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Chapter Text

Before the story begins, I want to address a few things beforehand. Seven is important to know, so please read every note in this. Trust me, it's not worth what you all suffer through. With that out of the way, here are the disclaimers:

ONE - I do not own the original story, the musical, or any of the characters in this story. Every Danganronpa character is owned by Spike Chunsoft and Kazutaka Kodaka, and the two storylines are by Robert Louis Stevenson (book) and Frank Wildhorn (musical).

TWO - This story is based off of Frank Wildhorn's Jekyll and Hyde: The Musical, as well as the original novel the musical is based on, The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson. This is in no way an original story, it's just a re-imagining of the book and the musical with characters from the Danganronpa franchise.

THREE - Every character in this AU is either sixteen, seventeen, eighteen, or nineteen, with the exception of Yasuhiro, who will remain twenty-one (it makes sense if you've played Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc.). This has to be said because of the confusing ages that people sometimes get muddled up, and the whole confuddle of THH Chapter 6, and because it's Danganronpa. Keep in mind it's an alternate universe, and not all of the ages I assign to the characters in this are canon. I am fully aware of the canon ages (e.g: Class 77 are all 22 years old in canon.)

FOUR - Dr. Naegi and Mr. Komaeda is a Danganronpa Non-Despair AU, that takes place directly after the prologue of Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc. Any continuity error is considered part of this AU. Just a brief preface to avoid confusion.

FIVE - Every opinion used in this work (e.g: headcanons, opinions on characters, and hell, even ships (e.g: Makoto x Hajime, Makoto x Kyoko, Mondo x Taka, Sayaka x Leon and Kyoko x Mahiru (don't ask 😅) are mine, and mine only. These aren't facts. So if you bitch about it in the comments without reading this disclaimer, I will laugh mercilessly at your stupidity. (But then again, this is the Danganronpa fandom, so for all I know, this probably flew over a lot of people's heads.) Don't do that, just read something else, I won't mind.

SIX - The Izuru of this AU will be different compared to Canon Izuru, half because since the events of SDR2, UDG and The End Of Hope's Peak Academy don't happen, Hajime doesn't volunteer for The Kamukura Project, and mostly because I personally don't like Canon Izuru that much, and his personality doesn't really match with the theme of the story. So, if the Izuru in this book seems incredibly out of character, know it's for a reason, and I hope you understand.

SEVEN - The description of the story states this, but just to re-iterate: This story contains heavy swearing, action violence, blood, body horror, sexual themes, depictions of sexual harassment, mental illness and trauma. I will try to put in a trigger warning for chapters that contain these themes. Should I forget any, (kindly) let me know, and I can immediately include it in the warnings.

EIGHT - This is a non-despair AU. I am not intentionally leaving out the tragedy. I just feel like that would just get in the way of the story, especially this kind of story I want to tell. Keep that in mind! (Also a note that Jin Kirigiri is alive in this AU. Simply because I want him to be. Look, Jin deserved better in my opinion, okay?!)

With all of that out of the way, please, get comfortable, and enjoy reading Dr. Naegi and Mr. Komaeda!

Chapter Text

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You all know the story of the Ultimate Lucky Student, Makoto Naegi. How he defeated Junko Enoshima, saved Hope’s Peak Academy and Towa City, and went on to become the Ultimate Hope, and Hope’s Peak’s headmaster.

However…this is not the intended story.

This is a story that begs the question: What if Junko Enoshima died before she could event start the tragedy, and the Class 78 Killing Game? What if her killer was a bigger threat than she is? What if the Class 78 Killing Game…never happened?

This is the story of the Ultimate Lucky Student, Makoto Naegi, and his endeavours to understand the source of hope and the source of despair: the elements of goodness and evil, which are inherent in every single one of our hearts.

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It was nighttime at Hope’s Peak Academy. What 15 students thought would be a normal first day turned for the worst. Instead, they had all been imprisoned by an animatronic bear named Monokuma. Worst of all, Monokuma planned on throwing them all into a killing game. Notice how I said planned? Well…here’s what actually happened instead.

Whilst everyone else was asleep, the Ultimate Fashionista, Junko Enoshima, was sat on her bed, wide awake. Almost as if she was waiting for someone. That’s because this wasn’t the real Junko Enoshima. Her real name was…

"Mukuro! Where are you?!" a voice rang out from the speakers. “What do you want now, Junko?” Ultimate Soldier Mukuro Ikusaba sighed.“You know damn well what I'm calling you here for! Come here!"

Mukuro began walking over to the room where the voice was coming from. She stopped midway, as she suddenly got a feeling watched, or worse followed. She turned around, her hand in her pocket in case she needed to defend herself. Nothing. She took her hand out her pocket and continued walking up to the room. After a moment, she finally arrived and opened the door.

The room was dark, save one light. The light showed a silhouette of a girl, sitting on a swivel chair, in front of a monitor. Turning around, Mukuro was face to face with a girl with long, thick, bleached, strawberry blonde hair tied into pigtails. This was her younger twin sister, Junko Enoshima.

"Ugh, I can't honestly bare seeing you with that disguise. You don't have to wear it when you're in here, dear sister." Junko scoffed. Mukuro rolled her eyes, and began removing the wig she was wearing, revealing her short black hair underneath it. "Thank god, that wig is so heavy. How can you handle that kind of hairstyle? It's honestly pituful." Mukuro heaved. She stood next to her sister, who look pretty comfortable in that chair. “So, Junko, what’s the plan?” she asked.

“Simple. First, we kill Kyoko's father. Get him put of the way, strip the students of their memories for two years, and that'll be enough time for us to destroy the world." Junko smiled menacingly, with a small laugh escaping mid-sentence. “Ooh, that’s perfect. Has any progress been made?”

“Nope, not yet. But, I’m about to get to the first part. We need that pathetic Principle Kirigiri out of the way first. Let’s track him down!” Junko laughed, as she grabbed the mouse and waved it to turn the monitor on. Only…the monitor wasn’t corresponding with it. Junko’s confusion turned to frustration.

“Huh? What the?! Nothing's working! The cameras won't turn on!" Junko cried, furiously shaking the mouse. “Uh, Junko? When was the last time you saw Monokuma?” Mukuro asked. Junko couldn’t answer. She shrugged her shoulders, her mouth making a noise as if to say “I don’t know.”

Suddenly, a laugh suddenly could be heard inside of the room, which caught the attention of both sisters. “Did you hear that?" Junko asked. "Yes, I did.” Mukuro replied. “What the hell was that?"

“Who are you?!” Junko yelled into the void. “No one else is meant to be here! Show yourself!”

That’s when the twins noticed a silhouette leaning against the wall. The person stepped out of the darkness, and faced themselves toward something the twins, their faces holding a shocked expression.

It was a girl. Her long, purple braids almost touched the ground. The thing that was most disturbing was her eyes. They didn’t look human, those blood red eyes. Junkp stared at the girl with confused shock, but Mukuro knew who this girl was. She knew all too well…

“T-Toko?! Jesus Christ, what happened to you?!” the soldier cried. Suddenly, a shrill laugh came from the girl in front of them. “Who’s Toko? Cause it’s certainly not me!” she said, in a sing-song voice.

“What are you doing here, Toko?! You’re not meant to be here! No one is but me and Mukuro!” Junko yelled. “Monokuma? Monokuma!!” The girl giggled. ”Sorry, but none of your cute little teddies are coming to save you!”

“What?!” the blonde cried. “What the fuck did you do?!” “As we speak, every Monokuma you planned to set out has been deactivated. Oh, and I cut every wire too, so there's no repairing them!" the girl let out another shrill laugh.

“Toko, what in the actual—" Mukuro started. “There is no Toko! That's a loser's name!” the girl interrupted. “You're both speaking to the Ultimate Murderous Fiend, Genocide Jack! Or maybe I'm Genocide Jill? I don't know, and I certainly don't care!"

Junko and Mukuro just stood there. Mukuro was confused, but then, she saw a devious smile form on her sister’s face, as she began walking towards Genocide Jack. “Junko, no! Stay back!” Mukuro cried, reaching out to her, in an attempt to stop her. She knew damn well what that girl was about to do.

“I must say, Miss Genocide, I’m impressed! Not even I can pull off a feat like this!” Junko said, smiling. “I can only imagine what someone like you could do!”

“Junko, that’s a notorious serial killer!” Mukuro yelled. “Get away from her!” “Shut up, you stupid cow!” Junko scoffed and yelled back, before turning her head back in Genocide Jack’s direction. She held her hand out to. “What do you say, Miss Genocide Jack? Do you wanna help me bring this world to shit, and create despair together?” she offered.

“You? And me? Creating despair? Kyahahahahah!!" Genocide Jack let out a shrill laugh, smacking Junko’s hand away. "Seriously?! You think I'm here to become a partner in crime or something like that?! Hell no!”

“What?! Isn’t that why you’re here?! To prove your worth to me, the soon to be Ultimate Despair?!” Junko cried.

“Not at all! You see, Miss Enoshima, you didn't know I exist, so...I heard everything you said, and decided to stop you!" Jack claimed, before laughing again. Junko was stunned, and that quickly turned into rage, as she turned to her sister. "Mukuro, how could you?!" she yelled. "What?! You can't pin this all on me! I didn't know she existed, and neither did you!" the solider protested. "Ugh! I should have known not to call you back here to help me with all this! You're useless!"

“At least I'm not the one that's absolutely horny for despair and all of that shit!" The squabbling lasted for a few minutes before Genocide Jack, whom the twins forgot was in the room with them, got annoyed. "You two are annoying! Bye bye!" she scoffed and smiled, before running up behind Junko's back, and stabbing her in the back with her scissors. Junko let out a loud, pained scream, as her body immediately lunged over to the desktop.

Before Jack could continue, she heard a gun being loaded. She turned to see Mukuro, holding a gun towards the murderer's chest. "G-get her, Mukuro!" Junko shouted, before she violently began coughing up blood. "Junko, are you—" "JUST KILL HER!!!" Junko screamed.

“Alright, you bastard..." she started, loading her gun. "I don't know what you think you're doing, but this is our killing game! "Not anymore! I hearby declare the killing game has been officially cancelled!" Jack laughed.

Before Mukuro could shoot, she felt a sharp pain in her gut, as she lost her grip on her gun, and it dropped to the ground. Looking down at her stomach, she could see blood pooling out of it. She looked back at Jack in anger. She would not die to this girl. She used all of her strength to lung at her, only for Jack to grab ahold of her neck with a very tight grip.

The last thing heard in the room were the bone-chilling, agonised screams of Ultimate Fashionista Junko Enoshima and Ultimate Solider, Mukuro Ikusaba.

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One year later…

A year. That’s how long it had been since the sudden murder of the Ultimate Fashionista Junko Enoshima and the Ultimate Soldier, Mukuro Ikusaba. One year ago today. Their deaths were just as sudden as the school being back to normal the time all the students have awoken. Some of them just hide their confusion, and assumed their brief imprisonment inside of tbe prestigious Hope’s Peak Academy was all just a dream. However…they would soon realise that they were wrong. They were so, so wrong.

A young boy who looked to be about sixteen years old was walking through the hallway. His hair looked distinctly ruffled, and he overall looked quite tired. This was Makoto Naegi, the Ultimate Lucky Student of Class 78. Makoto had had a long day, and simply just wanted to rest. He was just about to reach the doorknob of his dorm room until he suddenly felt a yank at his hoodie.

“Come with me!” a masculine voice said from behind him, before pulling him by his hoodie, which caused a yell to escape from Makoto’s mouth. Makoto turned his head around to see who was doing this, and was met with a tall, blonde man, with white glasses behind his crystal blue eyes, and dressed in a formal fashion. He quickly recognised the man as Byakuya Togami, the Ultimate Affluent Progeny.

“Byakuya, what the hell?!” Makoto yelled, before noticing Byakuya’s expression. It was…worried. ‘Worried’ was never an expression anyone used to describe someone like Byakuya Togami. And Byakuya was never the running type, so this seemed serious.

“Hold it!” Makoto yelled. Byakuya looked back at his captive, confused. “C-Can we just hold hands? I-I can’t breathe…” Byakuya sighed, and let go of his hoodie. “What’s going on, Byakuya? And why do you look so nervous?”

“I can’t explain it right now. Just wait until we get to the dining hall. We’ll explain everything.” Byakuya responded. “We?” Makoto repeated. He didn’t get a reply, as Byakuya quickly grabbed the brunette’s hand, and began running through the hallway.

Makoto kept wondering when the Ultimate Moral Compass, Kiyotaka Ishimaru would come storming towards them telling them that they shouldn’t be running in the halls, but the entire hallway was completely empty. Something strange is going on right now, and he really wanted to find out what it was that was happening.

Finally, after what seemed like forever (when it was actually just twenty seconds), Makoto and Byakuya reached their destination: the dining hall. Makoto waited for the latter to catch his breath, he clearly wasn’t used to this, which the brunette understood.

Byakuya walked into the room, with Makoto following behind. “Now, can you tell me what’s going on?” Makoto asked, before his eyes landed on a group of 11 students, huddled around the table. One of them, a girl with an unusual brown ponytail, noticed him. “Hey, look! Makoto!” she called out.

“Huh? What? What’s going on? I’m so confused…” Makoto asked. “Count us.” Byakuya told him. “Huh?” “You heard me. Count us all, and tell us if anyone is missing.”

Makoto began counting: including him and Byakuya, there was Sayaka Maizono, Leon Kuwata, Chihiro Fujisaki, Mondo Owada, Kiyotaka Ishimaru, Hifumi Yamada, Celestia Ludenburg, Sakura Ogami, Yasuhiro Hagakure, Aoi Asahina, and finally, Kyoko Kirigiri. Wait…finally? Makoto recounted, and realised that there was only 13 of them, where there should be 14!

“Where the hell is Toko?!” Makoto cried. Kiyotaka, or Taka, as he like to be called, suddenly stood up and walked to Makoto, grabbing his hand. “Come with me. I’ll show you.”

Makoto nodded his head, and followed Taka, who, despite being blunt and a bit too forward, had a lot more curtesy than Byakuya and his usually blunt and stubborn nature. He was followed back into the dormitory hallway, where they came to a stop in front of the door of Toko Fukawa, the Ultimate Writing Prodigy.

“Now, Makoto, I want you to listen when Toko replies. See if that voice is hers.” Taka told Makoto. And if Makoto knew anything about Taka, when he gave orders, he expected them to be followed, no questions asked. So Makoto just stood there whilst Taka knocked on the door three times, awaiting an answer.

“Toko? Is everything okay?” Taka asked. Suddenly, a female voice came from the door, presumably Toko’s. “Y-yes. I’m fine, Kiyotaka…” there was something odd about Toko’s voice, but Makoto couldn’t describe it. “Could you maybe come out? You’ve been cooped up in there for over a week.”

N-no! I-I can’t! It’s too much of a risk!” Toko cried, her voice completely changed. “Oh…I see. Well, I won’t force you out there. We’re just worried about you, Toko.” Taka said, his expression changing to make him look even more worried than before. “Have you at least had the dinner Hifumi and Hina set out for you?” A small ‘mhm’ noise was heard from behind the door. “Good. Well, I’ll leave you be now, Toko.” the hall monitor said, turning away from the door.

He took Makoto’s hand again and took him back into the hall that lead to the dining hall. “Uh…Makoto. Was that Toko’s voice?” Taka asked, his face having gone from worried to downright frightened. “No. It sounded…different. What’s going on with her?” Makoto replied.

Without answering, Taka walked back into the dining hall, signalling Makoto to follow him. The brunette followed, as they saw the other again. This time, the Ultimate Gambler, Celestia Ludenburg, a very pale- looking girl with a black ponytail that resembled a drill, was the first to notice.

“Ah, you’re back!” she said to get everyone else’s attention. “And you look really confused, just like the rest of us. It’s just as I expected.” Makoto was worried, that was for sure. Taka and Celestia walked to the table, which urged Makoto to do the same. “So…what’s been going on with Toko?” he asked. “Her voice seemed so different than usual…”

“You’re not alone in noticing that, Makoto. That voice isn’t hers. And it hasn’t been hers for over a week. And Taka over here suspects there might have been some foul play going on.” Mondo said. Makoto just looked even more confused. “What do you mean by foul play?” he asked.

“Makoto. Do you know what today is?” Aoi asked. “Uhhh, it’s…August 13th.” Makoto replied. And if I remember correctly, that means it’s been one year since our intended school life began since Junko and Mukuro suddenly died. Why?”

“Well, in the days following up to the deaths of Junko and Mukuro, I noticed Toko was a lot more…panicky. She jumped at the slightest of things. I mean, we all know she’s shy, but she’s normally not this timid!” Leon started.

“And ever since last week, she’s started isolating herself in her room.” Mondo said. “And that’s what we know so far. Does anyone else have any information?” Taka asked. Hifumi, Celestia and Aoi both raised their hands at the same time. “Hifumi, Celeste, Aoi?”

“I help Miss Asahina and Miss Ludenburg with our meals, and Miss Fukawa always instructed us to just leave her meals by the door.” Hifumi started. “She always uses her E-Handbook to contact me when she needs something.” Celestia continued. “I don’t know why it’s always me, but it’s always me.” “And she absolutely refuses to leave her room. The only time she ever leaves it is to either get a snack or to go to the toilet!” Aoi finished. “Thank you for the information. Anything else?” Taka asked.

“I have something else.” Sayaka Maizono raised her hand for approval to talk. “Before their deaths, the dorm roomswere completely soundproof. We all know that. But now that they aren’t since their systems broke, I’ve been hearing Toko weeping. Yelling…and sometimes, I hear another voice.”

“Couldn’t she just be talking to herself for dialogue inspiration for her books?” Hifumi asked. “I wouldn’t blame her. We’re both story writers, and I do that when I’m trying to make up dialogue.”

“No, Hifumi. And I wish it was the case.” Sayaka sighed. “What’s worse, is that the other voice sounds just like the voice Makoto and Taka just heard! I’m scared for her, what if there’s an intruder?!”

Chihiro Fujisaki suddenly raised their hand, to give approval to talk. “Um, I…I’m not sure if this is relevant, but…Byakuya and I have been studying this. He told me this situation reminds him of book he read in the library, and one book I found about serial killers?”

“Ah, you know what might be going on!” Celestia said. “Care to show this book to us, you two?” Byakuya and Chihiro nodded their heads ‘yes’, as Chihiro took two books out of their bag.The first was called ‘The Murder Cases of Genocide Jack’, and the other was titled ‘The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde’.

“Genocide Jack? Who’s that?” Aoi wondered aloud. “Genocide Jack is a notorious serial killer. She is known best for killing any boy she deems ‘cute’ or ‘hot’.” Byakuya explained. “She has a number tally of all the people she’s killed on her right leg. I believe her tally right now is 39.”

“Wait!” Leon cried. “I thought the tally number was 37!” Byakuya hummed. “What makes you say that, Leon?” he asked.

“I learned about this girl in class two months ago!” Leon explained. “She killed about 37 men, in a peculiar fashion as well! They were crucified with her scissors, Jesus Christ style! What do you mean her tally is 39 now?!”

“Hmm, interesting. But Chihiro and I have a question: Don’t you all think it’s odd that on the same month Junko and Mukuro were murdered was when Toko startee acting off?”

“Are you insinuating that she’s connected to that little fucker?!” Mondo cried. “Goddammit, just tell us what you think is going on!”

“We think Toko is Genocide Jack. We think she killed the twins.” Chihiro said. “But that doesn’t make any sense!” Sayaka cried. “You said that Genocide Jack only kills boys she deems cute! Why would she suddenly go after two girls to add two to her tally of victims?”

“I can only imagine she held something against the twins.” Chihiro replied. “Toko probably had some horrible feeling about them and let Genocide Jack take care of the matter to ease her anxieties. She could simply be a manifestation of Toko’s intrusive thoughts, and one of them won by killing the twins. Take a look at this passage from Strange Case, and you’ll see what I mean.

Makoto took the book and read the passage Chihiro had highlighted with sticky tabs. “So, something science-related happened to Toko, which caused her alter ego to be created?”

“I suppose so. I wonder what it was?” Celestia wondered. “Did she volunteer for an experiment? Forced into being a test subject?”

“It’s interesting to wonder, but that’s not our main focus, Celeste.” Taka said. “What we should be focusing on is how do we get to Toko?”

Everyone sat in thought, wondering how they could possibly get the door open so they could see if Toko was safe. Just then, Chihiro raised their hand again. “I…I think I may know how we can get to her.” they said. “Well? We’re listening!” Taka said.

Chihro took a deep breath before continuing. “Uh…this may be a bit ludicrous, but…I don’t think we’re left with any other choice but to…break down the door to her room.”

“CHIHIRO, WHAT THE ACTUAL FUCK?!” Makoto yelled. “Did I hear that right?!” Byakuya cried. “Ah! Chihiro! That’s talking!” Celestia exclaimed.

“Uhh, how exactly are we gonna do that?” Yasuhiro asked. “What do you mean, Hiro?” “I mean, Toko’s door is locked from the inside, and I’m fairly sure she has the key. Even if her door was locked, the door wouldn’t go down.”

“It would if we used one of the toolkits from a guy’s bedroom. And where are you going with this? Did you get a sudden prediction?” Aoi asked. Hiro nodded his head. “And it’s got something to do with Toko and Jack…and ohhh man, it is not a good sight…”

“Well, what’s up? What do you see??” Kyoko asked. Yasuhiro took a deep breath, and spoke again. “I see a room of blood. And…a dead Toko!” The rest gasped. Kyoko immediately stood up, and said. “If that’s the case, we’d better hurry up and get to her room!” she said.

“Uhh, you sure? This is Hiro we’re talking about.” Mondo said. “Hiro’s predictions are right approximately 98% of the time, Mondo. This could be that percentage.” Kyoko replied. She then turned to Leon and Makoto. “Leon, Makoto, I need you two to grab weapons. One for breaking down the door, and one for out defense.” she ordered them.

“Leon, I want you to grab an axe from the kitchen.” she continued. “And Makoto, you grab a knife for defense.” They both nodded and ran off to the kitchen. “And Sakura, if all else fails, use your fists to defend us.” Sakura nodded her head in agreement.

“Who’s gonna start the action by knocking?” Aoi asked. “Simple. It’s gonna be Byakuya.” Kyoko replied. “What?!” Byakuya shrieked. “Why me?! You know how much I hate that gross, perverted, creep—“ “I know. But you’re the only one Toko will listen to in terms of orders.” Kyoko said. “I don’t want to have to force you to do this, but I don’t have a choice.”

“Fine. But this doesn’t mean she’s my friend...” Byakuya scoffed. Kyoko just smiled. “Kyoko!” Leon shouted. “We’ve got the axe and knife!” The detective turned and saw Leon holding the axe, and Makoto examining the knife in his hand. “Good.” Kyoko said. “Right! Let’s get going, everyone!”

Everyone left the dining hall, and began walking up to the dormitory hallway. Some lf them had looks of determination, whilst others had expressions of worry. They all hoped they weren’t too late to save Toko. Eventually, everyone had made it to Toko’s room.

“Right, everyone, get into your positions. Just in case Genocide Jack decides to attack us.” Kyoko ordered. Once everyone was in their assigned places, Leon with the axe and Makoto with the knife, Byakuya walked to the door and banged on it three times.

“Toko," he cried, with a loud voice, "Open the door this instant!" He paused a moment, but there came no reply. "I give you fair warning, our suspicions are aroused, and as your master,  I must, and shall see you!" he resumed; "Don't make us come in there!"

“Master," said a shrill, female voice from the other side of the door, "Please, no! Have mercy!" "Oh my god! That's not Toko's voice — it's Jack's!" cried Makoto. "Leon! Break down the door, now!" Byakuya demanded.

Leon swung the axe over his shoulder; the blow shook the hall, and the red baize door leaped against the lock and hinges, as the students could hear a loud scream from the other door, making them more determined to save Toko. Up went the axe again, and again the panels crashed and the frame bounded; four times the blow fell; but the wood was tough and the fittings were of excellent workmanship; and it was not until the fifth, that the lock burst in sunder and the wreck of the door fell outwards.

“LOOK OUT!!" Sakura shouted. Everyone ran out of the way, pulling anyone they thought was about to make contact with the door back with them. Many sighs of relief followed, as, thankfully no one was hurt.

"Is everyone okay?" Kyoko asked. "Yes." Sakura nodded. "If I wasn't able to protect my classmates, I'd never be able to live it down." "I'm with you, Sakura. I don't know when I started caring so much about you little fuckers." Mondo laughed a bit. "Uh...Mondo? Can you...let go of me?" Chihiro choked a question out. Mondo quickly apologised and put them down.

Turning their focuses back onto their plan, the students took a step forward and peered in. Then all of a sudden, there was a gasp from Sayaka, and a scream of horror from both Makoto and Taka. Silence followed, for there, before their eyes, a body lying mangled and bloody, there lay...the Ultimate Writing Prodigy, Toko Fukawa. Even Kyoko, the calmest member of the entire class, was disturbed at the sight in front of her. The class was at a standstill. No one felt as if they could even dare breathe.

Makoto began walking slowly into the room. Kneeling down, he put his hand onto Toko's pulse. No response. His face fell, his previous suspicion confirmed. His hand moved to her shoulder as he slowly turned her body around. Her bloodied face made the brunette gag a little bit. Blood was leaking out of her mouth, and her face has carpet burns and bruises all over it. Her glasses, which normally sat perfectly on her face, had been broken beyond repair, the lenses snapped and the glass cracked.

"She's dead, isn't she?" Sayaka said, sounding defeated. Makoto turned to the rest of the class, and nodded his head with a dejected look. The class gasped as the realisation finally hit them. They were too late.

“Wait! Look!" Hifumi suddenly said with a shocked expression, frantically pointing at something. "Something seems to be next to her!"

Makoto looked over Toko's body. Hifumi was right. Something was next to her. It appeared to be a sheet of white paper, with something written on it in Toko's handwriting. Is this...? Please don't be what I think this is...Makoto thought, his mind filling with panic as he began to pick the pieces of what happened up.

“Well? What are you waiting for?" Celestia said, snapping Makoto back to the reality of the situation. "Go on. Read it. It may explain this whole charade to us." Makoto gulped and began reading the note to the rest of the class out loud:

“To whoever in this class receives this letter, I fear I may have been hiding something terrible from you. But, it was for good cause, because I only wish for you all to be safe. Even in the two years we have all known each other, I fully trust you all to hear my sad little story.

So...you're correct. I am Genocide Jack. She was famous for killing pretty boys I found interest in, but, last year, her murders had escalated to us becoming fully wanted by police. Junko Enoshima and Mukuro Ikusaba were our victims, yes, but they weren't fully blameless.

You see, Mukuro had disguised herself as Junko, and I saw her walking up to a place in the school I didn't even know was available. Jack, or Syo, as I like to call her, and I decided to follow her, and eavesdrop her conversation with the real Junko. They had a plan to destroy our world, and throw people like us in these things Junko called 'killing games'. They called it the Tragedy. I was enraged, and slightly betrayed, because I honestly kind of viewed the twins as friends.

Syo suddenly talked to me, and we talked for a bit about the information we had just heard, and we both agreed we couldn't let it happen. But, since we couldn't just attack them, we had to make sure everything was out of the way.

We destroyed every Monokuma before sneaking into the room and cutting the wires to every plug without the sisters noticing. Syo revealed herself to the twins, when I suddenly remembered something, and I quickly began to panic and tried telling her I changed my mind, that this wasn't a good idea given the consequences we would face.

But it was too late. She murdered both Junko and Mukuro before I could even start.

If Syo wasn't so careless, she would have listened to me when I told her that Junko was a celebrity, and that if we killed her, she would have an investigation that would lead to us becoming wanted criminals.

Although, I don't necessarily blame Syo. She wanted to protect you guys, and the world, just as much as I did...I'm so sorry. I feel as if I failed you. So, please, for me, if I die, please...do not tell them the truth. The truth that the Ultimate Murderous Fiend, Genocide Syo is actually the Ultimate Writing Prodigy, Toko Fukawa. I highly doubt the police will believe that...well then...I bring the life of that unhappy Toko Fukawa to an end...goodbye."

Makoto’s initial fear was correct. What Toko had written was not just a confession, but a suicide note as well."She was trying to protect us?" Chihiro repeated one part of the letter. “Well, what are we supposed to do now?” Sayaka asked. “We have to respect her wishes. This is what she wants.” Sakura replied.“Yeah, and I hate to admit this, but…Toko's right. Who the fuck would even believe that shit besides us?" Mondo said.

“Right, then. I will contact the police immediately. As for you all, we have all had a very long day. I think all of us need a little rest.” Kyoko told the group. Everyone nodded and left one by one. “No worries, Leon, I’ll put the axe and the knife back in their rightful places.” the detective said as Leon’s eyes adverted to the axe. Leon nodded his head as he left.

After a minute, everyone had left for bed except for two: Kyoko and Makoto, the latter still at Toko’s body, holding her hand. “She’s unfortunately beyond help, Makoto.” Kyoko said, glumly. “Kiri, she still had a soul, a life! As good and as pure as yours or mine! Why should we treat it as if she was an animal let out it it’s cage?” Makoto replied.

Kyoko sighed. He was right. Toko was just a kid, and so was Syo. And more importantly, she was their friend. It wasn’t Kyoko’s fault, she’s just blunt, but someone as optimistic as Makoto can manage to drag her out back into reality and put her into perspective. She admired him for that.

“Uh…Kiri?” Makoto suddenly said. “This may seem out of the blue but…do you think separating good and evil is possible?” “What? What caused that question to dawn upon you?” Kyoko asked, suprised by the sudden question.

“I dunno…there’s gotta be a reason that despair is so powerful.” Makoto said, deep in thought. “I think evil could be the main reason. What if we could separate good and evil? Just imagine, a world without evil, a world without despair!”

“I do admit, I always imagined it.” Kyoko started. “But you shouldn’t really meddle with something you don’t really understand.”

“Then I’ll try to!” Makoto declared. “Huh?” “You heard me! I’ll try to understand the human mind! To try and see why evil is the main cause for despair, and to separate it from the good of mankind!”

“Makoto…you’re quite a determined guy.” The detective giggled a bit. She didn’t really like where this was going, but she decided it was best to put her skeptism aside for him. “Well then, I have high expectations for you. Good luck, Makoto. I think you’ll need it.”

“Pssh, please!” Makoto laughed. “I’m the Ultimate Lucky Student, Kiri! I’m positive good luck is on my side!” Kyoko smiled before she left. Makoto got up to leave as well, but not before taking one final look at Toko. “Sleep well, Toki.” he smiled. Since he was the last to leave the room, he closed the door behind him, as he walked over to his own room.

Chapter Text

One year has passed since the unfortunate death of Toko Fukawa. Just as she predicted, no one believed she was actually Genocide Jack. Life for Class 78 had been just as normal as usual, but at the same time, a lot has changed as well.

Kyoko started her own detective agency in honour of her late mother, with Taka and Chihiro as her frontmen. Meanwhile Makoto became a doctor and scientist, though most of his time is spent taking care of people rather than experiments. But that’s just who he was. He had the title Dr. Makoto Naegi, sometimes formally referred to as Dr. Naegi, but he just preferred being called by his actual name, Makoto.

Makoto was in the middle of treating Mahiru Koizumi, the Ultimate Photographer. She was a member of Kyoko’s Detective Agency, being the person in charge of taking photos of crime scene evidence and autopsies, which she shared handling the latter with the Ultimate Nurse, Mikan Tsumiki, who is also Makoto’s assistant.

Mahiru had been attacked trying to catch a criminal with Kyoko. Her left shoulder was bitten and scratched, with a lot of black bruises on it, but Makoto knew what could help it, and had just finished treating it.

“There. You should feel a bit more comfortable now. I’d suggest taking ibuprofen too, to help the pain go away quicker.” “Thanks, Makoto. You're a really nice guy, you know that?" Mahiru smiled. "Ahaha, it's nothing, Mahiru. Really. I'm just doing my job.” the brunette laughed. Mahiru got up, and began to walk out. “Thanks again, you two! See you later!” she waved goodbye. “Bye, Mahiru!” Makoto waved back. He turned his back to Mikan, smiling.

“Well, that was a good job, Mikan!” he said. “Y-you think?” Mikan asked. Makoto placed his hands on her shoulder. “Of course. I don’t think you give yourself enough credit. You’re a good nurse and assistant, Miki.” he smiled, reassuring her. Mikan couldn’t help but smile back. “You can take a break if you w-want, Makoto. I’ll handle the rest before we have to close.” Mikan suggested.

“Oh, I do remember there’s somewhere I need to be right now anyways, so I can take a break afterwards anyways. Just call if you have any problems, Mikan.” Makoto replied. He grabbed his bag and left the room, smiling and waving goodbye to Mikan, who waved back.

Makoto walked on through the hallway, looking at a few notes for an upcoming meeting, when suddenly, he felt a harsh impact, and nearly fell flat on his bum before an arm wrapped itself around his waist. Makoto sighed as he realised he had just bumped into someone.

”Woah, careful, Makoto! Are you okay?” a masculine voice spoke from above him. Makoto turned to see who he almost bumped into, his face immediately flushing red when he saw who it was. It was a boy with spiky-ish brown hair, his green eyes a beautiful hue, that Makoto found himself zoned out whilst looking into them.

“H-Hajime!” Makoto spluttered, coming back to his senses. “I’m so sorry! I wasn’t paying attention to my surroundings!” Hajime laughed. “It’s okay, buddy. I wasn’t really paying attention either.”

Hajime Hinata, the Ultimate Reserve Course Student. Makoto’s best friend, a member of Hope’s Peak’s Reserve Course, and Makoto’s crush. Hajime has a crush on him too. And neither of them have realised that they both have feelings for each other yet. Young love, am I right?

“Where are you heading off to, anyways, Haji?” Makoto asked. “Well, I was going to go to the hospital to collect you, but looks like I don’t need to do that anymore.” Hajime smiled, ruffling Makoto’s hair as he spoke. “We’ve both volunteered to help with the preparations for the welcome party for Class 79, remember?”

Class 79 was the newest class to be introduced into Hope’s Peak Academy, with approximately 17 new students coming into the school starting today. One was from St. Koa Girls Academy, the rest were from the Ultimate Academy for Gifted Juveniles. Jin Kirigiri, Kyoko’s father, and the headmaster of Hope’s Peak held a welcome party for every new class that came to the school, with Hajime’s class, Class 77, being the previous class to have one.

“Oh, right! I nearly forgot about that! Well, shall we get going?” Makoto said. Hajime nodded, and took Makoto’s hand, as they both began walking to the dining hall, where the welcome party was taking place. They eventually got to their location. “Well, what should we start with?” Makoto asked. “Maybe the garlands? It’d leave a worry off your mind, for one.”

Makoto faked offense. “Hajime, I’m not that small!” he pouted, which caused both of them to laugh. “Well, well, well~ I see the main boys have finally arrived.” a suave sounding voice came from the kitchen, as the door opened. A small, chubby boy wearing a chef’s uniform stepped out. Hajime recognised the boy immediately. “Ah, I see you’re here already, Teruteru.”

Teruteru Hanamura, the Ultimate Cook, or as he preferred to be called, Teruteru Hanamura, the Ultimate Chef. Because to him, it had a ‘big city’ feel to it. A student from Hajime’s class, Teruteru is quite the seducing type. Although some of his innuendos do tend to get him in trouble sometimes.

“Of course I’m here already, Haji-boy! Principal Kirigiri left me in charge of the food here after all! Ibuki, Leon and Sayaka are here too, trying to get appropriate music for our little party.” Teruteru explained. “Well, how’s your cooking been going, Teru?” Makoto asked.

“Oh, it’s been going splendid, Koti!” Teruteru beamed. “My work is not yet done, but I’m working real hard! In more ways than one too~” Hajime rolled his eyes, while Makoto laughed. “I bet your mother’s really proud of you right now, Teru.” Teruteru sighed. “I hope so. She always had high hopes for my future, but I worry she’s not gonna last long enough for me to finally inherit the Hanamura restaurant.”

“Well, I say you’re doing great in your job.” Makoto smiled. The chef smiled back, when a sudden burnt smell filled the air. “Oh, sweet crap! I better get back to work! Lovely talking with you two!” Teruteru laughed awkwardly before heading back into the kitchen. The two boys immediately got to work setting up the room for the party.

Makoto was on his tippy toes trying to reach the wall, but to no avail. Hajime chuckled a bit. “Do you need some help? Want me to get you a stepladder?” he asked. Makoto pouted and nodded. Hajime grabbed the stepladder and gave it to Makoto. Within a few moments, the garlands were all up on the wall.

As the brunette walked to put the stepladder back, Hajime chuckled again. “A guy as small as you shouldn’t be afraid ask for help from a tall guy like me.” he smirked, ruffling Makoto’s hair.

“I know. I just wish I could magically grow like…I dunno, eight inches? It’d make my life so easy.” Makoto sighed. Hajime chuckled. “Well, you’re seventeen, Makoto. I think that boys stop growing after they turn sixteen.” Makoto whispered ‘fuck’ under his breath, making Hajime laugh again.

A few hours pass, and Makoto and Hajime are almost done with the preparations for the party. All they had to to was set up the lights, and they were done. Makoto was directing Hajime to what to do, telling him to be steady as can be. When all of a sudden…

“MAKOTO!!!” A sudden, feminine voice rang out. Before they knew it, a girl had lunged herself towards Makoto, as they were both sent to the wall, Makoto screaming as they did. Hajime, unable to help himself, burst out into a fit of laughter at the chaos that he had just witnessed.

Just then, another girl walked in, sighing. “Sorry about her. That’s her brother, I assme?” she said. This girl had blonde hair, with her fringe held back by two white musical note hairpins. Her deep, beautiful purple eyes shone brightly, like an amethyst.

“I assume it is. You two must be the new students. I was told your class was arriving soon, which is why we’re preparing now. Oh, my name is Hajime Hinata, by the way.” Hajime said, holding his hand out to the girl.

“I’m Kaede Akamatsu!” the girl replied, taking his hand, shaking it. “I’m the Ultimate Pianist! It’s nice to meet you, Mr. Hinata!” “Ahah, just…just call me Hajime.” Hajime laughed awkwardly at her formalities. They turned to see the girl that had tackled Makoto. “Are you okay, Makoto?” Hajime asked. “Y-Yes.” Makoto choked out. The girl above him giggled, and that’s when the brunette noticed her, and who it was.

“K-Komaru?!” Makoto exclaimed. “Surprise! You weren’t expecting me?” she giggled again. “Yeah! I didn’t think you’d enroll here! O-oh, right. Hajime, this is my little sister, Komaru Naegi. Komi, this is my best friend, Hajime Hinata.” Makoto introduced the two. “Nice to meet you, Hajime!” Komaru said, smiling.

Komaru took out her E-Handbook, and opened up her profile. ‘Komaru Naegi, Class 79, the Ultimate Mangaka. Born on May 31st, and the little sister of Makoto Naegi, the Ultimate Lucky Student of Class 78.’

“I’m the one that used to go to Koa Girls Academy! The rest are from Ultimate Academy from Gifted Juviniles!” Komaru explained. Kaede nodded, confirming Komaru was right. “I can’t wait to see you more often, Makoto! I rarely got to see you when you enrolled two years ago!” Komaru smiled. Makoto just laughed. His little sister was fickle and very upbeat, and that’s what he loved about her, even if she did get on his nerves from time to time.

“Kaede? Where are you?” A young, masculine voice called out from behind the door. Makoto and Hajime looked confused, but Kaede knew that voice way too well. ”I’m in here, Shuichi!” she called out.

A young boy walked into the room. His gambogeish gray eyes scanned the room, and grew anxious when he saw the group. His dark blue fringe fell onto his left eye. Kaede noticed this and went up to him, fixing his fringe, whilst giving him a smile. She took his hand and walked him up to Hajime and the Naegis. “Everyone, this is is Shuichi Saihara, the Ultimate Detective. He’s a very good friend of mine!” Kaede introduced him to them.

“Hi, Shuichi!” Komaeu beamed, holding her hand out to him. Shuichi squeaked and hid behind Kaede, his face smushed against her back. “Oh, is…is he okay?” Komaru asked. “He’s fine, Komaru. He just has anxiety, doesn’t he, Kaede?” Hajime replied.

“Yeah. Just give me a minute.” Kaede sighed. She turned around and looked Shuichi in the eyes. “Don’t worry, Shu. They don’t bite. I promise they’re nice.” she gave him a reassuring smile. Shuichi smiled back, albeit weakly. “Shuichi, meet Makoto Naegi, Komaru Naegi, and Hajime Hinata.” Kaede continued the introduction.

“H-Hi. It’s nice to meet you all.” Shuichi stammered, trying to confront his anxieties. “Hello, Shuichi.” Makoto replied. “I have a feeling we’ll all be great friends.”

After a few minutes, everyone in the school had arrived. Makoto’s class, Hajime’s class and the new class, who all spent the first few minutes of the party meeting each other. Hajime saw that his classmate Gundham Tanaka specifically was enjoying making conversation with a very tall man, who looked very gentlemanly, minus the lack of no shoes. Hajime laughed in his mind and wondered how Makoto would react to a man that tall.

Just then, Byakuya Togami cleared his throat to grab the attention of the room. Once all eyes were on him, he began to talk. “Can Class 79 please come front and crowd below the stage?” At his request, Kaede, Shucihi, Komaru and the rest of their class began walking over to the stage, as some other students got to their assigned positions.

Along with Komaru, Kaede and Shuichi were their classmates: Kokichi Ouma, Rantaro Amami, Gonta Gokuhara, Kaito Momota, Himiko Yumeno, K1-B0, Kirumi Tojo, Maki Harukawa, Ryoma Hoshi, Korekiyo Shinguji, Tsumugi Shirogane, Angie Yonaga, Tenko Chabashira and Miu Iruma. They all waited for the speech to begin, some anxious, some excited, and some inbetween. Kokichi calls it being nervouscited.

“And now, please welcome our headmaster’s daughter, the Ultimate Detective, Miss Kyoko Kirigiri!” Byakuya announced, leaving the stage. The class clapped as Kyoko stepped on stage. Clearing her throat, the detective wasted no time getting the speech started. “Class 79, as the daughter of our beloved principal, I, Kyoko Kirigiri, am honoured to officially welcome you all to Hope’s Peak Academy!” Kyoko started. Shuichi was fixated on Kyoko, almost as if he was waiting for her to say something.

“Now, as it is customary for new students, you have an opportunity to join one of Hope’s Peak’s groups here.” Kyoko continued, a few gasps from some of the students. “First, we have a little band group, led by Sayaka Maizono, the Ultimate Pop Sensation. Her right hand man and woman, Ultimate Baseball Pro Leon Kuwata and Ultimate Musician Ibuki Mioda have set up little request letters, and Ultimate Traditional Dancer Hiyoko Saionji will take them once you’re done.”

Makoto saw a little shine in Kaede’s eyes. Seems like her kind of group, he thought. “Next, Dr. Makoto Naegi has asked for a few more assistants for his hospital. His assistant Mikan Tsumiki has the letters for that in the middle, and Chiaki Nanami will collect them once you’re done.” Makoto looked at Mikan and Chiaki. Mikan looked a bit nervous, but Makoto gave her a thumbs up to as to say ‘You’re doing great!” Mikan smiled as she looked at the class.

This went on to explain the Reserve Course, Sakura’s Martial Arts group, Aoi’s sports club, and so on and so forth. “Finally, there’s the matter of my detective agency. My right hand men…uh…man and buddy, sorry, Chihiro, have our agency submission letters at the end of the table. Mahiru Koizumi will collect the letters when you’re done. Now, go along, pick which one you’d like to join, and please, enjoy the rest of the party!” Kyoko finished. The students ran to the table to grab the letter they wanted.

After a few minutes, Shuichi and Kaede were writing their letters, whilst Makoto was studying a few notes he had with him. “What are those for, Makoto?” Kaede had asked. The brunette looked up from his papers. “Oh, these? They’re just a few notes. I’ve got a meeting soon, and I need to know that I have everything I want to say in order.”

“Ah, that’s very organised, actually! I find myself doing that too, sometimes.” Shuichi commented. “Really?” Makoto asked. “Yeah, I remember when I used to work with my uncle, I’d always have notes to remind me of what I have to do of say.” the detective explained. “Ooh, tell us more!” Komaru beamed.

The group of five just sat for a while in conversation. They all laughed, smiled and had a lot of fun getting to know each other. A few moments has passed, and the Ultimate Gamer Chiaki Nanami was running over to the table, calling for Makoto. “What’s up, Chia?” Makoto asked.

“Makoto! The…the meeting!” Chiaki wheezed, trying to catch her breath. “Your meeting with the Future Foundation is about to begin, and we’re almost five minutes late!”

“OH FUCK!!!” Makoto exclaimed, immediately standing up from his seat. “Sorry, guys, I gotta go! I’ll be back in an hour or two!” And with that, he grabbed his bag and began running with Chiaki. “Good luck, Makoto!” Hajime called out.

”What’s his meeting about anyways?” Kaede asked, curious. “Makoto’s had this theory about the human mind for quite a while, and he has a proposition he wants to tell the Future Foundation about!” Hajime explained. “Oh, yeah!” Komaru exclaimed. “He told me a few details about it through text!”

“So, what exactly is Makoto’s little theory?” Shuichi asked. Hajime shrugged his shoulders. “I can’t explain it any better than he’d be able to. We should probably wait until he comes back.”

The rest of the group nodded, as they continued on with the party and getting to know each other. Hajime was a bit worried for Makoto, but then again, it was Makoto, and he always knows what he’s doing…right?

Chapter Text

Tap tap tap. Tap, tap tap, tap. Tap tap—

“Miss Ando, would you kindly stop that incessant noise?" groaned Kyoko. It wasn't easy to file important documents for her agency when that noise bounced off the walls of the rather large, rectangular and futuristic look of the Future Foundation’s meeting room. Ruruka Ando, the Ultimate Confectioner, scoffed. "Well, excuse me for cursing promptness. I’m already late for another board meeting as it is! Where is Naegi?!”

“Calm down, Miss Ando.” Aoi said. “I’m sure he’ll be here any moment now.” Ruruka laughed. “This Naegi guy really doesn’t seem to be the type to be on time. I know Miss Kirigiri says he’s an impeccable scientist, but it’s not impeccable to be late for his own meeting. Such a remarkable lack of style..”

“Comments on style should never be made by those who have none.” Byakuya insulted, making Yasuhiro and Aoi break down into a fit of laughter. Heck, even Kyoko couldn’t help but laugh. Ruruka looked at the blonde with an incredibly offended expression. Byakuya just smirked. Only he was allowed to insult Makoto.

Just then, the door swung open, and Chiaki ran inside, Makoto following. “We’re so sorry we’re late!” Chiaki cried. Makoto was wheezing to no end from all the running. “We completely lost track of time!” she explained.

“No need to worry, Miss Nanami.” Ryota said, understanding. “As long as it doesn’t happen again, we’ll be fine.” Makoto, who seemed to have managed to get his breath back, fixed up his hair, and walked up to the podium next to Byakuya, with Chiaki next to him.

“Well, with everyone here, I hearby announce that the Board of Ultimates of The Future Foundation is now met.” Byakuya announced. “The order of business will be conducted by myself, the Ultimate Affulent Progeny, Byakuta Togami, and the Ultimate Detective, Kyoko Kirigiri.” He looked at Kyoko respectfully with a smile. She returning the expression.

“Proposition 113 is our newest proposal, presented by the Ultimate Lucky Student, Makoto Naegi.” he continued. “Miss Kirigiri will now address the board.”

“Members of The Future Foundation,” Kyoko began. “I believe you are all aware that Class 78’s beloved Lucky Student, Makoto, has become quite the carer in the fields of medicine. But when he’s not doing that, he has been working on a theory about the mind, and he would be so grateful of you all could let him hear him out on it.”

“Uh, yeah, right, I’d rather not hear someone out on a theory about the mind. Especially when science if involved.” Ruruka said, a little skeptical. Kyoko looked at her. “Normally, this would be where I’d ask you, and please excuse my mouth, “Why the fuck did you even consider taking the position of being a member?”, however, since I’m actually nice, I will like to let you know this isn’t the meeting for that.”

Makoto, Hiro, Aoi and Chiaki snorted, trying to contain their laughter. Ruruka, who once again had a look of offence on her face, just adjusted herself in her seat and stayed silent. “Makoto.” the detective turned to Makoto. “You may begin.”

Makoto regained his composure, cleared his throat. All eyes were on him, waiting for him to begin. He began politely. “Hello, Future Foundation. Thank you for hearing me out for this. I really appreciate it.”

“Now, with the help of people such as Yasuhiro Hagakure, Byakuya Togami and Chihiro Fujisaki, I have been studying the mind for about…woah, just 7 months? It feels longer than that.” he laughed at the realisation and continued. “Anyways, digression. It is only recently, that my research has begun to point in a direction leading to beneficial, heck, probably miraculous, treatments!”

“This can change tomorrow for the sake of mankind! And if you wish me to continue, I would like to show you that today.” Total silence was in the room. Makoto took that a sign that they were listening, and continued.

“Now, you, fellow colleagues, are civilized, but I am sure some of you have felt murderous thoughts, but you can control them. You are strong-willed and virtuous.”

“But what of others? Suppose one could control their baser instincts? Isolate them and find a way to dominate the bad and live exclusively with the good? All the negative thoughts and emotions that ruin lives, drive people to theft, despair, violence, murder..."

“What if one could cut off the impulse to feel that way, the stimulus that brings on such thoughts? If one was free from jealousy, fear, and greed and only felt love, hope, and the will to do good in life, imagine the transformation of society!"

“Dr. Naegi, can we dispense with the formalities and move on to the point?” Kyosuke asked. “O-oh, right! Sorry, Munakata…” Makoto laughed awkwardly, before continuing.

“All of us are the embodiment of two distinct and opposite forces: Good and evil, hope and despair. Each of them fight for dominance for our inevitable personality. But, if we were able to separate these two forces, I feel as if we can control the evil within, and ultimately eliminate it from mankind!”

“But…uh…to achieve this? I…I must be allowed to try this chemical on a living human being!” the entire room gasped as he finished that sentence. “What?!” Juzo protesed. “A fucking human?!” “Are you insane?!” Chisa cried.

“Well, maybe! But! I’m sure it’d be for the betterment of all mankind!” Makoto said. “Uhh…I don’t really know, Dr. Naegi…” Ryota spoke up. “This just seems too…risky? What if it didn’t work? W-wouldn’t that cause this human test subject you’re looking for to…to die?” Makoto tried to reply to that, but he couldn’t help but feel that, yeah, Ryota kind of had a point. But still…

“Besides, doesn't everyone here practically know about that one scientist that tried to reanimate and bring people back from the dead?" Ryota asked. “This is nothing like what Frankenstein did!" Makoto retorted. Sonosuke then asked something. “Listen, suppose you are right, Naegi. And you do manage to separate good from evil. What, exactly, happens to the evil?”

“Uhhh….well, it…it simply just—uh—the evil just…uh…” “Uh oh, looks like someone didn’t think this through.” Ruruka smirked. “I did!” Makoto cried. “I’m just trying to find the right words to say, be patient, Miss Ando!” The brunette thought for a few seconds, before finally answering. “T-The evil would just be held back in a cage! Metaphorically, I mean! Sure, it try to break free, but we’d be too strong and brave to let that wild animal loose!

“And do you even have any sort of example for this?” Sonosuke asked. Makoto was actually ready with an answer for this one. “Toko Fukawa! Everyone knows she died from an apparent suicide, and it was more or less because she lost to insanity! So many like her are doomed broken souls, trapped in an asylum of their mind, and sometimes left to rot for the lack of a plan! I can prevent stuff like that from happening again! I can save many lives, if you give me just one person!”

"Dr. Naegi, you're treading on dangerous grounds. In legal terms, I'd say extremely unsound!" Juzo remarked, giving Makoto a scolding look. "It sounds to me as though you're playing with fire. You aren't God! There is such a thing as ethics! Just what kind of fucking doctor do you think you are? Some kind of 'saviour' for your friends?" “I'm not claiming to be anything—!”

“Because judging by your behaviour here, you obviously can't differentiate the two, let alone fucking separate basic free will!" Juzo interrupted. Makoto was silent for a moment, before he answered calmly. "Sakukura, I’m a scientist with morality, but I have never once claimed to be a moralist like Munakata.” Juzo and Kyosuke both raised their eyebrows at him.

“Uh…Makoto?” Chiaki suddenly spoke up. "I have always respected and encouraged your enterprise. Heck, Mikan looks up to you for that, and we both hope for your successions in the future.” She began, sounding a little flustered at the second part of her words, before stopping herself from rambling. "B-but…even I can admit that this is…kind of going a bit too far." Makoto bowed his head down, and was starting to get really frustrated with the way things were going. But, he kept his composure.

He looked back up to address the rest of the foundation, his expression looking practically desperate at this point. "Listen, I understand that whether this request is accepted or denied is solely up to you." he started. "But if you decided to say 'no', then the world will be the one to lose--not me. I beg of you! Grant me your approval, please!”

“I think that's quite enough of your ranting, Dr. Naegi.” Ruruka shouted. “We agreed for The Future Foundation and Hope’s Peak to have a hospital! We are here to save lives, not to risk them!” “Miss Ando is right! This quote-unquote 'research' is just absurd!" Kyosuke continued, before Juzo added, "Never in my life have I seen someone come forward with such an insane proposal! You're basically asking us to let you experiment on the mind!” A few more voices spoke up against the proposal following Juzo.

In answer, Makoto opened the small box he'd brought with him. He took out a vial. It appeared to be holding a liquid, but said liquid was glowing red. He held it up for everyone to see. "You have to understand. This is the chance to take charge of our fates." He began. "Deep down, you all must know tomorrow will be too late! There is one rule in life that we cannot alter; The only thing constant is change.”

"Oh for God’s sake, enough already, Naegi…Kirgiri, he's your scientist! You tell him!" Ruruka demanded. Kyoko paused, looking over to Makoto. The two made eye contact, Makoto's expression looking to be pleading. It was an incredibly long minute, before Kyoko finally gave her answer. "Whether Dr. Naegi's proposal should be accepted or not is not up to me, Miss Ando. It is up to all of you. I suggest that we start voting now. Togami. You know what to do."

“Well then," Byakuya sighed, looking at Makoto, who looked defeated already. It seemed like he already knew what the answer was going to be. "Members of The Future Foundation: Your verdict please. All those in favor, say ‘aye'." Byakuya paused, giving time for anybody to say ’aye'. No response. Makoto looked like he was about to break down.

After waiting a second longer, he then said, "All opposed, say 'nay'." Right as Byakuya finished, the room erupted with a single 'nay' in unison. Even Byakuya, Hiro and Aoi had said nay, which made Makoto feel like he just got stabbed in the back. However, that didn't keep Byakuya from noticing the two who didn't say 'nay'. "Detective Kirigiri, Miss Nanami?" The two looked to him, then looked to Makoto, then each other. Then, they both said they abstained.

The brunette sighed, as Byakuya continued. "With seven votes to none, and two abstentions, Dr. Makoto Naegi's extraordinary proposal has hereby been rejected." Just then, like a twig, Makoto’s mind snapped. He slammed his hands against the desk, and screamed. “Dammit! Fuck you!!! Damn you! Goddamn you all!!!”

The entire room was silent, some of the members shaken with fear. “If I EVER need any further justification for my experiment, you have just provided it!" "Look, Dr. Naegi-" “No, YOU look, Munakata!" Makoto interrupted, making eye contact with him.

“Look at yourselves! I've shown something you don't understand, and it makes you fearful. Mix that with anger that I know you possess not only towards my proposal, but towards any other person you deem crazy, and you're showing us your darker side!" The foundation fell silent. “I have presented you with the opportunity to control and completely eliminate the evil that's inside each of us, and yet you rather not so much as humor me!?" Makoto told, before seeing Juzo open his mouth again to speak. The boy cut him off, as he grabbed his box and began heading towards the door.

"I'll show you!" he proclaimed. "I'll show you all! It can be done! You hear me?! I'LL SHOW YOU ALL!!" And with that, Makoto slammed the door. Kyoko sighed, and turned to the foundation. “Is it…okay if I leave?” Kyoko asked. Byakuya nodded. “The meeting has already been adjourned, Kyoko.” Kyoko nodded her head and began walking out the door.

Byakuya, Aoi and Yasuhiro all looked worried, which was something for Byakuya. “I hope Makoto’s okay…” Aoi said. “Me too, Hina.” Hiro replied. “Me too.”

*******************************************

Makoto slammed the door of his bedroom and threw himself onto his bed. He began violently punching his pillow and throwing it to across the room multiple times before putting it back in it’s original place.

"Oh, yes, just go the further mile and completely EMBARRASS YOURSELF, Makoto!!” he cursed himself. “You just HAD to do it then and not now! Ugh, I’m such a fucking idiot!”

On the other side, Kyoko was in the hallway, trying to find Makoto. She assumed he was hiding somewhere, either to calm down, or to cry. Just then, she heard a loud but muffled scream. The voice sounded masculine and very young, like a voice that hadn’t changed since middle school. Kyoko smiled, walking over to Makoto’s room. She knocked on the door, waiting for his response.

“…What is it?” Makoto said through the door. Kyoko got worried. He sounded…depressed. “Makoto, it’s Kyoko. Can I come in, please?” A dejected “Yes” was heard, and she opened the door, seeing the brunette curled up into a ball. “Everything out of your system, now?” she asked, placing her hand on his shoulder.

“Not quite.” Makoto sighed. “I’m such a fool…why did I think they’d say yes? What if they’re right? Am I really just letting my dreams misguide me?” It wasn’t long before Makoto broke down into tears, beating himself up for his own foolishness. “I haven’t changed one goddamn bit…I’m still that worthless Lucky Student from before…”

Kyoko suddenly pulled Makoto towards her, and she just held him in her arms for a while, allowing Makoto to let out his emotions. It was kind of hard for her, since Makoto’s loud, agonised cries were very painful for her to hear, which she never had a problem with before. She figured it just meant she cared about him so much than others.

“Stop beating yourself up. You have a bad habit of letting people get into your head. What if they’re wrong, and you’re right?” Kyoko said, comfortingly. Makoto looked at her, confused. “You’d never know if you can really show them all you’re right if you give up now. Hell, I think it’s too late to give up when you’ve come so far, right?”

Makoto’s grip on her tightened. She tightens her embrace on him too, whilst stroking his hair. “I know you’ll find a way, Makoto. Should you ever lose hope like this again, remember this. I’m still on your side.” she held his face in her hands as she said this. She suddenly saw Makoto smile again, in the same way she always saw him smile. He wrapped his arms around Kyoko’s shoulders.

“Thanks, Kiri.” he said. “You’re the best.” Kyoko smiled back, and hugged him. “You’re most welcome, Koti..”

Just then, Kyoko and Makoto’s phone buzzed in their pockets, making Makoto squeak. Kyoko giggled as she took her phone out, the brunette doing the same. Both of them had gotten texts, Kyoko got one from Mahiru, Makoto from Hajime.

‘Kyoko, where are you?! It’s almost time to give out the letters to our new members!’

‘Hey, Makoto, you okay? I hope so! Can’t wait for you to come back!”

They looked at each other. “Let’s get back. I think your crush and friends are missing you.”
Kyoko said. Makoto blushed, as Kyoko got up. “Kiri! I don’t have a crush on Hajime!” he cried. She laughed. “Don’t worry, Koti. You’re secret’s safe with me.” Makoto sighed. I guess it’s fine if one person knows, he thought.

The detective held her hand out to Makoto. He took it, and they both began walking out of Makoto’s room, and back to the Class 79 welcome party that was still happening in the dining hall.

Chapter Text

Makoto and Kyoko made it back to the dining hall. They both smiled and departed from each other, Kyoko to her agency, Makoto to his sister and friends. He was still down in the dumps after his proposal was rejected, so he figured his friends would cheer him up.

“Oh shush, Kaede!” he could hear Hajime. “I’m gonna kill the next person I fucking see at this point…” Makoto smirked and walked up behind Hajime. He placed his hands on his shoulders, making Hajime yell, and whipped around to see him, his face immediately turning red. “Hi, Hajime! Great to see you!” the smaller brunette smiled.

Kaede was in the middle of laughing her ass off, most likely at the chaos that had just ensued. “G-great to see you too!” Hajime spluttered. Makoto laughed and hugged Hajime from behind, making the brunette blush even more.

“So, how’d the meeting go?” Komaru asked. Makoto’s face froze up for a second, as his eyes fell, saddened. “No…no! They didn’t!” Komaru gasped. Makoto nodded his head. “They did…they said no…” he said, trying not to cry. “Oh no! Makoto! I’m so sorry!” Kaede said, placing her hand on his shoulder. “Don’t be. It was my fault. I didn’t think anything through, and I let myself get too emotional.”

“Hey! Them saying no gives you absolutely no right in beating yourself up over it!” Hajime told him off. “He’s right, Makoto.” Shuichi agreed. “They didn’t understand what you obviously did!”

“They set themselves up as people of medicine…people of knowledge, but they’re not…” Makoto growled, and then “They’re hypocrites…they’re fucking hypocrites! Every single one of those fuckers!” he shouted with pure venom. Kaede tried to calm him down. “Well, yeah, I’ll take your word that the Future Foundation are hypocrites, but they are very powerful hypocrites! You should exercise more caution.”

“I can’t afford caution!” Makoto cried. “I’ve worked way too hard on this experiment! I can’t give up now, and I will not let those bastards hold me down!l”

“Actually, speaking of your experiment, Makoto,” Shuichi suddenly spoke up. What exactly is it you’re working on?” Makoto’s expression immediately shifted from anger to intrigue. “You’re all actually interested in it?” he asked. The other four nodded.

“Well, I can’t give you the exact details, but it has something to do with the human mind, as well as the human soul.” Makoto started explaining. “You see, I believe that we’re all beings of good and evil, of hope and despair. We’ve all had some sort of thought one way or another that can be seen as immoral, right? So I’ve been wondering…maybe there’s a way we can cut off the evil entirely!”

“That actually doesn’t sound like a bad concept. A world completely ridden of despair doesn’t sound bad at all!” Kaede said. “Exactly!” Makoto exclaimed. “But the foundation doesn’t think the same way as me…they…they thought I was a madman.”

“But you aren’t!” Komaru cried out as she heard this. “You’re a good man!” “I know I am…” Makoto sighed. “But I don’t know what to do now. Kiri says I need to keep on going, and I intend to! But…I just don’t know how I’m going to accomplish this.”

“Don’t worry, Makoto. I know you’ll find a way.” Hajime said, smiling at him assuringly with his hand on Makoto’s shoulder. Makoto smiled back at Hajime. “Thanks, Hajime.” he said. Just then, two students came up to the group. They were students from Shuichi, Kaede and Komaru’s class: Kirumi Tojo, the Ultimate Maid, and Korekiyo Shinguji, the Ultimate Anthropologist.

“Shuichi, Miss Kirigiri wishes an audience with you, me and Kirumi.” Korekiyo said to Shuichi. “Really? Why?” Shuichi perked up. “We’re not sure, but I feel as if we should go and see.” Kirumi replied.

“Just give me a moment, guys.” Shuichi excused himself from the group for a moment and walked up to Kyoko. “W-what do you need from us, M-Miss Kirigiri?” Shuichi asked, a little nervous. “Shuichi, there isn’t any need to call me that. You can just call me Kyoko, y’know? Especially given how we’re on the same team.”

Shuichi, Korekiyo and Kirumi’s eyes widened at that last sentence. “…I’m sorry, what?” Korekiyo muttered, a little bit surprised. Kyoko smiled at the three, and continued. “Welcome to the detective agency, you three. I’m happy that I’ll be able to be working with people as talented as you three are. I’m proud of you three already.” she smiled.

Shuichi, Korekiyo and Kirumi just stood there, shocked. They didn’t expect to be accepted into the team, nor did they expect Kyoko’s motherly attitude towards them. It makes you wonder: is this really a detective agency, or an adopt traumatised kids agency?

“We promise, we won’t let you down. If you need any assistance, please, let me know.” Kirumi smiled, as she curtsied. “Humanity is a beautiful thing, and to see it corrupted by evil, is truly tragic. I promise, I will do all I can to help purify this world once again!…what I mean is, I’m here to help.” Korekiyo said, in his usual, dramatic-like fashion. “Y-yeah…it’s an honour to work with you.” Shuichi stuttered, still starstruck by the situation.

“I should hope so Shuichi. After all, after much consideration, I decided…I’m in need of an apprentice and…since we both have the same talent, I figured you’d be perfect for this.” Kyoko smiled, holding her hand out to Shuichi. Shuichi was even more stunned by her words, but Shuichi immediately held Kyoko’s hand, as if to solidify their new partnership. “I won’t let you down, Kyoko!” Shuichi said, determined. Shuichi ran back to the group, who all looked happy for him, having seen and heard everything. “I knew they’d allow you in, Shu!” Kaede smiled, hugging him.

“Good job, Shuichi.” Hajime smiled. “Yay!! Go, Shuichi!” Komaru clapped. Makoto took a moment to congratulate Shuichi. He didn’t know why but…this made him feel kinda worse. He was happy for Shuichi. Of course he was. But, given how Shuichi’s proposition to join Kyoko’s agency was accepted, whilst his proposition for his experiment was turned down, it kind of pushed the knife further into Makoto’s already shattered heart. He couldn’t help but feel a little jealous. But, he didn’t let that waver how happy he was for Shuichi. “Well done, Shuichi!” he beamed.

“I can’t believe it! I’m a part of the agency, and in the same team as the brilliant Dr. Makoto Naegi!” Shuichi cried. Makoto laughed awkwardly. “I-I wouldn’t say brilliant.” “Why not? I think that experiment idea you told us about was cool!” Shuichi said, smiling. “Hell, I think you can kick those hypocrites as you call them up the ass!” This actually made Makoto feel a bit better, laughing at Shuichi’s comment. “Thanks, Shuichi.” Makoto smiled. “I hope I can. Y’know, kick ‘em up the ass.”

Hours went by, and Makoto was getting a bit tired. As the welcome party reached it’s climax, the group began to gather their things, ready to leave for a well-deserved rest. Komaru knew where her dorm room would be, but Shuichi and Kaede had to be shown their by guides, those guides being Celestia Ludenburg and Peko Pekoyama.

Hajime walked over to Komaru, with his concerns set on Makoto. Hajime cared about Makoto more than he could ever imagine him to. And he didn’t like when Makoto would often overwork himself, or end up stressing himself out. So, he decided to see if Komaru could try help. “Komi, when you get to your dorm room, make sure he goes straight to bed." Hajime told her. "If he's really wanting to work at once, he's gonna need all the rest he can get. “I'll give it a shot," Komaru sighed, "But he's almost as stubborn as you are sometimes.”

Hajime sighed as well. Makoto was a bit stubborn, that was true. But…pushing the stubbornness aside, Makoto’s kindness, determination, and overall caring and selfless nature…that’s what Hajime loved about him. Hajime walked over to Makoto, wanting to hug him before they parted.

“Well, see you tomorrow, Makoto.” Hajime smiled, wrapping his arms around Makoto. Makoto smiled back, and hugged Hajime back. “See you tomorrow, Hajime.” Kaede, Shuichi and Komaru all saw the two embrace, and Shuichi could have sworn that he almost saw them kiss by accident, given the way they held and looked at each other. And with that, the group parted ways for the night.

Makoto and Komaru walked through the halls, Makoto on his phone, trying to find Shuichi and Kaede’s contacts (he already had Hajime and Komaru’s), so they could talk to each other through the phone. Komaru was doing the same, only she had to do it for all three of them. As Makoto entered his room, and placed his bag down, he noticed something from the corner of his eye. There was a small box on his bed, as well a small letter. He couldn’t recognise the handwriting: must have been from one of the new students, he assumed. He picked up the letter and began reading it. The letter was from Tsumugi Shirogane, the Ultimate Cosplayer.

‘Hello, Makoto! I decided to make some nice things for you, your class, and Class 77 as a thank you gift for the welcome party! I hope you like yours! - from, Tsumugi 💙”

Putting the letter down, Makoto opened up the box. Inside was a green jagged-cut jacket, with red drawstrings and the number 55 on the back. It was cool-looking., but it was also too big for him. He sighed, but he also smiled, because in all honesty, he preferred his usual outfit better. A zipped-up, dull green hoodie with an image of a red gas mask in a circle printed on the back of the hood, with a red stripe along the zipper that went all up to the top of the hood, and an open black jacket with gold buttons with a pin shaped like a four-pointed star overlaying a crescent moon pinned to the lapel of his jacket, and red sneakers with white toes.

“Makoto?” a sudden voice said from behind. Makoto squeaked, turning around in shock. He took a deep breath after seeing who it was. “Oh, it’s only you, Komaru. Sorry.” he laughed awkwardly.

“What’s that?” Komaru asked, leaning over Makoto’s shoulder to see what he was holding. “Tsumugi gifted it. Y’know, that cosplayer girl from your class? Only problem is that it’s far too big for me.” “I could take it~” Komaru teased. “No! It’s too big for you as well, Komi!” Makoto cried. “Awww, come on, big brother!” Komaru whined. “No, Komaru. It’s mine. I just need to make it fit me. Somehow.” the brunette rolled his eyes at his sister’s persistence. “Maybe it can serve as a blanket too!” Komaru joked. Makoto laughed, “Yeah, I don’t think I’m the right height for it to cover my entire body. Oh!” Makoto looked down at the box again. “And she has clothes too! Clothes that are…also too big for me. Eh, at least she tried.”

Komaru giggled. “Maybe you can give them to Hajime~ You’d probably faint upon seeing him in anything you’d deem attractive~”

“H-hey! I-I don’t—wait, how…how did you know about my…y-you just came here two hours ago!” Makoto spluttered, blushing and confused. “Makoto. It’s fucking obvious. You almost malfunction completely whenever he shows you affection. It’s just as well I know you’re bisexual, otherwise this’d be an awkward coming out.” Komaru deadpanned.

Makoto sighed, knowing she was right. He was downright terrible at staying in the closet, especially when it came to his love for Hajime. It had been like that ever since he met Hajime. He met him during the welcome party for Class 77. He first befriended Chiaki, Hajime’s female best friend, and Chiaki decided to introduce him to Hajime. The situation was practically love at first sight for Makoto.

Makoto was just a boy that loved showing affection to those he loved physically, but he was a bit too physical when it came to Hajime. Hajime didn’t care though, so that’s all that mattered to him. Still, he wondered…how long would it be until Hajime realised his feelings for him? Did Hajime feel the same way? Makoto suddenly noticed he was zoned out when Komaru started talking to him again.

“Hey, uh…when are you going to get some rest?” Komaru asked. “Hajime said I’d have to send you straight to bed but…I hate forcing people.” Komaru was kind of ashamed she wasn’t listening to what Hajime said. Makoto laughed awkwardly as he realised he was zoned out, but he immediately recovered and said, “Well, I’m probably gonna go to bed when I finally finish the experiment.” “Ooh! How far do you need to go before it’s done?” Komaru asked, curious.

“I’m in the final stages of preparation! All I need to do is add one more ingredient to the mix, and then, it’ll be ready!” Makoto said, winking. He pulled out the vial from earlier and showed it to her. “Here’s what it looks like so far.” Komaru was enamoured by the colour of the chemical. It was a deep, crimson red. “Ooh! So pretty! I bet this could help millions in the world!” Komaru beamed.

“That all depends if it actually works.” Makoto laughed awkwardly. “This…is actually my seventh attempt…as embarrassing as that is to admit. But, I’ve got a good feeling about this one!”

“It will work!” Komaru encouraged him. “And when it does, that Future Foundation won’t know what hit them!” Makoto smiled and laughed at his sister’s silly little expression. “Thanks, Komi.” Makoto smiled.

Komaru smiled back. “Well, I’d better get myself ready for bed. But, Makoto. Don’t overwork yourself. And be careful. Remember, you have to think about the consequences too.” “Komaru, if all I thought about was the consequences, then I’d be riddled with dread and anxiety, and I’d never accomplish anything. But, I will take the consequences into consideration.”

Komaru appreciated how Makoto was going to think about the consequences. Makoto was often the type to run into things without thinking. So to see this was a nice change of pace. “Well, goodnight, bro!” Komaru smiled, as she left to go to her room. “Night, sis.” Makoto smiled, waving goodbye as she closed the door. Makoto sighed, sitting on his bed, contemplating his next move.

He wasn’t going to give up on the experiment. Not after what Kyoko told him, and especially not after Hajime, Komaru, Kaede and Shuichi had encouraged him. “Toko…I’m so close to helping people like her…people who dwell in the same hell that she did.” Makoto muttered. He sighed, having seemingly made a choice. Whether it was the only choice left or not, was debatable, but it was still a choice. With that, Makoto got up, and began to pick up a shoulder bag. He suddenly realised it was probably cold outside, so, he decided to take that jacket Tsumugi gave him, and put it on, pulling up the sleeves so they didn’t cover his hands. He threw the bag over his shoulder and walked over to the door.

Makoto looked nervous, but he tried to encourage himself. “Put aside your fears, Makoto…you have to. This is the moment.” Makoto took a deep breath, with that, he exited the room, walking over to his lab, which was near the end of the Class 78’s dorm hallway. Makoto had made up his mind. There was only one person he could use as a test subject…and that person was none other than….

Himself.

Chapter Text

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WARNING: This chapter contains the following: Body horror, vomiting, blood, and disturbing imagery. If you have emetophobia, please either proceed with caution or just skip the chapter. Discretion is advised.

*******************************************

Makoto’s lab wasn’t far. It was located near the cabins of Jabberwock Island, which is where the dorm room for Hajime’s class, Class 77, were located. It was nighttime, and the air was cold. It was a good decision to put on that jacket Tsumugi gave him, as it provided Makoto a bit of warmth from the cold night air. Eventually, Makoto reached a little bungalow with a green door. This, was his lab. Makoto had asked for a place where he could try his experiments, so Jin Kirigiri, Kyoko’s father and the headmaster, told Makoto there was a bungalow located on Jabberwock Island that he could use. Makoto didn’t tell the others about the lab when he was explaining his theory, which he felt dumb for, but he was going to tell them soon anyways.

Makoto took a deep breath, and opened the door, turning on the lights, revealing the lights shining down on his lab. The laboratory was crowded with tables filled with vials and potions and all kinds of scientific equipment. The floor was wooden, which made cleaning up any messes or mishaps a lot more easier for him. Makoto began to walk up to the desk, whilst opening his bag to get something out of it: a small, green journal, with a four leaf clover embedded in the middle.

Just then, excitement for the upcoming experiment overtook Makoto’s senses, as he started to laugh, allowing a few childish twirls to control him as he approached the desk, placing the journal down onto it. Flipping through the pages of the journal, Makoto took out a pen and began to write, reading aloud as he did.

"October 13th, -" he checked the digital clock on the desk, to check the time. "11:49pm. I started this journey alone, and I must finish it alone. My proposal to try and get a human subject for this experiment was rejected by The Future Foundation. They said that I was playing God. They called me a madman…a freak. I was so close to just giving up but…Kyoko helped me realise that turning back isn’t the option, and that it’s too late to turn back. And the encouragement I received from my sister and my friends was enough to lift me back up. This is the hope I want to achieve by performing this experiment.”

"Therefore, I realize I have no other choice but to use myself as the the test subject of the experiment. I will take one week to record the potency and side-effects of the chemical. After this night falls, I will show the foundation that this can be done. “

Putting the pen down, Makoto took the vial from the bag, uncorked the lid, and poured the liquid into a beaker, getting ready to add the last few ingredients needed for the chemical to be ready. “There. Now, for the finishing touches. I hope it’s enough.” And so, Makoto got to work.

This was Makoto’s seventh attempt, which he labelled as MN7 (Makoto Naegi’s 7th attempt). The first and second attempts were tests to see if it was actually possible, attempt three blew up in his face due to his luck issues, attempt four was a complete failure, attempt five was going somewhere, but had to be scrapped, and attempt six made him realise that he was almost ready to test it out, but he just needed one more crucial ingredient, albeit it giving a mild reaction. “Heh, who knew all I needed was just a little more salt?” Makoto laughed at himself.

The ingredients for his experiment were all given to him by Seiko Kimura, the Ultimate Pharmacist. Seiko was one of the few members of the Future Foundation that Makoto actually got along with, and one of the only ones he didn’t consider to be a hypocrite. Hell, he could have clearly seen her hesitation in turning down his proposal for his experiment. As much as he hated having to do this behind her back after she was one of the members that rejected him, he had to do it. Either way, he still detested the foundation, mainly Munakata and Sakukura, for thinking he was crazy. And Makoto wasn’t going to let those hypocrites drag him down, and make him give up so easily.

Makoto mixed in the salts with the rest of the liquid until the crimson red colour became a bit more pronounced in colour. It took him seven months to perfect it, but Makoto was 99% positive that he had the right ingredients for his creation. Makoto was mixing up all of the ingredients into a small beaker. And after a few moments…it was done. Makoto placed the liquid into a vial, and just took a look at it. This was it. Makoto’s 7 month journey could either end here, or it could continue onwards for another few months.

Makoto had a look of pure anxiety on his face. He was going to test it on himself after all. But…should he even do that? What if something happened? He thought back to what Ryota Mitarai told him at the meeting. “What if it didn’t work? W-wouldn’t that cause this human test subject you’re looking for to..to die?” Makoto hated to admit it, but..Ryota kind of had a point. For all Makoto knew, this could kill him. But while that thought did terrify him, Makoto also knew that his previous tests were all non-lethal. The chemical being non-lethal was a key element he took into consideration when making the chemical.

But then, his thoughts went over to what Sonosuke Izayoi asked him. “Listen, suppose you are right, Naegi. And you do manage to separate good from evil. What, exactly, happens to the evil?” That answer Makoto gave out was incredibly half-assed, and was an explanation he came up with last minute. He didn’t actually know. And yes, while the whole point of the experiment was to see what happens, it still made Makoto really scared to do this, because this was an untested formula, meaning he doesn’t know what’s going to happen to him. Makoto was…scared. He so desperately wanted to change his mind about this experiment. But…he couldn’t. He couldn’t back down now.

And so, with that in mind, Makoto took a deep breath, trying to push back the fears he felt. This was the moment after all. There was no place to hide now. Makoto put on a brave face, and held the vial up in the air, bracing himself for the worst.

“And now…” Makoto started. “To put an end to despair, once and for all!!” And as soon as he said that, Makoto held the vial up to his mouth, and drank the chemical. He placed the vial back down on the desk, and just stood there, waiting for some sort of reaction to occur. But, almost nothing was happening. Makoto was worried that this might have been another failure, until he suddenly felt an odd warmth form in his chest.

“Fuck….” Makoto laughed a bit. “This…this actually feels kind of nice.” He took a deep breath, as he grabbed the journal again, and began writing down the side effects he was experiencing.“11:57pm. My temperature has risen exponentially, and I can feel a lot of warmth in my gullet. There’s a strong heat starting to spread throughout my entire veins, and it…kind of burns.”

Makoto suddenly broke down into a fit of laughter. No doubt a side effect. He spent a few moments just laughing like he had just remembered an incredibly stupid joke Hajime had told him a few moments ago. He let out a sigh as he regained his composure. “There’s a very strong feeling of euphoria. I couldn’t stop laughing for a few minutes. It’s actually made me quite lightheaded. But minus that, in terms of my behaviour, nothing has happened to me yet.”

Makoto put the pen down, taking a deep breath as he placed his hand on his head. His body felt so…weird. Like he had just taken a full drink of alcohol, and was now tipsy as hell due to the consequences. No doubt an effect from the chemical. But there wasn’t really anything he could do about it. The die was cast. All he had to do now, was wait. Wait for any sort of reaction to occur, and prove his theories true. He would prove the Future Foundation wrong. No matter the cost. Even if that cost ends up being his life.

Makoto sat down by the windowsill and just looked out up at the night sky. The moon was full and bright, and stars dotted the dark sky. Makoto could suddenly feel his eyes begin to feel heavy, as they began closing, when he suddenly jerked himself awake with a yawn. That's odd. When did he get so tired? Well, considering how it was 11:59pm, his drowsiness became clear and obvious. Besides, it didn’t really seem like the chemical was working. So, with that, Makoto got off the windowsill and began getting everything sorted out before going to bed. He picked up his journal, and the jacket Tsumugi gave him, and walked onwards to get his bag, another yawn escaping his mouth.

But, just then, right as he was about to write off MN7 as another failure, the bell outside rang twelve times. Midnight. And as if on queue, something began to happen. Makoto stopped dead in his tracks as he suddenly began to feel a strange and mildly painful feeling starting to form inside of his stomach. “Ugh…what the?” he groaned as his right hand clutched his stomach. It wasn’t a good feeling, and it seemed to be getting worse, as suddenly, the pain increased tenfold. Makoto gasped sharply as he dropped the jacket and journal, both of his hands clutching his stomach tightly.

“AHHH!!! F-fuck!! What the hell?! What is this?!” he cried out, as he started to panic. He immediately picked up the journal from the floor and ran over to the desk, opening it up again to try and write down what was happening, which wasn’t easy, because his hands had started to shake.

Sudden pain in the stomach, and a scorching feeling spreading throughout my skin. I-I think something’s happening, but I don’t know what! I can’t explain it! This pain is too consuming, I feel as if I’m being swallowed whole and going insane!

And in that exact moment, Makoto’s entire body exploded with agony. His legs were starting to shake uncontrollably, making it hard for the brunette to stay standing. Makoto reeled, staggered, and clutched at the desk, holding on, trying to keep his footing, with injected eyes. But his efforts were all in vain, as another, dreadful wave of pain crashed into his body, as if it were a tsunami. Makoto screamed out in agony, as his body flew to the floor, the poor brunette thrashing around the room in an intense agony.

Loud grunts, moans, and cries of pain escaped his mouth, as he tried to get back up again, but the pain seemed to be holding him in place. Makoto gagged as he felt the liquid of the chemical starting to leak out of his mouth, and he tried desperately to prevent it, but every time he swallowed it back into his system, the liquid would just continuously rise up in his throat, despite his attempts to push it back.

Eventually, Makoto couldn’t hold it back anymore, and was coughing violently as the liquid poured out of his mouth, as he clawed at his throat, trying to stop the flooding liquid. It eventually stopped, leaving a puddle of the chemical’s liquids on the floor, and Makoto’s mouth and hands covered in said chemical.

“O-oh God!” Makoto grunted, as the pain continued to worsen. “W-what’s going on?!” Makoto held himself, shaking violently. His entire body was aching, and his breathing was unstable as the pain continued. Every muscle in his body was throbbing with pain, and he could feel his own skin crawling, causing his shoulders to twitch every once in a while. His heart was beating out of his chest, pounding against his ribcage like a trapped bird.

“W-what…what’s happening to me?!” Makoto cried, as another wave of pain hit him, making him curl up into a ball on the floor, desperately trying to shut out the pain as tears began to form in his eyes. “It hurts!!! Oh God, this hurts so fucking much!!!”

Makoto was full on whimpering in pain, as it continued to intensify. He was in so much pain that it’s honestly a surprise that he’s still alive, and that he’s been able to hold out for this long. “S-someone, please!! Help me!! I-I can’t….I can’t take this anymore!!!” Makoto called out, trying to call out to anyone for help. But there seemed to be no reprieve from whatever was happening in his body.

“HELP ME!!!!!” Makoto screamed out. And then, that was it. He couldn’t hold it in any longer, and soon enough, Makoto let out an incredibly loud, bloodcurdling scream of pure agony. Every scream of pain was worse, panicked, pained, and louder than the last, and Makoto’s body thrashed around in agony, kicking his legs about as he tried to find any sort of relief from the pure torture he was experiencing. But nothing seemed to be working, and Makoto was starting to get terrified.

“HELP!!!! SOMEONE PLEASE HELP ME!!!! I’M SO FUCKING SCARED, I CAN’T TAKE THIS ANYMORE!!!” Makoto screamed out, hoping his voice was loud enough for someone to hear him. And like a miracle, someone actually heard him. He could hear Komaru’s footsteps, as she frantically ran over to the door, banging on it loudly.

“Makoto?! What’s going on?! I can hear screaming?! Are you okay?!” her voice rang out, laced with panic over what could be happening to her older brother. “K-Komaru!!! G-get…get Kiri and her agency!!! P-please!! I…need…help!!! HURRY!!!” Makoto cried out. Komaru immediately obliged as she ran to get Kyoko and the detective agency, hoping and praying that her brother was going to be okay.

Makoto was starting to lose hope that he could stay conscious any longer. His body was in so much pain. His hair was messy due to the struggling, the chemical was leaking from his mouth, making him gag and cough, and he even threw up the liquid from the chemical a little. His body was throbbing with agony, and it seemed like at any given moment, he would faint from the pain.

Makoto tried to reach his hand towards the door, but it proved to be difficult, for he could barely move, his body throbbing in pain when he tried to move. Makoto’s vision started to blur, his head completely disoriented as he felt his eyes starting to shut. He was about to faint from the pain.

“S-someone…please….h-help…m-me…” Makoto choked out, his body about to give out on him completely. “I…I don’t….I don’t want…to die…”

And just like that…

Everything went black.

*******************************************

Makoto’s body was lying on the floor. His eyes were shut tight, and his breathing was still. The moonlight shone onto his lifeless body. He wasn’t dead. Of course he wasn’t. But his unconscious didn’t know when he would awaken.

Just then, Makoto’s chest began to rise and fall, his breathing return, and a small moan left his mouth. His eyes started to flutter open, his eyes making contact with the ceiling light. He hissed and clawed at his eyes, turning over to his side to avoid blinding himself even more than he already had there.

As he removed his hands from his eyes, though, Makoto noticed something. His hands…looked really pale. And a lot bigger too compared to the rather small hands he had before.

He examined his hand, and realised that his clothes were now far too small for him, which was odd, as the green hoodie he usually wore fit him perfectly a few moments ago. Although he did feel them tightening during the convulsions.

“What…what happened to me?” he thought aloud, only to immediately slam his hands against his mouth afterwards, his face changed from a look of confusion to a look of fear. His voice…it wasn’t his. It still resembled him in some ways, but it sounded more…raspier. More…sickly.

“A mirror…” he said to himself quietly, before repeating himself more loudly. “Where’s the mirror?!” As he got up, he immediately realised that everything suddenly looked really small. Did he get…taller? Well, that was certainly the least of his concerns in terms of this odd change. He ran over to the mirror, but fell over when he got to it. Being tall definitely has it’s pros and cons, he thought.

He pulled the cloth that was covering the mirror off, and almost screamed when he was met with…a very ghastly sight.

His entire appearance…it had altered completely! His hair had turned from a desaturated brown to a sickly white. His once hazel eyes had become a grayish green, and his skin had gotten more paler, and it didn’t even look like it belonged to a living human being. Nothing looked like Makoto Naegi anymore…

“W-what…oh my god, what the fuck happened?!” he cried, as he looked down at his hands, terror written all over his face. “W-what is this?! Why…why do I look like this?! O-oh God, no! This…this can’t be happening!!”

He had his head in his hands now, unable to believe what had just happened. Someway, and somehow, the chemical had completely altered his appearance. He didn’t even know if this was meant to happen, or if the experiment went horribly wrong.

Suddenly, he felt something in his mind shift. He removed his hands from his hair, and looked down at them again. His face had a look of terrified confusion, but then, he could feel a small smile form on his face. But nothing about the smile looked gentle at all. In fact, it looked rather…manic.

A few small and quiet laughs started to emerge from him, and the laughter was slowly but surely starting to get louder. Soon enough, he was roaring with crazed, maniacal laughter. His laughter grew in both intensity and insanity, and it didn’t seem like he was going to stop any time soon.

“Ohhh, this is amazing!!! I feel so alive!!!” he said in between his crazed laughs, as he brushed his hair with his hands, his laughter so maniacal that you’d think it belonged to a crazed and deranged villain.

“Oh, I feel so free!!!” he shouted. “Oh, if only the Future Foundation could see me now! What would you think, Munakata?!? Huh?!?! What would you think?!?!” His laughter was completely deranged now, and a look of manic and evil was evident on his face. He took a deep breath, and his laughter came to a halt, as he admired this new look of his.

“Oh, I could do almost anything now!” he sighed, his face with an expression that looked as if he was planning something. He suddenly frowned, as he had come to a realisation. He looked down at what he was currently wearing. His old clothes, which were way too small for him.

His green hoodie exposed a small part of his stomach, and it looked like it was squeezing the life out of his chest. His jeans had almost the exact same situation, he could very clearly see his socks, not to mention he could slightly see his boxers peeking out too. It was a relief he wasn’t wearing his blazer, that would have just been hell.

He can’t leave looking like that. He suddenly remembered the clothes Tsumugi had given him. “Hmm…I wonder.” he thought to himself. He immediately went over to the box, and after ditching his old green hoodie, he put on the white shirt. It fit him perfectly now! A smile formed on his face as he began to put on the other clothes.

The white shirt he wore had a red design on the front, and it seemingly resembled two interlocking hooks. He now wore plain black jean that had a wallet chain with a skull charm on them, and wore pale brown shoes, each fastened by two zippers.

“Oh, this is perfect! Well…almost…something feels like it’s missing.” he pondered for a moment, before his eyes locked onto the green, jagged cut jacket that he had dropped onto the floor when he was stricken with pain. He smiled, and grabbed it, and after close examination, he put it on. “That’s much better.” he smirked, as he laughed again. He then put his original clothes in the box where his new outfit once was. He knew this state wasn’t permanent. He was going to turn back to normal, so he decided to just keep them for when he did.

“There. I should hope that someone like Kiri notices this and puts them back into my room.” he said to himself. He suddenly noticed a really fancy looking knife on one of the desks. “Oh? What’s this?” he smirked as he picked it up. It was a knife Makoto would use for things like opening boxes or other things, but he knew that there would be other purposes for this knife, more than Makoto could ever imagine. And so, with a little giggle, he pocketed the knife in his jacket. “I hope I get to use it tonight~ After all…this is my first night of pure, unrestricted freedom…” he laughed darkly, as he began to walk to the door, ready to head out into Towa City.

“I’m so sorry, Dr. Naegi…” he said, as he looked back for a moment. “I almost forgot to turn out the lights. Please forgive me…” And with that, the lights turned off, and the boy ran out of the laboratory, and into the streets of Towa City, ready to relished and embrace the feeling of being alive.