Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Makoto just stared at the ocean, panting from his mad dash. Catching his breath, he just felt…angry. Angry that for the past 3 years, Mitsuru had been lying to him! He had been there when S.E.E.S. was just getting started! He was there when Aragaki had left! He was aware of Mitsuru’s secretiveness before, but to keep something like this from him!? Mitsuru knew. She knew how close he was to his parents before the accident. How, even after becoming friends (kinda) with Akihiko and Aragaki, he was still distant for fear of getting hurt like that again. She had known this. And she never said anything.
“Hey.”
Takeba. The girl who had just joined a few months ago.The girl who had managed to get them past the first floor of Tartarus. She had saved him so many times. A debt he knew he could never repay. He sighed, “Hey.”
“Do you…wanna talk about it?”
He wanted to say no. He didn’t want to let anyone else in. To experience that betrayal again. But…there was something about Takeba. Something that made him feel…able to open up. It took a moment, but eventually he began speaking, “You remember back in the hospital? When I told you about my parents?”
“Yeah…”
“After losing them, I was placed in the same orphanage as Akihiko. In fact, he was the only one who really approached me. Everyone else was too scared of the boy whose mother blew up a school. I knew the rumors were bullshit, but hearing them then…it pissed me off,” Makoto then turned to face Takeba, her soft, brown eyes meeting his, a look of genuine concern. After a brief pause, he continued, “When Mitsuru first approached us, I had no intention of associating with her at first. But then I figured if I could get close to her, I’d be able to find out what really happened that night. And tonight, I did… Only to find that for all this time, I’ve been fighting for nothing. I hate her…” Makoto balled his fist as he broke eye contact, “I hate how she gets at least one parent still around while I have nothing! Her family is the reason that I’ve felt so alone all my life, dammit! She should be the one suffering right now, not me!” Turning back, he saw Takeba’s expression had fallen, a hint of sadness now tugging at his heart strings, “I…I’m sorry. That’s not right of me to say.”
“You’re hurting. I understand what that’s like.”
“Will you stop that!?” Makoto snapped, walking up to her and gripping her shoulders “What is it with you, huh? Are you expecting to save me or something!? I told you before, that ship sailed long ago! I’m beyond anything anyone could do for me!” Makoto’s vision began to blur as the teardrops descended, “Please, for your sake and for mine…stop. Stop trying to look for whatever it is you think you see. It’s not there…”
Takeba stood there, staring back. He half-expected to have been able to chase her off with his outburst. Or at the very least, she’d slap him. What he hadn’t expected, however, was for her to hug him.
“The hell’re you-?”
“It’s okay to feel hurt and lost. I’ve felt that way for so long too.”
“What changed?”
“I met you. And the others.”
Makoto snickered, “You’re really something else, aren’t you? Lemmie guess, Mitsuru put you up to this?”
“I came of my own accord.”
“Doubt that… But…thanks.” Makoto then returned the gesture, holding Takeba there for what felt like an eternity. He closed his eyes, taking it all in. The scent of the ocean. Takeba’s embrace. For the first time in a long time, he was content. Happy, even! And just as he was about to speak again, “Yo, Yuka-tan, Makodude! You guys still out here?” Makoto quickly pushed Yukari off as she understood, turning to see Junpei, “What’s takin’ you guys so long, huh? It’s almost midnight and the Dark Hour’s gonna start!”
“Oh, right,” Makoto dryly responded, “We should get going then, Yukari.”
“Right.”
As Makoto went on ahead, Junpei stood there for a solid few seconds before speaking again, “Did-Did he just call you by your first name?”
“I think he did.”
“Did I miss something?”
“Not really,” Yukari said as she began walking back.
“Bullshit! I’ve known him for two years and he still calls me Iori! H-Hey, Yuka-tan, wait! At least give me a hint!”

Chapter Text

Yukari slammed her alarm clock, frustrated at it interrupting her slumber. She was content with just laying there in her bed and sleep forever, but unfortunately, she had plans. Cram school started today and she didn’t want to be late. After stretching, she changed into her uniform and opened the door. As she walked down, she stopped for a moment on the second floor. The boys hall. Why was she stopping here? To wait for Makoto? She sighed, knowing it was a losing battle. He wouldn’t come. He couldn’t. He was gone. He would never come back. Yukari continued moving down the stairs, she heard the chattering of the others (minus Aigis). They hadn’t noticed her come down. Seeing them all sharing breakfast and acting like nothing had happened made her skin crawl. How could they all just move on so quickly? It had only been a week! Yukari felt the burning rage welling up inside her, but instead of releasing it, she just kept walking.
“Yukari-chan?”
Yukari stopped hearing Fuuka call out to her, “Yeah?”
“It’s good to see you out of your room. Wanna have breakfast together?”
“Sorry, I have cram school. Maybe another time.”
“Oh, ok. Well, maybe when you get back, you could join us for movie night?”
“We’ll see.”

Walking into Gekkoukan had never felt so empty before. She stared blankly over to the other side of the shoe cubby. She remembered how Makoto would give her a soft smile every day for the last month. Did he know? Was he aware that he was going to die? If so, why wouldn’t he tell her!? “Liar…” Yukari said to herself, deciding to just get to class. Why was everything in her life now so complicated? Was it too much to ask for a simple life? A simple life… That was something the both of them had spent late nights discussing. What would life have been like without their powers? Without the Dark Hour? Would they have ever gotten together in the first place? She’d like to think so, but a lot of their relationship had been forged thanks to the Dark Hour’s existence. But even so, she still thought there was a chance. Albeit as slim as it truly was. Maybe then he wouldn’t have left her. All alone.

“You hear about how that new kid died last week?”
“Oh yeah, the one who everyone thought was dating Takeba? What was his name again?”
“Yuki, I think.”
“Poor guy, any idea what happened to him?”
“Not a clue. Rumor has it he had some sort of terminal illness or something.”
"That sucks... Hey, think this means I've got a shot with Takeba now?"
"Hell no, dumbass! She's shot down pretty much every guy in the school by now! What makes you think you of all people even has a chance with her?"
Yukari couldn’t stand the needless chatter of the two students behind her. She didn't want to hear how people could not give even an ounce of respect for him! She just wanted to focus on studying. To focus on something. Anything! Anything to keep herself from thinking about him. But alas, this had failed as she noticed she had made a small doodle of Makoto in her notebook. He was smiling. That stupid, soft, inviting smile! She tore the page out of her notebook and crumpled it into a ball, stuffing it into her pocket as she intended to throw it away at the break. I hate them... I hate them all! Why can't they just shut up!? Why can they all move on so quickly from you!?

The seconds turned into minutes, and the minutes into hours. But eventually, classes ended as Yukari found herself in a quickened pace. She decided to take the long way back to the dorms. Towards the Moonlight Bridge. A place that harbored memories for both herself and him. As was halfway across the bridge, she tucked her hands into her pockets. She stopped when she felt that crumpled page in her hand. Yukari began to hyperventilate as she held it in her hand, as she then snapped, “What the hell is wrong with you!? Why are you still fucking with me, huh!?”
She received no answer.
“I…I don’t understand. I don’t understand! Why did you have to leave!? You said we’d be together forever, dammit! Was that a lie!? Do you… Do you really hate me that much for forgetting…?”
Silence once more. A silence that boiled Yukari's blood.
“Fine…I don’t need you anyway!” Yukari readied herself to toss the paper ball off the bridge. But as she tried to, she found that…she couldn’t. As much as she tried to force herself to follow through, to rid herself of the pain! But instead she fell to her knees and just sobbed. She uncrumpled the paper as she stared at the drawing through tear-filled eyes, “I’m sorry. I’m so, so sorry, Makoto.” She continued like this until the sun had disappeared from the horizon. She then stood up, and dried her tears as she looked down the edge. It was quite a fair distance to the bottom. She could just climb over the edge and just fall. Like a brick. It wasn't like she wasn't already drowning. No one would even know what would’ve happened to her. She’d be gone. She’d be with Makoto again. Everything would be right in her world. But at the same time…could she abandon her friends now? No. That’d be selfish of her. To needlessly hurt them more after just a week of his passing. She sighed as she made her way back to the dorms. Back to the lingering emptiness that awaited her. A world without the one who had helped her to become whole.

Chapter Text

To say not much ever phased Makoto Yuki would be quite the understatement. A city full of coffins, a tower full of monsters, runaway trains, cultist assassins, the end of the world, almost dying to save the world. You name it, and he’s probably faced it with the blankest look on his face. The only things that seemed to get to him was if whatever he was facing put the lives of those he cared about at stake. But now, he had discovered something that phased him that didn’t fall under that category.

“Thanks for coming on such short notice, I just…didn’t know who else to turn to.”
“Hey, no prob, Makodude,” Junpei replied, sitting on Makoto’s bed, “Although it’s kinda weird you brought me in here though. Need I remind you we’re both married?”
Makoto sighed, “Junpei, this is serious!”
“Ok, ok, sorry. Well, what’s up? You two got into another fight or something?”
“No, it’s not that serious. It’s just…I feel really stupid about it and normally, I’d talk about this sort of thing with Yukari. But I don’t wanna cause her any more stress than she’s already under, you know?”
“I hear ya,” Junpei nodded, “The life of an actress sounds exhausting from what Yuka-tan tells me. Especially if you’re pregnant, which congrats by the way. So, what’s so important you need to tell ya old pal, Junpei?”
Makoto cringed, “I’m…nervous. About becoming a father…”
“O-Oh. Shit.” Junpei stared for a second as Makoto briefly looked away for a second, “Wait, you have a problem like that and you came to me of all people?”
“Name one other person in our immediate friend group who’d have some form of understanding of the situation I’m in.”
Junpei thought about it for a moment, scratching his chin, “You know what? That’s fair…”
“What do I even do in this situation? Should I even say anything? Do I risk burdening Yukari like that!?”
“Honestly, yeah.”
“But what if-”
“Makodude, Yuka-tan’s a lot tougher than you give her credit for. Besides, it might be for the best to tell her how you feel now before you, ya know, explode. You’re supposed to be partners in life. Ya know, in sickness and in health.”
Makoto stared at Junpei for a minute, “Ya know, I think that was probably the smartest thing I’ve ever heard come from your mouth.”
“Well, I have my moments.” Just as their conversation had ended, they heard the sound of the door opening, “Sounds like she’s back. Well, what’re ya waitin’ for?”
Makoto nodded, taking a deep breath.

Makoto stepped into the living room, seeing Mitsuru, Fuuka, and Aigis accompanying Yukari, helping her carry some bags. “Thanks again, for coming with me guys. I swear the paparazzi are absolutely infuriating.”
“Were it up to me, I’d have them all executed for you,” Mitsuru said, placing the bags down on the sofa.
“If it would please you, I could ‘swiss cheese’ them, as Junpei says,” Aigis said, her hand beginning to whir.
“Yeah, maybe…don’t do that,” Yukari said, chuckling nervously.
Fuuka giggled, “At any rate, that outing was pretty fun, we’ve gotta do something like this again sometime.”
“If my schedule allows it. With the discovery of Shadows existing outside the Dark Hour, I’ve been busy working on more research to try and find a way to keep them from hurting more people.”
“Ah, greetings Makoto-san. We just got back from a ‘shopping spree’, as they say.”
Yukari then looked up to see her loving husband standing in the middle of the doorway to the bedrooms with the stiffness of a mannequin. She then nodded as she then grabbed one of the bags and walked towards him, “Uh… hey, can-can we talk? In private?”
Makoto felt a million things racing through his mind. Had something happened? She never mentioned anything about shopping before heading out for today! He thought she was just going out with the other girls. Had he done something wrong? Had she figured out how nervous he really was!? “Uh… Okay.”
Yukari sighed with relief, “Thanks.” With her free arm, she grabbed Makoto’s arm and dragged him off.

The nursery was quite discomforting to be in for Makoto, all things considered. Why Yukari dragged him in here, he had no clue. But he was glad she didn’t drag him to their bedroom. Junpei hadn’t left yet and he didn’t want her to be shocked by their unexpected visitor. After letting go of him, Yukari sat with her back to the crib, patting the ground for Makoto to do the same. He obliged as this awkward air seemed to breed between them. Yukari then finally broke the silence, as she opened the bag she had brought with her, “I need to be honest with you. I lied about why I was going out. We all went shopping for some new baby clothes, some diapers, and baby powder. I know it’s still a little early to be doing this, but time really does fly. And in a few months, we’ll be welcoming little Tsukime-chan here into the world. And also…I…I bought this.”
She handed Makoto a book, the title reading ‘The Do’s and Don’ts of Parenting.’ He frowned for a moment, not understanding at first. And then he realized the implication, “Yukari, are you…nervous?”
Yukari nodded, sighing, “Extremely! I don’t exactly have a great model for being a mother, you know! I mean, sure we’ve reconnected and all, but there are still some things I just…can’t move past! And I don’t want to put our child through that! Plus it doesn’t help that you seem so…calm about it! I just… I really wanna be a good mom for Tsukime-chan, that's all. I-I don’t want her to suffer like I did…”
Makoto felt a slight chuckle building up. He tried to suppress it as best he could, but Yukari had already picked up on it.
“H-Hey, are you laughing? I’m spilling my guts here, Makoto Yuki!”
“Sorry, it’s not like that, it's just… I feel really stupid now, is all.”
“Huh? How come?”
“Because… I’m nervous, too.”
Yukari stared at him dumbfounded, “You, nervous?”
“Hard to believe, I know, “ Makoto said, smirking, “But it’s the truth. I’m…not sure I’d make a good dad. I mean, I didn’t even think I was capable of love before our first trip to Yakushima.”
“I mean, what about that little girl you’d hang out with after school just so she wouldn’t be lonely? What was her name again? Maiko-chan?”
“Maiko was more like a little sister to me than my own child.”
“I mean, it still counts. She looked up to you, didn’t she? And she also made you a bead ring for crying out loud!”
“I suppose you’re right about that. And you shouldn’t sell yourself short, either. You helped to give my life meaning again, after all.”
Yukari smiled, “And now I feel stupid. We really gotta stop hiding our feelings from each other.”
“And that’s something we’ll work on. Together.”
“I’d like that,” Yukari said as she rested her head on his shoulder. Makoto then wrapped his arm around her back as the two sat there for a while. Makoto then kissed Yukari on the cheek, “I don’t ever think I say this enough, but I love you so much, Yukari.”
Yukari smiled, “I love you too, you big dork.”

Chapter Text

Yukari stared at her phone, looking at her messages with Makoto throughout the past year. She smiled remembering all the good times they had this year. Despite the many, many painful times they had gone through. She genuinely enjoyed every little moment they had together as she reminisced about everything that occurred since they were now officially dating for about two months now. She finally scrolled down to the most recent one:

You: Hey, guess what today is? 

It’s Christmas Eve, right? :Mako♥️

You: Yeah, hehe.

You: Listen, I don’t usually say things like this, but since today is a pretty special day, I was wondering if, after classes, you’d wanna…spend it together? Like how normal people do.🎁

You: If you’re not up for it, I’d understand, of course. A lot’s happened in the past month, after all…

It’s fine, I’d love to. I just need to finish up something for student council first. It’ll be quick, I promise. :Mako♥️

You: Alright! I’ll see you then!

👍:Mako♥️

Yukari smiled at their exchange. It was a far cry from when they had first met. At first, she saw him as cold and uncaring. But that was merely a shield to protect how truly vulnerable and lonely he was. In a way, they were similar in that regard. Maybe that’s why their hearts entwined themselves together. The door to the classroom then slid open as Makoto stepped in and walked to her desk, “Hey, sorry about that. Odagiri needed me to fill something in for next year.”
“No problem, I think I kept myself busy enough while waiting.”
“You ready?” He asked as he reached for her hand.
Yukari nodded, taking it as the two then left together.

Normally, Yukari would’ve been opposed to such an outing. She didn’t want anyone from school to find out that she and Makoto were dating. Not because she was embarrassed by him, far from it! She just didn’t want any more rumors about her to spread. But right now, she didn’t care. She only cared about spending time with the person she loved. And she loved him so, so much. They attempted to find a restaurant to hang out at, but everything was either packed or closed. Makoto sighed, “Sorry about not being able to find a spot. Maybe I should’ve gotten a reservation or something.”
“It’s fine,” Yukari reassured him, “I’m still having a good time. I enjoy spending time with you.”
“Well that’s good. I was starting to think I was boring you.”
“Never! You’re probably the most interesting person I’ve ever met!” Yukari felt her face going red after admitting that aloud, but it didn’t totally fluster her. Finally, she could compliment him without short-circuiting herself!
Makoto snickered, “I doubt that, but thanks. Oh, how about we go to Paulownia Mall? Maybe we’ll find something there.”
“Good idea! I hear they’ve even got a bunch of lights up! Even if everything there’s not open there, we could still at least walk around!”

Yukari was amazed by the whole display. There were silver and gold ornaments hanging from the ceiling as well as projected snowflakes moving slowly across it. The fountain even had ‘Christmas’ in big, lit up letters, “Wow! It’s so pretty!”
“Yeah,” Makoto agreed, “I never would’ve guessed they’d go all out like this.”
“I mean, they brought in a famous designer for this. Well, where should we go first?”
“Chagall doesn’t look too crowded, wanna try there?”
Yukari nodded, “I could go for something warm right about now.”

This whole day was magical! Makoto was even smiling and laughing throughout their coffee date. Once the two had finished, they decided to walk around the mall to see what else was open. The arcade was! Great! Yukari had been wanting to do the photo booth with Makoto for quite some time. As they were leaving, Yukari saw the claw machine, “You know, I’ve never been able to win something from that thing.”
Makoto nodded, “You want me to try?”
“I mean, you don’t have to.”
Makoto then walked over and deposited three 100 yen coins and proceeded to win a Jack Frost doll on the first try! After retrieving it, he gave it to her, a smile on his face.
“Thanks!”
Makoto nodded, “I only wish I could’ve gotten you something better.”
“I’d accept any gift from you.”
“In that case, how about a Ouija Board?”
Yukari then playfully punched his shoulder, “Don’t push it!” The two then proceeded to laugh about it as they kept on walking.

After a while, the two then decided to sit down at a bench, hands entwined as they looked onward. “You know, this whole thing feels kinda surreal to me. I mean, if you told me six months ago I’d be spending Christmas with you, I would think you were crazy.”
Makoto nodded, “I get that. We were both used to being alone, after all.”
“Oh, I almost forgot!” Yukari then handed Makoto a small piece of tupperware containing a small chocolate cake and a plastic fork, “Here. I hope it tastes alright.”
Makoto then opened it, took out the fork, and proceeded to eat a small piece, “This is great, thank you! I only wish I could’ve gotten you something better than that doll.”
Yukari smiled, “Hey, there’s always next year, right?” At that moment, she realized what she had said as she turned to see Makoto cringe, “O-Oh, I’m so sorry, Makoto! I totally forgot-”
“No, it’s fine,” he reassured her, “I mean, I forgot about that, too. Hard to believe that I only have a week to make a decision.”

Yukari nodded, as she solemnly looked at him, “Have you…made a decision yet?”
“In all honesty, I’m…still unsure. I have an idea but… I don’t wanna say yet.”
“Just take your time. No matter what your decision is, I’ll stand by it. Even if it’s against the others.”
“Thanks,” Makoto said, smiling as he met Yukari’s gaze, “You know, I’m glad that I met you. I mean, this whole year has been the happiest I’ve felt in a long time.”
“Yeah, I uh…I feel the same,” Yukari felt her face flush again as Makoto seemed to be drawing himself closer to her. At first, she thought it was her imagination, but when she looked down at his body, it was in fact, coming closer, “Um, Makoto what…um…what’re you doing?”
“Solidifying my decision.” Makoto then closed his eyes, inching ever closer to her. Yukari put her arms around him as she began pulling him in. And then… their lips met. Yukari then closed her eyes as she held Makoto there as his arms then wrapped around her back. The action had only lasted around 10, maybe 15 seconds. But to Yukari, it felt like an eternity. When Makoto withdrew and she opened her eyes, he just…smiled. That stupid smile. Yukari then buried her face in his chest, “Hey, that-that’s not…not fair, Mako! You-! You can’t just… Ugh… God, I-I love you so much.”
Makoto then hugged her, and began stroking her hair, “I love you too, Yukari.”
Yukari then pulled away as she remembered something, pulling out her phone, “Crap! We’re past our curfew!”
“I’m sure Mitsuru will understand,” Makoto assured her, “Besides, we can’t be the only couple out late on Christmas Eve.”
“I guess that’s true. Man, I wish we could stay out just a bit longer…”
“I mean, we could go to my room.”
Yukari then immediately stood up, “M-Makoto!”
“What? No one would bother us. I can put on some YouTube videos we could watch.”
Yukari sighed, “Nevermind… I keep forgetting… Nothing, let’s go…” As Makoto stood up and started walking out, she stopped, “Um… Could I… hold your arm? I-It’s a bit chilly and… Well uh…”
Makoto just smiled as he offered it to her, “Of course.”

Chapter Text

Yukari awoke to the sound of roaring waves. Where was she? This wasn’t the Abyss of Time… They had just defeated that…thing. Were they finally free? As she stood up, she looked around. She could tell this wasn’t the dorm. But where was she? Where were the others!? “Mitsuru? Fuuka?”
Nothing.
“Koro-chan? Ken-kun? Aigis!?”
Again, nothing.
“Anyone…?” Yukari began walking towards the sounds of the ocean, hoping at least someone was there. Heck, she’d even take Junpei! As Yukari kept walking, she found herself slowing. Something about this path…it felt familiar…but why? As she continued, she found her answer. Yakushima! Somehow, she had been whisked away to Yakushima! But the others…where were they? As she looked, she saw someone standing in the water. A boy with white hair, shirt, yellow scarf, black slacks and shoes. Not exactly appropriate beach attire, much less for standing in the water. 

As she approached, she felt a wave of nostalgia hit her like a bus. This was where she truly fell for him. Was this how he felt approaching her that day? Anxious and unsure? As she got closer, she stopped when the boy spoke, “I hadn’t expected it to work. But I’m glad.”
Yukari’s eyes widened. That voice… She recognized it immediately, “M-Makoto?”
The boy turned to face her, confirming her suspicions. His soft, blue eyes seemed to be a brighter color now, but his smile was still the very same, “Hey. It’s been a while.”
Yukari felt her legs growing heavy as the tears began to well up. When she regained the use of her legs, she ran right into Makoto, hugging him tightly as she began sobbing.
“Hey. It’s okay. I’m-”
“You asshole!” Makoto seemed caught off-guard by her sudden outburst, “How could you just…do that, huh!? Leaving me all alone like that! Why didn’t you say anything!? Did you want me to find out what happened to you like that!?”
“Yukari. I…” Makoto frowned, “I’m sorry. I wanted  to tell you what was going on so much but I… I was a coward. I was scared that by telling you, I would just leave you with only painful memories. I never wanted to hurt you.”

As Yukari’s sobs began dying down, she found herself slipping to her knees, Makoto following her movements, “How… How is this possible… Are you…alive now?”
Makoto shook his head, “I’m sorry, but… No. I’m not sure how else to describe it, but… Think of this like a dream.”
“One I’ll have to wake up from, right? How long…can you stay?”
Makoto nodded, “5 minutes, give or take. Though technically, time in the waking world -- your waking world, I’m aware of your current situation -- has stopped, so this is all happening in the span of a second.”
“I understand…” Yukari said, nodding, “Just enough time to say goodbye, right?”
“And answer a few questions, if you have any.”
Yukari sighed, “Why did you give your powers to Aigis and not me?”
“I thought about giving them to you at first, but in the end, I gave them to Aigis for two reasons. The first one being is I didn’t want to burden you further. The power of the Wild Card comes with a lot to bear.”
“And the second?”
“Aigis, biologically speaking, isn’t alive. I was scared I’d seal your fate as well, so by using this loophole, I could ensure you all would live.”
Yukari frowned, understanding his logic. She still didn’t like it, but she understood, “Then, what about that…thing we beat? What was that?”
“Erebus. A being born from the negativity within the hearts of everyone. As you saw, it was the reason for causing The Fall. The seal I created prevents it from reaching out to Nyx. Erebus was pretty pissed that I did that and so decided to try and find something to break the seal. Hence why you were all trapped in the Abyss in Time. It wanted to use your grief in order to get you to break the seal. Sorry about that…”
“No, it’s not your fault,” Yukari said, smiling now, “If anything, the blame lies with me for not being able to let go.”
“And that isn’t your fault, either.”
“One last question though. You said earlier that you could see and hear us earlier…what is it like being the seal?”
Makoto was quiet for a minute before answering again, “I won’t lie to you. I hate it. I hate being imprisoned here. I hate that I can see and hear everything that happens in the world… Including seeing and hearing you suffering for actions that were not your own.” Tears began flowing from his eyes now, “I’m sorry… I’m so, so sorry I left you without saying anything! I hurt you in ways I could never forgive myself for.”
Yukari then hugged Makoto, “I never blamed you. Not even once.”
“Yukari, I-”
“It’s okay. You were just being the selfless man I fell for.”

The two spent the next few moments in silence as they lay in the sand, observing the stars. Talking about nothing in particular. It's nice to be able to do this, Yukari thought, Just us. Under the stars. Something she wanted to last forever, but alas, Makoto then sat up, “It’s almost time.”
Yukari sat up too, saddened, “Back to work, then?”
“It’s not so bad,” Makoto said, “Knowing you’re still alive. Knowing you’ll be happy with whatever it is you wish to do. It makes it all worth it.”
Yukari giggled, “Oh, stop it, you!”
“I’m serious.”
“Will I…be able to see you again?”
“Not for a while. In fact, the only reason I was able to contact you now is because you guys managed to weaken Erebus. Even if only slightly.”
“Oh,” Yukari looked down.
“Do you…remember what you told me after you called your mother and made up with her? How to love someone is to give a part of you away?”
“Yeah.”
“Then that means you carry a part of me within yourself…”
“I…never thought about it that way.”
“Before I go, I want you to promise me something. Promise me that no matter what, you’ll live your life to the fullest. Laughing with the good times. Crying at the bad. But no matter what, never give up. As long as you do that, then no matter what, I promise that I will never leave your side.”
Yukari nodded, “I… I promise, Makoto. No matter what!”
“Good,” Makoto smiled, standing up, “And with that…our time is up.” Makoto then started walking to the ocean, “I’ll see you later…”
“Yeah…” Yukari said, “See you later.” Makoto then walked into the ocean, disappearing beneath the waves, the moon then shone with a bright light, enveloping the entirety of the world as Yukari averted her eyes.

Chapter Text

“I hardly expected you of all people would come to me like this,” Ikutsuki said as Makoto sat at a chair, facing his desk.
Makoto said nothing, but just glared at him. The man who had taken over the Kirijo Group and banished Mitsuru after her father had disappeared. The one responsible for sending Strega after him and his friends, “I wouldn’t be here if there was any other option.”
“I suggest you watch your tone, Yuki-kun. After all, I am the one who’s holding all the cards now.”
Makoto huffed, averting his gaze.
Ikutsuki smiled, “Like a dog who knows they’ve stepped out of line. How pathetic. Tell you what: Since you have my pity, I’ll fulfill whatever your request is…within reason of course…”

Keisuke Hiraga. Former student of Gekkoukan School Project. He was a quiet, softspoken, yet kind boy many of his fellow classmates had looked up to. Until he revealed his nature as an Orphenoch by killing Chihiro Fushimi, causing the Delta Gear to fall into the hands of Strega’s second-in-command, Jin for a time. Despite showing where his allegiances lie now, Yukari was the only one who believed there was a fraction of good left within him. Especially so after she received a message from him asking for her help to leave Strega. Makoto, not wanting Yukari to go alone, went with her. Unfortunately, they were attacked by Chidori, another member of Strega. Makoto managed to hold her off for a time while Yukari and Hiraga escaped. But in reality, it was all a trap. Hiraga had lured Yukari to him in order to “finally rid himself of his humanity.” Makoto had realized this too late, as he saw Hiraga, in Orphenoch form, deliver a devastating blow to the poor girl. Makoto rushed her to the hospital soon afterwards, contacting Junpei and Aragaki.

Unfortunately, there was little the doctors could do for Yukari as she lay in a wakeless slumber, and eventually, she succumbed to her injuries. Junpei was distraught at her passing, but Makoto? He could barely keep it together. He blamed himself. Had he stopped her from going, perhaps she would still be alive! Because of this, he surrendered the Faiz Gear to Aragaki’s care. After Yukari’s body was moved to the morgue as the rest of the remaining students of Gekkoukan  went to say their goodbyes, Aragaki took Makoto aside, wanting to speak with him about matters.

“Yuki, this… It’s not your fault. I’ve known Yukari for quite some time. She was bound to get into some kinda trouble like this one day.”
Makoto balled his fist, “How dare you…”
“Hm?”
Makoto, with all the force he could generate, punched Aragaki in the nose, “How can you say that about someone you knew like that!?”
Aragaki tsked, staggering back as he whipped the blood from his nose. He then proceeded to knee Makoto in the stomach, knocking him to the floor, “Get a damn grip, Yuki! Besides, it’s not like it’s the first time.”
“First…time…?”
“Right, sometimes I forget you weren’t part of Gekkoukhan,” Aragaki sighed, “It was a slaughter. None of us survived. The only reason we’re even 'alive' now is because of what the Kirijo Group did with our corpses.”
Makoto looked up as Aragaki looked away.
“They injected Orphenoch cells into us, hoping to make more of ‘em. Of the 40 of us, only 2 were ever fully awakened to the Orphenoch cells. Hiraga was one of ‘em, obviously.”
“And the other?”
Aragaki lowered his head, “Not a damn clue. But as for the rest, they had our memories wiped of that night. Only reason I know this is cuz I managed to escape before they could wipe me. Once we take down both Strega and Ikutsuki, then we can save Yukari.”
Save Yukari. Makoto nodded as he slowly got up, now deadset on a new mission. Save Yukari. I have to save her. By any means necessary.

“So, is it possible?”
Ikutsuki interlaced his fingers as he smirked at Makoto’s desperation, “Maybe, Maybe not.”
Makoto pounded his fist on the desk, “Don’t give me that shit, dammit! Please! If you won’t do it for me, do it for Kirijo-san! He loved all of the kids in his care! Surely you could do that much!”
Ikutsuki just kept smirking, “I’m sorry, Makoto-kun, but I cannot. Simply because I would be going against the interests of the company.”
Makoto then sunk back into his chair, defeated. He had failed her…
“Although, there is a way I can grant your request, but as it stands, both methods are outside what you have access to.”
“Name them!”
“Easy there, fido,” Ikutsuki said mockingly, “I just said that they’d be impossible for you. Although, I see no harm in telling you what those two conditions are.”
Makoto nodded.
“The first is you return the Faiz, Kaixa and Delta gears to their rightful owners. They are stolen property, after all.”
“And the second?”
“For you to join Strega. Of course, that’d mean you’d need to be an Orphenoch yourself. Oh, and kill Hiraga-kun as well. We have a zero tolerance policy when it comes to traitors, after all.”
Makoto nodded as he got up and proceeded to leave. He paused for a second, hoping to hear Ikutsuki change his mind, but alas he was granted no such luck as he finally left for good.

Makoto opened the door to Iori Cleaners, stepping inside to see Junpei, Akihiko and Koromaru were waiting for him, “Makodude, hey.”
Makoto looked up at Junpei with a weary look, before looking down again.
“How…are you feeling, man?”
“I don’t know…”
“I know what you’re going through,” Akihiko said, approaching Makoto and placing a hand on his shoulder, “When I lost Miki, I was distraught. I couldn’t focus on anything other than getting stronger so no one else would have to suffer like that ever again. But, you did what you could for her. All you can realistically do from here is to keep moving forward. Live for them in your memories.”
“What good are memories when the person you lost was the reason you could keep going?” Makoto asked solemnly, “‘All I could do for her’ wasn’t enough. She paid for my negligence. Not that it matters in the end…” Koromaru whimpered, attempting to brush up against Makoto to make him feel better, but he barely registered it. He just stared at the empty cleaning station as he began reminiscing about the times he spent with Yukari. When she would yell at him for acting cold, or when she would make fun of the fact he was a nekojita. When they had their first heart-to-heart. Every moment he had spent with her made him feel more alive than he had felt for the last twelve years of his life. And now, she is gone. He’d never see her smile after doing great after acting lessons or explore different kinds of music with her, or taste her cooking… God, her cooking. It was the only thing he could eat hot… As he was staring into empty space, Akihiko’s phone began to ring. He then immediately picked up as he recognized the number, “Yo Shinji, what’s up? What, where!? Gotcha, we’ll be right over!” He then hung up and turned to Junpei, “Shinji and Yamagishi are engaging both Hiraga and a member of Strega, they need backup, now!”
Junpei nodded, running to grab the keys to his van.
“Wait.” Junpei and Akihiko turned to see Makoto now facing them, determination burning like a fire in his eyes, “I’m coming too.”

The blue van pulled up behind the Side Basshar as the three looked out to see both Aragaki and Fuuka fighting Hiraga and Chidori. Any strike Aragaki attempted against his foe was simply parried and followed up with another jab. Fuuka wasn’t fairing well either, as Hiraga’s massive chakram kept her from even being able to get a hit in. Junpei, after parking, immediately ran to the Side Basshar, grabbed the case holding the Faiz Gear, opened it up and tossed the contents to Makoto, who grabbed it out of instinct. “Go on Makodude, henshin! Get in there!”
Makoto stared at the gear with contempt. Yukari had lost her life for some so trivial as a damn belt? The thought in itself was laughable. He then dropped it to the ground as Akihiko and Junpei looked up at him with confusion.
“Uhh, Makodude…? What’re you-?”
Makoto then stepped forward as he stared at Hiraga with hatred and malice. After getting to a fair distance, he then shouted out, “Hiraga!”
The whole fight ceased at the shout as they turned to face Makoto.
“You sought to end your humanity. Congratulations. You’ve done it,” as he said this, Makoto’s body then began to glow a bright white, “It was Yukari who put her trust in you. And you took her life. Now…it’s my turn!” As he finished his sentence, Makoto then began to yell, his body tensing up from him tapping into a power he had kept hidden for so long. Then he was enveloped in a blinding light as his body shifted from human into something more monstrous, almost resembling a werewolf. Everyone just stared in disbelief at the revelation. Makoto then charged into the fray, landing a gut punch on Hiraga. He doubled over as Makoto then kicked him in the head, knocking him to the ground, rolling over. Makoto then leapt into the air and landed on his stomach as he began attempting to punch and scratch and even bite at Hiraga’s face. Hiraga kept his arms up, blocking the attacks, but every hit Makoto got in seemed to hurt more than the last. He looked over to Chidori, who simply used this moment to make a tactical retreat. Realizing there was no one to help him, he managed to roll over, getting Makoto off him as he stared daggers into Hiraga’s eyes, “I’ll kill you… I’ll kill you… I’ll kill you! You’ll die so Yukari can live!”
For the first time since he became in Orphenoch, Hiraga had felt genuine fear. Fear of this…beast hellbent on tearing him apart! And so, he did the only thing he could do at that moment, and ran.

Hiraga ran for quite some time. How…How could anyone be as savage as that? As he looked back, he couldn’t see Makoto. Where did he go? He knew he wouldn’t give up with acts of savagery like that! Where was he!? He kept scanning the trees, hoping to discover where he was hiding. And just as the panic had just set in…Makoto jumped out from some unknown hiding place and delivered a powerful scratch across his chest, sending him flying into a tree! “No more running…  No more games! I will end you now!”
Hiraga drew his chakram and charged at Makoto, only for him to jump back, then propel himself forward after kicking off a tree, punching Hiraga in the face and disarming him. He then unleashed a flurry of blows, pushing him back with each strike and eventually backing him to the back of a cliff. He looked back at the edge, seeing nothing but a large lake at the bottom and as he looked back, Makoto delivered a powerful kick to his chest, knocking him off and sending him plunging to the depths below. Makoto then reverted to his human form as he looked over the edge for any hint Hiraga had survived. Nothing. Not even a hint of activity from below. Exhausted, he looked back at the crowd of friends he had caused as they stared at him with a mix of shock, fear and in Akihiko’s case, anger. He said nothing as he walked over to where Hiraga’s weapon had landed. He picked it up as he began walking off as if he were in a trance, reverting back into his human form. Yukari. You will be okay now. Please…wait just a little bit longer…

“Wh-What the hell was that!?” Junpei asked.
“I had my suspicions, but for them to be confirmed…” Aragaki shook his head.
Fuuka shook her head, “W-Was that even…real?”
“This can't be right!” Junpei shouted, panicked, “There’s no way… There has to be something wrong! He can’t be… Makodude...Makodude's an Orphenoch!?”

Chapter Text

“Alright, this next one for sure!” Yukari said, clicking the next video of another funny home video. Yukari laughed hysterically at the video, but when she turned to see Makoto’s ever blank expression, she sighed, “ya know, it wouldn’t kill you to laugh, Makoto!”
“Hm?” Makoto looked at her, “Oh, sorry, it’s not that. It just wasn’t that funny to me, that’s all.”
“Seriously!?” Yukari stared at him dumbfounded, “We’ve watched like 20 of these and not once did you think any were funny!?”
“Not really. I mean, I don't think I remember a single time I have ever laughed.”
Yukari shook her head, how was that even possible? Surely, he has to have laughed at least once in his life, surely! “Fine then, I bet 3000 yen I can make you laugh by the end of the week!”
Makoto raised an eyebrow at this, “A-Are you sure?”
“Positive! I’ll make you laugh if it’s the last thing I do!”
Makoto then checked his phone, seeing that today was a Sunday. This would give Yukari six whole days to try and make him laugh. He nodded, “Very well, I accept your challenge,” he then outstretched his hand for Yukari to shake.
“You are so gonna lose, Makoto!” Yukari grinned, shaking it.

MONDAY

As Makoto was about to head upstairs to his room, Yukari stopped him, “This comedy special never fails to make anyone laugh! So, let’s watch it now, shall we?”
Makoto shrugged, “Ok.”
As Yukari popped the disc into the DVD player and pressed play, she smirked at her master plan. She spent the entire hour watching Makoto as he watched the special. Halfway in, however, she realized that he would show no reaction. She looked genuinely surprised at this. Even some of the girls at archery practice who were total sticks in the mud got a laugh out of this! When it was finished, Makoto simply shrugged, “It was entertaining, I’ll admit, but not that funny. Nice try, though.” Yukari sighed, but then remembered she had 5 more days left. That's plenty of time!

TUESDAY

Ok, maybe there were a few over the top scenes in that comedy special, but luckily for her, she had a little backup this time around: One Koro-chan! Koromaru had always been able to get a laugh out of the other members of S.E.E.S. every once in a while. Even Aragaki-san despite the fact he'd never admit it. Maybe this was her ticket to hearing Makoto do the same! (A-And get her 3000 yen, of course!) But alas, no matter what the gray shiba inu did, Makoto’s expression remained relatively the same, although he did smile at the dog and pet him a bunch, so that's a plus! Yukari decided she needed to get more serious about this. She had been trying methods that would get her to laugh. What she needed now was to find out what would make him laugh.

WEDNESDAY

Yukari spent the entire day watching Makoto. Looking at every little thing he did, listening for something, anything! Anything that would give her a hint as to what he found funny. She even took notes! As she was doing so, she then saw Aigis observing him too! At first, she was annoyed. Ever since Yakushima, the blonde automaton had been essentially stalking Makoto everywhere he went. Weirder still, Makoto didn’t seem bothered by it! In fact the only time he was bothered by it was when she broke into his friggin’ room! (Albeit, it was because she woke him up 5 minutes before his alarm.) At first, she was about to scold her, but then she had an idea! She then walked over to her and lightly tapped on her shoulder. Aigis turned to face her, “Ah, greetings Yukari-san, have you decided to partake in watching over Makoto-san with me?”
“Err, not exactly.”
“Then are you here to scold me for, quote: ‘stalking Makoto-san’? If so, I have also noticed you ‘stalking’ him as well. That would be, as Junpei-san once said: ‘the pot calling the kettle black.’”
“That’s not-!” Yukari sighed, realizing her emotions were about to get the better of her, “Listen, I’m just trying to find out what’ll make him laugh and considering you follow him around all day, maybe you noticed something?”
Aigis thought for a moment, “I do not believe I have ever once recorded Makoto-san laughing, although I can recall a moment he said he found humorous.”
“Really!?”
Aigis nodded, “It was when I asked him about something in a Yakuza novel we were reading, there was a line that said ‘That ass better not crack under pressure.’ I asked him what it meant and I asked him if people’s asses were usually cracked. I heard him let out a sharp exhale at that.”
Yukari sighed, “Well, that’s better than nothing, Thanks.”
Aigis smiled, “You are most welcome, Yukari-san,” She then turned back to continue her endeavors of watching an unaware Makoto as Yukari made her way back to the dorm, formulating a plan of attack for tomorrow. A most foolproof plan! This time for sure! She would get Makoto!

THURSDAY

Yukari had the perfect set up! Makoto suspected nothing when she invited him to read a book together! And as they were reading, they finally reached the part for her moment of truth! “Hmm, that’s odd…”
Makoto looked up, “Hm? What is?”
“They pass a sign that says ‘Road Work Ahead’. I mean, considering how long they’ve been driving now, I would hope it does!” Yukari awaited Makoto’s reaction.
Makoto just kinda stared at her, confused, “Huh, that sounds like something Aigis would say. Have you been hanging out with her? Does that mean the two of you are finally getting along?”
Yukari’s face fell. Her plan had failed, “Y-Yeah… Something like that…”
"That's good. That'll make Tartarus trips a lot easier." After Makoto went out to do God-knows-what once they finished their little reading date hangout, Yukari just silently went to her room, lay on her bed and stared at the ceiling. It had taken 3 months for her to get Makoto to smile. Trying to get him to laugh in just one week? That was next to impossible! Perhaps the only reason Makoto snickered at that "joke" Aigis made was because she was genuinely asking about it. She had made a game for herself in which she had no chance of winning. Groaning, she looked in her wallet. At least she could pay Makoto as soon as the week was over...

FRIDAY

Yukari opened the door and slammed it shut, plopping onto the couch face down, sighing. She had failed… The week was almost over and she had yet to even get a hint of a laugh from Makoto… “Yo, Yuka-tan, everything alright?”
Yukari looked up to see a concerned Junpei sitting on the opposite couch, “It’s nothing…”
“Doesn’t look like nothin’. You wanna talk about it? Maybe your ol’ pal, Junpei can give you a hand!”
“I… I made a bet with Makoto where if I could make him laugh before the week’s over, I’d get 3000 yen. I’ve tried everything! But in the end, it looks like it’s truly impossible.”
Junpei nodded, “Makodude’s pretty weird. I mean, I once saw the guy eat four whole cheeseburgers in the span of 30 seconds. I’m pretty sure he might be part snake.
“For real?”
“Cross my heart, hope to die!”
Yukari was almost impressed, but then shook her head, “Why are even telling me about that!? That’s not gonna get him to laugh!”
“Hey, I was just sayin’ the guy’s pretty strange. Maybe he has an even stranger sense of humor?” Junpei said, when he suddenly got a twinkle in his eye, “Hey… I think I got an idea to get Makodude to laugh.”
Yukari immediately perked up at this, “Really!? Tell me!”
“Slow down there, Yuka-tan! If ya want my help, I’m gonna need a little…incentive. I thinkin’, I dunno… half the prize money?”
“Half!? That’s insane! No deal!”
“Fine then, I suppose you’ll just have no choice but to pay up… Although, I get the feelin’ you ain’t exactly in this for the money…”
“Wh-What’s that supposed to mean!?” Yukari demanded, face redder than the tomatoes Makoto grew.
“Oh, nothin’...” Junpei said, shrugging, “‘Sides, even if that isn’t the case, getting 1500 yen is better than losing 3000 yourself, no?”
Junpei had a point. Yukari knew better than to admit that aloud. And he was also right about her ulterior motive… Considering tomorrow was her last day to win the bet… It looked as if she had no other choice, “Alright, fine. You win… What’s the plan?”
Junpei smirked, “Oh, you’ll see…”
Yukari cringed at that. She did not like where this was going. But then again, it was either go with whatever Junpei’s brain had come up with or lose a chunk of her allowance. And the former option was looking pretty good right about now.

SATURDAY

Makoto, Yukari and Junpei found themselves together in the lounge, watching TV. Whatever Junpei was planning, he had better do it now! “Hey Makodude.”
“Hm?”
“Didja know that French people like to eat snails?”
Makoto nodded, “They’re considered a delicacy there, why do you ask?”
“Oh no reason,” Junpei said, a smirk forming on his face, “Though if ya ask me, it sounds like they aren’t the biggest fans of fast food!”
Wait, that was his plan? Ikutsuki-level puns!? Yukari groaned, she knew asking Junpei for help was a terrible idea… She was as good as doomed now. Puns like that would probably make it so he would never ever laugh for the rest of his life… But then, she heard a puff come from Makoto. No way… It was working?
“Oh, Makodude, have I ever told you I’ve been reading a book on the history of glue? Man, it’s really good. So good, in fact, I can’t put it down!”
Another sharp exhale. It was working! How was it working!?
“Have I ever told you about the time I went to a zoo where the only animal there was a dog? Yeah, it was a Shitzu.”
A snicker this time.
“Man, have I ever told you guys how much I hate straws? Man, they’re for total suckers!”
Makoto was covering his mouth now, trying to get his snickering to die down. He was losing his composure.
“Hey, you guys know how Koromaru is so smart? It must be his Shiba Inu-tuition!”
Makoto’s second hand slapped itself over the first. All they needed now was one final push.
Junpei then whispered something into Yukari. And she nodded. She knew what she needed to do now, “Jeez Stupei, you are such a lost paws.”
And that was the final nail in the metaphorical coffin. Makoto laughed. He laughed! It was a soft and gentle laugh. It almost didn’t sound real, were it not for the occasional gasps for air he made. Yukari smiled. It was a sound she didn’t expect to love so much. After a while, Makoto regained his composure and then pulled out his wallet. He pulled out a 3000 Yen bill and handed it to Yukari, “Well, a deal’s a deal.”
“Huh? Oh yeah, thanks. Hey, could you give me two 1000 notes and two 500 notes, please?”
“Oh, ok. What for?”
“I promised Junpei half.”
“Fair enough, I suppose,” Makoto nodded, doing just that as he chuckled to himself.
“Ya know, Yuka-tan, that ‘Stupei' thing was totally unnecessary there, ya know?”
Yukari smirked, handing him his half of the prize, “Oh, it most certainly was.”