Midori the Phoenix
Chapter 35: HEA 2
~V-Island: Three Years Later~
"I was on top of the world…" The former villain spoke. His deep baritone voice was paired with intense black eyes and a thick muscular body, which made him intimidating even to the others who gathered around to hear his story. "I had taken down a top hero, he was crushed under my boot, and I could feel the world begin to bow at my feet as I flexed my power…" '
He inhaled deeply, as if re-savoring that moment.
"...but then it happened. I was struck from behind… a flea bite… but when I turned around to see who dare disrupt my moment of triumph… I lost all consciousness. When I woke up, I was quirkless. I was stripped of my power, stripped of my person, and purpose… and then shipped off to this god forsaken place." He growled and looked down at his hands with anger and frustration. "How can you stand feeling powerless like this?"
"By reminding myself that I'm not." Izumi told him, sitting upright and tall in her seat, hands folded over her notebook that sat in her lap. She surveyed the fresh crop of villains that had joined her therapy group. "If any of you feel powerless it's because you're afraid of change. All of us grew up in a society where having a quirk is the norm. Not possessing the same thing as the majority makes you feel isolated, alone, and thus you feel a sense of powerlessness. I'm telling you, and everyone else here that none of you have to feel that way. Quirkless IS the norm here, and you're not alone."
"Easy for you to say…" the villain sneered at her. "You gave up your quirk willingly. Mine was TAKEN from me."
"I may have chosen to be quirkless, but I can still relate to how you're feeling." she adjusted herself by crossing her legs and lifting up her notebook to write down a few things before making eye contact with him. "Unlike most I wasn't born with a quirk, mine was given to me by All for One. Before I met him I wanted a quirk so badly that I was willing to do anything for it. I told everyone including myself that it was because I wanted to be a hero, and help others. This was partially true, but the real reason I wanted a quirk was so that I wouldn't feel helpless anymore. I didn't want to be a victim in a world of heroes. I didn't want to be isolated and different than the others around me. I just wanted to blend in, be a part of the norm, have friends who believed in me and what I could do."
She paused, offering a warm and understanding smile to the intently listening group.
"So, trust me… I know what it's like Jasper. Please believe me when I say that you don't have to feel that way here." She lay a hand on her heart and closed her eyes. "We will help you find your true strength, but first you just have to let us in."
Jasper's intense eyes lowered and his ham sized fists clenched together. He seemed to be in deep contemplation with himself, but Izumi gave him the time he needed to come up with his own answer.
"Okay." He inhaled deep and pressed his hands to his forehead. "Thanks."
"Mmmm you're welcome." The timer on the stand next to her went off and Izumi glanced up at the big clock. "Well that's our time for this week everyone. For those of you who didn't get the chance to speak, and feel they need to get something off their chest please join in next week or meet with my secretary to schedule an earlier appointment." She closed her notebook and stood up as everyone gathered their belongings and started to gather to her to say their goodbyes.
Izumi shook their hands one by one until the very last patient walked out of the meeting room. Once gone she set her notebook down next to her timer and proceeded to put the chairs and such to rights.
She heard the sharp click-clack of heels and turned to smile at her surprisingly reliable secretary.
"Izumi, dear, you're wanted up at the main building with Katsuki and Shoto. Apparently there's gonna be another new arrival appearing tonight and they want you there to help lay down the law." Magne told her, tapping a stylus on her ipad. The woman looked positively radiant, post surgery, and was more confident in her skin now that she'd regained her identity. She still had height and bulk, but it was radiantly distributed much like an amazon queen. With some help from a stylist her hair had been vamped up and was now more lucious and bouncy, and gave her that added umph of femininity.
"Thanks for the heads up… did you call Dante about our five o'clock appointment tomorrow?" Not that she needed to ask. Surprisingly Magne had a knack for secretarial work. She was self sufficient, organized, timely, and could square up against the more harsh-tongued criminals should they get cross.
"Yes, but the man refuses to come no matter how much I nag him. You may want to swing by the windmills and make sure he doesn't hang himself from the rafters. He sounded very sour over the phone."
"Did he really sound suicidal?" Izumi asked, genuinely concerned.
"No, I was emphasizing… he's too big a coward to think of such things… but I would still go and see him." Magne pat her shoulder. "He's very out of sorts with his position."
"Alright, I'll swing by on my way to the office." She set the last of the chairs in place, then grabbed her own belongings. "Forward all office calls to my cell, and take the rest of the day off, Magne. You've that big date tonight, don't you? Go primp yourself."
"Ah! You're a gem!" Magne squeaked and leaned in to air kiss her cheeks. "I'll see you tomorrow then. Don't work too hard, doll face! Remember you've got a family at home waiting for you!"
"Mmmm…" Izumi smiled as she watched Magne bounce out of the room. She looked down at her cell phone lock screen, an image of her husband and kids filling the screen. "Don't I know it."
~V-Island: Anti-hero Rights and Rehabilitation center~
"Shut up, Icy Hot! Nobody asked you!"
"Jeez, you're crude." Toga pouted at Bakugou as he and Todoroki butt heads. "You've been married for three months and you still won't call him by his first name?"
"I'll call my fucking husband whatever the fuck I want, crazy bitch."
"Hey! I've been pronounced legally sane by our very own psychiatrist so you can't call me that anymore either!" She stuck her tongue out at Bakugo.
"Just because that damn rabbit got herself a degree doesn't mean shit to me. Everyone on this fucking island is psychotic." He twisted off the cap of his water bottle and gulped it down.
"Doooes that include you?" Toga giggled and made a small squee of delight as Izumi came off the elevator looking flushed and exerted. "Hey Queeny, we've been expecting you!"
"Yeah, sorry i'm late, I had to run interference with a potential suicide case. The majority of the new arrivals are actually doing pretty well, we're at a 90% success rate, but every once in a while there's a case that just…" she inhaled deep. "Well anyway-" she waved it off. "I handled it, so what's this about a new arrival?"
"We're glad you're here, Izumi." Shoto pat Bakugo on the shoulder before he could shout at her. "Your presence was requested for this next arrival. He's… a special case. Lemillion, Hawks, and Eraser are escorting him onto the borders."
"More than one escort?" Izumi put a hand on her hip. "Well that's not a good sign. Have they not given him the serum yet?"
"No… he's quirkless alright." Shoto looked to Bakugo who huffed and crossed his arms.
"Well then what's the problem?" Izumi scowled. "Between the three of us we can handle any quirkless villain that-"
"Queeny…" Toga took Izumi's hand and whispered in her ear. Izumi's eyes slowly went wide and she jerked her head up at Katsuki and Shoto.
"No… you gotta be fucking kidding me!" She dropped her books. "Absolutely not! Tell them to reject his rights and turn that ferry right back around! I don't want that man anywhere near this island!"
"That's not how the program works, Izumi, and you know it." Shoto held his hands out trying to keep her calm. "It took him three years to regain his full speech, but he's still paralyzed. He's no longer a threat."
"So long as that man can breathe, and speak he is a threat to me and mine! He's rejected! End of story! That MONSTER can ROT in Tartarus!"
"Alright, we will… but he is insisting that we let him in under the familial visitation rights act." Shoto explained and earned a scoff. "He wants to see you, and Shigaraki if possible."
"Visitation rights, my ass!" Izumi looked to Toga. "Does Tenko know about this?"
"Yes… I called him shortly after I found out. He agrees with you, he doesn't want to see him, and he doesn't think you should either." Toga fidgeted.
"Oh I'll see him… IN HELL!" She cracked her knuckles but Bakugo placed a hand over them.
"Reign your temper in Usagi…" Bakugo warned. "He's coming to see and talk to you. He's put in requests to live here as well, but it's already been decided that he'll remain a prisoner of Tartarus." He took her shoulder now and gave it a squeeze. "...but the program, YOU MADE, allows him one day to visit his kin, and legally that's you."
"God damn it, when I helped create this program I didn't cater it to him!" Izumi strung fingers through her hair and started to pace. Her brain went a million miles a minute, and she had to take long calm breaths to keep herself from lashing out violently.
After a long moment, Izumi calmed, and slowly released her hair from her fingers.
"How long before they arrive?"
"5 hours." Bakugo informed. "Are you gonna allow Lemillion and Eraser to-"
"Yes… under article 5, section 2, heroes are allowed to escort criminals should they prove dangerous even in their quirkless state. I don't care if he is quirkless and paralyzed, I'm not taking any chances with that man." Izumi smoothed her shirt and skirts out and lifted her chin. "If he wants an audience with me… then he'll get one, but on MY terms."
She turned to Toga.
"Inform Tenko, and Touya of his arrival, but they're not to tell anyone else nor are they to interfere. I don't want anyone getting any bad ideas from his presence here."
"Okay." Toga nodded and ran to her desk to make the necessary phone calls. Izumi then turned to Shoto and Katsuki.
"Prep meeting room 5, as well as the adjoining visitor's room. I'm sure the visiting heroes will want to listen in on whatever it is THAT MAN has to say." She adjusts her suit jacket and takes a long deep breath. "God I need a drink."
~Five Hours Later~
All for One took a deep inhale of the sea air as he was rolled off the plank of the Ferry. Hawks stood behind pushing him with Lemillion leading the way down the dock and Eraser picking up the rear just in case.
"It's been so long since I inhaled the scent of fresh air and freedom." He chuckled low. "Lemillion, is this your first time on this island as well?"
"No…" Mirio responded despondently, but turned a small smile back in his direction. "I've visited many friends and former comrades before to make sure they're doing well. Though I imagine this will be your first and ONLY visit to this island."
"Oh now, I wouldn't be so sure. After all, Izumi is my daughter."
"Your adoption was under a pseudonym so that claim is mild at best. Izumi agreed to an audience this one time, but don't expect a second welcoming after everything you've done." Eraser pointed out.
"All that I've done is it? So Izumi's crimes are forgivable, but mine are not? I'm starting to question this little arrangement you've got with her and the league." He taunted, and before Lemillion could reply, Hawks halted the chair and patted All for One on the head.
"Now, now, now, let's all calm down. You…" he pulled All for One back by the top of his head forcing him to look up. "Behave, or we're cancelling this little family reunion and taking straight back to Tartarus… and Lemillion, don't let what he says get to you. He's just trying to bait you."
"Ah, Hawks, quite the wit." All for One shifted his head a little, grunting at his discomfort. "Very well, I shan't say anything else until I see my daughter."
"There's a good sport." Hawks pat him again laughing and took point now. "Off we go!"
"I've got a bad feeling about this, Eraser." Mirio looked to Aizawa with a scowl. "I wish All Might could have joined us."
"Not like he could have done much… We just need to make sure he's not putting on some kind of performance. All the doctors we've taken him to have assured us that he's quirkless and paralyzed… but that still doesn't make him any less dangerous."
"Agreed… We've finally found some level of peace and order. I rather we not lose it now."
~Meeting Room 5~
Hawks wheeled All for One into the meeting room where Izumi sat at a table waiting. Her lips pursed in a frown, and eyes narrowed.
"Hello… father." She greeted him between clenched teeth.
"Ah, Izumi my dear… how wonderful it is to hear your voice." He smiled widely at her. "I only wish I still had my quirks so that I may see your face."
"We don't rely on quirks here, father." She stood up, picking up a helmet from the table and she placed it on his head. Flipping a switch it turned on and All for One made a small sighing sound as all his senses came to life.
"Ah, that's much better. Technology is such a wonderful thing." He looked around the room and then looked her up and down. "You've grown, my girl. I hear I'm a grandfather now. How wonderful!"
"I imagine Doctor Tsubasa told you that…" Just like she knew that it was Tsubasa who had cured his vegetable state of mind. She should have forced that maniac to come to the island. The old man just couldn't let his stupid research and loyalty to All for One go. "What else did he tell you?"
"Oh a bit of this, a bit of that. I heard you got a degree in psychology, you married the eldest son of Endeavor who is the father of your child, and that he's got his own stable career now. I heard Tomura's in charge of trade and financing for the island, and that he's married now… to a bloodthirsty psychopath no less."
"Hardly… Toga just has a unique way of showing affection. She's always been a sweet and gentle person, but now she's found a more stable method of pda. We've all found some level of stability here."
"Well now, I highly doubt that will last. Peace is only fleeting Izumi"
"Humph, we'll see." She smirked and walked around the table and sat down. She motioned Hawks to push him forward to the table. "Leave us Hawks… I need a private word with my father."
"I'm right next door if you need me, Izumi." He saluted and stepped away. He went to the adjoining room with the mirrored glass where Bakugo, Shoto, Eraser, and Mirio all sat and watched. "I feel like I'm watching an interrogation."
"Essentially you are." Bakugo tossed him a water bottle and then drank from his own. "If that fucker tries anything funny, I'm throwing him into the ocean to drown."
"Get in line." Shoto muttered, but pat his husband on the head affectionately. Bakugo grunted at the sign of affection and turned his head away a little to hide his flushed face.
"So…" Izumi crossed her arms and leaned back in her chair. "You wanted to talk to me, old man. Well I'm here, I'm listening."
"Such a selfish and unappreciative child you are, Izumi. After everything I'd done for you, everything I've taught you, you continue to treat me as your enemy." He tilted his head from side to side a little.
"Why should I be grateful to you? If you'd had your way I would have wound up exactly where you are now. Trapped and imprisoned, with no friends, no family, and without any form of sanity or dignity left."
"Now I wouldn't say I trapped. I've put in my application for the rehabilitation program."
"You'll be denied." Izumi assured. "Since I'm the one dealing with all the mental cases, I get a say in the villains that come in. You're lucky I even allowed this visitation."
"Are you afraid then? You're slogan is that anyone can have a second chance at life. Your denying mine?"
"You've had note chances than anyone to turn away from violence and crime. Instead you chose to remain a bitter and vengeful old man. I'm good...but even I know you can't be reformed."
"Wouldn't you prefer having me right under your nose then instead of I the care of the heroes who've fumbled so many times?"
"Oh and have you okay mind games with Tenko and the others? I don't think so! I rather you stay as far away from me and mine as possible."
"Is much rather play games with you, Izumi. You're far more entertaining. Tomura is intelligent in his ownway but you… are a challenge."
"Huh? That so? How about we play now then?" She leaned down to pull up a case from underneath the table and she opened it up. Inside was a chess board. "I've always enjoyed our games. I've gotten better and better over the years, so let's see if you've lost your touch old man." She placed the pieces on the board quietly and methodically then leaned in once the game was prepared. "Loser has to grant the winner one request. Deal?"
"Hardly a fair deal, my girl. I'm paralyzed, I cannot move my own pieces."
"The wonders of technology old man…" Izumi looked down at the board. "Pawn to E3."
"Ah…" All for One marveled at the way the piece moved on its own. "Magnets?"
"Gravity simulation, but I suppose that is a form of magnetism." She nodded her head. "Go on, try it."
"Hmmm…" He eyed the board, the helmet absorbing every piece of information on the table impressing him further with the clever use of technology. "Pawn to E5." He watched his piece move forward and let out another sigh. "Very impressive… but I'm still not inclined to agree when the odds are so against my favor."
"Mhmmm… how about this then. She lifted up a piece of cloth and tied it around her eyes and folded her arms over her chest. "There… now we're even."
"You drive a hard bargain my dear… very well. It's your move."
"Mmm... good. Pawn to D4."
The game began… At first neither of them said anything, they kept to their play, and focused on the behind the glass the visiting heroes watched with avid interest, and worry.
"I've never understood chess…" Hawks admitted rubbing his chin as he watched. He was thoroughly impressed that Izumi was able to memorize every move, and every piece on the board, as if she could sense where each and every piece was. "I was never any good at it."
"Me either…" Eraser rubbed the back of his neck. "I'm better at Mahjong."
"I'm a Shogi player myself…" Mirio laughed and stood up, feeling restless and anxious about what was happening. "Though I've taken an interest in Chess ever since Izumi challenged me at I-island. I can guarantee you the game isn't the only thing going on in her head. What she's doing is setting the stage, and preparing to rip the rug from underneath All for One."
"So friggin theatrical…" Bakugo snorted. "She should just punch him in the face and tell him to fuck off."
"Well we can't all be as efficient as you, Katsuki." Shoto sent him a smile and earned himself a shove.
"Knight to H3…" Izumi spoke with calm clarity, and rose a brow when All for One started to laugh. "May I ask what's funny?"
"You… by gods you're so predictable." He wished he could clap. "You've just handed me my win."
"Have I? How did I manage to do that?" She tilted her head to the side, "The game isn't over."
"Oh but it is… You moved your knight into checking position, giving my queen a clear opening to your king. One more move and I win."
"Hmmm… I guess you're right. I must not have memorized the board as well as I thought. I could have sworn I had a queen at E7."
"No my dear, you moved your Queen to A7." He explained with a laugh. "You've lost, you-" he paused when his queen started to move. "No… no wait that's not my move you stupid piece of-"
"Oh dear… you took my queen with your queen… but you know what that means?" Izumi removed her blindfold and physically lifted up the knight to knock over his king. "Checkmate."
"No! Cheat! You cheated me!" All for One seethed and bobbed his head back and forth. "How dare you? You little bitch!"
"Now, now, papa there's no reason to get so upset. It's only a game." She started gathering the pieces and he hissed from under the helmet.
"I want a rematch, you little cheat. The deal is off, it wasn't a fair win!"
"Wasn't it?" She closed the case and slid it across the table and she sat on the edge of it. "Did I tell you to boast? Did I tell you to get a big head and start claiming victory before you'd achieved it? That was your own folly, papa. You talk far too much for your own good."
"Stop it! Set that board up again and play me for real, I'm not done with you girl!"
"Oh, but I'm done with you, Papa." She gave him a kiss on the cheek and patted it in. "At least for now. I did enjoy this little game of ours. So… I'll tell you what." She knelt down and took his hands in hers looking up at his face with a wicked smile on her lips. "Here's my request… you go back to Tartarus, take a good long nap so you're not so cranky… and then come back and see me next month."
"What?" Genuinely confused and stunned by her request.
"I told you before didn't I? That I'd be willing to play this little game of ours as many times as you'd like. No one plays it quite the way you do, Papa." She squeezed his hands. "Everyone else," she whispered to him. "Kinda sucks."
Flabbergasted, that was the only word All for One could think of to explain what he was feeling. He was truly and utterly flabbergasted. Despite himself, he laughed.
"Is that so?"
"Oh yeah…" She grinned and pat his hands. She felt him squeeze her back and her eyes soften with affection. "So, what do you say? Deal?"
"Your such a strange child… You're not actually trying to reform me, are you my dear izumi?"
"No, Papa… I know that no matter how much I try you'll never change." She kissed his hands and stood up. "So, is it a deal or not?"
He took a long moment before responding.
"Aright… it's a deal. Go on and wheel me out of here. I'm sure they want to lock me back up as soon as possible." He sighed.
"Sure thing, papa." She came around and pushed him towards the door. "I gotta say it's much more fun to play with you, than worrying about you ruining my life."
"That it is, my girl." He chuckled and waited til Izumi removed the helmet from his head before speaking again. "Next time we play, I'm hopeful that I'll have the full use of my hands again."
"Are you? Good then maybe you'll actually have a fair chance against me." She smirked and glanced over to Hawks and the other heroes. Hawks gave her a wink and a thumbs up before taking over.
"Thanks for having us, Izumi. Now it's time to get this troublemaker back to Tartarus where he belongs." He whistled as he wheeled All for One towards the exit. Eraser started to follow, but he paused and glanced at Izumi.
"So?"
"The parylization is temporary. He's already regaining feeling in his hands. Watch yourselves."
"Will do." He nodded to her. "It's good to see you haven't lost your touch, Karma."
"That's Izumi, Sensei." She smiled and held out her hands. "I'm reformed, remember?"
"Keep telling yourself that kid." He smirked and followed Hawks out. Mirio took this time to pick up Izumi and swing her around.
"Izumi, you never cease to amaze me!" He set her back down. "You sure you're okay with him coming by once a month?"
"Yes… It's better that I know his condition and state of mind so I can be prepared for any backlash he might send my way." She crossed her arms. "Besides I wasn't kidding when I said I enjoyed myself. It's been a long time since someone's truly challenged me at Chess."
"You truly do astound me, you know that?" He hugged her. "The ferry won't be ready for another hour so I'm gonna go visit with Melissa before we leave."
"Ah… so THAT'S the real reason why you're here." She smirked. "Tell your girlfriend I say hi."
"Oh come on now, Izumi…" Mirio bashfully rubbed his neck. "You know it's not like that." He waved her off as he jogged away, but Izumi rolled her eyes.
"The man's as blind as he is super powered." She looked at her watch and then to Shoto and Bakugo. "Well I gotta get home. It's almost dinner time."
"We'll escort the others off the island just to be safe." Bakugo placed a hand on Izumi's shoulder. "You did good, Usagi."
"Thanks." She looked between the two boys and her eyes went full of affection. "I really mean it. It's been a lot easier to achieve my goals with you guys here. I appreciate your faith in me."
"You make it hard to not want to root for you, Izumi." Shoto admitted. "Even when we were on opposing sides, I couldn't help but hope that you'd find your way back to the lighter side." Izumi had to grin at that use of phrasing. Shoto understood her preference of grays rather than the overused metaphors of blacks and whites.
"Yeah… I gotta say it feels good, knowing I'm back on the right path again." She hugged them both and then pulled back. "Well I'll see you boys around." She waved to them and hurried off home.
~The Docks~
Hawks hummed a little as they waited for the Ferry to finish being prepped. Eraser stood on the opposing side making sure to keep watch from everything around them. All for One sat patiently, his fingers still trying to twitch and move, but he still couldn't quite get the feeling back in them.
"I do hope Lemillion makes it to the Ferry on time." He commented non-chalantly. "Wouldn't want to leave All Might's young protege behind."
"Lemillion can take care of himself, he knows what time the Ferry leaves so he'll be here." Eraser crossed his arms.
"If you insist, Aizawa, but perhaps one of you should go and-"
"Not a chance." Hawks and Eraser said together, making him laugh.
"Of course not… of course."
"Master…"
There was a moment of silence, the only sounds being the seagulls, ocean, and the huff puff of the Ferry's engine warming up. All heads turned to the far right, where Shigaraki stood in a bomber jacket, black slacks, and his white hair pulled back in a short tail.
"Shigaraki Tomura… is that yoiu?" All for One sighed with delight. "It's been a long time."
"No… It's Tenko Shimura. I've reclaimed my identity." He looked to Hawks and Eraser and nodded his head. "Heroes…"
"Shimura-san…" Hawks said in a warning tone. "Now's not the time for you two to-"
"You can relax… I'm not here to cause trouble… but I do have some choice words to say to the man you're harboring." He eyed All for One coolly. "You can listen in… it's no big secret."
Eraser and Hawks eyed each other before nodding.
"Alright… speak your peace, Mr. Shimura."
"Thank you." He stepped closer, the wind picking up and blowing his jacket in the wind. "Master… I wasn't sure if I should say anything to you, knowing you were here."
"I'm guessing you made up your mind to say something after all while you had the chance?" He grinned slightly. "Go on then… Izumi's already spoken her peace. Go ahead and do the same my boy."
"Alright… I wanted to say I'm grateful to you." He clenched his hands in his pockets. "You may have been acting selfishly, and used me for your own purposes… but the truth of the matter is you took me in when my world was falling apart. You made me feel like I was someone who could accomplish great things, and you gave me the confidence to accept who I was and take my revenge on the world that shunned me."
"I did care for you my boy… not as much as most would for their sons, but I'll admit to having paternal affections towards you and Izumi. I'm proud of what you two have accomplished together, even if the whole idea is rather preposterous."
"Is it?" Tenko frowned. "I don't think so."
"Oh?" All for One's expression turned curious. It was just one surprise after another today.
"The day you rescued me from the streets, you told me you felt sorry for me. You hugged me, and whispered that you couldn't believe how people could just ignore me as I plead for help, expecting a hero to save me. No one would come, you said… no one cares about me, but you."
"Was I wrong?"
"Yes… it may have taken a while, but I was saved. Izumi saved me. Izumi, Toga, Kurogiri, and the rest of the league… they saved me." He pulled his hands out of his pockets and held them out. "With or without my quirk they all accept me for who I am, and who I was. They don't pity me, or feel sorry for me… they genuinely care about me. So yes, you were wrong."
"I see… my goodness how Izumi has warped you and all the other criminal's minds. She certainly putting that degree of hers to good use." He laughed. "You can't honestly be happy here, Tomura… and doing what? Doing paperwork? Playing on a calculator? That work is far beneath you boy. You could have been King!"
"I am King… I'm the King of my own life. I choose to live it how I want, and I don't let anyone else tell me how." He sneered at All for One. "You told me I could do as I pleased… but you only said that because you knew my anger, and self loathing would push me down the same dark path as you. Izumi showed me another way, she showed me how to be a real King. Someone who leads by example, who's smart, and thinks about others and not just himself."
All for One could feel his shoulders tightening and he rolled his head before leaning back in his chair. His muted look of irritation just spurred Shigaraki to keep talking.
"Izumi taught me how to love… not just in the romantic way… but in every aspect of life." He looked down at his hand, clenching and unclenching his fist. "Before I met her I hated everything. I hated heroes, I hated the world… I especially hated myself."
"I don't pretend to know what you're going through, Tomura."
Izumi's words that stay were still fresh in his mind, and he closed his eyes imagining them in the bar, her lying on the floor, his hand around her neck and threatening to kill her. She showed no fear, no sympathy… she just looked at him with such understanding that it puzzled him.
"Killing him isn't going to make the hate and pain go away!"
She'd taken all of his anger, frustrations, and pain and used herself as a shield, taking the brunt of it all. She'd taken his beatings, his abuse, and his malice and met him with kindness, and understanding. He'd taken that kindness for granted, and in the end it made him lose her.
That simple and painful fact is what made him change. He didn't want to be someone who hated everything. He wanted to be someone who could love, and be loved. So he changed, he made plans, he looked out for his comrades, and became a true leader and a true king. He'd found such fulfilment and contentment in leading his comrades, in making plans, and providing them safety and security… and little by little he began to see the world the way Izumi saw it. He saw hope, and faith, and love.
"I don't hate the world anymore… I don't hate heroes anymore… and I don't hate myself anymore, and it's all because at one time she loved me. Izumi made me realize what value my life could truly have. Because of that I found someone else who loves me, and I'm grateful for it everyday. I will take all the lessons I've learned, and treat Himiko the way she deserves to be treated." He slowly smiled, his face soft with pure affection. "Like a queen."
"She truly has changed you…" All for One sighed and shifted his head as the captain of the Ferry called for passengers to board. "It's a pity… you had such promise, Tomura."
"I'm sorry to disappoint you master… but I wish you well in your endeavors." Tenko put his hands back in his pockets. "Have a safe trip back."
"Tenko Shimura!" All for One called out, making him stop and glance back. "I expect you to be present the next time I visit. From what I hear, your skills in playing chess need work."
"Ah…" Tenko chuckled and waved his hand in salute. "Well you know me… I'm far better at video games and simulations than chess."
"Life isn't a video game, Tenko. You'll do well to remember that there is no reset button. Once you start playing the game of life, there's no stopping until it's game over." He leaned back again as Hawks rolled him up the plank and to the Ferry. Lemillion came bounding down the street hailing the others before going right past Tenko who stared and watched the Ferry pull out.
"Unless of course you're like you and Izumi who use cheat codes to start all over." He muttered and smirked to himself. "Most of us don't have that luxury."
~Todoroki Household~
"Izumi's home!" Kota called out as he tossed the ball for their dog Natsu. The puppy was now full grown and could sprint from one side of the yard to the other a matter of seconds. He chased the ball down, picking it up between his teeth then made a bee line for Izumi plopping the ball at her feet rather than Kota's.
"Good boy, Natsu… Now go get it!" She tossed the ball again then went to Kota to hug him. "Where's your brother and sister?"
"Eri's out collecting sea shells for an art project, and Finnick's in time out for sassing dad again." Kota explained and picked up the ball Natsu brought back, only to wing it again.
"That boy…" Izumi sighed and shook her head. "Eight years old, quirkless, and he still thinks he's royalty." She ruffled Kota's hair. "I'll go talk to him. How was your visit with Mandalay and the other Pussy Cats?"
"Eh," he shrugged and picked up the ball again, but this time just tossed it from hand to hand. "It went fine I guess."
"They still trying to convince you to go back with them?" She rubbed his back, but he shook his head.
"No… they gave up on that. They know I'm a lot happier here with you and dad." He sighed and crouched down to ruffle Natsu's fur. "It's just… I dunno, I feel weird everytime I see them. Like I'm still doing something bad."
That's because they're your family, Kota, just as much as we are." She crouched with him and rubbed his back. "You can't change who you're related to by blood… and you can't erase the years you spent in their care. A part of you is always gonna feel guilty about it because you know in your heart that they love you. What's important is that you recognize that… and to make sure they know that you still love them too."
"Yeah…" he smiled and lifted his head. "You're right. Thanks, mom."
"Awww…" Izumi cuddled Kota. "I love it when you call me that!" She kissed his cheek. "I'm gonna go start dinner. Be sure to wash up once you're done playing with the overgrown pup."
"Alright! I'll go track down Eri and bring her home too."
Izumi watched Kota and Natsu run out the gate and towards the beach. Her smile was soft and eyes filled with love and affection. She held her heart and went inside the cozy two story to find the rest of her family.
"Hello? Touya! Finnick! I'm home!" She walked into the living room and put her hands on her hips when she saw Finnick sitting on the couch playing video games. "I heard you were supposed to be in time out, young man."
"I got a shortened sentence for good behavior." He sent her a cocky grin, and put the controller down to jump up and hug her. "Welcome home."
"Thank you, sweetie." She crouched and poked his nose. "What did you and your dad argue about this time?"
"He told me to take the trash out, and I said I couldn't because he was too heavy."
"Oh Pffft…." Izumi held her mouth trying not to laugh, and failing miserably at it. "Oh Finn, you didn't!"
"I said I was sorry, but he sent me to time out anyway." He pouted and fidgeted a little. "I don't get it, Uncle Tenko makes that joke all the time."
"Yeah, but not to his face." She grabbed his chin. "He knows better than to start a fight with your dad. Uncle Tenko doesn't like time out either."
"Ooooh…" Finnick held his mouth then whispered. "Okay… but I can say it if he's not around?"
"No… you can save that trash talk for your grandfather." She patted his head and stood up.
"Grandfather?" Finnick rubbed his head and gave his mother a curious look. "I thought you said he was dead."
"Your Grandpa Enji is dead… you haven't met my father."
"Yeah, but I thought he was dead too…"
"Not as dead as I would like…" she muttered and walked to the stairs. "Turn off that game and go wash up for dinner."
"Mmmkay!" He saved his game and then ran to the downstairs bathroom. Izumi in the meantime went to Touya's study, found him crouched over his computer.
"How's the novel coming?" She smiled at him leaning on the jamb, Touya immediately looked up at her, and got to his feet.
"Hey…" he took her in his arms hugging her. "You alright? Toga said you had it handled but-"
"I'm fine… but the hug is appreciated." She closed her eyes breathing him in. "Long day."
"I can imagine…" Touya lifted her head up and searched her eyes. "You sure you're okay? You just dealt with your least favorite person today."
"Yeah… I'm exhausted naturally… but I'm also kinda elated by what happened." She laughed a bit. "He's coming back next month."
"What? Next month? Why?" He scowled when Izumi just shrugged.
"I don't wanna talk about him, alright Touya? All for One's ruined enough of my life, and I refuse to let him ruin one more day of it. The situation was handled, and right now I just want a nice meal with my loving family… and afterwards soak in a nice hot tub to wash away all the bad juju… and then make passionate love with my husband." She fluttered her lashes. "Deal?"
"Alright, alright, you win." He took her face in his hands and kissed her. "Just promise me if you have nightmares you'll try not to kick me in the balls this time."
"Tch, one time and I'm branded for life."
"It was twice, and let's just say if it happens a third time I'm gonna start wearing a cup to bed." He plopped back down at his computer desk, and groaned a bit when Izumi started to rub his shoulders. "Ooof, that's more like it."
"Mmmm you like?" She giggled against his ear and kissed his neck. "Mmm how is the novel going by the way?"
"I've got less than a hundred to go, and my deadlines this saturday. So I'm hopeful that I'll get it done in time." There's a sudden crash of the front door, followed by high pitch barking and laughter. Touya sighed and rubbed the bridge of his nose. "Providing, of course, my darling children will give me a moment's peace."
"You love the noise and you know it." Izumi corrected him and gave his neck another kiss before pulling back. "I'm gonna go start dinner. Don't work too long or I'll drag your butt down to the kitchen."
"With your height?" He scoffed and smirked. "Good luck, quirkless midget."
"Hey…" she pointed at him. "This midget may be quirkless, but she can still kick your ass."
"Pfft… oh yeah." He leaned back in his chair eyeing his wife up and down. "Don't I know it."
"Glad we got that settled… now you've got thirty minutes, Touya. If you're not downstairs in thirty minutes I'm pulling you downstairs by your ear." She patted the door even as she started to close it. "I mean it thirty minutes!"
"Yeah, yeah I hear yah…" he waved her off and then looked to his novel. He scowled through the pages, taking a moment here and there to proof read it. He never had the intention of becoming a novelist… but after writing one book on a whim, and selling it to an outside publishing company for a portion of the profites. Surprisingly, it had become a #1 hit seller. Now he was being bombarded day and night by the public for a sequel… but was unsure how to tell the ending.
How does one put on a happily ever after for a normal everyday kind of couple. They weren't rich and famous, so there was no fly away honeymoon destination after a big glorious wedding. Their lives hadn't changed all that much once their mutual love for each other had been confirmed and celebrated. So how did one write an ending that wasn't suited for the grand magic hollywood treatment?
"Hmmm…" Dabi tapped his pen to lip and stood up. Perhaps he would have more clarity once he devoured some dinner. Taking his pad and notebook with him he started down the steps, and paused when the scents of Izumi's cooking wafted to his nose. After months upon months of practice the woman had finally gained some talent in the culinary department. Now he actually looked forward to the days she cooked… the food smelled good, tasted good… and she looked good cooking it.
Maternal life suited Izumi more so than any other role he'd seen her take on. He like watching her with the kids, or handle a simple home life task such as cooking or cleaning. He liked her on her days off when she just roamed around the house in a pair of sweats and one of his T shirts, all that long curly hair piled atop her head. He liked cuddling in bed with her… the sex was good as always… but the cuddling just added a whole new level to it.
He wanted to cuddle her now, he realized with a smile as he watched her meticulously plate her pasta, and direct Eri in tossing a salad. Her brows knit when she spotted Kota sneak a piece of bread from the plates and scolded him for it. When Natsu took the opportunity of Kota being distracted and snagged the bread from his hand to eat it himself, everyone laughed… and so did he.
The picture they made filled his heart with joy, and with hope that things could just go on like this. For years he let his hatred for his father and society draw a dark cloud over his life… but he didn't want his life to remain dark and stormy anymore.
Izumi was right. For the first time in a long time he truly felt the sun on his face, and the warmth of his family nearby. He didn't want to waste time by thinking of what could be lurking around the corner. Life was short, so why waste it by...
...well holy shit.
"I get it now." Touya said it aloud this time, and opened his notebook and quickly jotted the ending of his book down before it left his head.
Happily Ever After… is not an ending. It is instead a promise of hope for the upcoming future. Life was treating them well for now, but everyone in that room knew that happiness is fleeting. We all know that fear, anger, hatred, and jealousy could burn and flare up at any given moment. The smallest negative emotion could ruin your happiness… but only if you let it.
Life is a series of games… and if you focus too hard on winning, you'll only lose in the end. Instead learn to enjoy what each game has to offer; appreciate every move, every piece, and every aspect of it…
"Touya!" Izumi snapped her fingers in his face, snapping him out of his daze. "Come on, dinner's ready. Stop writing and come sit down."
"Alright, alright… just one more sentence." He promised her with a small kiss.
"Just one…" she held up a finger and then crooked it so to lure him towards the table. She sat down eyeing him before turning her attention to the kids again. Touya's smile went wide and he quickly wrote down the last verse before closing his notebook, and setting it aside so he could join his family for dinner.
Just have fun...because if you don't… then what's the point in playing?
THE END!
~ASK BRIRY~
HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE! I hope you guys enjoyed the last chapter of the "Happily Ever After" ending. I will be working on the other two endings in between my other projects so please look forward to that, and my upcoming new fic:
"Fighting Off Instinct"
Which features a Deku x Bakugo in a Dom/Sub verse.
Thanks for reading!
