A.N. — Happy birthday, Hizashi Yamada. I had too many ideas for you! I had a drabble written about his fluency in multiple languages (including touching on JSL and potential hearing loss), then this one struck me over the head at work and made me write it.

188. Hizashi Yamada/Present Mic

Present Mic took on many roles: hero, educator, DJ. The latter filled him with the most pride.

Through his radio show, Hizashi gave voice to the voiceless. Nobody's opinion would be muzzled, no topic was taboo. Everybody could shout their exultations or lamentations through the airwaves and not only be heard but also understood.

His appearance was almost outlandish, but all that attention on him allowed Hizashi to direct the narrative to his aims. His brand of heroism was loud and proud, but it was his behind-the-scenes work (done without fanfare) that made Present Mic a successful hero.