Disclaimer: I do not own Boku no Hero Academia.
An engine roared next to her ear. Ayame's eyes widened when a blur sped past her—then to the villain and Todoroki's figure. The sword snapped in half and Todoroki was safe as she looked wide eyed on Iida's speedy figure. He kicked Stain away from Todoroki and landed on his feet, ready to fight.
"Iida-kun!" Midoriya and Ayame shouted in relief.
"You got free?" Todoroki asked. "That Quirk isn't as great as I thought.
"Senpai, Todoroki-kun, and Midoriya-kun. This has nothing to do with you three, and I apologize," Iida began shakily.
"You're saying that again?" Midoriya asked from his position a little further away.
"Iida-kun—we want to help," Ayame reassured from the floor as well. But, I wish I could do more!
"That's why I can't allow you three to bleed more than this!" Iida straightened up with a new resolve in his eyes. It was a surprised—but much welcomed. Iida doesn't have the same loathing tone in his voice anymore.
"It's no use trying to be reformed for appearance's sake," Stain's blade was broken in half, blood dripping from his hand as he faced the two standing heroes. "A person's essence does not change so easily. You will never be anything but a fake who prioritizes his own selfish desires. You are a cancer to society that warps the idea of 'heroes'. Someone must set you straight."
"You're wrong!" Ayame shouted, "People are always constantly changing around us—but it's not up for you to decide on how they should or not!"
"You're an anachronistic fundamentalist," Todoroki argued back. "Iida, don't listen to the logic of a murderer."
"No, he's right."
They gaped at Iida's back, his left shoulder still dripping with blood as he looked down.
"I have no right to call myself a hero…"
What—why? Ayame may have arrived late to the scene but—she had a gist of the idea for Iida's torment. He…must have sought out Stain—because of his brother, right? Because Ingenium…couldn't be a hero anymore—then Iida was the one to inherit the name? In Ayame's eyes—what Iida did was understandable…
If she was in his shoes—if Yume was the one to be injured—Ayame definitely…wouldn't let the perpetrator go!
"Even so, I cannot give in. If I give in, then Ingenium will die."
Ayame looked at Iida in silent shock. He…wasn't fighting for revenge anymore. Somehow, Todoroki and Midoriya must have gotten into him. Iida looked as if he was fighting—to protect.
"Out of the question."
Stain ran forward and Todoroki shoved Iida aside, his left hand blazing with a large scale fire in the villain's direction."
"Idiot! The Hero Killer is after me and that kid in white armor, right? Don't fight back! It'd be better if you ran away!" Native said from besides her.
"What kind of hero would run away?!" Ayame gaped.
"It doesn't look like he'll give me an opening to do that," Todoroki scowled, "Something clearly changed just now. He's flustered."
Stain jumped off the wall and towards the ice. Todoroki shifted his feet and ice expanded his way, forcing stain to hack and slash away. Stain was trying to approach them but Todoroki continued to mix fire and ice together, leaving the villain to act recklessly.
Iida turned to Todoroki and asked to cool down his exhaust. In their direction, Stain threw a dagger towards Todoroki.
"Watch out!"
Iida blocked the blade with his own arm as it pierced his armor. Ayame gaped and tried to move but—her body was still immobile like Native. She cursed herself—how much longer until she can be free?!
Focus, focus, Ayame chanted, her vision beginning to blur before her. It was difficult to make out the shapes of their figures as Iida fell down. From the very corner of the alley, Ayame could almost see the blurred figure of Midoriya standing up again. Damn it…they're all fighting so hard! I—have to do something, too!
Stain was still fighting along the wall while Todoroki continued to blast fire and ice. Ayame's vision was getting worse as blood continued to leak from her temple. She looked up weakly—to see a bright light from Iida's engine before he burst forward—and up. From the side, Midoriya glowed a lightning green and rushed forward.
"If I just…"
The three met in midair with Stain in the middle. The villain looked flustered by the two quick oncoming attacks, looking between the two students in alarm.
"Go!" Todoroki looked on hopefully, Ayame's soft voice echoing his words.
"…have my leg…"
"…have my fist…"
"That's all I need right now!"
Iida kicked and Midoriya punched the other side of Stain.
They stopped him!
The three of them began to fall and Todoroki's flames began to flare even more. Yet—Stain wasn't done when he grabbed the floating sword from midair—swinging at Iida's head and cut off—a few strands of hair.
"I will defeat you!" Iida declared. "This time, you, as a criminal—"
"Keep after him!" Todoroki yelled and shot his flamethrower upwards.
Iida's engine roared and he kicked Stain up.
"And I, as a hero!"
The flames engulfed Stain, leaving him motionless. Midoriya and Iida continued to fall but, Ayame had enough time for her ookami to run forward. The large wolf jumped up and caught the two boys right as ice appeared to line with the wall. The ookami slid down the ice slide and gently put the boys down.
"Stand up! He's still…" Todoroki warned.
Yet, Stain was not moving again. He was trapped and lifted by Todoroki's ice. Even his scarf was hanging downwards and they were barely able to tell if he was alive if not for the subtle rise and fall on his back.
"He's probably knocked out after all that…right?" Midoriya slowly stood up.
"Then, let's restrain him and get out of the street. Is there anything to tie him up with?" Todoroki instructed.
"Just in case, let's take all his weapons off him," Midoriya replied.
"Good idea."
Midoriya and Todoroki began to take out the blades from Stain's unconscious body. Within that time, Native was finally able to move again, struggling to stand up as he walked over to the only girl here.
"Hey—are you okay?" Native kneeled down to pat Ayame's back.
Todoroki looked over when Ayame didn't respond. He stood up, abandoning the rest of the task to rush over to the brunette. Her eyes were closed to the world, breathing soft and eyebrows creased in pain. Native quietly left the two, going to assist Iida in finding ropes to tie up Stain.
"Ayame," Todoroki whispered, his fingers brushed over her cheek, trailing upwards to swipe the bloody hair away from her forehead.
"Mm," Ayame weakly opened her eyes to see Todoroki before her. He was kneeled down by her side, eyes of grey and turquoise looking down at her with slight worry. She gave him a weak smile and closed her eyes again. "S-sorry… I'm…a bit, tired…"
Now that the threat of Stain was not prominent, Ayame finally felt herself relax. The last summon of her ookami took a lot of concentration. With her pounding head and Stain's Quirk slowly leaving her system, Ayame just felt worn.
"Ah," Todoroki let out a barely audible sigh. "Hang in there. I'll be done soon."
"Mm."
Todoroki bounded Stain's hands behind his back tightly along with his whole body. Native went over to the sitting Midoriya and hoisted him up onto his back.
"Native-san…you can move?" Midoriya asked dazedly.
"Yeah, I'm okay now," Native reassured. "You hurt your legs, right? Let me do this, at least."
"Th-thank you very much," Midoriya said.
"That's my line."
"That should secure it," Todoroki finished up the rope and stood up.
"Todoroki-kun, I'll pull it!" Iida insisted.
Todoroki moved to reject but paused, his eyes landing on the fallen Ayame from the side. Iida followed his eyes to see his upperclassman as well, both hesitant about the current situation. Iida's arms were injured from the continuous attack; he wouldn't be able to carry or drag anyone.
"Here," Midoriya turned around to smile at them. "I can help pull the rope, too."
Todoroki nodded his head and handed the rope off to Iida. As soon as the taller boy held it, Todoroki went over to Ayame again. Carefully, he shook Ayame, watching her stir from the movement and familiar lilac eyes opened to greet him.
"I'm going to lift you onto my back," Todoroki carefully explained, watching her hazy eyes follow his lips.
"Okay," Ayame smiled faintly, "I trust you."
His hand twitched.
Slowly, Todoroki helped Ayame to sit up. Her hands were on his shoulders as he turned around, giving her strength to lean forward on his back. A small whimper left her lips at the cut over her right arm; the blood clouded over and around the injury, making it hard to determine how deep it was. Todoroki frowned again, averting his eyes away from the blood and hooked his hands under her thighs.
Ayame rested her head on his shoulder, eyes closing again for rest as Todoroki carefully adjusted her weight. She wasn't particularly heavy but she also wasn't paper thin light. It felt—just right.
"Oi, don't fall asleep yet," despite his words, Todoroki's tone felt soft.
"I'm…not," Ayame answered, her voice right next to his ear.
Todoroki tensed again but continued to walk behind the rest of the group. Midoriya and Iida glanced back to affirm their status, sharing one look with each other before looking back front. They quietly discussed the recent fight amongst themselves, silently thankful for the Hero Killer's blunder of attacks. Even then, they knew they had barely won.
"…sorry."
Todoroki turned his head just the slightest, feeling the meek mumble come from his shoulder. He walked just a step slower as the others continued to the street.
"I…didn't…do anything, again…" Ayame murmured, her cheek nearly touching his ear. "I…was supposed…to protect you."
But, again, Ayame couldn't. Just like USJ and—now. Todoroki had been the one to rescue her. He had been the one to battle from the beginning to end. What was the point of her winning the Sports Festival when—she's still as weak as before?
"You did, Ayame," Todoroki answered back steadily. Again, she was blaming herself for a situation beyond her control. "I don't need the constant protection."
Ah, maybe she really was too weak for her underclassmen to doubt her. Todoroki has always been strong by himself. He didn't need any protection from her in the first place.
Then...what about her win in the Sports Festival? Fighting against classmates was infinitely different from fighting a real villain—with the intent to kill. How will she get stronger at this rate?
"What I mean is," sensing her disquiet mood, Todoroki quickly moved to explain, "I can…protect you, too."
Her eyes slowly opened; his face just centimeters from hers. If Ayame was more lucid, she would have reacted more than a slow blink. Instead, she smiled and tilted her head towards him just the slightest.
"Mm, thanks…Shoto-kun."
He felt her relax into his arms yet Todoroki felt tenser. With just one word, one name, Ayame was able to break through his guard. She was doing odd things to his stomach and calm facade. Although Todoroki initially had lightly teased her on their names before, he wasn't expecting this reaction.
And this girl…she's still sleeping peacefully on him. Kirishima had also carried her on his back before. She had seen that Shimizu heir shirtless. And—how was Takarada also able to flip her so easily during their match?
Does Ayame not know to be cautious around guys?
So absorbed in his thoughts, they hadn't noticed Gran Torino appearing to reprimand Midoriya. Todoroki had caught up with the rest of the group, mismatched eyes seeing a small group of heroes rush over. From the distance, he recognized the dark brunette hair of LullaCry running over; her eyes were focused on the girl on his back.
"Ayame!"
Ayame stirred again yet had no strength to raise her head. Her eyes peeked open to her sister and smiled weakly.
"Hey, nee-chan," she greeted casually.
Yume gaped at the blood. On Ayame's temple—on her right arm—and she couldn't believe her sister was this hurt—when she was gone—for barely ten minutes! The Nomu had taken more energy out of Yume than anticipated. The weird creature—was barely affected by her Dream Quirk. It was like his consciousness was too unfocused for her Quirk to take effect.
It was at times like these; Yume wished her Quirk was stronger, too.
"What happened?" Yume looked at Todoroki sternly. The boy looked off to the side, eyes landing to the tied up Hero Killer and Yume understood with a glance. They had somehow—unexpectedly—ran into the Hero Killer. Was that why they ran off earlier?!
"Not…his fault," Ayame whispered again, head knocking into Todoroki's as she struggled to stay awake, "My bad."
Yume looked like she wanted to argue but held back, staring at the blood trail slowly dripping from Ayame. Todoroki met violet eyes then, not backing down from her hard stare at Ayame.
"Senpai did what she can to protect m—us. If you are going to scold her then, please include me too," Todoroki bowed his head.
At that time, Midoriya and Iida walked to stand besides Todoroki. Both also bowed their head despite their injuries, startling Yume at the three 1-A boys.
"It was my own problems that dragged everyone into this. Please do not be angry at Ayame-senpai!" Iida begged.
"The ambulance will be here soon," Midoriya shyly looked up, "Senpai will be okay!"
Yume blinked at all three of them, slowly easing her shoulders and sighed instead. These kids… Have they always been this reckless?
"Aya, you have such good kouhais," Yume shook her head. She let out a helpless smile and that was enough for the boys to know Yume was not truly mad. The older sister looked at Todoroki expectantly and held out her hands, ready to accept Ayame.
Todoroki blinked and paused. It took him one second longer than necessary to understand what Yume meant but—that one second did not pass by Yume's eyes. She watched as he carefully shifted his position so Ayame can rest on Yume's back instead. Ayame stirred, lilac eyes opening briefly again to see the exchange before closing her eyes again.
"'m tired, nee-chan," Ayame whispered drowsily.
"I know, Aya," Yume comforted, "It's okay. It looks worse than it appears…you'll be okay."
At that, everyone let out a breath they hadn't realized they were holding. Knowing their upperclassman was going to be alright had eased their minds. Slowly, Iida turned to Todoroki and Midoriya again, bowing at the waist to apologize.
"You were all injured because of me. I am truly sorry," tears weld up in Iida's eyes as he looked at the blurry concrete. Because of his vengeance, he dragged everyone into it, nearly causing them to be killed in the process. "I couldn't…see anything…through my anger."
They were quiet, hearing the strangled sobs from Iida. Midoriya moved to speak yet before he can, a hand reached out to pat Iida's head. They froze and looked at the still tired Ayame, her unhurt hand rubbing Iida's dark hair lightly.
"Silly, Iida-kun," Ayame said quietly but couldn't follow up anymore. Her hand dropped from his head, eyes closed but silently listening.
"I am sorry, too," Midoriya followed up. "Even though you were feeling so cornered, I didn't notice at all. Even though we're friends…"
"Pull yourself together. You're the class rep, right?" Todoroki said.
"Un," Iida bit back another sob and wiped his tears.
No one interrupted their little moment and it finally felt like they have a moment of peace.
But whenever they felt the calm after the storm, they forget the aftermath of the destruction.
A high pitched screech reached their ears, powerful flapping sounds directly above them.
"Get down!" Gran Torino shouted at the sight of a bleeding flying creature dive down.
"A villain?!"
It reached down to grab two figures easiest to reach. Midoriya felt his feet lift off the ground, emerald eyes widen in alarm as he saw the ground getting farther away. Ayame gasped from the sudden jolt, her hand reached down and felt—a pair of hands grab onto her uninjured arm. She opened her eyes just in time to see Todoroki pull her away from the flying Nomu's grasp, her cape was ripped from her neck by the sudden save.
"Sho—"
Ayame crashed into Todoroki and they fell down on the ground together. He ended up being the cushion for her and Ayame groaned from the movement, feeling her head rattle even more in pain. She felt a slight ache around her waist, barely registering the hands he wrapped around her body for protection, and leaned against him.
"Hey!"
"Midoriya-kun!" Iida yelled.
"There's blood! Did he escape here after being beaten?"
Seeing that her sister was fine, Yume chased after the flying creature. She got the lasso from her waist and threw it—aiming for the legs or wings or even the boy! But the gust of wind from the Nomu sent the whip flying back uselessly.
The creature suddenly screamed and lost flight. Right before all of their eyes, a dark blur of red and black dashed forward to jump and stab at the Nomu.
"This society overgrown with fake heroes…and the criminals who wave their power around idly…"
The creature fell down with blood splattering everywhere. Stain ripped Midoriya out of the Nomu's grasp before twisting the knife into the creature's brain.
"…should all be purged."
Everyone was frozen as they saw Stain ruthlessly murder the creature. Even with all of his injuries—Stain still fought against the Nomu.
"…to create a more just society."
They could feel the resentment and determination from the Hero Killer as he shakily stood up. Ayame could barely hear the exchange yet—she felt herself shiver from the pure bloodlust. Todoroki could do nothing but hold on, his heterochromia eyes watching him for any sudden movement. Against this many heroes—they should all have a chance—right?!
"He saved the boy?!"
"Idiot, he took a hostage!"
"He killed someone with no hesitation…"
"Anyway, get ready to fight for now!"
Ayame peek one lilac eye out at Midoriya. Her heart was a jumbling mess with worry at a hostage situation, mumbling a quiet 'Deku-kun' yet could not do anymore. She really hated being this weak right now…!
"Let him go, Stain," Yume walked bravely forward, her Quirk was ready to activate any moment now.
"Lul…la…Cry," Stain eerily croaked out, "You…are a hero…I want to avoid. But—I will kill you—too!"
Ayame tensed and attempted to move but Todoroki's strong hold wouldn't let up. She could only watch her sister stand before all of them, her hand clenching around the whip tightly.
"I don't…need my eyes…to fight—you!"
At that, Stain closed his to prevent her Quirk from taking effect. Yume startled yet scowled, knowing that the easy way to end this would not be effective.
"What's everyone standing around for?"
Todoroki glanced back to see his flaming father approach them. He could feel himself relax just the slightest. Even if he was a terrible father—he was still the Number Two Hero. He will be able to handle the Hero Killer.
"Endeavor…" Stain growled out. The bandages around his fell down and Endeavor looked nearly…excited to fight.
"Endeavor-san—wait!" Yume called out.
Stain finally let go of Midoriya to be left on the ground before turning to all of them. Without his bandages on, everyone could see the hatred he felt towards all of them. Drool was leaking from the side of his mouth, dozens of wrinkles appeared to crease over his brow and—crimson red eyes were glaring at all of them.
"You fake…"
A blood red moon hung behind him. Even Todoroki could feel the bloodlust and will from the Hero Killer as he stared at them with glowing red eyes.
"I must make things right… Someone must be dyed in blood…!"
Even with all the heroes gathered around, no one was able to step forward to meet Stain. They could feel their blood freeze from his intimidation, a chill going down their spine and expanding to their whole body by his glowing eyes.
"I must take back what it means to be a hero!" Stain stomped his foot down. "Come! Try and get me, you fakes!"
Even Endeavor could not help but take a step backwards.
"The only one I'll let kill me is the true hero… All Might!"
Stain's declaration mixed with his eerie magnetism had instilled fear into the heroes. They could do nothing but watch him slowly make his way towards them—like a walking corpse that could not be stopped. Even Yume could not activate her Quirk when faced against him and Ayame could do nothing but grip the front of Todoroki's shirt tightly.
A sudden ring clattered to the ground. Everyone snapped out of their frozen state as they saw the steel blade land on the floor. Stain had stopped moving, pupil-less eyes looking straight ahead without falling down.
"He's…unconscious," Endeavor said slowly.
Iida fell down right next to Todoroki; neither boys were able to move again after the intimidation. Midoriya looked on with the same frozen expression and Yume slumped down. Unable to hold on any longer, Ayame fainted.
Ayame woke up with a pounding headache. A small whimper left her lips by the pain, her eyebrows furrowing and eyelids slowly opening. Ayame attempted to move her arm as she was unable to recognize the dark surrounding, slowly feeling a slight panic within.
Where was she?
"You're awake?"
She turned her head to the side, blinking at an adjacent bed next to her. Todoroki sat up from his bed and Ayame recognized the light blue hospital garb he wore. She blinked slowly as he took three steps to her, kneeling down to observe her reaction.
"Todo…roki-kun?" Ayame asked in a daze, "What happened?"
He resisted the urge to frown. She switched names again? Wait, no, that shouldn't bother him right now.
"What do you remember?" He asked softly.
Ayame sighed and closed her eyes. Knowing that Todoroki was here meant that they had survived the night. Even though her memories were a bit fuzzy right now, Ayame knew they were not in danger.
"Met up with Yume-nee and other heroes… Stain…rescuing Deku-kun?" Ayame opened her eyes again to look towards him. "That's all."
"The ambulance and police came afterwards," Todoroki explained from there. "We received treatment for our injuries. Iida and Midoriya are also here."
At that, Ayame struggled to sit up. Todoroki quickly helped her, putting a pillow behind her back for rest and she smiled at him thankfully. Now that she was sitting up, she saw two beds on the opposite side of them. Midoriya and Iida were lying down for rest. The window on their right side illuminated the dark sky and Ayame realized it was still the odd hours at night.
"Oops," Ayame covered her mouth. "Did I wake you?"
Todoroki shook his head. "Couldn't sleep."
His mismatched eyes turned to her then, seeing the bandages wrapped around her head and over her right arm. Ayame also noticed his injuries but—it seemed like light bandages rather than a severe injury. She was secretly thankful for that as she glanced down, also noting her own bandages.
"You should rest," Todoroki advised.
He remembered what the doctors had said after bringing the fainted girl in. They were lightly scolding Ayame for not resting earlier. Due to her mild concussion, it would have been fine for the girl to sleep as she experienced no other side effects besides drowsiness and confusion. But, she held on longer than expected...though with everything happening around her, Todoroki didn't blame her for not being able to rest peacefully. Maybe Stain did hold back when fighting against her…
"Mm," she agreed quietly. Ayame did feel tired but at least she was conscious again. The only issue was that…Ayame disliked sleeping in unfamiliar places. It was fine when she had Yume as a roommate and she knew a hospital was safe but… "W-when will you guys discharge?"
Todoroki blinked at the sudden question. Ayame meekly looked down onto the bed sheets, avoiding his eyes.
"Not sure," after all, they were just admitted in the hospital that night. Sensing something wrong yet could not discern what, Todoroki continued, "…maybe in a day or two. I doubt we'll be going anywhere soon."
At that, Ayame let out a barely audible sigh. She nodded her head and slowly scooted back in bed. Todoroki once again readjusted the pillow for her and Ayame pulled up her comforter.
"Try to rest, too, Todoroki-kun," Ayame whispered.
"Ah."
Todoroki walked back to his own bed a few feet away. He glanced at Ayame again—to see her curled up within herself, facing him. Loose brown hair had fallen over her cheeks, breathing soft and lips slightly parted. She was definitely more tired than she let on but…she only relaxed after seeing him—them safe.
He lied back on the bed, his head tilted slightly to her. After a few more minutes, Todoroki also fell asleep.
The next time Ayame woke up, there was light chattering around her. She groaned and slowly opened her eyes, seeing the white ceiling of the hospital first before turning her head to the right. Todoroki was sitting on the side of his bed facing Ayame, noticing her awake first before standing up to go to her. Midoriya and Iida looked over from their beds on the other side.
"Morning," Ayame smiled and pushed herself up. For a split second, she looked down quickly to make sure her appearance was suitable, and then ran her fingers through her hair quickly. She still looks decent—right?!
"How are you feeling, senpai?" Midoriya asked with worry, wide eyes looking at her from across.
"Mm, better." Todoroki went to prop up her pillow like the night before and Ayame gave him a grateful smile. Midoriya again gave them a silent glance and, smiled to himself. "Did you guys sleep well?"
"Not really," Midoriya laughed sheepishly. "Thinking about it now…we did something amazing, huh?"
"Yeah," Todoroki agreed quietly and took the seat at the corner of Ayame's bed.
"Seeing an ending like that really makes you feel like it's a miracle we're alive," Midoriya sighed.
"You guys are seriously so strong," Ayame leaned back on her pillow, "How can I show off now?"
Midoriya smiled at the small pout on her lips, the tension easing up just the slightest with Ayame awake. Todoroki only glanced at her, the corner of his lips pulled up once before it disappeared just as fast.
"But…I think…he probably could've killed us if he'd wanted to. With my leg like this…" Midoriya trailed off.
"Yeah," Todoroki glanced at his left arm, "We were obviously left alive on purpose. You're amazing to have been able to face him after all the murderous intent directed at you, Iida."
"No, that's not it," Iida looked down. "I…"
"Oh, are you wounded kids awake?"
All four of them turned towards the door. Gran Torino walked in with Manual as the students exclaimed their name. Behind, Yume followed right after and she approached Ayame quickly, glancing at the boy sitting on her bed before turning her attention back to her sister.
"Yume-nee?" Ayame blinked.
"Hey," Yume sat on the other side of the bed, her hand reached up to pat Ayame's head. "We need to have a little talk about last night."
"H-huh?!" Ayame gaped as Yume stroke her head—then her fingers fell down to pinch her ear lightly.
"But before that, you've got a visitor," Gran Torino stared at Midoriya. At that queue, a tall man-dog in a tailored suit walked in. "Hosu's chief of police, Tsuragamae Kenji."
C-chief of police?! Ayame startled. She tried to get up along with the rest of the students but Tsuragamae assured them to stay seated.
"You must be the U.A. students who brought down the Hero Killer, right?"
"Yes," Todoroki answered politely.
"Regarding the Hero Killer we arrested… He had fairly serious injuries, with burns and broken bones, and is receiving treatment under strict guard, woof," Tsuragamae began to explain. "Since you are U.A. students, I'm sure you already know that when superpowers were still becoming the norm, the police attached high importance to leadership and standards and made sure Quirks were not used as weapons. And then, the profession of 'hero' emerged to fill that gap, woof."
Ah, Ayame remembered something like that. She had been tested in school for it too.
"For an individual's use of force and power that can easily kill others—actions that normally would be appropriate to denounce—to be accepted officially is thanks to early heroes who followed the ethics and rules of the profession, woof. Even up against the Hero Killer, for uncertified individuals to cause injury with their Quirks without specific instruction from their guardians or supervisors is a clear violation of the rules." He continued to explain without stop, "The four of you, and the Pro Heroes Endeavor, LullaCry, Manual, and Gran Torino must receive strict punishment."
Ayame gaped and turned to her sister seriously. Yume was not looking at her as she was facing Tsuragamae with respect.
"Wait a minute," Todoroki spoke up from besides her. "If Iida hadn't done anything, Native would've been killed. If Midoriya hadn't come, the two of them would've been killed. If Ayame-senpai hadn't helped, then I would've been killed. No one realized that the Hero Killer had appeared. Are you saying we should've followed the rules and watched people get killed?"
Todoroki took an angry step forward and Ayame gaped, quickly reaching out to grasp his hand. Wait—he's getting upset for the right reason but—this was the chief of police here! Todoroki paused and looked at her, a frown on his face but he didn't move again.
"Are you saying that as long as it turns out all right, it's okay to bend the rules?" Tsuragamae was unfazed by his mood.
"Isn't it a hero's job to save people?" Todoroki sneered. Ayame squeezed his hand; a silent message for him to don't do anything reckless!
"That is why you are not a full-fledged hero yet. Goodness, what are you being taught by U.A. and Endeavor?" Tsuragamae quietly criticized.
"Wait—that's not—!"
"Ayame," Yume quickly scolded and Ayame bit her tongue.
"You dog!" Todoroki moved to walk forward but Ayame held on tighter. His mismatched eyes looked down to see her hold on him but Ayame wouldn't relent, lilac eyes warning him to wait.
"Stop it. He is absolutely right," Iida tried to voice out.
"Hear him out until the end, Todoroki-san," Yume instructed calmly.
Todoroki stopped struggling yet his eyes were still glaring at the police. The hand Ayame held tightened around hers with restrained anger. Ayame didn't let go yet, worried he might slip away if she did, and everyone's attention turned back to the chief.
"That was the official opinion of the police," Tsuragamae continued as if nothing happened, "And the punishment and such would only happen if this were all made public, woof. If this were made public, you would probably be applauded by the public, but you would not be able to escape punishment. On the other hand, this is a bit underhanded, but if it is not made public, the burn scars would support Endeavor being the hero who saved the day, and it would end there, woof. Thankfully, there were very few witnesses. This violation could be crushed here, woof. But this would also mean no one would know about your good judgment or achievements. Which do you prefer?"
Everyone quietly looked on as the information settled in. This news hadn't made to the public yet and—they were trying to defend them? Wait—then what was the point in all of this? Was he trying to scare them?!
"Personally, I don't want to be the one to find fault with promising young ones because of one big mistake, woof." At that, Tsuragamae finally smiled and gave them a thumb up.
"Either way, we will need to take responsibility for being negligent in our supervisory duties," Manual sighed sadly now that the tension was gone.
Iida walked up to him, bowing at the waist to his supervisor. "I am truly sorry."
"Alright!" Manual jokingly chopped Iida's head, "You'll cause trouble for others! If you understand, then don't do it again!"
"I won't!"
"I-I'm sorry," Midoriya bowed his head.
"Please take care of it," Todoroki also bowed his head.
"S-sorry," Ayame followed along, both towards Yume and the chief.
"Because of the unfairness of adults, you will not be able to receive the praise you would probably have gotten, but at least, as someone who also protects the peace, I can say thank you." Tsuragamae bowed in return.
They were startled to have the chief of police personally thank them. Todoroki looked off to the side awkwardly.
"Please start with that next time," he mumbled.
Ayame giggle and patted his hand before letting go. Tsuragamae left after his explanation and the pro heroes stayed a little longer for the students. Ayame shakily turned to Yume; she was gonna get an earful, wasn't she?
"Okaa-san and otou-san knows, if that was what you're wondering," Yume began and Ayame gulped. "Shouta-ojisan also knows. They're currently busy; otherwise, they would have visited you by now."
"Oji-san, too?!" Ayame gaped; that was who she wanted the least to know!
"Of course," Yume said as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. "Considering how often kaa-san calls him, oji-san would be the first to know." Yume pulled out her phone and swiped through it, turning the device around to show Ayame a picture on screen.
It was a news article with a slightly faded photo from last night showing Stain apprehended. In the very corner, there was a cropped out section of the other pro heroes and students… Ayame was held in Todoroki's arms, long strands of brown hair falling over her face and back. Although the portion of them was very tiny and barely recognizable, anyone who knew them would be able to tell.
"And, this was the first article to popup before it was taken down an hour later," Yume said, "For the sake of the student's identity. Now, what was the thing you promised me before your internship started?"
Ayame sweated and looked off to the side awkwardly. "T-technically, I didn't promise anything."
"A-ya-me," Yume pronounced her name fully, "They made a new rule for me because of this. I can't take in any family members for internship in the future."
Ayame gaped, "Wha—nee-chan?! Why?!"
"Because I am too lenient with you, apparently," Yume poked her forehead, careful to not wound her, and Ayame pouted. "The doctors said you can be released tomorrow but I put in words to U.A. you will stay home to rest. I don't want you to strain yourself because of your head injury, okay?"
"Okaa-san is gonna be mad, won't she?" Ayame groaned.
"Not as mad as Shouta-oji," Yume smiled, "I have to return to work now. I'll come discharge you tomorrow but will you be able to make it home yourself?"
"I'm already better now," Ayame defended, "I can get home fine!"
"Alright," Yume smiled and stood up. She turned her attention to the rest of the students each resting on their own beds. Only Todoroki was without a pro hero by his side. "Everyone, rest well. Todoroki-san, Endeavor-san won't say it but, he's proud of you, too."
Todoroki glanced at her, slightly surprised she even mentioned his father and nodded his head. With another wave, Yume left the hospital. Manual left soon afterwards and after a few more scolding from Gran Torino, the elder also left.
A ringtone set off in the room and Midoriya turned to his phone. A sudden blush spread over his cheeks then face, at the caller ID before hastily heading out the door.
"I-I-I um, I-I'll be—back!"
Todoroki silently looked after him, then towards the brunette looking through her phone at the mass messages. The heterochromia boy got up and followed Midoriya out.
"I'll be back, too."
Ayame blinked; why did it sound like he's saying that to her?
It was quiet now. Ayame finished replying to her friends and set her phone aside, glancing at Iida and how he was quietly sitting on his bed. Carefully, Ayame swung her legs over the bed and stood up, slipping on the blue hospital slippers and walked over to him.
"S-senpai?" Iida looked up to see Ayame sit on the corner of his bed.
"Hey, how are you feeling?" She asked with a smile.
"I'm…fine," Iida looked down onto his bandaged arms. "The pain killers help put the edge off."
At his weak smile, Ayame sighed and leaned back lightly. Her eyes were focused on the ceiling as she contemplated last night. Now that she was clear headed again, little bits and pieces were coming back to her.
"I don't blame you for what happened, you know," Ayame started, "Seeking revenge for your brother… I've been thinking about it the whole internship, too. I kept thinking…if Yume-nee was the one injured, I would have done what you did."
Iida looked shocked when Ayame turned to him with the confession. She still had her usual smile on, reassuring and kind as she recalled Stain's words in reprimanding Iida and his justice.
"I mean—I'm not happy your brother got hurt—" Ayame quickly explained, "But I—understand your reasoning for it… I hope—you won't be hung up on what Stain said."
He smiled a little to himself, looking down and away from the comfort his upperclassman was trying to provide. He does believe Ayame would understand him the best in this room. She loves her sister as much as Iida loves Tensei.
"He…was right, though," Iida admitted softly, "I inherited my brother's name and yet, the first thing I did was sully it. But—I will change. I won't fight for myself. I'll fight to protect."
Ayame smiled at his resolved, nodding her head in approval. Maybe she was childish, too, for thinking about revenge. Being a hero was so much more than apprehending villains. It was their duty to keep civilians safe.
"If you ever need to talk, we'll be here," Ayame motioned towards herself and the two empty beds, "And—Hotaru-chan, too!"
Iida startled by the sudden name and Ayame grinned. Before she can tease him anymore, the door opened to reveal a doctor and nurse walking in.
"Iida Tenya-san," the doctor smiled in greeting, "I am here for your examination."
At that, Ayame quickly hopped off the bed. "Oh! I should probably go."
"It's alright, senpai. You should rest," Iida reassured.
"We can pull the curtain around him," the doctor nodded towards the curtain and the nurse moved to close it. Ayame returned back to her bed and watched as the curtain close before going back on her phone.
"Midoriya."
Midoriya ended the phone call with Ochako and turned back to see Todoroki waiting for him. He gaped, wondering how long he had been waiting there and still trying to calm the nerves from speaking with Ochako.
"Y-yes?"
Todoroki stayed silently for a moment, glancing out the window as a few other patients and guests walked around.
"I understand if it is a little late in asking," Todoroki said steadily, one grey eye glanced towards him, "But…may I ask, what did Ayame-senpai say to my old man?"
Midoriya blinked, and blinked again. He rubbed his ears, thinking that he misheard, but Todoroki's straightforward face was still the same. Midoriya gaped.
"If you don't remember, that's fine," Todoroki moved to turn away.
No, Midoriya definitely remembers.
"'Todoroki Shoto is his own person'," Todoroki paused and glanced back to see Midoriya smile lightly, "'He is not a creation. In the future, he will surpass All Might but not because of you'. That is what senpai said to Endeavor."
Todoroki was startled. Although his reaction was subtle and not over the top, Midoriya can catch onto his widen eyes as he mulled over what Ayame had said. The boy smiled to himself as he remembered the concern Todoroki had showed towards their upperclassman and the gradual change within him. Todoroki was always by Ayame's side looking out for her.
"I don't think…Ayame-senpai knew I was there during her outburst. Afterwards, she found me and wanted me to 'beat some sense' into you, her words exactly," Midoriya laughed.
Even back then, Ayame had always been looking out for them… But…Midoriya wondered if there was more between these two…than what they would say out loud. The not-so-subtle glances they give each other…the little smiles between them… Midoriya remember seeing Ayame and Todoroki to have somehow ended up interning together, too. Maybe these two had gotten closer before any of them realized it.
"I'm glad…she was the one chosen as our senpai," Midoriya admitted softly.
Todoroki slowly calmed down, his eyes looked down to the hand she held before. A miniscule smile appeared as he nodded his head.
"Yeah."
When they returned to their resting rooms, Ayame and Iida were each sitting on their own beds. However, the brunette had a worried expression on her face as she looked at Iida's form. Todoroki paused for a moment as his eyes scanned her over, then to Iida.
"Oh, Iida-kun, just now, Uraraka-san said…" But Midoriya did not catch onto the mood.
"Deku-kun," Ayame smiled helplessly, "Iida-kun just finished getting examined."
She was trying to mind her business as the doctor went over his injury but—it was hard to not eavesdrop when they were in the same room.
"My left hand might have long-term damage…" Iida was the one to tell them. Both Midoriya and Todoroki looked shocked by the result, staring at the largely bandaged arms. "Both of my arms were pretty beat up, but it looks like the damage to my left arm was especially severe. There was damage to my brachial plexus. But it just means that I'll have trouble moving my hand and fingers and experience some numbness. Apparently, there's a possibility that it can be healed with nerve transplant surgery."
Iida had explained lightly yet everyone could feel his disappointment behind the words. Ayame had listened when the doctor explained it to Iida but even afterwards, she didn't know what to say to him.
"When I found the Hero Killer, I stopped being able to think. The first thing I should've done was tell Manual-san. But I forgot myself in my anger," Iida looked at his arms. "I hate him, but he spoke the truth. That's why…until I become a true hero, I think I want to leave my left hand as it is."
"Iida…" Todoroki said quietly.
Back then, if I had been more empathetic… Midoriya gasped. No, stop it. Iida-kun's already accepted it. It would be rude of me to apologize.
"Iida-kun, I feel the same way," Midoriya held out his right hand and clenched it into a fist. "Let's become stronger…together."
"Deku-kun…" Ayame whispered.
Midoriya and Iida nodded their heads. Ayame smiled from the side yet Todoroki looked daze.
"I feel…kind of bad…"
The three of them turned to Todoroki with a confused expression.
"What for?" Ayame tilted her head.
"I feel like if I get involved…other people mess up their hands…" Todoroki stared at his right hand, sweat appearing on his forehead. "Is it…a curse?"
Ayame, Midoriya, and Iida gaped. And then suddenly, all three of them burst out laughing. Because Todoroki had said it in such a serious face and tone—they couldn't believe he would joke around like this!
"Todoroki-kun, I didn't know you could make jokes!" Midoriya laughed.
"No, I'm not joking," Todoroki tried to face them seriously, "I'm like 'The Hand Crusher' or something."
"The Hand Crusher?!"
Ayame clutched her stomach, falling onto her bed with laughter. Midoriya and Iida were laughing loudly as well, all forgetting the tense fight they have survived through. Todoroki frowned; all of their arms were injured one way or another.
He walked over to Ayame and pulled her up by her uninjured arm. "I'm serious."
"I know!" Ayame laughed and raised their joined hands together, "H-hand Crusher—ahah! If that really was true, mine would have been crushed long ago."
Todoroki blinked at their hands before looking off to the side. If Ayame was paying more attention, she would have noticed the light pink dusted over his cheeks. Instead, she was still laughing along with the other two boys.
That night, Iida's mother came to pick him up to recover at home. Iida looked fine as he changed back into his school uniform. The bandages wrapped around his arms were not as bulky anymore. He gave them another bow and left; all three of them watching him walk away with his mother.
As Ayame returned back to her bed, her phone began to ring. She blinked and saw the caller ID as her mother, quickly answering the phone without hesitation.
"Hello?"
"Ayame!" Shiko's voice rang out from her end, "How are you? How do you feel?"
"Onee-chan!" Suzume's voice echoed in the background, "I want to talk to Aya-neechan too!"
"In a second, alright, Suzu? Shouta-oji needs to talk to her first."
Ayame froze and pulled her phone away from her ear, gaping at the voice that just spoken. Aizawa was there too?!
"I know you're there, Ayame," Aizawa glowered from the phone.
"S-S-Sh-Sho—" Todoroki glanced at her quietly. Ayame continued her nervous greeting, oblivious to everything else. "Shouta-oji! W-what a surprise!"
"I'm sure it is," Aizawa droned on, "I thought Yume would take care of you but what do I hear about you running off on your own?"
"I-I-I—" Ayame sweated, "Th-there was an emergency—and some things happened—b-but it's all taken care of now!"
"Hm."
Ayame looked at the ceiling helplessly. It wasn't like she wanted to get hurt, either! She just wanted to protect the others!
"I heard Yume got in trouble, too," Shiko sighed from the other side, "Are you giving your sister problems?"
Ayame flinched and looked back down. It wasn't on purpose!
"S-sorry…"
Aizawa sighed again, his tone softer as he took over the phone. "I'm glad you're alright, kid. Take care of yourself."
"Un."
"Onee-chan?"
The brunette finally smiled at her sister's voice and got up from the bed. She waved briefly to the two boys trying not to eavesdrop and stepped out of the room.
"Hey, Suzu. What's up?" Ayame walked down the hall.
"A-are you okay?" Suzume's voice asked quietly, "Kaa-san and tou-san didn't tell me but I heard hospital!"
"Of course I'm okay!" Ayame boosted. She entered the resting area for patients, glad there was barely anyone around, and sat on a bench. She swung her legs under and stared at the fountain in the middle. "Don't you remember? Your nee-chan is super strong!"
"Y-yeah!" Suzume agreed. "Will you come home soon?"
"Soon," Ayame repeated, "Take care of okaa-san and otou-san, okay?"
"Mhmm."
"Suzu, let Aya-nee rest, okay?" Shiko's voice said softly in the background.
"O-okay…"
Ayame smiled. "Bye-bye, Suzu. Bye, okaa-san."
The phone call ended and Ayame sighed, letting her phone drop onto her lap and leaned back. Although she had told Suzume she was strong, it was only all talk. She hadn't done anything to help the others… Ayame had gotten Yume in trouble too… Yume would be too kind to scold her but; she knew their parents will do it on her behalf.
Ayame sighed again as she looked down. She should be more responsible as the older student… But instead, Ayame had fallen after getting knocked in the head and allowed her kouhais to fight for her. This was the second time already!
Not only that, Todoroki was the one to protect her. Ayame frowned lightly, reminiscing the events from last night and the half-and-half boy. Based on the picture Yume had showed her earlier in the day, Ayame had fainted in Todoroki's arm. He was also the one to carry her out of the alleyway…he also saved her from the flying Nomu…
Ayame sweated and held her head, bending down as her elbows touched her knees. Heat rushed to her cheeks as she remembered all the embarrassing things that had happened last night. It was fine during the day when Ayame had Midoriya or Iida there to distract her but now…
"How many times has it been now…?" Ayame mumbled to herself.
Todoroki had been the one to save her time and time again. Ayame doesn't understand how she kept getting into these predicaments. She thought she was strong but—why couldn't she protect her kouhai?
"Ahhh! Shouta-oji sounded disappointed, too!" Ayame groaned. "How can I get stronger…?"
A hand reached out to rub her head, startling Ayame so bad she nearly fell out of the bench. Todoroki blinked as she tried to collect herself, cheeks tinting red at an alarming rate by his appearance.
"T-T-Todoroki-kun?!"
"Don't hurt yourself thinking," Todoroki only said.
"W-what are you doing here?" Ayame continued to ask. Did he hear anything embarrassing?!
"Just…taking a walk," Todoroki looked away.
He didn't want to admit he wanted to see her. Ever since he heard what Midoriya said this morning, Todoroki had a newfound respect and…curiosity towards Ayame. Maybe because they had spent so much time together that—he ended up, subconsciously seeking her out. It wasn't weird when they held hands and—it wasn't uncomfortable when he saved her from the Nomu. Todoroki was only…returning all the time she had protected him.
But, he was actively protecting her even without learning what she had said against Endeavor.
Todoroki decided to pointedly ignore that little loophole.
"Is everything alright?" Todoroki took the seat next to her, glancing at her from the side with one turquoise eye. He had also noticed her shift in mood when speaking with her family.
Ayame blinked slowly, looking at his sudden approach and question. Again, he was quietly looking out for her and Ayame felt an odd flutter in her stomach.
"Y-yeah!" Ayame sighed but smiled regardless. He was only worried about her! "I just...have some reflecting to do. Thanks, Todoroki-kun."
"Shoto."
"Wh—huh?"
"My name," he glanced at her—only to quickly look away in the face of her wide lilac eyes. "You…said it before. I thought you might have forgotten."
No, no, no way! That—wasn't a dream?! Ayame didn't hallucinate that?! She really called him by his first name?!
Ayame tried to think back to last night. She definitely remembered saying his name before when they met up with Endeavor. Against Stain, she had screamed out his name when she thought the villain was going to kill him. Every time after that, it had been a bit hazy and unclear but—Ayame thought she was just mumbling nonsense!
And now—he wanted her to call him by his name?
Okay, sure, Ayame had called many girls by their first name. She even called a few guys by their first name and nicknames!
But why was it so odd when it came to Todoroki—Shoto?
"I-I didn't forget," Ayame barely stuttered out, looking away from him to focus on the fountain. If she remembered correctly, he had tried urging her to call him by his name before, right?! So—she really wasn't overthinking it?!
"Hm," Todoroki pressed a hand over his mouth and chin, looking off to the side almost bashfully. Ayame's shy reaction…was what he had expected but—he could almost feel her embarrassment from here. "Then, try it."
In a way, Todoroki does feel a bit perplexed by his own behavior. He normally doesn't care what others call him. Only his family used his first name. And yet, Ayame had a tendency of switching it so often that…he ended up expecting his name to follow every time she said 'Sho'. Todoroki just…wanted her to get comfortable with it so he doesn't have odd expectations in the future.
That was it. Nothing else.
Ayame gaped at him again and swore her blush had warmed up her whole face. Wh—why?! Sure, she called others fondly often but this really…was a surprise! She had least expected Todoroki to be the one to come forward and...urge her to say his name. Does this mean—he considered them good friends?
Her heart sped up by those thoughts, wide lilac eyes staring at his light bashful expression before he slowly turned his pretty mismatched eyes back to her. He was waiting for her answer.
There was no reason for her to feel embarrassed by it! Just consider it the same as how she calls her uncle but—change the last syllable!
"S-Sh-Sho—" Todoroki looked at her calmly, "Sho-to-do-roki-kun!"
Todoroki blinked and Ayame nearly slapped her forehead. How can she stutter that badly?!
"Wrong," Todoroki promptly refused, turning to her fully.
Ayame gaped again and yet seeing his serious expression…knew he won't let her go so simply. She inhaled deeply and attempted again, twisting her upper body towards him with full attention and determination. She'll get this right!
"Sh-Sho-totoro-kun!"
This time, Ayame did hide her face behind her hands. What the hell?! What was wrong with her?!
Todoroki…could only stare. Was his name that difficult? She had managed to get it right but—couldn't help but add the ending… He raised his hand again to cover his mouth, trying to hide the smile from her… But it doesn't look as if Ayame noticed considering how she still had her face behind her hands.
"Try again," Todoroki attempted to keep his voice calm.
Ayame begrudgingly lowered her hands, staring at him with an unsatisfied expression. Was he really set on making her call him by his name? Why does Todoroki look so amused?! Even though he has a normally calm face, Ayame can see his eyes nearly twinkling in amusement!
"Fine!" Ayame was exasperated, patting her cheeks in determination and looked straight into grey and turquoise eyes. "Sho—"
Todoroki lifted her chin then, surprising her by his sudden touch, and tilted her chin up just the slightest.
"—to!"
It was silent for a moment when they realized Ayame had not added anything extra behind his name. Todoroki blinked and slowly, a smile spread over his lips at her accomplishment. Ayame was frozen as before with her hands on her cheeks and—Todoroki's hand still under her chin.
"Good job, Ayame," Todoroki whispered with his smile, leaving Ayame even more—stunned.
He's unfair, was the only thing running through her mind, her heart racing and cheeks warming, he is really—unfair.
A/N:
Should I leave Todoroki as 'Shoto' in the future now?
Also, the timeline in the movie is supposed to be set before Season 3. Do you guys want to read the movie storyline or just move straight to Season 3?
Hero Killer Stain arc was pretty short because this was more of Iida's arc, not Ayame's. But her relationship with Shoto keeps improving and they don't even know it themselves~ I hope you all enjoyed this chapter! I just went to BTS Rose Bowl concert for 2 days and I am barely recovering now ahah.
Reviews are much loved!
EDIT: A few of you were curious about the Provisional Exams and no, Ayame does not have her license yet. The exams are taken in June and September every year for 2nd years and 3rd. They are currently in May right now. In the BnHA universe, UA and Shiketsu 1st year students were able to take it due to the recent villain attacks but that was during summer/June.