Sitting outside of a cafeteria, Akio had wedged himself into a corner and was watching as a growing number of people began filling the sidewalks. Walking through the neighborhood earlier, he'd decided one of the hotels was way too rundown for Kaneko's taste. That left only two hotels. Thankfully, they were within a short distance of one another and he was able to find a cafe nearby to wait. Pushing the coffee cup back-and-forth between his hands he debated how he was going to kill Kaneko. His body was definitely weak but his senses were less dull than he expected after the painkillers. The wound was clean and appeared to be healing well. Whatever he did, it needed to be quick and somewhere he could get away without being fast. He would never be able to run anywhere at this point without hemorrhaging blood.

Taking a sip of the coffee, he scanned the crowd as more people entered the cafeteria. This street was perfect, the sidewalks were wide and there were only two coffee shops open, this one and one across the way, he hoped one of them would attract Kaneko. Keeping an eye on his watch, he calmly let the minutes tick by, the longer he sat and rested, the better. Even If he did miss him, the worst case was the ship would pick him up and return him back to the police, then he'd just kill him in the transit. After another forty minutes went by slowly until finally, he was rewarded for his patience. "Gotcha!" He smirked as Kaneko walked towards him on the sidewalk. His casual clothes were surprising as he had never seen him in anything but a suit. He was walking with purpose down the sidewalk, stopping to the smell of coffee that perfumed the area. Eyes darting between the two establishments, Akio watched as he walked into the cafe by him, his eyes never even looking at the patio, he'd completely missed him.

Kaneko's stomach rumbled as he moved quickly down the sidewalk. He'd stayed sequestered in his hotel room, but the cheap place didn't offer room service and he needed more food until he boarded the ship later in the day. Thankfully he caught the smell of pastries and coffee not far from his hotel. Following the scent, he decided on the closer of two cafes and waited in the lineup of people at the main counter. Selecting two sandwiches, some pastries and a coffee, he headed back to his hotel with his plastic bag of food swinging on his arm while he munched hungrily on a croissant. A group of construction workers were busy setting up a ladder against the side of his hotel when he returned. It appeared they were making repairs to the old faded building. Stepping into the shabby lobby, he stopped at the front desk where a clerk sat reading a magazine. Waving at him, the man turned and handed him his key. Feeling the weight of the cool metal, he chuckled at how old fashioned this place was, still using skeleton keys. But it was a perfect hideout since they accepted cash and the clerk barely glanced at his identification. Going up the stairs he found his third-floor room and tossed the bag of food on the desk. Opening up the doors to the small balcony, he sat on the single metal chair and enjoyed his breakfast, sniffing at the smell of the sea air, he was almost free.

Slipping into the crowd behind him at a comfortable distance, Akio watched as he entered his hotel. Taking a moment, he peered inside the front window. The entrance to the stairs were right by the front desk, which meant if he walked in and headed straight upstairs, he was sure the clerk would question him. Looking up at the building, he could see it was at least four floors and probably no more than twenty rooms. Waiting as Kaneko retrieved his key, he went inside once he started up the staircase. Approaching the man at the desk, he held up his hand as if fishing for his wallet, his ears were trained on the staircase. He counted Kaneko's heavy footfalls as he went up the wood stairs until he heard a door open. Looking up he smiled, "I'd like a room please." The man pushed some papers at him to fill out. Pulling cash from his wallet he picked up a pen, "am I able to check in now?"

"Yes, yes, we have a room, only western style beds though." His eyes landed on the cash, "I have to charge you extra for coming in so early."

"Not a problem." Akio pulled out more cash. "Do you need identification?" The man's eyes didn't look away from the money.

"No, just the money."

Akio hid a smile as he used a random name on the paperwork. His current favorite was a boy he'd known in elementary school. He wondered what he would think if he knew his name was being used to check into a hotel to kill a man. After retrieving his key, he noted his room was on the second floor. Looking up at the ceiling he guessed Kaneko was on the third floor based on how many steps he'd counted. Pulling out more money, Akio set the key on top of the stack. "By any chance, do you have any rooms on the third floor? I have a bit of a superstition."

Looking up from his magazine, the man nodded. "Yeah, I got tons of rooms on the third floor."

"Oh, am I alone? I prefer when there's no one else around me."

"Not alone, there's one other person up there but he's at the very end of the hall. How about if I put you at the opposite end?" He chose another room key and slid it across the counter, taking the cash.

"Not alone, there's one other person up there but he's at the very end of the hall. How about if I put you at the opposite end?" He chose another room key and slid it across the counter, taking the cash.

"Perfect, thank you." Akio shifted his backpack and walked slowly up the stairs, each step painful. Passing his room, he followed the simple U shape of the hallway until he reached the last room on the floor. Standing outside the door, he could hear movement and the scrape of a chair. Taking a deep breath, he pulled on his gloves as he cleared his throat. "Hello sir," Akio copied the deep northern accent of the clerk, "sorry to bother you, but there's been a request for you to change rooms. I know you're checking out today but would it be possible to move you down to the second floor?"

Kaneko spun in his chair and stared at the door, what the hell was this? Standing up he walked in from the balcony, hesitating in the middle of the room. "You didn't mention anything earlier, why now?"

"I'm so sorry sir, the contractors are finished on the other floor earlier than they expected and they'd like to start on this floor now."

Gritting his teeth Kaneko looked at his suitcase sitting half-packed on the bed. "I'd really rather not, as you mentioned I'm leaving today. Do I have to move?"

"I am so sorry, sir," Akio continued in the same heavy accent. "I'll give you a refund on your room if that would help. I have a really nice room on the second floor, I'll even help you with your bags."

Kaneko stepped back out onto the balcony and looked down the alleyway to the main road. The truck he'd seen earlier was parked in front of the hotel, men yelling as they pulled tools from the back. Letting out a frustrated growl, Kaneko ran to the bed and quickly zipped up his suitcase, then he marched to the door and yanked it open. "This is ridiculous-" his throat closed around his words as a hand shot out wrapping around his neck, crushing his windpipe. His eyes bulged as Akio pushed him into the room, smiling.

"Hello Kaneko," the door shut behind him. "You really shouldn't have run away."

"Oh shit," Kaneko whimpered as the sharp, pungent odor of urine filled the air, Akio glanced down, a disgusted look on his face. "I - I wasn't running away," Kaneko forced out from his constricted throat.

"Really? Why the fuck are you here then?"

"You were going to kill me," Kaneko rasped, clawing at the arm holding onto his neck. The hand tightened further, the image of Sawa's neck snapping filled his mind, tears slipped down his cheeks. "Please," he begged.

"Well, that might have worked yesterday, but you've made it an easier decision now." Looking around Akio spied the plastic bag on the desk, reaching over he dumped out the sandwiches. He could feel his strength was beginning to ebb, he needed to end this quickly.

"No." Kaneko could barely speak or breathe, everything was closing in on him.

Slipping the bag over Kaneko's face, Akio twisted the bottom tightly around his neck, never releasing the hold on his throat. The bag fluttered and moved with every breath as Kaneko began hyperventilating. Finally letting go, Akio pulled the plastic handles tight watching as it bit into the flesh around his neck. Kaneko's eyes bulged further, his mouth wide working to get air into his lungs. Akio grinned, "this is my favorite part, you look like a fish on land." Kaneko only gasped harder, the bag sucked into his mouth as his eyes rolled back in his head, he slumped forward. Catching his body, Akio pushed him onto the bed, never releasing his grip, suddenly his body began convulsing. "That's it," he ran his hand down his face as it went slack, "death looks good on you." One final jerk and he stilled. Waiting a few more seconds Akio let go, wincing as pain jabbed along his side. That had been harder than he'd expected.

Walking out onto the balcony, he peered over the railing at the alleyway. Down below was a large dumpster, gauging the distance, he shook his head, too far. Looking back at the bed, Akio laughed. "Western style beds only." Tugging Kaneko and his suitcase off the bed, he pushed the top mattress onto the floor. "Fuck," he pressed his hand on his side, he could feel a few of the larger gashes seeping blood through the bandages, he'd have to change everything again. Pulling his knife from his pocket he sliced the fabric around the edge of the box springs and snapped the thin boards across the middle, pushing the broken pieces inside. Hauling Kaneko's body up, he stumbled as a wave of nausea swept over him. Gasping, he thrust him into the box springs, Kaneko's head and chest fell into the opening. Pushing the rest of his body into the bed, he sat down at the desk catching his breath. The body was curled up in a fetal position almost completely inside the box springs. Using the last of his strength Akio pulled the mattress back over the body. Flopping back on the bed, he wiggled around, there was no way anyone would feel him. It would be the smell that would give him away, but by then, he'd be long gone. Sitting up slowly he put the suitcase back on the bed and unzipped it, pulling it open, he let out a soft whistle. Kaneko had packed clothes on one side but the other side was filled with money. "You rich mother fucker," he fingered the bills carefully stacked inside the suitcase, a large gold utility belt was coiled tightly in the middle of the money. "Huh," Akio fingered the frayed leather. Whatever it was, it had to be valuable knowing Kaneko's interest in valuable collectibles. Patting the bed, Akio smirked, "thanks asshole." Zipping up the suitcase, he grabbed the food and put it into his backpack. Pulling some bills out of his wallet, he left a tip for housekeeping and closed the door behind him. He needed to lie down in his own room for a few hours before he took the train back home.

"Well?" Ochako prodded Todoroki.

"Oi, Round Cheeks, can it!" Katsuki snapped.

"You're the one who told us," Momo glowered at him. "We just want to know if he really spoke with him."

"I did," Shouto's voice was barely a whisper.

"Hey," Bakugou turned back to him, his face drawn and pale. "Fuck, I'm so sorry." He held up his hand stopping him and sat down.

"They deserve to know," he looked at Kiri, "you saw him too, right? In your dream? He was screaming for help?"

"Yeah," Kiri leaned forward, clearing his throat, emotions welling up.

Glancing around the room, Shouto looked at everyone, "has anyone else seen him?" Heads shook.

"I wish I had," Denki mumbled, "I miss him."

"Me too Lighting Bolt," Momo pushed his shoulder gently. Denki choked out a laugh.

"What did he say to you?" Kiri asked quietly.

Sucking in a lungful of air, Shouto swirled the lumps of powdered cream refusing to melt. "First he said he needed help and that he didn't know where he was," he let out his breath slowly. "Someone was with him and for some reason they were trying to hurt Lida."

"Lida? Does this have something to do with why he's missing?" Shouta swiveled around in his chair.

"Well, he's not missing any more Captain." Katsuki leaned his arm on the wall protectively over Shouto, he wished the nerd had just come to him and not dragged Sho into this. "Matsuno called and said Tenya came back to work today, he was sick in the hospital. Apparently, he was so out of it he never checked in with anyone."

"But why is Midoriya protecting him then?"

"Maybe someone was after him in the hospital like Sugata?" Kiri suggested. "Which hospital was he at?"

He didn't say," Shouto chewed on his lips. "It's possible but it sounded like they were together physically and that someone was getting ready to attack Tenya. I tried to get him to say more but he was getting weaker and then his voice completely faded."

"Poor Izuku, do you think?" Ochako covered her mouth, her eyes glittering with unshed tears, she held Momo's hand tightly. "Do you think he might still be alive somewhere?"

Shouta bounced from his chair and started pacing behind his desk. "Hell," he gritted out, "you all carried the coffin and we buried a body."

"We think we buried a body."

"What about getting it exhumed?"

"Could we? Is that something we can do?" Denki looked hopefully at Captain Aizawa.

Holding up her hands, Arisu stopped him, "hang on, we have to have substantial evidence to dig up a grave, not to mention what that would do to his family."

"Inko." Katsuki sighed, "that would kill her."

"It would," Ochako agreed.

"Then where could he be?" Denki pouted, "and why would someone want us to think he's dead?"

"What about?" Shouto started then stopped himself. "No."

"What is it?" Katsuki let his hand drop to his shoulder, he squeezed him encouragingly.

"That weird black ball," he pursed his lips, "what if, what if someone took that? Maybe that's what they really wanted."

"Shit," Katsuki sank down into the chair beside him. "Do you think so?"

"Remember the hum? It was in my apartment and that - that taste," Shouto touched his lips, "it flooded my mouth, like something burnt by an electrical fire."

"What do you mean taste?" Arisu walked to stand in front of the two men. Bakugou flicked her an annoyed glare.

"The day the Nerd got sucked into that energy with All For One, there was this strange sound, like a million angry bees stuck in your head and a taste," Shouto licked his lips, "like touching the tip of a 9 volt battery with your tongue."

"Oh shit!" Denki gasped, "we used to do that in middle school, your mouth floods with a funky metallic taste!"

"It was the same when you hit me with your lightning that one time," Ochako rubbed her side unconsciously.

"Really?" He blushed, "you know that was an accident, right?"

Smiling at him reassuringly, Ochako nodded, "I know, you've apologized a thousand times, that jerk cut right in front of me after you went for him, I told you, I was fine." She rubbed her side harder, "but the taste in my mouth, it sounds like it was the same, maybe Izuku's being electrocuted in some way?"

"Think they're using it as a power source?" Kiri peered up at Arisu who was standing over Todoroki.

"Like a generator?"

"I don't know," Kiri leaned back in his chair, "I'm just guessing." Rubbing his neck, he sighed, "I think he's alive because in my dream we were carrying the casket and it fell but there was no body inside."

"That's what's got me convinced he isn't dead," Katsuki drummed his fingers on his leg.

"Remember," Shouta huffed, "a dream is not reality."

"No, it's real," Katsuki clenched his jaw, "this is Izuku talking to us and we know it." Captain snapped his mouth closed, clamping his lips together.

"He's right," Kiri nodded, "After the coffin fell, I began chasing him in an office building, there were a ton of stairs and he kept screaming for help."

"He showed you where he is," Shouto turned to look at Kirishima.

"An office that can trap an energy force with the power of a black hole." Katsuki raised his brows, "that's one big fucking electric bill."

"The ministry compound," Arisu blurted out, "it has the biggest electric grid in the country."

Snorting loudly, Katsuki grinned. "Oi, been saying that all along, you finally hearing us? I bet it's Uchiyama. She's got Izuku, now Lida, she already covered up that shit with her son, that woman is doing something over there."

"Cover up?" Arisu darted a quick look at Shouta "Wait! How'd you-" she stopped herself. "I, um, what do you mean?"

Rolling his eyes, Katsuki gave her a deadpan look, "you're kidding right? Whoever covered up his arrest fucked up and forgot to hide the evidence. Once Sawa's body showed up with the bag of counterfeit stuff, it was easy to connect the dots." He cocked a brow as a red blush tinged her cheeks. "It was you," he laughed, "you forgot to erase the evidence, didn't you?"

Standing straighter Arisu put her hands on her hips, "it doesn't matter anymore, you figured out what I came to tell you." She stalked back to Shouta's desk and leaned on the edge. "Last week there was a robbery within the high-ranking ministry officers, several authentic pro hero items were stolen."

"Let me guess," Katsuki drawled sarcastically, "the Uchiyamas were guests at the party."

"Yes, they were." The room grew quiet, more investigators were coming into the hallway outside, laughing and talking as they started their day.

"The fake stuff came with the body, the real shit is still missing." Katsuki began typing on his phone, walking to Arisu, he held it out. "Type in the password, I wanna see this hidden case."

Grabbing a paper cup off the shelf Neito yawned as he filled it with coffee.

"Don't do it," Nishi laughed, slapping him on the back as he peered over his shoulder watching in fascination. "You really love that shit, don't you?"

"Fuck! Damn you," Neito elbowed his partner in the chest, jumping as the scalding liquid sloshed over the side. "I'm not awake enough for you to scare me like that!"

Grabbing both his shoulders, Nishi squeezed hard. "You're just too tense, man, you need to loosen up." Picking up a sweet bread from a large box someone had brought, he stuffed his mouth full.

"Keep eating that and you'll get fat," Neito snickered, punching his stomach. "Come on, let's finish up our paperwork before the meeting today."

"They pushed it back to nine." Nishi mumbled through his full mouth.

"Why?" Neito sipped the thick coffee, he'd never liked the damn stuff, but it was hot and woke him up better than anything he could buy.

Chewing and swallowing Nishi looked down the hall, "Commander Imai has a big wig here checking up on some cases." He threw the last of the bread into his mouth as they sat at their adjoining desks.

"Let me guess, their cases?" Neito gritted his teeth as Nishi ignored him and turned on his computer. "Fuck them, come in here thinking they own the place and now everyone's making such a big fuss over them."

"Well, they did end up finding Suguta Ren," Nishi signed into his account and scrolled through their last case.

"They didn't find her! She fucking turned herself in with a dead body all wrapped up in a damn ribbon." Gulping down another huge swallow of the boiling coffee he gasped as it burned a path to his stomach. "Shit," he coughed, grabbing his water and cooling his mouth.

"Rug."

"What?" He looked at Nishi.

"The body, it was wrapped in a rug not a ribbon," Nishi managed to keep a straight face as he read the report on their last case. "The forensics lab came back on that burglary case, our perp's fingerprints are all over the kitchen, looks like it's pretty slam dunk."

"Rug," Neito muttered, wheeling his chair around. "Ha, ha, asshole," he glared at Nishi. Sliding up next to him, he checked out the notes on the case. "Good, let's close this one and send everything over to the commander for final approval before sending it to the prosecutor." He sat back pouting as Nishi closed the case. When he returned to the main page, Neito noticed the latest reports of the day listed. "What's that?" He pointed to a case near the top, CSA4890 - Kirishima Eijirou.

"Huh, why does he have a case with his name?"

"Open it," Neito reached over his hand and clicked on his mouse. The details popped up, a picture of Kiri and several pictures of his wounded arm lined the side of the screen. "He was attacked?"

"Look at this, in Suguta Ren's hospital room. Sounds like there was a person hiding in the room who threw a knife at Kirishima but it bounced off of his chest." Nishi scrolled down further. "They fought and he managed to hurt the perp, who then ran off bleeding based on the blood found in the stairwell." He turned hearing Neito chuckle. "What's so funny?"

"Not funny," Neito smirked, "that idiot just made my whole fucking week," sipping his coffee he ignored the burned numbness on his tongue. "You may have landed the punch in the ring asshole, but I'm gonna knock you out."

"What's up?" Nishi looked back at the computer, "am I missing something?"

"Yep," Neito slapped his back, "the Sturdy Hero is turning out to be the Stupid Hero." He jumped from his chair, "did you say Imai was in?"

"Yeah, but I think he's got company," he called as Neito darted for the door, straightening his tie, "I don't get it, what did he do?"

"Read it closer Nishi," Neito turned around walking backwards into the hallway, "he used his quirk." Kicking up his heel he spun back around laughing.

"Oh, shit," Nishi read the statement again, "that stupid fucker, they're gonna throw him off the force."

Sitting down, Katsuki read through the case notes with pictures of Sawa.

"Oh! Commissioner Nakama," Ochako sat up. "I'd asked Captain for details on the A/V equipment in the homeless camp."

"Actually," Arisu pulled a packet of paper out from her briefcase, "my assistant gave this to me last night, but honestly with my day I haven't had a chance to go through it yet." She handed her a thick stack of papers. "Why don't you go through this and let me know if you see any orders then we can cross check and source it."

"Thank you!" Ochako jumped up and grabbed the packet, laughing at the size. "Wow, this thing is over 100 pages long."

"I do run the entire police network," Arisu's eyes twinkled, she lifted the pen in her hand, "down to pens and paper."

"I'm surprised it's not automated," Denki tapped the huge report.

"It is," Arisu blushed, "we're just behind. Unfortunately, someone still has to input the order manually. Budget cuts from the Prime Minister and the disaster in the lower ward has put the administrative division at the bottom. We've ordered a new system but we're still waiting for approval." She lifted the pen, "best technology in the world when it comes to our cases, but our office equipment gets no love." Ochako sat, starting to flip through the pages.

"Oh, how's Sugata by the way?" Kiri fingered his bandage. "Any updates on her progress?"

"She's fine Kirishima, thanks to you. We moved her to a secure wing." Looking at her phone she picked up her bag, "in fact I have to meet the Defense Minister at the hospital in about an hour for a promotional visit."

"A promotional visit?"

"Politician thing," Arisu sighed, "reporters eat up whatever he'll spin about the story."

"Can I come?" Kiri slid to the edge of his seat. "I just want to see her."

"Can we come?" Ochako corrected, "we don't know where they moved her. I couldn't get any information last night when we went to check on her after the attack."

"Sure, if you want to hang out for the circus, you're welcome."

There was a sharp knock on the door. Crossing the room Captain Aizawa opened the door, Commander Imai gave him a curt nod.

"Captain," he held up a piece of paper, "this complaint was just filed by one of my investigators."

Taking the paper, Shouta read through the report. "Are you serious?" he hissed, turning and looking at Kirishima.

"What's wrong? Arisu walked over and plucked the paper out of his hand.

Letting out an agitated growl, Shouta cocked a brow at Imai. "Kirishima Eijiro, it appears you are being brought up on charges for using your quirk while on duty."

Kiri bounced out of his chair, "I'm being charged?"

"You are Kirishima," Arisu nodded.

"That's bullshit!" Denki jumped up, "of course he used his quirk, if he didn't, he'd be dead!"

"Kaminari," Imai gave him a menacing glare, "it is against regulation to activate a quirk. You were all given explicit directions on that directive," his glittering black eyes staring him down.

"That's fucked," Katsuki leaned back in his chair, swallowing the anger threatening to explode. "Commander, isn't it true that sometimes people just make mistakes? Things get missed and get a little out of hand."

"Don't pull that shit on me Bakugou-"

"Commander," Arisu interrupted him. "Thank you for bringing this to my attention, I would like to handle this personally."

"As you wish," he bowed curtly. Walking to Kirishima he held out his hand.

"What?" Kiri pulled back.

"I need your badge and gun until the investigation is finished."

"Are you kidding?" he looked pleadingly at Aizawa, "do I have to Captain?"

Gesturing to him, Shouta nodded. Reluctantly Kiri pulled out everything and handed it to him.

"This is so stupid," Ochako burst out, "who even accused him?"

"Monoma Neito filed the report." Arisu reached out and took Kiri's things from the Commander. "I'll hold those for now."

"Fuck! I hate that guy," Denki kicked at his chair.

"We're all one team Kaminari!" Imai scolded. "We need to work together and I expect there will be no retaliation against Monoma for doing his job." Striding to the door, he felt a flash of heat against his back, spinning around, Bakugou was halfway into Todoroki's lap, struggling to grab his hands. "What - what was that?"

"I'm not sure, did something happen?" Shouta raced to the door, ushering him into the hall. "The meeting starts soon, we'll see you there."

Shoving his finger into his chest, Imai pressed into Aizawa. "Don't protect their asses or I'll come after yours next." Stepping back, he brushed off his suit, "and tell that dumb blonde he got lucky this time!"

Going back into the room, Shouta locked the door and stared at Todoroki, words escaping him.

"Get off me!" Shouto shoved Katsuki, "your ass is too big!"

"Todoroki," Ochako giggled nervously, "I expected that from Bakugou, you've been hanging out too long with him."

"Imai's an idiot," Shouto strained to get his hands free. "Get off!" Finally, Katsuki stood up, releasing him.

"Oi, you really wanna get kicked off the force with Shitty Hair? Two fucking idiots," he looked between the two men. "And my ass is not big," he gruffed.

"Everyone done playing?" Arisu grabbed her briefcase. "You two," she pointed to Ochako and Kirishima, "come with me, the rest of you attempt to be professional if you want your friend back on the force." Heading to the door, she swept a dark look over the group. "This isn't a damn game."

Sitting across from Tenya, Matsuno felt relief for the first time, "I'm so happy you're okay," she murmured while drinking her coffee. His blush made her laugh, "sorry, I know! I can't stop, but I was so scared." The outer double doors swung open, turning Matsuno sprang to her feet as Uchiyama entered the office.

"Hello Matsuno," Nana's gaze landed on Tenya, her whole body flinching. "Lida?" She stopped in her tracks. "You? You're here?" She looked questioningly back at Matsuno, who smiled and clapped her hands.

"Yes! He was sick! Isn't that great," Matsuno exclaimed cheerfully. "Well, not that sick is good, but he's okay," she burst out laughing. "They didn't know who to contact so no one knew."

"They?" She needed to call Akio, now.

"The hospital staff, Assistant Minister," Tenya bowed. "Please accept my apologies for not contacting anyone."

"It's okay, you were sick," she continued towards her office, her eyes never coming off of him. "How do you feel today?"

"Excellent, ready to take on that project you assigned me on the recycling of old equipment from the military."

"Good, yes, please work on that, I need to give it to Kezu next week,"

"But Assistant Minister, why did you come in?" Matsuno noticed her black dress, "aren't you taking time off?"

"I was but honestly I'm going stir crazy sitting at home." She fidgeted with her briefcase, her eyes darting back to Lida, "the Minister asked me to come in for a quick meeting, he'll be here soon."

"Okay, do you want coffee? Also, I have your schedule."

"That would be nice, thank you Matsuno." She ducked into her office, she set her bag down on her desk and plopped into her large leather chair. Her mind reeling from Tenya. Why was he not saying anything? He was acting like nothing had happened. Had they done something to him? "Crap," she looked at her phone, it was too late to call Akio, Kezu would be in her office any minute. What she needed was to talk to the investigators again, maybe she should call that Captain. She needed to be able to make a statement and mention Sawa's work at Akio's place. If they searched that office. She squeezed her eyes shut and imagined them finding the backpack, she clenched her teeth. If he was arrested, she could shut everything down below and start fresh. And if Lida did end up ever cornering her, she'd think of something. One thing she'd learned these past few months is that everyone has a price. All she wanted was justice for her son and to wipe her hands clean of this mess.

"Poor Nana," Matsuno sighed as she poured her coffee.

"Did something happen?" Tenya warmed his own cup.

"Oh, you were gone!" She wrapped her hands around the mug. "Her son was found murdered."

"Her son? Sawa? He's dead!?"

"I know, so sad, did you know him?"

"No, but I researched Uchiyama when I was assigned here, I knew about her family." He ran his finger along the ridge of his cup, "he was really young."

"Hello?" Kezu stepped into the office.

"Defense Minister," Matsuno ran to meet him, she bowed. "Uchiyama is waiting for you Sir, may I take you inside?"

"No need," he smiled warmly, his eyes landing on Lida, he stepped back. "Oh, you're, uh," Kezu's normally calm face slipped.

"Oh Minister, I'm not sure if you've met Lida Tenya."

"I have," he stared at the man standing by the coffee station.

"He was sick the other day and went to the hospital. We all thought he'd been kidnapped or something," Matsuno spoke so fast her words tumbled one over the other. "Of course, that was so silly, but he's back now and we're so relieved." She covered a giggle seeing his face. "Uchiyama had the same look on her face! Although that was nothing compared to me this morning!" She rolled her eyes. "I almost had a heart attack when I saw him!"

"I - I can imagine," he eyed the babbling woman before turning back to Tenya. "If you are sick, shouldn't you take some time off?"

"No, thank you, Sir." Tenya shook his head, "I'm ready to work, in fact, I've never felt better."

"Okay," he glanced back at Matsuno, "be sure to keep a close eye on him, if anything seems off contact me immediately."

"You, sir?" Matsuno furrowed her brow.

"Well, I - I want to be sure all my employees are healthy," he stammered, glancing at his watch. "I have a press conference soon, I need to talk to Uchiyama."

"Well, I do need to give her this coffee, do you mind if I take you inside?"

"Not at all Matsuno," the young girl's face flushed hearing him remember her name. Escorting him inside, she set the coffee on Uchiyama's desk, retreating quickly.

"Minister," Nana picked up the coffee. "What's on the agenda today?"

"First, how are you?" He extended his hand across the desk.

"Oh," she stared at his small hand reaching out towards her. "I, um, I'm trying to stay busy," his hand opened and he gestured for hers. Slowly she placed her hand awkwardly in his. His thick fingers wrapped around her, squeezing firmly, he put his other hand on top.

"I'm sorry for everything."

"Thank you, Kezu." Nana pulled back gently but he held tight.

"I understand that there will be investigators that will be coming to talk to you again." Surprise flickered across her face.

"They are?" She managed to suppress the sheer joy from showing on her face. "I imagine they have a lot of questions about Sawa? I wonder if they've found something." She didn't have to feign the hope in her voice, how long before they found the backpack?

"Yes and I wanted to remind you of a few things," Kezu could feel the inky blackness welling inside his body, his vision blurring as he focused on her mind.

"Remind me?" Nana squirmed, his hand was hot, a strange warmth shot up her arm.

"Your son, where he worked."

"Watanabe Auto Restoration."

"No."

Nana furrowed her brow, "yes, Akio was his boss." Suddenly an image sliced through her brain, painfully. Groaning, she rubbed her forehead.

"No, he worked for Nobuyuki Auto Repair, over in the 4th district," pulling a card from his pocket he pushed it across the desk, still holding her hand firmly. Nana stared at the card as if memorizing every letter. "Do you remember?"

"Nobuyuki," she repeated, "right he restores old cars?"

"Fixes cars, engine repair. Sawa was doing an internship."

"He loved that," Nana smiled at the memories filling her head, "he was always so good with his hands, fixing everything around the house."

"Why did he take that job?"

"Because of Akio-" she jumped as a sharp searing jolt raced up her arm into her mind, she bowed her head. "Ow!" She seethed through gritted teeth.

"Who?"

"Who?" She panted, another man flipped into her thoughts, he had a round face and thin mustache, what was his name? "N - Nobuyuki!" She remembered, "he hired Sawa after he was released from jail." She looked confused, "but he was blackmailing me?" Another jolt ripped through her. "Ung," a wave of nausea rolled through her stomach.

"I guess blackmailing is a strong word for such a big favor. Especially after you sent the email through my account," he tipped his head as her eyes narrowed.

"Email? Sir?"

"The one that you sent out in my name. You stole my password and sent an email to Commissioner Nakama after she refused to help your son."

"I did?" Nana jerked back as the image of her typing an email filled her mind. "I did," she breathed out.

"Yes, Nana, and I figured it out. You need to be careful. Nakama has it out for you and she kept a copy. They know someone hacked my account."

"Defense Minister!" Nana tried to tug her hand back but he crushed her fingers into an iron grip. "That- that hurts," tears stung her eyes.

"It's a matter of time for you, but you don't need to know that," his voice took on a soothing, almost lilting tone. "It's okay Uchiyama Nana, no one knows anything, your secret is still undiscovered."

"It is?" She sagged slightly as she relaxed. "But what about?" The name that had flowed so easily before now escaping her, she tried to find it in her memory, "Nobuyuki?"

"What about him?"

"He's doing something here, in the building. They've got homeless people down there. I get texts, lists of stuff he needs, I - I've been holding that area off from anyone else."

"Show me the texts." Kioku waited as she found the string of texts with Akio on her phone.

"The name," she shivered as her mind flexed painfully.

"That person is no one you know." Sliding his finger on her phone, he clicked delete and removed him from her contact list. "Nobuyuki isn't blackmailing you, in fact you threatened him to hire your son."

"I did?" Her face paled beneath her heavy make-up. "But what about the basement, the space?"

"You've been building labs for me, remember? No homeless people living down there, just laboratories to study quirks."

"I haven't been doing that!" She moaned as he squeezed her hand harder, another ripple spread through her mind. She felt a slow trickle of blood drip down inside her nose. She grabbed a tissue. "Sorry!"

"Yes, you have, Nana." Kezu pushed deeper, working through her memories, changing the images cascading through her mind. You had the space reserved for my research project. You've been moving equipment down to the workers."

"The goons," Nana shivered.

"They aren't friendly but calling them goons is a little mean," Kioku chuckled. "They discovered that the electrical won't support your specs, remember the meeting with Lida Tenya and the workers? You went over the development plans."

"Yes, yes I told them to get Lida," she closed her eyes against the melting image.

"To get him? Or to work with him? He understands electricity and they were going to show him the issues they had found in the lab."

Fingering her temple, she tried to remember, a pounding pain throbbed in her head. "That - that's right, he was talking to them, because," she saw Lida's face, he was frightened but then his features melted slowly until she saw him listening intently to the goons, they were holding a piece of paper.

"Do you see them discussing the specs?"

"The specs?" She glanced up at him as he pulled something out of his pocket. "Minister!" She gasped seeing his eyes, they were completely black, not a bit of white showing. "Are you okay?"

"Yes, Nana, I'm fine," he smiled, "there's nothing wrong with my eyes. Here," he tapped the contractor's specs. "Remember the electrical issues? We don't have enough power for the laboratory."

Looking down at the paper he had pushed towards her, the image blurred as she tried to focus. It was a map of the basement area covered with endless notes, "I don't really understand," she flinched waiting for the pain.

"It's quite complicated but they advised you that the wattage system doesn't have enough output."

"That's what they told me?" Disbelief filled her voice.

"That's right," Kioku waited to see if she would fight the memory, after a few seconds she relaxed again.

"I remember, yes, then I saw you on my way out but Lida didn't come back with me."

"He needed to finish up with them, that's when he got sick and went to the hospital."

"That's what happened," sighing, she laughed nervously, "I thought he was going to be killed by the goons."

"I don't think the contractors would kill anyone, do you?" Her eyes closed tightly as her face contorted in pain again.

"No! No, they - they wouldn't."

Letting go of her hand Kioku sat back, she was breathing heavily, sweat beading on her brow. The blackness in his eyes faded, pulling out his handkerchief, he passed it to her. "You look warm, Nana, are you feeling well?"

"I am, I just," she shook her head, her heart hammered in her chest. What happened? Looking at her blank notepad she scrambled to remember what he had asked her. "I'm sorry Minister, I - I lost my train of thought, what were you saying?"

"I just want you to take it easy," he cooed gently. "Now that we know we cannot set up the labs here, Endeavor will take over and work with the board at UA to set up the facility at the campus until you have had proper time to grieve your loss."

"Thank you," screwing up her face Nana concentrated, there was something else, a thought that passed through her mind, but it was just out of reach. "If it's alright, I would rather work." Leaning back, she felt the beginnings of a headache, she sipped her coffee, caffeine always helped her in the morning.

"You don't want to take any time off?"

"No Sir, I like the distraction."

"Work on the projects you have already and if Todoroki needs help, I'll let you know." Standing he smiled tenderly at her. "Do your best, Assistant Minister, you always do," picking up his briefcase, he left the office.

A half-smile on her face, Nana watched him leave, he was the nicest boss. Glancing out the big picture window behind her, she gazed at the clouds rolling back in, thick and black. "More rain," she mumbled. The clouds blocked the sun causing her office to grow dark for a moment. Darkness. The memory scuttled in her mind again, a backpack, running across the street, a sign hanging crooked. She stopped and tried to read what the sign said, a red-hot lancing pain sliced in her head. "Shit!" She rubbed her temples, another trickle of blood leaked from her nose. "What?" She held her head back, "what the hell is wrong with me today?"

Standing to the side of the crush of reporters, Arisu waited with the others as Kezu finished his statement.

"I'm only here to give my well wishes to a faithful ministry employee, she dedicated her life to our country as a guard. Her disappearance was traumatic to all of those who loved her and worked alongside her. We are happy Suguta Ren has been found and a warm thank you to the media as well for their hard work in helping us find her."

Sighing, Arisu looked at her watch. Visiting hours had just started, she really needed to get back to the office. Her phone flashed with a text, it was Todoroki.

Endeavor - Tomorrow after work for the UA tour?

Typing quickly, she stayed out of the Minister's view.

Arisu - Yes

Endeavor - Dinner after?

Doing a double take, Arisu glanced back up as Kezu called for questions. Was Endeavor asking her out? She looked back at the phone and scoffed, he was being social, that was all.

Arisu - Sure, if there's time. Meet you outside the main gates at 6.

Endeavor - See you then.

Her fingers hovered over the screen, she debated asking Shouta his thoughts.

"The Commissioner of the NPL, Nakama and two of our own criminal investigators from the new PHIC unit, Kirishima and Uraraka, are with me. These two were instrumental in resolving this case and finding this dear woman." There was a smattering of applause. "In fact," he continued, "it was Kirishima Eijirou that personally saved Suguta and I'm positive that he will apprehend this fiend before too long." Turning he beamed at the blushing hero, he began applauding him personally, the reporters joining him. Finally, Kioku bowed to the media. "We really must go in and see the patient, any further questions can be directed to my office through our official media division." The reporters yelled out a few questions, but he shook his head and turned toward the hospital lobby doors.

"Nakama?" Ochako moved up next to her. "When are you going to tell him that Kiri was removed from the force?"

Arisu bit her lip, "soon, the fact that he just personally congratulated him could help his case." She walked faster to flank the Minister. "Sir, she's in the executive wing." Arisu looped around to the private elevator, holding her badge to the keypad, she pushed the button. "Also, about Kirishima," she took a quick breath and pulled the paperwork from her bag, this was either going to be good or go very badly. "He's been removed from the force." Kezu did a double take looking from her to the paper then up at the large red-head, who's face matched his hair. He read through the charges as they stepped into the elevator.

"You used your quirk?"

"I did," Eijirou settled against the wall as they lurched upwards, "I'm sorry but the person had a knife which had already sliced my arm, if I hadn't," he bobbed his head looking down, "I'd have a hole in my heart."

"Yes, I can see you would," Kioku murmured, "but it's against regulations, Kirishima." Rubbing his forehead, he sighed, "I wish I had known this earlier." He glared at Nakama, had she done this purposely? "I've given you a personal recommendation in front of the media that will now be on every channel."

"I know sir," fidgeting Kiri could feel himself sweating under his scrutiny. Ochako brushed his hand lightly with her own, a small touch but it was a welcome show of support. "Excuse me, Minister?"

"Yes, Kirishima?

"Do you have a quirk?" He looked startled by the question.

"No - no, I've never shown any aptitude for a quirk."

"Oh," Kiri looked up as the elevator rocked to a stop, the doors sliding open. They stepped into a silent hallway, plush carpet and soft tones of paint made the area feel like a home rather than a hospital. There was a nurse at the main station with a police guard by her desk. "I wasn't sure if you knew how they work."

"Well Kirishima, that's what my quirk program is about, understanding how they work. When they manifest and how they are inherited or developed."

"I get that part. What I'm talking about is how you use them, at least for my quirk, well, it's like a reflex."

"A reflex?"

"I can choose to harden my skin if I know I'm going to be in a fight, but it can also just happen instinctively." A doctor walked by and began talking with the nurse. Kiri's face lit up. "Have you ever had your knee hit with one of those hammers by a doctor?"

"I have, yes, in my physical."

"And did your knee jerk?"

"It did," Kioku saw where he was going, "but Kiri, a quirk isn't like-"

"But it is," Eijirou interrupted, red eyes challenging him. "I've been training over ten years on how to use my quirk to the point that it just happens when I'm in danger. I get that you don't want me to use it willingly, but," he shrugged, "if I'm attacked, I'm not sure I could stop myself."

"I see." Kioku waited for Nakama to speak with the guard outside Suguta's room. "So, even in the future you'd engage your quirk if you were in a fight?"

"Possibly, yes."

He glanced at Uraraka, "and you?"

"My quirk isn't quite like that, though," Ochako thought about fights she'd had in the past. "One time I activated it automatically during a fight allowing me to hover above a pool of acid. I'm not sure if it's the same thing, but I guess it could happen instinctively for me too."

"We can go in," Arisu waved them down the hall.

Clenching the paper in his hand, Kioku looked between the two. "Nakama," his voice edged with anger, "reinstate investigator Kirishima with a reprimand."

"Yes Sir, immediately." She pushed open the door keeping her eyes downcast, she bit back a smile.

Looking past her to the woman lying in the bed, he shoved the complaint back into her hand. "I want all persons on the police force with quirks to be graded, defensive versus offensive." He paused, "Dynamite's fire is absolutely offensive even if used defensively."

"I believe that can be done quickly as all officers register their quirk at time of hire."

"Good," his voice was clipped, "if it enhances an officer's performance in a non-combative way, then we may need to re-consider the statute against quirks for those that put their lives on the line for the citizens."

"Yes, Minister." Waiting as he approached Suguta, Arisu looked over her shoulder, cocking a brow at Kiri. "You did more in five minutes than all of us have been able to do in four months, good job." She whispered and stepped into the room. The Minister was sitting on the edge of bed holding Suguta's hand, his head hung down.

Ochako squeezed Kiri's arm and grinned at him as they moved up against the wall, staying quiet.

"I hope she'll wake up soon," Kiri leaned close to Ochako, he felt a wave of relief wash over him. He'd been so scared that he'd be cut off from his job, from his friends. Funny, he hadn't wanted it at first, but now, he realized it wasn't that much different from his work as a pro hero.

"At least she's safe now." Arisu watched the multitude of monitors connected to her pinging steadily, her chest barely moving under the stark white blanket. Suddenly a small blip on one of the screens popped up off the normal readings. Leaning forward, she squinted at the display across the room, another small jump. "Sir?" Kezu lifted his head, not turning around.

"Yes?"

"I think Suguta might know you're here, look," she walked around the bed and studied at the monitor. "I think this one is for brain activity. I wonder if she can feel your hand or something," she gasped as another blip crossed the screen. "That's really amazing."

"Mmmm," he murmured, "it is."

Holding her breath, she glanced between Suguta and the monitor as it jumped every few seconds. Her foot twitched under the sheet.

"I saw that," Kiri pointed to the bed.

Her mouth twitched next, her lips opening as a soft moan escaped her lips.

"Sir!"

"Should we get the nurse? I think she might be waking up." Ochako exclaimed excitedly.

"Yes, yes, why don't you all get the nurse," Kioku waved at them, he needed to focus. He'd never tried this with an unconscious person.

"All of us?" Arisu waited but he didn't answer. Nodding, she pushed them out of the room and down the hall to the nurse station.

"Good news!" Ochako grinned, running to the nurse, "Suguta is responding to the Minister's touch!"