For the most part, the school festival is a success.
The kids set up shop as planned. They scour the mountain and make use of its natural resources to create a restaurant of high renown. Aguri only gets to try one or two of the meals- they're much too busy trying to pedal them out to passers-by to share, but they're great, from what she can tell! And lots of people stop by.
Things are slow at first, with the E-Class's reputation, but over the course of the first day things start to pick up. One by one, familiar faces appear… and although Aguri can't say she recognizes them, the kids certainly do.
"Guys! Holy shit!" Fuwa calls, rushing back into the kitchen a little past 12. "You'll never guess who showed up!"
"Language-" Aguri reminds her, pretty much to no avail.
The other students are quick to speak up, asking "Who!?"
"It's those assassin guys! From the school trip! Grip, Gastro, and Smog. They actually came!"
"What!?" Akari responds, looking a bit stunned. "We didn't even invite them."
"I guess they must have heard through the grapevine," Isogai says, tugging on Maehara's hand. "Come on, everyone, you've got to meet them. They're actually pretty cool."
"Dibs on serving them," Karma pipes up, hands behind his head.
"No way!" Sugino replies. "You already got to meet them. Let the rest of us do something for once!"
Aguri stands in the doorway as the students rush out. She's not sure she really gets the appeal, but at least Itona's there to support her.
"I'm not sure I know what's going on, either," he whispers, rolling his eyes.
After that are the kids from the daycare. Now they're someone Aguri recognizes. They come along with Mr. Matsukata… hollering the whole way up the mountain and greeting the students with vigor. They make big orders, kick poor Terasaka in the shins, and tell the older kids all about their exploits since the last time they met.
Aguri dons her human disguise and joins Matsukata for just a moment. She asks him how he's doing. Is he really feeling better after all of that?
He reports that he is. His back's healed up well, and he's not having any lingering pain. She's thankful to hear that. As proud as she is of the bonds the students formed at the daycare, she doesn't know what she'd do if the consequences of their actions were permanent. Poor Matsukata deserves better than that.
Thankfully, he doesn't seem to have much of a remaining grudge towards them. He teases them gently, but it's clear he's proud of the students as well.
After them comes a band of delinquents. Once again, they're people Aguri doesn't recognize… and they even seem intent on causing trouble, but that's dealt with in no time. They fall in love with the students' wonderfully made meals, and taking advantage of that, the kids extort them for all that they're worth.
All in all, things are going well.
The first hiccup arrives late that day. A boy comes stumbling onto the premises shouting for Nagisa, and Aguri returns to the school building to go and grab him. She's not sure who the person is, but if he has a friend seeking him out she doesn't want to leave him in the dark.
What she finds is rather atrocious. Within the classroom, Karma and Nakamura are staring Nagisa down like a pack of wild dogs. Stifling a laugh and holding out what's clearly a school uniform, Nakamura says "I feel bad, man, I really do! But what needs to be done needs to be done. You wanna make the sale, right?"
"I mean… of course I do-" Nagisa replies, hands out in front of him. "But is this really the only way to go about it? I'd prefer not to...- seriously, I meant it when I said the jokes were water under the bridge, but I don't want to lie to him."
"Don't think of it as lying," Karma suggests, elbowing him. "Think of it as just leaving facts out. Like a businessperson does. He doesn't need to know we're fucking with him. And besides, it shouldn't bother you anymore, yeah? You've already gotten all of that attention to help you out. Surely you can suck it up and help the rest of us out for once."
There's malice to his tone. Where Nakamura is clearly just joking- albeit in a mean-spirited way, something tells Aguri that getting a laugh is the least of Karma's concerns. He's not stifling a snicker, at least not legitimately. His intent is to poke at a sore spot... and oh what a sore spot it is.
It's only just now that she processes what it is the two of them are holding out… and as she does, her blood runs cold. For there it is, the subject of their gibes and jeers: not just any uniform, but that of a girl's.
Needless to say, she's on them in an instant.
"And what are you two doing!?"
Nakamura and Karma jump. Whipping around, Nakamura explains, "Oh. Uh- it's not what it looks like! This guy just showed up to the school festival, you see? Nagisa's met him before, and he's convinced that he's, like, his little girlfriend. We were thinking we'd get Nagisa all dressed up and scam the living daylights out of him. Y'know- a true E-Class scheme. It's not like we meant any harm by it. Nagisa was cool with it. Right, Nagisa?"
Nagisa doesn't respond right away. Shifting a bit, he says, "Well… I don't know about cool with it, but you weren't trying to cause any trouble, yeah." He rubs at his arm. "Sorry, Yukimura-sensei. I didn't mean to cause a disruption. I just…-"
He drifts off.
Aguri's not sure why he's apologizing, but she's upset nevertheless. She turns to Nakamura and Karma, giving them a serious look.
"If he doesn't want to do it you shouldn't force him. That's incredibly insensitive of you two. You know what he just went through… and you still thought that was something appropriate to joke about? Why?"
Nakamura sputters. "Well, Nagisa just said that…- he told us that jokes like that were fine if they were from us. We weren't trying to pick on him, I swear. It's just friendly joshing…"
"Nagisa?" Aguri asks. "Did you say that?"
She thinks she expected him to shake his head, but it turns out Nakamura's not lying. He gives a quiet nod.
"I know they're just messing around," he says. "I wouldn't want to make them feel bad for that. It's how they express their affection."
Another frown. She gets what he's trying to do, but she doesn't like it. He can repress it all he wants, but there's no hiding just how uncomfortable he is with the 'teasing.' She saw the way he was staring at the school uniform when she first walked in. He was distraught.
"Nakamura," she says. "Even if he gave you permission, that's still not alright. You need to consider that he might have done that to keep the peace. You wouldn't make fun of my trauma just because I said it's alright, would you?"
"...No," Nakamura admits, a look of guilt crossing her face. "I just thought that- it's how we interact. And we needed to find a way to beat the A-Class."
"There are more important things to worry about than proving the A-Class wrong. Your friends should always come first. And so don't make him do this, alright? You'll find another way to make a sale. And you'll find another way to interact with him, too. In having a relationship based on purely making him a punching bag, then you're not acting like his friend. You're acting like a bully."
"I guess you're right," Nakamura responds. She twirls a strand of hair around her finger. "I'm sorry, Nagisa. I didn't mean to actually cross a line. I'm just getting used to how things are different now."
"It's okay," Nagisa says. "I don't want you to actually feel bad. Just… please don't do it again, alright? Yukimura-sensei's right. It does feel a little weird."
Nakamura nods. It's a bit hard to tell whether she actually regrets her actions or if she's just trying to sate Aguri, but Aguri's content for now. She'll keep an eye on her in the future to make sure nothing like this ever happens again. And that means she only has one thing left to worry about.
"Karma," she says, voice stern. "You too. I don't know if Nakamura started it, but you also joined in. Apologize to Nagisa."
Karma's lip twitches a bit. He hasn't spoken once since Aguri stepped in, and although he tries his best to keep his pompous demeanor, he's clearly irritated deep down.
"Yeah," he says. "Whatever. Fine. I won't do it again." A pause. "...Since you clearly have someone breathing down your neck and babying you. I'm sorry you're the one person here who can't take a joke, but I'll leave you alone if you're really so sensitive. I just hope the rest of the class will be able to make it without your help."
And with that, he's gone. He doesn't even wait for Aguri's scolding. He simply struts out of the classroom, hands in his pockets, and makes his way back to the outside.
Nakamura gives an awkward frown. Staring, she says, "Jeez. I dunno who pissed in his cornflakes this morning."
Nagisa takes a step back. Letting out a low sigh, he says "...Whatever. He's always like that. Leave it be. Can you just deal with Yuuji for now? I'll be out to see him in one second. I just need a moment to… get ready."
Nakamura's gaze flits down towards the school uniform. "You can't tell me you're seriously intending to put this on," she replies.
"I'm not," Nagisa insists. "I've just got to… come up with another plan. And so spot me, alright?"
"Alright," Nakamura replies, giving a nod. "I'll distract him for a bit. Just don't take too long. He's clearly impatient."
"I won't," Nagisa replies. "And… thank you."
"Of course," Nakamura says. "Anytime."
And then she's gone as well.
Her demeanor seems legitimately different from Karma's. While her behavior is still inexcusable, Aguri gets the impression that she really did legitimately think it was funny. Meanwhile Karma- the way he storms off… there's something strange about it. It makes Aguri think.
'Babying,' he'd said. Is he jealous of the attention Nagisa is getting? Or could it be something else?
...There's no dealing with it now, she supposes. But she reminds herself to talk to him later. If he thinks that Nagisa is getting too much attention, then the solution isn't to leave Nagisa out to dry. It's to make sure Karma feels like he's being heard, too.
Before any of that, though, there's Nagisa. She turns to the boy, giving him a concerned look.
"What was all of that?" she asks. "Who's that boy out there? Is it really true that he thinks you're a girl?"
Nagisa nods. Looking exhausted, he explains "I met him back while we were on summer vacation. The girls had to go through a party to get to where we needed to be, and they didn't feel comfortable doing it alone. So they made me…-" a pause. "I offered to dress up as a girl and come with them. That way they wouldn't get hurt. But there I met Yuuji."
"I don't think he meant any harm," he continues. "He was a little weird, but not, like. Dangerous. He just fell head over heels for me. I thought that it might have been because he was drunk at the time, but…" he drifts off. "He's here again now. So I guess that's not it."
Aguri frowns. Sure enough, the boy outside is still calling Nagisa's name. Nakamura is attempting to distract him, but it's not going to last for long.
"What are you going to do?" She asks.
"Tell him, I guess," Nagisa replies. "It's not like I have much of a choice."
"Are you sure that's a good idea?"
"Not really. But I'm not going to keep lying to him, especially not at the expense of my own comfort. He deserves to know the truth, even if it hurts a little bit at first."
Aguri nods. "Alright," she says. "If that's what you think is best. You're not going to out yourself to him, though, right?"
"Of course not," Nagisa replies. "Like I said, I barely even know the guy. I'm just going to tell him that I'm a boy. It's all that he needs to know."
"Good," Aguri replies. "I agree. You don't owe him anything. Just let him down gently and send him on his way. I'm sure he won't be too mad."
"Well, I'm not sure about that," Nagisa says with an uneasy tone. "But I guess I can only hope that you're right." He shakes himself off, then makes his way towards the doorway. "Uh… thanks, by the way. For standing up for me. That really meant a lot."
"Of course," Aguri replies. "I wasn't going to let all that hard work we did go to waste. Just let me know if you ever need anything else in the future. And try not to let Karma get under your skin."
She knows she should bring up Nakamura, too, but somehow it feels less pressing. The way Karma singled Nagisa out… it was different.
"Don't worry," Nagisa says. "I won't."
...However, he doesn't leave quite yet. He stands in the doorway, silent, almost as if there's something else he'd still like to discuss.
Aguri feels it too.
"Wait," she says. "Before you go. Can I ask you a question?"
"What is it?"
Nagisa doesn't move a muscle.
"You and Karma. What was the deal with that? He seemed really mean-spirited with the way he was acting- like he didn't even think it was a joke. Why would he do that? I thought the two of you were friends?"
"We are," Nagisa says. "Or at least… we used to be." His shoulders wilt a little. "I don't know. We used to be close, and then one day he just pulled away. He's been like this ever since. I don't know what I did wrong."
Aguri's heart aches. Taking a step closer, she says, "I'm sure it's nothing you did. Karma just seems like… a very troubled person. Whatever's happening, it's not your fault."
"Yeah," Nagisa says. "I know that realistically. But I dunno. It just feels like… he has a grudge. I wish that I could talk to him about it, but it feels like he'd kill me if I tried."
"Awwww," Aguri says. "I'm sure that's not true. But I get the fear. I'll keep an eye on him, alright? Regardless of whatever's going on between the two of you, I don't want to see him making a joke of your trauma."
"Alright," Nagisa replies. "But… I think I should get going now. I wouldn't want to keep Yuuji waiting any longer than I already have."
"Okay," Aguri says. "Thank you for talking to me, Nagisa, and I hope things go well."
"Yeah," he says. "Me too."
And like that, he's gone. Aguri can't hear what he says to Yuuji through the walls, but horror slowly dawns on the other boy's face. He stands quickly and starts to go- leaves looking anxious and upset.
Nagisa admittedly looks a little upset as well, but some of the load on his shoulders has lightened. He walks with a quicker pace from thereon out. No doubt, he's glad to have told the truth.
And with Nagisa's closure comes the end to day one. Their restaurant closes up shop and they all go home for the night. They return the next morning, prepared to work another hard day… only to find that something's changed. And oh, in what a delightful way it has.
Because before they even arrive, the mountainside is packed.
The students are stunned. Slack-jawed, they ask all the people just what they're doing here. Their answer, of course, is that they're here to be fed. Haven't they heard? A prestigious food blogger left a glowing review on their restaurant! And with only one day left to come… well, they had to seize the chance!
Aguri can hardly even believe it. But the kids take to the challenge well. They hurry to serve everyone, eager to live up to the expectations… and they work doubly as hard as the day before. Everyone is in good spirits, even Nagisa… and though they're exhausted by the time they're halfway through the day, things are going great.
Sugino, Yada, and Isogai are outside on waiting duty when Yoshida comes scrambling in. Getting Muramatsu's, Hazama's, and Hara's attention, he says "Holy shit. Did you guys see what the cat dragged in!?"
"No?" Muramatsu asks, looking up from where he's furiously whipping up a bowl of ramen. "What is it?"
"That guy's there! The fucking- Reaper! He's right outside!"
Aguri feels her heart skip a beat.
"What!?" Megu asks, head jerking upwards. Yoshida had only been addressing his friends, but his voice is loud enough for the whole class to hear. Looking stunned, she says "What do you mean he's outside!?"
"I dunno! He's just out there! It's definitely the same guy!" Yoshida replies. "He didn't even bother to put on a different face or anything."
Sugaya glances out the window. Sure enough, he jolts.
"Holy shit!" He says. "Yoshida's right. It's the dude!"
Everyone who's not actively working with a literal, actual, oven makes their way over to the window. Placing down knives and supplies, they press their faces to the glass.
"What on earth is he doing here?" Hazama asks. "Last I checked, wasn't he trying to kill us?"
"He wouldn't be the first person to do that and try and get food from us anyways," Hayami retorts. "Didn't those Grip, Gastro, and Smog guys just show up yesterday?"
"They weren't actually trying to kill us, though," Fuwa points out. "Remember? They lied to Takaoka to give us a fighting chance."
"You can say that all you want," Hayami replies. "But Gastro still tried to shoot us with guns!"
"Do you think he's here to attack Korosensei?" Kimura asks.
"Oh gosh, I hope not," Okuda replies.
"If he did, that would really bring down our rating on Yelp." Takebayashi pushes his glasses up towards the bridge of his nose.
Aguri finally finds her words. Stepping over to the window, she explains "No. It's alright. I invited him."
The class whips around.
"You what!?"
Akari and Itona, who hadn't said a word up until now, exchange a knowing glance. Nodding, Akari says, "I thought that was the case."
"I've been visiting him," Aguri continues, hoping to ease some of the class's fears. "Remember how I checked up on him after Karasuma beat him in the fight? I've been keeping an eye on him ever since, and it turns out that he's actually a pretty cool person. None of you are obligated to interact with him if you don't want- he put you all in a lot of danger- but I figured this could be a good opportunity for those of you who are interested in meeting him on friendlier terms to say hello. That… and for him to talk to Korosensei, too."
"What's this about me?" Korosensei asks, peeking his head into the room. His hands are full of berries and nuts, no doubt gathered from the mountain for the kids to add to their meals.
"Your estranged son is outside," Nakamura says without missing a beat. "You might want to do something about that."
It takes Korosensei a minute to process what she's talking about. But when she does, his whole body goes stiff. He leaps to the ceiling in one swift motion- huddling in the corner of the wall.
"WAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! And so you mean he actually came!? Oh my-! Oh my! I really didn't expect that! What on earth am I going to say!?"
"Well I dunno about you," Maehara replies, giving him a sneer. "But I am so going out to see him. Are you kidding me? This kind of thing only happens once in a lifetime. We've got to talk."
"It's a little scary," Okuda admits. "But if Yukimura-sensei really says it's okay…-"
"It'll be fine," Akari reassures her. "You're right. She knows what she's talking about. And besides… if he was really here to hurt us then, he wouldn't be doing it in the middle of all this commotion. A good hundred-fucking-people have to be here. He'd blow his cover in an instant if he really tried to attack."
"...Right," Okuda says with a nod.
"I… I dunno-" Mimura says. "This is still kind of giving me the heebie-jeebies."
"Then you can stay inside," Aguri reassures, placing a hand on his shoulder. "No-one has to serve him if they don't feel safe doing so. And as for you," she turns towards Korosensei. "All you need to say is what you've already told him. Repeat that you're proud of him and that you're glad to get to see him again. It doesn't have to be any more complex than that. I'm sure he'll really appreciate it."
"...Very well then," Korosensei replies. His face is still a pale white, but he does finally creep down from the ceiling. He readjusts his cap. "Just give me a moment. Can one of you collect his order? I think I need a chance to compose myself."
"Of course," Maehara replies, making his way towards the door. "I'm sure Isogai and the crew are already on it, but I'm not gonna pass up a chance to get to mob the guy."
Aguri, Itona, Akari, Nagisa, Maehara and Okuda follow after. She gets the impression that a few more people would've liked to come, but they're not going to be the first to step forward… especially when Reaper- no, Damien- is already getting so much attention as is.
Sure enough, Isogai and Yada are already talking with him. He looks up as the rest of them come close, cocking an eyebrow.
"Wow," he says. "You really brought the whole entourage, huh?"
"They're excited to see you!" Aguri replies. "As am I. I can't believe you really came! For a second there I thought you wouldn't show up."
"Well…" Damien says, leaning back in his seat. "You did suddenly become the talk of the town. I couldn't pass that opportunity up. Especially not when I already had an invite."
The students' eyes sparkle a bit.
"And so she really did give him an invite," Okuda whispers, almost in disbelief.
Isogai and Yada shoot her a stunned look, still not entirely in the loop.
"This is fantastic," Aguri continues. "Now you can finally meet the kids for real!"
"Yeah, yeah," Damien replies. "I think I recognize most of them. That's the one who surrendered," he says, pointing at Itona. "And that's your sister, yeah?" Akari. "She looks just like you. Then there's the smart one… the loud one, the one with a head on his shoulders, and..." he drifts off as he gets to Nagisa. Squints a bit. "Well, I think I recognize that one."
He's quiet for a moment, but soon continues onward. Stretching a bit, he asks.
"And so where's the old man? Is he in there with an apron and chef's hat on, or is he still avoiding me?"
"Bit of both," Aguri replies. "He'll be out to say hello to you soon enough, but first he wanted a chance to catch his breath."
Damien 'tsks' a little bit. His lip twitching, he says "Well, that's only typical."
Something tells Aguri he's disappointed, but not surprised.
"He's excited to see you," she reassures. "It's just…- you know how he is. He's neurotic."
"Is he now?" Reaper replies. "That's news to me. But enough of my whining- you're right, I came here for food."
He turns towards the kids, a glint in his eyes. "Mind taking my order?" He asks. "Don't worry. I'm not here to hurt you. At least not much. I'm simply starving. Can I get the mont blanc, acorn noodles, and slender caesar mushroom? Seasoned with ginger, thank you very much."
"Of course," Isogai replies, already scribbling down his order. He's confused, of course, but he's diligent if nothing else.
"And we're not scared of you, by the way," Akari notes. "So don't try that whole 'I won't hurt you much' thing on me. I'd like to see you try. You're as good as in public here, dude."
Damien's laugh is practically a purr. Giving a smirk, he says, "I'm well aware. And I really don't have violent intent, I swear. As funny as it'd be, I'm not interested in harming Miss Yukimura's favorite playthings. Especially not when you're all so interesting." A pause. "You put up a pretty good fight last time I saw you."
"We know," Yada replies, point-blank. "And so would you like nut skewers with that or what?"
Damien's a tad dumbfounded, but nods nevertheless. "Yes," he says. "That'd be great."
With that, Isogai and Yada make their way inside. The rest of the students don't retreat, however, still crowding Damien's table as they bombard him with questions.
"So are you finally done being evil and fucked up?" One asks.
"How'd it feel to get beat up by Karasuma-sensei?"
"Is it true Yukimura-sensei made you brownies?"
"Can you show me that move you used sometime?"
"What was it like having Korosensei for a dad?"
He hardly seems overwhelmed. Firing off one answer after another, he replies "No. Unexpected. They were cookies, actually. Perhaps," and "Pretty terrible." Despite the variety of the kids' questions, he takes them in stride. Deflecting the jokes and soaking in the praise all at once, he somehow seems in his element.
Aguri smiles. For a second there she'd thought he might be annoyed to see them, but it seems that's not the case. He's thick-skinned enough to take their insults, and desperate enough that he accepts their compliments with pride.
She allows them to chat with him like that for a little bit. Although she quickly reigns them back in. As much as she'd like to have them all get to know each other, they've still got a job to do, and she reminds them of that.
"I think I see a line over there," she comments. "Why don't you take their orders? We can talk with Reaper more later."
The class is reluctant, but ultimately agrees. As much as they'd like to get to know the professional assassin, there are more important things to worry about: namely kicking the A-Class's ass. Meeting up with a guy who kills people for a living is rad. But making Gakushuu cry like a baby? Now that's the stuff of dreams.
Aguri hangs back for a second after they're gone. Glancing down at where Damien sits, she asks how exactly he knew about Nagisa.
"Hm?" The man replies.
"You knew he was the one I'd been talking about, right? That's why you singled him out."
"Ah," Damien replies. "Yes. I suppose so. But as for how I was able to tell he was the one…" He brings his hand to his chin. "Well, there was just a dark look in his eyes. You don't see that unless someone's truly been pushed to the edge. Although perhaps it's fading now."
'Fading?' Aguri thinks. She's not really sure what that means. She's never seen something violent in Nagisa's expression, but she supposes Damien knows what he's talking about. And hey, even if she can't make it out in Nagisa...
She can almost swear she spots the same look fading in Damien's eyes, too.
She excuses herself and returns inside. She's content to leave him out there for a bit while the students finish his meal. He's watching them with interest- perhaps even affection, and that's enough for her.
Korosensei is waiting for her. Pacing in circles as the students cook, his head shoots her way the moment she enters. Making his way over to her side, he asks "How is he?"
"Good," Aguri replies. "He's really getting to know the students. I think that he likes them, believe it or not. Or he thinks they're entertaining, at least."
"That's good," Korosensei replies, although falling into awkward silence soon after. "I was worried about how they'd get along."
"Mmm," Aguri says, wondering if she should touch on the elephant in the room. Some part of her is hesitant, but she knows she can't be ambivalent. She saw Damien's expression when he realized Korosensei hadn't come out yet. He was disappointed- and even worse, unsurprised. He'd expected that of Korosensei. She can't allow that to pass. He has to talk to him, and soon.
"I think that you should serve him," she says, shifting a bit.
Korosensei blinks.
"Pardon?"
"I think that you should bring out his food. I know this is the students' job, and you can let them do the cooking, but you should be the one who gives it to him."
Korosensei cocks his head. The hue of his face shifting slightly- although not enough to turn into a different color, he says, "Are you sure that's a good idea? I was… thinking I could take more time to think things through. If I bring it out there to him now, there's a pretty good chance he'll throw the meal back in my face."
"Yes," Aguri replies, voice stern. "I'm sure it's a good idea. You agreed to this, Korosensei."
She gives him a serious look, although she tries not to think it's harsh. She reaches out for his hand… squeezes it.
"He wants to see you," she says. "He wouldn't have come if he didn't want to. This is the perfect opportunity. You're surrounded by strangers, so he can't lash out and attack. But he's also here on his own terms… that way he won't feel trapped. You might never get another opportunity like this again, and the more you put it off the more he'll think you resent him."
"Don't worry about what's going to happen," she continues, leaning down to adjust his cap. "I know things went badly last time, but they can only go up from here. The most worthwhile things in life- they can take a couple of tries. That's alright. Try not to worry about it. Just go out there and do your best and tell him that you're proud of him. You know Damien deserves that much."
Korosensei gives pause. Staring, he says "...I did not know you knew that name."
"He told me," Aguri replies. "He's coming to trust. And his relationship with everyone else is improving. So don't be the odd one out. You've got this. I know you do."
Korosensei braces himself, but nods. Taking a deep breath, he admits, "...You're right. Very well, then. I will do as told. I am still scared, but I'm sure he is too. And as long as you're rooting me on… then, well- I know I've got this."
Aguri gives him a smile. Squeezing his hand once more and then leading him over to a seat, they sit down. There, they wait for Damien's meal to be prepared. And when it's done, Korosensei stands.
"Allow me to take that, please," Korosensei says, stopping Kataoka in the doorway. "I'm well aware it's your job to take care of the orders, but just this once I'd like the chance to get to see the person we're serving. I hope that's not too much to ask."
Kataoka looks confused for a split-second, but soon understands as she glances outside. Nodding a bit, she hands the plate over to Korosensei. She wishes him good luck.
And just like that, he's gone. He retreats outside, his cloak flowing behind him. Some part of Aguri is tempted to follow- desperate to know what goes down… but she decides against it. No. She wouldn't dare. This is a moment between just the two of them. And whatever happens next is their choice. She won't intervene.
All she can do is hope that they make the right decision, whatever it is that may be.
He looks a lot taller than he last saw him.
It's funny, because he's not. They last met only a month ago… and even before that, when the boy first betrayed Korosensei, he was already fully grown. He's looking at the same person he was then, with the same empty eyes and the same manufactured smile… and yet something seems different. Why? Is it the way he carries himself, or?
(Perhaps it's just confidence.)
It could be Korosensei's imagination, but he does seem to have more of that. He holds his head high. And although he hasn't spotted his mentor yet, it seems he's got a plan. His fingers are steepled neatly. His smile is careful- uptight.
Admittedly, Korosensei is a little bit scared. He knows he shouldn't be, but he is. While he's in no physical danger, his heart feels like it's teetering on cliff's edge. Whatever it is the boy says to him next… it could very well be the same as last time. And it could be his last chance, too.
He knows he probably deserves that, but some part of him doesn't want it. Not when Aguri's gotten attached to the boy. And not when he feels proud.
He's not sure why he does. He never used to. It's not something he suppressed. He really does think he felt nothing for the boy back when he was Reaper. And yet he does now. Why? Is it that he's finally grown a heart, or that he's just smart enough to pick up on things he'd missed?
(Maybe he sees the kids in him. Or maybe he simply understands how much damage he did with his apathy. He's not sure.)
Either way, he knows he has to approach. If this pride- this something close to caring- is true, then he deserves to hear it. Korosensei had already said it once, but that's not enough. Not when the first time he'd barely even processed who he was.
He takes one step forward. Then another. He doesn't think he'd be doing this if not for Aguri, but he's thankful she's given him strength. It's not just the boy's life she's trying to improve. It's his, too.
('The boy,' He thinks. He's got to stop saying that.)
His name is Damien. He'd almost forgotten, but Aguri had reminded him. He only heard the name once or twice over the course of training his apprentice. He'd shot Damien down any time he shared. More often than not, he was referred to as a protégé - that, or as just 'you.' He didn't get a name. Korosensei hadn't offered him that.
(He reminds himself to say his name loud and clear this time. He's not sure Damien will want to hear it... he's 'Reaper' now, but it's well worth a shot.)
Their eyes lock about a split second before Korosensei arrives. Damien's expression shifts slightly, but he doesn't move. He simply stares Korosensei down- an unreadable glint in his eye.
"And so you came," he says as Korosensei places the plate down in front of him. "Now that's a surprise."
"Of course," Korosensei replies. "I more or less had to. There's still things I'd like to discuss." A pause. "Do you mind if I sit down next to you, or-?"
"Do whatever you'd like," Damien responds, voice curt. "Just don't get too close to me. And don't touch my food."
Korosensei sits across from him. Feeling a bit awkward with no food of his own, and painfully obvious in his poor human disguise, he places one hand over the other. Damien gets to work on his meal, although he doesn't comment on what he thinks. Simply eating… eyes trained on Korosensei, he sits in silence.
"Do you like it?" Korosensei asks. "The students worked very hard on that."
"It's satisfactory," Damien replies. "While I'm not interested in buttering them up any more than you already have, even I can't deny they did a good job. It's got a simple taste to it." His nose wrinkles a bit. "...Homely."
"Indeed," Korosensei replies. He'd gotten the chance to try some of the students' food earlier. They've made good work of utilizing the mountain's natural resources. Their food is rich… savory. And something tells him even Damien likes it more than he's letting on.
"It was nice getting to see you talk with them," he comments. "In a context that was not hostile, I mean."
"Ah," Damien replies. "And so you saw that." He clicks his tongue a bit. "Interesting. They were quite excited to see me, yes." A pause. "I was a tad surprised seeing as how I tried to kill them… how I easily still could, but I guess that's redundant. Of course, they wouldn't be reluctant to see me. They already have a killer for a teacher, after all."
Korosensei shifts a bit. He can tell his apprentice is trying to make him uncomfortable. Still, he refuses to budge. Ashamed as he is of his past, he's not planning to hide from it. He knows very well what he did. And quite frankly his death count is the least of his crimes.
"Yes," he says. "They're most forgiving. Just yesterday, some other assassins showed up as well. Grip, Gastro, and Smog. Have you heard of them?"
"Can't say I have," Reaper retorts. "They must be small names."
"Perhaps," Korosensei replies. He'd heard of at least one or two of them before, but even he must admit they're still kind of underground. They're not infamous. Not in the way he and Damien are, at least.
"And so I've heard you've been talking with Aguri," he says, trying to change the topic. "How has that been? She's really quite sweet, isn't she?"
"She's… interesting," Damien says with a 'tsk.' "I think some part of me still expects her to turn on me, but she's really just like that." A pause. "She's as simple as she comes across."
"Now I'm not sure I'd say that," Korosensei replies. "But, yes. She's as kind as she seems."
"I've given her no reason to keep showing up," Damien muses. "And yet she keeps coming back, anyways. If it weren't for that, I'd ask why she kept hanging around you- but I guess that much is obvious. Even though she deserves far better, she just can't find it in herself to give up."
Korosensei's smile falters a bit. Face going pale blue, he admits, "I know she's much too good for me. But that resilience is something I respect about her most. And although I'm not perfect… I do try my best to keep her happy. She's very dear to me, and I like to think she appreciates the effort."
"I suppose that's slightly more humble of you," Damien replies, taking a sip of his drink. "Two years ago you'd have said 'Of course I'm good enough for her.' That, or 'She's useless. I'll be sure to toss her out when I'm done with this.'"
Korosensei tries not to think about just what he'd thought of Aguri back when he first met her. Sadly, Damien's right. He had seen her as something disposable... naive, average. Oh, how foolish that had been. If only he could have predicted the impact she'd have on his life.
"Yes," he says once again. "I would have. But I do not think that way now. Not anymore." A pause. "Aguri is… the best part of me. I'd never undermine just what she's capable of. As I've said, I've had a lot of time to think things through this past year and a half. Whether you believe it or not, my perspective's changed."
"Yes," Damien replies. "...And so I've been told."
He seems unconvinced. Korosensei can't blame him. All the same, though, he's tired of beating around the bush. Enough of this small talk. He came out here to talk about Damien- not anything else.
"She's kept me updated on how you're doing," he muses; although drawing back a bit when he sees Damien's worried expression. "She hasn't told me anything personal, of course. But she's said you've been well. You have no idea how much of a relief that was to hear."
Damien shifts a bit.
"You could have come by and seen yourself," He says, taking another bite of his food. "Not very kind of you to make her do your dirty work."
"I've done no such thing," Korosensei replies. "And I would have tried, but you know as well as me you weren't ready for that yet. When I said hello again, I wanted it to be on your terms. You hadn't much wanted me around, after all, did you?"
"I suppose not," Damien says with another tired look. "I was still processing what you told me. All of that stupid, unbelievable crap."
It's hard to tell just how much of that he means. He's far too smart to look away- suppress a sigh or bite his lip. He doesn't dare let an inkling of doubt show. And yet… something about his tone seems off. Overeager, almost.
(Maybe it's just Korosensei's imagination.)
"Yes," he says, shaking his head. "I knew you'd need time. Though as unbelievable as it sounds, I did mean what I said- and it's not stupid. You have come a long way since we last met."
"You can say that all you want," Damien retorts. "But it sounds pretty empty without any proof. What is it you're proud of me for, then? I bet you couldn't name a single thing."
"Well," Korosensei replies. "As I told you: I'm proud of you for the assassination attempt you made. I'm not proud you got my students involved, but everything else was more or less flawless. If you hadn't been facing off against me, Aguri, and Karasuma, you'd have made that kill with ease. Isn't that something to be proud of? It's what I taught you to do, after all."
"Perhaps," Damien says with a shrug. "But it still comes bundled with all sorts of baggage. 'I'm almost proud of you,' it sounds like. 'If only you hadn't involved those brats or attacked me. Maybe then things would have been different.'" His nose wrinkles a bit. He stares with disgust. "'At least you did what I taught you to do.'"
Korosensei winces a bit. He's not sure whether it's out of hurt or irritation. Damien is twisting his words, and quickly it makes him tired. He knows he has to hold out… that the boy learned this snark from him- but my god is the distance difficult to deal with.
"You're sensing animosity where there is none," he replies. "I understand why: that is the way I used to interact with you, but none of that is what I meant. I simply cannot praise you for harming those close to me, and you know that. And as for the other details, I am not trying to degrade you. I am simply saying it was a near-impossible force you went up against. You had to be skilled to even get as close as you did."
A pause.
"Nor am I just praising you because you did something relating to assassination. That was the first thing that came to mind and what struck me as what you'd most care about. If you'd like me to praise you in other regards I'm more than happy to. I'd be delighted, in fact."
Another quick silence.
"I didn't come here looking for praise."
"What did you come here for, then?" Korosensei asks. "To argue with me? I think receiving praise is much more effective. And whether you came here to seek it or not, I think you certainly deserve it. Please, allow me. I can point something else out."
Damien's lip twitches, but he doesn't dare interrupt.
"Alongside your admirable skills in assassination, I believe you've become adept at other things as well," Korosensei continues. "For one, you're an adept arbitrator. You're fantastic at getting what you want and you always have been. You know how to play your cards just right. That serves you well. Especially on top of your acting skills."
"Those are things I've always noticed about you since you were young, however. Or at least… should have. There are certain things that are new. Things I'm delighted to see. You seem much more confident, for example. You carry the 'Reaper' name well, and you're inclined to take no wit from me. That is a good thing. You have a sense of self-worth."
"All in all it seems you have grown up in a lot of ways like that since we last met," he continues. "When you betrayed me all those years ago you were little more than a lanky teenager- at barely eighteen. Now you're a man. You know how to take care of yourself. Impressive, coming from a life of following me… and before that: the lap of luxury."
"Another thing I'm proud of you for," he states. "Is your kindness towards Aguri. Of course, in part, just because she deserves it, but also because that's a big step for you. It takes a lot of vulnerability to open up to someone like that, does it not? I would know. But I've gotten the sense that you've come to trust her a lot. That's something you should be proud of."
"I… saw the flowers you sold her on the very first day you met. Quite beautiful. Hydrangeas, yes? They were well taken care of. I was proud to see that as well." A pause. He steeples his hands. "I always did remember you liking gardening. I'm glad I wasn't able to take that away entirely."
Damien looks shocked for just a split second. His expression soon returns neutral… but the furrowed look on his brow doesn't fade.
"I wasn't aware you remembered that," he admits, venom to his tone. "Much less that you'd actually care."
"How could I ever forget?" Korosensei asks, looking away. "You were simply so passionate."
They sit in silence for a moment. But the peace can't last. Crossing one arm over the other, Damien asks, "And so that's it?"
For a minute, Korosensei thinks he's entitled. He just gave a whole speech about why he thought Damien was good enough and he still wants to hear more? But then he reminds himself just how long it took to get through to Karma… months of building up Okuda's self-esteem and arguing with Akari. These things take time. And after being deprived of praise for so long, of course he craves more.
"Honestly…?" Korosensei says, bowing his head. "Yes. That's all I have to share. At least… for now." A pause. "I do not know you well enough to give you the full praise you deserve. I did not pay attention back when we first met. But I do want you to know that there are things in you worth being proud of. And if you'd let me get to know you more, then surely I'd find them."
He feels guilty saying it, but he's not going to lie. And he means those words. He may not be as proud of Damien as he should be- as he deserves, but he'd like to get to that point eventually. It shows on his face. It fades back into blue again, and he looks down at Damien with a desperate glance.
Damien's lip twitches. And for a split second he looks like he's going to retort. But, eventually, his gaze lowers… and he lets out a small sigh.
"I can't believe you're saying that with such a wounded look," he admits, rolling his eyes. "And here I was thinking you'd talk down to me. Instead, you're looking at me like some kind of kicked puppy. You really care what I think, don't you?"
"Of course I do," Korosensei replies. "I'd… like to find peace with you, legitimately. Not only do you deserve that closure, but I do care about your opinion. You're… someone that Aguri cares about. And alongside that, you're one of the people who I treated the worst back when I was a monster. To truly redeem myself- perhaps that necessitates earning your approval."
Damien's brow furrows once more. Under his breath, he murmurs quizzically… seeming to laugh at the words 'monster' and 'redemption,' but he doesn't speak up, at least not right away. And when he does, it's about something else.
"That's a whole lot of power to be putting in my hands, you know."
"I know," Korosensei replies. "But is it really so different from the power I held over you?"
Damien falls silent. Stroking his chin with his hand, he says, "I guess I just don't get why you care about changing at all. That's not like you. You never wanted my opinion or forgiveness before. Why now?"
"I told you," Korosensei reiterates. "Aguri and the class changed my perspecti-"
"Yeah, yeah. You got laid," Damien interrupts. "I know. But is that really enough to change a person's worldview?"
"Well-! Well first of all-" Korosensei squeaks. "I've done no such thing! The relationship between me and Aguri is purely professional, so write that down before you mock me again next time, okay!? I am a proper educator through and through! It's not like I look at… at…-"
He drifts off, burying his face in pink hands.
"You don't need to pretend you don't know what sex is," Damien replies. "I'm not exactly seven anymore. But you're still not answering my question. Why do you care about being seen as 'good?' Why are those people the ones that were able to make you shift? Do you even actually like them, or is there an ulterior motive to this, too? To trying to earn my forgiveness? To teaching at this school? What are you planning?"
"Nothing," Korosensei states, some of his embarrassment fading. He takes one deep breath after the other- prepares to return to normal conversation.
"And so you like it here?" Damien asks. "You're really, true and well, content living like this?"
The judgment seeps from his tone. Although it's unclear just who it's directed at. IS the bitterness towards Aguri? The kids? Or is it just towards him?
('The real you would have looked down on this,' Damien challenges. It's like he thinks Korosensei doesn't already know.)
"Yes," Korosensei says, giving a nod. "I am."
"You're content surrounded by children- something you never even liked, mind you, simply slaving away? You enjoy a job without the thrill of the kill? With practically no reward? How? Why? I can't possibly understand what you see in that. Acting like some kind of babysitter… groveling here before me- there is nothing in it for you."
"I'm well aware," Korosensei replies. "Although I respectfully disagree. There is something in this for me. It's not a traditional reward… I'm not being paid back in fame or fortune, but I'm earning something much more worthwhile. In trying to be better- in learning humility, I've come to be loved. And I couldn't ask for anything more."
It's not a satisfactory answer. Damien's anger only grows. He opens his mouth to speak, but Korosensei beats him to it.
"And yes, I know that's not something I cared about before. But I do now. It's as simple as that. I looked down on the thought of being cared about, but the minute I was, something changed. Now I'd do most anything for it. That's why I'm trying to earn your favor. And that's why I'll always look out for my students."
Damien falls quiet. He still looks angry, but it's in a different way. His hands unball from fists. He doesn't attempt to shout. He simply stares at Korosensei with cold eyes and says "Prove it, then."
Korosensei blinks.
"Pardon?"
"You love them all so much? You're so proud of them?" Damien growls. "Prove it. If you like them, then tell me why. What in them do you actually care about? If you still aren't paying attention, you won't be able to answer me. I'll know that you're using them. And if you're not?" He drifts off- averts his gaze. "Well, that won't happen."
Korosensei can hardly believe it. As much as the accusation stings, it feels like he's been posed with the easiest question in the world. What does he love about them? What doesn't he!? They're his inspiration! His light!
...Slowly, he stands.
"What do I love about my students?" He asks. "What have I paid attention to and noticed? There are many things... perhaps too much to put into words, but having been asked, I will certainly try."
"As a whole, they are brave, intelligent, and all sorts of kind. But that's not what you want to hear, is it? 'Brave…' 'intelligent:' those are words you could use to describe anyone you are trying to compliment- phrases a teacher puts on a students' report card when they're not sure what to say. What I see in my students is so much more than that. And so I won't talk about them collectively. Let's go one by one."
He points a long finger. "Over there is Toka Yada. She is cool, and clever and has dreams of becoming a businesswoman. Her favorite subject is Japanese. What I think I love about her most is her loyalty. She'd do most anything for her family and her friends. When Irina almost left the class, she was one of the students to call her back. She is forgiving, and witty, and quick-thinking. She has a younger brother she loves more than the world."
Another finger.
"That is Manami Okuda. She's a bit shier than Yada, and practically the heart of the class. She thrives at STEM subjects- chemistry, especially, and is always happy to help those around her. I think what I love about her most… what I've grown proud of her for in this past year is the faith that she has in herself. She used to not believe in that- was self-deprecating, even. But now she's confident... and she is so, so brave."
"A little bit behind her is Ryoma Terasaka," he continues, not even missing a beat. "He gave the class some troubles at first… but he certainly came around." He lets out a low laugh- voice a satisfied hum. "He'd do most anything to protect his classmates. And he has. I respect his devotion… his empathy, and his brashness and loud mouth, too. He always says what he's thinking. That serves him well in a class like this."
"Isogai… Takebayashi, Kurahashi, I have more praise than I could possibly formulate for each. Isogai is a natural leader. Takebayashi is quick-witted and smart. Kurahashi loves animals, even the ones most people wouldn't give a second thought. Students like them: like Itona and Nagisa and Akari and everyone else: they are my world. If I were to share every thing I were proud of, I'd no doubt bore your ear off. But I hope that's enough to prove it: that I care. That I am paying attention."
"And it's not just the students who've captured my heart. You want to know that I care about Aguri, too. You want to protect her. So be it, then. What I love about Aguri- about all of my fellow teachers, but especially her- is her resolve. She's been through hell and still come out kind… afforded that kindness to me. That was something I was not capable of: a way that I failed. I became cruel, and she did not.
" In that way, she's much braver than me," he says. "And I look up to her for that. She is soft, and gentle, and thoughtful, and so much more than I could have possibly asked for in a friend. I love the way she laughs... the way her cheeks flush yellow or pink when she's happy. I love the way she still crouches down through doorways- the way her lips just slightly upturn when she smiles. I love her hugs. I love being able to spend life with her after so much time apart. I love the passion she has for the children. I love that she was able to pass that onto me."
He drifts off a bit- lowers his head. "I have… so much love in my heart for this school: for everyone in it. They're not just the ones who gave me a second chance. They are the ones who made me want one in the first place. They are amazing, and clever, and they all shine so brightly. I only wish I could see what it is that they'll do."
And that's that. He has nothing else to say. Well- of course he does, but not to Damien. If that can't get across that he loves them, then he's not sure what can. His voice wells with emotion so much he swears it shakes. He believes every word he's said. And he only hopes that Damien can believe it too.
Truthfully, Damien looks stunned. Like real, honest-to-god, stunned. He's been surprised a few times throughout the conversation, but nothing like this. He stares at Korosensei as finishes up, his mouth legitimately agape.
"You… really do mean it, don't you?" he asks, a slight waver to his tone. "In all my years of knowing you… in seeing you deceive people, I've never once heard you say something like that. You care about them, legitimately."
And for a split-second, Korosensei thinks they've made progress. But Damien soon turns- shoulders hunched, as despite himself, he looks crestfallen.
"Why?" he asks, shocked. "...What are they doing that I wasn't? I saw the best in you too, didn't I? I looked up to you. They're not the first ones in your life to give you credit. I wanted to be there for you, too. Before the students. Before Aguri. And so… why?" A long pause. His expression falters. "...Why didn't you care? Was it something I did wrong?"
Korosensei's not sure whether to feel thankful or terrible. On one hand, he's glad that Damien is finally opening up. But on the other hand, his words come with thorns- and not just directed towards Korosensei. It's clear he resents himself for the vulnerability… face scrunched with frustration. It's like he'll leave any moment- if not done with Korosensei, then with himself.
He knows he can waste no time. Sitting down next to Damien, even as the boy scoots away, he says "Of course not. I'm sorry if… I'm sorry if my praise for the E-Class made you feel bad, but that was not my goal at all. I just wished to prove myself to you: make a case for having changed."
"The… reason I did not change before was simply something so far beyond your control. It's not something you ever could have done. But that doesn't mean you were broken. Aguri… the E-Class- they're no better than you. My circumstances for meeting them were simply different. If I'd met them in the same way I met you… while still having my full power: then there's no doubt I would have abused them as well."
"But I couldn't do that to Aguri," Korosensei says. "Maybe I wanted to: my first thought was 'How can I get out of here, this woman's life be damned,' but it was impossible. Not because I cared about her… not yet, but because there was a glass wall between us. The only reason I didn't hurt Aguri was because I wasn't afforded the chance. And having that option taken away from me… that's what allowed me to grow. She wasn't uniquely special. I mean- she was, but others could have made me feel seen as well. It's just that she was the first person given the chance. You didn't meet me at the right time."
"That's not your fault. None of what happened was." He leans down a bit. "You were always good enough. I was just a terrible person. I needed such specific circumstances- to go through actual torment just to care. But that was beyond your control. And so please… don't say 'What did I do wrong?' Because there was nothing you could have tried. You were already someone worth being proud of back then… and you still are now."
"I'm sorry, Damien," he finishes up. "...I'm the one who should be saying that. I was the one who wasn't good enough. And for that I'm really, truly, sorry."
Then silence. Still hesitating in some way, Damien asks "Did you actually remember that name? Or did she just tell you?"
"I remembered," Korosensei replies. "Aguri simply gave me a much needed reminder."
And like that, Damien buckles. It's not clear on the surface- not for someone who doesn't know where to look, but the cracks start to spread. That above-it-all expression fades from his face. Slowly, his fists unball. And although he doesn't cry- wouldn't dare- the thought of being remembered in and of itself makes him look small.
"Goddamn it," he whispers. "Goddamn it. Do you know just how long I've waited to hear that? I don't want to say- I don't want to think that I've been craving your praise, but just hearing it... how can I doubt that? I know you might be lying. I hate myself for even humoring the idea that you're not. But I grew so used to…- I was resigned to the fact that I'd have to earn glory on my own. I'd given up all hope. Being called special like that- being called good… do you understand what you're waving in front of my face?"
"It's addictive," He continues. "Even having become…- even having accomplished all I have as an individual, I still want to hear it again and again. Why? Why do I look up to you? Is it just some childish part of me? Or…-?"
...He drifts off. Clenches his jaw.
"No. It's more than that. It's ingrained in me. I'm jealous of you. I wanted to surpass you. Hearing from you yourself that I have… it's really something you've never even teased me with before."
"And you'll go much further," Korosensei says, feeling sentimental. He knows that this isn't a happy moment- it's one drenched in tragedy... but even so, his affection for his apprentice shines through. "You haven't just surpassed me. You will continue to fly higher and higher, much like my students will: as one of my students. I am not lying. You have nothing to feel guilty about for craving praise after being deprived of it for so long. And I will tell you it again and again: as much as you need to hear it."
He carefully takes Damien by the shoulder.
"You are enough. You have always been enough."
"And so you mean all of it, then?" Damien asks, tensing a bit. "Every thing you've said… you mean it? I don't know what I would do if you were lying to me again. And so please: swear it on your life, or I'll really never forgive you. I'll hunt you down. I'll hurt all of them. Just tell me that you're telling the truth."
"I mean all of it," Korosensei reiterates. "...Every last bit. I mean that you've become a better assassin than I have: a prodigy worth praising. I mean that you've grown up, and I mean that you were wronged. I mean it: I'm sorry, Damien. I'm happy with this life… with the new path I took, but I never quite forgot about you. I'm sorry things couldn't have gone differently than they did. But it's not too late for you. It never was… and you did not deserve my cruelty."
"You deserved… a much better teacher," he continues. Someone brave. Someone smart. Someone kind. Now that I'm Aguri's pupil… I understand what it means to learn from another person. And even if it's too late for me to make it up to you, I hope I can have some impact on your life. Let you know that… I love all my students: and yes, more than anything, that includes you."
"You are a reminder of my past," he says. "And although at first, that haunted me, that's something I have to live with. Good on you for making me feel guilt. It's now I can truly understand in what ways I've moved on. And I only hope that you can move on with me, too."
"I'm proud of you, Damien," he says once more. "I'm proud of you, Reaper."
...And with that, he wraps him in a hug.
At first, Damien tenses. Some part of him is driven, on instinct, to pull away. But, slowly, his body relaxes. As he realizes this is something that has never happened before… something that feels so different than one of Reaper's curt pats on the head, he pauses. He leans into Korosensei's squishy frame… buries his head in his shoulder. And finally, he cries.
It's not a lot. It's a single tear. Maybe two. But his voice is watery and his hands shake as he squeezes Korosensei tight. He whispers "You finally acknowledged me. Oh my god. You finally acknowledged me!"
And to Korosensei's surprise, he ends up doing most of the crying.
Maybe it's just that he's sensitive now, but it feels like a weight has lifted. Something that was bothering him for so long…- he's finally been given the chance to make amends. And to think that he almost passed up this opportunity! He was so scared- so petrified, but now living in the moment he can't help but think that never seeing Damien again would have been so much worse. He's… relieved that he was able to open up. He doesn't even know what he'll say to Aguri later when he thanks her for the chance.
She… allowed him to be brave. She… encouraged him to just try. And what has it netted him? This!?
He leans back into Damien's embrace. Face a deep blue, and fat tears streaming down his face, he gives the boy a squeeze. Shaking his head and hiccuping, he says "About time. Isn't it?"
A nod.
"...And here I was thinking it'd never happen."
After that, things are a bit of a blur. They hug for what feels like forever, but eventually Damien is the one to pull away. As much as he'd like to accept that warmth- and as much as he is, in some regard, all good things need to come to an end. He thanks Korosensei genuinely for the kind words, but admits that it's time he should probably head out. He's got a lot to process, after all.
Korosensei just hopes that his processing will go differently from last time. Now that the storm's passed, he's got some good information to digest.
"I'm sad to see you go," he admits. "...But I understand. I'll be seeing you again, though, yes?"
"I think so," Damien replies. "Like I said: I still feel a little weird about all this, and things probably won't go back to normal, but…" a pause. "This feels good. I want to hear more kind words from you, even if it's stupid, or a little too late."
"It's not stupid," Korosensei reassures. "Late, yes: but not stupid. It's only natural to place some of your self-worth in other people. You've gotten as far as you could on your own, and you're a confident young man, but it's time you earn some reward for that. Don't worry. I'll praise you as many times as you need."
"And as for… normal, that's alright." He shakes his head. "There never was going to be a normal between us. It's not like we'll go back to working together. We're walking two different paths. I just hope that you finally understand I approve of yours… and that while I don't expect you to forgive me, that this can be a new start... for the both of us. And especially how you've been treated."
A nod. Damien gives him a serious look.
"I'll be holding you to that," he says firmly. "You've underestimated my capabilities once before. If things go awry, then I can still ruin things for you. I hope you understand that."
"More than anything," Korosensei replies. "And while I'd like to think things won't come to that, it's a good reminder." A pause. "...Not that it'd matter much, anyways. Whether you had something to hold over my head or not, you deserve to be treated with the utmost care."
"Mmm," Damien replies. And with that, he stands. He still hasn't finished his meal, but Korosensei doesn't berate him for it. Something tells him that's not what he came here for, anyways.
"I'll be checking up on you," he says. "...As long as you're okay with that, I mean. Aguri visits you often, yes? Maybe I'll try and join in. I'd love to hear all about what you're doing… what techniques you've invented and what you've made flourish. I'm already a plenty busy man, of course, but… I can make time for you."
"And feel free to stop by the classroom at any time. You'll be expected to behave peacefully, of course, but… as long as the children consent, you're welcome." A sideways glance. "And something tells me they will. You're already talk of the town."
"I'll think about it," Damien replies. "One thing at a time, yeah?"
"Yeah," Korosensei replies with a nod. "One thing at a time. I'll be seeing you soon. And… I'm proud of you, alright?"
"Yeah," Damien says. "And so I've been told."
And just like that, he's gone. Korosensei sits there watching as he descends over the crest of the hill and disappears. Slowly more people swarm in- still desperate for the E-Class's cuisine, but he doesn't stand. Not yet.
He… feels hopeful, he thinks. There are probably ways he could have gone about that better, but things feel so much lighter than before. Damien and him… might really have a chance of having a relationship. And while that doesn't absolve the sins weighing on his soul, it makes him hold himself higher.
The things he's done… he thought they could never be mended. And in many ways, they can't. There are lives he's taken in ways he can't take back… people he's hurt with his apathy and callousness. Even Aguri was harmed by his behavior, and there's no doubt that the damage to her and Damien both will linger.
But… irreparable completely doesn't mean completely irreparable. He may not be able to fix many of his mistakes- even just in the eyes of individual people. But that doesn't mean he can't do something. That doesn't mean he can't try.
And for once… his bravery's been rewarded.
Because he remembers the warm feel of Damien's tears. And watching the boy go, he can't help but think he'll cry at home, too. Hopefully, this time, Korosensei's made him cry in a good way. Lord knows Korosensei's made him feel hopeless and alone enough as is.
'Yes,' he thinks, finally standing. 'I meant it. I'm proud of him. I'm proud of the both of us, in fact.'
Aguri's waiting for him in the doorway. Staring at him with wide eyes, she asks, "Did you do it? I saw you hug him."
"Yes," Korosensei says with a nod. "I believe I've done it." A pause. "Maybe not fixed our relationship completely… but reiterated that I'm proud of him. And told him that I'm so, so sorry."
She doesn't waste another moment. Wrapping him in her arms, she buries her face in his shoulder and squeezes him tight. She practically lifts him up off of the ground… giving a smile and a laugh.
"I knew you could do it," she says. "And here you were acting all afraid!"
"Well," Korosensei says. "It was most intimidating! But I did it, yes."
Slowly, his gaze lowers.
"...And I'm happy I did."
He treasures the touch. Usually, they don't interact like this. He's the one who placed that boundary there, but he's still thankful. He… really was anxious. And sure, things have resolved, but that doesn't mean that her affection is any less encouraging.
She's getting better, he thinks. Maybe it's just his imagination, but…-
No. She deserves more credit than that. She's definitely getting better. Three months ago Aguri barely had the will to confront him, much less tell him he had to make amends with someone from his past. Her holding him to this… it's a sign of growth. And that's a relief. Maybe soon they can have a lot more moments like this.
...Just not yet. Korosensei knows not to push his luck. And as sweet as the hug is, the students are fast approaching. The last thing he needs to do right now is dissolve into a puddle of flustered goo. With the whole 'estranged son' thing they're already going to make fun of him enough as is.
For now, he should just acknowledge that he's thankful for that push… thankful for Aguri. And that regardless of wherever their relationship goes next, he really meant it when he said she was the best part of him. He loves her. And, thankfully, she's opened him up to loving a whole lot of others as well.
Quickly, he pulls away. And like the swarm of piranhas they are, the kids are upon him.
"How'd it go!?" They ask.
"Did he try and shoot you again?"
"He left so fast! Did you see he didn't even finish his meal?"
"Yes," Korosensei replies. "I saw. But things went well, and thankfully he did not shoot me. That's behavior I only want to see from twenty-eight, you know."
"We know," the class groans.
"And so you managed to make amends?" Kurahashi asks, leaning forward. "He actually forgave you?"
"I'm not sure about amends," Korosensei replies. "In some ways, the past will never be behind us. But he's ready to look towards the future, yes. And I'm prepared to be the best person I can."
"Good," Kataoka replies. "I dunno what we'd do if you were in the doghouse. We're falling behind on ingredients, you know."
"Yeah. You took pretty damn long with your little heart to heart," Nakamura adds on. "We're almost entirely out of mushrooms and pine nuts. Isogai's having a stroke in the kitchen."
"Might want to get on that, teach. Just gotta promise us you're not gonna ditch us after leaving to get a carton of milk, too."
"W- wha!?" Korosensei asks, taking a second to process what they're even talking about. But as they glance out the window, it clicks. They're still on Damien, it seems. And they're saying he…-
"I did no such thing!" he cries, shame washing over him. "I was not a deadbeat dad to my apprentice, and I'd never be one to you! Sure, I did a pretty flimsy job, and I did disappear, but that wasn't my fault! In fact… he made that choice! It's less like I left to get a carton of milk and vanished, and more like I left to get a carton of milk and he then locked me out!"
Gosh darn it. He knew this was coming! Piranhas! Sharks! The whole lot of them! And after everything he's done for them… trying so hard to be the ideal teacher!
...At least they'll get along swimmingly with Damien, it seems.
He wastes no time. Eager to get himself away from their jabs and jeers, he scrambles out the door. "I think you're right!" He cries. "It really is time I go and gather some mushrooms. Okay! Bye! Seeya!"
They know the real reason he departs. But if any of them have an issue with it, they don't voice it. They're content, he supposes… as long as he's their little lackey.
Thankfully, Korosensei doesn't mind too much. He's embarrassed, yes… but he supposes this is just how working with kids is. He's long since grown used to it. And even if the students treat him like a laughingstock, he knows they care, too, deep down. This is just how they show it.
(How they say 'we've seen the real you, but we also don't mind.')
Ultimately, he doesn't get to end up thanking Aguri for what she did for him. At least not today. But as he returns to the school, ingredients in hand, and she gives him a bright smile, it reiterates what he was already pretty sure of.
...Yeah. He thinks she already knows.
Ultimately, the E-Class loses the competition. Aguri is surprised… they did such a good job, but they run out of ingredients halfway through the day. Even scouring the mountain as much as they can, they realize there's not enough natural resources to sustain their massive consumer base. And as such, not wanting to strip the mountain clean, they close down shop. They're ashamed to do so, but it's better than what would happen if they pursued the alternative.
...And hey, thankfully they don't do that bad. When the results roll in at the end of the day they end up scoring third place. Only the A-Class and the much older high schoolers beat them out. Not too bad for a class of misfits, huh?
The kids seem proud of what they've accomplished. Sure, they didn't win, but they still became talk of the town. And something tells Aguri it was never even really about winning, anyways. It was about proving themselves to the people around them… and they most certainly did!
It feels like everyone they'd known had shown up. Damien… the island assassins, that weird Yuuji kid, and even some of the main campus kids! Regardless of how the class is perceived, everyone wanted to stop by and see what they had accomplished. And to her surprise, Aguri realizes that she doesn't think the class is that negatively perceived at all anymore.
Maybe it's just her getting her hopes up- she's not always smart, but the gossip has seemed to have died down. Now the rest of the student body doesn't look at the E-Class with disgust. They look at them with respect. She even swore she heard whispers about whether or not being in the E-Class would be fun!
'Good,' she thinks, chest filled with pride. About time they came around. About time they saw what she saw in these children all of this time.
...Just like Korosensei's finally seen what she saw in Damien.
Third place or not, she thinks a change in perspective is all this festival really had to offer to make itself worthwhile.
