The night clung to Izuku like an old, unwanted coat as the moon played hide and seek behind heavy clouds. He stepped out of the sleek black car that shimmered like a shadow come to life. Katsuki was beside him, his suit all rage and night - sharp in reds and blacks. Izuku's own attire whispered of shadows and whispers, with dark green and muted tones wrapping around his imposing figure.
The manor stood like an uninvited memory, cold and distant. Flickering lanterns illuminated the manor with gleaming modern architecture, glass, and steel. The enormous walls whispered echoes of the past, entwined with secrets he wished had stayed buried. Izuku's gaze bore the disdain of ages; his eyes were like twin storm clouds, heavy with suppressed fury.
"Back here again…" his voice was a chill wind through a graveyard.
Katsuki locked his gaze on him, equal parts steel and smoldering fire. "Stay focused. We know what we're here to do," he commanded, his voice grating like a growl through gravel.
They moved, shadows inching closer to a past Izuku wished he could shred apart. Katsuki's arm entwined around him, a bond both fake and more real than the surrounding night. He barely acknowledged it; the mask of indifference couldn't falter now.
Kaina was a specter in a black dress that seemed to drink in the light. Her practiced smile, a ghost of genuine warmth in her eyes. "Izuku, Katsuki, it's good to see you."
Izuku felt his heart thud like a drumbeat to a dirge. He was almost surprised it was still there. "Where is Eri?" His words were sharp shards of ice.
A brief flicker crossed Kaina's face before she replied, "She's safe inside. Ochako and Iida will join you for dinner."
The air around Izuku seemed to freeze, a cold front moving in around him. His eyes were twin blades. "Kaina, make sure you watch Eri closely."
She nodded, and as they continued towards the entrance, Izuku felt Katsuki close to him. There was a kinship, a strange comfort in the presence of someone as fiercely driven as he was. Someone who didn't shy away from the fires within.
Izuku felt the shadows of the manor reaching for him. The large doors loomed, a gate to a chapter he'd tried to close. His hand, for the briefest moment, formed a fist, a talisman against the ghosts beckoning him inside. Control, that elusive creature, slithered back into his grip as his face settled back into a mask.
Stepping into the hallway felt like diving into a heavy sea. Izuku felt the atmosphere all around him, the unmistakable sensation of shining steel and a sterile smell. The walls rose around him, adorned with modern art, their sharp angles gleaming ominously under the pallid light. The scent of fresh lacquer and chemicals clung to the air, a nauseating perfume of pretense and deception. Shadows danced, their silent waltz punctuated by the flicker of dim bulbs above.
Katsuki's arm slithered around Izuku's waist, his grip steady, an anchor amidst the growing storm. He leaned into Izuku, his body radiating a warmth that was at odds with their cold surroundings. His closeness was an illusion of safety, a part of their role, yet a comfort Izuku begrudgingly admitted he needed.
"We must be vigilant and remember the roles we need to play here," Izuku whispered, his voice barely cutting through the stifling air.
Katsuki's nod was almost imperceptible, his agreement silent as he pressed his lips against Izuku's temple. The touch was a challenge and a promise, a claim cloaked in the pretense of their charade.
Like a wraith, Toga appeared from around the corner. Her eyes glowed with mischievous delight as they found Izuku, her red lips curling into a sly grin. "Izuku, darling, how I've missed you," she purred, her words slithering through the tense air.
She stepped into Izuku's personal space, her lips a ghost's breath away from his cheek. Izuku felt Katsuki's body stiffen beside him, a feral growl rippling under his skin.
"Back off!" Katsuki's command was a lash, sharp and unyielding. His hand moved, a blur as he shoved Toga away. His eyes were ablaze, a tempest barely held at bay.
Toga moved with the grace of a feline, her smile a gash of white in the dim light. "Oh, this one is feisty, Izuku. I like him." Her eyes twinkled with malicious delight as she watched Katsuki's arm tighten around Izuku's waist.
"Toga, don't push your luck." Izuku's voice was a whip-crack in the silence, his threat hanging in the air.
Toga merely grinned, her laughter trailing behind her as she sauntered off down the corridor. The melody she hummed was an ominous dirge that left a bitter taste in Izuku's mouth.
A shared glance passed between Izuku and Katsuki. A promise of solidarity, a vow to remain vigilant. They lined their path toward the dining room with shadows and whispers, a gauntlet they were determined to endure. They walked on, two figures ensnared in a dangerous dance they couldn't afford to lose.
As Izuku and Katsuki approached the entrance to the dining room, the grand double doors swung open, revealing a lavishly decorated space.
The soft glow of crystal chandeliers cast a warm light, illuminating the opulent surroundings. As moved further in, Izuku's nose caught the fragrance of cedar wood and the tantalizing scent of gourmet delicacies. Izuku's senses heightened, taking in every detail as he prepared himself for the encounter ahead.
In the doorway stood Tomura, his presence commanding attention. Impeccably dressed, he exuded an aura of power and authority that sent a shiver down Izuku's spine. His cold, calculating eyes bore into Izuku, their intensity unyielding. The weight of the situation settled heavily on Izuku's shoulders as he steeled himself for what lay ahead.
Tomura's voice, laced with dark amusement, reached Izuku's ears. "Izuku, it's been far too long," he said, his tone carrying an underlying menace. Izuku's expression remained stoic, a mask of resolve concealing the torrent of emotions within.
Katsuki, fully immersed in his role, leaned against Izuku, his head resting on Izuku's shoulder. The closeness between them served as both a facade and a reminder of their complex connection. His gaze fixated on Tomura, a possessive glare that spoke volumes, a silent challenge daring anyone to question their bond. The rough edge in Katsuki's voice added an extra layer of tension to the room, his tone laced with an unyielding determination.
Tomura's attention shifted to Katsuki, his lips curling into a twisted smile that sent a shiver down Izuku's spine. The atmosphere crackled with palpable energy, the clash between these formidable personalities impending. Izuku's senses heightened, his focus sharpened, as he prepared for the confrontation that loomed before them.
"Ah, your new companion," Tomura mused, his disdain oozing from every word, his voice dripping with venomous implications. "Quite spirited, unlike the last one." Mentioning Izuku's prior partner made the room tense.
Izuku straightened his posture, a flicker of determination gleaming in his eyes as he took charge of the moment. His voice held an air of authority as he formally introduced Katsuki to Tomura. "Tomura, meet Katsuki Bakugo," he said, the words ringing with a sense of defiance. "He is my partner in every sense of the word."
Katsuki's gaze bore into Tomura's, a fiery intensity that mirrored Izuku's unwavering resolve. He added, his voice laced with a touch of defiance, "Yeah, that's right. So keep that girl of yours on a tight leash."
Tomura's lips curled into a sinister smile, his amusement thinly veiling his true intentions. "Ah, I will talk to Toga after tonight," he remarked, his voice dripping with mockery. "Such an intriguing dynamic."
Izuku's brow furrowed slightly, his voice taking on a tone of controlled skepticism. "Cut the theatrics, Tomura. What is all this about?"
Tomura's smirk widened, a twisted glint in his eyes. "Let's eat first while we go over the details of what I'm planning."
With a beckoning gesture, Tomura led the way into the dining room, and Izuku followed, his senses keenly attuned to their surroundings. As they walked, his eyes scanned the room, searching for any familiar faces or hidden clues that could aid their mission. Each corner held the potential for discovery, the weight of their investigation pressing upon him.
Katsuki remained a steadfast presence at Izuku's side, their act of lovers intact. But beneath the surface, his unwavering gaze remained fixed on Tomura, a silent challenge that spoke volumes.
Taking their seats at the elegant table, Izuku maintained his composure, his disdain for Tomura and the Manor barely contained. His gaze betrayed a mix of skepticism and concern, a glimpse into the maelstrom of emotions churning within him. The shadows were no match for their determination.
As the dinner progressed, the opulence of the dining room became almost suffocating. They draped towering windows in heavy curtains, casting a sense of foreboding. Above the table, a massive chandelier hung, its crystals glistening and casting eerie shadows that danced across the room.
Seated side by side, Izuku and Katsuki found themselves among a select few. Tomura occupied the head of the table, his presence dominating the space. On either side of him sat Ochako and Iida, their expressions a mix of concern and unwavering determination.
Waitstaff moved with a sense of grim efficiency, serving an elaborate meal on the fine china before them. The clinking of silverware and glasses filled the room, creating a haunting soundtrack to the strained conversation.
Tomura raised his glass, a glint of malice in his eyes, and made a toast. "To old friends and new beginnings," he declared, his words dripping with hidden meaning. The glasses clinked, but Izuku's touch was minimal, almost reluctant, a subtle resistance to the facade.
Katsuki stayed close to Izuku, his touch a sign of support, despite the turmoil. The act of an infatuated lover continued, their secret partnership hidden beneath the surface.
"I plan to reestablish the Charity Ball as the official announcement that I will take over the organization with father's approval." Tomura said.
Tomura delved into the revival of the Charity Ball, and his plans for the grand event. His words carried a mix of ambition and a thirst for power. The air grew heavy with the weight of his intentions.
Izuku, stoic as ever, interjected with a hint of skepticism, his voice cutting through the tension. "And where does my role lie in these plans?" he questioned, his words laced with an undercurrent of defiance.
Tomura smirked, his gaze locked onto Izuku's. "By my side, of course," he replied, his tone smug. "I want to showcase you as my fighter. If everyone sees you by my side, there would be little opposition to my ascension."
Tomura talked of taking back control, while Izuku spoke cautiously, his dislike of Tomura and the group clear.
Underneath the table, Katsuki's hand rested on Izuku's thigh, a grounding force amidst the turmoil. Ochako and Iida listened quietly, concerned but unwavering in their support of Izuku.
At one point, Tomura made a veiled threat regarding Katsuki's recent proximity to uncovering unsavory truths.
"I heard your partner is still unconscious. It was an unfortunate event, but I hope you understand the necessity of keeping our existence under wraps." Tomura said.
Izuku's eyes narrowed, his voice calm yet sharp. "Katsuki is well aware of the implications. He won't be continuing with his case," he asserted, his words carrying a veiled warning.
Katsuki felt tense against his side, anger brewing just under the surface. Izuku spoke to keep Katsuki's anger in check. Tomura's eyes gave away his amusement as he lifted his glass to his mouth, covering the amused tilt to his lip.
"That's good. Now that we have settled that, we can continue with our plans."
As the dinner neared its end, Tomura put down his silverware and fixed his gaze on Katsuki, his eyes filled with a sinister calm. "I expect nothing less than complete loyalty from those who associate with us," he stated, his voice carrying a chilling edge.
Katsuki's eyes hardened, his arm wrapped firmly around Izuku, a silent promise of unwavering support. The weight of Tomura's expectations hung in the air, a palpable pressure.
Then Tomura turned his attention to Izuku, his gaze piercing. "And you, Izuku, I expect no less," he stated, his voice dripping with a mix of arrogance and authority. "You are to be the public face by my side."
Izuku's voice turned bitter, his resolve shining through his words. "If it keeps everyone safe, I will do it," Izuku replied, his voice devoid of warmth. The sacrifices he will make for the sake of their mission weighed heavily on him.
A twisted smile played upon Tomura's lips as he made a surprising demand. "I also want Katsuki to resign from his position with the force," he declared, his eyes never leaving Izuku's.
Izuku's and Katsuki's bodies stiffened simultaneously, the air around them growing taut with tension. Izuku's voice turned sharp, cutting through the silence. "Katsuki is more valuable within the force," he retorted, his words a direct challenge to Tomura's authority.
Tomura's laughter filled the room, a chilling sound that sent shivers down their spines. "I have enough eyes there," he replied, his tone dripping with mockery. "This is a test of loyalty. I want to see how far he's willing to go for you, and for me."
Katsuki's gaze flickered between Izuku and Tomura, his expression grave. After a moment of silence, he finally spoke, his voice laced with determination. "Fine. I'll resign. But I do it for him, not for you," he declared, his loyalty unwavering.
Tomura seemed satisfied with Katsuki's response, his smile twisting into a wicked grin. He then discussed the upcoming Charity Ball, revealing his expectations for their attendance. The room felt as if it were closing in, the weight of their mission pressing upon them.
The tension in the room was nearly suffocating as they finished the meal. Izuku's thoughts raced, his mind filled with the complexities of their situation. Returning to this dark path, accepting the role by Tomura's side, all for the safety of those he held dear—it was a heavy burden to bear.
Izuku's face remained a mask of cold resolve, but beneath the surface, a storm of turmoil raged within him. The haunting soundtrack of clinking silverware and glasses served as a reminder of the unsettling reality they now faced.
After the dinner drew to a close, Izuku stood up, a determined expression on his face, and addressed Tomura directly. "I wish to see Eri before I leave," he stated firmly, his voice unwavering.
Tomura's smile, devoid of warmth, did not reach his eyes. "I'm afraid she's asleep," he replied, his words carrying a veiled threat. "But don't worry, family surrounds her until your return."
Izuku's eyes sharpened, understanding the true meaning behind Tomura's words. The stakes were higher than ever, and the safety of Eri weighed heavily on his mind.
As the group made their way out of the dining room, Tomura halted Izuku with a whisper. "Make sure you don't disappoint me, Izuku," he cautioned, his voice a chilling reminder of the consequences that awaited failure.
Meeting Tomura's gaze with a steely determination, Izuku responded in a low, resolute voice. "I never do," he stated firmly, his words carrying an unspoken promise.
They proceeded down the dark hallway, the manor's large shadows swaying on the walls. Ochako and Iida caught up to them, their expressions reflecting a mixture of worry and unwavering resolve.
"You're more than welcomed, to return home and leave Eri with me," Tomura said.
Tomura's voice was smooth and mocking in his offer, but Ochako was determined to help Eri.
"No, we plan to stay with Eri to make sure she adjusts to the changes." Ochako said.
Izuku nodded silently, his gratitude clear in his eyes.
Approaching the entrance, Kaina awaited them, ready to escort them out. As Katsuki and Izuku stepped out into the cool night air, a sense of relief washed over them. It was as if they could finally breathe again, even if just for a moment.
Once they had distanced themselves from the manor and its haunting atmosphere, Katsuki turned to Izuku, his voice urgent. "We need to move fast," he said, his tone reflecting a sense of urgency and determination.
Izuku nodded. His face hardened with resolve, yet a flicker of worry and determination danced in his eyes. "We need to bring him down, once and for all," he declared, his words carrying the weight of their shared mission.
With a shared understanding, they set off into the night back home.