Disclaimer: I own nothing
A/N: I really didn't expect this fic to be received so well… and as I promised, here is Izuku's POV. I'm not going to lie; I really struggle writing from Izuku's perspective. Either way, please enjoy!
Summary: Just as he was about to give up on ever having a family, Toshinori begins to find mating gifts left outside his new cove. Thrilled and hesitant about his mysterious suitor, he cautiously allows himself to be courted. If only the interested mer would show himself. DekuMight, Mermaid AU, Mpreg, Courting Rituals, Insecure All Might, Confident Izuku, Fluff, Protectiveness
Warnings
AU - Merfolk
Animalistic Behaviour
Mpreg
Belonging
II. Izuku
Life was fairly repetitive for Izuku. He would patrol his area, play fight with Kaachan, catch up with Ochako and check in with his mother. Not necessarily in that order, but more or less that was his daily routine for the past couple of years. Occasionally, Iida and Todoroki would drop by; and they would explore the deeper waters together, but being sires with territories to maintain they couldn't leave their homes for long. Perhaps if Kaachan wasn't so much of a jerk, they could've been friends as his territory bordered Izuku's. However, the blonde mershark had some issue with him; for every time they met, it would always end up in a fight. Not that Izuku was that concerned about it, he could tell the other mer wasn't serious about the little skirmishes they had in the communal pod – but something was bothering his podmate (whatever it was, Izuku would appreciate if the sea urchin could sort it out soon. He was grateful for the exercise and practice, but he'd like to visit his mother without any of the bruises or bites they resulted in).
Unlike shallow water mers, who all lived their lives in a single large pod; mershark sires each had their own territory. Each of these territories would surround a centre area which was considered the communal pod. The communal pod was a shared space, in which they would gather for the mating season. Usually the sires would spar against each other over a particular dam, but it wasn't uncommon to see dams fight each other over a sire. After all, in mershark culture, battle prowess was the most desirable trait. The more scars one had the more attractive they were – the larger they were the higher the praise, for to be able to survive such an attack and still fight was admirable quality.
Apart from its mating battle ground, the communal pod also served as a place for orphaned pups, even aging or widowed mersharks. After the death of his father and Izuku taking over the territory, his mother had moved to the communal pod along with Kaachan's parents. Usually once a mershark sire comes of age they would either take over their father's territory or look for a new area to settle down in. Dams would either remain with their family or choose to live in the communal pod until they matured; as the latter gave them greater chances of finding a mate. There were also instances where pregnant dams would choose to birth their pups in the communal pod, especially if their mate wasn't present – it was the most secure location after all.
However, his run-ins with Kaachan were reducing anyway as his visits to the communal pod were declining. Much as he adored his mother, Izuku's patience for her was beginning to stretch thin. Especially considering mating season was around the corner, and he still hadn't settled down on a dam. Despite attending the sparring sessions to display his skills, Izuku wasn't really interested in any of the dams present. Sure, Ochako was a lovely mershark and they would make a good pair; but something didn't sit quite right with him - there was something missing. Regardless, Izuku had decided to give the relationship time, which was why he would drop into her sire's territory now and then; but so far, nothing developed beyond a deep friendship.
It was in this half attentive state he was conducting his routine patrols of his area. Izuku rubbed his scent against rocks and reefs to mark the boundary, and chase away any predators lurking in his waters. During yet another clearing of dead coral reef, the direction of the current changed and Izuku promptly dropped the rock he was holding in favour of the scenting the water. It was a dam, but not any of the dams he had encountered before. Swimming in the direction of the scent, Izuku studied the scent a little further as it grew stronger the closer he was to the source. The scent profile wasn't of a mershark, as Izuku noticed it was lighter compared to their heavier scents. However, what caught his attention was the sheer sadness and yearning in the scent, it almost overpowered the notes of sickness and injury.
Masking his presence and hiding among the shadows of the rocks, Izuku stealthily approached the location where the dam's scent was strongest.
He was right – it was coastal mer, and from the looks of it they were unnaturally thin. Everything about the mer's appearance screamed neglect; as if, the dam was kept aside to die. Izuku frowned, from what he heard from the elders in his shiver was that coastal mers were far more social than they were. That they would spend their entire life in a single large pod (Izuku's couldn't imagine that happening with mersharks - Kaachan and his mother alone would have killed each other by now if that was the case). Hence, it didn't make sense for this coastal mer to be out here alone in such a state.
Waiting for the mer to reappear from the alcove in the rock facing, Izuku took in the dam's appearance as the mer swam a little closer towards him. For a coastal mer, the dam was quite large. If not for the frills and scales, he would have assumed the mer belonged to the whale merfolk. They usually had this sort of stature and colouring. Watching them forage for food, he spied on the scar that nearly covered the mer's entire left side. It wasn't difficult to deduce that injury must have caused the sickly starved physique – Izuku personally witnessed mersharks succumb to injuries such as that, it was a miracle the dam was still alive let alone this active. Which brought him to his other question, of how the dam received such an injury in the first place. From what he knew of coastal merfolk culture was that the dams would remain protected within the pod, whilst the sires fought to defend their large communal nest.
Regardless he didn't linger on that train of thought for long. Apart from sickness souring the dam's scent, Izuku could easily pick out sadness. Compared to their shallow-water cousins who had frills to express themselves, mersharks would use their scent to communicate their moods and feelings. Although they had sharper eyesight in the darker water's, it was still difficult to read one's feelings from their expression – hence the use of their heightened sense of smell and scents to express themselves. Focusing on the sadness, Izuku could pick out the notes of yearning and loneliness.
He initially thought the mer was simply lost from his pod, as coastal mers unlike shark mers preferred living in large groups. Izuku was about to leave his hiding spot to guide the mer back to his home, but once he noticed the dam was actually cleaning and building a new nest in his territory; made him think otherwise. Usually a dam would only build their nest in the sire's territory post mating, and he wasn't all that familiar with coastal mers mating rituals to gauge if this was normal or not. However, he did know that the shallow water types focused heavily on their physical appearance for courtship; and seeing this dam's appearance and the lack of a mating mark despite their age, indicated something else.
Izuku abhorred this title, but he was willing to bet this mer was considered a leftover dam.
His mother had briefly explained what it implied, when he had heard some of the younger dams in the communal pod use it to address the older dams who hadn't mated, especially during the dam fights. Although, the sire spars were more brutal; the trash talking done by the dams made his skin crawl. His mother was a prime example of this, despite being the sweetest and most gentle mershark in their shiver – he had seen her verbal rip apart mersharks twice her size (not to mention her small stature allowing her to move faster as she visibly swiftly tore into her opponent with her claws).
The mer's colouring was also darker compared to the coastal types he had seen. From the little he had seen of the shallow water types, the carrier mers were smaller and more petite. It was obvious this coastal mer's large stature and appearance had resulted in the dam not being courted. Izuku was often baffled by the shallow water types, but it made sense their environment made them extremely superficial. In the deeper ocean being brightly coloured and looks didn't help you – being strong and fast did. The lack of predators in the upper waters made sense for battle prowess being considered unnecessary.
The irony of the situation was if this dam was a mershark, he would have been spoilt for choice. The emaciated form could easily be remedied with constant supply of quality food and rest – something a sire was perfect for. His scar would only add to their appeal as for them it showcased strength, and usually larger the dam implied stronger the pups. Estimating the age, Izuku would place the mer in the latter end of their fertile period and that alone would discourage any sire. However, he could faintly pick out the scent of fertility under all the sickness and sadness – and the little that he scented smelt perfect. Izuku finally realised why Ochako's scent never really clicked with him; for he had been waiting for this mer in front of him.
From his perspective, this dam was a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered; and it seems the seas had decided to bless Izuku with making the mer build their nest in his territory.
Hearing the heart wrenching warble and clicking emanate from the mer as they touched their neck and stomach, Izuku made up his mind.
He was going to court this mer.
X.
The courtship was at best interesting, and at worse nerve wracking.
Izuku opted to watch the dam for a couple more days, learning their preferences and behaviour. Until one day the mer began clicking in his direction. It had taken Izuku by surprise as he was certain he'd hidden his presence and scent. The mershark noted that despite the mer being larger than average; the dam was remarkably swift, and precise in his movements. Seeing them hunt was also enlightening as it showcased skills Izuku would have associated with the coastal mer sires. Coupled with the carrier's ability to pick him out in the darkness, proved that the dam was trained in combat.
He nearly rumbled with pleasure – this mer couldn't be any more perfect.
Deciding that he had observed enough, Izuku began the courtship. Izuku reached out to the elders in the communal pod about the courtship rituals of coastal mers. His mother raised an eyebrow at the question, but answered him regardless. Fortunately, from what he was told, there was little difference from mershark culture – only stylistic choices, such as using scales instead of teeth for the courting necklace.
Beginning from placing colourful stones and shells, he waited for the mer to take them inside. Izuku's heart hammered loudly as he watched the dam shift through the pile, carefully taking his time to inspect each object. Hearing them chirp and click in his direction confused Izuku as for mersharks dam would respond by either taking the gift inside their nest as indication of acceptance or leave them outside to convey rejection. He briefly contemplated if this was different in coastal mer courtship, but continued to remain silent and hidden. Although, he nearly swam out when he smelt the brief happy hopeful scent change back to its sad and sickly state. Thankfully, the dam took the gift into his cove which eased Izuku's fears.
Providing the mer with food was strangely fulfilling. Seeing their frills flutter with obvious delight as the dam consumed the meal effortlessly made him smile. Especially the sound of pure elation in that trill was completely endearing to him. Izuku had seen the mer struggle to eat seaweed and fish in this particular area, hence taking additional care in preparing the generous serving of food in a way the dam could eat was worth it. If Izuku were to fill in that frame, the dam would require large and consistent provision. It warmed him to listen to the chirps and clicks the dam release as they ate – the mer was entirely too precious not to deserve the best treatment he could provide.
Over the weeks, Izuku took pride in witnessing the improving appearance of the mer. Along with increased glistening of scales and shine in their hair, he noticed the scent of sickness and sadness had begun to fade away as well. Allowing the mer's mature fertile scent to flow through unhindered – enticing Izuku as it steadily whittled down on his patience. With the dam's constant chittering in his direction, he knew his presence was a welcomed one. However, something in his gut told him to wait. With the distance closing in between them, Izuku noticed the scar on the mer's side was unusual. He'd seen similar injuries caused by extremely brutal fights between mersharks, specifically those that required one of the participants to die. Their shiver frowned upon such archaic behaviour, but Izuku knew other shivers followed the old ways. It also didn't help how skittish the dam seemed, clearly there was something about that injury he should be aware of.
Regardless, their relationship continued and Izuku decided it was time to gift the dam with a courting necklace. If the mer were to place it around their neck as acceptance, he would formally introduce himself. Taking into consideration the difference in culture, something told Izuku the dam wouldn't quite appreciate having his teeth in the necklace. As a result, he ended up spending a great deal of time searching for pearls that matched the hue of his tail. Black pearls were notoriously difficult to find and thankfully for his claws easy to pry apart. However, finding equally sized pearls in the same shade of inky green made it even worse; but as it was for his future mate, Izuku would gladly do it multiple times over.
Hearing the dam chirp at him, clicking out a request and explanation that coastal mer sires would place the necklace around the dam's neck; made his heart lurch in relief and joy. Izuku was about to leave his hiding place, when he spotted a bullshark fly through the water towards the dam. Snarling at the threat to his future mate, Izuku immediately swam to protect the mer. Not that he was surprised to see the carrier expertly dodge the attack, clearly the mer knew how to fight; but it didn't appease the anger he held towards the mammal. Quickly teaching the shark a lesson, Izuku returned his attention towards the coastal mer; who was now hidden in the kelp entrance, watching him.
Approaching the mer, Izuku clicked out softly – asking if the mer was alright or hurt. Mindful to keep his distance, he waited for the dam to finish assessing him as he took note of the apprehension in the mer's scent. It was expected as the carrier clearly witnessed a ruthless fight a few minutes ago (Izuku vows to finish off that bullshark for ruining his progress if he ever finds it again). After what seemed like an eternity, Izuku heard the mer hesitantly chirp out his response – reassuring the mershark he was alright and thanking him for the rescue.
Quietly he chittered out his next question as he gestured at the necklace, and his heart promptly shattered at the sight of the dam sinking back into the kelp and shaking of his head. However, Izuku was entirely confused as he could smell the want in their scent. The dam wanted this courtship, but there was underlying note of fear. He couldn't understand why the costal mer would be afraid of him – could it be due to the fight with bullshark? If so, he was defiantly hunting that mammal down. Although, given the dam was trained in fighting, such instances shouldn't have unsettled him to this degree. It was heartbreaking and baffling at the same time.
Not wanting to make the coastal mer uncomfortable any further, Izuku gathered the pearl necklace and was about to leave heavyhearted; when he heard the dam let out a low trill. Turning his head back, Izuku listened to the explanation the mer provided, and it took every shred of self-control to keep his anger in check. Although the dam had explained it as an attack, Izuku had a feeling it was more of a forceful mating from that particular mershark. It was rare for such mers to leave their shiver and travel to the coast to find a mate, but given how attractive and desirable this dam was – Izuku could understand why.
Asking about that particular mershark, Izuku was pleased to hear the dam had effectively dealt with them. Though, he himself would have loved to have a turn as well. Praising the dam, Izuku's lips quirked a bit when noticed the obvious delight the mer displayed at the compliment. He would praise this dam daily if that was the expression on their face. The mood sobered once more as the carrier warbled out his inability to participate with mershark courtship, and Izuku became even more confused.
The expression must have shown on his face as the dam elaborated about aggressive mating rituals. Izuku remembered being completely stunned before letting out a laugh, partially due to how outdated the information was; but mostly due to how misinformed coastal mers were about their kind. Yes, their kind was aggressive and forceful; some shivers still followed the old customs, but the majority of the mer sharks had moved on from their lesser animalistic tendencies. Clarifying and correcting the information, Izuku let out an amused huff at the apprehensive look on the mer's face – this was something he would have to prove through actions not words.
Not that he minded, his heart was lighter. He now understood why the mer rejected him, and despite all that he was still going to continue this courtship. Izuku could smell the desire in the dam's scent – he just needed to earn the mer's trust and prove he wasn't an aggressive mate. Just before he left, Izuku asked for the coastal mer's name before giving his own. Listening attentively to the unique sequence of chirps and whistles, he repeats them carefully.
'Toshinori.'
X.
The following days weren't any different, apart from Izuku now remaining in the open. He could smell the confusion in Toshinori's scent as the dam would occasionally glance in his direction. The mer had asked why he still continued to provide for him and Izuku casually brushed the question away as simply looking after the dams in his area (the coastal mer was the only dam in his area, so it wasn't a complete lie). With every passing week, Izuku could smell the fertility increase as the dam's scent as it became riper and heavier. He wasn't quite sure if Toshinori himself was aware of his recovering ability to carry, but from how slowly the progress was being made; Izuku was willing to bet the mer wasn't aware.
Despite Toshinori's rejection, Izuku would scent the growing attraction towards him in the dam's scent. Gradually he noticed the weariness and fear reduce as they interacted, and at times he would catch the mer staring in at him before averting their gaze with an embarrassed flitter of their frills. Izuku would usually rumble to himself, as the reaction was undeniably adorable to see. This behaviour was especially noticeable when Izuku introduced Toshinori to Ochako. The mer's scent and expression would sour slightly every time the female dam would appear in his area (it was cute to see Toshinori sulk in his pod, and Izuku knew addressing the topic would only cause the older carrier to become defensive).
Word had spread among his shiver that he was courting a coastal mer; which was why Ochako had paid him a visit. Although she had initially been upset about Izuku choosing Toshinori over her; the mershark dam quickly came around as she too confessed about feeling the same. Funnily enough, during one of their discussions; Izuku found out that he wasn't the only one visiting her – the other sire happened to be Kaachan. Izuku raised his eyebrows at her when she told him, for it cleared some of the confusion he had regarding his childhood friend. It was now clear to him that the fish brain was jealous of him courting Ochako, which resulted in Izuku being dragged into a fight every time he visited his mother – if only the idiot asked him, Izuku would have stepped away (but knowing Kaachan, the mershark would have considered that as a sign of weakness – what a brainless starfish).
Telling Ochako this bit of information sent the mershark dam into a fit of giggles, but underneath the amusement Izuku could smell how pleased she was about it. Wishing her luck on the courtship and providing some insight into Kaachan's hot tempered nature, she swam closer to embrace him as thanks. However, before she could even touch him, Izuku felt his body seize at the sound of piercing keen. Toshinori had never made such a call before, and immediately he rushed towards the coastal mer's cove. Smelling the scent of irritation and jealousy melt into a mixture of satisfaction and pleased embarrassment, Izuku suppresses a smile. Listening to their ask of more food, Izuku smirks inwardly – He could scent the bristle of a lie in that request. It wasn't that long ago he'd brought the dam his meal and despite the improving appetite, Toshinori couldn't be hungry this soon. Regardless he bid his farewell to Ochako and went to find more food for his future mate.
Thumbing the pearl necklace now woven around his wrist, Izuku knew it wouldn't be long before the dam would change their mind and accept his proposal. All he had to do was wait.
And he didn't have to wait long either.
For it was only a few weeks after, did currents carry the scent of Toshinori's emerging heat - the coastal mer had just entered his mating period. Making his way to the entrance he clicked at the dam, gently calling them out. There were a few heart stopping moments before he saw the blonde mer emerge from the cove and drift towards him. They remained silent for a few more seconds before Izuku chittered – repeating the same question he had asked previously. Hearing that chirp of agreement, made the sire thrum with joy. If he had frills he would have fluttered them wide to show how incredibly happy he was at the dam's answer. Instead he opted for a single bright smile as he unwound the necklace around his wrist. Swimming closer and placing the pearl chain around Toshinori's neck sent a wave of satisfaction through him.
Gently reaching out, Izuku pulled the mer into his arms as he began their mating dance. Unlike the courtship dances which were to display his skills and abilities (he purposely threw in the more complicated manoeuvres to impress the Toshinori), mershark mating dances were slow and sensual. Allowing the haze of the heat and his touch to sooth the dam into a pliant state, he began to lavish the coastal mer with attention. Once he felt Toshinori relax completely in his arms, Izuku bit down on the dam's neck and followed with entering the mer's opening. Clearly Toshinori hadn't experienced this before as Izuku heard the soft whimper and tensing of their frame. Crooning softly into the dam's ear, Izuku began praising the mer – promising the future Toshinori desired so desperately.
It was both sweet and sad to watch how careful Toshinori was with his pregnancy (it was obvious how much the dam had desired this outcome). Izuku would be lying if he claimed he wasn't overprotective as well. There was something primal and satisfying watching the mer's lithe form expand as they grew heavy with their offspring. Izuku had been concerned about the heat not resulting in a positive outcome as he knew the news would only crush his mate; but once he smelt the change in Toshinori's scent, he had discreetly let out a sigh in relief before sharing the news. As they approached the birthing day, Izuku contemplated what kind their offspring would be. From the size of the belly, he guessed it was mostly likely a single mershark pup as he knew coastal mers tend to have litters. Not that he didn't desire a large family – but a single pup would be easier on Toshinori to birth and care for as their first.
Birth itself wasn't eventful, although Izuku would have appreciated it if his mother had been there. It wasn't strange for a dam to give birth outside in their mate's territory, but usually the first birth would always be in the company of the older dams in the communal pod. The experienced dams would reassure the new mother through the process, but noting the lack of panic or apprehension in Toshinori's scent eased Izuku as well. Either way Izuku had watched his mother aid other dams in their shiver, so he wouldn't be completely useless if his assistance was required by his mate.
Never before had Izuku felt such pride hearing the tiny sharp squeaks of their pup as they entered the world. Although he was dying to reach out for the baby mer, the sire kept his distance. Dams were notorious for their protective instincts, even snapping at their own mates if they felt the slightest bit of threat from them. He initially opted to remain by the entrance until mother and child had bonded, but when Izuku noticed the scent of joy and happiness suddenly turned sour with sadness and self-loathing; he immediately approached Toshinori. Learning the cause of the sudden change in the dam's emotions, Izuku patiently clicked out an explanation which soothed the mer into a sleep while their pup continued to nurse
X.
A few months had passed, and their pup was only beginning to leave Toshinori's side to explore the area outside their cove. Izuku allowed his mate to pamper the pup as usually sires would only involve themselves once the pup had fully weaned from their mother. He would have to teach the pup the ways to fight and hunt; but seeing how attached his mate was being with the child, Izuku didn't know how welcoming Toshinori would be to the idea. He knew the dam would reluctantly allow him to take over the child's education, but it wouldn't be a painless affair.
Perched upon his usual rock, Izuku kept guard over the area as mother and child wandered around the various fauna. Seeing the baby mershark inspect every coral and ask Toshinori what each and every new item was, caused Izuku to smile softly. They both had struggled in searching for a suitable name for their pup, but Izuku allowed Toshinori to be the one to decide. After mulling on it for some time, the coastal mer had suggested the name Eri; which Izuku immediately fell in love with. From the way the pup was maturing, Izuku informed the dam the pup would be female (hence the feminine name). However, their role would come later on.
Suddenly a familiar scent drifted towards him, and Eri who had a sharkmer's sense of smell, immediately swam to her mother; alerting Toshinori of the new presence. However, they remained out in the open near the kelp entrance as Izuku began chittering amicably towards the newcomer's presence. Gradually emerging from the darkness, he clicked happily at the sharkmer; who in turn returned the greeting warmly. The friendliness in their communication and the similarities between the Izuku and the mer eased Toshinori, as the dam began to put two and two together.
It was Izuku's mother, Inko, who had just arrived in their area.
Izuku was surprised to see his mother outside the communal pod, as she claimed the territory reminded her too much of his father. However, given that his visits had significantly declined since Toshinori's pregnancy was confirmed; it made sense for her to check in on him. Despite the initial stiffness, Izuku introduced Toshinori to his mother; and her soothing gentle nature relaxed him instantly. After trilling at her granddaughter and congratulating their successful mating, his mother advised they should visit the communal pod and introduce his new family to their shiver.
Izuku understood why she suggested it, as it would familiarise Toshinori to mershark culture; and in the event something were to happen to him the dam would have a support system to fall upon. Izuku hadn't asked about Toshinori's birth pod, and although he spoke fondly of his time there; the mershark could pick on the lack of desire to return. Izuku had planned to take his mate a little later to the communal pod after Toshinori became comfortable with the thought of sharing Eri. Pups were an uncommon sight and mershark dams would usually lavish every pup with attention; so, Izuku wasn't sure if his mate would welcome other dams reaching out for their offspring. However, seeing how comfortable the mer was with his mother coddling the pup made him reconsider. Having his mother present would also act as a buffer and she would be able to explain mershark behaviour with a dam's perspective, which would benefit his mate.
Clicking and chittering, he suggested to Toshinori about joining his mother's return to the communal pod; and after seeing the mer contemplate the idea for a moment, his heart lightened when Toshinori chirped in agreement. With that they began heading towards the centre area. Eri would occasionally swim alongside them; but the pup was still young, so she would alternate between swimming and being carried in either of her parent's arms. Izuku remained silent during the trip as he listened in on the conversation between his mate and mother.
Most of the discussion was reiteration of what Toshinori had told Izuku about his past, and his mother had more or less replied the way Izuku had when he learnt about the mer's background. Having similar answers must have given their responses some credibility, as Toshinori found it difficult to believe when Izuku claimed he was considered extremely attractive in mershark terms. Part of him couldn't wait to see the mer's expression when he saw the dam spars and the sheer lack of unblemished bodies.
Once they arrived at the communal pod, they were warmly welcomed by the older mersharks. Kaachan's sire and dam were among the first to greet them, and had cooed in Eri's direction. Izuku partially feared the pup's eyes would have fallen out at how wide they were – clearly enamoured by her new surroundings and mers. However, they all had kept their distance with a pointed look from Inko. His mother was a master of non-verbal communication. Gradually, the other mersharks in the pod began approaching them and Izuku stifled an amused chitter as he saw Toshiniori being baffled by the compliments. He had seen his mate take in the scars litter indiscriminately over both sires and dams alike, and hearing the other dams voice their envy and respect over his form had clearly rendered the coastal mer speechless.
It wasn't long till Kaachan and Ochako arrived, as word must have passed about Izuku's arrival to the communal pod with his mate and child. Spotting the fresh mating mark on the dam's neck, Izuku sent out a trill of congratulations; to which his childhood friend glared fiercely in return, but Izuku can pick out the pride and satisfaction in Kaachan's scent. Despite their initial dislike of each other, Toshinori and Ochako exchanged greeting harmoniously. Much as he had been mortified by being the topic of discussion, it was heartwarming to see them bond as they exchanged stories.
His observations were interrupted when he sensed an attack to his side. Dodging the claws, Izuku twisted his body and retaliated swiftly with a sharp flick of his tail. Putting space between him and the other mer, Izuku focused on who had attacked him – it wasn't surprising to see Kaachan. The shark mer clicked and whistled roughly, asking if he was ready for a friendly fight. Izuku had sort of missed their regular sparring sessions and his muscles were aching for a good match. Chirping in agreement, they launched at each other again.
It wasn't long before they both wound up in a stalemate. Previously, Izuku would throw the match as he didn't have any interest in the fight; but now with his mate and child watching him, he couldn't lose. The same goes for Kaachan, as Ochako was beside Toshinori and Eri. Returning to his dam's side a little bruised, Izuku paid half a mind to the next match. It seems Kaachan and his fight had put the other mersharks in the mood, and now Ochako was sparring against Todoroki's dam Momo (he looked around for the bicoloured mer, but it seemed only his dam was present in the pod). Izuku smiled as he noticed Toshinori was absorbed in the dam fight – and he didn't need to read the mer's scent to know his mate was thrumming with barely restrained anticipation. When Ochako's and Momo's concluded, Izuku nudged his mate and warbled at the dam to go next.
Dam fights must have been frowned upon among the shallow water mers as Toshinori seemed entirely surprised by Izuku's allowance and support. He let out a bright smile and nodded as he once more chittered at the blonde mer to join the activity. Toshinori's eyes drift to his mother who also encouraged him, and Izuku watched as his mate swam hesitantly towards the sparring area. The coastal mer's opponent was one of the mershark elders Izuku only knew as Best Jeanist. The mer's real name was rarely used, and he never knew why. Either way the sparring session was interesting, as the style Toshinori used was completely different to what mersharks favoured. Majority of the moves were using his opponent's strength against them and using his larger frame to overpower the shark mer. Both participants were slower when compared to the younger mersharks and it was obvious they were both out of practice. Nevertheless, the fight was more strategic opposed to the power brawl Kaachan and he had demonstrated earlier, ending in a stalemate as well.
Izuku would never forget how happy his mate was after the spar as Toshinori trilled at him about the experience. Safe to say, Izuku knew they would be visiting the communal pod more often now – at least Eri would pick up on mershark behaviour with the added exposure.
Not forgetting that his mother would be happy to see him regularly.
X.
Eri had nearly been weaned off her mother's milk, when Toshinori suggested introducing the pup and Izuku to his birth pod. The timing wasn't all that favourable in Izuku's mind as he knew as soon as the pup was fully weaned, his mate would immediately experience a heat. Even now, he could smell the faint teasing of ripe fertility in the mer's scent – his heat period was close. Izuku had wanted to reject the suggestion, as the travel during this period may attract unsavoury mersharks or other predatory creatures. However, he could understand the mer's thought process. In preparation for heat; the dam's complexion would improve overall. Their skin would glow, hair would shine and scales would glitter. Compared to how he looked when he first arrived in Izuku's territory; Toshinori was an entirely different mer, and the dam wanted to show that to his birth podmates.
Izuku sighed and acquiesce – despite his preference, he couldn't deny his mate. Especially with that pleading look on his face.
Besides, the smile and excited trilling Toshinori lavished him with after he agreed to the suggestion was worth it.
Despite his concerns, the trip to Toshinori's birthpod was uneventful. Although Izuku was impressed at the distance the coastal mer had covered alone when he first travelled to Izuku's territory. They had stopped at various coves on the way to eat and sleep, beside Eri needed her rest (her endurance was rapidly growing, but she was still a pup after all). With a few days of continuous travel, they finally entered the shallow waters. The brightness was a little difficult to adjust to at first for Izuku and Eri, as they were built for darker environments. Not to mention, the warmth was initially uncomfortable, but keeping to the shady areas under rocks and reefs made the situation bearable until they adjusted to the water temperature.
However, the discomfort was worthwhile as the brighter lighting and warmer water made Toshinori look down right beautiful. Izuku always knew his mate was attractive and desirable; but seeing the sunlight bounce off those deep blue scales and refract plenty of tiny rainbows around him was breath-taking. Not to mention how Toshinori's hair seemed to turn into liquid gold in the sunlit water as it flowed around him. Even Eri was awe-struck as she chittered how pretty her mother was – earning a series of embarrassed clicking from the dam.
'Beautiful.' Izuku warbled reverently, with his expression sincere and tender; causing Toshinori's skin to flush even deeper, who responded with a shy but pleased trill.
Continuing their journey, it wasn't long before they arrived near Toshinori's birth pod. Izuku could smell and see the excitement being exuded from the mer as they approached the area. Clicking at his dam, Izuku suggested that he would remain outside with Eri until Toshinori did the initial introduction – gesturing to the dam's scar, it was obvious his kind wouldn't be received warmly. The coastal mer frowned, but reluctantly agreed after listening to Izuku's explanation. Chittering in agreement, the mer swam towards his birth place.
Due to his sharp eyesight, Izuku was able to keep an eye on his mate from a distance. He watched as the other coastal mers from the pod began approaching Toshinori, clearly shocked by his sudden reappearance. Using his heightened hearing, Izuku could vaguely pick up on the conversation. He smiled with pride at the compliments the dam received for this improved appearance and chuckled at the questioning clicks, asking about his mating bite. Hearing his mate chitter in response about Eri and himself before gesturing towards their direction, Izuku took it as his que to leave their hiding spot.
Careful to keep his distance and making a mental note of the other sires, Izuku waved at them good-naturedly; despite noting the sudden change of scents from light and happy to fearful. Eri had also picked on the change as she snuggled into Izuku's side. Wrapping his arm around her, Izuku patiently held his position until Toshinori returned to his side. Perhaps the sight of the pup and the relaxed posture Izuku was holding, made the other costal mers calm down as they hesitantly began approaching them.
The first two coastal mers were the elders of the pack, and Toshinori introduced the sire as Torino and dam as Nana. A short explanation from his mate, informed him that these were the two mers who had raised his mate – indicating they were his dam's parents. Accordingly, Izuku respectfully greeted them, and allowed Eri to leave his side as they whistled and trilled in her direction (both Nana and Torino mentioned the pup looked like Toshinori during his fry stage). They continued bonding as the rest of the pod surrounded them. It was idle chatter until the topic moved towards mersharks and Izuku took advantage of the situation to clear the misunderstandings of his kind.
Amidst all the curious questions, Izuku picked on the scent of jealousy from the crowd. Discreetly, he glanced in the direction of its source and casually noted it was coming from the group of coastal mer dams Toshinori was currently engaged in conversation with. Izuku bit a smile but puffed his chest with pride as he realised those mers were inspecting the mating necklace with envy. Unlike with mersharks, he could see the lack of pearls used in the necklaces on mated dams; the ones that did have pearls would only be the common white variety and that was only one. The absence of sharp claws to open oysters without damaging the gem definitely contributed to this difference.
Clearly his mate was aware of this, as he caught Toshinori's discussion focused on it – his mate must have had something against them to rub it into their faces. Stifling an amused chitter, Izuku called out to his dam and once the mer was in arm's reach he began openly showering Toshinori with affection. If his mate wanted to show off, it was Izuku's duty as Toshinori's sire to help. Once more he picked on the sharp note of jealousy from the group before kissing the mating bite. From the knowing looks that Nana and Torino were sending in their direction, it was safe to assume they had noticed the behaviour as well.
It was obvious, given the hints Izuku had picked up since he had met the coastal mer that Toshinori was looked down upon by the dams in his pod; and this was his dam's chance to give back to them.
Nana's clicking interrupted his musing, offering them a place to stay until they felt rested to return. Sharing a glance with Toshinori, Izuku whistled in agreement. Despite his urge to return to their home in preparation for his dam's heat, it would be better if they remained with the costal mers for till they regained their strength – not to mention the journey and excitement of meeting new people had worn out Eri as she was now sleeping peacefully in Toshinori's arms.
In the event Toshinori did go into heat, they would be safe in the birth pod grounds.
Plus, Izuku had noticed some of the larger sires had been eyeing his mate. The mershark tightened the grip possessively over Toshinori and flashed a rather predatory smile in their direction. Causing them to flinch and shift nervously as they averted their gaze. Toshinori sent a questioning look and Izuku instantly softened his smile and covered his teeth. Chest rumbling with reassurance, he guided his mate and pup towards the pod's entrance.
The more he thought about it, he wouldn't mind spending Toshinori's heat here. It would give him the opportunity to show those who cast his mate aside so carelessly what they missed out on. Pressing another gentle kiss on the dam's mating bite, Izuku smiled at the shiver which ran down Toshinori's spine and sweetening of the mer's already ripe scent.
It wouldn't be long before the dam would enter his heat.
A/N: I had initially planned on including these scenes, but I scrapped them due to it not fitting with Toshinori's view. So here they are from Izuku's. I didn't really have much of a plan for this apart from filling in bits of world building.
Feel free to share your thoughts and comments about it. Would love to hear it! Would love to hear it! You even can reach out to me on Twitter(MiaVilmarix).