. There is a reason why a lot of teachers avoid their section. Yukizome-sensei is a godsend.

"Does this involve the Math teacher?" Izuru inquired.

"No, I'm talking about what happened to the history teacher-" Hajime paused. Mahiru knew what happened to the history teacher. It was actually... An accident on the part of Ibuki. Ibuki and Hiyoko were trying new techniques on the possible concert when Ibuki's sudden change of tone to her music caused someone to fall down the stairs. She and Mikan tracked the woman down and did their best to resuscitate her.

"?" Mahiru turned to Izuru, "Math teacher?"

"What happened to the math teacher?" Hajime asked the Ultimate Hope. Mahiru is starting to sympathize with the teen. Hajime looked like the type to study the materials and watch online videos before teaching them. This experience might traumatize the brunette in the teaching field.

"It was due to his ignorance," Gundham spoke up. Hajime slowly looked at the Ultimate Animal Breeder. Mahiru also looked at the guy, suddenly seeing the cute hamsters pop out. Did the teacher tripped on a hamster?

"..." Hajime opened his mouth but closed it. The brunette scanned the room before speaking. "Give me a minute. That almost made me laugh."

He also has a dark sense of humor.

"If this keeps up, I might get assigned to stalk one of your classmates. I don't want that, okay?" Hajime's words made her look at Sonia. However, she saw Nagito looking behind, so she turned her head to see Izuru. Hajime might sound like he was pleading, but he sounded more tired. "I agreed to temporarily handle the PE and science classes. Yukizome will take care of your foreign language... Please protect your teachers."

"Can we know who the government wishes to monitor?" Peko requested. Hajime looked at the back.

"..." Everyone is staring at Izuru. Izuru does have a mysterious past.

"Let's head to the chemistry lab to get this over with." Hajime changed topic. Standing up, the brunette took the Danish bread Teruteru made for him, taking a bite. "Form 2 groups."

Chapter Text

"Hanamura. Can you make something for me?" Hajime finally spoke up as the brunette was assigned to temporarily supervise their class.

"Whatever you want, Hinata-kun~!" Teruteru gladly pushed his test papers aside. The brunette seemed a little off today, but it might be because of the recent suicide of one of the teachers.  No, that's not right either.  The Ultimate Cook sees to it to evaluate his future (hot) customers to get their patronage. Hajime's usual verdant green eyes are shifting to a yellow-red haze. Hajime wasn't giving them the silent treatment, but he was more distracted than the time on the gym.  He was this close to seeing Hajime's chest! Why did Fuyuhiko get in the way?!  Teruturu asked, pulling out his equipment from his bag. "Chicken soup? Sashimi? Caesar Salad?"

"Anything you want to make right now." Hajime rubbed his temple. The brunette was stressed or experiencing a headache.

"U-Uh... E-excuse me i-if I'm i-interrupting b-but..." Mikan spoke up while Teruteru pulled his mini-fridge kept in one of the cabinets of the classroom.

"Just get on with it!" Hiyoko told the woman, still focused on her papers. Once they are done answering the test sheet, Hajime will allow them to talk to each other as long as they stay in the classroom. The new History teacher is taking a while.

"S-sorry!" Mikan apologized and took a deep breath before going into work mode. Teruteru liked both sides of the nurse, finding it hot. Mikan inquired. "I don't want to sound nosy, but I heard from Matsuda-kun that the Reserve Course are suffering from reoccurring psychosomatic disease. However, the admin agreed to let the government handle the situation. May we know the nature, extent, and fatality of this so-called despair disease?"

"And why do you want to know?" Hajime raised an eyebrow.

"Are we not allowed to know?" Mikan argued back. "For the science community to label it a psychosomatic disease? We need to take any precaution we can to prevent further contamination."

...

"You,  unfortunately , have a point. The Ultimate Scientist did theorize the disease to be contagious..." Hajime sighed, stabbing a straw into the orange juice box carton. "Who in the class knows about the  despair disease ?"

"The what now?" Teruteru started the fire, preparing tea for the man. Natural orange juice is a good drink, not the artificial one!

"A psychosomatic disease?" Nagito looked from his papers. "Of all the names the science community could come up with, it had to be  despair disease ? How foul."

"Sounds like a game ailment." Chiaki pondered. "Does that mean the cure is something hopeful?"

"In second thought, maybe the despair disease isn't a bad thing?" Nagito changed his answer. "That would mean everyone will be finding hope strong enough to repel the despair!"

'So, a drug?' Teruteru theorized.

"Natsumi said it was a lie the government gave, so the students won't feel bad on whatever they did during the Parade." Fuyuhiko voiced his opinion.

"It kinda sounds catchy. Despair disease.." Ibuki tapped the tip of her pen on her lips, thinking about it. "Nope! Ibuki has no clue!"

"I did hear Sato-san talk about that." Mahiru set her pen down. "Which is why everyone in the Reserve Course has to watch an animation every homeroom class."

"Animation?" Ryota repeated, and his seatmate Akane dropped her pen.

"Does Ryota-chan know anything about it?" Ibuki asked.

"W-well.." The animator thought about his words. "I do remember being commissioned to make something."

"That sounds about right," Mahiru looked behind to stare at the shy male. "But can a video cure a disease?"

"I give up. This is boring~" Akane leaned on her chair. "Can we do something instead?"

"You'll have to finish the worksheet to do something else, Owari," Nekomaru told the athlete.

"Ehhhh..." Akane sighed.

"I'm more curious how it came to be," Sonia admitted. "An outbreak doesn't happen without a cause. Is it safe to assume the origin is gone?"

"Can one truly eliminate a concept crafted by the mind?" Gundham revealed the issues at hand.

"Wait. If it's contagious, then shouldn't the Reserve Department be quarantined?" Kazuichi tugged his beanie.

"Not a viable solution, Soda," Peko explained to the mechanic. "That countermeasure will cause panic to the various sectors of society. This will also tarnish the school's reputation even further."

"Ok. I gave you enough time to discourse." Hajime also finished his orange juice. "Yes. The despair disease emerged during the Parade, infecting thousands of students during the isolation phase. Symptoms consist of fevers, changes of personality, and short-term memory. The illness is highly infectious when the victim's temperature reaches past 39 degrees Celsius. No one died because of the disease yet, and the Hope Video crafted by the Ultimate Animator can delay the effects on its victims."

"It's because the Hope Video isn't true hope," Nagito theorized.

"I guess so," Hajime wasn't sure either. Teruteru is already cutting the fish, making a full course meal for the hard-working boy!

"I noticed you used the term students," Chiaki pointed out. "Does that mean an Ultimate caught the disease as well?"

"Yes. During the search, we identified Tsumiki Mikan to be suffering from the illness. We managed to cure her before it was too late." Hajime placed his juice box next to three other empty juice boxes on the table. Teruteru recalled last February police officers coming over and interrogating all of them one by one. It was a scary time, but at least the government resolved the Parade!

"Is it by the Hope video?" Sonia asked.

"No, Mitarai refused to give the video until its completion. You'll have to play mind games with your teacher to learn what happened to her case." Hajime looked back at Teruteru, curious about his dishes.  He must be so hungry right now! Teruteru can feel it down his loins. Hajime changed the topic, "Hanamura, are you done with the food? Owari looks ready to pounce on that."

"I am." Teruteru placed his food on the foldable serving cart Kazuichi made him. He also made food for Akane, which he left on his table. Wheeling the meal to the brunette, Teruteru can hear Akane jumping on Mahiru/Ryota's table to get to his area. "Here you go, sweetheart."

"Thanks." Hajime assisted Teruteru place the food on the table. Their fingers accidentally brushing, Hajime murmured in a softer but albeit deeper tone. "Your mother called me to tell you she's proud of you."

"I have never felt emotionally moved and physically aroused at the same time," Teruteru answered back.

"Ha?" Hajime stared at him, confused.

"DUDE!" Kazuichi pulled his desk back, inching closer to Mahiru's side.

Chapter Text

Nagito knew Izuru was suffering one of those days where the male refused to leave the room. Yukizome-sensei told them not to force him during those moments, so everyone respected the Ultimate Hope's Decision. When Hajime was the first subject of the day, the brunette gave everyone a game to play to learn about Japanese history. The reserve student then asked Nagito to bring him to where Izuru was. Nagito refused but eventually gave in. He was... Hajime is convincing despite being a tsundere.

"He's not going to be happy," Nagito warned for the umpteenth time. He was lightly holding Hajime's hand, avoiding the bruise on the brunette's wrist. The albino spotted it when Hajime walked towards his seat. Nagito already asked Chiaki about it, but the gamer said Hajime would be fine.  Hajime came here to fulfill a goal, not to ruin lives.

"I know," Hajime replied. His hand is warm, changing the pattern of his footsteps once they reach the dormitory. "However, my colleague failed to report on him yesterday. "

"I wouldn't be surprised if the stalker is the reason he's feeling down." Nagito grimaced. He knew Izuru required surveillance to avoid going in the wrong hands, but Nagito would like it if the government sought Izuru's consent first. Izuru barely has any control over his situation. Based on their conversation, Izuru didn't even consider himself a person. The Ultimate Hope saw himself as a tool to inspire hope. Nothing more... Nothing less. It was...

"We're here," Hajime declared, shaking Nagito back to the present. The brunette let go of his hand, reaching forward to turn the knob. Nagito looked around, surprised how he could go on auto-pilot to head to his friend's place. Wait... They are friends, right? No... Nagito wasn't good enough for him... right? Hajime grabbed his hand once more, tugging the albino inside. "Come on. I need your help on this."

"I'm coming," Nagito wasn't sure why he kept retreating to his thoughts. He didn't want to make himself look like a fool to this guy. Even if Hajime's part of the government, he's still talentless reserve. That didn't mean he wasn't hopeful. Nagito didn't want to overthink when it came to Hajime. Thinking about this brunette made his head all fuzzy.

"Too bare," Hajime remarked, scanning the room and-

"Where did you get that?" Nagito asked, spotting the brunette carrying a large shopping bag. He explicitly remembers the brunette holding nothing when they went out. 'Did the guard give him something? No, that can't be. I snuck him inside the dormitory through the window. Then... Where did he get that?'

"What are you talking about, Komaeda? I've always held onto these," Hajime let go of his hand, walking towards the counter to set the bag down. "Can you prepare food for him? I'm sure you know what your classmate wants."

"But what if he isn't hungry?" Nagito glanced at the bed, seeing a lump on the bed. Izuru's curled up on the bed, not sleeping. Like usual.

"Make something that lasts long inside and outside the stomach," Hajime started pulling out cleaning equipment. Nagito stared down at the floor. The room is a little messy but not as bad as Kazuichi or Akane's room. "Go on. Check the fridge and make something."

"Hmm..." Nagito went over to the fridge, opening the door to see the contents. A lot of drinks, supplements, and condiments... Nagito bit his lower lip, searching around for something to fill Izuru's stomach. If there is a sliver of chance Izuru's hungry, Nagito has to do his best to produce something.

"Why do you smell like tacos?" Hajime wondered. Nagito grabbed the jam bottles before closing the fridge. Cradling his goods, the albino checked what Hajime was doing. The room is a lot tidier than he remembered. Hajime managed to convince Izuru to get out of the blanket but struggled to get Izuru to sit up. Hajime continued, "Not the bad tacos, but people aren't supposed to smell like tacos."

"You smell like oranges," Izuru confirmed another mystery a lot of them noticed. Hajime always smells like oranges. His addiction to orange juice has caused a shift in his scent. Mikan said that using orange juice as a water substitute was unhealthy, but Hajime liked orange juice very much.

"I've heard of an orange perfume, but never a taco perfume," Hajime finally got Izuru to sit down, turning around to see Nagito staring at them. "Komaeda will be making you a meal. Is that okay with you?"

"... Hn." Izuru nodded. Nagito smiled back at the duo before turning around.

'I'm screwed.' Nagito only managed to find jam and peanut butter. Nothing in the fridge can be used for a healthy meal. After setting down the bottles, he began opening the cabinets. 'I will not let Kamukura-kun down. I have to make something decent. What can he eat?!'

'A-ha!' Nagito obtained a bag of oat. However, another issue came to mind. Izuru and Hajime saw him hold the jam bottles. He can make oatmeal, but one of them will ask what happened to the strawberry and peanut butter bottles. Nagito can see flour, sugar, other spices... But he doesn't know how to cook. It's why no one lets him in the kitchen. He can burn water, and the stove isn't even on.

"Is everything okay over there, Komaeda?" Hajime asked. Nagito was grabbing the measuring cups as he turned to face them.

"Everything is fine!" Nagito reassured. Hajime's currently combing Izuru's hair, undoing all the tangles. Izuru's resting his head against Hajime's shoulder, too lazy to fight back. Nagito returned to the oatmeal. 'I can do this.'

...

[Hajime pulled out his phone to order take-out after seeing Nagito's creation.]

[Izuru didn't feel well after taking a bite of Nagito's creation. . ]

[Both Hajime and Izuru had to stop Nagito from punishing himself. . .]

Chapter Text

It's the start of the second week with the reserve student teacher. Hajime is taking care of PE, science, and world history while Yukizome-sensei took over the foreign language... Their Homeroom teacher is also handling their Home Economics, music, calligraphy as well as public speaking. It made Kuzuryu Fuyuhiko realize how much the adults hate their section...

"Hanamura-kun... I never imagined you would become one of my love rivals!" Chiaki held her game girl in one hand, staring at the Ultimate Cook scribbling on his notepad.

"I'm sorry Nanami-san," Teruteru looked up. "But he's really cute when you tease him."

"Yes, b-but.." Chiaki pouted. "If you keep doing that, Hinata-kun might think you are one of his love candidates! He's dense."

"Oh my. A virgin, huh?" Teruteru smiled, returning to his notepad. "That gave me an idea!"

"Hmmmmm" Chiaki is conflicted. Fuyuhiko did notice a pattern. Hajime is getting bombarded with messages from each of their parents. They learned Novoselic tradition and language, trained how to use a gun and avoid getting killed by a gun, got a lot of homemade recipes to make from several mothers... More freebies.  Maybe Hajime is the mom's friend?

"Hm?" Fuyuhiko looked back at his phone, reading Natsumi's text. 'Why are those damn teachers assigning so many projects weeks before their examination week?!'

"You can tease Hinata-kun in moderation. I'll be watching you..." The Ultimate Gamer looked at the rest of them, asking. "Who else likes Hinata-kun?"

"Hajime-chan is a great guy." Ibuki shrugged. "But he feels more like a mom than a bf."

"I don't swing that way," Kazuichi reassured their class representative. "I'm more interested in-"

"I approve of your relationship with him!" Sonia held her hands together. "I will be your BBF."

"You mean BFF?" Kazuichi told the princess. "I mean, I guess you can call it Best buddy friend?"

"He's a decent role model for his section," Peko explained. "His maturity makes it difficult to render him a love candidate."

"That makes it sound like Nanami-san likes older people," Mahiru sighed.

"His birthday is on New Year." Chiaki frowned. "He's just a couple of months older than me."

"I don't mind Hajime-nii going with Nanami," Hiyoko yawned. "He's easy to manipulate."

"Manipulation is against the rules. No one is allowed to deceive Hinata-kun. He's nice." Chiaki told her classmates off.

"..." Fuyuhiko looked out of the door. He did watch Hajime resist the urge to bang his head on the wall because of how slow Akane's performing.  That's respect right there.  Fuyuhiko also knew he'd never take the teaching occupation after seeing the stress on the guy.  What the hell is going on with Hope's Peak Academy?  Fuyuhiko didn't tell anyone (except Peko, of course), but he spoke to Natsumi if Hajime was doing well in his class. Natsumi said Hajime's good in most subjects except for Math. That's his weakness.  No wonder he didn't take the Math subject.

"Hello, everyone!" Mikan was cheerful today- It seemed the Ultimate Nurse managed to catch Hajime and tend to his injuries. Fuyuhiko surveyed the Student Body in the Reserve Course. Bullying is prevalent in the area. It didn't matter the sex because everyone wanted a damn scapegoat.  Sickening.

"Good news, guys. I convinced Kamukura to teach us World History." Hajime was also dragging Izuru with him. "Huh? Where's Komaeda, Nidai, and Mitarai?"

"Kuwata's baseball hit Komaeda's head. He will be entering the infirmary in the next five minutes," Izuru stated, watching Mikan rush out of the room. "Nidai is in the bathroom while Mitarai's excuse letter will be coming right about now."

"Excuse me, the principal called Mitarai-san to the... Office...?" The janitor peaked through the door, holding an excuse slip. Everyone looked at Izuru.

"You think he can teach us about the future event?" Kazuichi wondered. "I mean... That's important too."

"Boring..." Izuru sighed. Fuyuhiko had a feeling Hajime dragged the guy from his bedroom. Then again, Izuru could outrun a reserve student. That meant Izuru came willingly?

"Did Hinata-kun and Kamukura-kun become friends?" Chiaki tilted her head, surprised and relieved.

"No," Hajime and Izuru replied in unison.

"That's great news!" Chiaki clapped her hands. "I can't wait to tell Yukizome-sensei."

Chapter Text

Mioda Ibuki can't take Hajime seriously.  Sure, the teen is assigned to be their teacher, but he isn't the bossy type. Yukizome-sensei was younger in vibe, but that's because Hajime was a mom friend. Ibuki wondered if they could drag Hajime with them on their final Summer field trip? Everyone in the class seems to like him, even Nagito. Yeah. Ibuki knows Nagito likes Hajime.  Why else does Nagito call Hajime Tsuntsun hair that one time?!

"I have good news and bad news," Hajime started as he sat down on the chair. "Which one do you want to hear?"

" Bad, " the Majority of them called out. Sonia added, "Then good!"

"The Bad news is that I know all of your guardians and parents," Hajime seemed displeased on this. "Same adults who call me to ask if you guys are doing all right. I'm pretty sure I sent all of you their mails-"

"Boo! That's cringe!" Ibuki didn't want to hear that. "Give us the real deal."

"Unlike the previous years, various organizations and agencies will be making your exam this time. Obviously, they're going to try recruiting you," Hajime made every one pause. Hajime's carrying a book this time. Ibuki did notice Sato reading her lessons in advance too. While the Main Course department has their practical exams, the Reserve Course will take their final exam for the first semester. "Of course, the school will be managing the flow of the program and might give hints to the students what possible test types you'll encounter"

"SHIT! The practical exams!" Nekomaru yelled. Shit indeed! Ibuki hadn't taken a single practical exam in her entire year in this school. Komaeda canceled the first one because something happened to Natsumi and Sato, while the PARADE canceled the second one. This is the first time they're going to take the big test!

"I completely forgot about it..." Chiaki hit her face with her game girl. "Class Reps are supposed to know this stuff. (Ibuki can hear Izuru yawn while Chiaki spoke,) I'm sorry, everyone..."

"I'm fucked." Fuyuhiko knew what sort of test his dad would give him, standing up. "My old man is going to decimate me!"

"I-I heard that they let us operate on people..." Mikan covered her mouth. "So many eyes w-watching me... W-what if I... fail? "

"What sort of cooking will I present to them?" Teruteru gasped, realizing the enormous amount of possible clients that would want to hire him. "No. What type of style do they want from me?!"

"What a pain..." Hiyoko hit her head on the table, staying there.

"That doesn't help me..." Mahiru pulled out her phone to check what her possible examiner could be. "...At all."

"Wait. If we fail on this one, do we get kicked out?" Akane wondered, scanning the room. "B-but we're in our final year!"

"No one is failing this class!" Nekomaru told her off. "Isn't that right, Nanami?"

"Yes..." Chiaki said this, but her mind was elsewhere.

"Don't lose to despair, everyone." Nagito smiled, strangely the most hopeful ones on the team. "We still have enough time to prepare!"

"Yeah. We still have Summer vacation to think about it!" Kazuichi agreed, turning to face Sonia. "Right Sonia-san?"

"Y-yes." Sonia is staring down at her desk, conflicted and worried.

"S-Sonia-san?" Kazuichi asked, getting infected with his seatmate's worry.

"Is that all?" Peko asked as everyone panicked. Ibuki's scared, but she's not that scared. She already made a bunch of songs last year, and even more because of the memories she got from this school. Music is her thing. Worrying over her passion won't do any good.

"Other than the fact you're going to get overworked that day and receive the results on New Year? Yeah." Hajime shrugged, indifferent to their predicament.

"W-what about the good news, Hajime-chan?" Ibuki asked, hoping there was one.

"Your Vacation trip got accepted. It's the least Yukizome can do for all of you," Hajime nodded sagely. "Also, the school finally got substitute teachers. We don't have to see each other anymore."

...

"That's not good news at all!!" Ibuki and many others are yelling at the startled brunette. Knowing the newbies, they're going to swamp them with work.

"Cancel them!" Ryota cried. "Let them come after the practical exam!"

"Did you forget I'm also enrolled in this school?" Hajime asked.

"You leave us no choice..." Gundham frowned. "My Generals will intercept them."

"Hold up! What if you try talking to them first?" Hajime negotiated. "I'm sure they'll understand. I mean, let Izuru convince them. He has all the talents."

"Let's execute Tanaka's plan," Izuru agreed.

"You piece of shit. Be reasonable!" Hajime cursed. This! This is why Ibuki can't take him seriously. He sounds like a classmate who's tired of their shit. Hajime rubbed his temple, "What now?"

Chapter Text

Visits from Hajime were amusing. The reserve student would always arrange his room, making the bland room slightly different with each visit. So far, the brunette brought Nagito, Chiaki, and Nekomaru into his room.

Izuru did not mind Nagito's presence. The albino was a frequent visitor to his area. Chiaki was a decent guest, offering predictable movies and game releases to accomplish. Izuru spent an hour before he found himself having nothing else to analyze. Nekomaru was a mild nuisance, forcing him to get out and perform the menial exercise. However, Izuru did not dislike the Manager's efforts. Hajime had a routine...

"You should take care of your hair," Hajime told him, combing his hair after persuading him to get up. "It strangely doesn't smell, but still..."

"..." Izuru didn't reply, having no obligation to answer the man. Hajime would enter his room, arrange his room and get him to sit up on the bed to brush his hair.  This activity was soothing...  Predictable to an extent.

"Sorry if none of your classmates could come," Hajime spoke softly, sometimes using his fingers due to the brush failing on its function. "They're busy researching at the moment..."

"..." Izuru didn't mind. He expected this to happen. After Hajime leaked the mode of the incoming test, Class 77-B rushed to their respective talent lab and related facility to reexamine their talent. Izuru was not worried about the practical exams. The majority of his time in this school focused on tests. 'There is no difference.'

"If you're hungry, you still have Nidai's protein shake in the fridge," Hajime told him. The Ultimate Team Manager did create a surplus on his last visit. Hajime is done combing his hair. The brunette was akin to a maintenance worker, ensuring he remained optimized. The student will leave soon...

This will be the last time Hajime will visit his room, but this will not be the last time he will see the teenager. His classmates will utilize the boy's birthday as an excuse to gather everyone to a class party. How boring... How predictably boring...

"Done," Hajime hummed. Izuru already pointed out that combing his hair was a waste of time. Izuru did not feel like doing anything today. As soon as everyone leaves his room, he will lie down on his bed. His hair will be messy again. Chiaki ensured him that that was okay.  Hajime did the same task with her during the weekends. The brunette does this to make people feel better.

"..." Izuru remained silent. Having his hair combed was nice. It was not uncomfortable. He allowed Hajime to comb his hair. It was a routine, but not anymore. He did not mind this. It was predictable.

"The principal allowed you to come with the class this Summer trip," Hajime offered, letting Izuru notice his hand was gripping the other's jacket. "Of course, you're going to have a couple of people monitor you."

"..." Izuru let's go and sat watching Hajime pull away from him. The room looks different again. Ibuki's instruments have changed color.  Vibrant .

"Matsuda and one of my colleagues will monitor your progress," Hajime concluded, getting off the bed.  The room's temperature dropped by two degrees Celsius, and the wallpaper is now beige instead of grey . Hajime rambled. "Not sure when, but your classmates will visit you during the week. You do need clothes for the trip."

"Does anyone need my assistance?" Izuru finally spoke up before Hajime could get off his bed. The Ultimate Hope did not expect himself to speak either. His voice is hoarse. He will need to drink water later whenever he feels the energy to do so.

"Hm..." Hajime frowned. Based on the scent lingering on the male, Hajime recently emerged from the library. The brunette had skipped lunch to visit him based on the wall clock given to him by Mahiru. Hajime stood up, straightening his clothes. "I guess? I don't have time to ask."

"Goodbye," Izuru said something unnecessary, so Hajime faced him in wonder. The Ultimate was bored but refused to head out.  Nothing is interesting outside.  He could not sleep, but his body was exhausted.  Nothing stimulates him nowadays.  Izuru chose to be alone, but he did not want to be alone.  He is unproductive.  Hajime was leaving, and Izuru predicted this was his last visit.

...

Hajime looked at him. The 17-year-old brunette, recovering from the injuries afflicted to him by his department, scrutinized his words as if Izuru spoke in a different dialect. Hajime walked to him, reaching out to hold him. Izuru lets the male hug him. Hajime is warm.

"You need more hugs."

"..." Izuru stays silent.  He does not need to say anything. He does not need to do anything.  Hajime will receive nothing from him. Predictably, the brunette pulls away. Hajime has class, late for his Math class. Hajime had hazel brown eyes?

"It will be raining all week," Hajime spoke up. The brunette's weather forecast is also incorrect. The chances of rain are nil. "If it does rain, I want you to accept your classmate's invites. Do we have a deal?"

"..." Izuru nods his head. He sees no harm in the agreement. It will not rain.

...

It rained.

How peculiar.

Chapter Text

Tanaka Gundham did not expect rain to fall on his domain. Even his minions weren't ready for Nature's hasty decision.  It was not humid when the first droplets fell.  The trees are not reacting as they should despite the harsh winds and freezing downpours raining from above. The skies do not mirror the surface.

'How long will this last?' Tanaka stared at the sky. He had hoped the rain would stop by today, but it hadn't. Currently, he is monitoring the situation alongside other formidable warriors of his caliber. 'Had someone performed a rain dance?'

'Or... Is this a delayed event?' Gundham raised his hand, staring at the supposed ice on his hand. Based on his experience as the Supreme Overlord of Ice, the water droplets should transform to ice with the current temperature. 'Freezing rain.'

'But if so...' Gundham glanced around his surroundings. The rain stopped at the stroke of midnight before resuming on the witching hour.  There is nothing coated in a thin sheet of ice.  The freezing water remains in its liquid state until attacked.  Something is amiss.  The Ultimate Animal Breeder asked himself the mystery, "Why in the middle of Summer?"

"Tanaka-san? The movie will be starting soon," Sonia called out, peering from behind the door. Gundham exhaled, watching a puff of cloud released from his mouth. The Ultimate Meteorologist didn't expect the change of winds either, the Alumni scrambling to find a logical explanation for the anomaly. Gundham had no use for such trivial matters, not when they refused the alternate possibilities. 'This cannot be the work of Mother Nature.'

"Sorry, but Hinata-kun is sick today..." Mahiru's ally in the Reserve Course was in the room as he dried his hand.

"Hm.." Gundham had no concern over these lower beings either. The majority of the Reserve Course Department had no want for life, dwindling their precious time following each other's tails to the depths of monotony.  They learn but understand nothing.  They live but know no purpose... And why is this so? For they chose to reject  individuality.

"He's been sick since yesterday. If this keeps up, we won't be able to drag him with us to the Summer Resort." Chiaki huffed. The Ultimate Gamer had been polishing her skills non-stop. Jum-P even found the gamer's hands moving despite her eyes being closed. Gundham commends her tenacity. "Let's visit him."

"Don't," Fuyuhiko's sister placed her legs on the table, fanning herself with a textbook. "You guys are going to wake him up. He needs the sleep."

"FYI. Kuzuryu is his roommate," Sato supplied. Gundham removed his raincoat, protecting his inner clothes, and grabbed his scarf where his generals rest.

"Does that mean you're also another Love rival?" Chiaki gasped.

"As if! He's married to his work. That's how he got sick in the first place." Natsumi flipped her book to start reading.

"Yes, but he's single and boyfriend material..." Chiaki mumbled, looking back at her game girl.

"He doesn't know BL," Natsumi offered something cryptic.  Why did Mikan trip from the acronym?  The blonde continued, "Also, why would you guys drag him out there? He couldn't even determine how many sides an Octagon has."

"That is bad. How could Hinata-kun not know something so basic?" Nagito asked, looking away from Hiyoko and Sonia as the duo braided Izuru's hair. Gundham never expected the Ultimate Hope to allow people to touch his hair, but it could be the work of apathy. Life has lost meaning for the dark one, which is the primary reason their Class Representative requested all of them to come over to perform dark rituals to improve their resilience.

"Are your tests that hard?" Kazuichi yawned, covering his mouth partially.

" Yes. " Both Sato and Natsumi answered at the same time.

"If we fail, we get kicked out," Sato explained. "Unless you bribe the professor, that is."

"You'd be lucky if they want money, though..." Natsumi leaned on her chair. "I hear profs want to get laid. Don't worry, Peko. I have a knife."

"Good," Peko nodded.

"I hope our exams have no writing..." Akane munched on the popcorn offered to her. Teruteru is testing out various alterations of the common-day snacks. Gundham overheard the dark queen explain the two Ultimates are working hard to amaze Hajime. The logic is bizarre but highly effective.

"Don't worry, Owari. Your exam will most likely test your physical prowess." Nekomaru had been guiding Akane in her training. A warrior who gives as if his days are numbered. How foreboding...

"You think these are enough, guys?!" Ibuki came in with Ryota, carrying a box. The Animator was excited to show his collection, which might be a blessing and a curse.

"More than enough. What the hell, man?! That's a lot." Kazuichi rubbed his eyes, staring at the box. "You sure we can finish that?"

"Let me show you a skill I've learned from my time in junior high..." Ryota suddenly gained an aura. Gundham pet Cham-P's spirit, calming his general.

"As long as we sleep before 11," Mikan told everyone, worried for their health as expected from a healer. "We still have to wake up for class."

"Oh, come on, Mikan-chan~" Ibuki set down the box before heading to the nurse. The Ultimate Musician hugged the woman, trying to utilize her charm. "It'll only be one night!"

"B-but we already slept very late last night!" Mikan exclaimed.

'Hm...' Gundham sat down on the couch, observing the environment. Izuru's room was spacious for a one-person bedroom. If not for the decorations, he would find himself suffocating from the emptiness. He did not know what the future would bring, but he would not succumb to its desires. 'I will triumph!'

Chapter Text

Hajime felt like shit.  Why did he do that again?  His uncle already told him not to strain himself, and he did just that.

Thank god Natsumi was forgiving, or he'd stay inside the infirmary with the Ultimate related to the culprit to the Parade.  Childhood friends often spell trouble.  Hajime wasn't going to go into full details on that because someone took care of that. He knew more of the inner workings of the Reserve Course than anyone else. Hajime hated his assignment.  Urgh.

He should focus on sleeping and stop thinking. He's weak mentally AND physically.  This despair disease did quite a number on him.  If only society lets its ordinary citizens obey and not think.  What a boring world, though.  When will the team find the cure? He hates drowning in his thoughts. Having no control over them is a serious concern...?

"???" The brunette opened his eyes as the door to the room opened. It is now the sixth day since he fell sick. He advised Natsumi not to stay too long in the room unless she wanted to catch the illness. Hajime isn't sure how the Despair Disease works, but he has a fever. He may be contagious. He had to get better ASAP.  Hiding under the blanket, Hajime watched his roommate... that's not his yakuza roommate.

"Out of all the people in this damned school..." The Reserve course student muttered under his breath, glaring at the Ultimate Hope. He had hoped it would be Chiaki, so shooing the gamer would be easy as slicing a piece of cake... But to be visited by the guy his colleague was supposed to stalk was not part of the plan. 'Is that cake?'

"I have a slice of Owari's cake," Izuru scanned the room, spotting his area. "It's decent."

"Don't come any closer," Hajime warned. "I'm infected by the despair disease, remember?"

"..." Izuru took a step forward.

"Kamukura fucking Izuru. Don't be a suicidal ass." Hajime knew he should have assigned someone to hug Izuru per day. The guy needed physical contact to remember bits of his humanity.

"Cake," Izuru held out the plate of dessert. Hajime wished someone could speak some sense to this guy.

"Set it on the table..." Hajime closed his eyes, lifting his blanket to cover his face. 'If I ignore him, he'll go away.'

...

Huh? Maybe it worked?

...

'And he stole my files.' Hajime woke up to notice a difference.  He knew his body was asleep, but his mind was awake.  Hajime had a huge pile of cases on his desk to accomplish, and it was gone now.

'Gotta tell someone about this..! Damn! I can't reach...' Hajime tried reaching for his phone, but it was too far. Hajime returned to his bed, closing his eyes. 'Eh. What's the worse that can happen?'

Chapter Text

The last things Nidai Nekomaru remembered was the sense of numbness and sudden loss of breath before falling to the ground. Their class was in the mall, buying clothes for Nagito and Izuru. Those two didn't have any guardian or parent to take care of them.

Nekomaru remembered people screaming, Akane to be exact. He couldn't speak or do anything, knocked out cold after everything got too bright. Then, he remembered something. He remembered ignoring this feeling on his chest that kept hurting. He reasoned it was due to fatigue from exercising on a chilly morning...

The skies were red. It was still red when they went to the mall. Nekomaru wondered if the skies would continue to be red when he woke up.

...

Right. He had a heart defect. The Ultimate Team Manager didn't want to think about that. He couldn't do anything about it, so what was the point of thinking about it? Besides, a congenital heart defect wouldn't stop him from living his life! Damn ... Guess that meant he wouldn't be able to go on that summer field trip. Nekomaru would like to display his secret ability to his classmates.  Maybe that would convince everyone to work out more?

Nekomaru knew he was awake but couldn't open his eyes. In fact, why was it damn freezing in here?!  Hospitals aren't that cold!  He should know because he spent about half of his life in hospitals. When is he going to wake up? If this keeps up, his classmates are going to be worried sick! He also had to take a shit really soon.

...

What if the doctors confined him to the bed again? Nekomaru doesn't want that. He already knows he won't live long. He can try to push past 20, but he doubts he can live over 40.

He's not dead yet... right? He can't be dead! But what if he is dead? He isn't sure what to say. What can he do? He can't seem to wake up, and it's damn cold in here. There aren't any memories flashing before his eyes, so he isn't dead. SHIT! He might be dead. Didn't the doctor say he'd die at 20? DAMN IT! Nekomaru refused to believe it. He ain't dead yet! He wanted to take the practice exams with his classmates! He had so many people to train to reach their dreams! He wanted to...

"...Komaeda...danger..."

"..." Nekomaru finally managed to open his eyes. His body felt stiff. He knew he wasn't in the infirmary. He looked like he was in... the Morgue?

"Thanks."

"?" Nekomaru recognized the voice. It was Hajime, and he also realized he was resting on a metal table. 'What is going on here?'

"..." Hajime watched the personnel leave, turning to look at him. The brunette commented, "Why is your Biology Laboratory close to the Morgue?"

"W-we're in the Morgue?" Nekomaru coughed. His throat was parched, and he realized another thing as he managed to sit up. He was naked. The only thing keeping him covered was a white cloth.

"Yep." Hajime tossed him an orange juice bottle which he managed to grab. "Drink up. Your voice sounds bad."

"Thanks." Nekomaru uncapped the bottle. This place was damn cold and bare. "Why am I here, anyway?"

"Right... Komaeda's talent triggered." Hajime sighed. Nekomaru drank the juice, waiting for something else.  That's it?  Komaeda's luck happened. Hajime placed a hand on the nearby table. "The school knew Komaeda's talent was potent, but it didn't reach to this extent."

"So?" Nekomaru knew the teen was omitting something.

"The school hid your condition to your classmates while you were in critical condition." Hajime waved his free hand. "While they're in the airplane, you flatlined." 

"And the school decided to label me dead immediately?" Nekomaru finished the bottle, setting it down. He moved his legs to make his bare feet touch the ground.

"No, they tried everything first," Hajime said as the manager realized a bunch of stitches on his chest. "I don't know the full details either. I just found you getting stuffed in this place."

"You think I can still catch up with them?" Nekomaru wrapped the towel to cover his lower part.

"You're not curious what happened to you?" Hajime raised an eyebrow. 

"Of course, I'm curious!" The team manager finally stood up but held onto one of the handles nearby to steady himself. "But who knows how long I've been asleep? I gotta make sure everyone knows I'm doing all right!"

"No wonder you're the Ultimate Team Manager. Always so energetic..." Hajime searched around the room. "Found your clothes."

"Great. Give it here!" Nekomaru raised his arm and got his clothes wrapped in a plastic bag. "How's everyone?"

"I just recovered from my sickness now.." Hajime shrugged, turning away as Nekomaru changed clothes. "If you do make it to the vacation site, will you take care of Nanami for me?"

"Everyone in class cares about her, Hinata." Nekomaru told the brunette. Hajime needed to place more faith in them. "She's in good hands."

Chapter Text

Tsumiki Mikan was forgetting someone. Someone important...  Someone beloved.  The Ultimate Nurse tried searching around for the answer, asking around but finding nothing out of the ordinary.  That person was not ordinary.  She remembered golden locks and sapphire eyes... Followed by something?

'Who were they... to me?' Mikan looked up at the ceiling, unable to sleep again. She didn't want to alarm anyone on this, but... to not remember this person scared her. 'Maybe I will see them someday..'

'Maybe.'

Chapter Text

Pekoyama Peko managed to obtain information on the possible types of examination for the incoming practical exam. Everyone in Class 77 is working collectively to graduate. Yukizome-sensei also admits to having some of her classmates help with the test creation. There are three types of exams:   written, oral, presentation, and mixed.  The first two tests are the usual mode of assessing one's abilities. The presentation comes in two subtypes - presentation of the product and presentation of one's capabilities, while the mixed test would be two or more types combined. This is the school's preferred form of examination for its students.

The new type of examination leaked would be  combat and simulation.  Combat does not need any explanation. The difficulty of the test will depend on the chosen opponent. Simulation is questionable. It may be a virtual reality to prevent injury or a fictional event occurring outside the testing site. Murasame managed to convince the administration to give them a hint of the types of examinations-

"Dude..." Kazuichi spoke up, being the first one to enter the area. "We didn't invite you, so you could study when you get better..."

"How... Unfortunate," Nagito covered his mouth. Peko held onto her blade, staring at the unfortunate reserve student inside the simulation room. For Hajime to be in the simulation room would only mean one thing.

"Wait! Harold?! You're one of the opponents?" Akane pointed at the brunette. "Don't you have an exam too?"

"Oh. Don't worry about the exams. You guys won't be facing me," Hajime uncrossed his arms, resigned on his fate. The Ultimate Swordswoman wasn't sure why they kept meeting Natsumi's friend. She presumed the government is lacking members to supply for the school.  How unfortunate.  Hajime was wearing a Japanese officer uniform and nothing else. Where are his weapons?

"Anyways, I'll be giving you a taste of the government's simulation test," Hajime explained, and every one scanned the room. It was empty. They were in an empty gym-and the doors closed behind them. "Before that, I hope Komaeda, Nanami, and Nidai consider working for the government. It's been ten years since the government got any Ultimates working for them, so it would be a big help if you guys did that."

"Shameful plug, Hajime-chan." Ibuki snickered. "And what about us? Ibuki wouldn't mind performing to the jail mates~!"

"He's saying that because we get paid higher in private businesses than public, Mioda-san.." Mitarai explained.

"..." Peko knew the government was desperate, but she never realized Hajime would speak of it without reserve.

"Before we start, please perform some warm-ups for the incoming exercise..." Hajime removed his hat. He stopped halfway when he saw a hole in his hat. Peko thought it was intentional, but the male's ahoge could be a weapon.

"Do we get to shoot and stuff?" Chiaki asked, stretching her arms. "That's what most simulation games are about."

"That's one way," Hajime somewhat agreed. "You need to move a lot."

"I guess you should work for the government," Fuyuhiko told Nagito. Peko noticed the yakuza growing protective over the unfortunate albino. "Knowing those guys, they'll let you work part-time. The last time they did full-time, the Ultimates working for them quit."

"I see..." Nagito nodded. "Though, I'd like to travel around to see the other schools catering to Ultimates."

"Ah, yes! I did receive two letters of admission," Sonia added. "One from Japan and the other in Britain."

"Thank god Sonia-san chose Hope's Peak!" Kazuichi cheered.

"Come on, everyone! Stretch those arms!" Nekomaru called out. "Run five laps around the gym! Let's go."

"Where are the guns, by the way?" Ryota inquired. "And the targets?"

"I'll bring them out later. Just do your warm-ups first... Oh, hey." Hajime watched one of Gundham's hamsters go to his side. The cute grey and white hamster started hissing. "What did I do to you?"

"It seemed the simulation will be difficult," Tanaka warned them, holding his hand out for Jum-P to return. "Mirage Golden Hawk Jum-P is never wrong in his decisions!"

"It's not like Mahiru-nee, and I will get a simulation test," Hiyoko ran alongside Mahiru. "Maybe that ugly bitch will experience it?"

"I'm sorry!" Mikan cried, never knowing the reason the dancer insults her was due to her timid nature. Peko stopped caring about failing to convince the duo. They keep reverting to old habits.

'I wonder...' Peko ran, unable to catch up to Izuru. She knew she'd take a simulation test. The Kuzuryu gang cooperates with the government whenever it is convenient. 'How difficult will this test be?'

Chapter Text

The Ultimate Imposter remembered meeting Hinata Hajime before. They met Hajime before they imitated Kizakura Koichi. They met Hajime at Freshness, probably on a Sunday. There were tons of people that day, and the impostor bought a ton of food. So, they chose to sit beside Hajime to eat.

"I should try that flavor next time..." was the first thing Hajime told him, looking away from his laptop and making eye contact with him. Wearing a student uniform from Kodaka High, the teenager smiled. "It must be good, right?"

They didn't say anything when Hajime said that. They merely nodded, eating the latest burger on the menu. They didn't know what to say in this situation. They could have made Hajime their first friend, but what if he asked who they were? Would Hajime believe them?

Their parents abandoned them since birth.

No one wanted to take them in or associate with them.

That they had nothing unless...

They lie.

They pretend to be someone else

just to feel like they belong in this world.

That they exist...

All they wanted was a normal life. He... She? What are they? They wanted to be something to someone.

However, they were born with nothing and with no one. That's why they're always moving. They needed to find meaning to their existence. They wanted to exist, yet everyone ignored them until they became someone else. Sadly, they don't know how to get that normalcy without being someone else. It was easy to be someone else. Unlike them, people had something. Unlike them, people were acknowledged as someone.

When Hajime stood up after an hour, they did nothing... Even when they wanted to do something. They were afraid. They weren't wearing a disguise that day. They were themselves. They were no one, and Hajime chose to talk to them. That didn't happen before. People were too focused on their lives to speak to them.

They got the sudden urge to go to school, but what school? What school didn't need identification? What school wouldn't judge his empty past? They didn't know. However, they wanted to make friends. They also wanted to eat more food. They needed a place to rest while they figure out what to do next.

"Now that you know I work under the government, I'm expecting you all to cooperate on the tasks assigned." Hajime finally ended the recap. "Hinata Hajime, your resident miracle worker."

It was their final year in this school when they met Hajime again. Their friend, Mitarai Ryota, felt indebted to the reserve student. If Ryota hadn't met Hajime, maybe the Reserve Department wouldn't be here anymore. They wondered if Hajime would recognize who they were if they dropped the disguise. They didn't want to risk it.

However...

Chapter Text

Saionji Hiyoko felt the simulation was like when she was at home... Except for the fact, every movement and word she says will be scrutinized. She wanted to argue, but this reserve student was just one of the judges. To be specific, he was filling out a grading sheet Yukizome-sensei gave him.

If Hajime had it his way, she would have a higher grade than the threshold score!

"Hey Henry," Akane mistook Hajime's name again, stuffing her mock exam grade in her pocket.

Due to the fact this was in a simulation, three judges are criticizing their results. There was the machine that dealt with the technicalities. Then, there was Hajime and Kizakura-sensei. While the guy sucked in general for being a drunkard, the Ultimate Scout is known to notice any variation in a single glance. It was why Kizakura-sensei was the one who recruited those with talent, being able to recognize the accelerated growth regardless the fame or experience.  It was also why Kizakura-sensei got banned to be a judge because students kept giving him drinks.

"What exam are you going to take?" The Ultimate Gymnast placed a hand on her hip. "Other than the handwritten test."

"A check-up test?" Hajime examined the alcohol Kizakura-sensei gave him for his uncle.

"Man. That sucks..." Akane did spend quite a lot of time when they all came over to get a check-up. The gymnast didn't seem to care if she got bruises or cuts.

"I know," Hajime continued, "Now that my job here is done, I'll be-"

"Before you go, can you promise to cheer us on?" Sonia asked, still holding her paper. "I'm sure Nanami-san would appreciate your presence!"

"Sonia-san!" Chiaki pushed the princess' shoulder, embarrassed.

"YEAH! You gotta come, Hajime-chan!" Ibuki cheered, "Chiaki-chan needs you!"

"We're scheduled in the morning, so write that down," Teruteru told the confused brunette.

"Guys!" Chiaki cried, suddenly betrayed by her classmates. "And I thought we're rivals?" 

"Rivals?" Hajime raised an eyebrow.

"It's nothing," Peko reassured.

"Hm..." Hiyoko glanced to the side, seeing Izuru, Nagito, Fuyuhiko, Mitarai, and Kazuichi talking about the prototype simulation program.  Boys will be boys.  Mahiru went to search for Nekomaru, who hadn't come back after receiving a call. 'What's taking Mahiru-nee so long?'

"Calm yourselves, my generals..." Meanwhile, the chūnibyō is tending to his hamsters. It's barely been an hour, and those guys are crying a river... The hamsters are kinda cute.

"If you say so..." Hajime smiled uneasily, "Though, I might not even be allowed to enter the stadium. The school already reserved the slots to their VIPs."

*bam!*

"Hinata!" Mahiru pushed the doors open, outrunning Nekomaru. "What sick joke is this suppose to be?"

"Koizumi! Calm down!" Nekomaru called her out, but the Ultimate Photographer looked mad.

"What?" Hajime asked, and Mahiru shoved a document against the brunette. Hajime reviewed the document, "Oh."

"What do you mean,  OH ?" Mahiru asked in exasperation. "How could you do such a thing?!"

"Koizumi. Listen to me!" Nekomaru told the woman. Hiyoko covered her mouth, aware of how much her big sister sympathizes with adults. However, she didn't get why her friend would be so mad about something. "It was my fault for convincing Kizakura-sensei to take me here without notice from the admin. He had nothing to do with it."

"I'm lost..." Chiaki echoed the same sentiment as the rest of her classmates. Hiyoko glanced down, staring at a medical record. "Can someone explain?"

"Some jerk forged Nidai's death certificate." Mahiru was mad. Both Nekomaru and Hajime shared glances. She didn't notice, continuing. "And Hinata was part of it."

"Death..." Nagito repeated, glancing back at Nekomaru then back at Mahiru. "He looks pretty healthy to me."

"I know!" Mahiru agreed. "But they somehow managed to convince the admin to the point Principal Kirigiri alerted his parents. They rushed as fast as they could, only to find the morgue empty."

"?" Hiyoko noticed Hajime already halfway by the door. The Ultimate Traditional Dancer stared at her classmates. They're talking to each other about something.

"Is that even possible, Mikan-chan?" Ibuki wondered.

"I doubt it." Mikan shook her head. "The school takes health and security very seriously. "

"But it happened," Peko pointed out. "That means it can be done."

"No-no-no! The school would never do such a thing!" Mikan explained. "Death of an Ultimate is a serious thing for them. It's why the school has emergency first aid on each floor."

"What's with that look?" Fuyuhiko nudged Nagito. "Before you start, it ain't your fuckin' fault."

"But I haven't experienced any bad luck for the past 12 hours," Nagito explained. "How else is this oddity happening?"

"As long as I don't get run over by a truck, we're okay," Kazuichi reassured in his pathetic way, finally looking away from the computer.

"Calm down, Koizumi-san." Mitarai had to come over to assist Nekomaru to calm their resident mom down. Izuru was examining the death certificate, curious. "Judging from his expression, he didn't know it either."

"Still." Mahiru clutched her fists.

"Let's beat him up, then~" Hiyoko walked over to her side, hugging her big sister. She knew how much Mahiru envied students with caring parents. Mahiru never considered her father a decent guy, and her mother was always overseas to earn a living.

"That wouldn't prove a point, Hiyoko-chan..." Mahiru sighed, but she smiled at her. At least she's feeling better.
 

"Planning to escape from us, mortal?" Gundham asked, and Hiyoko turned her head to see Hajime by the door.

"It's not an escape when I have to go." Hajime corrected, unable to push the door. "I know you sent your four hamsters to push against my momentum, but this is ridiculous!"

"Ha! Underestimating my generals will be your downfall!" Gundham even did a strange pose. Hiyoko let go of Mahiru, snickering at Hajime's inability to push the door because of 4 rodents. Hajime also looked tired of this shit.  Go figure.  Gundham warned, "Now then, reveal yourself! What are you?!"

"I already gave you guys the answer," Hajime stopped pushing, sliding the door like... Wait. That's not how the door works- It's opening?

"I'm one of the government agents monitoring something controversial in this school." Hajime avoided stepping on the hamsters, holding two bottles of alcohol  that can't be right!  Hajime also noticed his hands were full, "Ah..."

"Everyone! Before you maul Hinata-kun oh there you are," Yukizome-sensei noticed Hajime carrying two bottles of alcohol. "Why do you have those?"

"You can have one," Hajime offered the other bottle to her. Hiyoko looked back, missing Mahiru's conversation with Nekomaru. Izuru's talking with Nagito. Those weirdos are planning something again.

"Huh-Hey! Get back here!" Yukizome accepted the bottle but realized the brunette was escaping as well. However, their homeroom teacher must have noticed them looking confused and chose to stay instead.

"I contacted Hinata-kun's uncle recently." Yukizome closed the door, looking at the door strangely as she slid it close.

"I'm sure everyone noticed this, but I hope all of you won't treat him differently." Looking back at them, their teacher continued. "Hinata-kun... He wasn't kidding when he said he was a miracle worker."

Chapter Text

When Sonia first caught sight of her best friend and a male reserve student by the fountain, she didn't want to interrupt their moment, much less tease her friend on a possible misunderstanding. Having Hinata Hajime as a substitute teacher made Sonia learn more about this friend-to-lover trope. As stated in her reference material, one of the parties usually hides a secret from the other.  Unfortunately, the secret is something she cannot simply ignore.  Hajime may be the key to solving one of her kingdom's controversial issues-

"Ah?! How did I... End up... here?" Sonia opened the door, only to stumble right back where she first began. The Ultimate Princess blinked, looking behind her. She was supposed to enter the lounge on the ground floor, so how did she end up on the third floor?

"Hey..." Chiaki looked up from her game girl, lazily smiling back at her.

"Y-you're still holding the basket? M-maybe... He doesn't want to be found?" Mikan offered, sitting beside Peko as the latter assisted Fuyuhiko in reviewing something. Sonia had done as much as she could to help her fellow leader. Thus, she has faith that the Ultimate Yakuza will succeed.

"How about jumping off the balcony?" Izuru offered, answering the homework sent to him by his guardians. Sonia knew the Ultimate would've joined her if he had no work. They both have limited time to travel and interact with others as students.

"Don't listen to him. There isn't anything to cushion the fall. You'll get injured." Mahiru explained, checking her camera while Hiyoko drew something beside her. It was nighttime, and she considered it improper for a princess to jump off the third floor.

"There is a koi pond, but I highly advise not doing that!" Nekomaru rests his arms on the balcony. "Other than Kamukura, Pekoyama, Owari, and I, none of you guys are ready for the jump."

"I mean, I could visit Harvey, but where is he?" Akane stretched her legs as she lay on her bed. "He could be anywhere in this hotel, and I wouldn't know better."

"The goal is to head towards the Lounge, Owari-san. Hanamura-san did see him in that area ten minutes ago." Sonia explained, unsure what to do next. When she learned Hajime was still in the hotel, she thought it would take minutes to visit him. 'What wishful thinking!'

"And he should be there since Kizakura-sensei invited him to play mahjong," Teruteru nodded, aware of how long it takes for people to remain in a room. It's a terrifying but surprising ability of the Ultimate Cook to memorize the habits and preferences of his customers. Sonia will take note of it on potential assassination or diplomatic meetings.

"Not gonna lie, but Hajime-chan did give us warning signs of being a tsuntsun." Ibuki twirled her pen in her fingers, crafting a song for the incoming test. "How about we start a concert until he's got no choice but to come up and shut us up?!"

"How about bringing him kusamochi?" Ryota advised, the Ultimate Animator finally speaking up after so long. Sonia took note of everything, wishing to find the truth. Ryota did hang out with Hajime the most very recently. Surely, he stayed quiet to protect their friend. "He likes kusamochi."

"I agree with the scribe," Gundham spoke as well, feeding his hamsters while a crow rests on his shoulder. "Despite his ability to defy the natural order, Hajime is still a human with desires."

"If that is the only remedy available..." Sonia glanced at Teruteru, the latter already checking the fridge. On the first day of their summer trip, the Ultimate Cook requested the staff to give their room another fridge for his ingredients.

"Sorry, doll. I'll need to restock tomorrow," Teruteru shook his head, closing the door.

"What luck! I have kusamochi," Nagito was looking into his bag, pulling out a pack of kusamochi.

"Thank you, Komaeda-san!" Sonia clapped her hands, surprised and relieved one of her classmates had bought the dessert.

"Can I come with you, Sonia-san?" Kazuichi asked, having finished modifying a pocket watch Izuru bought into an engine... of sorts. "S-so you won't feel lonely."

"Why would the Dark queen require companionship on a temporal journey?" Gundham raised an eyebrow. Fuyuhiko nudged and whispered the mechanic's plan, making the Ultimate Animal Breeder scoff. "I see... How naive."

"My apologies, Souda-san, but I wish to speak to him on confidential matters," Sonia walked forward to accept the packet from her friend, hugging the kusamochi alongside the basket of baked sweets the chef gave her.

"O-oh... Be careful then." Kazuichi slumped back to his seat. Izuru closed his laptop, resting his back on the wall. Sonia could ask what made her classmate sad, but she needed to hurry. She doesn't want to be berated by the hall monitors for walking around during curfew.

"Wish me luck!" Sonia smiled, walking out to try once more.
 

...

'Is this it?' Sonia slowly slid the door, perking up when she reached the lounge.

"What is it, Nevermind?" Hajime asked, closing a folder that appeared to be given to him by the school. "Sorry about a while ago, I had to talk to some guys, and your presence would ruin the negotiation."

"That is all right, Hinata-san! I'm glad to see you are still here." Sliding the door closed behind her, the princess entered the room with the goods. "I have brought you gifts from our class."

"Hmm? How about you give them to your teachers?" Hajime sighed, leaning back against the sofa. "For some reason, your teachers are encountering accidents regardless of the time."

"Is that so?" Sonia went over to sit down on the chair opposite the student. "What does the admin propose?"

"Just because they got into an accident doesn't mean they're dead," Hajime scratched his cheek, still staring at the emblem of Hope's Peak Academy embellished on the folder. "Unfortunately, your class has a bad name around the staff. It's deterring applicants and convincing the current teachers to refuse the offer."

"The best proposal on the table is that Yukizome-sensei teach all the subjects until the teachers are ready to handle the... obstacles," Hajime glanced at the basket she placed on the table but made no move. "Unfortunately, this is your last year, so that suggestion of training your teachers got thrown out of the window. Yukizome-sensei accepted the task of taking care of you a lot but will need some time to master all the subjects. The school does have a curriculum to follow, changing it to fit international standards."

"In short, you will be teaching us again, yes?" Sonia smiled, and Hajime crossed his arms.

"Don't get the wrong idea. Your teacher has agreed to work with the government to understand the school. It's a give and take.." Hajime refused to look in her direction, glaring at the garden outside. "Besides, Kizakura-sensei will also be teaching. I'll only be taking one class."

"Nanami-san will be pleased," Sonia noticed his antenna twitch... With a face lacking distinguishing characteristics and uncanny abilities, Hinata Hajime must be the chosen one!

"Whatever! Why are you here?" Hajime changed the topic out of embarrassment. "Is it drama? Cults?"

"I'd like to discuss the Makangos." Sonia began.

"The nearly extinct animal found exclusively in your kingdom?" Hajime tilted his head.

"Yes!" Sonia nodded eagerly. "Considering they develop according to emotion, I had planned on harnessing the energy they release in this state. Unfortunately, it is difficult to pinpoint the exact state without limiting their freedom."

"Then you should be talking to Tanaka," Hajime opened the bag of kusamochi. "I don't know about animal breeding or animal care, so you'll need to come to me with a plan."

"I would like you to help me find the Golden Makango," Sonia clenched her hands as she placed them on her knees, staring at the confused brunette. "The last time it was captured was 50 years ago. I need to find the golden Makango before I am wed with my significant other."

"Ah," Hajime already caught on to what could happen to the rare species. "We have time then."

"My father is... Not in a good state," Sonia knew how important it is for her people to see their rulers, finding them as a source of inspiration. Sonia had the duty to redirect the attention back to her whenever her parents committed any shortcomings. It is why she had to consume a Skong at a relatively young age, taking her role as princess very seriously compared to her peers. By entering the political sphere, she understood her position could not prevent the excessive poaching of these beloved creatures. She could not stop her people from selling their inclusive animals into the black market because foreigners believed in their so-called medical value.

"You could abolish the law?" Hajime suggested, taking a bite of the dessert. "Then again, that would cause a fuss."

"Unfortunately, yes." Sonia shook her head. "There is also the fact that my people have grown used to our traditions. Sudden change will not benefit them."

"Hm..." Hajime thought about it. "But finding it would mean you should get ready to marry someone, right?"

"Yes," Sonia has rejected suitors in the past, but if it is for her country...

"Let's start with small steps..." Hajime glanced back at the garden. "I can help you with your Makango dilemma, but it would be best to let the rare Makango come to you naturally. Based on the books gifted to your class, your dad has no plans relinquishing the throne until all his projects are done."

"That is... true," Sonia exhaled. Her father is a stubborn man, sometimes using force when his plans are not readily accepted. Her status as the princess is a mixture of a diplomat, vice president, and prime minister, the medium among the monarchy, the aristocrats, and common folks.

"Trust me. You don't want to be queen just yet. The world is currently experiencing a-" Hajime paused halfway when the glass door was slid open. Sonia looked away from the table to see Izuru and Akane walk inside the room.

"Harold!" Akane mistakes Hajime's name for the third time today, yet the latter always forgives her. "We got you more food!"

"Is it kusamochi?" Hajime is already finished with the kusamochi, starting to devour the curry buns.

"Sakura mochi," Izuru presented a beautiful display of-

"!!!" Hajime moved back with a disgusted expression.

"Freshly made with love..." The Ultimate Hope chose to ignore Hajime's disdain, walking forward with the nicely done confectionary. "Now, eat it."

"Put that abomination away from me!!!" Hajime scooted further away, hissing. Sonia covered her mouth, smiling as she tilted her head. For someone capable of changing destiny, Hajime did not act like it.

Chapter Text

Akane Owari expected the physical exams to come her way. However, she is glad Yukizome and Kizakura prepped them for a surprise academic test on the last few days before the practical exam.  Hajime couldn't help because he was busy cramming his exams.  The Reserve Course did have a week-long exam. Akane remembered his schedule because they had a lot of free time the week before their practical exams.

"There you are!" Akane ran over to the fatigue brunette, offering one of the snacks she snuck before entering the gym. "What took ya so long?"

"Cramming," Hajime accepted the token, following her to meet with her classmates. According to Chiaki's dad, Hajime was tasked to compile the reports of his colleagues on Izuru. Unfortunately, all of the said colleagues got into an accident of some sort. Akane wasn't big on the details, but her classmates did look at Izuru and Nagito. Because of that, Hajime trudged five different hospitals to receive the reports. "How was it?"

"Hmm... Not hard?" Akane picked at her ear. While some were featured on TV, some took their test elsewhere. Akane hadn't seen Nagito or Izuru until after lunch, so she didn't know how the school or anyone else graded them. "I got papers, but I'll let Coach handle that!"

"Glad you have a manager," Hajime opened the bag of chips.

"Hajime," the man speaking with the principal turned to their direction. Akane didn't trust the guy at all. He was one of the judges in the public sector, always giving the lowest grade regardless of the individual.  Yuto told her the adult hates Ultimates, so it made sense he'd try to fail them . Chiaki's dad told them the guy was Hajime's uncle.

"I should've given him more alcohol..." Hajime muttered under his breath. It seemed Hajime also hates his uncle. Hajime asked, "Shouldn't you be patrolling by now?"

"Maybe if someone followed instructions, I wouldn't be here." The man glared at Hajime, but all Akane heard was the crunch of chips. Unlike the school, the government takes everything seriously. That also includes the actions of their members, which brought them back to Nekomaru's situation. Akane didn't understand why Nekomaru's parents demanded compensation for emotional damage, but whatever. The man sighed, "I've discussed with the Steering Committee recently and-"

"I refuse," Hajime replied after swallowing his chips. "I just took a week-long exam and crammed a bunch of reports. Why would I take another test?"

"It won't take much of your time," Principal Kirigiri reassured, but Akane wasn't sure how they'd test Hajime either. Chiaki's dad came over to support them in Hajime's stead, embarrassing Chiaki by telling them about her junior high days. When Chiaki asked about Hajime, the jolly guy stated Hajime was the part of the team because everyone in the office wasn't taking care of themselves. Hajime matured too quickly for his age, probably the reason why he stopped fighting back.  Cowardly or hopeless?

"Fine. I agree if everyone can watch my examination," Hajime conditioned, speaking once more once Kirigiri pulled out his phone. "...Which the scientists will refuse. Besides, what's the point of a title when I'm already graduating in the reserve course? Nothing. Anyways, have we tried recruiting Hagakure? Did you give him the test? I'd like to know my fortune too with a discount."

"No, the yakuza wants his head after graduation," The uncle told the brunette off as Kirigiri spoke with the examiners. "At least we have Kamishiro applying for the job."

"His name doesn't ring a bell. What about Class 77-B?" Hajime inquired, still following Akane as they headed to their class. The uncle also began to move towards their general direction, letting the principal follow them. Akane walked faster to reach her friends first, getting tired of the adult talk. The new school building had a lot of rooms compared to the old one. Akane wasn't good with memory layouts, but she knew her gym.

"... You're going to test Komaeda," The uncle stated. "Considering we have no idea how to test his luck and what point would luck have for our agency."

"Fair," Hajime took another bite of wasabi potato chips. Ryota suggested the brand, and Akane found it fun to try. "He has a gun, right?"

"I highly doubt fighting would trigger his luck," Principal Kirigiri spoke up, but maybe Hajime has the right idea. If she was a boring office worker, all she had to do was write and take note of stuff. Who needed luck there? Now, if she were a police officer, then fighting would be a great way to test if she's qualified.

"Wait. This school allows their students to have weapons?" The police officer wondered, but all Hajime did was eat some more chips.

"No!" Kirigiri defended, but there was the unspoken  not anymore  which Hajime and Akane knew. The school was lenient on their students unless given enough suspicion.

"Guys! We're here!" Akane finally found her classmates, pushing the door. 'Huh? Where did the rest of them go?'

"Are you sure about this?" Nagito asked, holding a gun in his hand. Several feet away from him would be Hajime. They were going to have a test to increase Nagito's other option after graduation. Chiaki's dad was better at speaking with others, telling Principal Kirigiri that the work supplied for the Ultimates won't take most of his time. "What if I hurt you?"

"When did you start caring about me?" Hajime frowned, placing one hand on his hip as they waited for everyone to give them space. Akane didn't see any weapon on Hajime's person, so she wasn't sure what type of fight this was going to be. "Whatever. As you know, there are several Ultimates who go against the government from time to time. Usually, the response is to kill them without alerting the media."

"?!" Nagito seemed surprised(?) Akane doesn't get why. It was a dog-eat-dog world outside.  Survival to the fittest.  Hope's Peak Academy was like a dream come true. She wouldn't have met amazing people if she didn't enroll in this school. That didn't mean she saw the world in a different light. She just knew a lot more than she should.

"Then prime minister Ishimaru exempted capital punishment towards Ultimates for a time, considering those with talent to be national treasures and all that BS," Hajime shrugged. "Unfortunately, when most of society consists of talentless people... Things can get a little biased. Ultimates are also not the smartest people in the block."

"What are you trying to tell me?" Nagito grimaced, denying the possibility. Akane wasn't against killing if it was self-defense, but she guessed she would kill people to save her loved ones if need be.

"For the next ten minutes, I'm going to do my best and kill everyone," Hajime ignored the question. "You, on the other hand, will use your luck to stop me. Ultimates are hard to capture and difficult to kill. Your luck should make it easy for you or your partner to succeed on the mission. If you can prove to my colleagues that you can control your talent in some form, then you are a valuable asset."

"H-hey... How..." Kazuichi looked at the adults, but Akane could feel something was going to happen. "Is Hinata going to do that?"

"I thought he's still sick with the despair disease?" Chiaki's dad asked Hajime's uncle. "Wouldn't that be a bad thing? What if he doesn't revive us because he doesn't feel like it?"

"Don't worry. The most damaging thing he could do is erase recent memories-" Hajime's uncle stopped halfway. "We'll rely on the CCTV."

"Wait. We're going to die?" Kazuichi yelled. Akane looked at her classmates. There was Chiaki, her, Kazuichi, and Mikan. Everyone else, according to Chiaki, was outside partaking in the buffet.

"B-but Hinata-kun doesn't have a weapon, so we should be fine," Mikan stuttered, fiddling with the hem of her skirt.

"Chiaki. You have to keep your game girl for now," Chiaki's dad explained, already ready to run(?) Akane didn't need to be told twice. She knew a fight was about to commence.

"HEY!" From the other side of the gym, Ibuki was beating the door. "WHO LOCKED THE DOORS?!"

"Ready?" Hajime asked, and Chiaki quickly kept her game girl in her bag. The air in the gym has turned cold. It began to rain outside. Akane can't hear what came next. The raindrops are hitting the roof too loudly. What she did see was Nagito raised his gun and, without doubt, shot Hajime.
 

*!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!*

"?!" Akane grabbed Kazuichi before the mechanic got shot by bullets. As if Hajime prepared for this very event, various portions of the walls around the gym suddenly opened up to reveal guns to shoot at the center stage. There would be stray bullets hitting the walls, bouncing to potentially kill them off.  Hajime did warn them.  Hajime managed to deflect the attack with a hidden blade while Nagito managed to get lucky and evade all the bullets.

"Don't fall!" Hajime warned them just in time as she watched Mikan fall from the hole. Akane also lost balance, having one of her legs stepping on a new hole formed. However, she adjusted her position just in time to not fall to her doom. She gritted her teeth when shards of glass rained down on them, clinging against the edge and slowly getting back up.

*CLICK* The guns attached to the wall are reloading. Akane leaped out and scanned her surrounding, seeing Principal Kirigiri on the ground with a bleeding leg. Chiaki had used her bag to avoid a bullet, but the look of panic on her face said it all. Kazuichi was screaming at the slumped body of Hajime's uncle while Chiaki's dad was sweating badly.

"Stay calm, everyone! He likes patterns," Chiaki's dad told it more to himself than to everyone else. Akane took a second to register what he meant before she realized the pitfalls opened up once more. The guns shoot and reload. The pitfalls open from odd to even. The lights and ceiling itself are eventually going to all breakdown. Akane could see the patterns.

"Like hell we are!" Akane was mad at Hajime, but a part of her was excited about the test. While the guns reload, Akane almost fell in a hole because of the sudden chains falling from above. It was a distraction, making it difficult to evade the bullets but useful to avoid a sudden fall- 'What's this liquid dripping down on them- It's Poison?!'

Chapter Text

Today is the day Mitarai Ryota meets his classmates. His friend convinced him to try, especially when it was the final year of high school. Ryota isn't sure who convinced the Ultimate Imposter, but he wants to thank the person. Of course, a lot of their classmates were surprised at the revelation. Yes, they took quite a while in the buffet area talking about the sheer mind-blowing experience, but Yukizome-sensei had to be the first to accept him to the class before everyone went back to being their quirky selves. The Ultimate Animator did hear all the tales from Sagishi.

*!!!!!*

"We can't seem to open the door," Mahiru frowned as Nekomaru, Fuyuhiko, and Peko beat down the door. "I don't want to believe it, but maybe Tanaka's right?"

"Of course, the Supreme General is right! Whoever is behind this door has generated a forcefield in preventing our entrance!" Gundham came back from the other side, having brought Sonia, Izuru, and Yukizome-sensei to break the alternate door.

'I mean... That's not how wood bends either...' Ryota thought, staring at the door and the splinters etched out. When Peko cut down the door, the animator noted the door seemed to have increased its density. When they peak inside, all they see is darkness. 'But Nanami-san, Mikan-san, Kazuichi-san and Komaeda-san are in there!'

"You guys stay right here. I'll call Sakakura-kun," Yukizome-sensei told them before leaving the class. They heard another series of explosions. Glass shards, or was it tile shards crashing down the floors? Ryota paid attention to the noise, concluding some fight had taken place- He vividly heard the noise of chains rattling in the air.

"W-what is going on in there?" Ryota stuttered, concerned and rightfully anxious at what lies beyond the door. There are too many things happening in that room. He also can't ignore the numerous guns shooting and reloading. Listening to the noise longer, Ryota noticed it was starting to sound like an OST. Ryota is very confused why someone would use guns to make a soundtrack.

"We'll have to destroy the door if we want to find out!" Nekomaru tried to pull the door apart. When he plucked the large part of the wood, Ryota saw more wood. "YOU GOTTA BE SHITTING WITH ME?!"

"I hope nothing bad is happening in there..." Sonia held her hands together. No one can reassure the woman, not when they hear gunshots and explosions.

"All we can do is wait," Fuyuhiko crossed his arms, leaning against the wall. If guns and blades don't make a single mark except giving them more wood, then there's nothing they can do. Hiyoko was standing there, eating Sakura mochi, while Mahiru texted any of their classmates in the room.

"I think I heard Principal Kirigiri scream in there?!" Ibuki had her ears pressed against the wall. Ryota knew all the rooms in the gym were big echo chambers, so hearing the noise lessen, even if quite a bit, would mean the surface had been modified recently.

"That would mean Hinata is inside the room," Sagishi noted, having brought food from the buffet with him. Teruteru is also resting on the wall, tired from cooking food.  The Ultimate Cook was ecstatic to see so many customers, but the emotion changed to dread because of the large number of people that never seemed to stop entering at the time.

"Don't," Peko pulled Izuru away before the Ultimate Hope burned down the door. While Mitarai understood Izuru's logic, the door being wood and everything else cement with a water system above them, Izuru could scare the other students once all the sprinklers activate on their floor. The scent of smoke might also attract curious students to their area.

It took ten minutes before Yukizome-sensei brought the head of the security guard, opening the extremely beaten-up door to reveal...

"What the hell happened here?!" Sakakura Juzo pushed the door to see bullets, glass shards, chains, and broken tiles everywhere. Nagito was covered in pink liquid, stepping a reserve student's stomach and holding a gun to-*click*

"Are you kidding with me?" The brunette asked, his eyes closed as he waited for the shot.

"If I had another bullet, I would gladly shoot you, Hinata-kun.." Nagito promised, but he didn't have another bullet.

"Hinata-kun?" Ryota knew this person, taking a step back. Hinata Hajime was the teen who visited him during the Parade, persuading him to get out and breathe some fresh air. He was detained by Ikusaba Mukuro and Tsumiki Mikan out of orders from Enoshima Junko. He agreed to head out because he wanted to meet Sagishi again. If he hadn't gone out with Hajime, the government wouldn't have interfered.
 

"Urgh...." Chiaki steadily sat up, wiping pink liquid from her head. She also coughed some pink? Ryota needed to check on the others. Chiaki looked like a casualty of a painful paintball fight. "So this is what it feels like to get shot on the head..."

"Never again..." Chiaki's dad groaned, waking up and trying to get out of the chains he entangled himself. Hajime's scary uncle was sleeping on the ground, covered in pink.

"Oh man~ That was fun!" Akane laughed, having both hands on her hips, being another survivor of the pink paintball fight. Kazuichi was clinging onto Akane, being the least attacked in the team. "How about we play next, Hajime?!"

"I think I peed just now..." Kazuichi may have whispered this, but Ryota can read lip movement. Whether that be a curse or a blessing, Ryota will never know.

"KKKIIIYAAAA~!" Mikan's voice made Ryota look up to see Mikan fall from the ceiling, landing on a conveniently placed cushion. The nurse bounced and landed on the pink floor. No one was spared with the pink liquid. "ACK!"
 

*THUD!*

"Eh?" Ryota looked back to see Nagito on the floor because Hajime tugged him to sit up. The entire gym was a pink mess. Hell! Principal Kirigiri hasn't uttered a single word for the entire period. The principal himself had pink stains on his leg and arm, clutching said pink-stained arm as if there was an injury.

"..." Hajime sat up, only to slump back to the floor. "Komaeda. Give me the gun. My head hurts."

"There are no bullets," Nagito told him off, also lying on the floor and panting from the intense exercise. Nagito did look pretty scrawny like him, but what exactly happened here. Ryota stared down at his feet while his classmates went forward.

"Just give it to me," Hajime sighed. "A gun always solves everything."

"No. Leave my gun alone," Nagito refused.

'The floor looks ready to collapse...' Ryota also picked up one of the pink-stained bullets, feeling the shell. 'These are real. The room even smells like blood, but it's pink.'

'No! It can't be blood. This is too much blood, right?' Ryota didn't know. He was squeamish when it came to gore. Ryota went forward, scanning the walls. 'Everything seems to be okay except...'

'The ceiling?' Ryota noticed there were some tiles and lights broken from something. 'Wait. Then, where did all these chains come from? And, where did all the bullets come from?'

"Did something happen?" Yukizome-sensei rushed to the principal, followed by Juzo scanning the area like a bloodhound. No one can deny the scent of blood and bullets. It was too obvious. The pink blood and the clean walls (except for Chiaki's dad) were a distraction. The explosions can't just be from the ceiling... Right? The floor looked ready to crumble, but it could still maintain its weight.  What's going on?

"Yukizome-san..." Principal Kirigiri finally spoke up. Their classmates are already speaking with the others. Ryota stayed afar to watch everyone. The principal continued, "Nothing out of the ordinary."

"...BS," Juzo muttered under his breath. The girls have gathered around Chiaki and Akane. Fuyuhiko's half-heartedly insulting Kazuichi to get him to stop shaking.

"Kamukura-kun?!" Nagito's voice made Ryota look at the sound, seeing Izuru and Gundham by Nagito and Hajime's side. Izuru took the gun, examining it.

"Yes! Kamukura. Give me the gun," Hajime requested.

"... Beg," Izuru demanded, letting Gundham unwrap his scarf to reveal a lot of hamsters. Ryota had to rub his eye with his free hand as the Ultimate Animal Breeder began to place his hamsters on top of Hajime's chest.

 
"Can I please have the gun?" Hajime asked, and Izuru kept the gun. "No! Wait! Kamukura! I thought we had something!"

"..." Izuru stared at Hajime, surprising even Ryota when the Ultimate Hope asked. "How so?"

"Don't listen to him, dark one," Gundham told Izuru, still pouring hamsters to bury Hajime. Ryota was amazed at how many hamsters his classmate hid in his scarf. "He deserves proper judgment."

"Heavy..." Hajime huffed, getting half-buried by hamsters.

"Yeah... This is a norm," Sagishi almost caused him to slip through the pink, standing beside him as he watched the scenery. "They're not bad. Don't you agree?"

"... Yeah," Ryota smiled back. 'They're weird... But I don't mind.'

Chapter Text

Yukizome Chisa wasn't sure what happened on the pink blood incident, but investigating the issue would create conflict with the government. It was bad enough she failed to protect one of her students, but she almost lost her students to the mastermind. She asked Juzo if he knew anything else about Hajime, but the guy only remarked that the teen gets bullied a lot by his peers.  Hajime's class was protective over the brunette, but the brunette needed to investigate the school based on his uncle's orders.  Chisa knew she had to look into Hajime because the Principal requested her to do something.

"This is... Embarrassing..." Ryota covered his face as he sat on the lap of the Ultimate Imposter. Chisa requested Ryota and Hajime to come this Sunday for their first class. She needed to get a feel for how she should tackle the topic of  Hope . Surprisingly, Sagi-shi and Chiaki heard about it and decided to tag along. Chisa isn't sure what happened, but now all of her students are in the classroom.

"Can we do this some other time?" Hajime sat at the edge of Chiaki's chair. Unlike Ryota, who brought a tablet, the brunette carried a notepad. Hajime was also the last to enter the classroom. Hajime chose the most familiar person to share seats with - Chiaki.

"It won't be long," Chisa reassured, setting up the PowerPoint for both students to view. She spent three days compiling data about the concept, ready to discuss and expand her coverage.

"By the way... Why are you sharing seats with Nanami, Hinata?" Nekomaru asked to his left, observing Chiaki and Hajime sitting almost back to back.

"I mean... Why not?" Hajime asked in turn. Chisa looked away from her laptop, seeing Hajime glance over Chiaki's shoulder. "Isn't that your fifth replay?"

"It's a classic," Chiaki leaned against Hajime.

"Because she's a girl," Mahiru pointed out, snapping shots for their class album. "It's strange."

"Well... Hinata-kun can sit wherever he wants," Chiaki continued playing her game girl, unfazed with the situation.

'I wonder who'll make the first move?' Chisa wished she could help, but let the two sit together would be too inappropriate in their classroom setting. Chisa coughed, "Hinata-kun. I'm sorry, but I believe you'll have to change seats."

"... All right. Can I sit beside Hanamura?" Hajime asked. Before the Ultimate Cook can respond, the Ultimate Mechanic beat him to it.

"No, because he's Hanamura," Kazuichi explained.

"Excusez-Moi?" Teruteru squinted at the mechanic.

"Remember the plan! If not Nanami, Komaeda," Kazuichi hushed, and the Ultimate Cook gasped.

"You're right, absolutely right!" Teruteru nodded. "Komaeda is yours."

"Am I missing something?" Nagito asked, having heard his name.

"I was not aware Hanamura-san is a gender," Sonia covered her mouth. "What are the qualifications?"

"I dunno about you, but only Sagi-chan can do that!" Ibuki proclaimed.

"Gender is a fluid- Wait, what?" Sagi-shi stopped halfway. Ryota chuckled while Ibuki grinned triumphantly.

"How about Komaeda-kun?" Chisa offered, but Hajime scoffed. Given her students will graduate soon, Chisa worried about Nagito the most. Nagito's luck prevented him from cooking and performing basic tasks. Hajime should be able to teach Nagito how to cope with the latter's luck, having taken care of Chiaki and Izuru successively.

"No thanks. That guy rubs me the wrong way," Hajime made a couple of heads turn in his direction. It seemed the brunette didn't want to deal with Nagito. Chisa wondered what happened between the two.

"What a shame..." Nagito said this, taking note of his classmate's reaction. It seemed half of them were in with the plan-

"Hinata may sit beside me. I do not mind," Izuru offered, and Chisa counted a total of ten are in on the plan. They all have that confused expression.

"Do not accept the invitation, mortal! The dark one has powers beyond your comprehension," Gundham advised from a distance. Her colleagues said she should help him adjust, but that would alter his character.

"I'm afraid to admit it, but don't do it, Hinata..." Even Fuyuhiko was in on the plan. "Take your chance with Komaeda. Smack the albino if you have to."

"Don't do that!" Nagito denied while Hajime laughed at the suggestion.

"B-but Komaeda-kun isn't s-so bad, H-Hinata-kun!" Mikan defended, holding her hands together. Chisa can also see Hajime staring at Izuru, but the latter tilted his head instead. Usually, Izuru would stay quiet. For him to speak up and offer... That's a sign of progress! Izuru's opening to others.

"How about Haji-nii takes your seat instead?" Hiyoko rests her cheek on the palm of her hand, staring at the blackboard.

"I-I mean if he wants to?" Mikan blushed, and Chisa also thought about it for some time. However, he has to sit with a guy. That would defeat the purpose of moving him away from Chiaki.

"Fine! I'll sit with Komaeda," Hajime huffed, standing up from his seat. Chisa looked back at Izuru, and the Ultimate Hope had plucked a sticky note stuck on his face a second prior. Chiaki's also staring at her seatmate. Something must have happened.

"I'm sorry, but there's no space for you-HEY!" Nagito declined, but Hajime sat on his lap. "You're heavy!"

"Maybe you should've thought twice about coming to a Sunday class?" Hajime and Nagito are arguing. "Why are we here again? All I know is that my uncle wants me to attend something..."

"You see? The Principal wanted me to teach Mitarai-kun and you about Hope," Chisa pressed her remote to reveal her first slide. "But to understand hope, we'll have to tackle despair."

...

"I'm sorry, but what?" Ryota might have spoken for the whole class. Chisa also noticed Nagito magically had popcorn at hand. Hajime was equally surprised where the Ultimate Lucky student got the food. The Ultimate Animator continued, "I highly doubt this will be useful to us."

"I don't know about that. I feel this is to assist your research in eradicating the Despair disease, Mitarai..." Hajime rests his arms on the table.  That's right . The government had commissioned Mitarai Ryota to create a program to rehabilitate the infected. "I don't know why the government wants me here, but I guess to ensure you're not going to get manipulated again."

"I know better!" Ryota defended himself, but Hajime chose to roll his eyes.

"So, this class is every Sunday?" Nagito inquired, and Chisa saw Hajime raising his hand slightly to make a cutting motion towards his neck.  Hajime doesn't want Nagito here.  Nagito was even beaming, "Free-for-all?"

"Oh god... I'm surprised he's able to keep it in..." Fuyuhiko remarked.

"Don't speak too soon..." Peko was texting on her phone. The swordswoman might be keeping contact with Natsumi from the other department.

"As long as there's free food, I'm in!" Akane stayed silent most of the time, having brought food to the classroom.  She was halfway done with her food even.

"All right! I thought hard about the introduction and decided to discuss our very own school!" Chisa switched her presentation to the next slide. She heard Izuru sigh but chose to ignore the Ultimate, who slumped on the table due to impending boredom. "This is because society has often placed Hope's Peak Academy as the place of Hope..."

...

"Stop shaking your leg, Komaeda..." Hajime told his seatmate off, drumming his finger on the table.

"Don't you think this is exciting, Hinata-kun?" Nagito murmured, and the brunette turned to face. "Surely, Yukizome-sensei will improve the hope in our class."

"Really? In one reality, everyone but two sections is dead-" Hajime mused, but Nagito didn't seem to like the statement. Hajime quickly rectified his sentence. "-Which is an unlikely scenario now due to the fact Mitarai alerted the authorities."

"..." Nagito remained quiet. Hajime looked back at the presentation. When Nagito spoke again, Hajime did his best not to flinch as he felt the other's breath close to his neck. "So, why do you believe Enoshima is the mastermind?"

"Hmm..." Hajime looked and saw the Ultimate Nurse look away from him. "Later."

Chapter Text

In the last week of classes for the month of December, Kizakura Koichi didn't expect Chisa to encounter an accident. He also didn't expect the newly hired teachers to get into separate accidents. This left him and Jin no choice but to persuade several Alumni to take over some of the classes.  Yes, they had spent the whole day calling people.

...

"How did you get up there?" Koichi wondered, looking up to see Hajime standing upside down. Because Jin was a very charismatic and friendly man, several police officers agreed to share their findings regarding the  Despair Disease . One Main Course student got infected with the Despair Disease, Tsumiki Mikan. When Hajime  cured the nurse, the brunette caught the virus in turn. "Normal people don't defy gravity."

"What if you're the one defying gravity, huh? Never thought of that, did you?" Hajime sassed in turn. Despite his average grades and looks, Hinata Hajime was recruited to the government for his ability to change constants.

"What delays your departure, Kizakura-sensei..." Gundham went out, also noticing the issue. Getting sick caused Hajime to unwillingly alter the original properties of nearby objects. Gundham inquired, "What sorcery have you committed this time, Hajime?"

"Hmm..." Hajime pondered. It was Koichi and Gundham who were on the ceiling. Hajime was on the floor. "Let me try something..."

"Is something wrong-?!" Sonia was walking out when the hallway tilted. Both Gundham and Sonia slid back into the classroom while Koichi grabbed onto the doorframe. Koichi saw Class 77-B students also sliding back into their classroom, making a ruckus.

"One more," Hajime warned, and Koichi fell on the floor. *BANG* The new floor now has broken ceiling lights, and the new ceiling has floor tiles. Strangely, the door location remains the same.

"Let me escort you inside," Koichi helped Hajime go inside the classroom, not wanting the other students to realize the culprit of the redesign. "I have a gift for you."

*Click* Once inside, Koichi closed the door just in case everything went topsy turvy again.

"Did something happen?" Mahiru wondered as Gundham refused to speak about the situation. "I mean, the news did warn of an incoming heavy snowstorm but not in our area."

"Dunno, but I saw Tanaka and Sonia-san get pushed back inside," Kazuichi explained, having convinced his friends (Fuyuhiko and Teruteru) to close the windows.

"Wait for it..." Koichi searched his bag, wanting to give something as a token of appreciation. "Here we go!"

"A mechanical butterfly..." Hajime watched Koichi twirl and let the electronic butterfly loose. "Why?"

"You've been too busy studying, handling your peers, and even being student-teacher that you've forgotten you're just a kid," Koichi explained. "I also noticed you like blue butterflies since I've checked your room... Then again, that could be your talent."

"Did I hear talent?!" Nagito asked, but Hajime shook his head. Nagito looked at Hajime in suspicion. "I'm watching you..."

"Does that mean Herry can be our classmate?" Akane raised her hand as she asked. "Is his birthday coming soon? Oh! Can we celebrate it now?! I'm craving for cake!"

"Can't you think of anything other than food?" Fuyuhiko sat back down on his seat.

"Listen. Someone let a blue butterfly in my room last week, and they've..." Hajime stopped halfway. Koichi looked in the direction, seeing four mechanical butterflies fluttering around. Hajime muttered, "Oh god. They're multiplying."

"... Crap," Koichi didn't see that coming either.

"Are they dangerous?" Peko scrutinized the inorganic creations.

"They shouldn't be..." Sagi-shi noted. "They are equipped for intelligence gathering."

"Uh..." Hajime frowned, watching the butterfly glitch to ten butterflies. "What subject am I teaching again?"

"Physics," Hiyoko watched the butterflies grow in number. "At least they're pretty."

"Are they flammable?" Teruteru asked. The butterflies are resting on the lights, looking quite intimidating. Mahiru snapped a photo of the sight.

"They shouldn't...be?" Kazuichi squinted at the butterflies.

"As long as they're not burning the classroom, we'll be fine!" Ibuki reassured.

"I agreed on PE, not this..." Hajime flipped the physics textbook from somewhere. Koichi was advised not to overthink it. "Where's Yukizome-sensei?"

"I saw her in the school hospital," Mikan muttered, fiddling with her hands.

"Let's go visit Yukizome-sensei!" Hajime closed the book.

"You hate math?" Koichi took a sip from his canister. "For shame!"

"Sorry, but I recall the new rules stating alcohol isn't allowed in the morning," Hajime warned, watching Nekomaru pick up Chiaki and Izuru.

...

"Ikusaba Mukuro and the mastermind escaped the detention center yesterday," Hajime confessed while they were halfway to the school's hospital. "Based on your silence, the Steering Committee didn't want admin to find out. Unfortunately, Yukizome-sensei was part of the personnel who tried detaining the escapees."

"..." Koichi clenched his fists, asking. "What is the government's plan?"

"I don't know..." Hajime watched Chiaki talk about her game to Izuru. "But I have to monitor Kamukura."

"If he sides with the mastermind, I have to terminate him..." Hajime exhaled. Hearing his name, Izuru looked at them. Hajime continued, "He should still have some reserved prejudice on the reserve course, right?"

"Maybe," Koichi wasn't sure anymore.