Sitting in her car, Nana looked at her watch, it was after ten and no sign of him. Twisting in the seat she stretched her back, groaning as her muscles moved stiffly. Pulling out her phone she called Akio again.
The person you are calling is not in a service area to receive messages.
"Fuck, where is he?" she tucked the phone back into her pocket. The longer she waited the more her nerves ripped through her stomach, fear radiated off of her. Rubbing the key chain for the millionth time, she sighed, if she didn't go now, he'd be back soon and if she was caught. She pushed that thought out of her head. Jumping from the car, she grabbed the backpack and swung it over her shoulder, moving quickly across the dark street. The gate to the property was open with a faded sign, Watanabe Auto Restoration, hanging slightly crooked on the pillar. Walking quickly past several old rusted cars, she studied the dark building set back from the courtyard. The lights were off except for a spotlight that shone over the front door. She tugged on her gloves and slid a black beanie over her face. If there was a camera and he realized someone broke in, she needed to make sure he never figured out it was her. Stepping into the bright light that shone over the door, she fit the key into the lock, her heart hammering so hard she could barely breathe. Opening the door, a wave of smells hit her nose, oil, grease, paint, and turpentine mixed noxiously into her lungs. Coughing she turned her head to suck in a breath of fresh air before walking into the shop.
Clicking on the small flashlight she'd brought, the beam of light cut through the darkness. A window in the back reflected back her light. His office. Carefully working her way through equipment and car parts, she stopped at the open door, her flashlight revealed a cluttered room with a big metal desk. Shaking out her shoulders she tried to relax but every noise or creak had her on edge. If he did come back, she hoped he went straight up to his apartment upstairs. If he came in here, she'd be dead, along with Sawa. Tears surprised her at the thought of her son. Get it done. She steeled herself and moved the beam of her flashlight around the sparse office, deciding on the large credenza against the back wall. Sliding open the rusted cabinet that was filled with stacks of old auto books and papers, she tipped her light around the books. There was just enough space. Pulling out the books she managed to push the backpack into the open area, carefully replacing everything. She closed the cabinet door and began to move as fast as possible back to the front door.
Holding her breath, she peeked outside into the courtyard. Still no sign of him. Opening the door, she stepped out and used the key on the deadbolt. Practically running now, she ripped the beanie and gloves off as she passed through the gate and escaped back to her car. Sliding in behind the wheel, she started the engine and drove down the street, gripping the wheel so tightly her knuckles were bright white. She tried to suck in air as the fear bloomed uncontrollably. Her hands shaking so hard she had to pull over, slouching forward on the wheel she began to sob. Putting her head between her legs she tried to control her breathing, but it didn't work, the anxiety and fear pounded through her brain. All she could do was focus on each breath and hug herself as the uncontrolled sobs rolled out of her body. Watching the clock she counted each minute, hiccupping as she sucked in air around the spasmed gasps. Finally, the shaking stopped, her mind finally so exhausted, it seemed to give up. Using the beanie, she wiped her face, holding the soft fabric to her nose. It smelled of Sawa. The sadness crushed her again, squeezing her eyes, she fought back this time. Quelling the new wave of fear, she pulled the car back out onto the empty street and headed home. It would be easy now, she glanced in the rearview mirror. What she had left behind was enough. The right comment to those investigators and that prick would get what he deserved.
Unlocking the main door of their building, Katsuki held it open for Shouto, his arm wrapping around his shoulders as they walked to the elevator. "Fuck, it's late," he pushed the button yawning loudly.
"It's after eleven," Shouto felt fatigue dragging heavily on him. "What time did you wake me up this morning?" He moved his head, stretching his neck, "was that even today? I feel like this day lasted forever."
"It fucking did," Katsuki pushed him into the elevator.
"Oh yeah, you woke me up at four or some shit like that," he laughed weakly. "It's been a while since I've pulled an eighteen-hour shift."
"Losing your touch," hugging him, Katsuki kissed his cheek, "you used to run circles around me on those long stakeouts."
Chuckling Shouto pulled out from under his arm as the doors slid open, he gave him a shy smile. "Are you coming?"
"Hell yes, give me about thirty minutes. I have some stuff I need to do then I'll clean up and come down."
"I'll leave my door unlocked," he called as the elevator shut. Damn, he was beyond tired but Kat's emphatic answer made his stomach do a quick backflip. Sighing in relief as he unlocked his door, it felt good to be home. Dragging himself to the bedroom, he slowly stripped, carefully hanging up his suit and stumbling to the bathroom. Leaning on the sink, he stared at the shower. "Fuck, too tired," but his skin felt itchy and dirty, the grime of day taking its toll. Turning on the water, he climbed under the hot spray relishing in feeling clean since the smoke had covered them from the fire earlier, was that really this morning? So much had happened, he felt like the case was running them in circles. His bathroom light flickered as a soft hum filled the bathroom.
"Shouto!"
Moving the shower curtain back, he furrowed his brow, listening, "Kat?" The light stopped flickering, there was silence. He'd left the bathroom door open a crack, but he didn't see anyone. Maybe he was getting something in the kitchen? Shampooing his hair, he let the hot water slide off his head.
"Shouto!"
Jerking out from the spray, he peeked out around the curtain again, "Kat? I told you I left the door unlocked!" He waited, why wasn't he coming in? The bathroom light flashed several times again. "Great," he'd have to change the lightbulb, sighing as he leaned back under the water, not tonight.
"Shouto!"
"Kat!" He yelled back impatiently, turning off the water and grabbing a towel. He marched to his front door and tested the knob, it was definitely unlocked. Laughing he swung it open forcefully, "dumb blonde I said-" The hallway was empty. "Kat?" He peered both ways down the darkened corridor. Closing the door, he waited, listening carefully. The humming he'd heard in his bathroom was louder in this room, it sounded like electrical wires snapping in the rain. His desk lamp flickered twice as a strange taste filled his mouth. Recognizing the metallic taste from that day, chills sprang over his body. "W-Who's here?"
"Shouto!"
The air started moving, slowly at first then harder, blowing a few papers off his desk. He moved through his apartment, his eyes searching the room. "Hello?!" He tried to stay calm but the wind was growing stronger now, his wet hair blowing across his forehead. "Who's there?" No answer. Walking to the slider along the back of his living room wall, he started to open the door.
"Todoroki! Can you hear me?"
His hand froze, "yes, I can hear you." The voice was loud but tinny, like a bad recording on an old gramophone. The air settled as the taste grew sharper, thick and acrid.
"Help! I need help! Where is everyone?"
"I'm here," Shouto looked out the glass slider at the apartments across the way. "Who are you and how can I help?"
"You need to find me! I can't find a way out!" The scratchy sounding voice was laced with fear.
"Fine, but first, who are you?" An icy trickle of apprehension slipped down his spine.
"Shouto?"
He stiffened he already knew.
"It's me, Izuku."
"Midoriya?" Tears stung his eyes as he squinted trying to see out on the balcony. Was he imagining this? His hand shook as he pulled open the door, the space was empty. "I - I don't see you, where are you?" Tears spilled from his eyes, "I really want to see you Izuku, I need this to be real," his voice tangled in his throat.
"I think I'm real, I can't tell. Shouto. Listen, I need help. My quirks aren't working and I can't protect him alone. I'm losing so much energy trying to find someone."
"Protect him? Protect who?" Looking out into the sky, Shouto threw up his hands in frustration. "What do you mean you're losing energy? Who's strong? Dammit, I need details, Midoriya! Where are you?"
"I don't know and I don't think I can do this again," the tinny voice was fading. "Please Shouto, they're gonna hurt Lida, I'll try to stop him, but I need help! Will you come?"
"Lida?! How is he involved? Midoriya! I'll come, just fucking tell me where to go!" He shouted as he raced to the edge of his balcony, leaning out over the metal railing. "IZUKU!" His voice echoed off the concrete walls. Dogs started barking, filling up the silence of the night. The taste evaporated, he moved his tongue over his teeth, nothing. He looked up at the thick clouds starting to break, releasing the thick heat. "Izuku? Answer me!" He yelled louder, "dammit, where the hell are you?" He peered up at Katsuki's balcony above. "Fuck," he covered his mouth trying to process what had happened. "Are you even real?" His voice echoed in the enclosure, but nothing else made noise.
"Why the hell are you standing out here in your towel?" Katsuki chuckled, walking through the slider, "are you stargazing naked?"
"Shit!" Shouto spun, almost losing his footing as he grasped the towel tighter around his waist.
"What's wrong, you look like you've seen a ghost," Katsuki ran his finger down his pale wet cheek. "Are you crying?" His mouth fell open in shock, he stared at Sho's stricken face.
"Kat," Shouto gripped his hand. "Izuku! He was here! He - He was talking to me."
"Deku was here?" Bakugou's brows shot up as he looked around the balcony. "Where?"
"Not here like that, he was around me." He waved his hand above his head, "but - but he talked to me, he needs help." The hand on his face gentled, a concerned look reflected in those brilliant red eyes.
"I'm serious Kat! I was in the shower and - and kept hearing my name." Gripping his shirt, he tugged at him desperately. His jaw clenched seeing his expression. "You know I'm telling you the damn truth! He was here, it was like I was standing right next to him."
Pulling him into his arms, he stroked his back, clicking his tongue softly. "Okay, okay, so, what did the Nerd have to say?" Shouto went limp, his face pressed into his chest, he began to cry. Katsuki stilled, in all the years he'd known him, he'd never actually heard him like this. "Shit, Sho," he hugged him tighter, "you really talked to him?" There was no other explanation. Cradling his damp head in one hand, he tucked him into his shoulder, letting him cry.
"I swear," Shouto muffled against his body, he closed his eyes, soaking in his warmth. "Izuku was talking to me, he said he needed help, something about Tenya and protecting him and that he couldn't find a way out."
"Lida? They're together?" The hair on his arms rose as goosebumps flared across his skin. This had to be real. "Fuck, where is he?"
"When I asked him where he was, he didn't know, then-" He stopped.
"Then?" Katsuki felt him heave a sigh.
"He disappeared and you were standing at the slider."
"Did he, did he, sound okay?"
Turning to lay his cheek on his wide shoulder, Shouto kept his eyes closed and took in a shuddering breath as the wave of sadness ebbed. His brain kicked in trying to remember every detail. "He sounded scared and his voice was strange, like an old tape recording of himself." He grew quiet, relishing in the feel of Kat's hand stroking his bare skin. "It started with humming and my lights flashed, then the air, it was blowing, inside my apartment. And that taste, it was the same as that day. Do you remember?"
"I do," Katsuki's voice was tight, memories of Izuku being sucked into the black ball pressed into him. "Could you see him?"
"No, he was just in the air or something." Katsuki pulled back and stared down at him.
"In the air or in your head?"
"I'm not sure, thinking about it, I'd say in my head, not like a dream though. I kept hearing his voice right here, strange sounding but loud and clear, especially at first." Shouto tipped his head back, holding his fiery red gaze, he shivered as more chills raced down spine.
Pulling him back into the apartment, Katsuki closed the slider. "Standing outside wet and naked is just gonna make you sick." He pushed him into the bedroom and onto the bed. Opening his drawers, he looked through his stuff, "where's your sweats?" Shouto stood and pulled out his clothes. Leaning on the dresser he watched him get dressed, "I wonder why he talked to you?"
"Me?" Shouto looked up seeing his frown. "He said no one was coming for him." Covering his face, he sat back on the bed. "I wish we knew where he was, none of this makes sense."
Grabbing the towels from the floor, Katsuki shook them out and hung them in the bathroom. Seeing his hair dryer, he grabbed it and plugged it in by the bed. Sliding in behind him, he flipped on the switch, Shouto gave him a quick look. Running his fingers through his silky strands, Katsuki kissed his shoulder. "Can't let you get sick, we gotta find Izuku." Sliding his fingers slowly through his drying hair, he watched as his eyes fluttered closed. Flipping off the dryer, he pulled the covers back and managed to get them both underneath. Keeping him tight in his arms, he kissed his neck and shoulders. "Tomorrow, we'll figure this out. We got an appointment with Matsuno early to find out about Lida. That's gonna lead us to Deku, I can feel it," he felt him relaxing deeper into the bed. "We're fucking going to find him, okay Sho?" His voice cracked, tears dripped onto the pillow, he buried himself against his neck. "Fucking crying twice in one day, damn shit Nerd, gonna punch his lights out when we find him tomorrow."
"Me too."
"Yeah, we both can." Closing his eyes, Katsuki clung to the warm body in his arms, "tomorrow."
"Doctor?"
Garaki adjusted the valve again, the ball was cackling with a strange amount of energy, the gauges were reading at full output. "Yes, yes," he waved impatiently.
"Did you want the new guy?"
Turning, he studied the smaller man, "your name is Ide, right?"
The mousy brown-haired man smiled slightly, "yes, that's me."
Tapping the monitor, the doctor tsked at the display. It was almost midnight, his friend should be the one in control, all the readings were wrong. A blast of purple energy rippled through the room. He wasn't sure if he should risk such an asset. Glancing at Ide, he twisted his lips debating. Another flash of purple light bathed the control room in an eerie glow. Garaki laughed, it was as if the energy itself was deciding for him. "Fine, I'll give you what you want. Big risk, big reward," he leered. "Bring him. Let's see what happens." Garaki turned back to the volatile energy exploding inside the chamber. "This isn't normal but that's what makes it fun." He giggled as he leaned his chin on his hands, eyes darting between the display and the whirling ball. It expanded and contracted continuously causing it to crash into the walls of the chamber riotously, sparks of the strange purple energy spraying into the air as it scraped the heavily fortified vault.
"Doctor?" They were back dragging the black-haired man, who's head slumped forward.
"He's not awake."
"Sorry, there was some trouble," Ide kicked him. "He's got some power shit in his legs." Pulling him into the tiny chamber next to the vault, they laid him on the table and strapped him down. "Does he need to be awake?"
Shrugging, Garaki watched as they attached the cables to his body, "I guess we'll find out." There was a resounding crack from the vault as white light flashed in the room, Garaki jumped to his feet shielding his eyes. "What the hell was that?" Several silvery green wisps of lightning shot through the surface of the black energy, exploding in a spray of fiery sparks as another thunderous boom shook the walls.
"Uh, doctor?" Ide slammed the chamber shut and inched backwards, his hand groping for the door.
Tamping down his own fear, Garaki delighted as the normally stoic Ide stumbled backwards, horrified by the display of power before them. Watching the control panel, he cackled wildly as more lightning burst across the vault, a wave of thunder echoed deafeningly in the room. The huge glass panels trembled with the force of the explosion. The whirling ball began undulating as bubbles formed along the surface. Boiling and growing until one after another they popped, releasing tiny purple blobs that floated upwards, hovering in the air, momentarily suspended. Then, like an arrow shot from a bow, they streaked for the thick cables that were connected to the body on the table. A massive arc of luminous green lightning split the surface, shooting after the slithering purple globules that had snaked into the tubes.
"What - what is that?" Ide was now plastered to the door, his hand trying to find the knob.
"They're fighting over him!" Garaki sang as he ran to the viewing window watching as both powers surged into the man on the table. It was incredible. The body lurched and twisted so violently he wondered if he would dislocate his shoulders with his hands secured. Suddenly Lida's eyes opened and he began screaming, it was high pitched and raw, grating down every nerve. Ide whimpered behind him. Steeling himself, he continued to keep his eyes on the scene before him, he needed to make notes on everything for his benefactor. The screaming continued until Lida's eyes bulged, gagging as his tongue pushed out desperately trying to get air into his lungs. "No! No! Don't die," Garaki beat on the glass viewer. His fingers brushed the handle of the door, he stopped, he knew better than to go inside. Lida's body jerked hard again, a spasm contorting his face until finally he fell limply back onto the table, his arms and legs twitching. As if willing him to live, Garaki kept his eyes glued to his chest. There was a brief movement, the tiniest rise and fall, he was breathing. Alive!
"Is it done?" Ide stayed by the door, his hand squeezing the doorknob in case they needed to get out fast.
"I'm not sure," Garaki could see the air quivering with energy. "I don't think so but it appears that he's breathing, for now."
Another flash of light filled the bigger chamber as more green lightning shot off the ball twisting up and racing along the ceiling. Garaki raced back to the main display watching sparks of light blasting off the ball as it skidded along the far side of the vault. A purple tendril began to pull away from the surface, straining against the force of the swirling energy. Reaching upwards, it lashed out and encircled the cords of lightning. Then like a giant rubber band, the tendril snapped back, sucking the green light back into the ball. The swirling energy tilted wildly, then like a top finding its axis, it began to spin normally again. The gauges settled, the readings went flat. Running back to the smaller chamber, Garaki could see the energy had evaporated from the room. Ripping the door open, he moved alongside the table, touching Lida's neck. "Be alive," he hissed. There was a steady pulse beating beneath his finger. "YES!" He laughed, grasping the man's cheeks, he shook him. "Hello?" A moan emitted from his mouth first then thick black lashes slowly opened. "Wake up!" Garaki yelled in his face.
"Unn," Tenya moaned, his body felt heavy like it was filled with lead.
"Yes, yes," Garaki danced in place, he squeezed his cheeks harder. "Wake up old friend!" Would it be him?
"Friend?" Tenya's tongue was thick, the word slurred.
"Is it you?" Garaki leaned closer as the man's eyes opened. "All For One?" He whispered.
"Me?" Tenya tried to form words, his brain searching for what he wanted to say, "I'm - I'm Lida," everything was escaping him.
"Lida?" Garaki's face fell, he loosened his grip slightly, damn, "how do you feel, Lida?"
"No," it was the only word Tenya could think of, he tried to focus on the man hovering over him, where was he? What had happened? Run. The desire to get away overwhelmed his senses. Then a whip of pain cut through him, slicing up from his chest and closed around his throat. This person is your friend, pounded through his skull. Tenya gasped as a cold heaviness seeped into his body and darkness folded over him, blanketing his thoughts. "Stop," he choked out. Like a pinprick of light disappearing into an endless void, he felt himself being sucked away. The speck of light grew smaller and smaller, then vanished.
Garaki squeezed his cheeks again, "Lida? Can you hear me?" Pulling his pen light from his pocket he did a pupil test, jerking back as a strange purple glow flooded his eyes. "Lida?"
"Yes," Tenya blinked and the eerie light vanished. "I hear you," he glanced around the room, his gaze coming back to the man above him. A feeling of warmth and happiness flooded him seeing his face. "I think," he searched his memory, "I think you're my friend?"
Elbows propped on the bar, Yusa sipped her vodka tonic slowly, the singing drunk workers had finally cleared out to everyone's relief. She'd sent her new bartender home since there were only two people left and they were finishing the last of their drinks. Yawning she glanced at the clock, after midnight, with luck she'd be home in the next hour.
"I saw that!" One of the patrons barked drunkenly at her, "you yawned." Draping his arm over his companion he tugged them both towards the exit, "less get outta here." Yusa jogged around the bar and unlocked the main door, she'd already turned off the neon bar light and flipped the sign to read closed.
"G'night," they slurred as they stumbled giggling into the street.
Closing the door Yusa stretched, she was exhausted, the shit with Akio had been hell and all she wanted was to feel her pillow. A soft buzzing echoed from the bar, Akio, flashed on the screen of her phone. "Akio?" She answered worriedly, "did you miss the train?"
"Nooo, lef the station a while ago but something ish going on at the lab, the fucking doctor hass texted me a hundred damn times."
"What's wrong with you?" She could hear the distinctive garble in his voice.
"Fuuuuuck, took painkillers," he rubbed his face trying to wake up, it was no use, he was swimming. "Trains no fucking help," he closed his eyes as his body gently rocked to the sway of the car.
"Okay, so you need me to call the doctor for you?"
"Yeah, can you? Mmm, shorry I'm out of it. Find out whatsh going on and, if you need, contact Shensei."
Biting her lip, she decided not to tell him she already contacted Sensei, at least she had an excuse now. "I'll do that, how's your stitches?"
"Okie dokie," Akio chuckled uncharacteristically and the phone line went dead.
Making a face, she felt bad that she was pouting but damn she was drained from the day. Looking up the doctor's number she hoped he would answer his cell. Akio had the main line connection in his apartment but there was no way she was driving over there.
"Is this Yusa?" The doctor's excited voice blurted out before the first ring. "Where's Akio?"
"He's busy," Yusa replied coolly, sitting down on a bar stool, she pulled her drink in front of her.
"I must talk to him, this is very important!"
"And I'm listening."
"Fine, fine," Garaki grumbled. "It worked! The transfer or whatever happened here and the patient is still alive."
"Really?" She sat up tall, "are you joking?"
"I would not joke about this but understand that the outcome is not at all like I expected."
"What do you mean, not like you expected?" Reaching across the bar, she grabbed an order pad and pen, she had a feeling she was going to be taking notes.
"The man Uchiyama brought down, I recognized him, he worked with One For All. I believe he was the Turbo hero?"
"What? You have Lida Tenya?" Yusa paused. How did they get a hero? "You used him as a subject?" Her voice questioning.
"It was worth the risk," Garaki snarled defensively. "I've been given full control on these experiments."
"Sorry," Yusa doodled on the pad. "I was just surprised, I thought the point of the homeless people was to make sure it was working." She could hear him humph again on the other end. This wasn't getting her any closer to home. Sighing, she drew a caricature of the doctor on her pad, smiling as she put horns on his head. "So, you said it worked but not like you expected?"
"That's right, All For One has taken over Lida's mind and body, I think." Garaki corrected himself, "I know that he has. But it's the other one that is somehow keeping him alive." He barked with laughter, "isn't it ironic?!"
"Whoa, back up doctor, who is saving him? I thought One For All was dead?"
"He is, but both are somehow still intact. They've managed to take over this hero and possess him!" Garaki sprang to his feet and began pacing, his mind trying to wrap around what had happened. "The others always died but that's because they were only possessed by one of them." He stared at the stable ball now whirling in place. "Don't you see? It takes both of them for it to work!" Sitting back down, he watched the control board. The ball had been reading normal output since the display earlier. "It's incredible, isn't it?" He giggled, "here we've been looking for a way to transfer power and all this time we had the power of control."
"Okay doc," Yusa sighed exasperated, you did it again, jumped way too far ahead. What do you mean by that? The power of control? I thought you said the transfer worked, which means Lida has one of their quirks?"
"No, no," pinching the bridge of his nose, Garaki squeezed his eyes shut, he hated talking to normal people. "That's what's changed. When the two forces went into Lida, it appears All For One gained control of him. This man still considers himself as Tenya, he retains his personality and his memories but he is absolutely willing to do anything I tell him to do, without question."
"Without question?" Her brows shot up.
"I told him to cut his arm and he did," Garaki chortled, remembering how Lida had grabbed the knife and sliced his arm without hesitation.
"Oh," Yusa breathed out, "and you're sure All For One isn't taking over his mind, resurrecting himself in some way."
"No," Garaki frowned in disappointment. "He is clearly Lida. I'm going to send him back to work tomorrow. I understand his disappearance has caused some issues?"
"Are you sure?" Yusa leaned forward, this guy was nuts, he was pushing boundaries she knew Sensei would never want to breach. "What if he says something? What's he gonna tell everyone?"
"Relax, it's okay, Tenya will tell everyone he was ill and went to the hospital, Akio or you just need to make sure everyone's stories align."
"I suppose," she wasn't convinced. "I need to talk to Sensei, I'm waiting for a call."
"Good! I can't wait to hear the response to this development. Let me know if you get approval to get more heroes."
"What?" Yusa looked at her phone in disbelief. "You want more heroes? For what?"
"To repeat what happened tonight! Imagine an army of heroes doing our bidding," Garaki smiled wide, the thought was enticing.
"This - this is something you could repeat?" The alarm bells ringing in Yusa's head were loud and clear. "Messing with heroes? Look doctor, that puts us in the spotlight. Sensei has worked hard to keep things quiet. That's a dangerous proposal!"
Garaki picked up his pencil and made a few notes. "Possibly, but I think this only worked because this man was close to One For All. It was their affinity that created something special." Yusa was quiet on the other end. "Do you understand the importance of using someone close to Midoriya?" He tried to tamp down his impatience. "When All For One goes after the subject, Midoriya is the one that will keep them alive! That is why I believe it must be someone close to him."
She rubbed her forehead, this was out of control, no wonder this doctor had been in prison, he took too many risks. "I - I don't know."
"It's not your decision."
"Fuck you."
Snickering, the doctor smiled, "I bet once my benefactor hears of the potential, you'll be singing a different tune." He fidgeted for a moment, "if you can, at least bring the blonde one, he's called Dynamite." Garaki glanced up at the ball as a sudden flash emitted from the room. "Yes," he giggled, "bring that one.
Propping her feet on the desk, Arisu yawned, reaching for her coffee. "Too fucking early," she mumbled, at least it was Friday. The defense minister had asked her to meet this morning. Dear god, that man loved to have crazy ass crack of dawn meetings. Rifling through the paperwork her assistant had left on her desk the night before, she noticed the department requisitions from the last four months. Flipping through the pages, she scanned the rows for any A/V equipment, although she doubted what they'd confiscated from the homeless camp was from her division. A loud knock sounded. Jerking to her feet, she slid the papers into her drawer and threw on her jacket, plastering a smile on her face as she opened the door. "Defense -" she stopped, Kezu stood in the doorway with Todoroki Enji, he didn't look any happier than she felt. "Todoroki?" She glanced between the two of them. "Sorry," she stepped back, letting them into her office, "I thought you were coming with Uchiyama."
"Todoroki joined us since Uchiyama is taking some personal time," Kioku sniffed sharply, "so sad about her boy."
"I heard and I understand Commander Imai's PHCI unit is working on the case." She handed a coffee mug to Endeavor, "your son's team." She pulled down another cup, setting it on her meeting table and poured coffee for both, "here's sugar for you, Minister."
"Thank you Nekama and good news to hear Sawa's case is in capable hands." Taking a sip of coffee, he pulled a report from his briefcase. "Now for our meeting."
Sitting down, Arisu opened her notebook, glancing over at Todoroki. His face was impassive but there was no mistaking he was annoyed. Looking back at Kezu, he was smiling wide at both of them as he began prattling on about his quirk program. She watched in fascination, either he knew and ignored that they were less than enthusiastic or he was just as fucking clueless as he seemed.
"I'm happy to say that the school board agreed to review the proposal from Base One Corporation to buy or lease the UA school." He gestured towards Todoroki, "once they understood that Endeavor was one of the board members of the company, they were more open to our offer."
"Base One?" Arisu scanned her notes, "they're one of the construction companies awarded the rebuilding of the lower ward, right?"
"Yes, adding Todoroki to the board was necessary to keep our interests aligned, but now it's tipped the balance in our favor for UA," Kioku laughed softly. "In return, Base One will sublet to the Ministry and help create the world's leading facility for studying quirks." Enji shifted in his chair, tapping his finger lightly on the table.
"Wait, what happened to the Defense Ministry offices?" Arisu was confused. Was he actually considering the school? "I thought Uchiyama was setting up some labs for you there?"
"She was but we met the other day and I was informed that due to electrical issues, the cost to meet the demands of the lab is exceeding our budget." He huffed slightly, pushing paperwork to them both. "When I discussed this with Todoroki, he suggested that UA might be a good replacement," he beamed at Endeavor and spread out a map of the grounds. "We desperately need a facility that's large enough and UA is quite spacious. It's a huge campus with privacy, plenty of room and dorms for any case studies that might need to stay with us. Plus," he added excitedly, "it already has state of the art laboratories used for designing equipment for heroes." Looking up, he leaned forward patting Endeavor's hand. "I wasn't sure at first but after seeing the proposal, I was convinced. And now the board has agreed to review everything with Todoroki's endorsement." He sat back smiling, "I think they realized it's a good use of the property."
Picking up the proposal Arisu bit her tongue, more like blackmail, she could see a faint blush on Todoroki's face. The Ministry's new laws had the school reeling financially after suspending their hero programs and now the government was using their desperation against them. "What do you need from me?" She tried to keep the contempt from her voice but she still earned a challenging look from Endeavor.
"Before everything is finalized, I need a report on all security features of the facility."
"Okayyyy," she let the word roll off her tongue slowly. "Why are you asking NPL to handle security for a private campus?"
"Since the Defense Ministry is going to be taking over it won't be private anymore."
Holding up her hand she forced a smile, "I understand but defense has their own security budget, this would be a lot for us to take on with everything else."
"I need your help to make this work Nakama," Kioku's voice grew stern, his smile faded. "Should I be going to your next in command for assistance?" The threat hung in the air.
Holding his gaze for several moments, Arisu finally looked down and picked up the map of UA studying the specs of the grounds. "Security at that facility is already top-notch so it won't take much, maybe put a new Koban nearby? I guess that is a good alternative." She kept her voice neutral.
"Thank you Nakama, I look forward to your feedback."
Avoiding looking at him, Arisu glanced up at Todoroki, pausing at his scowl. "How long before you need my report?" She peeked back at the big man's burning eyes. What was his problem? It wasn't his job being fucking threatened.
"If you could put it together soon, the board meets at the end of next week to review the final proposal and I want to include anything we may need at that time." Kioku watched as Arisu made a few notes while keeping her eyes downcast.
"Sure, I can do that," she reviewed her list of things to finish, "anything else?" Snapping his notebook shut loudly, Arisu popped her head up. He pulled a folder from his briefcase, his face reddened slightly as he pushed it towards her. Taking the folder, she opened it and read the paperwork. "A police report?" Her mouth gaped slightly. "Are you serious?"
"I'm afraid I am," he pinched his lips together, clearing his throat.
"Wow," she coughed, taking a quick sip of coffee. "These are really valuable items, Midnight's handcuffs? These were stolen from you?" She hadn't meant to let the disbelief creep into her voice.
"I understand your question," the Minister blushed harder. "The head of defense being robbed. That's why I'm bringing this directly to you. This needs to be discreet."
"It looks like the last time you had them out was this past week, at your party?"
"Yes, everything had been stored in a temporary area after the party but when my security team came by to put everything back into my safe, they noticed several items missing."
"Do you think it was a guest at your party?"
Nodding his head slowly, he grimaced, "it's the only thing that makes sense."
"I see you attached the guest list, thank you." Arisu read down the list, stopping at Uchiyama Sawa's name. "Sawa was at your party?"
"Yes, he comes all the time with his mother, ever since his father died several years ago, he's always been by her side." He gave her a troubled frown, "I worry about her now that he's gone, her mental state could be fragile for a while."
"But sir," Arisu leaned forward. Had the old man gone senile? "Minister? Why would you tempt him like that?"
"Tempt him?" Kioku pulled back, "what does that mean?"
"Are you kidding? His arrest a few months ago?" He gave her a blank look. "He stole Pro Hero equipment! It turned out to be counterfeit and then he stupidly tried to dump it, but of all people you should've known his background."
"Me? Why me?"
She paused, choosing her words carefully. "Sir? You're the one who told me to shut down his case and release him from custody." Kezu reeled back, his face contorting in horror.
"I did what!?"
Arisu grit her teeth. What the fuck was he playing at? "You emailed me to take the case offline and return the evidence to the ministry." Her heart was pounding a mile a minute as she tried to breathe normally. I'm gonna fucking lose my job, hammered through her brain.
"I did no such thing!" He gasped looking from Arisu to Todoroki. "I - I would never use my position-"
"I have the order in writing from you!" Arisu snarled, jumping from her chair, she raced to her desk and fished through her desk drawer. Finding the folder, she pulled out the printed email. She'd have to remember to thank Shouta later, he'd been the one to advise her to put everything in hard copy. Handing him the paper, she planted her hands on her hips as he read the email, his eyes wide in confusion.
"I never sent this, Nakama!" He shot to his feet, "how did you get this?" He dropped the paper in disgust. Endeavor picked it up, scanning it briefly. "Does anyone else know about this?" He pointed angrily at the email.
"Yes, Aizawa's team figured it out after they were assigned to the case, Bakugou and Todoroki," she looked back at Enji. "They did some background work and found that the old case was protected and requested permission to open the file."
"And?" His voice ratcheted higher.
"And? And what?" Arisu clenched her fists in frustration, "I told them no!"
"Relax Nekama, Kezu," Enji held up his hand, he waited until both settled back down in their chairs. "At least it's only one team," chewing his lip, he peered at the email thoughtfully. "Sir, how easy would it be to send an email from your account?" He noted the date and time of the email.
"I - I don't know," he sputtered, "I have an IT department that knows that." He thought for a moment, "I use my phone to send a code to my computer at work, it logs the passcode and I confirm."
"Your phone?" Arisu pointed to his large cell phone on the table. His hand reached for it protectively.
"Is anyone ever alone with your phone?" Enji saw the sweat starting to form on the Minister's brow.
"Yes, of course, I have multiple meetings with my team where I might go get coffee or use the restroom," he bit out defensively. "I leave my belongings with my trusted staff members all the time."
"Sir, we're not accusing you," Enji eyed him, the Minister's face was so red he looked like he was going to pop. "We're trying to understand the situation." Reaching forward he pulled the phone out of his hand, tapping the screen the passcode request popped up. "Does anyone know your passcode?"
"My administrator does and - and-," his eyes widened. "Oh, no." His voice grew quieter. "Uchiyama knows too. It's required that we share passcodes in the event," he paused, "in the event one of us were to die, that way we're able to access each other's accounts."
"It may not be her since others have access, but since Sawa is her son, it's possible she used your account to release him."
"She could have asked me, I - I would have helped, maybe not fully release him," he covered his face. "Why?" He moaned, "another stain on our department. So many scandals."
Grabbing his arm, Arisu tugged his hand from his face. "We don't know anything yet, let me talk with Captain Aizawa's team, perhaps their investigation uncovered something and we can link this to the right person, quietly."
"Yes," his eyes lit with hope, "find the culprit and maybe it can be taken care of without the public knowing." He turned and bowed slightly towards Todoroki. "I know I'm asking a lot but Enji, I beg you to keep this to yourself."
"Of course, Minister, there's too much at stake. I'm afraid another scandal might have a negative impact on UA's decision to sell to Base One, plus the rebuilding of the ward." He waved his hand, "I'm only here to discuss security at the school, nothing else."
"Thank you," Arisu smiled at him tightly, she glanced at the Minister who was mopping his forehead with his handkerchief.
"In the future Nakama, if I make any request that is outside of guidelines, or," his brows knitted, "any of my staff, be sure to set up a live meeting for us to discuss."
Chiding herself for not calling him directly, Arisu nodded. "I will and I'm sorry, I was new then, it was my first week here and I was probably more than a little nervous."
"Well, now you know." Packing his papers into his briefcase, he was all business again. "I think we need to look into this first before we begin celebrating the next step with UA. Please give us an update everyday, no matter what information you have."
"Us?" She gave a long look at Todoroki. "Shouldn't this be kept within our office?"
"Normally, yes, but keep Endeavor informed as well, since he's worked with me so much over the years, I'm comfortable with him knowing. That way he can maneuver as needed with the school board." Turning to leave, he looked at his watch. "I almost forgot. Nekama, I would like to visit Suguta Ren in the hospital, could you arrange that for this morning?"
Snapping her mouth closed before it fell open, Arisu flinched as she bit her tongue. "Today?"
"Yes, yes," he nodded eagerly, "she was a guard at our ministry compound and with all that has happened, I'd like to see her."
"She's in a coma, sir," Arisu tried to keep the bafflement from her voice, this man continued to grate on her last nerve.
"No matter," he waved, "I can do a quick speech outside the hospital, go see her and be out quickly."
Press conference, Arisu snorted softly. He would do anything to get in front of the camera. "Of course, visiting hours start at ten o'clock, shall we meet at the entrance of the hospital then?"
"Perfect!" He clapped his hands, "now, I have to get back for a meeting. Todoroki, did you want a ride?"
"No," he stood, "I'll catch the train back to the office from here."
"Then I'll take my leave."
"Thank you, Minister," Arisu held the door and bowed again as he left, letting out a deep breath, her shoulders sagged.
"Sounded like a long day ahead in that sigh."
"I guess," her mind was already skipping ahead thinking of everything she needed to get finished. "Before my schedule gets too out of hand, I would like to set up a time to see the UA campus. They changed the security of the campus so much after all the attacks on the school years ago." She paused, "I believe your son was a part of that class? One of the most incredible classes to come from UA," she mused.
"Yes, he was," Enji stood, "it was an interesting time for them, good in some ways, bad in others. That year produced many of our greatest heroes we've had the privilege of knowing, but," he shrugged, "they've all struggled to create a personal life for themselves, especially my son."
"The balancing act? Are you saying you've perfected that?" Arisu teased, laughing as he reddened slightly.
"No and as it turns out family life wasn't right for me either. Maybe he's smarter than I am."
"Maybe," Arisu leaned on the door. "Either way, it's been a long time, I'm looking forward to seeing the campus again. I never did make the cut." Todoroki gave her a quick look.
"You tried out at UA?"
"I did and failed," Arisu smirked, "my dirty little secret. Although it pushed me into police work and here I am," she gestured to her office. "I have a quirk but I rarely use it, especially now that it's illegal."
Enji studied her closely, she had always struck him as quirkless but her support of the Pro Heroes made sense now. He'd always thought it was her ties with Aizawa that spurred her sympathies. "What's your quirk?"
She smiled mischievously, "I can mindmeld with someone, I can see your thoughts and you can see mine. It really only conveys what I'm thinking or feeling. Every woman's dream."
"Interesting."
"Not really but I use it occasionally when I can't get someone to understand me," she gestured across her forehead. "Seeing my thoughts helps get the idea across."
"That would be handy."
"But not when it came to UA, I have no combative powers, so I didn't get through the initial test."
"Why'd you try out?"
Her jaw clenched unconsciously, "my dad pushed me."
"Does your family have a history of being Pro Heroes?"
"Only one and not really a hero," she mumbled, a red blush creeping up her cheekbones.
Enji chuckled, "anyone I know?"
"It's complicated."
"Isn't everything?"
Huffing, she chewed her lip. "Ever hear of Lady Nagant?"
Endeavor's eyes widened slightly, "I know of her."
Kicking the door with her boot, Arisu played with the doorknob, "she's my half-sister."
"Really?"
"Yup," her lips tugged down into a frown. "We have the same dad. I'm the 'second wife, new life' baby."
"I see, wasn't Lady Nagant's last name Tsutsumi?"
"I changed to my mom's name after my dad left her," she spat out with disgust. "I guess she and I have that in common, he moved on and started a third family." Todoroki's expression didn't change, he continued studying her with his large red brows pulled together.
"How is Lady Nagant? I heard she moved to the eastern coast."
Tilting her head back Arisu laughed sarcastically, "she's not my favorite person Todoroki, can't say I'm hers, so we leave it at that." Tapping her finger impatiently on the door, she peeked at her clock. "Crap, I have a meeting soon, can you send me times on the walk through at UA?"
"I will and Nakama," Enji stepped closer, "thank you, it's good to get to know you considering we'll be working together more." He squeezed her shoulder affectionately. Stepping out into the hall, he made his way to the elevators.
Laughing awkwardly, Arisu closed the door. "This just got really fucking strange."
"The train will arrive in the station in ten minutes, please collect your belongings and be ready to exit to the right. This train will not be going to another destination. All passengers must get off at the next stop."
The voice echoed through the train prompting the passengers as it slowly pulled into the station. Moving the cloth blind that covered his private window, Akio watched everyone moving up the narrow aisle. Once the area cleared, he stepped out leaving a wide gap between himself and the mass waiting to get off. He'd figured Kaneko was staying at one of a dozen hotels down by the tourist area close to the main ship port. By process of elimination, he had decided on three that were located by the terminal. Proximity and the fact that they were the only hotels that took payment in cash. Wincing, he stepped off the train and moved to a small handcart selling bento boxes. He wasn't hungry but he needed to eat to help his body heal. Wandering outside, he found a bench and sat, eating the food as he watched the early morning sun begin to light up the travelers running into the station to catch their trains. Checking the large digital clock display, it was still before six. Finishing the last few bites, he began to walk towards the touristy section of town to begin his search.
Pouring Shouto's leftover ramen into the pot, Katsuki turned up the heat. It wasn't much but since they were meeting Matsuno early today they needed to eat before going to the ministry campus.
"You're up?"
Hearing his sleepy voice, he turned to see him standing in the kitchen opening. He looked pale and tired, dark circles ringed his eyes. "Yeah," Katsuki moved across the kitchen and hugged him. "You okay?" A quiet laugh sounded against his chest.
"I'm sorry."
Pulling back, Katsuki frowned. "Sorry? Sorry for what?" Shouto lifted his head and held his gaze, he palmed his cheek tenderly.
"I was an ass, those dreams you told me about, I never really understood. I just figured it was a nightmare, something you needed to deal with and get over. I thought." He stopped, there was nothing else to say.
"Until it happens to you, it's hard to get the other person's struggle." Shouto hugged him, his body shivering. Kissing him, Katsuki pushed him gently towards the bedroom. "Get dressed and come eat something hot, we gotta go to the ministry offices before they open at eight."
"Right, okay," Shouto shook his head trying to clear his mind.
Watching him, Katsuki thinned his lips. He had to find the nerd, even if it killed him. A strange tingling spread through his body as the thought rolled through his mind. He might actually die finding Deku. Ochako's words floated through his mind.
I always told myself it would be me, I never thought in a million years it would be anyone else.
He stared at the bedroom doorway, his stomach clenched painfully. "Not him," he bristled. "I'm done losing people." Flipping the burner down on the soup, he began digging into the fridge for more to eat.
"Change of plans."
Jerking his head up, Bakugou slammed into the top of the shelf. "Fuck!" Rubbing the spot, he eyed Shouto from under his arm. "Change of what plans?"
"Captain called an all-team meeting at the precinct, he says to get our asses in right now."
"Everyone?"
"Yep," Shouto adjusted his tie, "sounds like the others are already there." Katsuki stood, closing the door to the fridge.
"Did you tell him about Matsuno?"
"He said to cancel with her and get to the office immediately."
"Shit, sounds like something just blew the fuck up," pointing to the stove, he walked to the bedroom. "Eat while I get dressed."
"I have visitors coming early today," Matsuno signed in with the front guard, seeing the clock on the wall, it was almost seven. "They should be here in about forty minutes." The guard nodded, noting the names she'd written into the guest log.
"Criminal investigators?"
"Yes, we're finishing the interview with the Assistant Defense Minister, some follow up details." She forced a smile.
"I'll call you when they check in with me."
"Thank you," walking to the huge bank of elevators, Matsuno hugged her purse to her chest as she stepped into the car waiting until it reached the top floor. The building was still quiet, too early for most of the workers. Pulling out her keys, she froze at the sounds of someone moving around in the office. Was she here? Sucking in her breath as fear flooded her mind. "Huh?" She leaned closer, the printer was making noises. Uchiyama never used that printer. Hesitantly she opened the door and peeked into the office. There standing with his back to her, hovering over the printer, was Lida.
"TENYA!" She burst through the door and ran to him. He whirled around, startled. Grabbing his arms Matsuno dropped her purse. "Is it really you?!"
"M-Matsuno?" Tenya stepped back, her hands clutching his sleeves. "Forgive me!" He bowed low.
"Oh!" She covered his mouth seeing the bandages on his face and arm. "What happened to you?"
"I'm so sorry, I was doing work on a project for the Assistant Minister and I became ill."
"You were sick?"
"I was," he frowned, "it was so bad that someone called a car to take me to the hospital, where I apparently passed out." He blushed, "I really don't remember much."
"The hospital?" She hadn't even thought of that, "which one?"
"Um," Tenya pursed his lips and tilted his head, "I'm not sure, isn't that silly? I remember the doctor told me I'd eaten something bad and had passed out for almost a full day. I was lucky that I went in right away."
"I thought you were missing!" Matsuno clutched at his arms. "OH!" Her eyes widened, "I told Captain Aizawa that something happened to you. Your friends, they're coming this morning to look into your," she let out a long sigh, "disappearance." Lunging at him she hugged him, "I was so scared."
"Oh, thank you," he hugged her back gingerly. "I'm sorry to be such a burden."
"It's okay," sniffling, she wiped her eyes, "I'm just really glad you're here." Her phone rang from her purse. Fishing it out, she saw the name and quickly answered, "Todoroki, he's back!"
Stepping off the train platform, Shouto paused, "Lida? He's back?" He grabbed Kat who was moving ahead of him and tugged him out of the crowd, motioning to his phone.
"Tenya?" Katsuki caught what he said as they moved to the side. "He showed up?"
Nodding, he listened intently. "Okay, wow, I guess we didn't even think of a hospital so don't get upset Matsuno, at some point we would've called the hospitals and found out."
Blushing Matsuno gripped her phone, "I'm so sorry, please tell Captain I'm sorry." She'd actually thought Uchiyama had hurt Lida. "I feel really stupid," she admitted.
"Don't!" Both Lida and Todoroki called in unison, she blushed harder.
"Really Matsuno," Shouto reassured her, "you were worried about a friend, all we did was check out his apartment. We're just glad he's back." He motioned for Katsuki to keep moving. "I'm sorry, I've gotta go, I was calling to cancel, we have an emergency meeting. If it's okay though I do want to meet with both you and Tenya to go over the details to close out the report and we do have those follow up questions with Uchiyama." Following Kat to the stairs, he finished up with Matsuno and hung up. "That's good news."
"It is," Katsuki headed out to the main street. "Where the fuck was he?"
"Sick in a hospital, she said he was out cold. I'm guessing he was discharged last night and typical Tenya just went into work," Shouto scoffed laughing. "We'll get the story when we head over there later." Pushing open the lobby doors, they made their way back to Aizawa's office. The door was locked and the blinds closed on the window. Katsuki knocked, hearing the scrape of a chair, the door opened, Denki smiled tentatively at him.
"Hey guys, come in."
The room was packed with the whole team, Captain Aizawa was leaning against his desk. "Good, you're here, sit down." He waited until the three sat. "We've got a special guest coming today, she wants an update on both of the cases you've been working on."
"A guest?"
"Nakama Arisu, head of the NPL, she's on her way and requested a personal meeting with all of you."
"With us?" Momo peered at Katsuki, "what did Bakugou do?" She smirked at his grunt.
Chuckling Shouta shook his head, "probably something but we'll find out soon enough."
"Fucking hilarious, all of you," Katsuki kicked his legs out and shot a withering look at Momo.
"Is there any coffee made?" Shouto stood up, his head was pounding, he needed caffeine. Kat shot up next to him, putting a hand on his back.
"I'll get you some."
"No," he shook his head and headed to the door, "anyone else?"
"None of that crap. I got some decent stuff from across the street," Ochako lifted her cup.
"I need you to stay here until Nakama gets here."
"He's just getting coffee for fuck's sake, let him alone," Katsuki whirled around snarling at the Captain as Shouto disappeared out the door.
"What's up with you?" Kiri laughed nervously, Bakugou was mouthy but never openly hostile to Aizawa like that.
Clenching his jaw, he debated what to tell them. "He talked to Midoriya last night." Six pairs of eyes stared at him at once.
"Talked to who?" Captain Aizawa was the first to reply.
Running his hands through his spikes, Bakugou let out a pronounced sigh. "When I went down to his apartment, he said Izuku had been talking to him."
"He saw him!" Ochako choked. "Bakugou! Are you joking?"
"Fuck no, I wish I was, he didn't see him but he swears they talked. Deku said he didn't know where he was and he needed help." There was a knock at the door
"Hang on," Shouta held up his hand, "I want to hear this but I think Arisu is here." Swinging open the door she stood waiting, her long black hair pulled into a low ponytail. "Glad you made it," he smiled. "Commissioner Nakama," he turned, "may I introduce you to my team-"
"I know them, Captain," Arisu smiled, cutting him off. "Hello, you can call me Nakama." Smiling her gaze roamed over each investigator, she glanced at Shouta, "looks like you're missing one?"
"Todoroki," the door opened as he came back into the room, a cup of coffee in his hand.
Seeing the coffee, she laughed. "I guess you don't appreciate your own life." Shouto just looked into his cup silently.
"It's pretty shitty coffee," Kiri quipped, he could see the shadows under his friend's eyes.
"Nakama," Ochako blurted out, "sorry, but I need to interrupt." She stared at Todoroki, "did you really talk to Midoriya last night?"
