A/N: what's this? I finally updated? Lolol yeah sorry for the delay folks! I was busy with final projects and KH3 so (not to mention writer's block's being a total pain) but yeah, I hope you guys like this chapter too!
7: thank you for all the reviews~
SwanGirl24: Right here haha and I guess no pairings? Hmm, my creative method? I just sleep and go outside to get some fresh air and ideas.
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Shiro Usagi Dobutsu: We'll see haha, I have a lot planned for the future. Hmmm... how about Nort or X? Lmao
Guest 1: Thank you! And yeah that was the Esuna magic lolol. And here's the next chapter~
Anonymous: That's true. Hikari also have to learn how to read a situation. And thanks!
Kit-Kat for you: thank you! I hope so too
JaffaArchfiend: Thank you! And let the creativity flowww
Reversus12: Thank you! There will be a lot more canon deviation lolol. Ohhhh he will ;)))
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Guest 2: lmaooo, you know how Shigaraki is. Anything to benefit the League.
Chapter 14
a new mission
Sora:
How's the internship? Got to do something exciting? :D
Hikari tapped on the chat bubble, typing her reply. [Eh, so far so good. Just patrol and stuff.]
The brunette had gone back to her room since there was no one around the common area. Tokoyami wanted to ask something personally to Hawks and she decided not to follow him up to the bird man's office. She checked her messages a few times—waiting for someone to start a conversation in the group. The group chat with class A was silent, probably because they're not finished with their internship for the day.
[Aren't 'cha supposed to be on duty now? Slacking off now are ye? lol] even though they were texting, the brunette could imagine the teasing look her brother would give her if he was beside her.
Hikari snorted, sending a sticker before replying. [Puh-lease! I ain't like ye, lazy bum. My awesome boss gave us free time :P]
Sora sent her a sticker. [Whutttt no fairrrr! I want a boss like that D:]
[Bro, ya don't need a boss] Hikari deadpanned, joking around with her brother. Their chats were always filled with stickers and idle conversations.
[lol true btw did you know Hayner got a new part-time job?!]
[Aye Roxas told me.]
The conversation continued. Every time her friends and family asked about her day, she always said that it was only a patrol. She decided not to tell either her friends and family about the villain injecting Trigger in her—at least not yet. She figured if she told them the truth, they would overreact and worry more than they should. Sora and Riku especially.
Midoriya Izuku sent a location
'Midoriya?' Hikari raised an eyebrow as she opened the chat where Midoriya had sent a location. It was in the group chat. She tapped on the location and it directed her to the map application. 'This is Hosu City. Isn't Midoriya supposed to be somewhere out of Tokyo?' she sat up straight, a feeling of dread building up.
The city where Ingenium got attacked by the Hero Killer. The place where Iida was interning at. And now, Midoriya was sending a location in Hosu when he's supposed to be around Yamanashi Prefecture.
[Hey, ttyl. Boss man just called lol] Hikari quickly typed, though her expression and thoughts contradict what she just texted.
[KK! See u later!]
The brunette copied the location and searched through her contacts, trying to find her homeroom teacher. The group chat didn't have Aizawa as a member. After the recent villain activities going around, all students were told to have their teacher in their contacts in case of an emergency. It might seem a bit impolite to ask her teacher to check on her friends, but if she can't be there for them, the least she can do is tell her teacher.
'I might be wrong, but better safe than sorry.'
Location sent
-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-
Flames covered the city, illuminating the dark sky.
Screams of terror and the sound of emergency sirens could be heard throughout the city.
It had been a fairly tranquil evening.
Eraserhead had been patrolling.
The Hero Killer was predicted to still be around Hosu City and therefore, the Erasure Hero was stationed in the city. It was also a coincidence that he was heading to Hosu City as well for Iida. No one knew what the Hero Killer's quirk is—though from Tensei, they assumed that it has something to do with blood and paralysis. He was the best choice for the job—a quirk that can temporarily erase another one's quirk.
He patrolled at the same part of town as Manual—though he made sure to keep out of sight from the pro hero and his intern.
Then out of the blue, the explosion came and from there panic ensues.
As he was about to make his way to the street where the fight is occurring, he felt his phone vibrate inside his pocket.
'Of all the time, now—!' The Erasure Hero scowled as he ran. Nonetheless, he took out his phone to check whatever notification he received. Once more he came to a halt when he saw the sender's name. It was from one of his students, Leonhart—who was supposed to be in Fukuoka. He opened the message, which was a location right in Hosu City. "Ekou Street, District 4?" he raised an eyebrow in confusion.
Leonhart:
Sorry to bother you, Mr. Aizawa, but this is a location from Midoriya. I don't know what's going on there, but I just thought it's the right thing to do to share the location with you.
'Midoriya?' Aizawa began to connect the dots.
At the same time this incident occurred, there was also an indirect message from Midoriya in Hosu City when he's supposed to be in Yamanashi with pro Hero Grand Torino. He turned to look at the direction where the fight was before turning around, finally making his mind to look for his student. There were many pro heroes stationed around—he just has to trust they can handle whatever was causing havoc at the central.
Aizawa abruptly stopped when something flew overhead.
Through the gaps of his goggles, he saw a flash of yellow fighting a green monster. From the quick glimpse, he could recognize the yellow flash as an elderly man in a hero suit with a yellow cape. As for the monster, its brain was exposed for the world to see.
He recognized that characteristic anywhere.
"Nomu."
Why was there a Nomu at the same time the Hero Killer is predicted to be around Hosu City as well?
'Unless the Hero Killer is working with the League of Villains...' Aizawa scowled at the thought. Deep down, he was glad Leonhart decided to stay with Hawks instead of Native or himself—otherwise he was sure she'll be the prime target in this attack. 'All the good reason to find Midoriya and Iida as soon as possible.' he continued on his run, dashing across the empty sidewalk.
It didn't take him long to find his students.
He didn't need a GPS to know which alley.
"Be ready!" Todoroki.
"H—He can still move!" Midoriya. "Iida, look out!"
Aizawa gritted his teeth as he tried to quicken his pace. He grabbed his scarf as he made his way. The man skidded to a stop right at in front of the alley and he quickly caught sight of the Hero Killer's back facing him.
He didn't think twice to activate his quirk and at the same time he threw his capturing weapon towards the villain. The white scarf wrapped themselves around the villain's body, securing him in a tight hold.
Midoriya's eyes widened when he saw the signature scarf wrapped around Stain, preventing the villain from moving. "M—Mr. Aizawa?!" he shouted, surprise in his tone. "H—How?"
Both Todoroki and Iida were as speechless as Midoriya.
Stain grunted in pain when the scarf tightened around his injured ribs. "The Erasure Hero... Eraserhead, I presume?" he glanced to look over his shoulder, finding the sight of the pro hero.
Aizawa didn't blink, instead he pulled on his scarf, pulling the villain further away from his students.
Midoriya tried to push himself up. "Careful, Mr. Aizawa! Don't let him draw blood! He paralyzes opponents by ingesting their blood!" he warned, keeping his eyes locked on the villain.
Stain kicked the knife up by the handle and caught it between his teeth. He quickly made a dash towards the pro hero. Even with his injuries and his arms bound by the scarf, it didn't stop him from attacking.
Aizawa swerve to the right, avoiding the knife from grazing his neck. He brought his knee up, kneeing the Hero Killer by his stomach. The Hero Killer dropped his knife and Aizawa quickly placed his hand behind the villain's neck, shoving his face to the ground and then pinning him down.
'So this is the difference between a pro and us...' Todoroki held his arm, exhaling a deep breath.
"You three." Aizawa didn't turn to look at his students when he called them. He didn't need to look to know they tensed up. He was disappointed. They took matters into their own hands when they know they were no match against the Hero Killer alone. "What's the damage?"
It would be dense of him to ask if they were alright—they obviously obtained serious injuries from the fight.
"A—Ah, umm..." Midoriya gulped. "I can't move my left leg and I think my right arm's broken." he looked over to his arm, placing his left hand on it.
"Two stab wounds on my arm." Todoroki replied. "But Iida..." he looked over his shoulder.
Iida stayed quiet staring down at the ground.
Native stood up and went over to help Midoriya. "Sorry, Eraserhead. I'm supposed to be a pro, but I wasn't able to protect them at all."
Aizawa sighed. "It can't be helped." he replied, forcefully pulling Stain to sit up. "Call an ambulance. We need to get all of you to the hospital. I'll deal with you three properly later." he said sternly.
All three of his students gave a nod. "Yes, sir..."
Native escorted the three teens out of the alley. Stain's eyes followed them as they walked pass, making all of them feel weary under his gaze.
"Such a good teacher."
The Erasure hero snapped his attention back to the villain. He tightened his hold, tightening his capture weapon to secure the villain in place.
"Tell me, Eraserhead." Stain began, looking over to the hero from the corner of his eye. He knew of the Underground Hero's records who works with U.A. by day and hero by night. From the previous headlines about the villain attack in U.A., he can say that the pro hero is the girl's teacher. "Leonhart Hikari... Do you know who she is?" he asked.
"None of your concern." Aizawa answered curtly.
"What?" Midoriya's eyes were wide as plates when he heard a familiar name.
Native immediately recognized the name. He submitted a recommendation form to U.A. for the girl to intern at his office. With what happened today, he was glad she didn't choose him.
Todoroki narrowed his eyes with his brows furrowed down. "What does he want with Leonhart?" he said lowly.
Iida gritted his teeth. His older brother told him the reason. They believed the villain is after Leonhart because of her ability to heal others. Tensei never told the villain who gave him the potion, but it wasn't hard to put things together. The Toxic Haze incident, along with USJ, anyone could've guessed who the healer is. Though many seek the quirk of a healer, Stain doesn't seem to be one of them.
"You're their teacher as well..." Stain's eyes glanced over to look at the three students who stiffened at his cold gaze. His eyes looked over towards Iida before stopping at Midoriya. The boy—who was in Shigaraki's kill list—was deemed to be worthy to be called a hero. He averted his gaze back to look at the pro standing behind him. "But alas, not even you shall be spared if you interfere, hero." he chuckled, a grin slowly appearing on his face.
Aizawa didn't reply. He didn't know what was the true reason behind the Hero Killer going after his student. It was impossible to believe an innocent fifteen-year-old can make an S-ranked villain go after her. 'For whatever reason, it must be personal...'
"Why are you after her?" The Erasure Hero finally asked. "What's your reason?"
"I suppose it's smart of her not to tell."
Everything was silent. Tension grew in the air as they wait for Stain to continue.
Stain lowered his gaze. "Tell me, Eraserhead, have you ever heard of the key wielder?"
Aizawa furrowed his eyebrows. "The key wielder...?" During his days in the Underground, he has heard of someone having an important key—the key to what, he doesn't know. It was rumored that the one who has the key can cast eternal darkness. Another rumor said that the key was the one to open Pandora's Box. He doesn't believe in stories without solid proof. "What about it?" he asked carefully.
"It's not hard to put things together now."
"You—" The pro hero's eyes widened. "You... think Leonhart has that key?"
Midoriya swallowed the lump in his throat. A wanted criminal was talking about murdering his friend so open and easily made him feel uneasy. All because Stain believed that Leonhart has the key to something. He remembered Leonhart using a sword back in USJ to fight of Nomu, but was that even a key? It looked like a sword to him and he doubts a key is the size of a real-life sword.
The green-haired boy pursed his lips. Even in tight situations, Leonhart was able to keep moving and fight for her friends. He was there listening and yet he couldn't do anything about it.
"The one who wields the key is a prime target of my purge." Stain answered straightly, a murderous look on his face. His hands behind his back were balled up to the point where his knuckles turned white. "Leonhart Hikari has that key. If she has one, then there must be others as well."
Aizawa clicked his tongue, "Make-believe. What proof do you have?"
Stain narrowed his eyes. "The League—"
Whoosh
"What are you doing here?!" Gran Torino was surprised to see his intern in the city when he specifically told him to stay back inside the bullet train. His eyes glanced over to look at the other kids, who were injured pretty badly. He wanted to yell at them all for—mostly at his intern for being disobedient and reckless, but he didn't have time for that, not now anyway. He and Endeavor have been chasing a flying Nomu around.
And it leaded them here.
The retired hero glanced to look at the sky when he heard the loud screech. He turned to look at the group once more, gathering speed on his feet. "Get down!"
Swoop
It all happened in a blur. There was a strong gush of wind and the next thing they knew, Midoriya was swept up into the air by the flying Nomu.
"Midoriya!"
"Kid!" Gran Torino didn't make it in time and he could only watch as the Nomu took Midoriya further into the sky.
Aizawa averted his gaze. 'If only I—?!' his whole body seemed to froze.
In almost breakneck speed, Stain had thrown his hidden knife, grazing Aizawa on his cheek. His tongue licked the small wound—immobilizing the pro hero from moving. He slipped out from the bond and rushed out from the alley.
"Too slow, Eraserhead."
To everyone's surprise, Stain didn't go after Iida and Native nor did he escape.
He rescued Midoriya.
"Both this sham filled society... and the criminals who wield their power in the name of petty mischief are targets of my purge.
All for the sake of a better society.
Leonhart Hikari—you're next."
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Hawks Hero Office, Fukuoka
"Hoo... Is that so?" Hawks hummed, rubbing his chin in thought when Tokoyami finished his side of the story. It was almost the exact same story he heard in the news, the only difference was how detailed it is from Tokoyami's perspective and thoughts. It filled a few gaps, but it wasn't enough.
Tokoyami crossed his arms, trying to hide his annoyance. "I'm afraid that's all that I can tell you."
Hawks leaned back against the sofa, his arms folded over his chest. "There's still a few things that's not clear... And the villains seem to know Hikari?" The news didn't cover anything about the villains knowing a student personally. All he knew about Leonhart was that she transferred late into U.A.'s hero course and apparently a lot of villains are out to get her—Stain the Hero Killer included.
"Not personally per say... I believe they were surprised when she can hold her ground against the beast." Tokoyami said, clearing a few things. To be honest, he doesn't know the full story. He didn't want to assume things without source. He just voiced what he heard from his classmates and gave his own opinion. "Perhaps it's best if you ask Leonhart herself concerning this matter."
Hawks laughed, giving a thumbs up. "You're right! Thanks for sharing, Tsukuyomi—"
The elevator's doors hissed open.
"Guys, guys!"
The two heroes and Tokoyami all turned their head towards the brunette running towards them. The first thing they noticed was the panic written all over her face.
Hawks turned around from where he sat. "Whoa there! Where's the fire?" he stared at the brunette making her way towards them. He leaned his arm over the backrest of the sofa with a carefree smile. "What seems to be the problem, lil' sparrow?"
"This!" Hikari showed her phone in Hawks' face, showing him the latest news. The pro hero leaned back and took her phone, reading the headline. She just found out the city was attacked a few minutes ago when the news finally showed up. It became the hot topic over the internet in just under ten minutes. "Hosu City is under attack by Nomus and the Hero Killer!" she summarized.
"What? Didn't they double security after Ingenium?" Westwood stood up from where he sat, looking over to Hawks who was busy reading.
Hawks clicked on the link of the live stream, staring at the screen with full concentration.
"—we're here live in the aftermath of the terror attack in Hosu City." a reporter spoke. The video was taken from a helicopter, filming from the skies. The scene was chaotic with sirens blaring. Multiple firetrucks were seen as heroes and firefighters alike were trying to put up the flames. People with serious injuries were rushed to the hospital and many were treated on the spot. "Multiple pro heroes and authorities have been dispatched to assist the situation."
Hikari and Tokoyami peeked over Hawks' shoulder, trying to get a glimpse of the current situation.
"The Nomus appeared around the city approximately six o'clock in the evening, during rush-hour. Pro Hero Endeavor arrived at the scene and took care of the Nomus before they can do further damage.
Witnesses have seen the Hero Killer: Stain present during the attack. Could this mean an alliance between the Hero Killer and the League of Villains? The Hero Killer was after Pro Hero Native. Native—along with three U.A students were injured by the Hero Killer. Fortunately, Endeavor was able to stop the Hero Killer's actions. They were rushed to Hosu General Hospital with no life-threatening injuries.
The Hero Killer has been detained by the police and taken to the Villain Hospital in—"
Hawks paused the video. His eyes glanced over to look at the brunette on his right. She caught his gaze and frowned. She stared back at him—trying to read his expression. He smiled, giving her phone back.
"Well, there's nothing for you little chicks to worry about!" Hawks pushed himself up from the couch and turned around to face his two interns, a reassuring smile on his face. "I'm a hundred percent positive the pros can handle it from there. Endeavor's got this. It's a piece of cake for him." he reassured, waving his hand.
Both Tokoyami and Hikari exchanged looks at their mentor's carefree attitude in this type of situation.
"I guess you're right... Endeavor is there, so what could go wrong?" Hikari agreed, looking over to Tokoyami with a grin on her face. The two of them weren't that oblivious to know Hawks was hiding something from them. From how he stopped the video to how he tried to reassure them, they knew what he was thinking. "But just to be sure..." she quickly opened the chat application, scrolling to look for Midoriya's and Iida's contact.
Tokoyami raised an eyebrow. "Who are you contacting?"
"Iida and Midoriya, and maybe Todoroki too since you know, Endeavor's there." Hikari replied and texted each individual, asking if they're okay.
Hawks clapped his hands. "Yup! Hey, how about you kids help Trixx at the lobby? He went out to pick up some take-outs. He should be back soon." he glanced to look at his nonexistent watch.
"Very well." Tokoyami closed his eyes, turning around to walk back towards the elevator.
Hikari joined her friend. "I guess we'll see you guys at dinner?"
Hawks pointed finger guns at them both. "Righty-O!"
The pro heroes watched as the kids went inside the elevator. When the doors closed, only then Hawks dropped his façade. A frown replaced his usually carefree smile.
"Hawks."
The blond man sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah, I know."
Stain was in alliance with the League.
"Should we cancel tomorrow's meeting with Detective Tsukauchi?" Westwood asked.
Hawks hummed. "We're still not sure—"
Almost as if it was on cue, his cellphone rang. He took his phone from the table, lifting his visor up, looking at the contact's id.
He whistled. Just the person he wanted to talk to.
"Hey~, Eraserhead! How are you doing?"
-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-
'I'm glad... it's over.'
The talk with Hosu's Chief of Police was a hard one. They were lucky enough to get away from the punishment—though their mentors seemed to get the bad end of it. The Chief of Police has left minutes ago, leaving the three teens to themselves once more.
Midoriya exhaled a heavy breath.
Suddenly, the door slides open.
A man stepped inside the room. The all-to-familiar face that made the three teens stiffen just by seeing him. The man—their homeroom teacher, Aizawa came in with a frown on his lips and a stern look across his face.
The green-haired boy blinked. His teacher came in pushing someone on a wheelchair. The man on the wheelchair looked oddly familiar. 'AH! Iida's brother, Ingenium!' he thought, his eyes showing amazement.
Ingenium's expression mimicked Aizawa's as he looked at them all. He looked around the room before his eyes landed on the boy with the same shade of hair color as him.
"Big brother—!" Iida quickly stood up. As quickly as he looked at his brother, he averted his gaze to the floor. A shameful look across his face. He realized his mistakes for going after the Hero Killer—even after his own brother warned him not to.
Aizawa closed the door behind him as Ingenium moved the wheelchair by himself, making his way to his younger brother.
Before Ingenium could say anything, Iida gave a deep bow, his whole body shaking as tears threatened to fall down.
"I'm sorry! You warned me not to go after the Hero Killer and yet I disobeyed your wishes! I'll accept any punishment you'll give me." Iida squinted his eyes shut, still avoiding eye contact with his brother. "I'm really sorry, Big Brother." he apologized again, this time more quietly.
Midoriya gave Iida a sympathetic look. 'Iida...'
"I'm disappointed and mad." Ingenium began and Iida didn't reply back. The man placed his hand gently on Iida's head, giving a ruffle. He smiled, confusing his brother. "But I'm glad... I'm glad you're safe. Don't ever do that again, Tenya." he said, carefully pulling Iida to a hug.
Both Midoriya and Todoroki sighed in relief, happy that things between the Iidas were okay.
"Now, don't think you're off the hook yet." they almost forgot Aizawa was inside the room as well. The three teens stiffened once more. They expected that if they don't get a punishment from the Chief of Police, then they will get a punishment from their mentors or their teacher instead.
Ingenium nodded his head in agreement. "Of course. A proper punishment is expected for your stunts."
Aizawa crossed his arms, a disapproving look across his face. "You three should've known where your limits are. Taking the Hero Killer by yourself was foolish. What would happen if I didn't arrive there on time?" he asked rhetorically.
"We're sorry."
The black-haired man exhaled loudly. He knew they realized their mistakes and was ready to take responsibility for it.
Aizawa rubbed the back of his neck, averting his gaze to the green-haired boy. "You're lucky Leonhart gave me the location you sent."
Midoriya blinked. "Eh? Leonhart?" he was confused why Aizawa knew of their location and now he knew the answer.
"You should thank her." Ingenium said, leaning back against his wheelchair. "She's been having this hunch ever since she visited. Said that she had a bad feeling about you going to Hosu, so she never stopped looking out for you." he gently nudged his elbow on Iida's hip.
"Leonhart..." Iida looked down. He broke his promise to her and she's been looking out for him even so. An apology is definitely what he would do next. "Of course!"
Midoriya placed a hand on his chin. Speaking of Leonhart, the talk between Aizawa and Stain began to playback in his head. They were speaking of a key—that key being Leonhart herself or the key being in her possession. He couldn't think of an idea why Stain was after his classmate. As far as he knows, Leonhart never did anything that would make someone want to kill her.
"Something wrong, Midoriya?" Aizawa snapped the boy from his trail of thoughts.
"Ah! Uh... Umm—well..." Midoriya stuttered out, he looked down to his lap, staring at his hands. He was there when Stain declared he will kill his friend and yet he was struck in fear from the intimidating aura Stain gave off. He believed neither of his friends or the pros heard it. The voice was low and menacing.
Leonhart Hikari—you're next.
"It's... about Leonhart..." The green-haired boy swallowed, biting his lower lip to stop himself from trembling. "The Hero Killer—what does he want with her?"
"What did he say to you?" Aizawa asked.
"He said he's coming for her next." Midoriya answered. "But for what? What did she do to make the Hero Killer hate her so much?"
Todoroki looked down to his phone. He noticed the message he received from Leonhart last night, asking if he and the others are alright. He didn't have time to reply back just yet and left her on read for the time being. It's hard to believe that a girl who's caring like her would be on top of the Hero Killer's list.
"He kept mentioning something about her being a key?" Todoroki stared at Aizawa.
Their homeroom teacher sighed. "We don't know what the Hero Killer wants with her." he replied. He wasn't exactly sure about Stain's statement unless he asked the girl in question himself. There were so many things he needs to clarify with his student. It would be a sensitive information if it was true. "Either way, it's not something you should be worried about. The Hero Killer's going to Tartarus and there's no chance of him going out." he reassured.
"Yeah, but..." Midoriya trailed off. He was feeling rather uneasy.
"Enough of that." Aizawa stopped the conversation from continuing. "I'll go straight and give all of you the proper punishments you deserve."
The three teens nodded. "Y—Yer, sir..."
-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-
The news about Hosu City was in every news channel.
It was the first thing they heard when they turned on the TV in the common area.
"They've been talking about it all morning." Tokoyami commented, watching the news from where he sat. There weren't many of Hawks sidekicks or employees in the common area. Many of them had started their routine, leaving the two interns as they are. "What a way to start our activities." he leaned back against the chair, a soft sigh escaping his beak.
The headlines were all the same.
The Hero Killer finally behind bars.
Hikari nodded. "Yeah... but on the bright side, the Hero Killer's in jail." she stared at her phone, waiting for either of the three she texted yesterday to answer. "Just hope everyone's okay though..."
"Rest assured. I'm certain they're alright." Tokoyami said.
"Yeah—Hey! Todoroki replied!" Hikari exclaimed loudly and shared her phone for Tokoyami to see the conversation. It was a quick reply, stating that they are all injured but alive. The brunette squinted her eyes at Todoroki's blunt reply, but before she could even reply, there was an incoming call from the bi-color haired teen. "That's a first..." she pressed the green button and put him on speaker.
"Leonhart, Iida told me to call you."
'He's so straightforward.' Hikari gave a nervous laugh. "Hey, you're on speaker. Tokoyami's with me too." she informed.
"Greetings." Tokoyami greeted. "How are your injuries?"
"Both of you are so straightforward." Hikari commented, but she waited for Todoroki or Iida to answer.
"Recovery Girl will come later to examine our injuries." Todoroki replied. There was a short pause. "Well? What did you want to say?" he wasn't talking to them, rather he was talking to the person near him.
Both Tokoyami and Hikari heard the bed's loud creak. The brunette turned to look at Tokoyami and he gave a nod.
"I'll turn off the speaker mode." She turned off the speaker option and pressed the phone close to her ear, waiting for Iida's reply.
"Leonhart, I—" it was Iida himself. "I want to apologize! I broke our promise and went after the Hero Killer! I didn't heed your advice and warning. My mind went blank when I found him. I was blinded by rage and wanted nothing more but to put an end to the Hero Killer. I sincerely hope you will accept my apology." she didn't have to see to know Iida was giving a bow.
The brunette leaned back against the chair, a smile on her lips. "Hey, c'mon, I don't even need to look to know you're exaggerating with the apology." she laughed a little to ease the tension. She knew well about Iida's strong will to go after Stain even after he made a promise not to. "Iida, I'm not even mad. I'm just glad you guys made it out. I heard the fight's tough!"
"It was." Todoroki said. "We barely made it out alive."
Iida wasn't convinced with her forgiveness. "But still..."
"I accept your apology, Iida. Just try to be more careful." Hikari turned to look at Tokoyami who gave a nod at her reply. There was an announcement, calling for both Tokoyami and herself to go down to the meeting room.
"Leonhart—"
"Hey, we got to go now." at the same time Hikari spoke, Todoroki did as well. The brunette quickly apologized for talking over the boy. "Sorry! What were you going to say?"
"...nothing."
The brunette wasn't exactly convinced. "We can talk later then?"
"Alright."
"I'll use my quirk when I visit you guys, so don't worry." Hikari said as they walked towards the elevator. "Take care guys—oh and pass it on to Midoriya too. Tokoyami also said to take care of your health and not be reckless." she parroted the exact words from the boy.
Just when she was about to add something, Todoroki had already ended the call.
The brunette stared at her phone, giving a deadpan look.
"...he hung up on me."
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"Hey, I appreciate you guys coming all the way here." Hawks laughed, greeting the detective and the pro hero with a friendly smile.
Right after he dealt with the Trigger addicts and pulled out some information, Hawks submitted a request to the Hero Network—asking for heroes to join in the mission. Many responded to the request, many were curious. Since when did the number 3 hero ever asked for help in the Hero Network? He was always the one being requested for specific missions.
The case was a bit different from the ordinary since it involved some sort of a new drug that they know nothing of.
Tsukauchi took off his hat, tucking it under his arm. "No problem at all! I look forward to working with you, Hawks." he shook hands with the blond man as he shifted the bag on his left hand to a better position.
"As do I," the man in the white suit agreed, pushing his glasses up to the bridge of his nose. His intense gaze didn't faze the number 3 hero at all.
Hawks laughed. "You're as uptight as you are in those talk-shows!" he shook hands with the man and lifted his visor up to look at the man taller than him. He saw his own reflection from the man's glasses before backing away. "Lighten up a little, Nighteye, or else your face will be stuck like that—Oh, who's this?" he raised an eyebrow when he noticed a muscular blond in a UA uniform walking inside his lobby.
The male placed his suitcase down. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Hawks! I'm Sir Nighteye's intern, Togata Mirio! You can also call me by my hero name, Lemillion!" he strikes a pose with a bright grin on his face. He took a few steps forward and shook Hawks' hand enthusiastically.
"You're from UA too, huh? I'm actually taking care of two under my wings. They should be in the meeting room by now." Hawks laughed, motioning his hand for the three to follow him into the elevator.
Togata grinned, taking his suitcase back into hand. "Oh yeah! Tokoyami Fumikage and Leonhart Hikari, right? I read about them interning under you from the news!" he was ecstatic to know he would be working with his two juniors for this joint mission—especially since he wanted to introduce his mentor to his junior. "I'm actually friends with Leonhart! We met before the internship start!" he added, talking with the equally chatty hero.
Hawks hummed. "Oh? You don't say."
Nighteye kept quiet, his lips in a thin line. He accepted Hawks' request because of two reasons. One, the case in Fukuoka might be connected to the case he's currently working on back in Tokyo. There's been a new drug that immobilized the victim from using their quirk for a short amount of time. But before they could even examine the victim's Quirk Factor, they found nothing wrong and their Factor already went back to normal. They didn't find any names that would lead to the distributor.
Reason number two was plain and simple, because he wanted to meet Leonhart Hikari.
The girl had chosen to intern with the number 3 hero instead of himself. From how Togata spoke of his junior, he was curious of how Leonhart really is. She was willing to stay with a friend instead of an experience with a top hero, but due to safety reasons, she ended up going with Hawks.
A girl with a heart of gold, as what Togata described her.
"AH! Togata-senpai! And Mr. Tsukauchi too!" the brunette exclaimed in surprise, pointing her finger at the blond. Her expression changed as quickly as it appeared. She smiled as she approached them, a plastic bag in hand. "I suppose you guys are here for the meeting?" she asked curiously.
Hawks laughed, giving a thumbs up. "That's right! I invited them over! They's our special guest!" Before Hikari could even complain, the man already knew what she was going to say. "Of course, my two interns have to attend as well! You need to learn something other than tailing me all day." he joked.
Hikari pulled a face.
"It's nice to see you too, Ms. Leonhart." Tsukauchi greeted. He wasn't that surprised to see the girl with Hawks since he was informed about it beforehand. Though, mostly he knew because he watched them in the news. "Let's do our best for this case."
Hikari bowed her head. "Yeah! I look forward to working with you!" she replied politely. The man excused himself first with Hawks to prepare the materials for the presentation, leaving her behind with Togata and All Might's ex sidekick. She turned to look at her senior, a sheepish grin on her face. "I never expected to see you during the internship, but it's nice to see you, Togata-senpai!"
"Hahaha! It's nice to see you too, Leonhart!" Togata said, a hand on his hip. "What's with the water bottles anyway?" he asked, changing the topic slightly.
The brunette looked down. "Oh, we were helping Trixx and Westwood set up the meeting room." she jabbed her thumb over her shoulder, pointing at the door behind her. "And we were short on water, so yeah, I decided to get some more." she laughed.
Her eyes glanced over to the man in the white suit, trying her best not to look uneasy or suspicious.
Togata directed his hand, "Oh yeah! Meet my mentor, Sir Nighteye! He's been dying to meet you!" he introduced enthusiastically.
"Pleasure to meet you." Nighteye raised his right hand as he pushed his glasses up.
Hikari laughed nervously. "It's nice to meet you, Sir Nighteye! You can call me Hikari—cuz that's my hero name too." she joked with a grin on her face. She took Nighteye's hand, giving a shake. "And uh... sorry for you know—almost bumping into you at the sports festival. Oh, and uh... for not choosing your agency too." she apologized awkwardly, hoping the man doesn't hold a grudge against her.
"It's alright."
Nighteye stared at the girl's eyes.
He was tempted to use his quirk.
But he didn't.
He made a promise.
"I look forward working with you, Hikari."
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"Everyone comfy in their seats? Alright then, let's start!"
Hikari's eyes glanced around the room, looking at the pros sitting around her. The desks were rearranged to form a square to make it easier for everyone to voice their opinions of the mission's strategy. There were many that she didn't recognize—she learned they're local heroes from around Fukuoka. Tsukauchi and the Chief Police of Fukuoka and surprisingly Chief Police from Nagasaki as well, were present. It's sad to say that she only recognized the ones from Hawks' agency plus Nighteye and Togata.
"Recently, there's been a few cases about a new drug circulating around the Underground market." Tsukauchi began, holding a few papers in hand. The lights inside the room dimmed a little and a projection was shown behind him. There were pictures of criminals who they managed to detain—including the ones from two days ago. "So far, we have no lead as to what they're trying to achieve, but one of the known effects of the drug is to erase one's Quirk Factor." he continued.
'Is... that what that guy injected in me?' Hikari pursed her lips, scrunching her nose. She was glad that it has no effect on her since she doesn't have a quirk, but if the heroes found out that she doesn't have a quirk and can do all those things—she's toast.
There were a few murmurs around the heroes.
"But before we could examine the victim's Quirk Factor, the effect wore off and left nothing behind." Tsukauchi added.
"So, it's like Eraserhead's quirk?" a hero asked. At the mention of their homeroom teacher, both Hikari and Tokoyami turned to look at him.
"Perhaps. We're not entirely sure." Tsukauchi answered.
"Maybe, the drug works differently on each people? What were the victim's blood type?" A heroine asked.
Tsukauchi shook his head. "We can't assume that just yet. So far the victims' blood types are O."
Another hero sighed, crossing his arms. "So, we don't actually have a lead, huh?"
Hawks hummed. "This wasn't exactly in the news, but one of my interns got injected by that same drug and yet she can still use her quirk." he told and the heroes went wild—some turned to look at the girl and some voiced their concern. He dug out the info from the yakuza about what was the drug, but other than the function, he got nothing out of him.
"What? Leonhart, are you okay?" Togata immediately turned to look at his junior, a worried look across his usually happy face.
"Yeah! I used my quirk to get rid of any effect it leaves. So, there's nothing to be worried about!" The brunette reassured, silently blaming Hawks for spilling the truth.
"So, the drug only works for some people."
'Not exactly...' Hikari wanted to say, but decided to keep her mouth shut.
"No. The guy seemed surprised when it didn't work on Hikari. I assume it works on everyone, but somehow with her quirk, she's able to erase the negative effect." Hawks explained.
"We have a cure for the drug then!"
'I'm not entirely sure on that either...' Hikari sighed softly.
Nighteye silently observed and listened to the heroes' thoughts and opinions. There were so many theories that they could suggest and yet they couldn't confirm anything except for the fact the drug attacks one's Quirk Factor.
"With Hawks' range of intel, we managed to pinpoint the location where they have been selling and buying." Tsukauchi pressed the remote and the slide changes to a picture of an abandoned looking island. "Ever since last year's typhoon, the island has been deserted. We believed the villains have been using this island to do the exchange."
Tsukauchi moved to the next slide, showing the Hakata Port. "From what we gathered, there's a ship moving from Gunkanjima island. We estimated that it's supposed to dock at Hakata Port tomorrow evening with the route it's taking."
"And you're... certain?"
"Hey, my ears are everywhere. They don't lie." Hawks commented, a cocky smile across his lips.
"With this—we're going into two groups. The first one will move with Hawks to investigate Gunkanjima. The second group will handle the raid here in Hakata Port."
A hero raised his hand. "Wait—That means you're taking your interns on this dangerous mission?" he asked in disbelief, staring at the two kids before looking at Hawks.
Both Tokoyami and Hikari didn't actually mind going on these types of mission. It would be like an experience for them to learn more.
The number 3 hero laughed. "Of course! They're my interns, they go wherever I go." he flashed the two of them a grin and a thumbs up. "And besides, this would just be a recon. I won't let them do anything dangerous."
After three long hours of discussing strategy and tactics, the meeting had finally come to an end. The investigation at Gunkanjima would take place tomorrow morning at 8 AM while the Raid at Hakata Port will begin at 8 PM.
Hikari slumped in her seat at the common area, sighing heavily. She was tired for sitting still three hours straight—listening to the heroes' debate which was the best strategy. Hawks' team would depart from Fukuoka to Nagasaki today after lunch, which means they have to pack up their gear, hop on to another train for two hours and then discuss the tactics again with the Nagasaki Police Force.
"Hahaha! Thanks for your hard work, guys!" Togata appeared behind the two teens with refreshments. He gave them the canned drinks, taking a seat in front of them. "I bet you guys were tired from listening to all those debates, huh? Well, cheers for today!" he raised his can.
Both Tokoyami and Hikari raised their drinks, toasting it with Togata's.
Nighteye and Togata were also in Hawks' team, along with Tsukauchi and a few policemen from Nagasaki. Two of Hawks' sidekicks, Trixx and Westwood were in charge of the raid in Hakata Port. The rest of the heroes who were present were also stationed to help with the raid. A small group was better for recon instead of a large group.
"We still have a few hours before we leave, how about you guys show me around Fukuoka?" Togata cheerfully said.
"That's a great idea! Anything to get some fresh air and the sun!" Hikari nodded her head before taking a sip from her drink. "Oh, I wanna buy some souvenirs too! Who knows when we will have a chance to go buy them after this mission!" she grinned.
Togata nodded, instantly agreeing with his junior. "Yeah! Let's buy lots of it! I heard their Hakata Torimon is super delicious! Tamaki would love to try Mentaiko flavored snacks! Tamaki's my friend by the way." he added the last bit of info.
Tokoyami hummed. "Before we leave, we should ask for permission first."
"Oh, yeah..."
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"Are you sure about letting them join, Hawks?" Nighteye asked.
Hawks stretched his arms above his head. "Yeah, yeah, a 100% positive. They're stronger than they look, you know." he pointed his finger at the bespectacled man. "And besides, you let Lemillion join in on the investigation. Kinda unfair if you don't let my kids join in too." he flashed the man a smirk.
Nighteye pushed his glasses up.
The blond man spun around once on the swivel chair before facing Nighteye. "Though, I'm curious, was it really because of this case that you came all the way from Tokyo to my little hometown, Fukuoka?" he questioned.
"Of course. My intentions are to investigate this illegal drug distribution and put an end to it." Nighteye replied just as smartly. It was one of the reasons. The both of them were equally as sharp when it comes to gathering information and knowledge.
Hawks shrugged. "I dunno... It seems to me that you're trying to keep an eye on Hikari. I heard that you also scout her out to be your intern—which is rare by the way." he leaned against the table, his hands propping up his chin. "With all the things that happened around her, anyone's bound to try and figure out what's going on with this kid."
"And you're not?"
"Oh, I'm interested. The League—not to mention Stain is after her. I wonder why? She seems like a nice girl." Hawks sighed. It might be because of her quirk—because what can a fifteen year old do to make those bad guys after her so badly? He didn't want to think that she's someone who secretly works with a villain. He doubts that. "Well! I guess that would remain as a mystery."
Nighteye exhaled softly. "I'm merely trying to return the favor I could never repay." his eyes soften just a little behind his glasses. No matter how mysterious Leonhart is now, she is still the girl who healed and changed All Might's future. A villain would never help the Symbol of Peace.
Hawks blinked. He's interested. "Hmm? For what?"
"I suppose that's the part where your information gathering skill comes to play." Nighteye challenged, his expression straight and unreadable. "But don't waste your time looking for what you cannot find."
Hawks laughed, his arms crossed.
"Of course."