I'm sorry that this chapter wasn't written with my fullest, as I was also working on this outline for a new fic that my sister gave me.
Fun fact: The idea for this fic was also given to me by my sister.
During the Daihasei Festival, he didn't participate just as expected. The day of the festival had finally arrived, and the school was buzzing with excitement. Students, teachers, and even alumni were all dressed in their finest, the atmosphere electric. Hirano would stand at the edge of the festival grounds.
For hours, he would observe the ongoing activities, watching the joy and camaraderie of his classmates as they laughed, played games, and enjoyed the festivities. The sun was high overhead, casting a warm glow over the entire city. There were no rains on that 4 day event.
Hirano's presence was noted, though he was trying his best to remain unnoticed. His classmates were all caught up in the excitement, but they couldn't help but glance at him from time to time. Some talked to him, most just watched, curiosity etched on their faces.
The city wide event attracted a whole lot of attention from the outside world. There were booths selling food, games, and souvenirs. Students were competing in various contests, like singing, dancing, and even martial arts. The air was filled with laughter and the sound of music.
It was during the first day, during the ceremony where it was most lively. The ceremony was the highlight of the Daihasei Festival, an event that brought together students, teachers, and alumni to celebrate the year's achievements. The grounds were packed. There were at least 1000 or more people gathered, both city inhabitants and tourists, all dressed in their finest. The air buzzed with excitement, the sound of chatter and laughter mingling with the music playing from the speakers.
He ought to just stay inside the apartment. But those two women... they just couldn't leave him alone. They would even drag him out of the confines of his room. They just had to make him go down there, didn't they? In a way, they were both a source of support and a burden. Their relentless encouragement had been a constant presence in his life, and now they were here, dragging him out into the festival grounds.
It wasn't as bad as he had expected it to be, at least. He saw some familiar faces over there on the second day. Who could've known that Touma likes black coffee as well? The same brand as his too, what are the odds of that happening? The world seemed to be full of small coincidences and surprises, making it harder to navigate the complexities of his thoughts.
The rest of the day flies by quickly, going along with it was his anxiety. He felt more at ease, less like he was constantly on edge. He hoped that he could meet more of his friends, like a familiarity with the surroundings began to soothe his anxiety.
For 4 days straight, Hirano endured the Daihasei Festival, spectating the ongoing events and walking around simply for the sake of it. He joined in the celebrations when his classmates invited him, and even tried a few of the festival foods, but there was always a part of him that felt disconnected from it all. The memory of his reason for avoiding the festival in the first place lingered like a dark cloud, casting a shadow over his enjoyment.
The final day arrived, and with it came the grand parade. He was nowhere around when it took place. He was over by his apartment, watching from the balcony as the parade made its way down the main street. The colourful floats and costumes were a vivid contrast to the dark cloud that had settled over his thoughts.
He didn't linger over the thoughts for too long, and his mind drifted to the promise he had made. Next year, he thought. He could face whatever it was he was dreading then. The thought offered some comfort, though it did little to alleviate the constant unease he felt.
The remainder of the days that followed after the festival were a blur of routine. Hirano returned to his usual routine, the festival seeming like a distant memory. The days were filled with school, classes, and the usual monotony, though his mind often wandered back to the people he'd come to call his close friends; namely Touma and Misaki.
Touma's wound had healed up pretty quickly, thanks to the city's immense advancements in its technology and medicine. He was back to his usual self, though there was a noticeable change in his demeanour. There was a quiet strength and determination that hadn't been there before, perhaps a result of the ordeal he had been through.
Misaki, on the other hand, had been her usual cheerful self, though there was a faint shadow of concern in her eyes. More so towards the black haired boy. Hirano could feel something brewing between the two. They'd been friends longer than he had known those two, so it really shouldn't be a surprise that a horrible event such as that attack could change the dynamics of their relationships.
Days turned into weeks, and the festival became a distant memory, a reminder of his past and the promise he had made to Principal Morimoto. Hirano's classes were back to normal, the usual routine of lectures, assignments, and exams.
September came to pass, then came October. Autumn was in full swing, with the leaves changing colours, painting the town in hues of orange and red. The crisp air filled the city, bringing a refreshing change from the summer heat. Hirano found solace in the simple pleasures of the season: watching the leaves fall, sipping hot coffee, and enjoying the cosy atmosphere that the autumn brought.
He was beginning to see why this season was everyone's favourite. The air was crisp and cool, filled with the aroma of fallen leaves and the distant smell of pumpkin spice from the cafes. Hirano found himself looking forward to his daily walks through the park, where the vibrant colours of the autumn leaves provided a comforting backdrop to his thoughts.
Not even 2 weeks after Daihasei passed, however, another event took place. At least, according to... well, basically everyone. Halloween, they'd call it. He had never seen anything like it before. Kuroko, Frenda, Misaka, practically everyone from his former circle of friends from last year had mentioned it once. But he hadn't been exactly paying attention to it back then, what with those things that he had to deal with.
It still leaves a bitter taste in his mouth, as he thought back to those days. The festival had been a whirlwind of emotions and obligations, but he had managed to find some semblance of normalcy after the chaos had died down.
So to make it up, he tried to participate in the Halloween festivities, though it was more of a forced attempt. It wasn't as popular within Academy City, unlike outside of the city. It was supposedly an international event, but in Academy City, it didn't seem to resonate as much. Nonetheless, the spirit of the season was in the air, with students and teachers dressing up in various costumes and decorating their homes with spooky decorations.
Touma and Misaki... they made him put on a costume. His skinny complexity and sickly-looking appearance made him a perfect candidate for a vampire. Touma had insisted, saying it would be a laugh. Hirano had reluctantly agreed, more for their sake than his own.
His albinoistic skin and hair, the pale and almost ethereal appearance, made him a natural fit for the role. He had to admit, it was a good choice. The vampire costume accentuated his pale complexion, giving him an otherworldly aura. Misaki had added some fake fangs and a cape, making him look even more convincing.
For once in half a year now, he had to take his scarf off, so he kind of felt exposed. The costume's design emphasised his already pale skin, and the fake fangs felt awkward in his mouth. The cape, however, was the most uncomfortable part. It dragged on the floor, making every step he took a chore.
Touma and Misaki had both laughed at him, their eyes twinkling with amusement. It was hard to stay mad at them when they looked so genuinely happy.
Misaki herself dressed as a witch, complete with a pointed hat and a broom. Her eyes sparkled with mischief as she twirled her broom, clearly enjoying the festivities.
Touma, on the other hand, had opted for a more straightforward approach, dressing up as a ghost. A simple tablecloth with a cut out of a ghost face and some loose white fabric draped over his shoulders had done the trick. He looked more than a little ridiculous, but he was having the time of his life. The black haired guy doesn't plan on wasting any money on elaborate costumes when a simple bed sheet, some fabric and a pair of scissors would do.
The trio would run around the city, spending the evening playing pranks and enjoying the autumn weather. They visited various houses decorated with jack-o-lanterns and spider webs. The dorms, houses and apartments that were decorated would give you candies. Usually in large quantities.
It was shit, to say the least. He doesn't even like sweet things. He prefers the one that didn't decorate their places, as it usually means receiving some outrageous items. The old man on the third floor gave him a bag of Cheetos, which Hirano found amusing.
His accumulated candies were evenly distributed to the other two, who liked sweets. The best thing he brought home that night was a full-blown, perfectly good cabbage from the quiet lady on the fourth floor. She had even included a handwritten note that read, "For the vampire who knows how to appreciate real treats."
The next day, things go back to normal. Hirano returned to his daily routine, the memories of Halloween still lingering in his mind. The crisp autumn air felt invigorating, and he enjoyed the quiet morning walks to school, his scarf finally back to its usual place around his neck. The vibrant colours of the leaves had begun to fade, leaving behind a carpet of golden hues that crunched under his feet.
October has been a quiet month after that. He met up with the others on the weekends and went back to a quiet rhythm. The days were filled with school and the usual routine, though there was a subtle change in the atmosphere. It was as if the city was holding its breath, waiting for the next event, the next chapter in the story that was unfolding.
November was the same, but the first snow of the season began to fall, casting a serene silence over the city. The once vibrant colours of the leaves had been replaced by the white blanket that covered the ground. Hirano found himself looking forward to the mornings where the snowflakes gently fell, creating a magical atmosphere that seemed almost surreal.
It was honestly the most magical time of the year. The city was transformed into a winter wonderland, with the snow-covered buildings and streets looking like they belonged in a fairy tale. The crisp air and the gentle touch of snowflakes on his face made Hirano feel a rare sense of peace.
He bundled up and walked to school, his breath visible in the cold air. His classmates greeted him with enthusiasm, their eyes sparkling with the thrill of the season.
It was also the season where he would usually spend more time with Touma and Misaki, their gatherings more frequent and cosy as they huddled together over hot cups of coffee and the warmth of the fireplace. These moments were a balm to his soul, a reminder of the simple pleasures and the bonds that made life worth living.
Winter break was a time for relaxation and rejuvenation. Hirano found himself embracing the quiet, the stillness of the season. The days were shorter, and the nights were longer, providing ample time to indulge in his favourite activities—reading and simply enjoying the company of his friends.
Touma and Misaki were always there, their presence a constant source of comfort.
They say that when you have fun, time moves on just faster. And indeed, it felt like the days were blurring together, each one blending seamlessly into the next. As the weeks went by, Hirano found himself settling into a routine that felt more like a rhythm than a chore.
And eventually without him realising, the New Year was here.
The vast library of Tokiwadai is a labyrinth of shelves that seem to stretch endlessly spacious rooms that are filled with an endless array of books. Students and librarians move quietly, their footsteps echoing against the polished wooden floor. The air is thick with the musty smell of old paper and the faint scent of leather.
Quiet whispers and hushed conversations punctuate the serene environment. The library's high ceilings, adding to it a sense of grandeur and timelessness, seem to hold the collective knowledge of centuries. The students, clad in their traditional school uniforms, move purposefully, each with their own mission and purpose. Some sit in clusters, heads bent over textbooks, while others roam the aisles, searching for specific titles or books.
Tokiwadai itself was a prestigious all-girl's middle school, where discipline and academic rigour were paramount. Its students, known for their excellence and dedication, were the epitome of what it meant to be a scholar. The library, in particular, was a sanctuary for those seeking knowledge, a place where students found solace and solace in the pursuit of understanding.
Misaka Mikoto sat with an open book on palm, a large smile as a recent memory replayed itself in her mind. The book itself was a thick tome on advanced physics, its pages filled with intricate diagrams and complex equations. She was one of the top students in her class, known for her exceptional intellect and an almost encyclopaedic knowledge of the subject matter.
It really wouldn't befit someone like her to not know of those things anyway, as the 3rd Ranked Level 5, Misaka Mikoto's eyes gleamed with a quiet satisfaction as she turned a page, the soft rustle of paper a rhythmic accompaniment to her thoughts. She was here mostly to kill some time, a luxury she rarely allowed herself, but a break was just what she needed after a particularly gruelling event that took place just weeks prior. Many of it, actually, had left her with more questions than answers, but the library was a refuge, a place where she could escape the chaos and find solace in the quiet pursuit of knowledge.
This may sound weird, perhaps even completely absurd, but not even a month ago she was fighting a person wearing a mechanised power suit, complete with guns and a massive, lance-like weapon. She feels like she was living in a weird dream. The events had been a blur of action and adrenaline, a constant struggle to maintain her composure while keeping her enemies at bay. But here, in the library, surrounded by books that had silently witnessed the knowledge of countless generations, she could let her guard down, even if just for a moment.
She let out a sigh. Misaka leaned back in her chair, her chair creaked softly, the sound barely audible in the quiet library. She closed the book and got up from her seat, stretching her arms above her head. Her short, chestnut hair fell in a cascade of waves down her back, her movements purposeful but relaxed.
She pulled out her phone. Her friends should be here in a bit, so she might as well go outside and wait for them by the main entrance. She sat on a fountain near the gate, her legs idly swinging with a rhythmic sway.
It was already afternoon by then. She didn't have to wait long before her friends arrived. Ruiko and Uiharu also brought another addition with them, that being Erii, a girl they'd saved just a while back, at that, they started talking. A lot. As the topic between Saten, Uiharu and Erii shifted from cakes to the rose-scented atmosphere to rose-patterned panties by Uiharu, Mikoto decides to lead the girls to their next destination; The hospital.
So they walked out of School Garden, bringing with them several gifts. Mostly snacks and flowers for Banri. The crisp afternoon air filled with the gentle hum of cicadas, creating a soothing background noise as they strolled through the school garden. The group moved with a purposeful stride, their chatter gradually fading as they approached the hospital. Misaka Mikoto, ever the leader, walked ahead of her friends, her steps confident and steady.
The hospital loomed ahead, a towering structure that exuded calm professionalism. The sun cast a warm glow on the building, highlighting the intricate details of its architecture. The path leading to the main entrance was lined with blooming flowers, their vibrant colours adding a touch of vibrancy to the otherwise serene setting.
They entered, the omnipresent scent of sterilising agents and the quiet hum of machinery enveloping them. The group moved silently, their footsteps echoing softly against the polished floors. They walked down a hallway, the walls lined with framed photos of students from past generations, their smiles and achievements creating a backdrop of memory and tradition.
As they turned around a corner, they walked past several Anti-Skills. It wouldn't be normal not seeing them, considering the part of the hospital they're in. The corridor they were in was dimly lit, the soft glow of the fluorescent lights casting long shadows across the floor. The air was cool and sterile, a stark contrast to the warmth of the outside. They moved with cautious steps, their footsteps echoing softly against the polished surfaces.
They entered a room. The tense bubble bursts as the room they stepped into was a bright, airy space filled with the soothing hum of medical equipment. The walls were painted a calming light blue, and several large windows let in a flood of sunlight, casting a warm glow over the room.
"We've got cakes!" Uiharu bounced up and down, her excitement evident. She held up a large box of assorted treats, an excited glint in her eye. "And a bunch of roses for Banri!" Her excitement was infectious, and her friends couldn't help but smile.
The room was filled with their chatter. Banri's condition has been improving, her friends noticed. She lay in a bed, her eyes flickering between them as they entered. Her face, once pale and lined with pain, now showed a hint of colour, and though she was still weak, she looked relieved to see them.
"The rehab has been hard. But with you guys here, I'm feeling a bit better," Banri said softly, her voice weak but sincere. Her friends gathered around her bedside, their expressions softening with compassion.
For a moment, they continued chatting. But later on, Misaka may or may not have heard something that got her thinking. She excused herself, along with it she brought everyone. Erii and Banri stayed in that room.
On the way out, they stopped by the rehab area. The walls were lined with posters encouraging patients to push through their pain, and the floor was dotted with medical supplies and fitness equipment. The sound of machines and the occasional beep from a heart monitor filled the air. Misaka's eyes scanned the area, her mind sharp and analytical.
When she looked inside however, a flash of memories, a past that she might have already forgotten.
"No you're not."
Hirano deflates at the response. Kikyou was adamant about it. He however was tired of it. "Why not?" He replied, his tone a mix of frustration and resignation.
Kikyou crossed her arms, her eyes narrowing as she studied him. "Because you can't just skip an entire grade and go straight to high school. You must have a solid reason for this, and I won't accept any nonsense."
Hirano sighed, rubbing his temples. "Is getting the hell out of that place a not good enough reason?" Kikyou's eyes softened slightly as she noticed the tension in the boy's shoulders.
She stepped closer, her presence both reassuring and unyielding. "You know as well as I do that Academy City is not just any place. It's a complex web of politics and powers, and skipping a grade isn't something you can do lightly." She reasons. It was true; Academy City was a labyrinth of secrets and power struggles. It was a place where every action has consequences, and skipping a grade could be seen as a provocation by those who held the reins.
"They put you there to keep an eye on you. Leaving would most likely cause more problems than it solves," she continued, her voice softer but still firm. Hirano sighed, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly as Kikyou's words sank in. It was hard to argue with the truth, especially when it was spoken by someone who understood the intricate dynamics of Academy City better than most.
"They haven't been after you for, what now, nearly 2 years?" Kikyou's gaze was piercing, her eyes reflecting years of experience and wisdom. She knew the depth of Academy City's influence and the lengths they would go to maintain control. "And yet, you think they've forgotten?"
Hirano let out a frustrated breath and flopped onto his bed, staring at the ceiling. The argument had been going on for what felt like hours, and he had yet to find a convincing argument. Kikyou's words echoed in his mind, each one a reminder of the complex web he was trapped in.
"Kid, I'm sorry, but they won't just keep someone like you on a leash forever. They've got their reasons, and as much as you don't like it, you're a valuable asset to them," Kikyou continued, her tone softer but no less determined. Hirano's eyes drifted to the window, where the spring sun was gently lighting up the world, a stark contrast to the turmoil within him. The world outside seemed to be in a state of calm, while he was caught in a whirlwind of frustration and restlessness.
"I... sorry. I didn't mean to remind you of that... it's just..." She trails off, the weight of her own memories momentarily clouding her expression. Hirano's gaze returned to her, and for a moment, the two of them simply sat in silence, the tension in the air thick and oppressive.
"I know," he finally said, his voice barely more than a whisper. "But what choice do I have? It feels like I'm just going through the motions, waiting for something to happen."
There was a pause. After nearly an hour of bickering, the silence felt like a breath of fresh air. Kikyou's expression softened as she looked at Hirano, her eyes searching for a way to ease the tension. She had always been the voice of reason in their little group, but she also knew that sometimes, even reason couldn't fix everything.
"How about you go out," she said, her tone gentler now. "Go and take Aiho for her inspections at the hospital?"
He looked at her, raising an eyebrow in confusion. "Wouldn't I be skipping school?" Kikyou chuckled softly, her eyes twinkling with amusement.
"A little bit of rebellious behaviour never hurt anyone," she said, her voice playful but her eyes serious. "Besides, it's not like you haven't done it before. You know the routine; I'm sure you can manage."
Hirano hesitated for a moment, considering her words. He had never skipped a single class before. Had he? Pretty sure he hasn't. It's not like he was an average student, but he was definitely not a troublemaker either. He's never skipped a single class because he never really had a reason to. But the prospect of doing something different was tempting. The routine had become so monotonous, and Kikyou's suggestion felt like a breath of fresh air, a way to break free from the monotony.
"Can't you just tell them that I took her to the hospital or something and save me from having to explain myself tomorrow?" He asked, his voice tinged with frustrations. "Not only was it the truth, but you're also being a bad role model for your ward for God's sake."
Kikyou laughed, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Sure, sure," her voice light and teasing. "But where's the fun in that?"
"There's nothing fun about being yelled at." He could recall someone from his class being scolded in front of everyone. And it was just from being late by mere minutes. His teacher had been merciless, and the whole class had fallen silent, their eyes fixed on the embarrassed student. What would missing an entire day look like?
Hirano sighed, the thought of skipping school still weighing on his mind. The idea of breaking free from the monotonous routine was tempting, but the consequences were daunting. His eyes shifted back to the window, where the spring sun continued to light up the world outside, casting a warm glow on the snow-covered streets.
Kikyou noticed his hesitation and smiled softly. "Look, Hirano, I know it's scary to think about, but sometimes taking a break is exactly what you need. Just go out, take a walk, clear your head. It doesn't have to be a day-long affair. Even a few hours away from things can do wonders."
He hummed, fiddling with his shirt strings as he considered Kikyou's words. She was right, there was something in her tone, an understanding that came from years of experience and wisdom. Hirano let out a long sigh, finally surrendering to the weight of Kikyou's words and the allure of breaking free from the routine. "Alright," he said, a hint of determination creeping into his voice. "I'll go." Kikyou's eyes lit up with surprise and delight, and she grinned broadly.
"Excellent!" she exclaimed, clapping her hands together. "Let me ask Aiho first." Kikyou quickly hopped off the bed and hurried out of the room, leaving Hirano alone with his thoughts. The boy watched her go, and for a moment, he wondered if he had really made the right decision. But then again, maybe it was just what he needed. A breath of fresh air, a change of pace. He stood up, straightening his uniform and smoothing out his hair, before heading out the door to find Kikyou and Aiho.
His hair flattened at the weight of Aiho's hand, the girl's eyes sparkling with amusement as she fixed it. "There we go," she said, patting him on the head. "You look all presentable now." Hirano resisted the urge to roll his eyes, instead offering her a grateful nod.
He adored the woman. It was undeniable the effects and influence she had over him. She'd been the first to truly understand him, to see beyond the façade of the boy they expected him to be. And for that, Hirano was deeply grateful. He knew that if anyone could help him find a way through this mess, it was her.
She was, after all, the closest thing he had to an actual family. He had never had the luxury of normalcy, the kind of family that could offer unconditional love and support. But with Kikyou and Aiho, he had found something that felt very close to that.
They entered the hospital entrance, feeling her hand on his shoulder as she guided him through the bustling halls. The sterile smell of the hospital filled the air, a stark contrast to the natural world outside. Aiho's presence beside him was a calming anchor, and he was grateful for her unwavering support.
"Let's get this quick so we can head out," She said, her tone a mix of authority and warmth. As they made their way through the hospital, the sterile smell of disinfectant and the soft hum of medical equipment created a backdrop to the quiet conversation between them. Aiho's hand remained on Hirano's shoulder.
They met with a certain familiar doctor who's face was oddly similar to that of a frog. The doctor's face, often referred to as the "Frog Face," was both a source of amusement and a harbinger of necessary medical updates. Hirano had lost count of how many times he had visited this doctor.
"I hope you two are not planning on making a habit of these visits," the doctor said, his voice smooth and deep. "But I suppose it's good to see you both."
They nodded, her grip on Hirano's shoulder tightening slightly. "We need to check on Aiho's progress, and it's been a while since we've been in."
The doctor nodded, his eyes flickering with understanding. "Of course. Let's get started." The doctor led them into a sterile room, the smell of disinfectant growing stronger. Hirano and Aiho exchanged a glance before settling into the chairs, their eyes fixed on the doctor. He began the examination, his hands moving with practised ease, checking the various monitors and performing the necessary tests.
Aiho remained calm, her fingers tapping lightly on the armrest of her chair. The doctor's voice, smooth and professional, filled the room as he discussed Aiho's progress. Hirano listened intently, his eyes flicking between the doctor and Aiho, ensuring she was comfortable. Aiho's eyes were closed, a serene expression on her face, the occasional twitch of her fingers the only sign of her inner state.
The doctor, dubbed Heaven Chancellor, was definitely one of the greatest doctors to have existed. There were no defects in his medical skills, no delay in his diagnoses, and no hesitation in his treatments. Not a single complaint had been lodged against him, and his reputation was unmatched. There is nothing he couldn't heal, anything besides death, time, and brain damage. He was a god in his own right, and his presence in the hospital was a beacon of hope for many. Despite the somewhat unusual appearance, his medical prowess was undeniable.
The examination concluded, and the doctor gave them a reassuring smile. "Everything looks good, Aiho. You're progressing well," he said, his eyes twinkling with pride. "You can continue with your usual routine. No need to worry."
Aiho's eyes opened, and she smiled, relief evident in her expression. "Thank you, Doctor."
"Now, shall we begin with the therapy?" The doctor asked, his tone shifting to a more professional one. Hirano nodded, watching as Aiho stood up and followed the doctor to the next room. He trailed behind them, his mind still processing the doctor's words. As they entered the therapy room, a faint hum of machinery and soft rustling of sheets filled the air. Hirano watched as Aiho settled into the bed, the doctor adjusting the equipment with practised precision.
"Today, we're going to focus on strengthening her legs." The doctor explained, his voice steady and reassuring. "This is going to help her regain her mobility faster."
Aiho nodded, her eyes reflecting determination. Hirano stepped back, allowing her to have the doctor's full attention. He leaned against the wall, his eyes scanning the room as the therapy began. The rhythmic sound of the machines blended with the soft hum of the hospital, creating a soothing background noise.
Aiho lay still for a moment, adjusting herself on the bed. "This is usually gonna take around 45 minutes," the doctor said, his eyes flickering with a professional warmth. "I'll need you to stay, Hirano. Your presence can help her feel more at ease. But if you don't mind, could you go out and get her some drinks? She's gonna need to stay hydrated."
Hirano nodded, the request giving him a purpose. He stood up straight, smoothing his uniform before giving Aiho a reassuring smile. "I'll be right back," he said, turning and heading out of the room.
The moment he stepped out of the room however, he was greeted with a peculiar shout coming from his right. He wasn't given the time to look at the source of the noise. Immediately, something crashed onto him. Three of them. From the force of it, he concluded that whoever it is, is trying to outrun something.
Unfortunately for them, they wouldn't be able to with a broken arm. His vector barriers work by tampering with one's momentum. With a simple calculation of adding a mere '-' to the variables of their momentum, made it so that they felt as though they were hit with their very own momentum. The formula for it was so very fucking simple, allowing him to basically do the shit subconsciously.
Since it is done near instantaneously without him even noticing, it was easy for him to get surprised not only from the impact but only the sudden realisation that he was being hit. Hirano's eyes widened in shock as he felt the impact, the force of the collision sending him stumbling backward. The three figures, two man and a girl. Clad in the hospital nurse wear, while the girl was clearly a patient.
"Man, what the hell?" Hirano muttered, his mind still trying to process the sudden assault. The three figures quickly regained their composure, their eyes wide with panic and desperation. Hirano's eyes narrowed as he stood back up, his gaze shifting between them. "What do you think you're doing?" he demanded.
Just then, he heard several more footsteps. He looked up towards it. His breath hitched. His shoulder went stiff as he looked away. The ragged breathing, the strangled gasps, and the desperate movements of the figures in front of him seemed to fade into the background as he saw the person he least expected to see.
Just then, he heard several more footsteps. He looked up towards it. His breath hitched. His shoulder went stiff as he looked away. The ragged breathing, the strangled gasps, and the desperate movements of the figures in front of him seemed to fade into the background as he saw the person he least expected to see.
"You..." She was at a loss for words. Her voice caught in her throat, struggling to form a coherent sentence. He kept his gaze on the floor, but the realisation of her presence overwhelmed him.
The girl on the floor immediately got up and ran towards her, hugging Misaka by the waist, utterly 's eyes widened as she tried to process the situation. Hirano's heart pounded in his chest as he struggled to reconcile the unexpected reunion.
"Could you... restrain those two, please?" Misaka's voice was steady, though it lacked the usual warmth. Hirano's mind was a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. He looked at the two men on his feet, clutching their broken arms and wide-eyed with fear.
"Sure," Hirano murmured, grabbing the two by the collars. He didn't hesitate; the situation demanded swift action. They wriggled and yelped as Hirano's grip tightened, their frantic eyes darting between him and the approaching Misaka. Hirano's gaze remained fixed on Misaka, his mind still trying to process the sudden turn of events. The unexpected reunion with Misaka, a person from his past, flooded his thoughts with memories and unresolved questions.
"What are you doing here?" Hirano's voice was low, his eyes still locked on Misaka.
Misaka's eyes flickered with a mixture of relief and uncertainty. "I could ask the same for you." The tension in the air was palpable as Misaka's words hung in the air. Hirano's grip on the two men loosened slightly, but his focus remained on her. He took a step back, his mind racing with the myriad of emotions that had been bottled up for years.
Misaka's eyes, usually so bright and full of confidence, now held a flicker of vulnerability. It wasn't just her now. Several more, he heard, more footsteps. Hirano's eyes flicked towards the source of the new sounds, and his heart sank as he recognized the distinctive footsteps of a familiar group. The hospital's sterile corridors seemed to echo with the weight of their presence.
Two figures emerged from the corridor, all of which he'd recognized. The sound of hitched breaths and shuffling footsteps filled the air as two familiar figures appeared in the corridor. Their lithe forms seemed to glide across the floor, though the tension in their eyes betrayed their weariness.
He'd been meaning to visit them. At least back then. He never really did. Not that he didn't care, it's just that he was... distracted by his own thoughts and the endless cycle of work and duty. But here they were now, and his guilt began to gnaw at him as they approached.
New chapter next week!