Chapter Text
Fumikage helplessly lays on a king-size bed with crimson silk sheet. Wrists handcuff to the bedposts. The bird-headed teenager fruitlessly struggles and each struggle his white silk bed robe loosens revealing his lean chest.
Where is he?
How did he get here?
Why is Dark Shadow not assisting him?
A deep sinister chuckle pauses his movements. His red eyes search through the dim-lit bedchamber. The candlelight doesn't help the ordeal. A shadow looms over his body; it wasn't his quirk, though. His irises linger to the big figure. The stranger's eyes roam over their captive's body enjoying the little bird's quivering form.
Fumikage feels their cold fingers tenderly touching his feathered cheek causing the young man to tilt his head away from the unwelcome tenderness. "Such a pretty bird." Go away. Leave me alone. Who are you? Fumikage wants to speak but discovers words never escape his throat. He wants to scream and yell for help. His eyes probably portray his fear for his captor seems to enjoy it. "No one is coming for you. Relax. It will all be over soon. VERY soon." The stranger's breath tickles his left side, and it wasn't pleasant.
Someone – ANYONE – HELP! Please…Kosuke
The young avian eyes beginning to tear. No, he will not cry; he will not let his tears fuel this apparition's delight.
…please, help me.
Suddenly, the stranger pauses their advances and vanishes along with a dagger piercing their back. Fumikage hears footsteps coming his way. He spots Arcadia standing tall brimming with hope. The bird-headed teenager speaks his name and again, nothing escapes his beak.
The masked man walks up to Fumikage and flicks his right wrist. The restraints transform into butterflies. Fumikage sits up but pauses as a hand grabs his attention. He accepts it eagerly. With a thrust and a twirl, the dark setting turns into a bright and festive ballroom will fancy, overdressed partygoers. Fumikage notices his attire changed as well. From a red sleep robes to a black tux with a scarlet necktie. Arcadia's clothing changed from his signature purple attire to a gray tuxedo with lavender accents, a gray feathered fedora replaced his purple buckled witch hat. The one-piece of accessory is his eye mask.
Overall…
… overall, he looks very handsome. The masked man's gaze makes his knees weak quaking under the stare; his smiles leaves the boy more speechless as he already was. Arcadia raises his right hand; his left-hand raises, getting ready to signal the orchestra. The entire room grows silent (it didn't help the nervousness swelling in Fumikage's stomach.
The avian gazes at the partygoers. Their faces are covered by elegant and expensive masks. The bird boy knows their stares are locked onto the centered pair. Fumikage looks to Arcadia whose form hadn't moved as patient and comforting. The masked man's hand waits patiently to return the bird's gesture. Soft whispers surround them. Fumikage doesn't care; for that brief moment, he doesn't care about whispers or negative remark. He wants to dance with the mysterious man who captures his heart.
Fumikage slowly lays his small hand onto of Arcadia's firm palm. The said man waves his free hand and the band plays their music. Arcadia gently pulls his partner close with one hand in twine and the other lays on his partner's thin waist.
Fumikage's free hand rests on Arcadia's shoulder. They waltz in a small circle following the rhythm. Soon after, many spectators follow. Others remain watching and whispering. Fumikage could care less. His focus lies with his dance partner. Who is Arcadia? Who is the man behind the mask? Arcadia twirls and dips him with ease. They stare deeply into their eyes. Arcadia's knuckles lightly brush against his feathered cheek. He coos at the touch. The mysterious man leans in as he tilts his beak upward. Fumikage slowly closes his eyes and allow his partner to take his first kiss. He keeps leaning back yet he falls.
The dazed bird soon meets his bedroom floor with a heavy thud. He blinks away the eye crusts. His vision blurry before refocus seeing his familiar gothic esthetic bedroom.
Fumikage groans.
So close.
So, so CLOSE.
Dark Shadow towers over his fallen body. "Didn't get that kiss, huh?" he asks, smirking at his disheveled master. The response comes as another groan causing the sentient quirk to chuckle.
~MHA~
Fumikage sips his black coffee through a straw. He's always the first to rise before his parents. It gives some time to calm his nerves, especially since recent events. After the incident, Fumikage was plague by the teachers (Mr. Aizawa was among them) and he had to wait in the Teacher's Lounge until his parents came to pick him up. Before they showed up, the avian boy was questioned by the head detective, Naomasa Tsukauchi. He asked of Fumikage can gather after being kidnapped. Fumikage gave as much information as possible; he did left out why Obsidian wants him (heck, even Fumikage does not know).
He remembered his parents arriving. How his mother smothered his feathers with kisses and his father speaking calming to Principal Nezu. The raven-headed boy almost had the pleasure of meeting Endeavor and his raging fire for vengeance if it weren't for Mr. Aizawa and All-Might was blocking his way. His mother even threatened Endeavor if he so much as goes near her baby bird. His father protectively embraced his son and silently repeatedly wife's threat through his glare (his parents are not Endeavor's biggest fan). Nevertheless, his principal pardoned a week of absence.
It's been four days. That's enough time to recuperate and get back to school. He's a hero-in-training. He should familiarize with dangerous endeavors (did he just use wordplay?).
Can his parents accept his decision?
A ping breaks Fumikage's train of thought. He out his phone and smiles at the message.
Blond Hotness: hey have a good morning beautiful. 😊
Fumikage couldn't hold the smile spreading his beak. He doesn't know how Gushiken does it, but his new friend knows how to make him smile. Even during his absence Gushiken text him words of encouragement. Even a simple "good morning" was enough for his chest to feel and fuzzy.
"Geez. If it's one blond, it's the other." Fumikage looks to his quirk who stares at his host dubiously. He decides to refocus on finishing his black coffee. "Just let of them kiss you." Fumikage deeply blows his straw causing to draw large bubbles spilling hot liquid onto the kitchen counter (luckily none of it got onto his clothes). He gives Dark Shadow a glare before he grabs a wet rag to clean the mess while imagining the pesky sentient quirk as a physical entity so he can strangle him. "Hey, don't get mad at me! At least you get to have your first kiss before uou lose your virginity."
"Refrain yourself", Fumikage scolds, "I prefer not to let Father overhears. You know how protective he is when he hears my name and love in the same sentence."
"Yeah, yeah. He'll sing them into doing something embarrassing." Yes, his father wants to see if they are worthy to be his partner. His mother encourages her son to find hie true love. Oh, he told them he's gay. The aftermath wasn't so bad. His mother, Akari, was overjoyed and brimming with energy. His father, Ibuki, was impassive. It was expected; his father doesn't convey his emotions upfront, however, those closest can tell his emotions through his eyes.
"I want coffee!" comes gurgling whine which breaks his train of thought. The avian looks toward the sound to see his mother piggybacking his father. Fumikage's eyes soften at the loving couple. Two counterparts with opposite attitude. His father looks deprive of emotions except to his family who knows him more than himself. His mother always a free-spirited woman with an open-minded speech, but with her husband she's as gentle as a kitten.
His parents were married for 18 years and their love grows strong. He wasn't their birth child (they tried convincing him but to no avail). They told him they found hi m on a basket crying during a stormy night. An abandoned, month old infant who wanted love and attention and comfort away from the cold rain. His mother entailed how God answered their prayers.
Regardless, Fumikage love them with all his heart.
With a loving smile, Fumikage pours the fresh, brew coffee into a mug with "World's Best Hero" branded on the surface. "Here you go", he says giving the steaming cup of Joe to his mother's awaiting, trembling hand. The sleepy woman chugs the hot beverage as though her life depended on it. In a matter of seconds, she springs to action and jumps off her husband's back.
"Ah~" she says in a relieved sigh. "I don't know how you do it, Fumikage, but your coffee always gives me a spark of life." To emphasize her point, her light brown hair becomes an electric blue cracking little spark; her quirk is livewire where she become living electricity. He, too, doesn't know how his simple, black coffee can upturn a sleepy little girl into a lively woman. His parents jest of how his morning beverage is "Magic Coffee".
Heh, how humorous. Magic. There's no such thing. Nothing more than average black coffee.
A tap disturbs his mental monologue. He sees his father, Ibuki, pointing at him. His father cannot fathom voice his words due to his quirk, Serenade, which he sings his melody and it can either soothe or stress living organisms. It took a few seconds to figure out what his father was implying. Fumikage follows his finger and notice he is pointing to his uniform in general. His mother, after taking a long sip, notices her husband's gaze. "You're wearing your uniform", she states, "are you going back to school?"
Yes, he wants to say, yet his words remain lodged in his throat. The raven wants to tell his parents he is going back to UA. Doubt plagues his stomach. Will they be disappointed or furious? He was kidnapped recently. His mother tends to coddle him like he is a chick; he is NOT a baby! He loves his parents and if they love him as much as he does, they will support his decision. It doesn't help repeating those words.
"Yes", Fumikage quietly speaks, "I know it is too early for my return, however, I cannot become a true hero if I remain shelter in fear. I know the dangers behind the occupation, but I want to be a hero. It is my dream. I want to help people and prove to everyone with misunderstanding quirks can become a hero, too. Please understand."
He sees his parents sharing a look. Ever since he was a child, he believes his parents can telepathically communicate. They don't, they have known each other for so long bond is strong (though, Fumikage likes to imagine they have a telepathic conversation).
"We know it's your dream, sweetheart", his mother responds, his father slowly nods in agreement. "As parents, it's our job to worry. We know the dangers in a hero's path and UA is the school to do so. Oh, Ibuki, remember how small our Fumi was as a baby? Now look at my baby bird!" she starts tearing up yet jolts due to her quirk. Her husband nods and comfortably rubs her back.
"Mama, don't cry. You're shocking yourself again", Dark Shadow consoles her.
"I can't help it! My baby is going up too fast! My baby is growing up too fast! Next thing *bzzt* next thing *bzzt* you know he becomes a pro hero *bzzt* and moves out *bzzt* and get married *bzzt* and have babies of his own *bzzt* and the cycle starts all over! *bzzzzt* Wah!"
Fumikage gently grabs her hand. "I will always be your loving child. You care and nurture me like any family would. There are journeys where I must travel; obstacles to overcome. Do not fret. If I needed assistance, I know who to call. Ibuki wraps his arms around his family.
"Sob… we support you, Fumi. Right Ibuki?" his father nods again.
He has such great parents.
"Oh, mother. I have a request. May I use your sunhat? Akari, with remaining tears in her big, brown eyes, tilts her head in confusion.
Why would her son need a sunhat for?
~MHA~
Kosuke yawns. School sucks. Too early to get off bed. Hitoshi would be mad if he doesn't go. He threatened to brainwash him if he doesn't show up. Whatever. As long as he doesn't respond to his questions, he's all good.
"Good morning. Did you sleep well?"
"Morning Tosh…" his mind went blank. Aw, crap! He falls for it, again! Pain throbs in his left shoulder clearing the fog in his mind. "God damn it! Seriously!"
"Not my fault you keep falling into my spell", Toshi teases, nonchalantly, poking a jab at his magical friend.
"Really? A magic zing early in the morning. And you say I'm childish."
"Excuse me for trying to be enthusiastic. What crawled up your ass and died?"
"Sorry I didn't sleep much last night."
"Why? Too busy studying all night?" they hysterically laugh at the remark. "Right. Like you ever study."
"Yeah. That's a good one. I never study." They continue their laughter walking their way to UA. A few students pass by giving them strange looks choosing to ignore them rather than become a part of whatever sick joke they believe is humorous. Their laughter dies down. "Naw, man. I was out patrolling. Ever since we visited Madam Tarot I've been a bit . . . "
"Paranoid?"
"Worried."
"Ah, so he said."
Kosuke rolls his eyes. "Since then I've been patrolling the city each night. I even thought of creating a detecting barrier, so if any candidate set foot in Musutafu. I would know in a heartbeat."
Hitoshi nods in satisfaction. "Impressive. It took four days to create the barrier and setting it up. I will admit it's a good idea coming from you." Kosuke stops his pace. Noticing his friend not walking beside him, Hitoshi turns to his best friend who is nervously rubbing his nape and avoiding eye contact. The baggy-eyed teenager narrows his tired eyes. "You didn't do any of that, did you?"
"Hey, last night I thought of the idea. Did you know how long it be for preparations? Not to mention, how much in debt I would be with Madam Tarot! A lot! She'll keep reminding me about my tab whenever I visit or message me!"
Hitoshi rolls his eyes at Kosuke's exaggeration as he places his hand as low as he can. "You see my hand?"
"Yeah?"
"This hand shows how much respect you've lost", he raises his hand as his height and lowers it back to its original position. "You raised it sky high. Now watch it slowly plummets to the ground. Congratulations, dumbass."
"It's not like I do it on purpose!"
"What were you doing instead – wait a minute…" he gives Kosuke a dubious stare. "You fucking stalker", then walks away.
"I'm not a stalker!" Kosuke jogs while ignoring a pair of female students giving him skeptical looks.
"Yes, you are", Hitoshi retorts Kosuke is walking side-by-side. "Those nights you spent "patrolling"; you've spent your nights finding where Tokoyami lives." Kosuke's shoulders went stiff which Hitoshi notices (Tosh is good at looking at expressions). "Out of those times, you could have initiated a battle plan, keep on training your skills, ask Madam Tarot for assistance, ANYTHING! But no, you were too busy chasing birds. You need to take it seriously. Who knows when those candidates will appear? For all we know they could be here already."
The blond sighs. His friend always makes a valid point. "I know I should plan ahead. Have a strategy intact. I'm scared, man. I wanted to make sure Toko's OK even when I know where he lives. At least it will ease me."
"I'm just saying. You need to be on your A-game. Surprise can happen at every corner…"
"Is that Toko?"
"What?" sure enough after giving Kosuke his advice while walking around a corner, Hitoshi spot a male student wearing yellow sunhat too big for his head, a red scarf covering his lower face, and to top it off, black sunglasses. After one quick observation, he confirms the student is indeed Tokoyami in disguise. What is sad is how the raven tries to mold his figure into the shadows. "What is with the getup? Maybe we shouldn't –"
"Hey Toko!" Kosuke excitedly runs over to his crush.
"Bother him… my God, he's dense. Fates, if you're listening, please give Ko strength." Hitoshi runs after his lovesick comrade.
~MHA~
Become one with the shadows.
You are one with the shadows. The shadows are you. Do not make eye contact. They will not recognize you. He is halfway there.
He keeps mentally repeating his mantra. So far, no one approach him. He continues to linger in the shades. His mother's sunhat, surprisingly, has proving useful. But as an extra precaution, he put on his father's scarf and a pair of black sunglasses. If no one calls his name, he is in the clear.
"Hey, Toko!" his feathers puff up. Oh no! He has been compromised! Dark Shadow emerges out of his back, grabs the poor unfortunate soul to a nearby alleyway. Fumikage looks both way before discreetly follow his quirk. "…ow… that hurt", says an oh-so-familiar voice. He looks to the individual between Dark Shadow's talons. He could have sworn those bright green eyes illuminate the shadows. Their eyesight connects. "Oh, Toko. I knew your quirk grabbed me. Can you – you know – let me down? Then again,", Fumikage raises an eye ridge, "you really wanted me." His feathers puff up at Gushiken's theory. "Please be gentle. I'm ticklish."
"Woooww. This guy is too much", Dark Shadow quips.
"Indeed", Fumikage mutters.
"Am I interrupting something here?" three sets of eyes land on Shinso who keeps staring at his "hostage". "See, Ko. This is what happens when you yell someone's name like a blowhorn."
"Hey, Toko wanted some alone time with yours truly", Gushiken says, "can you blame him? I'm irresistible."
Shinso rolls his eyes. "Now isn't the time to be a Prince Charming wannabe."
"I won't stop until I French kiss my beautiful angel!" at the proclamation, Dark Shadow drops the blond. "Ow… don't worry! My butt cheeks broke my fall!"
Again, Shinso rolls his eyes. "If you're done, can we go before we're late?" he leaves his best friend and his crush. They wordlessly follow the plum-haired boy. The three UA students walk their way to the campus; Kosuke talks about the previous events (except what goes on in class because they go to separate classes and Kosuke would rather not talk anything school-related).
"Are the paparazzi at the entrance?" Fumikage asks after hearing about a herd of news people stopping each student questioning about All Might. Hopefully, no cameramen will not look at his direction. It is one of those rare moments where he is glad for his short height.
"Eh, I'm sure they went home", the blond proclaims, "Afterall, they kept asking what All Might like as their teacher and 90% of them aren't in the Hero Course. That's right, Daddy knows math."
"Please don't call yourself Daddy", Shinso groans, "I'm going on a hunch and say you're wearing that sorry excuse of a disguise to avoid the media." If it weren't for the scarf, his friends would see his feathers fluffed up.
"What! That's you! I didn't recognize you! I thought you were a celebrity on the run or wanted criminal or maybe –"
"Gushiken/Kosuke…"
"Sorry, Toko, it's a dead giveaway."
Fumikage heavily sighs. "I was hoping I would not be on television. After my rescue, the news station was able to identify my existence and insisted to have an interview."
"What, you were kidnapped!" Kosuke jumps, exaggerated.
'Way to be discreet, Ko', Hitoshi mentally states, sarcastically.
"Please lower your voice, Gushiken", Fumikage softly as he lowers his hat, "my presence should not be heard."
"Sorry… that would explain your absence. So, who do I have to hunt down to reclaim your honor?"
"Gushiken, even though your intentions are meaningful – which I appreciate – it is wise we should let the professionals handle such a task."
"Yeah, Ko", Hitoshi inputs with a knowingly smirk, "let the professionals handle it." It resulted with the blond reaching over the goth teen to wrack over his friend's head; he missed.
"Besides, the pro heroes did not rescue me. His name was Arcadia whom I believe is a vigilante. I tried to do some internet resource during my downtime, however, I did not find anything remotely informative. Arcadia… even his name is an enigma."
"I – I mean Arcadia must be a cool guy if he saved you", Kosuke squeaks, air pumping for his beloved approval.
"Well… I guess he is cool, yet I cannot fully trust him. Did he save me for recognition? Fame? Glory? He does realize vigilantism is considered a crime. I am certain you two are aware of it." Kosuke pauses mid-step. Wait… THAT'S a law? Hitoshi notices his friend sweating bullets.
"Of course, we do", Hitoshi replies, saving the petrified teenage boy, "we wanted to be heroes, too, you? A total moron wouldn't know about the quirk laws."
"Yep, Kosuke Gushiken is a moron.
"Anyway", Kosuke steps in as soon as he gets closer to his friends, "what do you think of Arcadia?" Fumikage lifts an eye ridge, a questionable stare glances his way. "What? Not many people get to be up close to the guy. Only a smidge of heroes gets to actually face him; Endeavor is an obsessed fan after all."
Fumikage looks ahead, visualizing his mysterious savior. "He was… noble. Brash, courageous, exceptionally powerful with how many abilities he displayed. He was able to freeze Endeavor who is rank as the Number 2 Hero…" Kosuke releases a haughty chuckle which results in Hitoshi slapping him upside his head. Fumikage seems to not notice as he taps his beak in thought. "He was an enigma in a warlock's costume, which I might say purple does not suit his structure. Blue would work be a much better choice to match his eye color." Hitoshi smirks to his friend's while the blond glares back silently responding to shut up. "He was creative using the elements to portray his weaponry. Also… he was… he was… was…"
The two childhood besties stop their walking to look at the dazed rave. "He was what?" they ask in unison.
"He was quite the charmer", the avian replies with a loving smile spreading his beak.
The shaggy indigo student gazes to his best friend whose face turns crimson at the smile.
"Wow… Toko thinks I'm charming… and a lovely smile to boot. I swear I must be dead if I'm walking with an angel." A big goofy smile comes forth along with a weak giggle.
"Is Gushiken alright?" Tokoyami asks, witnessing Kosuke sudden mannerism.
Shinso rolls his eyes (three times in one morning and it's not even class time). Great, Ko is in La La Land. "Don't worry", he reassures the worried raven, "he's probably visualizing you naked or something." His response causes the dumbfounded blond and the disguised hero-in-training to suddenly look in shock. Also, causing Kosuke to snap out of his train of thought.
"Dude, I never think such a thing!"
"Hmmm… you're right. The dirty thinking should come in during your relationship. Ko is probably imagining Tokoyami in a French maid outfit." Kosuke leaps into action. Hitoshi dodges and hides behind Tokoyami for cover. "Ko and Toko sitting in a tree. K-I-S-S-I-N-G. First comes love. Then comes marriage –"
"I swear to God I'll strangle you if you dare finish that line!"
"While harming Tokoyami? Such a bad boyfriend material. Isn't he a bad boyfriend, Toko-chan?"
Fumikage opens and closes his beak. He's not sure how to operate or say in the matter. Instead, "should we keep walking? I do not want to be late for homeroom." His statement causes the two taller teens to switch back to professionalism (well, as professional as Gushiken can be).
A loving high school couple walks pass them. "Aw babe, getting dolled up for me?" the boyfriend teases.
"That and for the paparazzi in case they take my picture", she replies. Their conversations cause the three boys to look at the couple.
"Man, those vultures are still there. Those people are so desperate to get a single interview from All Might."
"Not exactly. There's a student who knows Arcadia." Fumikage lowers his hat down and pulls his scarf up.
"I'm sure they're speaking another student", Kosuke reassures his crush, "you know how they are? They probably say anything for quick fame."
"I heard it's a student in the hero course", the girlfriend continues.
"I'm sure there's other students in the hero course. Right, Tosh?"
"Don't drag me into this."
"You're not helpful."
"Really? Did you hear what they look like?" ask the curious male counterpart.
The girlfriend hums in thought. "my bestie told me who heard it from her aunt's girlfriend's neighbor's son that they want to interview a male student from the hero course."
"Like I said, there's plenty of guys in there", Kosuke whispers to Fumikage.
"I also heard he's in Class 1-A."
"Once again, plenty of dudes."
"He has a bird head."
"Ah…"
"Ko, shut up", Hitoshi says.
"Right. Shutting up."
Fumikage folds his arms, hugging his shoulders. "Maybe I should have home", he murmurs in disdain. Kosuke was able to hear it, though.
"Don't worry, beautiful. I won't let anything happen to you." The bird-headed teenager looks deeply into those concern emeralds. For a second, he sees Arcadia's stature overlapping Gushiken's. "Please, for me, stay", he softly pleads, grasping the raven's petite hands.
"Yes", Fumikage quietly retorts. They stare into each other's eyes. Their surroundings mean little to them. They relish their company.
"If you're done with your staring contest", Shinso steps between the two gazing boys, "we have a dilemma involving getting inside UA." His interruption causes both boys to jump away. They secretly miss the warmth.
"Yes!" Kosuke brightens. "I already have a plan! We need a white company van, two custodian uniforms, a laundry cart with wheels, and… two very convincing mustaches."
"Kosuke, as your best friend, I love you as a brother I always wanted but that plan… is ridiculous", Shinso criticizes, "those things only happen in movies." Even Tokoyami shakes his head in disapproval.
"You don't know that! But okay. I always have a Plan B. We'll go over the wall. There's got to be a tree high enough to climb –"
"Pardon me, but I must say my piece", Fumikage says, "UA High School is Japan most pristine and well-known academic institution for future heroes. It would not surprise me if the very school we attend has intense security. Otherwise, the news people would have entered the premise already."
"Yeah… what he said", Hitoshi says in astonish.
"Alright, alright!" Kosuke grunts. "So… you don't like Plan A and Plan B is an obvious no. Fine! You leave me with no choice. It's time for the final course: the Ultimate Plan C." Shinso and Tokoyami glance to one another.
What is Ultimate Plan C?
~MHA~
"This plan is never going to work." Kosuke ignores Hitoshi's opinion. The well-known Debby Downer he is.
"Trust me, it's going to work", Kosuke encourages his friends.
"I must agree with Shinso, Gushiken", Toko inputs his two yens, "your plan seems to have a few gaps between point A and B."
"Some, he says", Tosh scoffs, "it has large holes! You might as well get ready for a headshot or wear a target in neon lights and pose while you at it."
"Guys, I got this", Kosuke says, "just let me do the talking and Yami, here, will play mute his irresistible, kissable beak." The blond UA student tightens his hold onto Tokoyami. He is currently carrying his crush bridal style. Tokoyami – tries as he could – buries his face into his shoulder. Shinso, unfortunately, plays the pack mole where he carries all their bookbags. They walk to the UA entrance gate. A group of paparazzi are shown gathering there; each reporter asking a passing student question. Probably about All Might, Arcadia, or Tokoyami related. A female reporter spots them and walks over with a cameraman.
"Excuse me, would you mind answering some questions?" she asks Kosuke – who she approaches first – with a microphone up to his face.
"Actually, I do mind", Kosuke retorts, keeping his grip on Tokoyami. "My cousin, here, has a fear of cameras and news people; practically faints at the sight of them."
"I find that hard to believe."
"There's a lot of phobia types nowadays even a fear of phobia in general", Hitoshi states, rolling along with the act. The raven remains mute and not lifting his head off Gushiken's shoulder, his disguise intact.
"Is that so?" the reporter asks, not entirely convinced. "Do either of you know a Fumikage Tokoyami?" she notices how the silent boy jumps at the name. "Looks like your "cousin" knows a thing or two."
"Just because he reacted doesn't mean my cousin knows something!" Kosuke counters, "he's getting uncomfortable. Can you blame him? I swear to God I will sue every single one of you; not to mention your boss, the place you work, and the network – all of them are getting sued! I know a lot of lawyers who can end your careers with a phone call."
Fumikage cannot see the expression that is portraying the boy holding him, but the sharpness in his tone sends shivers down his spine. He can never imagine Gushiken to be so…threatening. Guess there's more to the blond than just smiles and flirting.
"Heh", she scoffs, "you got balls for a high schooler, I'll give you that, but do I look like an idiot to you?"
"Normally a lot of people ask me that very question", Kosuke quips.
She evades his quip and counters,
"Obviously, you know who Fumikage Tokoyami is. Or, if I'm not mistaken, you're holding the student we want to talk to. All we want is an interview, to hear his perspective. Perhaps an incite on the identity of a mysterious vigilante: Arcadia."
"I'm sure Arcadia has plenty of fans admiring his greatness and all and definitely would want privacy not have a zillion reporters knocking on his front door."
"You speak as though you are him. Arcadia posing as a UA student is a perfect cover and away from society. Hiding in plain sight is ingenious. What better way to hide than to attend a high school for future heroes?"
Kosuke is immune to her advances. "Compare to Arcadia, I'm nowhere near as awesome, suave, and deliciously handsome as he is. I'm just your average, healthy boy in General Studies trying to survive three years in UA. Did mention I know lawyers?"
"Let them go, Hitomi", says the cameraman, "they want to go to class. UA is strict about tardiness."
"Am I the only one who can smell bullshit radiating off this brat? He's full of it, Kenshin!"
"Listen, guys, I know I'm irresistible and I don't blame you it's in my genes, but we're too busy playing footsies and I really want to get my cousin away from you truth-seeking vultures, no offense", Kosuke says, earning a double glare from the two news members. Hitomi is having none of this nonsense.
"What are your names?" she eagerly asks.
"I'm Sexxi Ani Knowit, my cousin is Sugarlips Honeybottom, my friend over there is Knicknack Pattywack." The news crew stare in disbelief at those names Kosuke feels the heated glare digging in his skull. Of course, he ignores it and focuses on the obstacle before them. "You've got our names; can we go now?"
Hitomi scoffs at the young man's boldness. "Fine. I don't want to be accused of UA suing us NOT because I was threatened by a nobody." The three students manage to get through the swarm and enter the schoolyard. As soon as they enter the building, the boys heave a heavy breath without realizing they were holding.
Tokoyami pulls down his scarf. "My goodness, I cannot believe your stunt worked."
"No kidding", Shinso agrees, "Kosuke, you may be an idiot, but you always have the biggest balls I've ever seen."
"To be honest, I thought I was gong to crap my pants", the blond says. The three UA students were quiet until Kosuke starts chuckling follow by Hitoshi. After, Fumikage quietly snickers along. A few seconds later, the boys are in a laughing fit (Tokoyami has a more softer laugh unnoticed by the other two).
"Oh my God. The names you come up", Hitoshi laughs, "you're fricking too much. Knickknack Pattywack, really? Not a big fan for my fake name, but the look on their faces. Woo! Classic."
The young magician opens his mouth to say something, yet his body stiffens. His eyes focusing beyond the entrance pass the schoolyard. A candidate? Now? How? Maybe he should investigate. No. he couldn't risk it. He's known to skip school. Not to mention, he promised Tosh he will skip classes only and return after his fight. The blond can feel his adrenaline pumping; his eyes burning; his conduit humming, matching his heartbeat. A beat later, the presence vanishes. He narrows his eyes, dilating its existence, unfortunately, he couldn't find it. Did he hallucinate? No way. Even he wasn't dumb enough to ignore his senses. It could be Obsidian or one of his paper dolls keeping a closer eye on Tokoyami. Probably finding an opening to kidnap his beloved bird boy.
Hitoshi stares in worry for his childhood friend. He knows that look. It is the look of his opponent nearby. He sees Kosuke's eyes flickering between green and blue. Oh crap. Tokoyami is trying to get his attention. Kosuke is trying to intercept the stranger's whereabouts.
"Gushiken", Tokoyami calls. The said boy doesn't respond. "Gushiken, you can put me down now. Gushiken." Again, nothing. The boy holding him tightly is too deep in thought. He nudges his shoulders, Fumikage feels the bulging muscle. The uniform certainly doesn't do him justice. If his friend were o wear a tank top and shorts – really, really shorty shorts – Fumikage could've died right here and gone to Heaven. Goodness, he suddenly feels hot. No, bad Fumikage, bad. Focus. "Kosuke", he utters. Speaking his first name brings Gushiken out of his daze.
Kosuke blinks. "Did you… say… my name?"
"Uh… no, you must be hallucinating!" the raven denies.
"Oh… my… GOD! That was so cute! Say it again!" the blond excitedly exclaims, hugging Fumikage of his dear life.
"Ko, homeroom", Hitoshi intrudes.
"Yes, to boredom!" Kosuke runs off.
"Gushiken wait! We need to change shoes before moving forward", Fumikage reminds.
"Okay! Where's your locker?"
"Release me and I will change my shoes with no assistance."
"Poppycock, I say! You deserve to be treated like royalty! Show me your footlocker and you will be Cinderella."
"Please don't"
Hitoshi rolls his eyes. This is going to be a long day.
~MHA~
This is going to be a long day.
Shouta Aizawa yawns. His yellow sleeping bag tucks in his arms. His posture slouches. Maybe should've left it in his desk. Then again, he shouldn't let Tokoyami wait any longer. His mother contacted the school to inform them of her son's early return. However, there is a slight dilemma. There are paparazzi at the school gates. Sure, they are here for an exclusive interview with All Might, but word got out a student was kidnapped and was recued by Arcadia. Hose reporters managed to dig up and piece together of the very student they wanted to interview is his student. Nezu ordered Aizawa to get to Tokoyami before he enters. Maybe he should stop by the faculty room to place his sleeping bag.
Arcadia…
He doesn't trust the witch-wearing vigilante. Arcadia is an unpredictable wild card. As dangerous as a double-edge sword; a very sharp double-edge sword. Whenever he shows, chaos reigns. All Might believes Arcadia can be a great hero.
Aizawa has doubts.
He has twenty students to deal with; he doesn't need a plus one. Let alone a loose cannon. Arcadia's quirk is unknown. Theorists believe he is a hybrid. Others decline. With no absolute fact from the actual vigilante in person there is just debates. Many civilians believe Arcadia is a villain playing a false role. A minuscule percentage of people believes Arcadia can be a great hero since the Number One Hero is one of those small percentage. A person with many quirks and no after affects does give people raised eyebrows.
Also, rumor has it that Arcadia is impersonating a UA student. Nezu believes the rumor. There is no evidence of his appearance. The principal told the teachers, including Aizawa, to keep their eyes and ears open.
Eraserhead spots something coming his way. Two boys running down the hallway. Okay, it's not unusual to beat the clock. What's unusual to him is one of them carrying another boy wearing an oversize sunhat. The boy being carried yells for his friend to release him the voice sounds too familiar. He narrows his baggy eyes.
"Tokoyami?" he questions as he eyes the lithe teenager. Aizawa looks to the tow taller boys. Obviously not apart of his class. The boy carrying his student is a tall slender boy with caramel skin and his messy sandy blond hair in a ponytail; his green eyes shine mischief. He should be wary of this one. Aizawa looks to Boy #2 is a bit smaller by an inch or two.
His fluffy plum hair stands up all over. His exhausted eyes match the Underground Hero. It's strange. He reminds him of someone he once knew. Who was it?
Who was it, indeed?
"Dude, Droopy Eyes is checking you out." Aizawa's eye twitch at the remark
"Unless he wants to lose his job, he's not stupid enough to perform a sexual harassment", the mini–Droopy Eyes counters.
"Mr. Aizawa, good morning", Tokoyami casually greets, "are you heading to Class 1-A?"
"As a matter of a fact, I was on my way to pick you up." Tokoyami tilts his head, his blond friend mimics. "Your mother called to inform your arrival. I was supposed to retrieve you away from the reporters. Instead, you managed to maneuver them without suspicion."
"It was my plan, Mr. Aizen!" the blond steps forward a little too close to Eraserhead's personal space. "It was cunning! Brilliant! We went full on spy mode!" he says with pride.
"We basically lied to the reporters to get through", the plum-haired student summaries. "It wasn't easy. They almost caught us."
So that was how it went.
"Nevertheless, I can escort Tokoyami to his class", Aizawa says, staring at the tall blond, "unless you plan on being his noble steed."
"Yeah, that was the plan!"
"Gushiken, release me", Tokoyami orders. Ah, his name is Gushiken. He mentally drills the name and face into his mind. His curiosity peaks more for his friend. Why is he so familiar?
"Ko, we don't have all day", his friend says in annoyance.
"Tosh, shouldn't you report Mr. Aizen? Next thing you know he will be touching your no-no spot." Aizawa's eyebrow twitches. His name isn't difficult to remember. Also, no-no spot? What his he, five?
"No-no spot?" Tosh asks with a skeptical brow.
"You know…" Gushiken drawls. His eyes pointing downward. Tosh, without batting an eyelash, understands the gesture.
"Tokoyami, for future reference, Kosuke has a dirty mind." Okay, Blondie's full name is Kosuke Gushiken. Got it. He looks like the type to cause trouble.
"I do not!" he objects with a heavy blush.
"Boys", Aizawa cuts in, "you do know as a teacher I don't allow lateness to my students, especially those in my class."
"I don't mind carrying Toko! We're getting married after graduation."
"Gushiken!" Tokoyami yells, embarrassment is evident in his sudden high pitch tone.
"Maybe I should've kept that shut…"
Aizawa ignites his quirk. His hair flaring and his eyes brighten in activation. "Release my student. Now."
Gushiken merely shrugs and does as he is told. "Alright, alright. Geez, don't get your panties in a twist, Mr. Gorgon. Hmm… nope, I prefer Mr. Aizen better even though your hairstyle reminds me of Medusa. Wait! Can you turn people to stone? Is that your quirk? That would be so badass!"
What a little shit! With every word coming out of the ecstatic teenager's month, the more Aizawa wish the boy has an off button on a personify universal control.
"Refrain from furthering teasing my teacher", Tokoyami concurs before the conversation turns sour than it already was.
"Anything for you, mon cher." Gushiken gently takes his student's hand and kisses it. Even with the hat on, the Hero Course educator can see his student's eyes amplified and, if he's not mistaken, feathers risen around the cheeks. "Do you want me to hold ono your disguise?
His question snaps Tokoyami out of his daze. "Oh! Yes! I do not want my classmates bombard me with question." Sorry to say, but the avian student is going to get swarmed either way. Aizawa decides to hold his tongue and instead says, "Let's go, Tokoyami." His student makes a quick bow to his friends and follows his teacher.
Back to the General Studies boys, Kosuke longingly stares at the raven's backside hoping a quick glance would motivate him to enjoy his day. Tokoyami doesn't turn around. The blond's shoulders sag. One lookover is all he as for. He hates his class. Maybe he'll imagine the smile until he sees him again at Lunch.
Hitoshi was about to say something, then saw Tokoyami turn slightly. He pokes his friend's arm twice. Kosuke looks up to meet those ruby irises. Tokoyami gives a small smile with a little wave. After, he runs to Mr. Aizawa.
The display wasn't grand, but it gave Kosuke's heart a gleeful leap. Gushiken backflips and yells triumphally. Then, he starts dancing. Hitoshi covers his eyes, pretending the next unfortunate bystander witnessing the overexaggerated butt dancing; and doesn't link their relationship together.
"He's doing his happy dance again", Dark Shadow states through their mind link.
Fumikage smile, wholeheartedly. "I am glad I provided his happiness", he responds.
"Just admit it. You're enjoying the attention."
"Well… I never said I dislike it…"
"Ha!"
Aizawa stops and turns to Tokoyami who pauses his walking. "Those students you hung out with… did they try to convince you into doing something outlandish?" Fumikage tilts his head. He doesn't understand the question.
"They have not, Mr. Aizawa. Rebellious as they appear, they do not appear to be the type to coerce their peers", he speaks with honesty.
Aizawa nods. "If they try to get you to do anything, you're uncomfortable with, say no, walk away, and report them to a teacher or the principal." Why? Gushiken would not dream of getting or convincing him to get into any trouble. Shinso…well… Shinso is the voice of reason between the pair. He watches Mr. Aizawa walking away. The raven takes a step forward but pauses mid-step. He looks out the giant windows and beyond the horizon.
Is someone spying on him? Is Obsidian watching him? No, can't be. What is that feeling? It feels like the same sensation as the day before he was kidnap.
"Tokoyami", Aizawa's stern voice is like a far-off echo, far off his earshot. Someone is watching him; someone is curious; someone his touching his shoulder. Fumikage blinks out of his trance and looks at his teacher whose eyes hold a questionable stare. "We don't have all day."
Fumikage slowly nods. Eraserhead moves ahead. He tails along before s eyes land on a buzzing dragonfly. They hold their stare until the avian teenager runs to get to his class.
~MHA~
Meanwhile, our two protagonists remain where they're at: one dancing his silly dance, the other facepalms the whole ordeals.
"…and to this day, Kosuke Gushiken dance his heart out until he's dead", Hitoshi drawls.
"Don't be jealous, Tosh", Kosuke says, stopping his dance, "you will dance, too, once your true love smiles and waves."
"The day I fall in love will be the day I will shave my head and wear black eyeliner…"
"Never say never, man. Never say never~"
Hitoshi rolls his eyes. "Whatever." He watches his best friend puts on Tokoyami's sunhat and wraps the scarf like a celebrity. "By the way… why did you stare off the distance?"
The magical boy blinks twice and two more times for good measure. "I didn't stare off at the distance. We were talking with Mr. Aizen a moment ago."
"First off, his name's Aizawa. Secondly, I meant before we met Aizawa."
"Oh… you meant that… eh, it's nothing", Kosuke nonchalantly replies with a shrug and walk away.
"Bullshit", the baggy-eyed teenage boy calls as he chases after the blond, "your eyes changed color for a second. It was a good thing Tokoyami didn't notice otherwise you'd be answering his curiosity."
Kosuke sighs. "Do you want me to admit? Fine. Yes, I sensed an aura for a moment until it disappeared. Nothing too major, I swear. It's probably Obsidian sending his paper dolls to spy on us. I wouldn't count as anything serious."
"I don't know… are you sure shouldn't check the perimeter? Just to be on the safe side."
"As much as I hate our class as you do, my parents are on my back on my hooky times. Apparently, our teacher is a big ass snitch and likes to get on my parents' good side. Besides, it's one spy. "What can go wrong?"
Hitoshi watches Kosuke leave. "Nothing good comes after saying that phrase."
~MHA~
A dragonfly flies beyond the campus, beyond the paparazzi, and throughout the urban jungle avoiding birds and wind currents until it approaches a radio station. Its signal tower flashes on and off. A stranger sits beside it admires a photograph of a young woman with long, ebony hair and bright hazel eyes. Three gray geckos taking a nap on their master's lap. The dragonfly flies toward the mysterious person; it lands on their head. The person – still in a daze – hardly feels the landing.
"Finally, you return", their tone is impatient inside their husky feminine voice. "What did you see?" the insect crystalize emerald eyes brighten along with its master's blazing green inferno. "I see… Lady Cerise's new host is a UA student. Why am I not surprised? He looks like easy prey. His awareness is sharp, I'll give him that, and if he's there then his protector isn't far."
"UA is a famous hero school because over buff prohero, All Might, graduated there and other top heroes. Security is going to be tight as a pair of petite skinny jeans. Eh, I've had broken into tighter security. Should be simple. I'll kill Arcadia, harvest birb boy's soul, and be done by lunch." The dragonfly flies off its head and sinks into the candidate's myriad pigmented swarm of its brethren.
"Don't worry, Molly. We'll get the life we deserve. I'll fight with everything I got to the very end.
"This is my time."
End of Chapter 5