Quirk: Chakra
Chapter 9: Next Step.
Author's Notes: Hey, guys! Good day to all of you. This chapter has quite a quick pace, just to push the story along. I have skipped the lemon, only mentioning it to show it happened. Honestly, I don't know how to write a good lemon. I would either make it too fluffy or too rough. I can't find a balance. If you guys want it, I will add a lemon in the future. Let me know.
Sakazuki Residence, Dining table.
After the earlier emotionally touching scene, everybody had calmed down. Auntie decided this was time dinner right then, so we were sitting at the table waiting for it. I was sitting to mom's left while Izuku was to her right. Dad was to my left. My cousins were sitting opposite to us, and to their left were auntie and uncle.
"I have to say, I'm impressed by you two, especially Izuku. I never thought my baby would be standing shoulder to shoulder with Reito in Japan's biggest sports festival. Oh my.", mom said while patting both of us on our shoulders.
"Thank you, mom.", I said as I took a bite of my meal.
"It is a bit surreal. To think I'm a proud mother of two heroes that are going to top the charts!", she placed her hands on her cheeks with closed eyes. She looked cute that way. At least dad seems to think so. In my opinion, their marriage is not so far off.
'Let's just ask them about it.', I thought before speaking, "That is all well and good, but what I'm most interested in is both of you marrying quickly."
My statement caught them both off guard as dad began sputtering indignantly and mom was blushing furiously while looking away.
"Wh-what a time to drop a bomb shell like that!", dad responded. "But I guess you have never been one for subtlety." he rubbed his neck. "You see… these things… take time…"
He was surely taking his sweet time in formulating a coherent sentence. In the meantime, auntie cut him off, "Just give a straight answer to the kid. Reito, Izuku, your parents are going to be married in one month!"
They sure grew close fast enough. Talk about a shotgun marriage. "Wow." was all I could say at the moment.
"That's great, mom, dad! I can't wait.", Izuku spoke next. "When was this decided?"
My brother pointed out a good plot-hole in the story. Either way, I kept listening.
"O-on our third date.", mom answered for both of them.
"You two went to a third date? When did that happen?", I asked them with growing curiosity.
"Yesterday.", dad answered this time.
"Amazing. I'm happy for you two. You both grew close in such a short time.", I placed a hand on dad's shoulder.
"Thanks, son. And it's not like we didn't know each other before now. We just… clicked, I assume that' how you kids refer to it."
The conversation switched many topics after that and we had a merry dinner. Finish up with that pleasant affair, the family was sitting in the living room talking up a storm. It was nice to have the family all together and bond over menial things.
"Oh, yes! I almost forgot. There is one matter to solve before the marriage.", mom spoke up and everyone fell silent to listen to her. "I will be moving here so what will we do about my apartment?"
I see opportunity. "Izuku and I'll take it!", I blurted out without hesitation.
"That was fast.", uncle remarked.
"Hehe. It's because I have been giving this whole thing some thought for a while now.", I rubbed the back of my neck in embarrassment.
"That's a great idea, actually. I agree.", dad spoke up with a thumbs up to mom.
"It seems it is settled then.", mom answered with an amused sigh. "Is that alright with you, Izuku?"
"Of course! We will get a bachelor's pad. Awesome." he beamed with his answer.
"My, look at you. You've become more expressive with your emotions lately, my baby.", mom pointed out something I didn't notice. Of course she would. She has been taking care of him by herself for all his life, ever since his father died and left them that apartment that is now going to be ours. Damn it, stop thinking about your gains during this momentous occasion!
"Oh, huh. I-I didn't notice.", he scratched his temple. "I guess Reito rubbed off no me."
"Damn right, I did. Otherwise you wouldn't have gotten yourself a girlfriend.", I pointed at him.
"What!", everyone yelled at the same time for this revelation.
"Eeek!", came Izuku's shriek. "Wh-what a-are you t-talking about, Reito! That was supposed to be a secret! And I'm not the only one who got a girlfriend!"
"Forget him, when did you get so brave?", auntie came in with her bluntness.
"Oh, my baby boy is growing up. I'm so happy!", mom swooned over him.
"Goo job, son! I'm proud of you!", dad gave him a thumbs up.
"Congratulations.", both of my cousins said at the same time.
I was aware that they were ignoring me. Even though Izuku tried to drag me with him, no one even gave a second thought about me getting a girlfriend. Only in his case, it was a miracle. I looked him in his eyes that promised pain for my betrayal and mouthed off "You are welcome." to him as he became the topic for the rest of the night. Everyone was hounding him with questions and I was deflecting the rare ones that were sent my way over towards him.
I will get my due punishment later. Of that I am certain. But it was fun messing with him.
Hina Perfecture, Main Square.
Right now I was waiting for Tooru-chan at the fountain in the middle of the square. We had decided to meet here for our promised date yesterday. I was wearing a maroon full-sleeved shirt with sleeves rolled up to my biceps and one button undone, a jet black jeans with a simple light brown leather belt and light brown dress-shoes. I had also borrowed dad's gold-plated watch for this evening. Currently it showed half-past five. This was the promised meeting time.
I was training my chakra senses by trying to pinpoint her location. Her beacon-like bright chakra was visible to me far past my range of half a kilometer. I just thought this was good training and I should use my time effectively, it will pay it's dividends later. Even though what I was doing was completely creepy.
I was fifteen minutes early just in case the traffic at the station was too much. This was the off-time for many part-timers. Luckily, I wasn't held up and arrived with time to spare.
By my estimation, Tooru-chan must be getting off her train right about now. Judging by my senses, it was less than 150 meters away. Might take her a few minutes to reach here though. I just took out my phone to scroll through forums I was following while keeping my chakra senses open.
It didn't take her long to come though. When her chakra felt close enough and confused I decided to locate her myself.
"Good evening, beautiful.", I spoke from behind her.
She quickly spun around and her dress fluttered in the wind. Her eyes met mine. I almost felt myself faint from the radiance she was exuding. He dress was red and had many intricate designs on both front and back. She also wore matching heels and gold ear-rings along with red bangles. She was absolutely stunning!
"Reito-kun! Oh wow. You're looking totes handsome.", she said while checking me out. She was sporting a slight blush.
"Thank you, my lady. I have to say, you are drop-dead gorgeous today.", I complimented her.
"Thanks you, my good sir.", she mimicked me.
Though, I did suggest the theme to be red for our date, this was just beyond awesome. She was killing it in her dress. My heart cannot take it!
"What's wrong, Reito-kun? Why are you making that face?", she cutely tilted her head while pointing out my scrunched up face.
"Don't mind me. I am just failing to restart my brain after gazing at you."
She gave a giggle, "Thanks. My mom suggested this when we went shopping yesterday. She said you would love it. I'm glad she was right."
"When you see her, pass on my deepest thanks.", I said with a bow.
"Hehe. Should we get on with our date or do you want to make a spectacle out of us?", playfully she asked.
"Right. Date. Got it. Almost forgot.", I said with exaggerated motions then offered her my arm. "Shall we?"
She nodded with enthusiasm and intertwined her arm with mine. Our first stop for the evening was this amazing restaurant dad had discovered on one of his parties with his colleagues. I had never been there, and it apparently did not require reservations. Even though it was supposed to be a five star restaurant. I'll take it.
When we got there I took in the surrounding. It was quaint and spacious. Not many customers at this time as it is more lively at night. I took Too-chan to a table in a quiet corner so that we're not disturbed.
"You come here often?", my date asked.
"No, this is my first time. My dad has been here a couple of times though and he recommended this place. I wanted to try it out with you."
"I see. So, how did your celebrations went with your family?"
"It was amazing. I was totally emotional and crying and stuff. I even got to hug dad for the first time in years."
She tilted her head in confusion. "First time? You're not close to your dad?"
Seeing that how she was a girl, she wouldn't understand the world of men. I decided to explain in simple terms. "We men don't show much emotions and like to hide our true feelings. It is especially true between father and son. Only monumental accomplishments allow us to actually express our love to each other. Otherwise, we settle for 'I'm proud of you, my son.'."
"That's… deep. I don't understand it, but it's deep."
"The world of men is full of oddities. Like how we badmouth friend and foe alike, but for friends we don't actually mean it."
"Or the fact that you are so violent in nature, or the fact that all men can't speak the truth or-", she began listing odd things out so I stopped her.
"Yes, yes. That is our nature. Simple to understand for people who don't like to jump to conclusions."
"I take offense to that.", she said with a pout.
I held my hands up in a placating manner. "I get it, I get it."
"Anyway, any thing else happened?"
"Not really. We just ate dinner and made plans about the upcoming wedding."
"Ah! It's final then?"
"Yeah. Next month. And since mom would move in with us, Izuku and I are taking her apartment."
"That's totes awesome."
Interrupting our conversation, a waiter approached us with menus. "Good evening, sir and madam. Welcome to our humble establishment. I am Gonzo Gilmaine, owner of this here restaurant."
Oops. My mistake. Not a waiter, though he is dressed like one. He's a foreigner, though. "Good evening, Gonzo-san. Is there a special reason that the owner himself is greeting us?"
"Of course. You see, I am a fan of sports. And I have watched you dominate the entire competition from the get go. I just wanted to say congratulations.", he placed a hand on his chest and gave a slight bow.
"Thank you, Gonzo-san. Though, I don't know what was so amazing about me back there.", I rubbed the back of my neck.
"Reito-kun! You don't have to be so humble every time. Bask in the glory a little.", Tooru-chan chided me.
"Of course. Young miss is absolutely correct. Your efforts were quite admirable indeed.", Gonzo-san followed up.
"Thanks.", I gave him a smile, then I noticed something, "Say, Gonzo-san. I have a nagging feeling that I have seen you somewhere. Are you a retired foreign hero or something?"
"Heh, no. I am not. However, I was a member of Germany's Super-Human Task Force. I once came here for a joint mission to capture a fugitive villain. The battle must have made headlines here, huh. I'm retired now though."
"That's totes awesome. I had heard that Germany didn't have heroes. Instead they had super-human task force or something like that. Amazing stuff.", Tooru-chan interjected.
"Thank you for your kind words, young miss. I have taken up a lot of your time so I will make myself scarce. Feel free to call a waiter when you are ready to order.", with that he bowed and walked off.
"Cool guy.", I offhandedly said as I took my menu card and opened it up. A small slip of paper fell out. I picked it up off the table. It seems this guy was more than meets the eyes. Good thing Tooru-chan didn't notice it. I pocketed it silently before browsing the actual menu.
The rest of the date left me feeling like I was in heaven and talking to an angel. I was just soaking up her radiance and answering when she asked questions. Otherwise, only she was talking and I was listening. I hung onto her every word. Committed to memory her every graceful gesture. I laughed when she joked, even inserted some of my light-hearted jokes. A pleasant affair overall. I wasn't even suspicious as to why there were so many pleasant affairs in my life lately.
We ended our date once we saw people were starting to fill up the tables at around 8pm. After a lot of thinking and failing to coming up with better places, I had settled on a Love Hotel named Cherry Blossom. When Tooru-chan had seen this she was first shocked, then confused, then somewhat agitated.
"Is this the best you could come up with, Reito-kun?", she asked me dryly.
"At least you are surprised, right?", I gave her a shaky smile, to which she raised a fist threateningly, "Sorry.". She took a deep sigh. "L-let's forget about it. I will definitely think of a better place next time.", I turned around but was stopped when she softly grabbed my hand.
"I-it's alright. There's not much of a choice, is there?", she asked rhetorically while looking away in embarrassment.
"I don't want you to force yourself, so let's postpone it, alright?", I tried to take control of the situation. To be honest, with how this turned out, I was getting nervous as well.
"No. I want to. Let's go…", she spoke in such a low voice that it was barely audible.
I gulped when I took her hand and led her to the reception area. There a beautiful lady greeted us. "Sakazuki Reito." I gave her my name and she produced a room key from behind herself. Tooru-chan gave me a shocked stare but I ignored her as I led her to the elevator.
"Enjoy your stay.", the receptionist called out from behind us.
In the elevator, my girlfriend turned towards me with a heated glare. "You had a reservation here? And not only that, but you were also prepared to abandon mission just because you got cold feet?"
"Not necessarily. I was just worried about you. I knew this is a big step for us so I wanted it to go perfectly. Only, I wasn't sure you would like this place, but I prepared nonetheless.", I tried to placate her.
She calmed down after that, her gaze turning soft, "You did this all for me? Thank you.", she then proceeded to hug me. What's with the sudden moos swings? Is someone flicking a switch on her emotions?
I didn't complain any more and wrapped my arms around her waist in return. We separated and started waiting for our floor in silence.
We arrived at our floor and exited the elevator. At the end of one hallway was our room. I opened the door for her and stood to one side. She gave me a nervous but happy smile and went inside, I quickly followed her.
The room was nothing to scoff at. A small entrance-way led into a nice modern-styled bedroom with a large bed. Two bedside tables with a sleek seamless design were on either side of it. A large LED TV with home theater system was mounted on the wall opposite to it. There was only one large window in the room covered by closed blinds. The switch board next to the bed on the wall had many different settings to set the mood.
Tooru-chan was looking wide eyed at everything. Must be her first time seeing a love hotel's room. At least she seems satisfied with it. I wrapped my arms around her waist from behind and put my shin on her left shoulder.
"So, what do you think?", I asked with a smile.
"… I think it's totes awesome.", she replied with a kiss. It was an awkward position to be receiving a kiss with her head bent that way. I adjusted a little to make it comfortable for her.
This is going to be the best evening of my life, and possibly hers as well.
Hagakure Residence.
"Do you know what time she will be back?", Hanazawa stepped into the kitchen. His wife was currently preparing dinner for two, as she knew that her daughter won't be back until next morning at least. She was humming a sweet up beat tune and swaying her hips as if dancing. Hanazawa was enchanted by the scene in front of him. He couldn't help himself and hugged Miko from behind.
"She won't be back tonight, if you're asking.", she took a pause in her humming before continuing.
"I see… I can't believe my girl is all grown up.", he said in a distant manner.
"Of course, she has. It was inevitable. All we can do is support her in every way we can."
"You're right. But still, I feel like I wanna give her boyfriend a stern talking to."
"You will do no such thing. He is a sweet boy and I know he won't hurt our daughter in any way, shape or form", she turned around, still in his arms, and pointed a finger in a scolding manner.
Hanazawa just smiled and kissed her extended finger. "Whatever you say, honey."
"Well, the dinner is almost ready, Zawa-kun. I'll set the table in a moment.", she went back to her cooking.
Hanazawa took a deep sigh, "At least we are alone tonight. What say you if we find something fun to do together?"
"I like the sound of that. But it will have to wait 'till after dinner.", her voice was stern.
"Alright, alright.", finally her husband let go of her and went to sit at the table with an obviously fake pout. She couldn't help but smile at his childish behavior.
X-X
Sakazuki Residence.
"Where is that idiot!?", Haruna roared in her brother's face. They were currently having a meal along with Inko and Izuku. This has become a frequent thing. Either Midoryas would come her or Kahiko and Reito would go to them. Meals like these had become the norm. But currently they were missing a member, namely Reito. And that was grating on Haruna's nerves, for some unknown reason.
"Stop screaming in my face, you idiot!", he turned to his left where his sister was sitting. "I don't know where Reito is. I don't keep track of his whereabouts. He is a big boy and he can take care of himself."
"I know where he is.", came a timid voice. Everyone turned to Izuku, silently questioning him. "He is on a date with Tooru."
"When will he be back?", Haruna asked again.
"Tomorrow morning.", he replied with a sweet smile.
"What!?", this time Haruna screamed in Izuku's face, the boy didn't even flinch and kept smiling. "How do you know this?"
"He hinted towards it after the tournament. Tooru was also acting very suspicious. I guess they have some special plans for tonight.", the smile still didn't fade.
"What are you saying, Izuku?", Inko worriedly looked at her son.
"I'm just saying what I know, mom.", his smile was now seriously worrying her.
"Stop that, Izuku. Stop that creepy smiling. You're scaring your mom.", Kahiko slapped a the table space in front of the smiling boy.
"Oh, I'm sorry, mom.", he gave his trademark neck rub and an apologetic smile.
"Don't be that creepy ever again. It does not suit you.", Inko scolded him.
"Sorry…"
"Anyway, I will be welcoming that scumbag tomorrow. How dare he make such plans without consulting me first!", Haruna flexed her wrists.
"If it's any consolation, he consulted with me beforehand.", Inko meekly added.
"So, you have already stolen my place? Is that what you were planning from the beginning?", Haruna shouted at her.
"Calm down, you idiot! You were the one who pushed her into meeting me. Now you are shifting the blame on her.", Kahiko interjected.
'Well, this is a lively dinner. The whole family together, minus one. Such a great life we have.' Sato thought as he kept silently laughing in his head. He then looked at his giggling daughters and smiled, 'The decision to move in with Haruna was a good one. I don't regret it one bit.'
Cherry Blossom Hotel, Next morning.
It was a pleasant morning for me. I woke up to find Tooru-chan still wrapped around my chest. Her perky breasts were poking me in the sides. Her head was laid on my shoulder. With each breath, I felt a warm and tingly sensation. I wanted to turn towards her but our legs were tangled and she was holding mine in a vice gripe. I decided to lay there for while. Let her sleep in for today.
Internet served me well yesterday. All the techniques I had learned were successful with her. From a dolt, who didn't no any thing about sex, to a stud with incredible fingers, that's what the internet turned me into. There was also a large variety of kinks, but I am only interested in plain old romance. I might develop a fetish in the future, but right now, I am good with what I have.
A little while later, I felt motion at my right side. Tooru-chan was stirring. She stretched her arms and rubbed her eyes before finally looking at me. I gave her a smile. "Good morning, honey."
A blush adorned her features. She sunk her face in my chest in embarrassment. "Please, don't say that."
"Then what am I suppose to call the one I love?", I brushed a lock of her hair out of her face. My right arm that she was occupying was long enough to wrap itself around her waist, so I did. She wiggled a little more to get into a more comfortable position.
"Its just… embarrassing." she rebuked.
"I see. Talking about it and actually doing it is different. But you were pretty vocal when I was-"
"Shush!" Tooru-chan held her hand on my mouth. "You are totes tactless."
"Tell me something I don't know." I said while removing her hand and giving it a kiss.
Her blush deepened. She reluctantly removed herself from me. Sitting in a skewed position she rubbed her eyes again. Opening her eyes, she looked at me with an embarrassed smile. "Ready to head back?"
"I don't know. I was hoping we could go at it again." I honestly replied.
"No. I'm sore from last night. And you can still keep going?" she removed the blanket and stood up, seemingly forgetting that I can see her in all her naked glory.
"Strengthened chakra gives you wings."
"That's an old slogan you're quoting from a company that went bankrupt before the quirk era."
"Whatevs~", I said with a playful shrug. "By the way, you know I can see you, right?"
Her eyes went wide and immediately she tried to hide herself with her arms. When that didn't work, she yanked the blanket off of me to cover herself. That left her in another predicament, though. She had to bear witness to my bare form, with my dick at full mast. "OMG!" she yelled and turned around. "Stop looking at me!"
"Okay, okay." I did as she told me. I heard her shuffling to pick her clothing off the floor where they were scattered. I gave her a few minutes until she said, "I'm done."
Her ruffled hair, crinkled clothes and limping figure were so mesmerizing that I just lost myself in the view. She shuffled a little under my gaze. "What are you looking at? I know I'm not looking good right now."
"Quite the contrary. You look stunning." I unwittingly said. She blushed again.
"Get up already, you idiot…" she quietly answered.
I had to force my eyes off of her to get out of bed. I saw her glancing at my body repeatedly with red cheeks. I found my clothes quickly and put then on. We then collected our belongings. Then I suggested we should shower first. She nodded and went into the bathroom. I wanted to follow her, but decoded against it. 'I don't want to creep her away.' I thought.
When we both were done, we exited the building after checking out and went for a quick breakfast. We went for a cozy-looking cafeteria and ordered coffee and sandwiches.
"By the way, why did you drop out of the tournament, didn't you want to stand out?" I asked remembering she dropped out silently before the tournament.
"I do, but I got scared when you were knocked out. It was just a stupid obstacle course, albeit a few levels harder, but you were still hurt. I thought nothing fazed you, but then I saw you like that and just… I got cold feet."
I smiled at her and grabbed her hand. "I may act like nothing fazes me, but I am still human. Of course, I can forcefully calm myself or others using chakra but that does not mean the thoughts can go away, just like that. I do get scared, but not for myself. I was scared when you were taken by that purple mist guy at the USJ. I was scared when Izuku was trapped in that boat."
"I know, I just couldn't do it." her shoulders slumped and gaze shifted downwards.
I squeezed her hand again. "Its alright, deary. But next time you are scared, you come to me. I will either take away your fears or give you enough chakra to overpower them."
She smiled at me in response. It was so bright I couldn't keep my sensory chakra active. That told me she was truly happy. I was honestly thinking she will scold me for being condescending when I was genuinely concerned for her, like some psuedo-feminist, but, I guess everyone needs someone they can rely on. I'm no different.
"So, let's finish up and I will escort you to your house." I said while taking last few bite of my sandwich.
"Hmm." she happily sang.
Once we were done, we started walking to the nearest train station hand-in-hand. Tooru-chan was quietly humming to herself. The limp she was sporting was gone and she had a pep in her step. I was thankful that I didn't fuck-up our first time together with my ignorance or my "illiteracy in romantic arts" as an author preferred to call it. Still, it was amazing for our first night. I was on cloud nine the entire time. Internet taught me how its supposed to happen but no one ever told me just how good it would feel. As a former shut-in, I am genuinely amazed.
The train trip was pleasantly silent. Tooru-chan kept her head on my shoulder the entire way. Coming to her stop, I decided to escort her home, but she stopped me. "I don't think that's a good idea, right now."
"What do you mean?" I asked with curiosity.
"My dad would be home and seeing you will not make him happy."
"Oh…" a sudden epiphany, "Guess… I'll uh… be on my way from here."
"Yeah. I don't want dad to hurt you for 'defiling' his precious daughter." she said with a laugh.
"What can I do, though." I said aloud then whispered the second part in her ear, "His daughter really loved to be 'defiled' by me."
She went bright red at that and slapped my shoulder. "Shut up, stupid!" she hissed.
Saying out goodbyes and exchanging a parting kiss, I went back into the train, since it was on the route I needed to go in. I waved at her standing at the doorway… right before I was shoved inside by a group of people barging their way inside the train in a hurry. My mistake, shouldn't stand in the doorway and block people.
I found a seat and looked out the window. Tooru-chan was still there waving at me. I waved back before she turned and starting walking away. The train started and I was on my way home.
Sakazuki Residence.
"Hey, Reito. How'd it go?" dad asked immediately as I got into the living room.
"How did what go?" I answered with a question. I don't know what he is talking about.
"Don't play coy with me, you cheeky bastard." he had a shit eating grin, I was kind of getting creeped out.
"I really don't know what you are talking about."
"Oh, really?"
"Yes, really."
"Well in that case, you should prepare yourself. Sister is brimming with curiosity."
The gears in my mind turned and I realized something. "Did Izuku snitch?"
"Heh. You shouldn't throw your friends under the bus like that, he's taking his sweet revenge."
"Yeah, yeah. I wish I had gone back to Tooru-chan's house. At least her dad would be a better conversation partner, despite his anger at me for being with his daughter."
"Damn, son. Glad you've found someone for yourself."
"Thanks. But I don't wanna talk about it right now. I'll just go lock myself in my room."
"Alrigh-" dad wanted to say something but he was cut off by a scream.
"REITTTOOO!" came auntie's bellowing voice.
"Bye!" I quickly bid him and ran to my room. Just as I was about to enter, auntie appeared in the hallway. Immediately I went inside and locked my door to save myself from this demon. She kept banging and yelling outside and I did my best to ignore her. Plopping on the bed, I covered my head with a pillow and hid like a little bitch. Her questions would be rapid fire, she will want to learn everything that happened, get shocked and yell at me after I utter each and every sentence and be an overall pain in the ass to deal with. I hope Tooru-chan is faring better…
Hagakure Residence.
"And where do you think you are going, young lady?" Hanazawa spoke from the kitchen after waiting for his daughter all morning. Tooru paused in her step and swirled around to try and dispel the situation.
"Hey, dad! How are you?" she blurted the first thing that came to mind.
"Is that all you have to say for yourself after not coming home the whole night?" Hanazawa doubled down in his efforts to stay on track.
"Well… you see…" she tried to explain bu was cut off.
"And where is your boyfriend? I want to have a serious talk with him." he said with a very forced smile.
"Hey, dad. You are scaring me." a fake hurt expression was adorned on her face.
"Oh. I'm sorry dear. I promise I will just talk to him." the forced smile still didn't go away.
"That!" she pointed a finger at him defensively, "That is exactly why I sent him away from the station!"
"Come on. Don't you trust your dad at all?" still with a forced smile.
"Not right now, I don't. You're totes creepy right now."
"Zawa-kun…" came a deceptively calm and cold voice from her parents' bedroom. Her dad immediately calmed down and adorned a troubled smile. "What did I tell you a little while ago?"
He kept silent.
"Stop bothering our daughter. She can make her own choices." Miko came out of the bedroom to stare Hanazawa down.
With a quick "Thanks, mom!" Tooru took flight to her room upstairs. In the living room, Miko kept her frigid stare on her husband. After a few moments, she sighed, "Look. I know you are protective of her, but you need to let her grow. She can't stay your adorable little daughter for long."
Hanazawa deflated visibly and shook his head, "I know that. It's just… hard to accept. I know that boy is trustworthy enough, I mean, he came to meet us, her parents, if he was some pantie-chaser he wouldn't have done that. But, my instincts told me to do what I did."
Miko stepped closer to her husband and placed a hand on his cheek. "Don't worry. Our little girl is not naive and she is definitely not an idiot. She wouldn't have gone out with him if he was some asshole. If you find it hard to trust him, then trust our daughter." she gave him a chaste kiss.
At that, Hanazawa became much more calmer than before. He gazed into Miko's eyes lovingly, "You always know what words would mellow me out. That, or your kisses are magical."
She giggled at the cheesy compliment. They separated and went about their business. Hanazawa put on his coat to go meet his client for therapy, for which he was being late for and Miko went to the bedroom to finish her makeup routine, which was rudely interrupted.
Up in her room, Tooru pulled out her phone and texted Reito.
T: Hey. How'd it go on your end?
A few seconds later came his reply.
R: Hellish. Dad was cool about it, but my auntie was all up in my business.
T: On my end, it was fairly tame. :P
R: Your dad knew?
T: Mom must have told him. I totes glad I sent you away. He was PISSED OFF! Majorly!
R: Thanks for looking out for me. Have I ever told you that I love you?
T: You might have~ but I don't mind hearing it again… and again… and again…
It took a few seconds longer for Reito to reply again.
R: I love you! I love you! I love you! 3
R: Sorry I took so long to reply. I don't know how these emojis work.
T: Heehee. You're totes old fashioned~
R: Well, I never had a need to text anyone before, so that should explain it.
T: Really!? Aw you're totes adorbs!
R: I don't know what that last word means.
T: Dude! Its short for adorable! OMG!
R: Ah. I see.
R: Well, I can't wait for the offers we will accumulate. It will decide the president of our class, after all.
T: omg yes! I forgot about it!
T: Who do you think will have the most amount of offers?
R: I don't think I was that impressive so it will either be Shoto or Izuku.
T: Makes sense. But why not you?
R: Well, to be honest, I didn't want to be the president. Too much work.
T: Hehe. But you got stuck to the job, huh?
R: Right. I gave that offer so that I can get out of it. Still there is a chance I can come second and still be stuck with this job. In that case I will take it and bear with it.
T: Reito-kun, the texts are supposed to be short and sweet.
R: Oh. I guess no one wants to read through essays in a normal convo.
T: Look at you, using shortened words.
R: I am getting the hang of texting.
T: You'll get there.
T: Still I can't believe you don't even know how to text.
R: As I have told you before, I was a shut-in for most of my life. No friends, no enemies, barely had time for family.
T: Yeah…
T: Hey! I got an Idea!
R: Tell me, please!
T: Hows about me and my family come over to your house?
R: I thought we were talking about me getting over my social awkwardness, not me getting buried in the ground.
T: It IS about you, though.
R: I don't see what will stop your dad from ambushing in the streets before he leaves.
T: It'll be fine.
R: I'll trust you.
R: Hey! My father and Izuku's mom's wedding is coming up this month. How's that for a get together?
T: OMG, YESS! That'd be perfect!
R: It's decided then.
T: Yup!
R: Right. I'll see you monday, then.
T: I wanted to talk more. But I guess w can do that later.
R: Yeah. We can talk all day. Ain't no way I'm not talking to you regularly.
T: Hehe. Okay, lover boy. ttyl.
R: What does that mean?
She decided to not answer him.
R: Hey, tell me what "ttyl" means?
She giggled seeing him stupefied with such a simple abbreviation. She decided head back down to see if the situation has deescalated.
Class 1-A, UA.
"Alright class. This is the result from the accumulated offers from the Sports Festival." Aizawa-sensei said as the class's projector turned on and showed a screen on the white board.
It was a list of two columns. First one contained names and the second one contained the number of offers. Topping the list was Shoto. He had more than two thousand offers. Second entry had me deflated, but I had called it so I wasn't that surprised by it. It was me on the second place. Meaning I will continue my duties as they were.
"Ha ha ha." I gave a mirthless laugh. The class was giggling at my expense. Third place was Izuku, predictably. Fourth and fifth were Tokoyami and Bakugo, respectively. I turned to Tooru-chan, and she was covering her mouth with her hand, seemingly laughing silently. I gave her a shrug as if to say, 'what can you do about it.'
Turning back to Aizawa-sensei, I heard him say something about "Hero Names", and immediately after, the class's door slammed open to reveal Midnight. All the boys, and even a few girls, were smitten… other than me, of course. For some reason, her charm wasn't working on me. I get that she is hot or whatever, but I can't seem to fathom why I should care, unless she personally escorts me to her home and suck me dry. I just don't get lusting after something you'll never get or won't hit, whatever is the case. Money is something to lust after, though. So is authority. Or maybe some other concepts, objects and people.
I was now lost in my thoughts when I heard a seductive whisper in my right ear. "Having dirty thoughts, are we~" Her tone was melodious and would've made any lesser man weak in the knees, but not me.
I retorted. Harshly. "You're way too confident for a woman in her 40s." Alright… I admit it was a terrible decision, because just as soon as I had uttered those words, her eyes turned cold, and her hand, which was hovering over my left shoulder and I didn't even notice, gripped me tightly.
"I dare you to say one more word." her face came even closer to my own.
Now, I could hear the rest of the class telling me to keep quiet, but I wanted to risk it some more. "When you clap someone, be ready to be clapped back." In the background, I heard someone say "What the hell kind of analogy is that!?" in low whisper.
Midnight, however, seemed out right amused. I was hoping she would give me harsh punishment or something, but shockingly, she was chill. Even her chakra was chill. "You've got guts, kid. I love it!" she then straightened up and placed her hands on both of her cheeks. "Ooh~ that makes me so horny~"
I cringed at the way she expressed her feelings. Again, someone in the background said, "Damn lucky bastard!". I noted in mind to give Denki a severe talking to for that comment. "Please, keep your sexual frustration away from me."
"Ooh~ I love this kid! Marry me!" she was up in my face again. To dissolve the situation I slowly moved away from her and into the desk next to me, which was occupied by Tsu. I nudged her and she gave me space enough to sit at the edge of her chair. "Aww! Where did that tongue go? I wanted to us that tongue tonight."
"The class is being disturbed. Please, for the love of all that's holy, get on with this Hero Names business." I pleaded. Humming in a sing song voice she skipped her way to the front. I stood up from Tsu's chair, apologized for troubling her, which she waved off, and went back to my desk.
"As I was saying before I was distracted by the… delicious-looking little man. These names will reflect your careers and the paths you will take. Choose your names carefully. There is a chance the name you come up with will remain stuck to you due to public demand." like flicking a switch, she instantly became professional. It led me to believe she's not a sexual deviant she portrays herself to be.
After that, we were handed miniature whiteboards and black markers. I hadn't thought of my name for the career. The class started chatting. Tooru-chan came up to me for my input on her name. "Honestly, I haven't even thought of my own hero name."
"Then how about something related to my quirk? Like… Invisible Girl?"
"That's taken."
"Then 'Invisi-girl'?"
"Better, but still the same problem."
"Then… how about 'Chameleon'?"
"You're way to cute for that."
"Aww, thanks."
"Forget that. How about something related to your dreams and goals? Or something that represents you or your personality?"
"Hmm…" she struck a cut thinking pose. "Notice Me…?"
"You would be very popular among the introverts of the society."
"Haah… Whatever. You give me suggestions."
"Refracto." a shake of the head. "Shine?" another shake. "Hidden?"
"Close, but not my style."
"You are literally hidden from the sight and take as much advantage of that as you can."
"Yeah, but no."
"Ambusher?" shake. "Fatal Sight?"
"I'm not a murderer."
"Treasure?" another shake, "This is getting old. 'Lens'?" a shak- she gave it some thought, then happily nodded.
"Yes! Yes! I love it!" she gave me a peck on the cheek and wrote something on her board.
On the lectern (or teacher's desk, whatever it's called), was Aoyama with his whiteboard clutched to his chest.
"Shiny Hero: I Can Not Stop Twinkling!" he declared aloud. Midnight got close to him and gently took his board.
"Hmm… I like it. But its too long. If you can just shorten it to be like this…" she rubbed something off and wrote something down. "… There!" she handed the board back to Aoyama.
He giddily took it and turned it around after reading it once. "Shiny Hero: Can't Stop Twinkling!" he declared again.
I was amazed at what could be accepted. But everyone has their niches. Next went Mina with her Hero Name being "Alien Queen", which was quickly shot down by Midnight on the ground of being creepy.
Tooru-chan went next. "Refraction Hero: Lens!" she declared. Her name was met with clapping on par with what Aoyama got after his name was corrected. I liked it. Of course, it was I who came up with it, but no, I liked it because of how well it suits her cuteness.
She skipped over to me. "Now that you have suggested my hero name, how about I suggest yours?"
I gave her a shrug. "Go ahead."
"Right. So, how about 'Bone-head'?" I gave her a stare, "Sorry, sorry. I was just joking. So, 'Windman'?" I shook my head, "Silver-tongue?"
"Why that? It sounds sleazy and perverted."
"Probably because Midnight-sensei praised your tongue. And I know from experience how well you can use it~" she whispered the last part in my ear.
I was amazed that she was being this direct. But, I had a feeling this was just a facade. So, to get back at her, I wrote that exact name down and stood up.
"NO!" she yelled, immediately grabbing my sleeve. Her yell attracted everyone's attention. She became sheepish, "Nothing to see here… haha." she turned to me, "Please don't show that to anyone."
With that little bluff, her facade crumbled. But I wanted to mess with Midnight-sensei as well, so I placed my hand on hers to give her reassurance. She didn't get why I was doing it for, though. Regardless, I softly yanked myself away and walked to the lectern and placed the whiteboard facing the class.
Midnight-sensei immediately got what I meant. "Ooh~ I love it!"
"Thanks, my girlfriend chose it for me."
"Oh my, satisfying girls at this young age? I'm jealous, you know?" she licked her lips before switching to professional mode, "Are you sure you want this Hero Name?"
"No. Actually, I wrote it down and showed you just to tease her. I have no intention of going with this obviously perverted and sleazy Hero Name."
"Good call. I wouldn't want you to get kidnapped for fun~" her perverseness came back.
I excused myself and went back to my desk, where a heavily blushing Tooru-chan was surrounded by other girls and being teased and prodded for information. 'Women.' I wryly thought to myself. I stepped up and started shooing the girls off. "Alright, shows over. Don't crowd my Tooru-chan."
"I will not rest until you tell me everything, Tooru-chan." Mina promised her before going back.
"Pathetic." came a silent hiss from Katsuki, which I ignored.
Placing myself on half of the seat, I wrapped my arm around her shoulder. "I'm sorry. I just wanted to poke fun at Midnight-sensei."
"You idiot!" she exclaimed in a whisper and elbowed me in the guts. It hurt.
"Again, I'm sorry. But it was too much of a golden opportunity to pass up."
"I'll get even, one way or another." she promised, "Anyways, back to your Hero Name."
"Yes, Miss Tooru."
"Teehee. So, how about 'Meditation'?" I shook my head, "Awesome?" no, "Hmm… 'Monk'?" no, "Ninja?"
"Let's just use words related to ninjas."
"Okie Dokie. So, 'Assassin'?" no, "Poison Master?"
"I don't even know how to make poison."
"Myriad?" no, "Agile?" no, "Chakra?" no, "Hmm… 'Storm'?"
"Close."
"Maelstrom?"
"Taken."
"Thunderstorm?"
"Taken as well."
"Its totes difficult. 'Chakra Storm'?"
"Like it, but not relatable."
"Hmm… 'Fire Tempest'?"
"Fire is not the only element I control."
"'Chakra Tempest' then?"
"I like it. If not, I can just take a popularity poll or something and make the people pick one for me afterwards."
"I guess that's an option."
Just as I wrote down my Hero Name, I saw Izuku pull up to the lectern. He slowly turned his whiteboard to us. The class didn't like his name for some reason. I saw a hilarious comeback against a childhood bully. "Deku! That's my hero name. It means 'someone who can't do anything' but I will change that meaning to 'someone who can do anything'!"
The class still wasn't sure what he meant by that. I looked into my brother's eyes and he gave me permission, so I decided to clarify. "Great one, Izuku! That name is like a slap in the face for some people, eh, Katsuki?"
The already fuming dynamite stick exploded at me, figuratively. "Shut the fuck up, you loser!"
I poured petrol into the fire, "That's funny, cause from what I remember, it was you who had his face in the grass and burned to a crisp."
Before he actually did explode, Midnight-sensei came in between us. "Calm down, you two. You're disturbing the class. Reito, this is not the behavior a class president should show."
I bowed in apology to her and retook my seat. Katsuki had a hard time accepting the order but obeyed nonetheless. Izuku's Hero Name was noted down. Afterwards, everyone came up and presented their names. All of them were accepted, except for Katsuki, who didn't quite get 'murder' has not place in a hero's name. I would have used 'murder' in a more creative way to get it approved at least. He didn't even try that in all three of his attempts. Only two students used their own names: Iida and Shoto. They had their reasons, we didn't judge.
Now came my turn to showcase the name I cam up with. The class just clapped for me. Nothing special with my name. Afterwards, Midnight-sensei left and Aizawa-sensei took over. "Alright, class. Those of you that didn't get an offer will also be interning with someone we recommend. None of you will be left out. Secondly, with the threat of this new 'League of Villains' we advise you to remain cautious and always find someway to inform your seniors before engaging. Tomorrow you guys will depart for your respective agencies. If there are no questions, then that'll be all."
Though he said something that suggest he would take questions, he didn't, and just left the class before anyone could speak up. With an hour before the school would be out, the class started chatting. I was surrounded by many, who were asking where I will go. Since our schedule was so tight, I had to choose today and submit it, but I was still undecided. Tooru-chan started listing off her top contenders from the list she received from Aizawa-sensei for students who didn't get any offer and presented them to me. "I don't know what you are aiming for, so I can't choose anything for you, Tooru-chan." I told her.
"But, I learned it online that couples should choose for each other. That's the next goal in any relationship." she retorted with a cute pout.
"Yes, that may be true, but only for couples that are going steady for months, or even years. We just started dating not long ago."
"Then how about this: I want to shine bright, grab attention everywhere I go, be decent at hand-to-hand combat and be a master in espionage. Based on that, which agency works for me?"
"You are really asking the wrong guy. I don't have much knowledge about modern day Heroes."
"Mo~ Fine, then. I'll ask Izuku." she stood up from my seat and walked over to my brother, who was packing up for the day to go home with Ochako waiting for him.
"That's a good idea. Ask a Hero and Quirk nerd to suggest some thing Hero related." I agreed and followed after her. She presented her predicament to him. He thought about it, then answered.
"Gunhead's agency is pretty good but not too showy. Ochako-chan is going to intern there for martial arts." Ochako gave a nod. "Ryuzu's agency is much more connected to showcasing talent and being bad ass, but that might not suit you. There is a Hero by the name of Solar Cell who operates in Kyoto, though. Her quirk is to absorb sunlight and shoot a Solar Flare with varying intensity. That could compliment your refraction powers well. Her agency only has two members and she is listed in the document you have there."
Though, that was a long winded explanation, Tooru-chan absorbed it all like a sponge. I was impressed with his knowledge and critical thinking. "I knew I could count on you, Izuku, you cutie!" Tooru-chan accentuated by pinching his cheeks.
"Uhh… Tooru-chan, you realize he's mine right?" Ochako interjected with a sweet, yet daring, smile.
"Oh, yes. Sorry. I just couldn't help but admire his sharp mind, unlike a certain someone who needs everything to be spelled out to him." my girlfriend roll her eyes at me. I didn't acknowledge that taunt and asked Izuku which one he chose.
"To be honest, I'm not sure. I never imagined so many people will want me as their sidekick. I'll ask All Might's advice. Where are you going to go?"
"I'm in the same boat as you. But I was thinking, maybe one of the underground Hero agency that works behind the scenes. That way, I can learn a lot more than heroes who have to appear on a press conference every damn time they do something."
"You're not going to be kicking asses and taking names?" Tooru-chan asked, interrupting us.
"I'm a jack of all trades, master of none. It would be too much work for me to shine among the stars, so I will hide among the shadows."
"That's creepy." Ochako added with Tooru-chan nodding in agreement.
"Then you should go to Silent's agency or Dying Light agency. Both of them are known for their ninja type quirk-users and information brokering. And they are the only two agencies affiliated with the government in the underground Hero network. Aizawa-sensei used to be a part of Dying Light before he went solo." Izuku pointed out.
"Holy hell. Where do you get that type of info?" I exclaimed, surprised.
"Oh, you know. There are not-so-well-known forums on the internet where people talk about the obscure heroes and such. Funnily enough, that site is the only place you can read up on the various underground heroes who don't show up publicly."
"Amazing." both girls said at the same time.
Right on time, the bell rang, signaling the end of today's classes. I decided to make an announcement. I went up to the Teacher's desk and clapped my hands.
"Listen up, everybody!" everyone turned to me, "As all of you know, our internship will start tomorrow. That means, you have to choose an agency today, at all costs. But you shouldn't hurry. If you have to talk to your family, you can do so, but make sure to send your choice to the group chat before 9pm. I will compile them and forward them to Aizawa-sensei. Tomorrow we will meet here and arrangements will be done for your travels and handed to you. You will receive your tickets and be on your way."
The class murmured in understanding. I continued, "Furthermore, this is a great opportunity for us to get first-hand experience in the real-world fighting crimes. Don't let down your seniors and don't overstep your boundaries. And most important of all, have fun. That's all."
"How come you know so much about it?" Sero asked with curiosity.
"Aizawa-sensei considers me his personal assistant, so he tells me about upcoming events beforehand so I can take the questions in his stead."
"That's lazy of him." Mina laughed.
"What can we do?" I shrugged, "Alright, everyone. Give careful thoughts as to where you want to intern and be sure to tell me your choice before 9." I stepped off the small platform.
After that, Tooru-chan, Izuku, Ochako and I began walking down the hallway… before being ambushed by All Might in an awkward position.
"I am here… in an awkward position!" came his bold voice. "Young Midorya, can I talk to you in private?"
Izuku looked at us and then back at the hulking figure, "You guys go ahead, I'll catch up."
We heeded and went on our way. "Why do you think All Might wanted to talk to Izuku?" Ochako was worried.
"Must be because of the upcoming internship. Since his and Izuku's quirk are similar in a way, and Izuku seems to be hurting himself whenever he used his quirk, he might have found a good hero who can help him with that. Izuku had talked to All Might about this particular weakness."
"But he was fine during the festival, though." Tooru-chan added.
"That's because I have been giving him some tips on training his chakra control."
"He can use chakra as well?"
"No, I can control his chakra to give him a feel of how much power he should output. And I have him stuck at 7% with bursts up to 20% output."
"His palm final palm thrust against Shoto-kun was at 20%?" Ochako was surprised by this new info.
"More like 15%, give or take."
"He wasn't even fighting at full power!?" this time Tooru-chan shrieked.
"Oh, no. Both Ochako and I have witnessed his full power in the entrance exams. Remember the Zero-pointer that came out of the left field? It was toast with just a single punch."
"No way…"
Ochako took over for me there, "Yes. And it was so amazing! I had never seen anything like it before. Even All Might's videos aren't that awesome. And-"
"That's because All Might's major fights happen spontaneously and barely even recorded."
Not taking offense at my interruption, Ochako turned to me, "Like the one where that sludge villain appeared and All Might changed the weather with a single punch?"
"That is just a taste of the awesome power All Might commands. And if we are comparing Izuku to him, I'd say Izuku would be even more powerful than the number one hero."
"Wow! That's totes awesome! Hey, Ochako. Wanna trade boyfriends?" Tooru-chan playfully added.
"I'm happy with Izuku, thank you very much."
"Hey, Guys! Wait up!" came Izuku's voice from behind us. We paused at the main gates to let him catch up to us. "Sorry to keep you guys waiting."
"Don't worry, buddy. We kept ourselves entertained by talking about how awesome you are."
"Uh, okay…?"
"Forget that. What did you talk to All Might about?" Ochako interrupted us with burning curiosity.
"Uh… nothing, he just suggested me an agency, one where his mentor used to work at."
"That's amazing! You will be taught by someone famous, aren't you?"
"Um, I wouldn't say famous. The Hero's name is Gran Torino and he's an old guy."
"That's not the only member of that agency, right?"
"Nope, he's the only one."
"Doesn't that sound shady?"
I decided to help him out. Since I had a doubt this was All Might's personal teacher we were talking about. "It'll be fine. The guy is an old man who apparently used to work with All Might's mentor and the man himself recommended him."
"I see."
"We'll see in one week's time. Until then, we just have to do our best."
All of them agreed with me. After that, we walked out the UA and towards the train station where we parted ways. Tomorrow was a new chapter in all our lives and it may even decide our future.