Sweet, salty, spicy, sour. Even umami~!
Flavors of all varieties dance along your tongue. If heaven on earth exists, then this is certainly it. Sampling treats with a foodie like Sato is the best! Plus Koda has got to have a sixth sense when it comes to spotting great vegan fare. And Hagakure should honestly be on a leash with the amount of sugar she's consumed. Still, you grin broadly at your ragtag group of friends as the four of you pick your way through the concession stands.
Food merchants of all kinds hawk their wares, beckoning enticingly. It's more than enough to distract you from the recent crushing defeat— until you notice a distinct crop of golden blond hair in the distance. Something snaps inside when you see him. Your eyes narrow, cute little fist squeezing around the crepe in your hand until whipped filling is oozing across gloved fingertips. It hits the floor with a sickening splat. You invent an excuse to slip away from your friends and deftly maneuver through the crowd in hot pursuit.
You follow Monoma into one of the many freshmen waiting rooms, sinisterly pleased to see the two of you alone. As soon as he turns around, your knee becomes well acquainted with his stomach. The choked sound that comes from him doesn't bring you as much satisfaction as you thought it would though. You're still burning with fury. It's not until you slam him against a nearby wall that the sweet scent of fear finds its way into your nostrils.
"You hit like a fucking girl," Monoma spits despite himself.
"My quirk is not a toy," you bite back. "Don't even think about playing with it again."
He's sweating profusely but still grinning like a madman. "It wasn't personal! Not like I'll get another chance when you're kicked out of the hero course."
It's an attempt to rile you up even more, and you hate that it's working. Still, you remember the waves of insecurity and ineptitude that suffocate the boy from Class 1-B. Both of your quirks rely heavily on others. In another world, in another life, you could almost relate to him.
But ultimately, you would rather struggle and suffer endlessly on your own than bring someone else to their knees in order to make yourself feel strong. This is the thin line that separates you two. Peering into Monoma's cold blue eyes is like looking into a twisted funhouse mirror; a glance at a darker path that is always available to you, always calling to you. Even now, the scent of his poorly disguised fear is oh so inviting. But you refuse to give in.
"A hero who manipulates and uses others isn't much of a hero at all," you hiss.
Reluctantly you release the boy, concerned what you might do should you be around him any longer. The power from Hagakure's nightmare is humming insistently, desperate for release. Deep down, you know it's because you want to see more of his fear; you want to be sure that Monoma never forgets this feeling. It would be so easy, too. This is why you have to retract.
He spouts some self important bullshit as you leave but makes no move to follow. In truth, you've shaken Monoma to the core. You know it by the tremor in his voice and the heady scent coming off of his body. Not even ten minutes ago you were stuffing your pretty little face, but all of a sudden you're feeling hungry again. It's damn hypocritical, you think, that you want to see Monoma cry and beg for forgiveness when these are the thoughts swirling through your brain.
Honestly, neither of you are fit to be heroes.
You sigh, heavy feet carrying you towards the frosh locker rooms. With the way the teams are setup, it's possible someone from Class 1-B can place high enough to steal your spot in the hero course. Your worst nightmare is coming to fruition, and there isn't anything you can do to stop it. This calls for a quick cry in the showers before the noonday break ends! You're already unzipping your top when you spot Kaminari skulking around in the girls' locker room.
You quirk a brow curiously. "Denki-kun?"
The lightning user jumps, dropping a colorful garment as he says your name in fright. "W-what are you doing here?"
Your eyes are glued to the bright, discarded, pleated fabric. "What are you doing here?"
Kaminari exhales deeply, admitting defeat. "I just thought I could spice up the noonday break with a cheerleading event." He reveals the skimpy outfits to you. "It was just a bit of fun, really."
Your lips part as you hold up one of the flimsy garments, picturing your classmates wearing such a thing. "Just a bit of fun?"
Kaminari flushes a deep shade of red, and you find yourself liking seeing him this way. "Just a bit. That's all, I swear!"
You're smiling now, index finger at your lips, looking truly wicked. Can you even imagine the boys and girls of Class 1-A in such scandalous costumes? It's so stupid and so wrong, but you're intrigued nonetheless. Todoroki and Bakugou dressed like preppy schoolgirls. Yaoyorozu and Jiro in outfits they'd never in a million years choose for themselves. It's enough to make your blood run hot in your veins!!
"Well, who doesn't love a bit of fun?" You ask with a coy grin.
Kaminari blinks rapidly before flashing a knowing smirk. "Ya know in hindsight, the nosebleeds are a dead giveaway, cutie."
You giggle nervously behind a gloved hand. "I told you guys it's a medical condition, really~"
He laughs, easy and light. It's a nice sound. "This is perfect! You can convince the girls to wear these outfits."
You nod enthusiastically. "And you'll persuade the guys, right?"
Kaminari pauses, looking at you strangely. "What?"
You know for a fact that he heard you perfectly well the first time. Your expression sours. So it's fine to fool the girls, but the guys just get to kick their feet up and watch? What if you wanna see boys in skirts?? I mean, whatever happened to equality amongst heroes? Men can dress like sluts too dammit!
Not fair, not fair, not fair!!!
Frustrated and overwhelmed by the day you're having, you snatch the cheerleader uniforms from Denki's hands, ignoring his shouts of protest as you begin to destroy them. When he moves to stop you, the dark look in your eyes has him rooted to the spot.
"We could've been the duo to end all duos," you sigh, betrayed. "Pioneers for pervs everywhere. Now we both get nothing."
Kaminari watches in a state of shock as you tear the garments to shreds and stomp on the torn rags mercilessly. He's never been so petrified by such a pretty face before, and he's standing stuck there for a while after you storm out, sporting the weirdest panic boner he's ever had.
The trek to your class's reserved seats in the stands is slow. Your mind is somehow even louder than the buzz of noise from the audience. When your friends spot you trudging down the steps, they wave you over eagerly. It takes some effort to manufacture a carefree expression as you settle into the bleachers beside them.
Sato has saved your favorite snack, and Hagakure catches you up on the halftime events that you've missed. Koda, quiet and inquisitive as ever, seems to be the only one who suspects the true sourness of your mood, but thankfully he remains silent. You dive into some treats in order to have an excuse not to speak. Everything tastes good, but it's not what your body really craves, which makes you feel even worse. You're beginning to really despise this sensation.
After a few minutes, Present Mic announces the end of the noonday break and the continuation of the Sports Festival. The final event will be a Battle Tournament, and the crowd is churning with excitement. Before Midnight can commence the drawing to determine the pairings for the tournament, Ojiro shocks everyone by requesting withdrawal from the event.
From what you know about your classmate, he's a man of honor and dignity so this is doubly surprising. Ojiro explains that his participation in the Human Cavalry Battle was done by being manipulated and insinuates that it was because of Shinso's quirk. You glance over at the violet haired man in the Class 1-B seats who appears unfazed by the accusation. Sadly, Hitoshi must be used to this sort of thing. You have to wonder what his ability is.
Ojiro makes it clear that he understands the event is a rare opportunity and that walking away would be foolish, but ultimately believes he didn't advance on his own merit. Nirengeki Shoda from Class 1-B also requests to resign, feeling that he does not deserve to participate in the tournament. Midnight, liking their passionate reasoning for resignation, accepts the pair's requests to withdrawal from the event.
Midnight then says that the open slots will be filled in by the team that placed fifth.
You freeze as your face appears on one of the many Jumbotrons in the stadium, mouth wide open to take a bite of skewered dango. Then you see Sato, Koda, and Hagakure flash on screen as well, looking every bit as shocked as you are. The four students turn to each other in the bleachers utterly speechless before exploding with hoots and hollers of joy. Caramel popcorn is flying in the air, landing on an affronted Yaoyorozu. Your classmates chuckle at the scene, congratulating the four of you with good natured smiles.
"Is this for real?!" You ask in a state of disbelief. "We actually qualified..?!"
"Hell yeah we did!" Hagakure throws an arm around you and takes a selfie. "This is so lit! Finalists always blow up online."
"Wait, but there's only two empty slots," Sato deflates as he thinks aloud, "and there's four of us. How will we choose who competes?"
Your face falls, too. A situation like this could easily have the closest of classmates turning on each other. Thankfully, you really lucked out when making friends this semester. Hagakure quickly volunteers to sit this round out, pleased to simply be considered a finalist. Koda holds up a peace sign, citing his inherently pacifist nature as he also politely declines.
"Besides," Hagakure waves her gloved hand dismissively. "We know how much you two wanted this. Koji-kun and I will be cheering for you both!"
Midoriya is hurrying back to the class's assigned seats so that he can hear the matchups for the upcoming round. He's still reeling from his conversation with Todoroki, learning of his classmate's traumatic childhood and estranged father. The boy pauses at the top of the stairs as the large screens around the stadium light up with your name and face, along with Sato's.
Midnight reports that the two of you will be replacing Ojiro and Shoda from Class 1-B. You're advancing…? His chest swells, he's so proud of you!! All of your hard work was finally paying off!
Although he's been (reluctantly!) keeping his distance from you today, Midoriya could tell that falling short in the Cavalry Battle had been a crushing blow to your confidence. Bright jade eyes scan the bleachers for your face, hoping to see you happy — even if only from afar. However his brows twitch enviously when he spots you leaping into Sato's embrace, grinning and teary eyed.
Now rationally , Midoriya knows that the two students are just friends, but the sight still makes bile crawl up the back of his throat. Childhood insecurities begin to gnaw away at him from the inside out. Sato is so much taller and more muscular; is that the type of guy you prefer? Did a nerdy, fanboy loser like himself even stand a chance? Would you let Midoriya hold you like that, if he ever worked up the courage to ask?
The drawing is complete, and Midnight reveals the pairings for the tournament. It's the main reason he rushed over here, but now Midoriya can barely summon the strength to read the text onscreen. He manages to glean that his opponent is Hitoshi Shinso from Class 1-B before stumbling off in a daze to clear his mind. Nothing good could come from competing in the state he's currently in.
Not too far away, you and Sato take note of your own matchups with growing despair.
"K-K-K-Kirishima?!" You squeak. "He's, like, one of the toughest dudes in class!"
"And didn't Kaminari put you in the infirmary?" Sato mirrors your tone.
"Don't tell me you two are giving up already," Hagakure chastises.
"Not giving up," you say in a hollow voice. "Just well aware that someone is actively praying on my downfall."
Koda puts his palms together in a prayer pose, looking hopeful. Hagakure seems to catch his meaning and mimics his actions. "Yeah, we'll be your prayer warriors!"
Sato groans. "We're doomed."
There's a few recreational activities taking place before the actual tournament begins. You use this time to stretch and mentally prepare for the upcoming event in one of the frosh waiting rooms. You're still freaking out a bit, and end up taking a walk to ease your anxiety. After circling back around, you return to what you think is your original waiting room only to see it occupied by two of your classmates. Ojiro and Midoriya stop mid conversation when you enter the door, the latter quickly averting his gaze.
"Aha, pardon the intrusion," you titter softly.
"Nonsense," Ojiro waves a hand. "Midoriya and I were just finishing up." He notices the way you pause in the doorway. "Did you need something?"
Midoriya stiffens as you approach and bow. "Ojiro, I know you pulled out of the tourney for your own reasons, but… it means I have another chance. So I really appreciate it!"
Both of the boys are blushing as you bend over, the soft and supple skin of your cleavage peeking tantalizingly from your slightly unzipped gym top.
"Don't m-mention it," Ojiro replies, flustered. "Like I told Midoriya, just don't lose to anyone from Class 1-B."
You glance over at Midoriya, who has found a sudden interest in the ceiling. "Mido wouldn't lose to them, and neither will I."
Your calm and measured response makes the green haired boy blink in surprise. There it is again. That steady and unhesitating belief you have in him. He wants to look into your eyes, to say something— anything to you. The desire is like an itch he needs to scratch, and just when he thinks he'll give in, the sound of the door shutting as you exit brings him back to sobering reality. Although instead of relief, Midoriya only feels more restless and uneasy.
In no time at all, the recreational activities end, and the Battle Tournament event commences.
You sit with your classmates in the stands as the first match of the first round between Midoriya and Shinso begins. At this great distance, the two competitors look like swaths of green and purple paint. You can see Shinso's mouth moving onscreen, but you're unable to make out what he's saying.
If you didn't know any better, then you might think it's your name that Shinso's lips are forming when Midoriya suddenly snaps and attacks. The green haired boy shouts a reply then mysteriously stops moving. Present Mic and Aizawa in the commentators' booth explain Hitoshi's quirk, which allows him to mind control others after simply responding to his voice. The fact that he's determined to become a hero with such a powerful and frankly, villainous quirk is pretty commendable. There's no telling what sort of sick shit you could get away with using such an ability.
The stadium is eerily quiet when Shinso orders Midoriya to go out of bounds, and you watch in awe as the boy actually turns around and begins to walk out of the arena. Gloved hands come up to cover your eyes. You can't watch this!
Dammit Midoriya, I said you'd win. Don't make a liar outta me!
Behind your closed lids, thousands of blurry silhouettes appear, one for every person in the stadium. Down in the arena, Midoriya's little shape flickers and glows brighter, filling with different colors. When the prismatic light flows into his hand, you discern that this must be One For All. But how the hell is Midoriya able to access its power while under mind control?
A gust of wind erupts from the arena, and you peek through your fingers to see Midoriya has destroyed a couple of digits, breaking free from Shinso's spell through sheer brute force. Hitoshi appears confused and tries to get Midoriya talking again, but it's a futile effort. The smaller boy rushes him, ignoring his words and even the punch to his face as he pushes Shinso towards the arena's edge and out of bounds. Hitoshi grabs his neck in a last desperate attempt, but Midoriya counters and throws the taller young man over his shoulder and out of the arena. The audience cheers as Midoriya is declared the winner of the first bout.
You exhale, relaxing in your seat now that it's over. Although you were confident Midoriya would succeed, that was still kind of hard to watch… It's only the first round, and the dude is already breaking extremities left and right! Recovery Girl is gonna have a conniption.
Iida and Uraraka rise from their seats, presumably to go see their friend being sent to the infirmary. You're concerned as well, but Midoriya has made it pretty clear that he doesn't want to interact with you. Not today… maybe not ever again? Ugh . This is definitely the worst part of having a crush; watching it fizzle out when the other party realizes it's going nowhere. It was bound to happen eventually, but you'll miss Midoriya's bashful smiles and lingering touches all the same.
He really was so much fun to play with.
You sigh deeply, bored and more than a little distracted as the second match starts up. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to know that Todoroki will defeat Sero. Poor luck on Hanta's part, but he still tries valiantly. Sero wraps his tape around Todoroki, hoping to get him out of bounds. However, half and half creates a massive pillar of ice in retaliation, completely immobilizing Sero and freeing himself in the process. Hanta, unable to move at all, is declared the loser, and Todoroki is deemed the winner, thus moving on to the second round. So then why does he look so melancholy as he thaws his opponent with his fire power?
Before his match against Kaminari, Sato comes to you and asks for any advice you can offer him. It's not much, but you remind Sato that Kaminari's lightning arcs in all directions, which is how he was able to get the drop on you during your Battle Trial. Avoiding being hit completely is highly unlikely. However, if he can power through a blast, then Sato should be able to overwhelm the smaller man.
The third match still ends rather quickly as Kaminari immediately unleashes one of his most powerful electric pulses. Residual static in the air makes everyone's hair float, and both men are laid out on the floor. Sato is unconscious, and Kaminari drools, holding two thumbs up while sporting a moronic expression. Denki is declared the winner and moves on.
You pass by Midoriya furiously scribbling in a notebook as you follow your friends up the steps to see Sato in the infirmary. You hadn't even noticed he'd returned. Even now he's dutifully note taking intricate quirk aspects. Goddamn nerd never rests. His minor injuries are healed at least. He doesn't look up as you walk by. Your group spends a few matches cheering up Sato; you and Koda make silly faces imitating Kaminari while Hagakure insists Sato lost on a technicality alone (BIG stretch, but it seems to do the trick).
Eventually the four students return in time for your match with Kirishima.
The nerves resurface full force when you step out onto the arena, pocketing your gloves. As your opponent approaches, you can't help but to notice how tall, broad, and muscular he is. You've watched Kirishima in combat training enough to know his muscles aren't just for show either.
Physically this is going to be extremely difficult, but you've thought up a strategy. Your best bet will be to counter Kirishima's attacks and put him to sleep as quickly as possible to end the match. Still, you have a feeling this'll be easier said than done. The sound of your knees knocking together is drowned out only by the roar of the crowd, but Eijirou sees clearly how nervous you are.
He grins sheepishly, big and bright with his sharp teeth on full display. "Fighting girls really isn't manly at all. But don't worry, I'll try not to hurt you!"
Suddenly you feel quite silly, having forgotten such an important detail during your painstaking planning process. Yes, Kirishima is big and strong— but he's also devastatingly handsome. And while he may have a tendency to let his eyes wander, you've come to understand that he's actually really chivalrous and gentlemanly. A true himbo, he checks every damn box. This match isn't going to just be difficult, it'll be near impossible! Especially if he keeps looking at you like that— glistening with sweat and smiling sweetly. You're starting to feel lightheaded.
Focus, sisters, we must remain focused.
This is the mantra in your mind as you get into your defensive stance. The match starts and Kirishima charges at you like a bull. You back up as he advances, drawing him closer to the arena's boundary. He moves like he's going to grab your upper body— but it's a feint! Large hands hoist your hips up and onto his shoulder with such ease that you feel like nothing more than a sack of potatoes as Kirishima attempts to quickly carry you out of bounds.
He's careful to keep your chest pressed firmly to his back so you can't reach his exposed skin. You're forced to knee him in the chin, loosening his grip enough for you to slip down. You land on your hands, kicking him in the back to continue his forward momentum. Kirishima hardens his hands and drives them into the floor, catching his body before he can go flying out of the arena. The swift and heated exchange has the crowd going wild.
You're already apologizing for going on the offensive, but your voice dies in your throat when you foolishly catch sight of his face, his features. Kirishima's tongue, fat and long and pink and dripping wet, hangs out of his open mouth. There's a few deep gashes in the appendage, and his pointy teeth are covered in viscous scarlet blood. His pupils are blown wide, dark cherry tinted eyes looking a bit teary.
"Ah, I bit my tongue," he pants. "Haven't done that since I was a kid."
Spitting a mixture of blood and saliva, Eijirou is terrifying and gorgeous in a way that makes you clench around nothing. Red stains his parted lips, making him appear even more feral and shark-like. Right now Kirishima looks like he could bite a chunk out of you, and you'd happily thank him for his service!
This isn't cheating? Psychological horny attacks aren't against the rules??
You take a few hesitant steps back as Eijirou begins to make his way toward you before turning on your heel and running in the opposite direction. There's no other option but to get some distance until you can calm down and think straight.
"Hey, it isn't manly to run away!" Kirishima calls, racing after you. "Get back here!"
It looks like I'm about to be eaten on national tv— and not even in the fun way!
You're utterly mortified when the first gush of blood streams freely from your nose. Present Mic struggles in his attempt to theorize your tactical retreat (and sudden nasal injury?) as the audience looks on in confusion watching Kirishima chase you around the arena. Aizawa groans and facepalms in the commentators' booth.
Kirishima is gaining on you. At the last possible moment, you spin, weaving around his outstretched arms like flowing water. All it takes is the slightest graze of your skin against his, and you see his eyes begin to flutter. Sidestepping his now sluggish movements is easy as he tries to fight through your quirk's effects before Eijirou ultimately succumbs, falling to his knees. You catch the collar of his gym shirt, holding the sleeping giant upright to prevent him from slamming onto his face.
Seeing such a big, strong man on his knees in front of you is doing absolutely fucking unspeakable things to your ego. But not as much as Midnight declaring your victory over the adoring crowd. You advance to the second round of the Battle Tournament!!
Kirishima looks unbelievably soft as he sleeps. It feels almost criminal to wake him. You wipe the quickly drying blood from your face with the back of your hand before slapping his cheek lightly to rouse the young man. Both of your quirks activate on contact, scenes flooding your brain as his body hardens. A boy with jet black hair and ruby red eyes. A girl with Sakura pink skin and hair. Both terrified, but only one leaps into action against an unseen threat.
A yawn pulls from you while Kirishima blinks awake. His quirk deactivates, and he looks so much like that little boy in this instant. (Damn that's a really good dye job.) Also was that Mina you saw? Were they attacked by some villain?? So many thoughts are swirling in your mind.
"Wha..?" Kirishima slurs groggily. "Aww man, did I lose?"
You tense, unsure how he will react. What if he blows up at you? The masculine types tend to be overly sensitive, especially when being bested by a girl. And you felt the same thing dwelling in Eijirou that had made a home inside that prick Monoma as well; deep, welling insecurity.
But Kirishima just grins cheekily and rubs the back of his head. "Bro, you've been really practicing!"
You smile all wobbly. "Yeah, I have. Your quirk is really cool by the way! It protected you even in your sleep."
He actually blushes at that. "It's not very flashy… but thanks anyway."
"Sorry about your tongue," you say as you put your gloves on. "But I have to know… why didn't you get hard for me then?"
His blush darkens at your choice of words. "Like I said, I didn't wanna hurt you. Could've shattered your little kneecap."
Your lower lip juts out as you pout with displeasure at his response. "I see."
You walk off the arena without another word. Your peers congratulate you on your victory, but knowing that Kirishima was so concerned with not hurting you makes your win feel… tainted somehow. Your whole combat style is focused on defense, but when it came down to winning you didn't hesitate to go on the offensive and even go so far as to draw blood from your opponent. Yet Kirishima was holding back— after you explicitly told your classmates not to do that . It's hard not to feel more than a little jaded, and your leg bounces in your seat as you silently seethe.
The final match of the first round is between Uraraka and Bakugou. It's rough, to say the least. Bakugou keeps his distance, using his explosions at long range to wear her down. Uraraka gets knocked back many times but keeps attacking. Bakugou blasts her even when she's lying prone on the arena floor, causing the crowd to turn on him, openly rebuking his actions. There's a particularly loud, grating voice from the audience that really gets under your skin.
"Stop toying with the poor girl," a Pro hero you're unfamiliar with shouts. "You're not being very heroic—"
"Would you shut the fuck up?" You demand, shocking your classmates with your sudden and profane outburst. "They're both giving it their all! That's the only thing that matters."
Aizawa also criticizes the audience, saying that Bakugou is on guard due to recognizing his opponent's strength. For once, you and your homeroom teacher are of the same mind. With a solemn nod in agreement, you turn your attention back to the match.
The ring is covered with dark plumes of smoke from all the constant explosions. Floating high above are countless pieces of rubble and debris made from Bakugou's many attacks, and Uraraka taps her slender fingertips together to release it all at once. The meteor shower appears impressive as it comes raining down, but Bakugou uses a huge explosion to blast it all away and knock Uraraka down at the same time. The small girl tries valiantly to drag her body forward, but it's clear she's surpassed her limit when she collapses motionless. Midnight determines Uraraka is unable to continue, and Bakugou is declared the winner.
Something compels you to stand up and applaud. You don't really care for either one of them, but the intensity of their battle moves you nonetheless. This is the type of match you desire. No holding back, no going easy, no fear of hurting a girl whose got nothing to lose. You know that you won't be satisfied until you get just that.
The first match of the second round is between Midoriya and Todoroki, and many of your classmates sit up straighter in unbridled, eager anticipation.
The battle is an exceptional flurry of wind and ice. Midoriya is shattering fingers like it's nobody's business, and Todoroki looks even more severe than usual. Before long it seems as though he's suffering from using his ice so much, shivering and evading much slower. And Midoriya is running out of digits to break as they both shout passionately at each other. Then, you see something you've never seen before. Todoroki smiles. He sets the left side of his body ablaze, beautiful bright red and orange flames licking around his slim frame.
The Number Two Pro hero Endeavor booms with deep, dark laughter, walking down the bleachers to watch the match at a closer range. His flaming facial hair intensifies as he yells at Todoroki to surpass him and realize his ambition. Your eyes pop out of your head when the connection is made that your classmate is a goddamn nepotism baby to the Number Two. The totally smoking hot, rich ass DILF Number Two! That one! You wonder in a lusty haze if Todoroki— no, Shouto is in need of a sexy young stepmom.
Meanwhile in the arena, both competitors power up for their final attack; Todoroki launches a great wave of ice at Midoriya while the smaller male jumps, using One For All to get as close to Shoto as he can and launches a great wind pressure blast at his opponent. Cementoss creates a cement wall between the two combatants in an attempt to stop them.
However, both young men press onwards with their attacks. Shouto uses his fire power to ignite the cold (generated by his wave of ice) to create a huge wind blast which, along with Midoriya's wind pressure attack, creates a huge shock wave which blasts both of them back and destroys Cementoss's cement wall in the process. The shock wave is felt throughout the entire stadium, blowing through your curly hair and chilling you right down to the bone.
After the shock wave subsides and the dust clears, Todoroki is seen standing in the ring with a quarter of his shirt ripped off and without any injuries. Midoriya, however, is standing out of bounds. His right hand is mangled, the flesh there an unnatural shade of purple. The greenette finally succumbs to his grievous wounds and falls flat onto the ground. Shouto is declared the winner, and thus Midoriya is eliminated from the tournament event. But he didn't lose to a member of Class 1-B, and that fact seems deserving of recognition in and of itself.
Incredible! Class 1-A… really has an insane amount of power!!
Iida, Uraraka, and Asui rush to the infirmary, and you watch their backs with a torn, forlorn expression on your face. Hagakure nudges you in encouragement, but you remain seated, mumbling something about watching the upcoming battles. Yet your eyes are glazed over, completely unfocused for the next few bouts.
It isn't long before your own second round match.
Tokoyami doesn't say a word as you both walk into the arena, the smooth curve of his beak clamped shut tightly. That's fine; you don't really feel like talking much either. Your gloves come off as the match begins.
Dark Shadow reveals itself from his navel, launching at you as Tokoyami hangs back. The manifested quirk slams its head into your body forcefully, driving you back to the arena's edge. He's using the same strategy that eliminated Yaoyorozu in the first round. It's difficult to dodge when Dark Shadow can move in practically every direction, and you're thrown to the ground repeatedly. However, you notice that Dark Shadow is careful to attack only where your skin is covered; shoulders, chest, back, legs, etc. You have a working theory.
You move like you're going for Tokoyami once more, but at the last moment before Dark Shadow defends, you twirl into the air. Your arms wrap around the quirk's form, holding on tightly as your back hits the ground with a thud. The quirk itself feels cool to the touch, but not unpleasant, like a soothing Spring rain shower. Much to your surprise, images flash into your mind as Dark Shadow falls asleep, but they are far more abstract than the usual episodes. Darkness and rage and chaos. Black feathers dancing in the wind. Loneliness and despair.
"Dark Shadow!" Tokoyami screams, louder than you've ever heard him speak before. He looks panicked, frantic even, as he runs right towards you. "Dark Shadow!!"
You carefully release Dark Shadow and stand, catching Tokoyami's arms much easier than you expected and pinning them behind his back. It's because he isn't looking at you, you realize; Tokoyami's gaze is glued to Dark Shadow's slumbering form.
The young man in your embrace is surprisingly built, lean and sinewy like a bird, which you suppose is rather fitting. His body goes completely slack in your secure hold, inky black eyes fluttering shut. The scenes that force their way into your brain are even more vivid. Light and dark, a constant struggle for balance. Razor sharp talons drawing blood. Dark Shadow running rampant and… consuming Tokoyami entirely.
It's utterly terrifying. You feel Tokoyami trembling in your arms, and you realize belatedly that it's you who's shaking. These two beings who share a body are both horrified at the very idea of losing control— but even more so of losing each other. Together, they paint a chilling picture. What must it have been like to manifest a quirk with its own hopes, dreams, and fears? To know for a fact that even when you're all alone, you never truly are…?
Midnight announces your victory, pulling you from your thoughts, and you set to work rousing the pair quickly. Tokoyami's jet black feathers are unexpectedly soft, ruffling slightly as he stirs to consciousness. He's mumbling Dark Shadow's name deliriously.
"Dark Shadow is fine," you cover your mouth as you yawn.
He relaxes only when the quirk nuzzles up to him affectionately. "I was so worried you'd give him a nightmare."
You avert your eyes, trying not to look as hurt as you feel. Is this what the others thought about you too? "I wouldn't do that."
Tokoyami has the decency to at least look ashamed. "No, I don't mean—, ugh , Dark Shadow… often suffers from night terrors."
" Oh ." You watch the tender way he holds the quirk, feeling your chest tighten. You hear the tears in your voice before you feel them. "You're both… really lucky to have each other. I'm so jealous!" You meant it to sound lighthearted, but the simmering truth behind your words is nigh impossible to ignore.
There's a pink hue coming from Tokoyami— he's blushing! An unfamiliar voice squawks, "Fumikage is flush! Fumikage has a crush!"
"Dark Shadow!" Tokoyami scolds.
"It speaks!" You gasp in shock before devolving into a fit of giggles, wiping your moist eyes. "Of course it does."
"Fumi, you told me to be careful— you said she's scary, but I like her!" Dark Shadow chirps happily while Tokoyami looks more and more embarrassed by the second.
You chuckle, putting your gloves back on before tentatively petting Dark Shadow. "I like you, too! I'm not that scary, am I?" The quirk eagerly snuggles up under your affection, and you coo. "So cute~!"
"You'll spoil him," Tokoyami scoffs, but his dark eyes are full of warmth.
You yawn again as you exit the arena, mentally running damage control. You're scraped up and badly bruised from your match with Tokoyami, but no serious injuries that require an immediate trip to the infirmary. That's good, because Recovery Girl's healing might sap too much of your energy, leaving you in poor shape for your next fight.
It hits you then— you're really going to be in the final four! A broke girl from the sticks has managed to claw her way into the nation's spotlight, even if it's just for one day. You can hardly believe it!!
You feel as though you're walking on a cloud as you return to the stadium seating. At the top of the stairs, Iida and Midoriya are chatting idly. The taller male spots you first, calling out your name along with an overly formal congratulations. The shorter one jolts, turning with stiff mechanical movements and parroting similar, generic praise. He's still being all pitchy and fucking weird , but you're far more concerned with the various injuries littering his body. Midoriya's gym uniform top is unzipped, bandages crisscrossing around his lean torso. His right arm is in a sling (again!), and the fingers there are crooked and scarred.
"M-Midoriya, your injuries aren't fully healed," you offer, as if that isn't obvious.
His bangs hang low over his face. "Recovery Girl refused to heal any more of my self inflicted wounds. I'm fine though, really! I just have to work even harder to make this power my own." Midoriya's eyes widen comically at his small blunder. "I-I-I mean, it is mine! I've always had it! N-no one else's."
You huff a laugh as Iida looks at his friend curiously. He's such a shitty liar, it's truly a miracle Midoriya's secret hasn't been discovered by any of your other classmates yet. It's also not lost on you that this is the most he's spoken to you all day. That adorable little stutter of his makes you hopeful it won't be the last time.
"Of course," you hum in agreement. "It's yours. No one else's."
Iida says your surname, scrutinizing you behind his lenses. "You should head to the infirmary as well and get your minor injuries treated. Come, I'll escort you."
"No thanks, hall monitor," you snort.
The class rep scoffs indignantly. "I know by your tone that you're trying to insult me, but hall monitoring is a thankless position that is essential to the framework of—"
You make sure to snore extra loud as you fall asleep right in front of him. Midoriya stifles a giggle while Iida blows a gasket.
A massive explosion from the arena startles you awake, and the trio of students turn towards the source. The final match of the second round between Kaminari and Bakugou has been decided. Bakugou will be joining you in the final four, along with Todoroki and Iida. The latter excuses himself to prepare for his match with icy hot. Then that means you'll be paired up against…
Suddenly it all feels a little too real. Your head is spinning as you stumble off in a daze, coming to grips with the realization that you are now well and truly fucked. Bakugou "Beats Bitches Up For Breakfast" Katsuki is going to murder your face right off your body. And you really like your face! It's a good face!!
Todoroki defeats Iida much too quickly. You're forced to cut your mini meltdown in the bathroom short. In what feels like no time at all, you're walking down the long, dimly lit corridor that leads to the arena. Why does it feel like you're striding towards certain death? For all you know, you'll be seeing the pearly gates by the end of this match. Your thoughts continue to stem down similarly dark veins until you hear a voice cut through the fog, shouting your name desperately.
You turn around in confusion. "Midoriya?"
He looks winded and honestly goofy as hell sprinting toward you while so heavily bandaged up. The boy doubles over just a few feet away, catching his breath. "Wait… just a second…"
"You probably shouldn't be running with those injuries," you suggest amidst his labored panting.
Midoriya is flushed from exertion and maybe… no, he's not even looking at you when he speaks. Those pretty green eyes of his are downcast. "Y-You shouldn't fight Kacchan. You won't be able to beat him."
An unexpected sucker punch to the gut! Friendly fire really does hurt the worst!
"Oi, thanks for the vote of confidence," you deadpan.
"I-I just mean," Midoriya rambles on as he struggles to find the right words. "Kacchan doesn't care that you're a girl. He won't go easy on you!" The boy pales. "You saw what he did to Ochako! And you've already made it so far in the Sports Fest. Y-You don't have to do this! Nobody would judge you for pulling out of this fight."
Midoriya has managed to pull the slot machine of your spiraling emotions and hit the fuckin jackpot. Each word that spills from his trembling lips makes the scowl on your features even more severe. He'd know that if he bothered to look you in the eyes while pleading for you to abandon everything you've worked so hard for.
You're no fool; you know that Bakugou is never the type to go easy on anyone. The idea of facing off against him is… mildly terrifying— but there's no way in hell you were going to back down!! After battling Kirishima who was scared he'd break you like you were some frail, porcelain thing and going against Tokoyami who was clearly distracted by his (more than just physical) attachment to Dark Shadow, you have to know for sure that you're being here wasn't all some massive fluke. The Sports Festival, the hero course, UA itself; you have to know that you've earned your place, that you deserve to keep your spot.
And there's another thought nagging in the back of your mind, so prominent that it surprises even you.
At what point did Midoriya and Uraraka get on a first name basis?
You walk towards him, and Midoriya breathes a sigh of relief, believing that you've come to your senses. He steps aside to let you pass, but your feet follow him instead of carrying you back to the stadium. The young man continues to retreat until he's pressed flat against the wall, whimpering like he's in pain and shrinking a bit as you crowd his space. His eyes are screwed shut tightly, but he can smell your fragrance and feel the warmth of your body hovering over him. Midoriya knew that it'd be risky chasing after you, but he never expected the conversation to go like this!
He's a few centimeters taller than you, but it doesn't seem that way when he's practically cowering before you. All of a sudden, it makes a lot of sense why he was bullied so relentlessly. Seeing Midoriya whine, hearing his panicked breathing, it all serves to make you feel incredibly powerful and more than a little wet. And the heady scent of his fear; it's so good, so sweet, just like him.
A gloved hand comes up to caress a freckled cheek, and Midoriya sighs into your touch. He likes this, he likes you, so why won't he look at you? You grip his chin harshly, angling his face towards yours. Although he gasps sharply, Midoriya adamantly refuses to open his eyes.
"Please," he begs softly. "Don't do this."
The smell of his fright fills your nostrils, seeps into your pores so that you can understand it better. He's not scared of you, he's scared for you. That doesn't make it any better. You're always confident in him. Is it really too much to ask that he believes in you too?
You big dummy. I'll make it so that you can't take your eyes off of me.
You release him and step back, tearing your gaze away. "You should hurry back to your seat. The show is about to begin."
For better or for worse, you head towards the light at the end of the tunnel, and you don't look back.
The crowd is really amped up. There's even people chanting your surname when you step onto the arena. It seems you've developed some fans out there, hailing you as an Underdog. There's certainly far worse archetypes to fall into, and you suppose it is pretty accurate. No one expected the poor girl who came from nothing and a family of quirkless nobodies to make it to the UA Sports Festival finals. Honestly, you didn't expect it either.
But it's happening, that much is evident when you spot your opponent rolling his broad shoulders before you.
"Really dunno how ya even made it this far, Twenty," Bakugou rasps. "But I ain't goin' easy on ya like Shitty Hair."
The first comment has you rolling your eyes. The second one has you gritting your teeth when you realize he must be referring to your match with Kirishima. You wonder if Bakugou is well practiced at getting under people's skin or if it just comes naturally. Whatever the case, you're left feeling chagrined. A single gloved finger comes up, pointing at the commentators' booth.
"Whoa!!" Present Mic exclaims. "Looks like the little lady is calling me out!"
"Don't be stupid," Aizawa grumbles. "She's obviously pointing at me."
And even from this distance, the fiercely determined look in your eyes is as clear a message as any to your professor.
Witness me.
" Tch , either piss or get off the pot," Bakugou scoffs, unimpressed. "Take those prissy gloves off so I can put your lil' ass to sleep already!"
You shake your head, putting your fists up. "I think I'll keep them on… I want you to be awake to remember this."