Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Hey, you clicked on my fanfic! That's really cool of you! :3 Here are a few things you should know in advance.

1)This fanfic is written with the idea of a fem! Reader. I promise you guys I try really hard to keep it gender neutral but at some point it gets more blurred. Certain interactions with specific characters would be different dependant on gender, take for instance TeruTeru. I literally can not imagine writing in the perspective of a male, which leaves me with female. Hope this helps!

2)This fanfic has slow updates. VERY slow. I think of it frequently but writing for Danganronpa in 2024 is hard, as the fandom is barely here anymore. I appreciate anyone who interacts with this as to be honest it does give me that guilty kick and make me want to update again. But y'all with barely any motivation surely you understand why I'm so lazy :sob:

3)This fanfic is inspired by like. Every other great incomplete Nagito fanfic on ao3. I love Nagito fics! I feel like there's a huge pattern of isekais with them which is always a fun little twist. :D

I promise this fanfic will be finished eventually! I have great concepts and ideas behind it. I hope by the end of this there's at least some one reading it. I can't promise this is gonna be Shakespeare but I can say that I'm down to give it my best shot!

Chapter Text

Falling. Falling. You're falling.

Why are you falling?

You raise your arms above you, reaching for what you think to be the sky as you sink into the murky depths of what you can't describe. Lowering down into what you think to be an endless abyss, too scared to even cry out for help as you shake your head around, finding only blackness and darkness. You try to stand, but even as you do so there's nowhere to lay your feet on, left to drown only further and further into the unknown.

You can hear the sound of a small static, a small crackle trying to make itself known. You wonder if the broken voice is trying to talk to you, trying to make out words as you crane your ears back, eyes slightly widened due to how surreal this whole experience is.

Why are you here? Is this a dream? What's going on? Are you awake right now? Have you passed away? It's these questions that only lead you to uselessly try and reach the surface again, tears finally streaming past your eyes and in a defiance of gravity floating upwards despite your best attempts to follow and chase up with them.

"-hear me. #@nw!.2 can't hear me."

You can feel your breath hitch. you're not alone, and that knowledge solely is enough to ignite something inside you, setting up a flame that you come to name as you're slowly picking up fragments in events to come. What has lit inside you is hope.

"#### working! it's-"

The voice fades out and you can't help the panic that comes with that. You open your lips, noting how chapped they are as you speak, a dry and hoarse tone that would usually leave you embarrassed leaving your throat.

"Where am i? Where.... am i?"

You don't receive a response. you can't help but succumb to the growing feeling replacing the one that only just arrived, shutting your eyes and letting yourself drift off. You'll wake up soon, for some reason you seem to know. though it seems there is nothing you can do at the current moment to free yourself of this predicament.

You fall and fall and continue to keep falling.

And through that, the faint feeling of despair has already begun to crack itself inside your hope.

.

Chapter Text

You're scared when you wake up. 

It's easier to recognise how you feel you note. You squint your eyes, cringing at how bright it is. the sun. You're out of the void. 

You're surrounded by something. Some things? A few of the blobs begin to move out of your blurred vision and you start to realise how loud it is, covering your ears to try and block out the sounds of multiple sounds mashing themselves together, blinking as colours begin to make themselves more vibrant, more known. your view is beginning to define itself, which you're happy to know as you notice that you're mostly alone now.

There's a light touch on your shoulder, and blinking away the last feelings of sleep you come to realise the girl seems oddly familiar. She tucks away a strand of purple hair behind her left ear and you can't help but notice how choppy the ends are.

She must have cut them herself, you muse. She looks down at you, and a feeling lodges itself inside your chest, and you can't help but lean your head back again. you feel weak, and she seems to know this as she begins to speak, her voice hesitant and soft.

"A-are you okay? You just appeared passed out a-and I don't mean t-to say you can't take care of yourself. I'm not trying to b-be annoying or anything, I just w-wanted to m-make sure you're feeling a-alright!"

You stare up at her, slightly annoyed at her inability to speak clearly, though you can't say you don't appreciate the notion. though through her kindness there's something about her that you can't ignore, or rather something to do with you.

You know her name. You recognise her.

Unable to find it in yourself to speak, you find yourself nodding, lifting yourself as she supports your back. Mikan Tsumiki. She had been an... interesting character to observe through the screen of your Nintendo switch. only now she's undeniably in front of you, breathing and staring at you with a worried, and yet slightly scared gaze.

"Y-you shouldn't strain yourself too much! Try to t-take it slow, I'll stay with you for the time being to make sure you're stable. I-if you don't mind that is. It would just make me feel a lot better, seeing as I-I'm the ultimate nurse and such."

You clear your throat, nodding at her as you begin to speak.

"of course not. I really appreciate it."

Your voice is better at least. The tension in her face starts to slowly slip away, a more relaxed expression making its way onto her features. It suits her more pleasantly you note.

"T-thank you. Can I ask what your ultimate is?"

Ultimate.

Can she ask what your ultimate is? Your ultimate?

You don't suppose you have one. Her brown eyes stare at you with curiosity, a finger placed on her chin. you don't suppose you should lie. but do you really want to let yourself be seen as a loser? A talentless *loser*? 

Your eyes wander around the island, meeting the back of someone's head. You suppose a little white lie wouldn't hurt.

"I forgot. quite strange it is."

Her eyes slightly widen, though you can tell she's trying to hold back some of her shock as she responds.

"You forgot? that is strange, every other student remembers theirs. I don't suppose you have a concussion or something? perhaps I should examine your head. Oh n-not that I'm trying to accuse you or anything! I just think it's a bit weird- I'm not calling you weird I just-"

You cut her off swiftly, lightly flapping your hand.

"I understand what you mean. rest assured, I take no offense. I know it's a bit weird, but thank you truly for your clarification. I... appreciate it"

This only seems to shock her more, but she seems assured at the least, giving you a small and thankful nod.

"Thank you. Uh, if you'd like we could explore the island together? As we do that could you maybe relay to me what happened before you passed out so I can come to understanding what might have caused you to a-and maybe try to get the situation more as you weren't in the classroom with us."

You weren't? You suppose it makes sense, and your thoughts linger back to the time you spent in that spaceless void, trapped and alone. You can't tell her about that though, how can you expect her to understand what even you don't? But you can't let her know you're not from here. Wherever 'here' is. You don't want anyone to know that you shouldn't be here, at least nobody who can't help.

"I was walking into hope's peak academy. I'm assuming you're also a student there? Anyway I don't remember much but I do remember seeing a room. I'm unsure of what happened next though. I don't recall walking inside, or anything of the sort."

She nods in response, and you can't help feeling slightly accomplished. Your lies are believable at least. You're running on improv but maybe somehow you'll be able to make this work? Worm your way correctly in the code and be overlooked? She's speaking again but you can't help but let your mind drift away again.

Danganronpa. you're in Danganronpa 2. it's been a while to say the least. But why? Out of anywhere why would you end up here?

Your eyes flitter around, taking in your surroundings. The game hasn't really started yet, has it? You can note other students walking around, observing the subtle things they do, the looks they give around unseen.

What brought you here? You should be asking yourself that, right?

But somehow you can’t bring yourself to ponder around it for too long. Before long mikan has noticed you aren’t really paying attention, though it seems she actually has something she deems important to say, placing a hand on your shoulder.

“Are you sure you’re okay? I-I’m not trying to be a bother but you still look a bit out of it?”

You glance at her for a moment. She’s nice at least, though you can very clearly remember her being batshit crazy in the game. you’re glad her memories aren’t back.

“I’m fine. I’m just now realising that I still haven’t introduced myself. I’m [name].”

“Oh! I can’t believe I skipped past that. argh... I’m so sorry. I’m Mikan Tsumiki, but you’re free to call me by my first name.”

There’s a silence between the two of you. You can’t help but think you’re missing something, but she seems to think the same too, her gaze wandering away from yours.

“There’s a supermarket. We should go inside.”

You nod. She sounds slightly more assertive now, though you can’t find it in yourself to mind, following her as she leads you towards the entrance, skimming past shelves. You stare at mikan for a moment, though seeing her focus is elsewhere you make your way to a shelf, picking out an aloe vera drink. You make your way back to her, finding she seems to be in a conversation with none other than...

Hajime and Nagito. Which to be fair you didn’t find too unnatural, as you lightly scratched your head trying to recall the contents of the conversation they had had in game.

“-And... I went through all the trouble of preparing 5,000 different topics to discuss after conversation!”

Ah of course.

“It’s okay if you take your time and remember slowly. We’ll wait as long as it takes. We’ll wait for you forever, if that’s what it takes.” Nagito responds, and staring at him you can’t help but think of how... boring he is. for the time being, you suppose it’s for the best though.

“Huh... aaaaaah!”

You’re content to let their conversation continue, making your way through the shop silently as you search through the shelves more. Not much finds itself to be of interest, though looking through the food brands you find that at the least you shouldn’t have too much problems with craving foods too often.

 
“I can’t remember the last time I made any friends... other than [Name] I mean. Are we friends? Ah not that you actually want to be friends with me.. wait where even is she?”

“[Name]? I thought we must have introduced ourselves to everyone by now.” Hajime mutters, and you can’t help but think about how tired he must be by now. Mikan starts to look around, and as she makes eye contact with you mid-sentence, you smile, inching closer though slightly nervous.

“You w-were passed out and she was as well. She’s- oh t-there you are! Where did you go?”

You stand besides her, a small ding! sound going off as you finally pause by her side. Hajime takes out and checks a small tablet – crap you forgot its name – and stares at it for a moment before putting it away in satisfaction.

“I’m Hajime.”

He finally greets you, a calm expression on his face. You nod, focusing your gaze away from him as you meet Nagito’s, his eyes skimming over you in a slightly sceptical and yet annoyingly kind expression. You offer him a nod as well, to which he returns it, introducing himself.

“And I’m Nagito. It’s weird, I don’t seem to recognise you from the website either.”

“Website?” You ask, tilting your head.

“The Hope’s Peak academy one. I thought I must have skimmed past Hajime’s one but I don’t think I saw your name on their either.”

Of course you wouldn’t be there, you thought. You could only ponder on the majority of the questions you had still unanswered, and Hajime seemed to pause at a realisation, his voice gaining your attention again.

“[Name]? You’re not in the e-handbook either.”

There’s a moment of silence.

It’s called an e-handbook! Oh, but the slightly tense silence should be your main priority now, but you can’t help but remain unbothered. but clearly the awkward situation is starting to get to mikan at least.

“I did find it weird that we haven’t reached a hope fragment yet.” She says, staring at you and you offer her a thoughtful hum, trying your best to appear confused but really you can’t help your thoughts at bay.

So you’re really not supposed to be here? It doesn’t make sense, and the explanation as to how you even wound up here is one you need to solve as well. but you suppose for now, surrounded by other – slightly sweaty – teens they wouldn’t be the best person to ask.

Damn. The park really did have a warm atmosphere. You stare back at Hajime.

“How am I meant to respond to that? Surely you don't expect me to know more than you do.”

Another small moment of silence. Can you be blamed? You suppose Nagito must be thinking along the same lines though, as he asserts himself into the conversation.

“A witty response, as expected from the ultimate...”

He’s waiting for you to finish his sentence. He stares at you with an expectant look in his eyes, his words trying to subtly coax you into formulating an answer. You look away from him for a moment to look at Mikan, who’s also waiting for you to explain yourself, before looking back at him. Come a few seconds later, she seems to realise you don’t intend to respond, hastily saying something in your place.

“It seems she’s still in a state of s-shock as to be expected of course. For now, they don’t seem to recall their ultimate.”

By this point they were all staring at you. you couldn’t help the small anxiousness that begin to surround you at their unflinching gazes, avoiding eye contact as you try to fumble up with some kind of response-

Ding dong, Bing bong.

“Was that a school bell just now..?” Hajime asks, trailing off as he frantically looks around. In the corner of your eyes you can make out a small monitor starting to come to life, and Nagito follows your gaze, before nudging Hajime lightly.

“Hajime. look at that monitor over there.”

He looks over and you all wait in anticipation as the bear you can easily recognise as Usami starts to speak.

“Congratulations everyone! It appears that everyone has finished collecting the hope fragments!”

You can feel yourself starting to become slightly sick, noticing the way Nagito gives you a blunt side eye, as Mikan starts to fidget lightly with her fingers. It seems Hajime is the only one giving Usami his full attention, and she continues to drone on.

“I’m *sniff*... I’m so happy... soooo... I’ve prepared a present for everyone that’ll make you all veeeeery happy! I apologise for the trouble, but please gather at the beach! tee hee hee! may shining hope be with you all!”

Before you can embarrass yourself by calling out to the screen it switches off, leaving yet another small tense silence between the four of you. Hajime opens his mouth to speak, but just as quickly Nagito is already cutting him off.

“No matter! She said to meet at the beach, right? How about instead of overthinking this we make our way there? I’m sure Usami has some sort of explanation. Hajime, let’s go on ahead!”

You feel as though it doesn’t take too long for them to leave, Hajime scurrying on to follow Nagito. You almost roll your eyes, finding it pathetic to witness as you stare back at Mikan, who seems even more nervous than she was before, though she still tries to speak and assure you.

“J-just as he said I’m sure it’s nothing! L-let’s head over to the beach!”

You sigh. At least with this you know that Usami probably hasn't even realise you’re here. After all, this whole hope fragment situation? You only hope you’ll be able to speak to her before Monokuma can corrupt the files.

You wonder if you’re doing the same thing? You’re definitely not supposed to be here but surely it can’t simply be some kind of mess up of code to so randomly entrap you here. You’re here for a reason, you’re sure of it. You’re here for some kind of reason and as the beach starts to come into view you promise yourself one solid resolution.

You will fulfil it. you must, because somehow something tells you that if you don’t you’ll wind up deleted, before you can willingly find your way out. After all, relating yourself to Junko placed yourself in the same fate as her.

Chapter Text

“You guys are the last to arrive. What are you dilly-dallying for?”

It hadn’t taken too long to walk to the beach. By now though, with all the working the day had put you through your legs were already starting to slightly ache. You stared around at a few of the other students but you couldn’t see any complaints being made. Ah it was going to be an eventful day. You just hoped the cottages lived up to how they seemed in the game.

Amidst your thoughts you had missed a small chunk of conversation. Coming back to attention you could make out the other students beginning to discuss their observations, zooming in as Pekoyama discussed the blocked bridges.

“So we don’t get lost..? Is this island really so big?”

You wondered the same. You were still unsure as to how you were here, so the need to reconsider your ideals of reality was beginning to catch up to you. Just where were you? But you snapped yourself out of the unwanted thoughts, tuning back in to the conversation at hand as it began to steer to a more relevant path.

“All of you are fools... I can’t believe nobody has mentioned the most serious truth.” Byakuya said. He met everyone’s eyes with a level look, before focusing his attention onto Chiaki for a moment – who had started to speak.

“...The most serious truth?” She asked, and he let out a small sound of disapproval as he began to speak again.

“If no one here has realized it, you’re all bigger fools than I thought.”

“What did you say, you fat bastard? Don’t be talkin’ all big and shit!” Fuyuhiko interrupted. You cringed the irritation in his voice, which was shrill and loud as he faced Byakuya with a heated glare. Had he been this angry in the game too? You supposed experiencing it in reality really must have enhanced things such as this.

“Small dogs shouldn’t bark so loud.” Byakuya retorted coolly. You supposed you agreed, but you couldn’t hold back your desire to spot beating around the bush. You stared at Hajime who seemed slightly lost in thought, and at the other students who were watching the argument. You resisted the urge to roll your eyes.

“Uhm? Would you mind going back on route to what you were saying about ‘the most serious truth’? Have you discovered something significant about the island?” You urged him. You almost slipped you thought, having had to stop yourself from saying his name before you had even been told it.

“...” He stared at you for a moment, before offering you a respectful nod and turning to face the rest of the class.

“Have you all gone to the park that’s across the bridge?” He asked.

“The park with that weird bronze statue and all of those creepy animals, right?” Hajime responded, and you were only happen that you had managed to steer the conversation back onto track.

“When I saw it, I remembered a story I’d heard before. There’s an island in the Pacific Ocean, a beautiful island paradise where summer never ends... it consists of a central island surrounded by five different islands...it’s also said that five holy animals symbolize each of those surrounding islands.”

“Eh..?” Hajime mutters, and eyeing him you can see the gears begin to start to form.

“That island’s name is... Jabberwock island.” Byakuya finally completes.

“Could this island be...?” Nagito trails of, slightly lost in thought as his eyebrows begin to furrow.

“Jabberwock island? Is that... the name of this island?” Hajime finishes, and if the moment hadn’t been so oddly tense you perhaps you would have laughed at how alike to siblings they seemed.

“Still there is something on my mind. In fact, according to what I’ve heard, Jabberwock island is already...” for a moment he didn’t complete his sentence. There was a quiet moment as he debated sharing his train of thought, before immediately deeming it as useless and shaking his head to himself. “...Never mind.”

Nekomaru was the next one to speak.

“Hold it right there! That’s a rather incomplete story you’ve told us.”

“No need to shout. I’ll let you know once I obtain more information.” Byakuya was calm, and he didn’t let any underlying feelings show. You had to respect that.

“Meh, I don’t care what this island’s called Nikoniko island or Papua island or whatever...  doesn’t change the fact that we all gotta live here, right?” Akane added, to which Ibuki made herself the next one to share her thoughts.

“Living together on this tropical island sure is exciiiiting! I’m super looking forward to it!”

You couldn’t help but notice the conversation was starting to turn sideways. You couldn’t make out how talk of this was relevant, but Nagito seemed to think the same thing as he spoke up.

“There still is one question I think we have unanswered. Would you like to try solving it [Name]?” He asked, turning towards you.

Oh god. You were being directly addressed now. You picked your nail with your fingers, staring back at him, though Hajime was quick to add onto his words.

“You’re talking about how she isn’t in the handbook right? I did find that weird.”

Nobody asked! From the corner of your eyes you can make out Chiaki eyeing you with an intense gaze and the pressure of the situation is starting to get to you. You open your mouth. You close it again. You-

“That would be my fault! Between preparing the island and getting everything ready I unfortunately forgot to provide [Name] here with a handbook and log her onto the system. Here you are, I’m terribly sorry that it’s late! Aaah my first day as your teacher and I’ve already messed this up!”

Usami. She stared at you with a stitched smile and you leaned down to take the handbook from her soft paw. You held onto it for a moment, which she didn’t seem to mind, sinking you nails into the soft cotton of her that held the handbook, before pulling away with a grateful smile on your face.

“Thank you Miss Usami. I really appreciate it.”

She gave you a small bop of her head, and Byakuya seemed to be irked by the interaction as he started to speak again.

“Forgetting to provide a student’s information and monitor things correctly. What if your actions place everyone here in danger?” He asked her.

“Th-The word ‘danger’ is a bit much! I wouldn’t do something like that! Uhm... the number one rule of friendship! Mistakes are caused sometimes, but it’s about learning to move past them!”

She was cute. You imagined sparkles glowing around her as she spoke.

“Usami is right. I understand how we all feel but I think we should all calm down a little.” Nagito said, though his words seemed to be more centered towards Byakuya, who only offered him a small ‘Tsk’ in response.

“F-for now... as long as we don’t do anything weird, it seems there is no danger. There are a list o-of rules in the handbook.” Mikan said, and you were glad she was growing more confident at least.

“And as long as we gather the hope fragments, we’ll be able to get off this island soon.” Chiaki helpfully added. You were glad to see the conversation start to take a lighter turn at least.

Byakuya finally seemed to understand the reasoning though, making sure to present himself as the bringer of the conclusion. “There’s no other choice but to believe... for now that is..” Ah. Of course he wasn’t sold yet. In your opinion Byakuya was the character who was the least stupid.

“Anyway, Usami! What’s this present you mentioned in your announcement earlier?” Ibuki asked.

“Ah, that’s right! Well, of course I didn’t forget...” She did, but you let her continue anyways. “Love! Love! This is it! Don’t be upset! I’ve prepared one for you all, so don’t worry!”

You couldn’t help the small laugh that escaped as small straps started to be handed out.

“... What is this...?” Nagito deadpanned and you held back a little snort as you responded.

“Not a fan are you?” You asked, and he turned to face you as Usami began to speak again.

“Pfft, teehee! It’s an Usami strap! If you squeeze the tummy, it talks.”

You pressed the stomach of yours, smile brightening at the words it said in response.

“I’m Usami... Magical Miracle Girl <3 Usami. I’m an itty bitty girl who’s sweet like milk!”

“Isn’t it cute?” Usami asked. “Love! Love”

The other students didn’t seem to think the same though, complaining as they began to toss their straps onto the floor. You had found it fond how Chiaki had risen to defend the small creation by calling it cute, and soon the conversation was diverted onto the topic of a fun motive, Usami bringing out the swim bags. You pocketed the Usami strap though, unwilling to toss away what you could consider to be a ‘souvenir?”

“That’s right. I have swimsuits for everyone. Well, school swimsuits actually. I hope that’s okay.”

Oh yeah. Would you be swimming? Hmm, you thought to yourself as they continued to talk.

“A-are you telling us to go swimming...? In a situation like this...?”

Haha. Hajime was really beginning to sound like the nerd emoji.

“It’s not like I’m ordering you guys to swim or anything. It’s just, if you wanna go swimming, you can...”

“Th-There’s no way I’m going swimming! There’s no way anyone would be so thoughtless as to go swimming in a situation like this...” Hajime exclaimed, trailing off as he was interrupted by Ibuki letting out a squeal of excitement.

“YAAAHHHOOOOOO!”

“Eh?”

Yeah. You were asking the same thing Hajime.

You could hear a small chatter start to begin as a few students seemed eager for the chance to enjoy the weather and relax. You wondered if you would feel the same? Supposing you were meant to be here, you were meant to be a student of Hope’s peak academy. Would you be more like Hajime, hesitant and on guard? Or would you find yourself eager for an escape, and grab at the chance for an escape with blind eyes?

You stared at Mikan, who starting to make her way to the hotel to change. You caught eyes with Nagito who was just wrapping up a short conversation with Hajime, and he offered you a smile as he walked over to you, to which you tried to return.

“Do you not plan to swim?” He asked, and you shook your head. You’d rather not embarrass yourself knowing they’d barely have time to step in the water.

“I’m alright. Sea water doesn’t hold the best effect towards my skin. Haha, I’d rather try to avoid the risk.” You said. In your defence it could be true! It didn’t exactly cause wonders...

“You and Hajime are quite similar you know.” He said. Huh?

“Neither of you remember your talents. To be honest I was a bit sceptical of you but talking to you now I see there really was no reason for me to be. I guess I’ve just been thinking too negatively. But I get the sense that both you and Hajime must have truly astounding ultimates, hence why neither of you seem to remember.”

Eugh, you could sense the bluffer from a mile away. You internally cringed. Was he trying to set you guys up or some shit? But you offered him a pleasant smile and a small laugh nonetheless, rubbing the back of your head.

“Thank you Nagito. I appreciate it.”

You could see a small twitch in his eyebrow as you said his name. Oop. Not part of the plan [Name]!

“Haha I skimmed past the handbook. Not a fan of loud places? We match in that department at least.”

And it was true. You had found yourself skipping past a tab or two amidst some conversation trying to refresh your knowledge and find any contradictions. He seemed to have remembered spotting you doing so though, his expression instantly becoming relaxed again as he gave you an easy smile.

“I never even considered going through the student profiles on there again. Maybe it’ll have something about your ultimate there if Usami has finally yours by now?” He asked, taking his out. You leaned closer towards him to peer down at the ipad, trying to ignore how close you had suddenly made yourself. He didn’t seem to mind though, swiping through it until he eventually found a section with your name, that for sure hadn’t been there before.

[Name] [Last Name]. Your height, weight, chest size and blood type was there. Your cheeks were slightly heated up now seeing so. So everyone had access to this via their own handbooks? Sheesh. But that wasn’t what you found to be the most important.

Likes: Hope. Dislikes: Despair.

It was enough to make you pause, you fingers twitching lightly to hold onto the corner of the ipad. You could see Nagito gripping it a bit tighter with his fingers, and contrary to what you had assumed about not having an ultimate it seemed you were wrong. And strangely enough it provided itself as another puzzle piece, something you couldn’t find it in yourself to argue with.

You pinched yourself. You banged your head lightly against Nagito’s shoulder. You scratched your forehead with the tip of your nail.

Nagito didn’t comment on it. Neither did you.

For there, imprinted besides the word ultimate was dreamer.

You were the ultimate dreamer.

-

Nagito hadn’t given you too much of an outwards reaction to it. He had put away his handbook, without checking whether or not you had finished reading your page, which you had – thank you very much. Given you a somewhat eased smile.

“That’s something. The beach is starting to look emptier now, so I’m going to go change. As I told Hajime, I’d be happy if you came along. No pressure though.”

And that was all he said before he turned around and left. You watched him fade away until he was out of sight.

“You’re not gonna swim [name]?” Hajime said, pulling you out of your thoughts. You stared at him, a bitter feeling left in your mouth from the interaction you had just faced with nagito and you faced him with a small frown on your face.

“Were you just listening in on our conversation?” You asked, and your eyes focused on the small cower he gave you. Good. You didn’t know why you were here but you doubted it was to be here with a social rejected turned corrupt.

“N-no! I was talking to Fuyuhiko whilst you were talking to Nagito, I swear I didn’t hear a thing!”

You gave him a small roll of your eyes. “Relax Hajime, I don’t bite. Fuyuhiko did you say? I didn’t peg him for the speaking type.”

A small blush started to form onto Hajime’s face and he cleared his throat, nodding. He opened his mouth to speak, though found himself interrupted by Usami.

“Ah! Speaking of which, everyone has returned!” She exclaimed. You listened in on the lively chatter of your ‘classmates’. It felt wrong to think of them as such, and as it crossed your mind that perhaps you were acting too comfortable for someone in your shoes you noticed a few of the students dressed in swimsuits start to enter the sea. You stared back at Hajime, who had a puzzled look on his face, noticing that he didn’t even seem to be taking in what Usami was saying. You brought him back to earth with a hesitant hand on his shoulder, and a nod.

You didn’t mind nudging him to his canon choices.

“I think they’re waiting for you, y’know? Nagito keeps glancing back at you.” It was a lie. You hadn’t caught him staring since you had found your page together in his handbook, and staring at him from where you stood with Hajime you wondered if his smile would remain this dull during the rest of the game. The rest of the game-!

“You’re right. Usami hand me one of those swimsuits-“

And the sky began to darken.

You couldn’t stop the dread that began to pool up inside of your stomach, crossing your arms over your chest in an attempt to ground yourself as you mentally face palmed. Shit [Name]. You had lost your only chance to intercept with the killing game!

Had you just been gifted the wits to speak to Usami before canon events began to take place, such as Nagito and Hajime introducing themselves to everyone, and the small argument between Byakuya and Fuyuhiko you were sure you would have been able to prevent the game! You would have to speak to her directly at some point, but being caught up with Mikan and being the odd one out had clearly clouded your head before you could warn her about the virus in the system.

Usami was starting to panic now. You gripped your head. Surely you could still do something now? But what if it didn’t work out? That would immediately paint you as even more suspicious than you already were, and who’s to say that Monokuma wouldn’t try to hurt you?

The monitor buzzed to life. And from there you knew that no matter what you did, to Monokuma, or rather to Junko Enoshima? The game had already begun.

“Ahh, ahh...! Mike check! Mike check! Ah, ah! Ah, ah! Can you hear me, can you hear me?”

There was a brief silence.

“Puhuhu... surprised? You were totally surprised! ...Riiiight?” He gave the mic a small tap, a sound coming out of the monitor. “Now then, sorry to keep you all waiting for so long. Let’s leave all this worthless entertainment behind... it’s time for the main attraction! You guys better hustle over to Jabberwock Park!”

“Could it be? This voice...!” Crap. So everyone was scared. Thanks for being the responsible adult Usami. Your fear is toooootally helping this whole situation ten times more. Just how crappy was this system? Not only were you not meant to be here but the announcement of Monokuma had begun.

“I-if this is... Oh, this is very bad. I gotta do something... It’s all up to me!” She took off to Jabberwock island and Hajime weakly called after her before turning to face Byakuya, which the other students were also starting to do. You reckoned you had at least thirty seconds to start dashing towards Usami before she reached the island.

You chased after her, pushing hair out of your face and covering your chest as you ran. How you couldn’t wait to down your aloe vera drink when you got the chance, which you had stored inside the large pocket of the hoodie you had been dressed in since you woke up here. It was quite plain, white and oversized, paired with black leggings and a black and white pair of jordans. You hoped you at least wouldn’t be expected to refund the money for them.

“Usami! H-hold up please. We need to speak!” You called after her, and as you uttered your last sentence she turned towards you. You picked her up as she paused, resuming a walk towards the park.

“[N-Name]?” She stuttered, but you gave her no room to argue shaking your head.

“You must surely already realise something is up. I’m here, Junko’s here, we need to come together if we don’t want this to all fall into shambles.” You said, and she silenced herself, looking into your serious eyes.

“I don’t know why I’m here. I have no idea but all I know that can help you is that she wants to start up another killing game, and with the way things are already set out, she is going to succeed. You are going to die. Chiaki is going to die. A-and I didn’t get the chance to tell you so at this rate, I may as well be taken as well.”

You stared down at her. For a moment neither of you spoke, but she was quick to defeat the silence.

“I had a feeling this was going to happen. When I noticed you here I requested one of my higher ups do a scan through the java and code here, but by then it was too late! Aah, this was all my fault! B-but who are you? A-and just what do you know?”

“I know everything. About Makoto, about the future foundation, the remnants of despair. A-and I have a clear idea of what’s going to happen here if events go untampered with. I just don’t know how I’m here, or why.”

She looked back up at you, and through her cotton eyes you could see a glimmer of something more serious start to shine.

“Your code said a few things. The general information for your person was hidden between some binary which is why I was able to add it into your report card. I hate to have baited you out somehow but I had no choice as it was already engraved into the program. Seeing as Monukuma, or rather Junko as you understand has hacked her way into the program she has no way she can harm you directly, unless she uses one of the other students...”

She trailed off in thought, and you nodded.

“As a motive. Would I really be worth all of that trouble though? I-I’m the ultimate dreamer. Was there not a single thing in the code stating what that means?”

You were approaching the island now, and you held onto her soft fur a slight bit tighter. Her ears twitched lightly as she responded.

“She who finds herself unable to dream shall be destined to eternal slumber. That’s what was listed besides your name. But besides that it says nothing directly about your talent.”

And as you set her down and entered the park with her you found yourself already knowing just what this meant.

This was a dream, though to you, you supposed it more of a nightmare.. And if you didn’t find out the truth behind it you’d be unable to exit. Usami nudged her body against your legs and turned her body slightly to point towards someone else who had just entered the park.

Hajime.

You were destined the same fate as him.

As Usami parted from you with a small waddle and parting words you couldn’t quite make out, that igniting feeling started up inside of you.

Hajime had changed his fate, and you’d do the same. You’d best this stupid game and once you awoke you’d refund your stupid ass money and delete tumblr.

-

The moment was tense as everybody departed to their rooms. You were tired.

It wasn’t much too different from what you knew of the other rooms, but you did notice a few things that Hajime hadn’t had whilst you played as him.

You could make out a Nintendo switch on your bed, and as you turned it on you were disappointed to find that it was almost out of battery. There was only one game, but it was enough to make you groan in frustration, slapping your head.

Twilight syndrome murder case. You’d been given a later motive, and you couldn’t help but wonder why.

Eighteen percent. You wouldn’t have time to play through it without a charger, which you debated finding now but decided against. The first murder was approaching, and it was only a matter of time before you needed to speak one on one to some of the people around you, Byakuya coming to mind as you thought this.

You noticed a different array of clothes as you searched through you wardrobe. You were pleased to say the least, you’d be able to switch up your wardrobe every so often. You’d go out in style if you had to. You changed yourself out of your clothes so you were left wearing your undergarments, picking up a stray blanket that had been left stashed inside one of your drawers and setting yourself onto you bed.

Just how long had it take for Nagito to set up his scheme and how were you going to intercept this? These were the thoughts that lingered through your mind as you fell asleep, your hair sprayed out onto the pillow you rested on.

You weren’t pleased to up to Monokuma’s loud voice as it spoke from the monitor, shoving your head into your pillow before rolling over and getting up.

You showered, changing into a stray outfit you had found inside of your wardrobe. You were glad to have been given the option to style yourself, you thought as you sorted out your hair, turning around to leave.

“No no! You’re to stay right here!”

You let out a small shout at the shock of finding Monokuma right besides you, refraining the urge to kick him as you lightly fanned yourself. He stared up at you, and you found it in yourself to speak.

“Monokuma? What do you want?” You asked, and he gave you a small giggle in response.

“Brighten up buttercup! I wouldn’t come here over a boring reason.”

“I’m inclined to believe that you and I share very separate ideals of fun. Why are you actually here?” You asked, patting down your head.

“You already know don’t you, dreamer.” He said, and suddenly the air seemed to be more still. But you had expected this. You weren’t surprised.

“I know a virus when I see one. You didn’t actually think you could hide the truth from me, did you? I know all about how you’re not from here, in fact I know exactly where you’re from!” He said, and you took in a sharp inhale, sitting onto your bed.

“You’re taunting me. Tell me what you want already.”

“I want you to keep silent. It’d be a shame for something to happen to you when you’re not even supposed to be here, wouldn’t it?” He said, and in a surge of confidence you gripped your bed, responding.

“You can’t hurt me, I already know that much. You just as anyone have to respect the rules of the programme. This isn’t your game we’re playing. It’s the future foundation’s one.” You said, and he seemed annoyed now.

“I can’t hurt you, sure. But who’s to say one of the other students wouldn’t. Listen to me [Name]. I don’t need you, so be assured that I’m speaking in your best interest.”

“You don’t need  me but nonetheless I’m still an inconvenience to you. You have your tricks. I’m allowed to have mine.”

A pause. You waited with baited breath. In a way, you were challenging him. And he knew this.

“The students here are interesting. I suppose all I need to do is provide them with a motive.”

And then he was gone. Oh boy.

Chapter Text

You don't think to head towards the restaurant until you hear a knock at your door. cracking it open to find Mahiru staring at you with a stern expression. She has her fists balled on her hips in an almost comical way, and you can't help the way your eyes linger from her vibrant red hair to her camera. She's quite pretty at least. You wonder just how many freckles she has.

"You must be really unaware if you're still in your dorm! We're all in the dining room, what are you still doing here? And hey, adjust your skirt will you? It looks messy from this angle."

Her voice isn't as mean as her words make her seem, and other than her presence being sternly overwhelming you don't think she'll be too big of an annoyance for you. You do as she suggests as you leave you room and offer her a bashful smile, brushing your skirt off after lightly twisting it.

"Thank you Mahiru. I'm sorry about my lateness. I woke up a little late. Thank you for coming to get me."

You receive a distracted nod in response and she suddenly waves her arm, shouting towards Kazuichi who you notice just leaving his cottage.

"There's the other face I was looking for! Kazuichi, what do you think you're doing, walking about this late? We were meant to be in the hotel restaurant about twenty minutes ago!"

She glances over at you again, nodding her head in his direction as she walks towards him and you follow, watching Kazuichi as he scratches his head and responds.

"Sorry about that. Let's get headed now."

It's a bit of an awkward walk there. As Mahiru leads the way Kazuichi walks besides you, turning his  head as he starts to engage in a light conversation with you.

"H-hey, I'm Kazuichi Soda as you might already know. I don't think we actually got introduced yesterday, but I'm the ultimate mechanic. It's nice to meet you, and uhh you seem pretty cool."

Mahiru lets out a small scoff under her death, lowly muttering.

"If you guys went through the student handbooks you wouldn't need to be introducing yourselves right now. Then again, what's to be expected by the duo who woke up late. You guys really need to sort out your time management better, for our sake's please. Almost gave our poor hearts a heart attack considering yesterday's announcement."

You suppose her comment makes sense. You nod, before continuing your talk with Kazuichi.

"Thank you. And I'm [Name]. I'm the ultimate dreamer."

It's a weird title to place on yourself, but you suppose you should wear it with pride. He stares at you with a slightly incredulous look on his face, and you swear you can see small smiles forming in his eyes as he responds.

"That's stoked! What does your talent involve?"

Uhm. On the count of three [Name], start waffling!

"It has a bit to do with the meanings of dreams and the symbolism we see in them sometimes! Haha, it's not that great once you really know it, but I really appreciate the enthusiasm."

In truth, it wasn't that great of an explanation, but you can't help the appreciative smile that graces your face as he looks at you with excitement in his eyes. You can't help but wonder just how much of your talent you nailed on the bar, but you suppose this simple explanation will have to last for now. Kazuichi doesn't seem to mind though, seeming content

"If you two are done flirting then we can finally enter the breakfast room. Remember to at least make it seem as though you're apologetic, the both of you please."

And the three of you enter.

Breakfast isn't too bad. Though it does slightly irk you out on just how warm the food is, leaving you wondering how long it's truly has been there, you can't deny that a mysterious comfort meal does sooth you and the situation you're in. You notice Hiyoko turn her nose upwards and eye you as you take a seat near her, and as you give her a small nod she blushes slightly, having been noticed before turning towards her plate in annoyance.

"You're such a weirdo, you know?" You hear her say just as you've begun to eat, and you stare up to meet her eyes. Majority of the other students are talking amongst themselves, but you can't help the odd awereness that Hajime is watching you from the corner of his eye, and that Gundham isn't preaching as loudly about his four devas of destruction.

"What kind of creep shows up late and then has the audacity to be the first to eat? You must really be more pig-faced than Mikan! It's a shame that wasn't really well hidden in the first place." She continues, and you can't help but roll your eyes at her childishness, uncaring enough to know that you shouldn't take her words to heart. You know she means it to be rude, but something about having seen her in game makes her seem less of a threat, something about knowing that she's scared. Scared, just like you.

"Think whatever you'd like Hiyoko. Whatever keeps you asleep at night." You say, making sure to emphasise your movements as you place the food in your mouth, staring dead at her. "And the food's amazing, y'know? If you disagree I see no harm in letting you cook, but of course we'd need everyone here to rate your food."

You notice Akane's head turn towards you as she wipes crumbs from her mouth, offering a smile at the idea and she intervenes.
"More food? I don't care who it's cooked by but the idea has my faith! I don't even mind... num num... being the taste tester! How well do you cook Hiyoko?" 

Hiyoko's face turns a darker shade of red as she stares between you and Akane. Eventually, she lets out a small 'tch' as she crosses her arms, pouting down into her seat. You see Akane give you a sly wink and you give her a grateful and trusting smile. You've found someone who has your back at least.

   
It's not soon after that Byakuya has instructed everyone to head towards Jabberwock island. As everyone sets off, you walk in a brisk and yet steady pace. You don't see the need in wasting your energy so early in the morning, knowing you still have things you need to do. In order to save this island.

It's the footsteps that approach behind you that have you pausing, you heart slowly racing. You can make out a shadow behind you and somehow you already know who it is before you've turned around. Chiaki.

She offers you a nod of her head.

"[Name], right? We haven't really had the chance to catch up. My name's Chiaki."

You smile at her.

"Hello Chiaki. Forgive me if this comes off in the wrong way, but what is there for you and I to discuss? It's best for us to head over to the park now."

She eyes you for a moment, a bland and simple expression laid out on her face. You can't help but admire her doll-like beauty as she responds, tilting her head as her words are muttered out in a neutral tone.

"Let's walk and talk. There's nothing specific I want to discuss anyways. I just wanted to catch up."

"Catch up on what Chiaki? About what I told... Usami right."

She blinks in an owlish manner, nodding her head once again. "Yes, that's right. I wanted to know how you feel on this whole situation, and what you think is going to happen next."

You pause for a moment. What should you tell her? On one hand it'd be a great idea to fess up everything you know, but yet you still find yourself hesitating. Doesn't Chiaki die in the end? What use does she serve towards you? And besides. Is it really smart to reveal the knowledge you have? Wouldn't that make Junko out for you more? You stare at her with slight disinterest.

"What do you want me to say? That hope will win before the killing game can start? I don't believe that Chiaki. Someone's going to die soon."

There's a small silence as you stare at her. She looks as though there can't be a single thought behind her head, though you know better than to think such a thing. Something tells you she isn't personally judging you though.

"What makes you say that?" She askes, and you furrow your eyebrows at her.

"It's inevitable. You know who we're sharing an island with. And you know who turned them into what they are. Personally, a situation like this has only one possible outcome. This is Monokuma's game, and the mastermind behind him has done this before in a society of trained professionals. This can't be saved."

You tell her, and she tilts her head.

"Where's the hope in that mindset?" She ponders, staring away for a moment.

"In the hope that through this despair a greater positivity will arrive. We need to bide our time if we want to stay alive Chiaki, not just me but all of us. I can't promise to stop the killing game Chiaki. But as I promised myself, I'll promise you too.

I will end the killing game Chiaki. That's my purpose and I will die to fulfil it."

-

It's later in your room you're being harassed by Monokuma again and already beginning to regret what you said.

"Die to fulfil it huh? That's a laugh. So if I killed you right now surely you wouldn't mind , right?" He says, as he spreads himself around on your bed, a blissful expression on his face as you glare at him.

"You won't be the one laughing at the end of this. You think you're so strong and smart huh? Too bad there are people smarter than you." You respond, and the bear stills for a moment.

"I'll save you [Name]." Monokuma says suddenlt, and you still, feeling your lips start to dry up at the sudden seriousness of his tone.

"You don't need to be the self appointed hero. Nobody needs, or expects you to be that. After this programme ends, what do you think happens to you? Surely you don't think you'll just go back home, right? You're a part of this system now. If it ends, so do you. You must have known this already, right."

You stare at him. And blinking, you miss the exact moment where Monokuma switches, and you're now faced with Junko Enoshima herself.

"What's so bad about siding with me?" She asks, and you can't help the way you eyes wander, eye contact failing on you at the sight of her true form in the programme. There's a small heat on your face as she gives you her full attention, brushing a blonde strand of hair away from her face as she looks at you with doe eyes.

"I could treat you so well. And instantly make it so that you can't be killed. Don't you want that guaranteed safety that only I can provide?" She asks you, lifting herself from the bed. You take a small step back, but that only makes her take another step, fiddling with the end of a pigtail.

"I don't want to hurt you [Name]. Believe me."

She places a soft hand onto your chest, gripping onto the fabric of your shirt as she softly pulls you away. You try to form together a sentence, but it seems your flustered state is holding too much of an effect on you. She knows this of course, she must. She leans her face towards you, metres away and you can smell the soft scent of honey radiating from her and feel her breath hitting your cheek. And then she pulls herself back, and gives you a smile you can only describe as... soft.

"Think about it [Name]. Imagine all the fun we'd have."

And it's with that she's gone. But you'll be damned if you ever let yourself fall victim to her tricks.

-

Monokuma's called for everyone to meet up in the park, and that's where you all are right now.
You're pretty sure you can remember this point in the game. The arguing's already started, and whilst Mahiru is slightly at fault for provoking Fuyuhiko, somehow you can't help the annoyance coursing through your veins and Fuyuhiko's attitude. You stare at him as he exclaims.

"I'm not your friend, dumbass! When did I ever become friends with you bastards?" With the way he's shouting at Nagito you'd assume he must have killed his mother. Hajime let's out a soft '..eh?' and you can tell he's hesitant to intervene as Fuyuhiko continues on his angered rant.

"Hmph, let me be perfectly clear... 
I can do it, y'know."

And the tension in the air could be cut by a knife. There are a few noises of surprise as everyone stares at him, and you can make out the sight of Hiyoko taking a small step back.

"Y-you... what did you just say...?" Mahiru challenges, and though her voice shakes as she speaks you can't help but admire her courage. It's clear she's scared, and yet she still finds it in herself to speak up. An admirable trait. One that Fuyuhiko doesn't seem to appreciate.

"Oh, you didn't hear me? Then I'll repeat myself just once for you. I said... I can do it."

He continues to argue, even as Hajime tries to speak up against him, even as Peko has tried to calm him down. You feel a small tingling in your arms as he speaks on, and you wonder if it took this long for his agitation to calm down in game.

"Shut the hell up! There's no way I'm dealing with this Kumbaya crap! If any of you guys wanna die, step forward... I'll fuckin' kill you right now.." He says. And for one, you don't appreciate the death threat. Perhaps that's what possesses you to respond.

"Would you actually though?" 

And suddenly are the eyes are on you as he narrows his gaze at you, giving you a condescending stare.

"Hell yeah! Don't fucking try me you bitch, none of you whores could take me on in a fight!" He takes a step forward and you glare at him, picking at your nails in a show of boredom before looking him up and down.

"Cute, Fuyuhiko. You remind me of an angry Chihuahua. Do you know how short and easy to kick out of the way they are? They're so overly loud and annoying. One of the many reasons I don't like you... oh did I say that? I meant the dog."

He's livid now, and you can practically see him shake with anger. Hajime looks at you shaking his head in a small moment of eye contact.

"Hey [Name], there's really no reason to-"

"No. If the bitch has a death wish who am I to say no? I don't have an issue with hitting a girl."

He marches towards you, ignoring Byakuya and his requests to stop. Akane's shouting now, and Nekomaru looks as though he might intervene, but before anyone can do anything, you're stepping forward too. 

You look Fuyuhiko dead in the eyes. He raises his fist at you threateningly, as though to intimidate you but the method doesn't work because in a few seconds the back of your palm is on his face, sending him into a trip as his cheek starts to turn red.
You slapped him.

You lean down as he starts to shout the first insults coming to his head, and you shake your head, speaking.

"You're being selfish, you know? We're all scared here. But isn't there someone on this island you want to protect and take care of? If you kill someone you'll be caught before you can do that. You're placing a target on your back and provoking people. Stop this nonsense will you?"

He's silent, still muttering angrily as he stands up. The glare he gives you is deathly, but he takes a step back.

"You don't know shit about me."

"I don't. But I do know you one hundred percent deserved that knock down."

Byakuya's the next to intervene. 

"That's enough from the both of you.

Fuyuhiko, understand I'm not trying to dismiss your feelings. There was a time I also thought with your mindset. But [Name] is right. Reckless killing can help you accomplish nothing unless you want to die, and run away from this situation. Which is what a child would do." He stares towards you.

"I appreciate your actions, but you're the same as each other when you both act violent. I get the sense that you're more than you show yourself to be. I trust you'll use what I see in you to do something great, and be my aid in ending this game."

It's that night that Byakuya announces himself the saviour of the island. His speech is able to inspire even you, despite knowing it's his down fall in the end. Akane's able to give you a fist bump before Monokuma appears, and that night as you collapse tiredly into bed you're happy to know that the day wasn't a total failure.

Now all you need to do is prevent a murder. Simple enough, right?

Chapter Text

hey! is anyone still here?

if so, this is just me basically saying that this fanfic is officially coming to an end. kind of. let me explain.

so in the time i haven't been updating i've been thinking a lot about this and ways to salvage it without abandoning it, since part of me wants to delete this whereas the other part has seen the support i've been given, kudos comments etc and doesn't want to disregard it as well as the ideas that i've had

so where this fanfic is still going to remain up, i'm officially discarding it under a first draft. i've started another fanfic under the same name and it's going to be similar to this one, only i've planned out the story more and it's less impulsive writing and more organised

i appreciate anyone reading this or who have shown their support for this, you're all the reason i feel confident enough to start taking this fic seriously :') you can find the official fic on my profile, which i'm starting to write up for now !

i hope to see you! :D