For the Love of Life

by the reformist

The fourth and final part of Secter and Tatsumaki. With the Supremacy gone, Secter and his friends try to heal and move on all while keeping the peace on a troubled Earth. Follow the group as they enjoy fun and quiet times, support one another, develop their relationships, and face problems both personal and public. As everyone grows closer together, a new threat lurks beyond...

19. Chapter 19

The place was indeed massive, rivaling Sycamore's old hotel in number of stories. Golden curls unfurled down the corners of the building like gusts of wind made solid metal. Emblazoned underneath every layer of windows was an intricate decoration design, stenciled onto the creamy white walls and casting tiny shadows underneath. Fubuki marveled at the building for what must've been the third time before heading up to the circular doorway that led into the lobby.

Red carpet adorned the floor, seemingly the only correct choice for a room so grand. Orange light shone down from an ornate chandelier, and a couple of staircases snaked down past the receptionists's desk to welcome guests up to the second floor and elevators above.

Fubuki approached the front desk, which was manned by a bored-looking twenty-something woman in a dark suit. She almost stood upright when she spotted Fubuki standing there, grabbing the side of her chair as she got up.

"Oh!" said the woman. "Miss Fubuki! How can I help you?"

"Here to see Koros actually," said Fubuki.

The receptionist eyed the flying bowls of deliciousness.

"Right, right!" she said. "For the daily visit you guys do. So nice that you're all so supportive of each other."

"We try our best," said Fubuki. "The medics still checking on him?"

"He should be alone now," said the receptionist. "But they check with him every day! I hear he's a feisty one, likes to do stuff himself."

"That sounds like him," said Fubuki, smiling. "Thanks for your help."

She headed up the stairs, got into an elevator, and after the press of a button, rode it all the way to the top. It was odd doing this again, to be visiting Koros in the penthouse of a hotel while Sycamore had been banned from a different one. From what she had heard, the owner of that place had relented and was asking for Sycamore to hear his apology. She hadn't confirmed that yet, but it wasn't exactly high on her to do list, to deal with that asshole.

The doors opened to lead out into a luxurious hallway, just as golden as the decorations outside. Fubuki walked down the hall and found Koros's door. Right beneath the handle was a keypad, which Fubuki punched a number into. Soon after, the door popped open and Fubuki pushed her way in.

"Well well well," said Koros. "If it isn't the glorious Fubuki herself."

He was lying flat on his bed, the same position as Saitama but on a platform twice the size. Light gold covers blanketed his body, which no doubt was just as mummified and scarred up as the day before. A cluster of bandages, glowing yellow syringes, and empty water bottles sat atop his bedside table, which in turn stood in front of a golden wall. Everything here was gold, sheets, wallpaper, the trimmings on the television, the handles on the drawers to the closet… Golden, golden, golden. Koros stuck out like a half-drunk, messy bruise against the rest of the luxurious background.

"Hello Koros," said Fubuki. "Brought you something."

She drifted a single bowl down onto the bed, as putting it onto the bedside table would no doubt lead to an avalanche of junk. Koros stalked the bowl with his eyes, his mouth watering.

"Ahhh that smells good," said Koros. "Thanks."

"Feeling any better?"

Koros levitated the bowl with his powers, the idea of stretching down to get it a far cry from what he could actually do at the moment. When the bowl fell into his hands, warm and swimming with tasty morsels, Koros tore the lid open and tipped the lid towards his mouth, slurping it down. Flecks of tomato soup fell down onto his sheets, and Fubuki noticed that even prior to Koros's messy eating, there were tiny spots of crimson on the sheets.

"Making a bit of a mess there," said Fubuki.

"No worse than me constantly bleeding through onto the sheets," said Koros between mouthfuls of soup. "And I'm sore as fuck, can barely move, have to get checked up by docs ever so often that have no fucking clue what they're doing."

"They don't know what they're doing?"

"They think that since I look like a human and talk like one, I must be operated on like one. I tell em these bandages and syringes are all I need unless I have serious heart or brain damage, which as far as I know, I don't."

"Well…that's good at least."

"Gonna take me a while to recover from this one. This is the most fucked up I've been in a while. Not to mention the constant beatings I've taken over the years…feels like my recoveries have gotten slower and slower, more and more painful."

"Ideally this will be the last one you have to make. No more fighting from here on out."

"Yeah," muttered Koros. "Ideally."

"Koros…" said Fubuki. She laid the last two bowls on top of the dresser next to the television. "You alright?"

"Same shit as usual. Worry about what the hell I'll do next, if I can adjust. You know me, all the shit I've caused."

"Your heart was in the right place for the most part," said Fubuki. "I don't think you would have that hard a time adjusting. This world is pretty strange as is, but it's a good home."

"Heh," said Koros, tilting his head back, away from his meal. Red dripped from his lips and onto his chin. "Strange world for a strange man."

"I think you're just a bit too afraid," said Fubuki. "People already like you, I like you, you just think you've already pushed everyone away."

"Is that it huh."

"Sure sounds like it."

Koros took in a deep breath. The air scratched at his throat, forcing him to cough. He sputtered, convulsing in pain as his agony shot through his body. Eyes bulging, he reached out to stop Fubuki from getting any closer as she neared him.

He groaned as the pain started to subside. Fubuki stood close to the edge of his bed, her shoulders high with the peaks of worry.

"I'm alright," said Koros. "Just really…really fucking sore."

"You worry me, you know that? You act like you just don't care about your well-being."

"Eh," said Koros. "If I die, who's gonna protect you fools?"

Fubuki managed a weak smile.

"That's true," said Fubuki. "Just keep your chin up, you'll get better and you'll be able to do all kinds of fun stuff with us. Vacation, Sis's and Secter's wedding…"

"Heh," said Koros, grinning. His teeth were stained red from the soup and possibly from other red sources. "Oh I can't wait, I've got stuff planned for that…"

"No strippers," said Fubuki, her voice like a brick wall slamming into Koros's soul.

"What," said Koros.

"I have an idea of the kind of person you are and what you'd try. Don't surprise Secter with strippers at his bachelor party."

"Whaaaaaaaaat?" asked Koros, trying not to laugh. "Me? Neveeeeeeeer."

Fubuki raised an eyebrow. She crossed her arms.

"Ah alright alright," said Koros. "I have no idea how the fuck you guessed it, but I was toying with the idea…" He stopped short when he noticed Fubuki's glare. "Nothing crazy though! Just one to surprise him and get him all flustered, then she'd leave."

"You like making your friends uncomfortable huh."

"Ah it's what friends do."

"Don't do that."

"Consider myself successfully talked out of it. Besides, you're not worried about Secter doing something stupid with her, right?"

"Not at all. He wouldn't touch her should she show up. In fact, I'm pretty sure he'd just pay her to leave while screaming at you."

"Ah, probably. Meanwhile good ol Sycamore would just hide in the corner."

"I think he'd do the same thing as Secter. He's easy to fluster, but he'll stand up for himself if he needs to."

"Maybe," said Koros. He pushed himself back onto the pillow, sinking into its cool fabric. "Ah, can't wait for those two though. They're going to stick together for the rest of their lives, I can tell."

"I'm going to cry at the ceremony, I already know it."

"Fuck, even I might. Haven't had something this nice in so long…"

"You're a part of the family now. Don't guilt yourself into thinking otherwise."

"Sycamore's a lucky man," said Koros as he smiled up at the ceiling. "You've got a damned big heart."

Fubuki felt her tension start to melt away.

"So does he," said Fubuki. "And who knows, if things stay the way they are between us…"

"You know I'll be there for that too," said Koros. "Ah I'll be so proud of the kid."

"Isn't he like, the same age as you?"

"Yeah but he's just a kid."

"Honestly I see you as more of the kid in the group, you just don't realize it."

"Aah fuck off."

Fubuki just shook her head.

"How are Aya and Himiko though?" asked Koros. "I got a little bit from the news, but not much else."

"Rough," said Fubuki. "Aya will be fine, and I'm proud of her for spending so much time with Himiko, even offered to help pay for therapy though I know she's broke. I offered Himiko the same thing, even members of my old group did, though of course she's hesitant to agree."

"Kind of you," said Koros. "Agh I should get back in touch with Aya maybe. She's a nice girl."

"If you want…" said Fubuki. "Didn't know how close you two were."

"Not too close," said Koros. "Maybe I'm just feeling guilty."

"Well you should focus on getting better first," said Fubuki. "You're still in terrible shape."

"That I am. Will continue to fuckin lay here."

"You…you don't blame yourself for anything that happened, right?"

"No. Do wish that I did better, but I suppose it could've been a hell of a lot worse."

"You did the best you could," said Fubuki. "Even gave sis the chance to end that horrible monster of a man."

"Wasn't really my initial plan," said Koros. He grinned. "But yeah, it was pretty cool."

"I just hope she doesn't get too caught up in the whole absorption thing. Genos mentioned Blue was still around…"

"God only knows what he's doing," said Koros. "Worries me, even if he helped us out."

"Debating on talking to him. Sycamore would hate it…but it just worries me to leave him unchecked."

"I don't like it either," said Koros. "Take Secter with you or something, someone who can walk straight."

"I'll think about it." Fubuki began to turn from the bed, levitating the remaining two bowls again. "But I guess I need to be off now, going to see Bang and Garou."

"Tell em I said hi," said Koros. "And thanks again, for the food…and you guys chipping in for this place."

"The owner gave most," said Fubuki. "No big deal."

"Even still. I'll see you around Fubuki. Thanks for the welcome."

"You deserve it."

Koros relaxed further into his bed, letting his soup burn away at the bandages on his chest.

. . .

Garou worried Fubuki. He sat opposite Bang while Fubuki stood behind him. Bang lay on a plushy cot in the backroom of the dojo, snoring soft enough for Fubuki to barely hear him. Like Koros, Saitama, and Sycamore, his chest was adorned with bandages, though his surroundings were more serene and peaceful. A single pot of tea hissed on a stove nearby and the sun shone through cherry tree patterns that snaked through the paper-thin doors near the back of the wall. No one else was in the dojo at this time, lessons put on an indefinite hold.

"Charanko's been helping, right?" asked Fubuki. "He said he would."

Garou scoffed. "Hardly."

"Bang looks a little better…"

This was only somewhat true. Bang's face resembled a slightly pinked lychee, pale all over with spots of life slowly creeping back in, but his arms looked thinner than before, the muscle already weakening from a week of being bedridden. Fubuki felt terrible for him, and wished that she could do more to help, but she had already been preoccupied with helping Sycamore. The bowl of stew she brought seemed a meagre contribution.

"Thanks for the meal by the way," said Garou. "Can barely get the old man to eat, but I'll sure as hell take some."

Garou pulled the bowl of soup closer to him from where it sat on the green tiled floor. Bags hung under his eyes as he stared over at Bang. He sighed and shifted into a cross-legged sitting position. To Fubuki, he looked like he had aged five years within a week.

"Oh absolutely no problem," said Fubuki. "Though Garou…it looks like you need some rest yourself."

"Mmm," said Garou. He popped the top off of the container, letting the savory aroma swirl into the air.

"I'm sorry I haven't been able to do more, but-"

"It's fine," said Garou. "Not much else we can do but wait."

"Everyone playing doctor nowadays," said Fubuki. A slight frown tugged at the corners of her lips. "But it'll get better."

"Koros, Saitama, Sycamore, Secter, Tatsumaki," said Garou. "They'll recover. They're young and strong. Bang…he can't take stuff like this."

"He's stronger than you think."

"I know exactly how tough he is. And don't get me wrong, he's strong, but…even before this, he was showing his age."

"He'll pull through…"

"Keep telling yourself that."

Fubuki felt like stomping her foot behind Garou in frustration.

"You can't give up so easily," said Fubuki, anger seeping into her tone. "Just…just keep at it, things will get better."

"Tired of this," muttered Garou. He kept his eyes trained on Bang, watching the old man's chest rise and fall against the outline of the doors beyond. "Just like always, sitting around and not being able to do anything. Even if I absorbed a Soulless, I could still do nothing."

"It…" said Fubuki. She sighed. "It's hard, trust me. I felt the same way any time Secter or Sycamore were in trouble. We can only help in such limited ways, and I know that's frustrated you for a while…"

"As soon as Koros is better," said Garou. "I'm going to push him to actually train me. And I'll absorb Blue."

Fubuki's heart was stabbed by a dozen tiny spears of ice. She twitched, Garou's words having stopped time for her for a moment. Everything seemed to rush back into real time after a second, Fubuki shaking her head at the insane thought of Garou actually going through with his plan.

"You…" said Fubuki. "Look, for one, that could be a while, and for two, I don't think Koros wants that for you. I don't think anyone does."

"I'm starting to not care," said Garou. "I care about what I want for me. I know I'm kind of the black sheep in this…group we have, and Koros kind of is too. So I'm going with him, and I'm going for what I want. And what I want is to be able to fight if any more of those bastards show up."

"But…the process could kill you, easily. I just don't think there's much reason to take that risk-"

"The reason is right in front of you!" shouted Garou. He whipped around at Fubuki, his eyes blazing. Garou extended an arm out towards Bang, gesturing at his weakening body. "And at Secter's house, and yours! The more people we have who can and will fight, the better."

"And how do you know Blue will agree, huh?" asked Fubuki. She crossed her arms like a stern parent would do to signal their child their disapproval, but deep down, she understood Garou's pain. Part of her wished she could fight too, side by side with Sycamore instead of sitting around somewhere hoping he would come back ok. "And how do you know that Blue won't decide to help us?"

"People want him in jail," said Garou. "So even if he does…"

"They wanted you in jail too."

"I didn't kill anyone!"

"You came close."

Garou clenched his teeth together. He tore his body back around to a sitting position, stung by Fubuki's words. She was right, but it didn't make it any less annoying.

"Still," muttered Garou. "I've decided, it's what I want. And yeah, I'll have to find out if Blue would be ok with it, but I've seen the guy, he looks lost and hopeless. He'd probably be fine with the idea…"

The color drained from Fubuki's face. Did Garou know what he was saying?

"Garou…" said Fubuki. "You do know what you're implying, right?"

"Well I'm just saying!" said Garou. "If he wants to go, then he might as well pass that power on…I'm not saying I'll force him!"

"I…I don't want to talk about this right now," said Fubuki. "Garou, I really think you should just reconsider all this. If you want to train, then fine, but the whole absorption process…it sounds really dangerous."

"That's fine," said Garou. "I've been through plenty of dangerous shit myself. And if I don't do it, who will huh? Your sister?"

"No," said Fubuki. "No. She's occupied with other things. And I guarantee Secter doesn't want that for her, and she probably doesn't want it anymore either."

"She should at least consider it. I know she…plans a life with Secter and all, but-"

"Absolutely not!" said Fubuki. "Garou, you don't know, you don't understand all that she's been through with Secter. If she wants to live out a normal life with him from now on, you should respect that even if you don't know what it entails. You're too…you're too detached from that idea to really understand, to really know how much it would hurt Secter to possibly lose her. And hurt me too. You…you and Koros both, I think you both just need to relax and ingrain yourself into normal life now once everything settles down."

"I don't want to," said Garou. "It's just not how I am."

"Well at least give it some thought," said Fubuki. "I want you to live."

"I'll make it," said Garou. "And…I won't push your sis. Not that she'd listen if she didn't want to train anyways."

Fubuki uncrossed her arms, wishing she could move on to a different topic. Her heart still stung from before, and there was more than enough stress cramping down on her mind. She felt like taking a long nap though it was only a little past noon.

"Don't rush into this," said Fubuki. "Really…just let Bang and Koros and everyone else heal, and then we can talk more."

"Not like I have a choice," said Garou. "Koros can't train me if he's hurt. And I'm just cooped up in here with Bang, watching him die."

"Stop. Saying. That." Fubuki's words slammed into Garou's back like a ton of bricks, each one a massive blow to the spine.

"Sorry," muttered Garou. "Just a little down."

"I know," said Fubuki. "I understand, I've been in your position. Feeling so helpless as a loved one lays broken before you. Just…just know that none of this is your fault, and do the best you can. You have a lot of people behind you to support you, always remember them whenever you need help or to make a tough decision."

"I know. And I appreciate your help. But just know, I don't really plan to take the same path as you or Tatsumaki. I don't want to settle down, I don't see that as the next phase of my life. I'll do everything I can for Bang, and then, I'm going with Koros for absorption."

"Do you even know if he'll want to do that? Maybe he has other plans."

"Does he seem like the type to settle down to you?"

Fubuki sighed. No, he didn't.

"Fine," she said. "If that's really what you want, I won't stop you. But just give it some time, alright? Let's focus on Bang first."

"Yeah."

"I'll be around if you need anything, alright?"

"Ok. Thanks for the stuff."

Fubuki looked down at Garou, still feeling bad for him. She laid a hand on his shoulder, which Garou twitched at.

"Get some rest, ok?" said Fubuki. "You deserve it."

"I uh…I will," said Garou.

Retreating from Garou back towards the main doors, Fubuki gave him one last sad look.

"And keep me updated," said Fubuki. "Keep us all posted, especially Secter. He's got to be really worried."

"I will," said Garou. "Where are you going?"

"I've…I've decided there's one more person I want to talk to."

"I think I know who that is."

"Yeah, Sycamore won't like it but I'll tell him beforehand. I think…Blue needs someone to talk to too."

"Who the hell knows what's going through his head," said Garou. "That guy seems crazy."

"He's just been sitting around isolated," said Fubuki. "No one's really spoken to him since he helped us out against Verdus."

"Well be my guest," said Garou. "Just be careful."

"I'll try."

"One day I might pay him a visit too."

The thought made Fubuki's stomach churn.

. . .

Fubuki walked down the street, anxiety prickling through her chest as she stared down at her phone, awaiting a response. The laxt text still emblazoned on the screen read:

ALRIGHT DROPPED OFF ALL THE FOOD, KIND OF WANT TO TALK TO BLUE THOUGH

She swallowed. Sycamore wouldn't like this.

Lowering her phone towards her hip, Fubuki lurched forward, a sunny and bustling street filled with people in all kinds of colorful clothes ahead. Then her phone buzzed in her hand, and she raised it towards her face, pulling her lip inward. Sure enough, the message was from Sycamore.

WHY?!

Fubuki sighed and texted back.

JUST KIND OF WORRIED WHAT HE'S UP TO, PLUS GAROU TALKED ABOUT ABSORBING HIM AND I KIND OF WANT TO LET HIM KNOW

She bit her tongue as she spotted a tiny Sweetheart is typing… at the bottom of her screen.

YOU'RE GOING ALONE? WHY NOT BRING SECTER WITH YOU?

She shot back:

HE HAS SPASMS AND VOMITING ISSUES SO I DON'T REALLY WANT TO DRAG HIM OUT UNLESS IT'S ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY. BESIDES, BLUE HELPED US AT THE END, WHY WOULD HE TURN AGAINST ME NOW?

Then Sycamore:

I JUST DON'T LIKE IT I GUESS. BUT IF YOU REALLY WANT TO, GO AHEAD LOVE, JUST BE CAREFUL PLEASE

Fubuki smiled.

I WILL. SEE YOU SOON SWEETHEART, LOVE YOU

And finally:

LOVE YOU TOO

I figured you'd understand, thought Fubuki. Promise I'll be right back.

She kept going down the street, winding her way past throngs of people. Some called out to her, but she barely paid them any mind. Eventually she made it to the edge of town, an all too familiar exercise. Out in the surrounding desert sat a single hut, elongated like a trailer and complete with a single dark window on each side. A few people sat camped outside the hut, talking and drinking bottled water. It was a small number compared to most days.

"You going in there?" called one of them to Fubuki.

"I am," said Fubuki, furrowing her brows. She did not want to deal with these people today.

"Well good luck," said another man. "See if you can't talk some sense into him, get him to go to jail where he belongs."

"Seems like he's already done that to himself," said Fubuki.

"Eh he's livin it up in there," said the man. "Goes out whenever he wants, gets food, drinks, whatever. People yell at em but he just ignores us, sometimes even laughs at us. No one wants to get close though, not after what he did."

"I won't deny what he did was wrong," said Fubuki. "But if it weren't for him, Koros would be dead, and Sycamore too. So we have to take the bad with the good."

"People are just afraid," said the man. "Makes sense, no? You guys took out those hitmen, but who's to say more won't come?"

"I don't know," said Fubuki. "But I like to think it's over for a while."

"Maybe," said the man.

"Well, it's not like sitting around and yelling at Blue will help things," said Fubuki. "Now, if you'll excuse me."

To her surprise, the little group went silent as she walked by. Certainly weren't as bad as the protestors, though considering the circumstances, that might've been for their own safety.

Fubuki approached the door to the hut and knocked, her knuckles immediately turning red from hitting the metal.

"Blue?" she asked. "It's me…Fubuki."

Silence.

"Anyone there?" asked Fubuki.

"He should be!" called someone from behind her. "Saw him go in there this morning!"

Fubuki rolled her eyes at the door, an expression for those behind her but without having to deal with the consequences.

The door opened. Fubuki took a step back, shocked to see Blue towering in the doorway. He had to hunch over a bit to fit within his home, no doubt having adjusted his height but not to the point where he could be comfortable.

"Oh!" said Fubuki. "There…there you are."

"What do you want," said Blue. He sounded like he had just woken up from a million years of hibernation, his voice full of gunk and heavy with tiredness.

"Just to talk a little," said Fubuki. "Been a while since anyone checked up on you."

Blue glanced up at the tiny group staring at him from afar. Shaking his head, he gestured for Fubuki to come in, and stepped aside.

Fubuki climbed into the hut and examined the inside. Sure enough, it was like a trailer both inside and out – a single matted couch sat against the wall, a fridge across from it, and beyond that, a tiny bedroom. There was little else aside from some bits of trash on the floor.

"Uh," said Fubuki. "Nice place you have."

"It works for now," said Blue. He slammed the door. "So, what do you want?"

"Just…wanted to know how you were doing," said Fubuki. She approached the couch, gingerly turning around to sit.

Blue twitched his head, still clad head to toe in his armor. Fubuki wondered if he ever took it off.

"Have a headache," said Blue. He leaned against the far wall, his body enshrouded by the shadows of the afternoon sun creeping through the windows. "Otherwise, fine."

"Fine?" Fubuki sank into the couch and shuddered, imagining thousands of invisible germs to be rushing up her sides. Blue raised an eyeline at her.

"As fine as I can be," said Blue. "Verdus and Monarch are gone, so that's good. Living out here with my own stuff. Also good. Have some people follow and yell at me from time to time for killing one annoying person. Kind of funny. Especially when you compare that to all the others I've killed."

Fubuki swallowed.

"Relax," said Blue, as if noticing her sudden anxiety. "I'm not going to hurt anyone."

"I believe you."

"I'm actually waiting to make sure you all recover. That nothing else happens either, though I don't expect anything to."

"You're…protecting us?" asked Fubuki.

"Sure," said Blue. "You all caused me some trouble, but you've prevented Verdus going after me and got rid of Monarch so…you have my thanks."

"You're welcome I guess?"

Blue chuckled.

"Yeah I was part of the problem to begin with anyways," he said.

"Well, it's cleared up now."

"You look tired, Fubuki."

"I feel tired. Lot of stuff left to take care of."

"Things will be alright for you and all your friends. I can tell."

"I like to think so."

Blue pushed himself away from the front of the house to where he was standing with no support. Fubuki watched him, keeping her back away from the end of the couch.

"And what are you going to do once everyone's better?" asked Fubuki.

"Don't know," said Blue. "Might leave. Don't really have anything out there to go to."

"Sis mentioned some stuff about your old life…and how you felt bad…"

"Yeah. Long time ago. Nothing to go back to there now. Sure as hell don't want to see her parents or anything, they didn't like me in the first place. Probably blame me for her…taking her life."

"That's awful."

"Yeah. But to be honest, I deserve more awfulness in my life than I've gotten."

"Well, if you're willing to change, I think most people deserve a second chance…"

"Easy for you to say," said Blue. "You all seem to have gotten terribly lucky in the casualties game."

"I'd like to keep it that way," said Fubuki.

"Same here. But I don't want to stay either."

"Well, that's your decision."

Blue gave a tiny nod.

"Guess I just feel a bit empty," said Blue. "That whole long career of killing for profit, just to end with my shitty employer stabbing me in the back and me finally bringing myself to feel for someone I was supposed to hurt. Whole thing was a load of garbage, so many wasted years…"

"Sounds like it's time to remake yourself, huh?"

"That's a lot easier said than done."

"Trust me," said Fubuki with a smile. "I've seen it done many times."

"Not with people like me, I'm willing to bet."

"Well look…" said Fubuki. "I don't know your past, or what you've done, but I know you at least have kindness in you, and empathy…"

"I shunned that for a bit too long," said Blue. "Can't say all the people I shot deserved it, though a lot of them did."

Fubuki just didn't know. She was sure this man had a long history of killing, seeing death and delivering it. There was no real way for her to judge, for on the one hand, he had killed an awful albeit innocent person the other day, but on the other, if his main targets were Supremacy soldiers, then she couldn't say she blamed him for firing.

"Lot of Supremacy?" she asked, her voice weak.

"Yeah," said Blue. "Lot of other people too."

He slouched down against his wall, the weight of the world having defeated him.

"I don't really want to talk about that anymore," he said. "Like to move on."

"Well," said Fubuki. "You're welcome to stay, though I don't know exactly what you'd find here."

"I'm staying until you're all better. Then we'll see. I really don't care if those idiots outside want me locked up or not, God knows many of you heroes have killed people yourselves."

"But not on purpose!" said Fubuki. Upon seeing Blue's look, she shrank back a bit. After a moment of him staring at her, Fubuki realized it wasn't hostility in his eyes, but rather exhaustion. A tired old soul, done with fighting. It was like Koros, but without that crazed spirit that popped up from time to time. She pushed herself forwards.

"Yeah," said Blue. "Sure."

"Well it's true," said Fubuki.

She still wasn't sure what to make of Blue. Without him, her sweetheart would be dead, but there was still that remorseless killer vibe to him, someone who'd shoot without hesitation even if it wasn't really the right thing to do.

"You look nervous," said Blue.

"I am, a bit," said Fubuki. "You could probably guess why."

Blue chuckled.

"Figures," he said. "Well, I don't really have much to say, if you're just here to ask what I'll do next, even I don't know. I'll…be around for a while."

"Alright," said Fubuki. "Just don't…don't do anything bad."

"I'm keeping my head down."

"You could come to a get-together sometime, maybe? Get to know some people, let them get to know you?"

"That sounds like a fucking terrible idea. Are you crazy?"

"Why not?" asked Fubuki.

"People want me dead, or in jail," said Blue. "And I've shot at least two of the three Soulless and Volunteers you know."

"Yes…" said Fubuki. "But people wanted Sycamore in jail for a while too. And…I think Sycamore and Koros will forgive you for shooting them, considering that you also saved them too. Same with Secter."

"This sounds like the world's most awkward get-together. Are you people always like this?"

"We're big on talking about things."

"I can see that," said Blue. He propelled himself away from the wall and strode over to his little fridge, reaching down to open it. Glancing back at Fubuki, his eyes gleaming from within the darkness of his helmet, he continued: "You want anything?"

"No thanks," said Fubuki. "Even still though, you should consider it. I know just about everyone wants to talk to you."

"Yeah, because they're afraid," said Blue. "Makes sense, honestly." He reached into the fridge, and to Fubuki's surprise, pulled out a clear container of bile. Blue retreated from the fridge and closed the door behind him, turning to meet Fubuki's gaze. He smiled.

"Looks like you didn't get all of Verdus's stuff in time," said Blue. "Kept a few things for myself aside from my gun."

"Like what?"

"Bit of drink, and a pistol, and a knife. That's it."

"What…what for?"

"In case someone out there holds a grudge for me. The drinks are extra."

"Right…" said Fubuki. "Well, hope that's not the case."

"Ah don't pretend. You don't care. It's best off I just leave and get out of your life and you know it."

Fubuki went silent. Deep down, part of her agreed. Not having to deal with a new public outcry of talking with Blue would be easy, and especially if it was close to her sister's wedding… She could only imagine the firestorm that she'd make if someone were to try and ruin that.

"See?" asked Blue. "Be smart about this. I know you probably all want to see what makes me tick or whatever, but let's just stay distant eh? We helped each other out, but there's no more than that."

Fubuki sighed. Though he had a point, that didn't mean she had to like it.

"If that's what you want," said Fubuki. "Honestly…for as annoying the protestors might be, I still don't feel it's worth it to just cave in to them. So I'm keeping my hand outstretched…I think we all are…if you ever want to take it."

"I'll keep it in mind," said Blue. "No promises."

"It might be nice, you never know. Seems like you wanted a normal life once…"

"Yeah," muttered Blue. "Was a long time ago."

"Never too late," said Fubuki. "Especially if you don't age."

"Feels like I have." Blue sighed, popping the top off of his drink. "That ever worry you?"

"Huh?" asked Fubuki, taken aback by the question.

"You and Sycamore, Tatsumaki and Secter, Koros and…whoever. Outliving you."

"I…hadn't thought of it much, but I'm sure it worries sis…"

"I worried about it too, back when I lived with her," said Blue. "Was something we had to live with."

"I'll worry about that when the time comes," said Fubuki. "If Sycamore and I are still together at that age. Which…wouldn't surprise me if we were."

"Optimistic," said Blue. He took a slight sip of his drink, curling his lips at the bitter thickness of the bile. "But sweet."

"What was her name?"

Blue coughed, sputtering out his bile the second it entered his mouth.

"What?" he asked. "What did you say?"

"Your fiancée's name," said Fubuki. "If you don't mind me asking."

"Uh…" he said. "Grace."

"A nice name," said Fubuki. She tucked her hands together over her lap.

"Yeah," said Blue. "Uh, look, I think you should go. I could use a nap myself."

"Oh! Uh, alright. I'll get out of your way."

"Yeah. Thanks for the talk."

"No problem. And remember, offer is still on the table."

"I'll sleep on it."

Fubuki rose from her seat as Blue began to sit down. She watched him as she backed away from the couch. Blue only kept himself seated, staring down into his drink with sad, distant eyes.

"Get some rest Blue," said Fubuki. "Things will be ok."

"Mmm."

. . .

Secter marveled at the mural of bronze, stretching out for thirty yards in both directions. It was beautiful, everything he had hoped for. Pain and suffering were encapsulated at one end, with the slow yet sure process of changing and healing pulled all the way to the other. On one end were the faces of the strugglers, him, Koros, and Sycamore, all chiseled in shining metal and worn with the scars of battle, pale cracks in the cheeks and foreheads. Alongside them were the survivors of the camp, Tatsumaki, Fubuki, Metal Bat, Saitama, Genos, Bang, King, and Garou. They all looked as worn and weary as he did, each one with their eyes pointed to the heavens, as if searching for an answer from above, or perhaps a way out of a festering hellhole. Right beneath the faces, towards the base of the wall, were a series of dark hands reaching up, doing their best to grasp at the expressions but were just out of reach. And to the side of Tatsumaki and the rest were those who had fallen in the fight, a lumbering metal behemoth, a twitchy looking Soulless with two gashes in his back, a young man with a bicycle, a young woman in a suit, and a man in a flowing robe. They all stood with their backs turned to the onlookers of the memorial, as if walking away for a last goodbye. Many others stood with them, including a Soulless Secter only knew once by name in a place most foul.

Secter kept scanning to the right, which revealed a burning camp and the hands at the bottoms writhing and withering away in the flames, the bodies of who they were attached to hidden from view. A single one of the arms managed to stretch away from the fire, snaking away like a dying animal while a tiny ship, barely a divot on the memorial, flew after it towards the right.

Further beyond saw cities rebuilding, Secter, Tatsumaki, the rest of the group along with many other heroes such as Rikuto and Mei looking forward, mournful yet somehow with their eyes brimming with hope at the same time. A single graveyard sat underneath them, the names of the fallen clearly visible on each tiny stone even as they stretched back into the metal.

Closer to the end of the mural, the cities were complete. There were crowds of people, all cheering and happy. Secter and the others sat together as a group, all talking and beaming as if everything was going great. Koros had returned, looking tired but managing a smile nonetheless. Far in the background, so distant Secter had to squint to see it, sat a single burning ship, crumbling apart within the remnants of a building, an afterthought to the foreground. It hardly mattered to what was happening now, the progress being made, the lives being rebuilt. Everyone was happy at the end of the memorial, everyone remembered what had happened but didn't let it consume them. That was all that mattered.

Secter sniffed, wiping away the tears brimming at the bottoms of his eyes. Someone tugged at his sleeve and he looked down to see Tatsumaki smiling up at him, two dark circles under her eyelids.

"It's amazing, isn't it?" asked Secter. "Rikuto and Mei just…wow. I knew it was going to be good with them in charge but they exceeded expectations. It's just…I love it."

"It's great," said Tatsumaki. "Sends such a good message while not giving any attention to those who hurt everyone."

"Ah I'm tearing up a bit."

Tatsumaki floated herself off the ground, wincing a bit as her leg, now free of a cast, still radiated with pain. She leaned over and kissed Secter on the cheek once she made it to his height.

"It captures everything so perfectly," said Tatsumaki, her lips close to his skin. "Everything we've gone through, that everyone else has gone through…it's perfect."

Secter leaned into Tatsumaki, swaying with her in the wind. A few onlookers "awww'd" at the two of them, some even stopping to take pictures. Tatsumaki grumbled, not wanting to break away from her soon-to-be husband but not a fan of the phones either.

"Yeah we've been getting more attention lately huh," said Secter. "Can't imagine all the paparazzi trying to…you know."

"That's why it's a private ceremony," said Tatsumaki. "We've been over this."

"Mmhmm," said Secter. He glanced down at Tatsumaki's leg, hanging down from her black dress. "Your leg alright? Still not supposed to put pressure on it much."

"It's sore," said Tatsumaki. "But otherwise it's fine."

"Good," said Secter, turning back to face the wall.

Tatsumaki managed a devilish little grin, her lips teeming with mischievousness.

"You're just looking forward to me being able to move for certain…activities, aren't you?" she asked.

"Hey, I'm looking forward to a lot of things," said Secter. "But yes, that is one of them."

"Let's get home then," said Tatsumaki. "We've got more stuff to plan out anyways."

"Alright," said Secter. "Remind me to send a letter or something to Rikuto and Mei, probably some gifts as well for the memorial."

"They'd probably refuse the gifts, they wanted to do this," said Tatsumaki. She turned her attention back to the memorial and read it left to right. She was right, it was perfect. "They might ask you to do that speech again though."

"Oh God," said Secter. "That…that can wait I think."

"Yes it can," said Tatsumaki. "We've got too much stuff to plan first."

"Mmhmm," said Secter, his smile widening. "I'm so fucking excited."

Tatsumaki's heart soared, images of her walking down the aisle to a giddy Secter flashing through her head. She couldn't wait for it, the two of them were practically married anyways but something about making it official, for all of those close to her to see, felt almost magical to her. Normally she wasn't about sharing personal stuff with Secter to other people, but it would be all her friends, a declaration of their love to last the rest of their lives.

"I…I am too," said Tatsumaki, her voice dreamy. "Let's go home, Secter, and talk about this huh? I love you."

"I love you too," said Secter, enthralled by Tatsumaki's drunken expression and tone. He reached down and lifted her up, swinging both of her legs over across his body. Tatsumaki's eyes widened in surprise but she grinned at him, wrapping both of her hands behind his neck.

Secter pulled her up and kissed her deep, moving his lips against hers. Tatsumaki kissed him back, pulling his head into hers until she had to strain her arms to keep him moving. There were people taking pictures for sure, but for once, in that moment, Tatsumaki didn't care. Secter was with her, and he was all that mattered.

When they were finished, Secter teleported the two of them home, and they both headed inside to sit at the dinner table. Tatsumaki lifted out a bunch of colorful brochures using her powers, the packets shimmering green as they floated out from the kitchen bar to the table. The two of them went over venues, many of which were far from heavily populated areas, as well as clothing, food, and the like. Tatsumaki made a call to her sister, asking when she and the others would be over and confirming it was the same time they had talked about before. Satisfied, Tatsumaki put her phone away and kept talking with Secter.

"I think we've narrowed it down to three places…" said Secter. "I still kinda like the…forresty, mountain place. What was it called?"

"You're going to need to be more specific," said Tatsumaki. She still sounded as if she were in a dream, planting one hand on her chin and staring at Secter. Secter blushed a little in her gaze, him the pinnacle of her affections. Tatsumaki gave a little sigh, caught up in his adorableness.

"Uh," said Secter. "Riverside Hill or something? Nice little gazebo, got a hotel-like place near a river, obviously, close to the woods and some mountains, looks really nice…"

"I like that place too," said Tatsumaki. "The boat place and the little house are nice too, but I like the view…" She continued to stare at Secter, who laid his arms over the table.

"What?" asked Secter, his cheeks still a thin shade of red. He couldn't help but smile back at her, the love pouring from his eyes coating his heart and turning it to a beating time bomb of affection.

"We're getting married," said Tatsumaki. "Secter, I'm going to be your wife. You're going to be my husband."

Secter was overcome. He chuckled a bit, reflecting on just how far the two of them had come. Since day one, Tatsumaki sending him up to space, then slowly coming to an understanding with him as he helped with her sister. To her shaking with fear as she first found him all cut up. To them first becoming close with one another, overcoming the lab, then his creature, the Commandant…

Becoming intimate for the first time. Turning Sycamore over to the side of reason. All the sweet talks, quiet moments, the cuddling and the sex, becoming more elaborate and heavy as they went on. Reuniting after Silan and kicking him into the dirt. It felt like it had been years since they first met eyes, and their looks back then were a hell of a lot different as to how they looked at one another now. Yet looking at her made all the memories come flowing back, and Secter shivered as Tatsumaki reached out and twirled her fingers around his wrists. He loved her with all of his heart.

"It's finally happening," said Secter. "Feels…feels like we've known each other for years, that we've been waiting to do this for so long…"

"I know that I've said it before," said Tatsumaki. "But I'll never love anyone like I do you, Secter. You're a part of me, I can't imagine life without you and I want to spend the rest of my life with you. You're the one for me, I love you so, so much."

Tears welled up in Secter's eyes. He felt the exact same.

"I love you too, God I love you so much," said Secter. "And I can't wait, I can't wait to be with you the rest of my life, I don't want anyone else, I want to be your husband, I want to support you every step of the way, make every big life decision with you…"

Tatsumaki caressed Secter's arms, staring into his eyes. Every touch was soft, every stroke lengthy and full of adoration.

"So soon," said Tatsumaki. "Maybe even in a month? If we agree to the place, and I find a dress today, and you a tux…"

"Well, there's some other stuff too," said Secter. "But we've got a lot of people helping with the food and transportation and drinks. So…yeah, if everyone can get everything together soon…it could be within a month. I've already been calling some of these places to ask if we can possibly reserve something, and they dropped everything to make room for us."

"I like the hill," said Tatsumaki. "It's romantic."

"I do too," said Secter. He smiled. "I'll give em a call."

"First we need to get ready for everyone to get here."

"Right! They should be here soon."

Secter started to slowly withdraw his arms from Tatsumaki, letting her stroke her fingers all the way down into his palms. One of these days, there'd be a ring on one of them.

Rising from his seat, Secter rushed over to the front door, opened it, and materialized a piece of sheet metal right next to the front steps. He bent over and slid it on top of the stairs, creating a makeshift ramp leading into the house.

"You see them out there?" asked Tatsumaki. "Should be close by now."

Secter looked up and peered out into the streets. Sure enough, he spotted them, the whole main group talking and laughing amongst one another, headed for Tatsumaki and Secter's home.

"Yeah," said Secter. "They're home."

Soon after most of the group were clustered around the dining room, Tatsumaki and Fubuki chatting to one another at the table, while Secter, Koros, and Sycamore sat or stood nearby, Koros leaning against the refrigerator. The rest of the group gathered around the couch, with Secter checking with each of them how they were doing. Nothing but positive remarks, with King, Saitama, and Genos all saying that they were ready whenever for the big day.

Finally arrived Garou and Bang. Garou pushed Bang along, the poor old master sitting in his chair as it wheeled over the ground. Sniffing at the little ramp, Garou drove Bang inside, who outstretched his arms upon seeing everyone.

"Bang!" said Secter, leaving his spot at the table to approach him.

"Hello everyone," said Bang. He grunted as he tilted himself in his seat, hugging Secter as he pulled himself in close. "Here to talk about the big day!"

"Thanks for the ramp," said Garou.

Secter hugged Bang back for a moment before the two of them pulled away.

"No problem," said Secter. "Anything for the first friend I had here."

Ori slunk out from the bedroom hall and darted past the group, causing King to twitch in surprise as the cat slunk by his legs.

"Ah don't mind little Ori King," said Bang. "He's harmless, sweet as can be."

"Let's take a spot over there," said Garou. He pointed to an empty place over by the couch and started to push. Secter grabbed the front of the wheelchair and helped move him there, before finally going back to his original seat.

"Hey kid," said Koros over by the refrigerator.

Garou gave him a slight nod but kept his attention on Bang. He remained standing behind his old master.

The conversations started, with Saitama and Genos talking about how neither of them had worn a suit in what felt like forever, King wondering aloud about how his old S-class money could get him something nice to wear, and Garou and Bang occasionally chiming in with what they planned to do.

"Nice of the kid," said Koros as he stood over by Secter and Sycamore. "Takes care of Bang full time. Still bugs me about training from time to time, but he's a good kid."

"Feel a bit bad for him," said Secter. "Taking on all this responsibility, mostly by himself."

"I drop by with Fubuki from time to time," said Sycamore. "Give em gifts like you and Tatsumaki do, but otherwise he does most of the work."

"He seems to be doing alright though," said Secter. "Worried about him since I know it's not what he wanted, but he seems content enough."

"Don't think he'll be so content when he hears about Blue," said Koros. "Guy's leaving this week, right?"

"Sometime soon yeah," said Secter. "He's kept his distance mostly."

"So I hear," said Koros. "Haven't bothered with him much aside from seeing him on the news. Was barely able to walk but a week and a half ago."

"Everyone's healed up nicely for the most part," said Sycamore. "And the memorial…I saw it yesterday, it's amazing."

"Was better than I expected," said Koros. He slumped further back against the refrigerator, letting its cool exterior ease the sore spots on his back. "All the busts looked damned good, they even got the little scars on the side of my head right. And the arms, and turned people…was a nice touch."

"I liked the end piece," said Secter. "Fitting…for everyone to finally heal, after all we've been through."

"Yes, dear God we need a break," said Sycamore, collapsing down into his seat. "No more worrying please, no more being bedridden with injuries…"

"And no more people getting hurt, no more funerals," said Secter. "Thanks for all of you coming to Mumen's by the way. Koros I know you never met him, but I appreciate you coming out anyways."

"Eh not like I was doing much else," said Koros. "And if you say he was a good guy, then I'm sure as hell going to believe you."

"He was," said Secter. "Poor kid."

Koros glanced back over at Garou.

"But anyways," said Secter. "Guys?" He managed a smile. "The both of you ready?"

"Ha!" said Sycamore, bolting upright in his seat. All of a sudden he was a strike of lightning, flashing out with energy and brightness despite the lingering pain all over his chest. He managed to look taller than both of his companions even though he was seated, and he placed a hand over by his collarbone. "Let me guide your way Secter, suits are my thing."

"I'm counting on you buddy," said Secter, chuckling.

"I'm thinking a loose undershirt," said Koros as he placed a hand on his scruffy chin. "Maybe no tie-"

"You're going to Secter's wedding!" shouted Sycamore. "Of course you're going to wear a tie!"

Sycamore turned to see Fubuki and Tatsumaki staring at him, both smiling. Fubuki was giving him an endearing look, one that screamed "oh I love you."

Sycamore's face turned a dull shade of yellow and he tugged at his collar, smiling back at her.

"Alright alright jeez," said Koros.

"I'll show you both," said Sycamore as he turned back to Secter and Koros. "We're going to find something great for the both of you."

Meanwhile, Fubuki and Tatsumaki went back to talking to one another, in a low voice.

"Sis," said Fubuki. "I…" She was a beacon of happiness, trying so hard to contain the smile that pained the corners of her mouth. "I'm so excited, today's finally the day."

"I've been looking at catalogues and such," said Tatsumaki. She dipped her head to let her curls fall down in front of her face. It was like a half-attempt to hide her massive smile, one which was in vain as the hair didn't make it past the bottom of her nose. Secter noticed her smile and melted down in his seat, brimming with love for her.

"Got a list of places?" asked Fubuki.

"Yep," said Tatsumaki. "Some private fittings. I…" Tatsumaki shook her head, still smiling. "I didn't think this would ever happen not too long ago."

"Oh but look at you now," said Fubuki. She was almost swooning in her seat, swept up in the dream that would be her sister's wedding. Fubuki wanted to hug her sister, squeeze the breath out of her, but she was saving that for when Tatsumaki finally picked the right dress. "Going shopping for your dress…aah I'm going to bawl when I see you in those dresses sis, I'm going to bawl."

Tatsumaki chuckled. "Yeah, it really feels special."

Fubuki lowered her voice and leaned in towards her sister.

"Have you picked out a ring for him yet?" she asked.

"Did you think I wouldn't by now?" asked Tatsumaki, grinning. "I have a few top picks, I'll let you see them when we get back."

"Oooh!" said Fubuki, still keeping her voice quiet. "And has he mentioned anything for you?"

"He's left his hints as he always does. I don't know if he's picked out one yet, but whatever it is…I'm sure it'll look amazing."

"Me too," said Fubuki. "Secter's always been thoughtful with gifts. And this…" Fubuki choked up, her voice filling with an invisible mass as she started to cry. "This is…such a special one…"

"Oh sis," said Tatsumaki, chuckling but starting to tear up at the same time. "Calm down! We haven't even made it to the store yet haha…" She leaned over and hugged her sister, who pulled her in to a tight embrace.

"Look at her, already falling apart," said Koros as he gestured to Fubuki. "Goddamned adorable."

"If Koros is saying that, then you know it's something," said Sycamore.

Secter planted his chin in his hands, glancing over at the two sisters. God, he loved them both.

"Can't wait to see what you pick," said Secter. "This is my Tatsu we're talking about, she'd look great in anything."

"Hey, you have to wait to see it," said Tatsumaki. "It's going to be a surprise."

"I know, I know," said Secter.

"Pick out something good for my man," said Tatsumaki. "Sycamore's going to help, huh?"

"You know it," said Sycamore. He grinned and closed his eyes as he jabbed a thumb at his chest, cheeky as can be.

"I can't thank you enough for your help with organizing everything," said Tatsumaki. "You too sis. I wouldn't know the first thing about catering."

"I had a little experience with feeding my group," said Fubuki. She managed a wink through teary eyes, her eyelids nearly gluing themselves together after she closed one.

"And I held some events way back in the day for morale stuff," said Sycamore. "Absolutely no problem, especially for you two."

"See this is why you're best man," said Secter, stretching an arm behind Sycamore's back and pulling him into his side. Sycamore's eyes widened, surprised. He chuckled as he Secter shook him slightly.

"You two ready to go?" asked Koros. "Ain't got all day."

"Hang around for a bit," said Fubuki. "We'll all discuss a bit more planning, then we go out for shopping."

"Fine," said Koros. "All of you, hurry your asses up, Secter's gotta get his suit and Tats needs her dress asap!"

Secter just shook his head.

The rest of the conversations went on, with most of them centering around excitement over what was to come or getting new clothes. Everything seemed to be going well, and even Garou started to talk to Bang about getting suits for the both of them. Bang insisted on paying, to which Garou had to comply due to lack of funds.

Eventually, Secter, Sycamore, and Koros were off to go shop, and soon after, Fubuki and Tatsumaki left as well. The rest of the group stuck around, wondering just what Secter and Tatsumaki would pick out.