Y** K** chapter 15 . Apr 23 : Dude story was great but ur oc is stupid sndvu just made it a nsive litylr girl who thinks she can try to save people from them selves by her using midoriya to Todoroki mskes u naive LMFAO STORY IS STUPID AS FUCK XD
Um...lol?
I think…what really baffled me…was that you took the time to read all the updated chapters…only to flame it in the end…without proper spelling and grammar… Are you okay?
This story is for my own pleasure and I enjoy sharing it with others. You have no obligations to read it if you don't want to! There are literally thousands of other fanfics to read but I really hope you won't flame others like this!
I'm not sure if you'll even see this message but I'm not gonna bother with this in the future. Not worth reporting.
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Disclaimer: I do not own Boku no Hero Academia.
The next day, Ayame headed to Yume's agency with her hero suitcase. She hadn't told Yume that she decided on her agency but Ayame did spend a long time contemplating it. There were a lot of familiar and unfamiliar agencies extending their offer to Ayame and she spent hours looking them up, too. There was not another surprising offer like Endeavors, which she still couldn't figure out why he choose her, and decided to promptly ignore him.
It must have been a mistake, Ayame believed, and there's no way I can stand his behavior…
But, Todoroki was able to look past all of that. He was brave...and Ayame couldn't help but feel proud and happy for him. Maybe her classmates were right; she was looking at 1-A like her own children.
With a shake of her head, Ayame entered the large hero agency of her sisters. It wasn't that Yume owned it—but it was because of her that the company was able to keep a prestigious reputation. The agency was located in Tokyo but often, nearby cities would request LullaCry for help. She was just that sought after. And, usually, her sister could not refuse the requests. She was a hero that wanted to help as much people as possible.
Ayame cleared through the reception, smiling as others recognized her with just a glance. Her hair was loose again, two little braids wrapped around the back of her head unlike the bun she had made before. She told herself to be confident, there's no need to be insecure anymore.
Yume was in her office when the assistant led Ayame in. She had a phone in hand, talking to the person on the other line and scheduled a meeting quickly. Afterwards, her violet eyes looked up to Ayame—surprise flashing by her face as she saw her little sister grinning at her.
"Hello! I am the intern from U.A. High School, Ayaminari! Yoroshiku onegaishimasu!" Ayame bowed her head.
The assistant left, leaving the two sisters alone and after being stunned for one second, Yume laughed. She approached her sister and playfully pinched her cheeks.
"Why, you," Yume giggled, "This is a nice surprise."
"Ow, onee-chan!" Ayame pouted, her lips stretching out even more from the pinch, "I am here as a professional hero!"
"Yes, yes," Yume let her go, "But you're still my precious imouto."
Ayame blushed but a happy smile was on her face at that. She sat on the couch in the middle of the room, opening her suitcase to reveal her hero costume.
"Yume-nee! This year, I want real hero work!" Ayame demanded adamantly, "I think I've earned it!"
Yume blinked and sat on the other couch, looking at her sister in amusement. "You know, I was thinking the same thing if you had chosen this agency. I'm glad that you did. I don't plan on holding back, either."
Ayame grinned in satisfaction.
"Why did you choose mine, anyways? I'm sure there were a lot of other agencies that wanted your power. Being a U.A. Sports Festival winner comes with many perks," Yume asked curiously.
"Because I want to learn from you!" Ayame leaned closer to Yume in excitement. "My onee-chan is too strong! That and, All Might didn't choose me."
Ayame sulked and Yume reached out to pinch her again. "You little mischievous kid, I'm only an afterthought?"
"Of course not!" Ayame defended, "Shouta-oji didn't choose me, either!"
Yume pinched her harder, causing Ayame to laugh in pain.
"But, really, what will we be doing this time?" Ayame calmed down to ask again, lilac eyes shining in anticipation.
Yume smiled and sat up straighter. "There's a few more paperwork I have to take care of but we will be patrolling later at night. We also need to let our family know we will be leaving Tokyo for a while."
"We are? What for?" Ayame tilted her head.
"What do you think?" Yume teased, "We're going on a mission, of course!"
After much reassurance to their parents, Ayame and Yume packed up for their trip. Yume still haven't told her where they were going, only saying to pack at least a week worth of clothes and her hero outfit. Suzume was sad to see them both go but the sisters had coddled the youngest sibling enough as assurance.
And so, the two headed out bright and early. Ayame donned her hero costume, fixing the starry cape in happiness as it was repaired and smoothed out the red skirt. Yume adjusted her headband, bringing Ayame's attention to it and looked away shyly.
"I can't believe you still wear that."
Yume glanced down at her sister, lowering her hand with a smile and giggled. "Of course. It was a present from you and Suzu. How can I not wear it?"
"But it doesn't even match with your costume!" Ayame whined, a small blush covering her cheeks as she glanced at the starry headband. It was a gift Ayame and Suzume made two years ago for Yume's graduation present. It was cheesy and—childish but for the two siblings, they didn't know how else to congratulate their eldest sister.
"So?" Yume arched an eyebrow, "I still love it."
Ayame huffed in embarrassment. "So—you never told me where we're going!"
They arrived at the train station but Yume went to the express lane, her hero license gave her clearance to the VIP section. A few civilians had glanced at them in surprise but seeing how both sisters were wearing their hero suits, they dared not to disturb them.
"Hosu City," Yume answered seriously, "This is actually an important case for us. We were hired by another hero agency to work with them in tracking."
Ayame blinked, her mouth opening in surprise at the information. Hosu…City?!
"Is this—regarding—the Hero Killer: Stain?!" Ayame asked, trying to keep her voice to a minimum.
Yume merely nodded, glancing at her in a warning to quiet down and Ayame complied. Of course, something as sensitive regarding the Hero Killer shouldn't be talked about so openly. From what Ayame saw on television…that villain had already killed seventeen heroes and injured twenty-three beyond recovery…
It's another dangerous mission… Ayame realized, lilac eyes studying her calm sister. Again, Yume-nee is being requested for something like this…
But, not only that, Ayame had heard from Hotaru that Iida's brother was the one injured in the last attack. It had been a shock for Ayame to find out Ingenium was Iida's older brother but—mostly, she was worried. Ayame wasn't able to provide any support to her kouhai before she left… That would explain Iida's weird mood lately, too…
What if…Yume-nee was the one to be injured?
They arrived in their cart and set their suitcases in the storage space. Yume sat down on one of the chairs and waited for Ayame. Now that the two were alone, the older sister pulled out her tablet containing the work information.
"The Hero Killer was last seen in Hosu City after injuring Turbo Hero: Ingenium. Based on his previous sightings, Stain would not leave that city yet until he killed or severely injured least four heroes," Yume briefed her carefully. "This… I wouldn't have wanted you to come along… So that's why, for your interns, I do not want you to leave my side at all."
"Okay…" Ayame agreed slowly. "But—I want to help, too. Even I can be of some assistance, nee-chan."
Yume smiled and set her tablet on the table. "I'm sure you will but I also need to know that if I ever tell you to 'run', you do it with no hesitation."
What…? "I won't lea—"
"This isn't up for negotiation, Ayame," Yume said seriously.
Ayame pursed her lips and looked away. "I will…do what is right in the situation."
"Ayame," Yume scolded again.
"You can't tell me to run when faced like that! I won't freeze in front of a villain and watch a family member of mine nearly get killed again!" Ayame stood up.
Yume faltered, violet eyes softening by her resolve. USJ…had changed Ayame. Aizawa's defeat…had really scarred her.
But…
"Your safety is also my top priority, Aya," Yume said softly, "You are interning under my rules now. And, a hero's rules are law." Ayame frowned. "But…I will take your feelings into consideration because you are my sister."
At that, Ayame relaxed and gave a small smile. As long as Yume can trust her, can believe in her, then Ayame will be fine with it. They sat in the cart a little longer as she gazed out the window before realizing something.
"Why aren't we leaving yet?"
Yume looked up from her tablet. "Oh, don't you remember? We are working alongside the agency that hired me for the week. We're waiting for them here."
Oh, Ayame did remember her mentioning something like that.
"Who is it?"
"Mm…you should know of them," Yume smiled teasingly.
"Is it All Might?!"
At that, the door to the cart slammed open. The two sisters turned to look in their direction and suddenly—Ayame froze. Her eyes opened wide, mouth parted in disbelief and—a pair of turquoise eyes glared down at her.
What was Endeavor doing here?!
Ayame had been so shocked that—she hadn't realized another body was partially hiding behind Endeavor's. Todoroki took half a step to the side, heterochormia eyes glancing at the two brunettes in mild surprise.
They…were going to work with them? His father had mentioned they will be partnering up with another agency, which Todoroki found odd because Endeavor never works with anyone, but he hadn't realized…it would be LullaCry…and his senpai. Todoroki sneaked a glance at his father and saw his eyes blazing in anger by Ayame's previous remark.
Serves him right, Todoroki felt lighter.
"W-w-w-what's Endeavor doing here?!" Ayame whispered to her sister in shock but—due to the empty cart, everyone can hear her completely.
"I hired you," Endeavor answered instead and took a step forward.
Ayame gaped and began to sweat, inching slowly behind Yume. Crap—! She thought she could avoid seeing Endeavor if she didn't accept his internship but—she hadn't realized he hired them! It also doesn't help that Ayame technically—wasn't exactly polite to him during their first meeting! H-he's not mad about that—was he?!
Her eyes zeroed in on Todoroki, his mismatched eyes looking at her silently and Ayame quickly ran over. He would be her saving grace—hopefully!
"Todo—Shoto-kun!" Ayame threw away her shame and grasped his hand, "L-let's check out the snack station in the cart! T-the pros probably have stuff they need to talk about!"
With that, she began to drag him through the door. Todoroki left his suitcase behind, not once looking behind him as he followed Ayame out. His eyes glanced down at their joined hands, noticing that she was extremely embarrassed and nervous that he could feel the heat radiate onto him. Due to her embarrassment, she even called him by his first name. Was it because she didn't want to say the same surname in the presence of his father?
"Oh my," Yume blinked at where the two students disappeared off to, "I didn't know Ayame was friends with your son."
"Hm," Endeavor took a seat on the other chair. After rebuking him and rejecting his internship offer, she decided to act scared and run off? That brat… "Your sister…is really impetuous."
"Oh?" Yume smiled in amusement. "Have you met before?"
Endeavor decided to not answer that.
"Ahhhh!" Ayame let go of Todoroki's hand to grasp her head, long brown hair swaying with her as she leaned on the side of the cabinets. "I-I can't believe—Endeavor hired Yume-nee! If I had known I would have chosen another agency—! Todoroki-kun—did Endeavor ever mention—if he's upset at me?"
She switched names again? Todoroki blinked, watching her wide lilac eyes peer at him almost hopefully. Thinking back, his old man had mentioned he sent out another internship but…only Shoto had arrived to his agency. And—if he remembered Midoriya correctly, didn't he say something about Ayame 'talked back' to his father before?
"No…" Todoroki answered slowly.
Ayame let out a sigh of relief. "Maybe he doesn't remember me," she whispered to herself.
"He's the Number Two Pro Hero for a reason," Todoroki reminded, "His memory would be just as annoying."
She whimpered and knocked her head on the cabinet. Todoroki blinked at her again and searched through the little snack station, finding a refreshing sweet tea and handed it to Ayame. She startled at the sudden offer and sighed, smiling in the end at her kouhai's consideration.
"I guess—I'll be able to handle it," Ayame uncapped the bottle to take a sip.
Finally, she noticed the different costume Todoroki had on this time. It was a navy blue suit with a combat vest over it. It was a lot different compared to his previous white and ice one but—it looked good. Ayame couldn't help but wonder…if she had any reason for his costume upgrade.
…No, that can't be it, Ayame laughed at herself.
"And, you're pretty, too."
She startled at the memory, nearly forgetting his comment from their last meeting. Todoroki looked normal as he blinked at her and quickly, Ayame waved all of those thoughts from mind. He was only polite—Ayame just wasn't—used to it yet.
"O-oh! If you're here—we'll be working together for this week!" Ayame realized. She will try her best to avoid Endeavor as much as possible—maybe he wouldn't even pay attention to her if Todoroki was here. But, it was a happy surprise that they will be working together.
"Ah," Todoroki agreed, nodding his head politely. "Yoroshiku."
Ayame giggled. "Yoroshiku onegaishimasu," she bowed back.
They waited a little longer by the snack station. Ayame was trying to calm herself down to face Endeavor again while Todoroki silently glanced at her from time to time. Now, he truly was curious about what she said to be so deeply afraid of his father. Endeavor never mentioned anything about his classmates or the tournament but it wasn't that Todoroki actively went out to seek him.
Maybe I should ask Midoriya…
"Passengers, we will begin boarding in 5 minutes. Please take your seats accordingly. Thank you."
Ayame blinked and sighed, throwing the empty can to the recycle trash and turned to Todoroki with a smile.
"Should we head back?" It was now or never.
Todoroki nodded his head and led the way back. When they returned, Endeavor was sitting across from Yume while the younger hero was looking out the window. It seemed like there wasn't much discussion was necessary but, Ayame felt herself twitch at Endeavor sitting in her seat. Todoroki glanced at her and took the first step to sit on the adjacent seats, inclining his head just the slightest towards the seat opposite of him. Realizing what he meant, Ayame happily went over to sit across.
"Everyone must have gone to their interns already, hm?" Ayame wondered quietly, as if to not disturb the pro heroes next to them. "Oh! Let's send them a photo of us together!"
Ayame pulled out her cell phone and angled it so both of them would be in the picture frame with the window as their background. Yume glanced at them quietly, a small smile on her lips while Endeavor remained motionless. Todoroki complied and leaned in, a blank—yet casual—expression on his face while Ayame was smiling brightly to it.
She took the picture and they both straightened up. Ayame smiled and sent the photo to the group chat, adding 'guess who's partnering up together!' Todoroki's phone buzzed and took it out to see Ayame's message first. Quietly, he clicked on the photo of them together and saved it within his phone.
The remaining train ride was quiet. Ayame was left alone to her phone with Todoroki occasionally glancing at his. Endeavor and Yume were catching up on their work with their own tablets.
When they finally arrived in Hosu City, all of them took their suitcases and left. Endeavor was leading in the front, Todoroki was walking a step behind him, and the two sisters were walking side by side. Ayame was talking to Yume carefully as they browsed through the shops around; making sure her voice was not a loud volume to disturb Endeavor. Yume was slightly amused to see her normally lively sister be so cautious.
They ended up at a luxurious hotel and it was enough to quiet Ayame as she gaped at the building. She looked between Endeavor and Yume and knew—it was mainly because of them that they are able to afford this hotel. With a shake of her head, all four of them headed to check in.
There were two rooms saved for them; one for the sisters and the other for the father-son pair. It was next to each other on the 36th floor and Ayame wondered how many connections they must have to receive this treatment…
"Meet back in the lobby in 15 minutes," Endeavor instructed, "We will begin patrol afterwards."
With that, they headed into their own rooms and as soon as Ayame entered, she let out a huge sigh and flopped on one of the two beds available.
"I don't know how you're able to be so calm around him," Ayame sighed wistfully to her sister.
"Maybe because I didn't do anything to anger him?" Yume wondered out loud.
"H-how did you know?!" Ayame shot up from bed, looking at Yume by the closet with an agape expression.
"Because he's the first hero you didn't immediately ask an autograph from," Yume giggled. Ayame froze—she had asked that—once! "And, you acted like Endeavor-san was going to somehow eat you alive. So, how did you guys meet and what did you say to him?"
Ayame groaned again and fell back onto the bed. Yume was definitely too smart for Ayame to hide anything from.
"For the record, I don't regret it," Ayame said with a huff. "But he was just—being an ass! If possible, I would travel back in time to save Todoroki-kun from him."
"Language," Yume interjected and paused, looking at her sister with curious violet eyes. "I assume it's…complicated family matters then?"
"You have no idea."
Ayame sighed again and got up, brushing the loose hair behind her ears and offered a smile to Yume.
"But, he's grown a lot from it. I'll do whatever I can to help!"
"Oh?" Yume arched one eyebrow, "Now…was he also the one you had the little date with?"
Ayame froze, mouth opening in shock by her implications. "It wasn't a date! W-we just ended up meeting in the hospital!" She quickly stood up and headed towards the door, "I-I'm going to go down first!"
Yume looked amused by her sister's flustered attitude and giggled, watching Ayame quickly leave the room. Her eyes landed to the wall next to her, a small smile on her lips.
"Todoroki Shoto…hm?"
Ayame huffed as she waited for the elevator, brushing long strands of brown hair away from her face again. The whole floor was silent except for her and another second passed before the elevator rang and opened. She stepped in the empty booth and turned to press the lobby floor.
"Ah."
She blinked, looking up to see Todoroki head her way. She held the door open and allowed him in, noticing that his father was not behind him. Ayame sighed in relief again before closing the door and pressed for the lobby.
"Oh, Todoroki-kun, did Endeavor tell you what we're doing here?" Ayame started the conversation.
"We're going after the Hero Killer," one turquoise eye turned to her then, "Did you know?"
"Ah, yeah," Ayame nodded her head, staring at the gold reflection before her eyes, "Yume-nee filled me in earlier. I'm not sure how high of a chance we'll be able to run into him but…let's do our best, yeah?"
Todoroki nodded his head once and the elevator stopped. Both of them exited and walked out together. For a second, her hand brushed against his warm one and startled Ayame, quickly moving her hands behind her to prevent it from swaying. Todoroki didn't say anything and Ayame glanced to the side, trying to think up of a topic. Her eyes landed on a little gift shop in the hotel and she turned to the heterochromia boy again.
"Ah, we have some time now. Want to browse for a gift for your mother?"
He was taken aback by her thoughtfulness and followed where her finger pointed. With a slow nod, Todoroki and Ayame headed into the gift shop. There were stacks of snacks at one side, clothing at another and little souvenirs in the corner. It was mainly themed based on the luxurious hotel and Ayame sighed again at the price tag of the items.
"On a second thought, maybe we shouldn't buy it here," Ayame smiled sheepishly.
"Oh! Are you from U.A.?!"
Both of them turned to the voice, seeing a shop assistant walk up to them with a bright smile. Ayame smiled back and Todoroki nodded his head.
"I saw you both in the Sports Festival! My, congratulations on winning, Sasaki-san! And Todoroki-san, you were just as powerful! As expected of being related to pro heroes!" The man said as compliments.
Ayame twitched yet still kept the smile up politely. Todoroki hummed, unamused.
"Thank you, sir, but she won with her own strength. Not because of her family," Todoroki said coolly, "Excuse us."
He grabbed her hand and led them out, causing Ayame to look at him in surprise—then to the shocked assistant. She muttered a quick 'sorry' to the other man and followed Todoroki out with a small shake of her head.
"What was that for?" Ayame asked.
He glanced at her again before facing forward. "I'm tired of hearing the same thing."
Somehow, a smile had made its way onto Ayame's face as she recalled his words. Wasn't he only defending her?
Behind, Yume giggled in amusement as the two standing side by side, glancing at the stoic Endeavor with his usual frown on his lips.
"They get along well," Yume couldn't help but comment.
Endeavor didn't acknowledge her and walked forward. As soon as they noticed their family was approaching, Ayame and Todoroki turned to the two seriously, waiting for further instructions.
"We will be patrolling the main city," Endeavor acted as the leader and marched forward, "Hero Killer usually hunts in dark alleys near the agencies. We will circle around the perimeter and trap him from both sides if necessary."
"We'll be separating?" Ayame asked.
Endeavor gave her a sharp look and she immediately quieted down, slowly inching backwards from him. Yume smiled helplessly and Todoroki stared back at him.
"Only until we return back to here," Endeavor answered.
With that, he headed out the hotel. Todoroki glanced back at them and the two sisters followed. Endeavor took a left and Todoroki followed him after seeing a small wave from Ayame. Then, the brunettes went to the right.
"Ugh," as soon as he was out of hearing range, Ayame grumbled again, "I used to admire him."
"He's just very dedicated to his work," Yume said lightly.
It's a little more than that, Ayame resisted the urge to roll her eyes. "Nee-chan, do you work for Endeavor often?"
"Not as often as you would imagine," Yume hummed, "All of the times he contacted our agency could be counted on one hand. But this time, it is a special case. The police would like all the help they can get regarding you-know-who."
A few middle school students walked by then, eyes shining in excitement at Yume and she smiled and waved like a professional. Ayame was in awe; her sister attracted attention everywhere she went.
"The civilians in Hosu City are anxious," Yume whispered with her usual smile, "At times like these, seeing a hero in their city will boost morale. We are the ones they will look up to for their safety."
"It's also because you've beat Mt. Lady in the Hero Billboard Chart JP," Ayame snickered, "Man, she was so upset when you won in the popularity ranking."
"I-it wasn't my intention," Yume waved her hand nervously. She had only won by two spots at ranked 21—whereas Mt. Lady was ranked 23.
"And!" Ayame didn't stop, "You're only two years younger than her!"
"Aya!" Yume was red in embarrassment, "Popularity isn't always everything. As heroes, we cannot focus on the fame and fortune. We are here for public safety and to assist the police."
"Yes, ma'am," Ayame giggled.
At that time, a sudden crash came from across the street. Their head snapped in that direction as they saw a man jump through a glass door with armful of jewels.
"Thief! Please, help!"
Yume ran without a second hesitation. She took out her lasso and threw it at the streetlight across, tugging on the rope and swung across the traffic. Yume landed in front of the man and her eyes widen, a red glow emitted from violet eyes staring straight into black one. Suddenly—the man fell down, unconscious. Ayame watched all of that happen in what felt like five seconds, mouth parting in awe again at her sister.
"LullaCry! Thank you!"
"You're the best!"
"Can we take a photo?!"
Yume merely smiled and motioned for the civilians to stay back. Through the mass of people, she found Ayame still dazed from across the street. She waved for her sister over and Ayame finally reacted, summoning a small tengu to fly across the traffic to land before her.
"It's the imouto!"
"The Sports Festival winner?!"
"This is amazing! They're here together!"
Ayame sweated inwardly. Was this how Yume felt being bombard by the civilians all the time?
"Everyone, please," Yume smiled professionally, "We must take him to the police station now. Thank you all for showing support and love for us but, if you may…"
"Of course, LullaCry!"
"Sorry for disturbing you!"
"Do your best!"
"I love you!"
Slowly, the crowd lessened and Yume went down to pick up the unconscious man. Ayame helped return the stolen jewels to the store owner and after confirming everything was in order, they left.
"Ahh, nee-chan sure is amazing," Ayame said wistfully, a large ookami summoned to carry the unconscious man. Seeing the heroes at work, no one else dared to stop them but—many had waved in their direction. "A 5-star hotel…being worshipped at every turn…getting recognized with just a glance…"
"It was only because of Endeavor-san we got such a hotel," Yume tried to justify.
"So you admit to being worshipped?" Ayame asked cheekily.
"No!"
Ayame giggled and decided to stop teasing her sister. Soon, they dropped off the criminal to a police station. Yume took care of the paper works and gave a few autographs, smiling sheepishly while Ayame gave her a knowing look from the side. The older sister resisted the urge to pinch Ayame again and she giggled.
"But, you know," Yume started quietly as soon as they left the police station, "We didn't want to tell you or Suzu because otou-san and okaa-san didn't want to worry you but… The government had notified us that in a few more months, Nightmare's compensation will end."
"What?!" Ayame startled at the secret, looking at her sister with wide eyes.
Yume smiled reassuringly. "There's nothing for you to worry about. They had saved plenty over the years and I can make enough to support our family, too. There won't be any changes to your life."
Ayame gaped at her sister in shock. It was only after Yume's reassurance did Ayame slowly calm down. Their father's work does make a decent amount of money as a famed painter and LullaCry does often get hired. But still…
I want to hurry up and be a hero, so I can help, too…
By the time they met up with Endeavor and Todoroki again, it was night time. There had been no signs of the Hero Killer from either of them and quickly, they took a short break for dinner. They continued to patrol in the night time, circling the dark alleyways and hero agencies but weren't able to find any clue of villains in general.
Since the word was spread around that Endeavor and LullaCry were in the city, the villains all collectively hid away.
"Ah, it's like if you want someone to show up, they purposely disappear from you," Ayame sighed, reaching down to grab her juice from the vending machine. Next to her, Todoroki leaned against the wall to wait.
"If it was this easy to find the Hero Killer, the pros would have done it by now," he commented.
It had been two days already since they began their search. So far, there had been no sightings again regarding the Hero Killer and any other villain activities have been halted. It was as if they were afraid with the Number Two Pro Hero around.
Ayame shrugged and straightened up, wet brown hair hanging on the pink towel around her neck. She unscrewed the bottle and took a huge swig, sighing in relief at the juice and tilted her head to Todoroki. It wasn't on purpose they had met up outside their hotel room. Ayame wanted to buy a drink and Todoroki wanted to get away from his father. Spending a whole day patrolling with him was vexing as it was.
"Are you avoiding your dad?" Ayame couldn't help but ask, looking over his casual white shirt he changed from his hero outfit. Even she had showered and wore a simple purple shirt for pajamas.
"I just needed a breather," Todoroki slowly moved his eyes away. The shirt was a slight low cut.
"Then, do you want to come to my room?" Ayame had asked without thinking, not completely comprehending the question.
Todoroki gave her a bewildered expression but based off the innocent eyes she gave him, he knew she thought nothing of it. Shouldn't she be a little bit more on guard…
"I brought a deck of cards," Ayame grinned, "Three players are more fun with any card games!"
She turned on her heels and began to lead the way back to the room. Todoroki looked over her and sighed mentally. If this was any school trip, they would be deeply reprimanded for her invitation. Ayame was really just…carefree. Does she even see him as a man?
"Yume-nee!" Ayame opened the door and held it open for Todoroki, "I brought a guest!"
"Hm?" Yume looked up from her tablet, also showered and changed into casual pajamas. "Oh, Todoroki-san. I'm sorry; did my sister drag you here?"
"Hey!"
"Ah, no," Todoroki replied politely. "She offered her assistance to me."
Yume hummed again, looking at Ayame with doubt and the younger girl crossed her arms. Ayame headed over to her bag and dug through the clothes before pulling out a blue colored deck of cards.
"C'mon! Let's play for a bit!" Ayame sat on her bed.
"You do know we have to wake up early tomorrow, right?" Yume arched an eyebrow.
"I know!" Ayame answered, "But—this will help us all unwind a bit! I feel like I was tensed the whole time."
"Oh, Aya," Yume sighed, "It's only been three days. How will you survive in the future?"
"I'll manage!"
Yume took a seat on the bed as well before two pairs of purple eyes turned his way. Slowly, Todoroki bowed politely and sat on the very edge of the bed while Ayame shuffled the deck.
And so, time passed by as they switched from one game to another. Usually, it was Ayame that was making a commotion to each game. Whether it was a game that required lying, both Yume and Todoroki was able to read her clearly. If it was a game based on luck, Ayame…surprisingly won the most.
It was simple but…enjoyable as Todoroki realized mid-game. He glanced up to see Ayame trying to swindle Yume with exaggerated movements and ridiculous stories as if she was in a RPG game. Yume pretended with her, thinking carefully about the cards in Ayame's hands and Todoroki realized the older sister was only playing along.
The two get along well. It was a relationship Todoroki never had before. He never spoke with his brothers and he rarely saw his sister. Even though they lived in the same compound, had grown up with the same father and mother, Todoroki never really sat down and interacted with them—like he was doing with Ayame and Yume.
Silently, he wondered if this was what it would be like—if his siblings had grown up with him—surrounded by loving parents that dote on them. Todoroki wondered if he would be able to laugh as joyously as Ayame or—have an older sibling dote on him like Yume.
"Ahhh, Yume-nee saw right through me," Ayame sighed in defeat before turning to Todoroki with a smile. She paused, recognizing a distant look in his eyes and leaned forward slightly. "Ne, Todoroki-kun? Are you tired?"
He blinked, mismatched eyes looking up again to see Ayame near him. The bed had sunk in slightly by her weight, causing Todoroki to slip just an inch towards her but—it was enough to snap him out of his thoughts. It was enough to bring him back to reality—away from the thoughts he had not toyed with for years.
"No," Todoroki looked away. "Thank you for inviting me, senpai." And he really meant it.
"Oh my," Yume glanced at the clock, "It's already this late… Todoroki-san, you should head off to bed."
"But we haven't finished the game—"
"Aya, walk him out," Yume smiled yet Ayame knew it was a tone that left none for discussion.
She sighed and Todoroki set down his cards. Together, they headed out the door that was just around the corner.
"I'll see you tomorrow, Todoroki-kun," Ayame smiled.
He nodded his head and opened the door, turning back to glance at his upperclassman.
"Goodnight, Ayame-senpai." He left with a whisper.
Ayame had been acting weird. Well, 'weird' for Ayame hadn't been that surprising but—for whatever reason, she had been spacing out a lot. It wasn't that noticeable compared to her regular self but because Yume was her sister, she can read through her habits completely.
Yume watched as Ayame was spacing out, for the 10th time that day, lost in thought and barely looking at where she was going. There was a moment where Ayame paused, shook her head repeatedly, put a hand to her chin while thinking, then nod—and shake her head again.
In the end, Ayame just groaned and sigh, leaving Yume absolutely amused at her little sister and want to know what was going on in her head. But, Ayame didn't mention anything and as night fell, they met up with Endeavor and Todoroki again. She greeted them with a slight smile and looked off to the side afterwards as they began to grab a quick dinner.
"Shoto."
Endeavor handed Todoroki a small plate of food yet the younger boy ignored him, buying his own (different) food to walk away from his father. Ayame blinked at their interaction, though not surprised as this had happened the past few days already, and Todoroki ended up sitting next to her and Yume. The sisters were close, as always, and Todoroki had usually joined them since Ayame invited him. Endeavor looked slightly put off but he came to them as well with two plates of food.
Ayame looked between the father-son pair and yet had nothing to say. One part of her understood Todoroki's attitude towards Endeavor yet another part of her couldn't help but imagine her own father receiving the cold treatment. Endeavor definitely deserved it but—Ayame swore she saw a flash of disappointment in the fiery hero's eyes whenever Todoroki ignored him.
She bit her lips and looked down. It wasn't her business anyways… She should have learned by now on not to interpose herself on other people's lives. Slowly, her eyes landed on Todoroki's calm appearance.
The whisper he left last night with the sound of her name replayed in her mind. She quickly looked down to focus on her hamburger and ignored the slight heat rushing to her cheeks. Why the hell should her name be embarrassing?! And—was it just her or—did he technically hint at her to call him by his name, too? Maybe she was just overthinking it?!
Yume glanced at her sister again and suppressed a laugh. Aya…what faces are you making right now?
After dinner, the four of them patrolled within the city. Night had fallen and the streets were bustling with people but, most of them had stepped to the side at the sight of Endeavor. Even Yume's gentle smiles could not deter the civilians and only a selected few were brave enough to wave. Ayame walked with Todoroki, looking around attentively for any sights of villains or the Hero Killer.
Suddenly, a loud crash and explosion came from the north. The four of them startled and a radio crackling echoed on Endeavor and Yume's belt. They brought up the communicator device and listened to the reports. Todoroki and Ayame looked at each other in shock—then to their family members.
"Villains have appeared in the city," Yume said seriously.
"Is it the Hero Killer?" Ayame gaped.
"No. He wouldn't create a huge scene like this. It doesn't matter," Endeavor turned around and began to run. Everyone followed him close behind. "Follow me, Shoto! I'll show you what it means to be a hero!"
"Ayame, stay close behind," Yume instructed as they ran forward.
At that time, her phone buzzed with a message. Ayame furrowed her eyebrows and brought the phone out the same time Todoroki did. The first thing they saw was Midoriya's message in the group chat but…it was only a location sent to them.
"Deku-kun?" Ayame mumbled to herself.
"It's just his location…" Todoroki's eyes widened.
"Shoto! Don't look at your phone, look at me!" Endeavor called back.
In a flash, Todoroki grabbed Ayame's hand and—ran. Ayame gasped, nearly dropped her phone in alarm but she turned around to follow Todoroki. Something—felt off.
"Ayame?!"
"Where are you going, Shoto?!"
"An alleyway at 4-2-10 Ekou Street. If you finish what you're doing or find any free pros, send them there. I'm leaving you to take care of the trouble. I'm sure you'll be able to resolve it quickly," Todoroki answered without looking back.
"I'll go with them," Yume ran as well.
"Todoroki-kun—do you think—something happened to Deku-kun?" Ayame asked, running beside him and glanced back to see her sister follow them.
"Maybe," he answered with a frown, "We're going to confirm."
"Un."
Crowds of people ran by them, screaming and shouting as they passed another major street. Ayame looked back to see—a weird Nomu-like creature—in the middle of the road. She gasped and stopped running, grabbing Todoroki by his arm to stop and point towards the monster.
"Isn't that—the Nomu?!" Ayame stared wide eyed at the creature.
"What…is that thing doing here?" Todoroki glared at the creature.
"Heroes—please, help!"
Yume stopped, her eyes widen at the rampaging creature, fire and broken pavement everywhere. She looked torn between the students and at the screaming civilians. Realizing what she was hesitant about, Ayame turned to her sister strongly.
"You have to go save them, Yume-nee!" Ayame let go of Todoroki's hand to push Yume in the Nomu's direction. "We fought against something similar to that before—and it's dangerous! You—if it's your Quirk—you can subdue it!"
Her sister was strong, she knew. If it was Yume's Dream Quirk, then Ayame believed she can accomplish anything. Protecting the civilians was a hero's top priority! She can't let her sister waver because of her!
"We'll be okay," Ayame assured again, smiling her usual carefree smile as she turned back to Todoroki. "I'll keep us safe!"
"…Alright," Yume looked serious in her direction, "I'll go to you as soon as I'm done."
With that, Yume headed off in the opposite direction. Before Todoroki began running again, Ayame grabbed his hand and summoned a large ookami. She hopped on and tilted her head in the boy's direction, waiting for him. With a hop, Todoroki wrapped one hand around her waist as she gripped the smoky trails tightly and—the wolf bolted forward.
"It's okay, she'll be okay," Ayame whispered to herself. "Yume-nee is a hero—this is what she deals with everyday."
Todoroki caught onto the miniscule trembling from Ayame's body, his grip around her waist tightened just the slightest. He leaned over her shoulder as the wolf continued to run.
"It'll be fine," he reaffirmed, "She's strong—just like you."
Ayame faced forward and nodded, silently thankful for the wind to cool her warm cheeks. Todoroki noticed the red ears but said nothing of it as he glanced at his phone and instructed Ayame on where to turn.
The area they arrived at were less crowded, no civilians around as they dashed closer to the location. There was a dark alleyway in front and with a gulp, the ookami dashed forward.
A small speck of a figure appeared to be standing, long blood-red scarf floating behind him. There was someone just right below his feet and a speck of green lying down behind. Wide lilac eyes focused in front to see a sharp sword pointed down—ready to pierce through the boy below him.
Ayame grabbed Todoroki's hand around her waist and they fell down from the ghostly ookami, leaving the wolf to charge straight at the strange man and—knocked him back.
"One after another…" The man slid to a stop and slashed its sword through the wolf, cutting it and causing it to disappear instantly. "There are a lot of people getting in my way today."
Ayame finally deciphered the figures. The green speck was Midoriya and the one lying face down was…Iida?! What was he doing here?!
"Midoriya. You need to give more details in times like this. You made me late," Todoroki stood back up, his feet shifting slightly in watchfulness.
"T-Todoroki-kun? And S-senpai?" Iida was shocked.
"Why…are you two here?" Midoriya gasped.
"Why? That's my line," Todoroki frowned. "It took me a few seconds to figure out what you meant since you sent just your location info. You're not really one to send that for no reason."
"Are you guys okay?" Ayame stepped forward slowly, "Don't worry, we're here now!"
At that, ice spread forward from Todoroki to lift the Pro Hero Native, Midoriya, and Iida up. Ayame conjured two wolves and have them leap forward, keeping the other villain at bay. As she focused more on him, she couldn't help but shiver… This guy…looked dangerous.
"You meant that you were in trouble and to call for help, right? Don't worry. The pros will also get here in a few minutes," Todoroki ran forward as the ice allowed the immobilize people to slide down.
Ayame and Todoroki stood before the three fallen people protectively. This was definitely…more than what she expected. Her eyes focused forward again; there was no time for fear.
"You're…the Hero Killer, aren't you?" Ayame finally realized. The man was wrapped in bandages with a blood soaked scarf. He carried multiple knives and swords on him, masking up a fearsome villain image with just a glance.
"Senpai, Todoroki-kun, you can't let this guy see your blood! I think he controls his opponents' actions by ingesting their blood orally," Midoriya explained. "That's how he got all of us!"
Ayame shivered. Why was this about blood again!?
"He sucks blood to keep people from moving… That's why he uses blade, huh?" Todoroki examined. "We'll keep our distance and—"
A small blade flew forward and scratched Todoroki's cheek. Ayame's eyes widen as she turned to him—and then quickly shoving him out of the way right as Stain appeared before them. Stain swiped at her with a sword and Ayame quickly ducked to avoid the blade. They all looked up to see the katana flying up and—in her distraction, Stain got her.
"You have good friends, Ingenium!"
He grabbed Ayame with a start, a loud cry escaped from her lips as he slammed her head into the wall. She felt her brain rattle around as pain suddenly took over her whole body from the sudden attack.
"I normally don't kill girls but…you're in the way."
"Ayame!"
A burst of flame shot towards Stain right as he jumped away. Ayame fell down with a gasp. She gripped her right temple and winced; a warm wetness coated her palm and fingers and slid down her cheek. Her eyes widened at the fresh blood and looked up to see the flames dissipating.
He's…using his flames?
Blocks of ice appeared in front of Ayame to protect her as she tried to focus back on the fight. Todoroki and Stain were battling yet the Hero Killer was strong enough to slice through his ice. With a hiss, Ayame summoned the kitsune and have it dash forward to assist Todoroki.
Stain was strong by himself. He was fast—faster than any of Ayame's classmates and was powerful. He was able to slice through the ice as if it was nothing—and he was not relenting against Ayame's summon, easily stabbing through them and causing it to disappear. Her head was hurting so much—and Ayame couldn't believe she got hurt already!
This isn't good, Ayame winced as she summoned another ookami. But this time, the wolf seemed more unstable, the smoky trails ghosting around more than usual.
"Why are you two…" Iida began, watching from his position on the floor to see Todoroki fight with both ice and fire. Ayame was leaning against the wall with a hand clutching her bleeding forehead, lilac eyes focused on Stain and one hand moving up to control the summon. "Why… Please, stop! I've inherited my brother's name. I have to do it… That guy's mine!"
Iida-kun… Ayame frowned.
"You inherited it? That's strange," Todoroki's flames dissipated and he slammed his hand down, a wall of ice appearing from the ground and forcing Stain to retreat. With the ice, the wolf jumped up and around it, chasing after the villain. "The Ingenium I saw before didn't have that look on his face, though. You've got a lot going on behind the scenes in your family, too, huh?"
"It's okay, Iida-kun," Ayame turned around to smile at him. "We're here now! You don't have to do this alone!"
Stain slashed through the blocks of ice and the wolf. Ayame moved to reconstruct the wolf into a tengu, chasing after Stain as he jumped forward.
"To block your own view against an opponent faster than you… What a foolish plan," Stain sneered.
"I wonder about that," Todoroki's left hand burst into flames again but—two knives were thrown to his arm and extinguished the flames.
"You're pretty good, too."
Ayame's eyes widened and ran forward, the tengu joined her hand and reconstructed to a serpent coiling around her arm. She punched Stain right before he can stab Todoroki—standing in front of him protectively.
"Stay away from them!"
Stain flew backwards and flipped midair, regaining his balance on the wall and then—ricocheted off to dash to her. Ayame blocked his sword with her serpent coiled arms, wincing at how he managed to cut into the serpent and—through her skin.
"You look like you're in pain, little girl," Stain scorned.
"Hah? I'm not little," the serpent grew and wrapped around Stain's arms, forcing the pressure to lessen from Ayame just the slightest. She turned to glance behind her, lilac eyes meeting heterochromia ones as she said, "R-run!"
"How can you tell others to run when you're hurting this much?" Stain sneered and pressed down on her arm.
Ayame screamed again, the serpent flickering but she held on. Her eyes returned back to bloodthirsty crimson ones, glaring back at him as the serpent slithered onto Stain's arms and leading to his torso.
"Because I'll hold you back!"
Their eyes widen by her declaration. Ayame was willing to sacrifice herself for them. But—that wasn't what they wanted! Trapped in place, a blur of green dashed past Ayame and slammed into Stain. Ayame gasped as the pressure from the sword disappeared, eyes looking towards Midoriya nearly glowing and—forcing Stain back.
"Deku-kun!"
"I can move normally for some reason now!" Midoriya shouted.
Todoroki appeared by her side while clutching his left arm. "A time limit?"
"No, that kid should've been the last one he got," Native responded from behind. "I can't move yet."
Stain elbowed Midoriya and he finally let go. Midoriya fell down while Stain jumped back.
"Get back, Midoriya!"
Ice rushed forward but Stain jumped away. Ayame conjured another tengu for aerial support while Midoriya ran back to their side. Stain clicked his tongue and—brought the bloodied sword up to his lips.
Ayame shivered from his Quirk and suddenly—she felt her knees buckle beneath her and—she lost her strength. Before she fell, Todoroki shifted his body so she leaned on him, gasping at the slight cold from his right side as he slowly set her down.
"M-my body—"
He eyed her bloody arm and temple, frowning at the sight of it before gently setting her down. Todoroki brushed back the tan fringes from the blood and angled her head so the injury wouldn't touch the ground.
"I know. We can handle this," he reassured.
But Ayame was supposed to be the one protecting them! She frowned from the unbearable pain, teary lilac eyes looked up at Todoroki slowly standing up in front of her bravely.
This wasn't supposed to happen!
"He takes in a person's blood to keep them from moving," Midoriya explained slowly, "Since I got free first… I can think of three possible reasons. It could be less effective with more people, the amount ingested could affect how long it works, or there could be a difference in effectiveness based on a person's blood type!"
"Blood type…? Mine is B…" Native answered.
"I'm type A…" Iida said.
"Mine is B as well," Ayame forced out to say.
"Blood type?" Stain grinned, "That's correct."
Ayame resisted the shiver from Stain. Midoriya…was really amazing too.
"I can't really do anything just by knowing his Quirk, though," Midoriya frowned.
"I wanted to hurry up and carry those three out of here, but he can react so fast, he can avoid ice and fire. I can't leave myself that open," Todoroki said. "I think our best option is to hold on by avoiding close combat until the pros get here."
Ayame cursed mentally. She didn't want to be a burden to them! Her eyes closed in concentration, trying to summon a giant creature. It would be easier if she can call upon that All Might but—Ayame couldn't even remember how she did it! It was already difficult trying to concentrate with her injuries and headache so—she could only rely on what she summoned often.
"Don't worry about us!" Ayame's voice brought them to glance behind them. There, they saw the usual ookami circling the three of them protectively. "I can…still do this much…!"
A slight surprise flashed by their faces but quickly, they turned back to Stain. At least Ayame can still summon something but—how strong can it be?
"Todoroki-kun, you've already shed too much blood. I'll distract him, so you can support me from behind!" Midoriya began to glow again.
"That's a pretty big risk…but, yeah." Todoroki clenched his fists, "The two of us will protect them!"
Iida, I've been worried about you since your older brother was attacked because I know well the face of someone who would act on pent-up resentment… Todoroki sent ice after Midoriya dashing towards Stain. I also know just how narrow the field of vision can get for someone like that.
Midoriya dashed around the narrow alleyway to throw Stain off then jumped down to punch him. However, Stain moved again, dodging right to slash at Midoriya. Todoroki's ice supported him then, blocking his movement before a wave of fire shot his way.
Damn it, he's slippery, Ayame glared at Stain dodging all of their attacks.
Midoriya slowed and Stain managed to leave a cut on his leg. She gasped as the villain jumped to Midoriya, looking absolutely thrilled and crazy to kill someone. Todoroki's flames stopped him again, forcing Stain back and Ayame wished she could just move!
"Please stop…"
They turned to glance at Iida's quiet voice. Ayame was startled by his tears, eyes widening by his shocking emotions.
"I'm…already…"
"If you want us to stop, then stand up!" Todoroki yelled.
Stain licked his blade again and Midoriya fell down. The villain jumped before Todoroki with the blades in hand and Todoroki pulled his arm back, bursting in flames. Ayame looked on worriedly and the ookami moved forward.
"Look properly at what you want to be!"
Todoroki was doing his best to keep Stain at bay by himself. Ayame was worried—anxious—and scared for Todoroki. The Hero Killer was able to dexterity dodge all of Todoroki's attack. No ice and no flames were able to brush upon him. Midoriya was immobile like them and—she knew her ookami wasn't as sturdy as before. It was even a miracle Ayame could keep its form with her bleeding head.
"No one's ever told you? You're too focused on your Quirk. You're being careless!" Stain laughed and—appeared right in front of Todoroki. The sword was positioned right in front of his chest—ready to slice him in half.
Ayame's eyes widened.
"Shoto!"
A/N:
Did you guys expect them to be interning together? Todoroki and Ayame have a lot more interactions now and we're finishing up season 2! I would not go in detail with 1-A's final exams like the end of the season but I will write a chapter dedicated to Ayame's final exam! That means…more original content for 2-A lol I hope it's not too boring for you all TvT
Reviews are much loved! I definitely need a pick-me-up but it's optional~ Thanks for reading!
Also, sorry for the late update! I was at a convention to attend the past weekend.