MHA : a Monster or a Hero?

by O.M.H the Stellar Knight

This is just an imaginary story from my mind, nothing you read here is real. I own nothing My hero academia belongs to Kōhei Horikoshi. the other belongs to Capcom. I hope everyone can enjoy this story despite my lack of creativity...I mean who will be interested in the story of a nameless amnesiac with no quirk or identity hidden many secrets waiting to shake the world.

14. Chapter 14 : Departure

5 months ago, Egypt, ?.

he was sitting in a high class comfortable chair like a successful business man owning a renowned company...yet the Coyotes leader was no such man.

Eyeing the ancient treasures before him with greed, a simple relic among these 4 is worth more than he could have asked for in years.

"Such an outstanding performance…in less than two months..." to say he was impressed by his subordinates achievements will be a lie…

he has many of them scattered across the sandy plain's cities, to some they were a bunch of highly skilled burglars, their nickname the "Desert Coyotes" didn't came by coincidence as they are known for using the dunes as a hiding shelter, even some of the top heroes in Egypt had difficulties catching them when they flee to those burning sands...they are also cunning tricksters hence the name "Coyotes"…

while their stolen goods range from purses to jewelries, on rare occasions when the circumstances are on their favor, they do attack more profitable targets, under the guidance of their boss.

Most of the time with some luck they succeed, unless something goes wrong.

They had tried before taking on the Thebes's museum...and nearly could have done it , if it was not for an miscalculated factor…their Boss planed the attack based on information gathered and summed two days ago before the showdown's date…

on that day the museum's staff added a new recruit to their lines…

" that operation would have succeeded...if it wasn't for the Echolocation brat! " the Boss muttered angrily to himself upon remembering their bitter failure...but that soon drove him back into the main track he was on before.

I never excepted those idiots to be useful...they can't even do a solid job without inviting the police and pro heroes suspicion…

about ten months ago it was no surprise to hear they got into trouble for the third time in a week...the usual was four times…

but that day what was anything but normal, because you don't always wake up to news like 'your minions got the attention of Egypt's top after failing to steal an Astrolabe from a nameless beggar.'

Astrolabes are ancient devices used for navigation dating back to the Greek era, not a world-class treasure but still not a worthless one either…he was about to order his other more useful and capable subordinates to snatch it...but hearing about the strange beggar's ability to defeat the idiots 3 vs 1 gave him a pause…not to mention the way he covered for them instead of reporting their assault...

during the late century, rich people purchased many ancient relics to show off their wealth and power and the Astrolabes where no exception, it only occurred to him when the bullhead was begging him to get revenge on that beggar.

" in the present, they are only two ways to get your hands on one of those Artifacts…buy it for a fortune or steal it like a ghost" was his reply to the bullhead and by the way he described the looks of said 'beggar' he knew how he got it, the swift retreat from the pros in that situation reinforced his suspicion.

While it may have seemed to the bullhead like his boss was trying to 'punish' the beggar for humiliating them, he had other plans.

I never excepted them to do it in the first place...they could have made great scapegoats to scan for vulnerabilities in any of the top museums…

" instead they managed to do what I couldn't in years...or should I say 'he' did what I couldn't "

the first interaction with the one calling himself Dehni went strangely in an unusual way, the tone of worry and fear was all he was used to hear on the other end of phone calls, uncharacteristically calm and a taunting attitude was not, but what truly astonished him was he knew they are with the "Desert Coyotes", of course other groups exists in Egypt...and it could have being a mistake done by his subordinates exposing their logo, yet his long career of being a band of thieves leader said otherwise.

He somehow knew who we are...plus the Astrolabe he holds...we're dealing with not so 'nameless nobody with sorry information gathering skills' person.

" information gathering...huh ?" the more he thought about it, the more bewildered he gets...

he's definitely hiding something, but I could care less…

Yet he was no foolish man, the strange behavior was the only indication he could theorize on, and it was enough to draw out Dehni's intentions. Especially after Thebes event.

He doesn't care about money...he only cares about finding a special 'someone'...I thought it was a sly lie with only the purpose to catch the trio off guard when they cornered him in Cairo...yet he wasn't lying…

-flashback-

" but Boss!" Scrapy tried to protest.

While usually he hated being talked back to...this time he could make a gamble by not snapping and exposing himself to the taunting brat.

" shut it, he won't tell anyone because he doesn't care nor have the time to do so...am I right ?"

as if the other part understood his play...he answered with.

" reading people is one of the most crucial skills for a leader…" to the three thugs it sounded like a complain...to him it was more like :

" I know where are you going " which only made him to smirk despite not able to transfer such expression.

" you're right plus I couldn't ask for a better deal in my current position, I accept the job, however once I deliver those artifacts consider the deal off " he continued, admitting what the thugs suspected was an answer to their Boss's question…

yet he knew otherwise, "I will play along, because your plans currently works with mine, however once I finish we are no longer allies" was more like it.

The confidence in his tone made it sound like a challenge, never did the boss got challenged before by some nameless beggar-looking teen, nor his ego let him sulk it down without a proper reply.

" very well...one last thing, you need a code-name otherwise my subordinates will mistake you for a...rival"

as if the nameless understood the hidden message of " very well...after the deal is off, you need to run otherwise I will consider you a threat to my 'business'"

if he thought he wasn't intending on challenging him before, his last phrase confirmed his assumption.

" no need for a code-name, boss. After all I'm ju~st a nobody...you can call me...Dehni" or in other words :

" no need to run, after all you don't know anything about me in the first place...but you can call me...Dehni"

-end of flashback-

a nickname or his real name ? Was he daring me to do something or was he just giving me an excuse not to ?

" Hmph!" the boss smirked again, never before did he encounter such an enigmatic fella.

Yet I can'tcare about that anymore...as long as he doesn't endanger my business...I may as well consider recruiting him…

but on second thinking about that last thought, he reminded himself why the fella was interesting in the first place…it was because his lack of interest in anything besides finding the 'special someone'.

And to make things more bizarre, the Astrolabe he has isn't just an ancient relic as I thought...if he's behavior in Thebes was any indication, the artifact he has is nothing short of a wide-range tracking device.

" however there's still something I don't get…" he took out a sheet of paper with a grand title of Salaam encounters the Masked Phantom ! in the front page.

-meanwhile, Egypt, Cairo-

in an old construction site...where no light reach, hidden from sight are the four Phantom thieves, during the last months their reputation grows with each successful raid...but now such reputation might backfire.

" this is it, our last operation before we go on our own separate ways…did 5 months already pass that fast ?" Scrapy exclaimed with a bit of sadness in his tone.

" our last mission...and the hardest one...the big boss guarding the treasure is none other than Egypt's top and our nemesis…" Inventory added trying to insert some epic feeling to the picture.

" there are really prepared this time...I never seen so many pros in one place before…" Buffalo's dread could be heard.

" of course they are...after all the treasures we stole so far had one thing in common…" Dehni begins to explain ,dark ruby eyes scanning every possible threat to his plan, not caring about the sudden gazes he received.

" eh ? A common thing ? Like what aren't they all ancient Egyptians relics ?" Scrapy asked.

" yeah that got be it ! or their value in the black market !" Inventory added.

" for once I'm surprised they used their brains…" Dehni turned to a baffled Buffalo.

" HEY!/HEY!" that was not the answer they wanted…

" me too…Sigh...anyway, not a bad beginning, see you should try to look more beyond the obvious details and deeper in what's between the lines..." and Buffalo's comment furthered their annoyance, before their visages morphed into innocent confusion.

" deep details…?" Scrapy drew out.

" between the lines ?" and Inventory ended.

" yes, while indeed what we stole so far areobviously artifacts of ancient Egyptians, who these artifacts belonged to is what makes the difference…" Dehni begin to explain, but he stopped midway for that tidbit to sink in their thick heads…

" hmmm…who the artifacts belonged to ? / that's what make the difference ?"

steam seemed to rise from their heads as they tried their best.

" Facepalm, I thought my expectations were low, but it's seems their IQ is lower" Buffalo ranted.

" Royalties, the artifacts belonged to famous royalties" Dehni released their brains from the hyperactivity emergency they faced.

" r-right!/ I was going to say that!" they sheepishly rubbed their heads.

" Narmer, Nefertiti, Amenhotep and Ramses...all famous royals...and all of their artifacts where held in tightly secure museums…" Buffalo drew out.

" using that logic it's not hard to summarize our next target is none other than the golden mask of Tautankhamun, in the capital Cairo…" Dehni continued in his place.

" I told you it's like a video game final mission!" Inventory said to Scrapy.

" final mission huh ?...I feel a bit sad knowing we will not see you again, I was getting used to your annoying attitude too...sniff!" Scrapy went emotional.

" me too man ! I will always cherish our memories together...even when you used us as bait for the pro heroes twice! Sniff!"

" finally I'll get rid of you and I will never have to deal with your stupid, irrational, illogical, super suspicious, tension rising, successful mad plans !" Buffalo's face darkened, refusing to face what was some months ago, his source of ire…

" owww~you really gonna miss me that bad !? Maybe I should ask the Boss to let me become a part of the Coyo-"

" HELL NO!" the trio roared at once.

" ju~st kidding...but on a more serious note…" upon seeing his face morphing into slightly serious visage, their focus renowned.

" if we do .mistake it will be over for us, and we will end up in jail for the rest of our lives"

" we will do our best!" Scrapy cheered.

" and we will never give up till the very end!" Inventory joined him.

" because staying with you in jail...is a nightmare fuel we cannot afford!" and Buffalo motivated them too.

" I thought you guys were about to shed tears for separating ways with me ? Was that all an act ?"

he looked hurt for a moment.

" actually I was sad knowing our final mission has very low success rate…" Scrapy explained a hint of honesty in his tone.

" same here, running from normal pros is something, running from Egypt's tops is another thing…" Inventory's response held the same amount of emotion.

Dehni looked at Buffalo for anything…

" I was happy…" Buffalo smiled mysteriously...

" really ?!" which made Dehni feel hopeful…

" yes !, for returning to our old style stealing methods of just bash and snatch…" the bullhead admitted without remorse, in fact there was a hint of a sadistic glee in his eyes.

" I feel hurt…" Dehni clutched his heart as if it was broken.

" HAH! Emotional Damage!" three looked weirdly at Inventory, his only reply was.

" what ? I couldn't resist that line after all he put us through!"

" sigh, fine, fine, I understand...but let's be clear...I want to be done with this deal as soon as I can...and I'm sure you all share this feeling with me...I admit in my current...state...I can't do much but to rely on my information gathering skills...if we want this mission to succeed then we have to work together as a team...any selfish act or wrong moves from anyone of us will be a fatal mistake...do you understand ?" for once his words didn't feel like a sarcastic insult or something around the line.

"…" the trio looked between themselves, before addressing him as one.

" we do"

" good, so here's the plan…"

I need to gain their trust before explaining my plan...I will probably gain the greed of their boss, but I have to because they are no other options with my limited time…

-meanwhile-

"this doesn't add up…"

Salaam isn't your everyday pro, he's a top class hero...even the strongest villains in the world will find difficulties taking him down...but outrunning him is something else entirely…

'the Phantom thief threw a flash-bang that caught Salaam off guard, when the light died down there's was no trace to the thief...living up to his title…"

I know that area well...he was cornered in a place with no possible way to escape except by climbing the tenfloors buildings...yet even for the most acrobatic Quirk-athletes, that would take a few seconds...if not a minute at least...the flashlight lasted for about 2 seconds...plus there was no trace for any high-powered jump in the ground.

" you don't know anything about me huh ? Hmmm, Hmph! not bad at all"

..this leaves two possibilities...one, he can use some sort of light-Quirk like the shining baby...not a mutation type...but the museum's detectorspicked up nothing during his invasions ?...however if that was the case, why he didn't use it when my men encountered him ? Hmmm...a very disadvantageous drawback perhaps ? A time limit ?...no, if who he was up against was any ordinary hero I could say that...yet Salaam could have managed to catch him sneaking on even with Invisibility…not to mention the other pros that caught up to them a few moments later...

" this leaves only one reasonable explanation...he has some sort of teleportation quirk…"

-meanwhile-

" and I thought you were crazy before !" Scrapy eyes mimicked his words.

" me too, how do you want us to believe you ?" Inventory too.

" I know some rare lucky people can do something like that...but a device with short-distance teleportation is not something I have ever heard of!" Buffalo always saw him pick the gold-yellow 'ethereal astrolabe' as he liked to call it...shining strangely for a few seconds but that's it…

" Sigh, alright, how about a demonstration then ?" he didn't wait for any response or reaction as he shout out three words in Arabic.

" ETHEREAL ASTROLABE : TELEPORT !" a blinding golden flash made the trio shield their eyes, once the light was gone and they could see again...the spot where Dehni was in was empty…

" wh-where did he go ?" Scrapy looked frankly around.

" here" they looked down at a waving maniac 7 floors on away in the hollow ground...he jumped back up again…taking way more time that what the flashlight took.

" woah ! so this is real, this thing can teleport!"

" unbelievable !"

while the idiot duo were amazed, Buffalo was silent.

" but, there are limits to it's usage, this trick eat up a lot of energy...I need to wait 3 days until I can reuse it"

" so it's not that great huh ?" Scrapy's amazement died down slightly.

" plus it can only teleport one person at a time" he stated another disadvantage.

" yep, not very great" which made Inventory mimic Scrapy's mocking.

" yet it's still useful...I won't ask who built it, nor I care how it works...but I have one thing to add...even with a neat trick like this on our side...we are still outnumbered and outwitted, it is impossible to penetrate Cairo's Fortress" Buffalo commented.

Dehni's reply was a sly smirk.

" outnumbered yes, outwitted no...you just need to know where and when to strike, because even the hardest of diamonds have vulnerabilities"

" unfortunately this 'diamond' has no such visible flaws" Buffalo folded his arms, more annoyed than usual and not because of Dehni this time.

Due to their repeated 'visits' to what appeared random museums in the first two months...the whole country rose to high alert...forcing them to stay put for three months straight...but that didn't leave Dehni from roaming each city of the Nile one by one while 'waiting'…

now when things seemed to die down, this happens, guarding the Cairo's Fortress like the loyal dogs they are…

DANG IT!

" so I guess it's 3 days preparation from now, right ? " Scrapy's comment snapped Buffalo from his darkening thoughts...

"yes and no, we need to wait for the right chance to strike...until now I have no well formulated plan...but I'll try gathering enough info to make one…" Dehni admitted sincerely.

"you three go and gather what you can...I will stay here and...cool down before joining you"

the Buffalo and the red-haired maniac exchanged looks...before…

" roger that" he turned and walked off...followed by the idiots duo after a stern look from their leader.

…

..

.
after a few minutes of sitting down, he took his phone and dialed a certain number…

…

..

.

" I see...never excepted such thing to exist...but he's not lying about it" the voice of his Boss ringed in the hollow room.

" we saw a demonstration sir but I don't trust him, he's a sly trickster" the Buffalo's tone indicated he was tired and not from overwork.

" are you saying you're doubting me ?"

" absolutely no, sir!"

" good, now I want you to do what he tells you until you get the mask and out of the danger zone"

" yes sir!"

" dismissed, Bip"

deeply inhaling and exhaling multiple times before following the trail of his companions...

…

" a tracking and teleportation device, huh ? such thing is worth all 5 artifacts combined...the Phantom did a solid job in these past 4 months...it's enough to bat an eye for such a treasure…"

until our deal is over anyway…

…

the entirety of that day they stayed hidden, observing what they can and noting down the tiniest important detail…one such detail was about a visit of a certain very important man to the museum…the info they were looking for…

now by the dawn of the second day...they were in a isolated place away from the Capital and nearby the Pyramids…

" from what we gathered so far our only chance to penetrate this fortress-like building is by sneaking in when are least excepting us...during the visit of the Minister at noon…" Dehni begin the explanation.

" but the security will be tripled…" Scrapy complained as usual.

" same goes for the sunlight's intensity !" Inventory followed him.

" I prefer a Bronzage not being grilled alive !" Scrapy continued complaining.

" in your case isn't it more appropriate to call it 'Ironage' ?" of course Dehni didn't stay serious.

Scrapy looked offended by that and was about to give a feedback, backed up by his partner.

" you two shut it !" buuut Buffalo ordered otherwise.

" ohh~ are you coming to my defense ?"

" hmmm...getting grilled alive just to see you sweat for once will be worth it...of course the success of your mad idea is a second priority too" Buffalo smirked wickedly at Dehni, the later was cupping his chin in deep thought…

" wait...I think it's a bad idea…" he declared after a few moments of thinking.

" huh ? Really ? Why ? none of your crazy ideas went horribly wrong before so what's the difference now ?" Inventory innocently asked.

" I'm confident that with our trickery we can conceal ourselves well among the visitors...yet there's one thing that might drew attention and we absolutely cannot conceal...it's...it's…"

Dehni's face held an intense gaze as he looked them dead in the eyes.

" Barbecue's scent…"

…

..
.

" but, we won't hold any steaks with us, right ?" Scrapy begun...ignorant to the real meaning behind the maniac words…

" yeah ? I mean we don't have any...cattle either" Inventory added in the same ignorant way.

*Veins bulging sound*

the two clowns looked behind them...at the steaming Buffalo's form…

" Oh!" a simple word meant their realization has finally sunk in.

and once they gazed back at a very satisfied and verysmiley Dehni, they knew he meant their leader and none else.

So they tried their best to reason with Buffalo, who was slowly walking towards the unwavering source of ire.

" B-boss! You are used to his nonsense, this isn't the first time remember!" credit to Scrapy's iron-nerves for standing up to such scary gaze.

" y-yeah and this could be the last time...besides we still need him functional for the big show!" for once Inventory's brain was an empty void.

" so please DON'T BREAK HIM!"

to their credit the Buffalo paused mid-walking, his once shadowed face morphed into a thinking one, mimicking the same pose Dehni did before this.

" hmmm, you two are right ! We have to keep him functional!"

" yes yes!"

" and if we finish this ordeal we won't deal with his nonsense anymore...or at least tolerate it without a proper reply"

" yes yes!"

" so I will be generous this time...Jerboa...you have being an ally in thievery for the past months and a funny one sometimes...so...I will give the advantage of time, a whole 30 seconds...just for you to run for your miserable worthless life !"

" a-ahhhhh?...I wasn't joking...your well-done steak-like scent might backfire in our faces"

Dehni didn't seem like he was lying this time.

" nor do I care about your plans anymore...10 !…" and Buffalo wasn't listening.

" wait! Hold up! Wasn't it supposed to be 30 seconds head-start ?"

" 9 !…"

" never mind FNNN!" surprisingly despite it being a little hot in morning, the maniac was kicking up dust behind him.

" 3!…"

" eh ? Boss the count should be 8, no ?" Scrapy pointed out.

" 0!...I WILL SKIN YOU ALIVE YA SEWERS RAT !"

" forget it…"

" should we stop him ?" Inventory asked.

" hmmm, nah unless you want to become like mashed potatoes " and Scrapy wisely replied.

However they followed their trail anyway.

…

" BUT I WASN'T JOKING ABOUT IT !"

" LIAR !"

" fine...the first comment I intended it as a joke but the second was a contemplation !"

" YOU'RE A DEAD MAN WALKING IN ANY CASE !"

" correction I'm a dead man RUNNING !"

a sudden flash of light ahead of them caught Dehni's attention for a moment, he had only seconds to duck to the ground, avoiding the burst of wind that rammed into the Buffalo that nearly caught up to him…

this is…

it took only a glance around to understand where they stumbled into.

" Y-YOU BASTARD ! YOU THINK SOME BREEZE CAN SAVE YOU!"

" wait!"

Dehni spread his hands in surrender as the enraged ox approached him like a hungry lion.

" I think I have fou-GRH!" he swiftly avoided an upper-swing aimed for his head…

" I. DON'T. CARE!"

" just a few seconds there's-"

before the Buffalo could launched another berserk attack, a second burst of wind blasted sand between them creating a temporary smokescreen.

" what's this trickery ?! You can run but you can't hide from me!"

" this isn't my doing...3 O'CLOCK LOOK OUT!"

despite the seething rage he was in, Buffalo looked around at the after-mentioned location...it took great reflexes and instinct to held his large arms like a shield in time to block. However, the blast of wind sent him a few feet yet he was not very fazed.

" w-what the ?!"

" would you believe me if I told you a Meerkat is the culprit ?"

" enough joking around! I will get back at you once I teach the idiot who attacked me a lesson! "

" alright I will sit down and wait for you here…" seeing as his source of ire has no where to run the Buffalo marched toward the attacking enemy.

…

..

.

a few minutes later, the idiot duo joined Dehni who was sitting on a nearby rock…

" eh ? Where's the boss ? Did you sent him somewhere with your E.A. ?" Inventory asked curiously.

" E.A. ?"

" it's short for Ethereal Astrolabe"

" oh~! That has a nice ring to it...as for Buffalo...he will probably join us soon via the mutated Desert Weasel's airlines" Dehni told them as if he discussing the weather.

" what ?" was their natural response to such explanation.

ahhhhhhhAHHHHHHHHHH!

CRASH!

" B-BOSS! ARE YOU ALRIGHT !?"

" ...of...course I'm not...you idiots…"

" so~ ? Did you believe me now ?"

" the hell...happened...all I found was a bunch of desert rodents, a flash of dim light, then, I was blasted out of nowhere !"

" correction, you were blasted by a wind-cannon Meerkat" Dehni clarified, which only made the duo more puzzled.

" ...I will...MAKE A CARPET FROM IT'S FUR!" and Buffalo more enraged...maybe because the fact he was busted by a weasel of all things...

" HOLD IT!"

" what ?!"

" I have found a better strategy"

" it's better be good for your own sake !"

" oh it is...if a strong bulky man like you was easily blasted by that weasel…"

" which part of 'for your own sake' you don't understand ?"

" well imagine what will happen when a lot of mid-class pros face said angry weasel ?"

"...I see where are you going...what's in your mind ?"

" simply...Timon-"

"Facepalm ...of course what else will he nickname it" Inventory off all people facepalmed. He earned weird looks from the others for his troubles.

" what ? You never watched the Lion king ?" he defended but before they could say anything, Dehni interrupted.

"-as I said...Timon will make a very good distraction...because while animals with quirks are rare...they aren't unheard of, no offense"

" a head-on assault as decoy with the Meerkat while we sneak and steal during the chaos ?" Buffalo drew out, not wanting to even say 'none is taken' because he knew there was some offense there.

" not exactly...we will make it look like the Meerkat is responsible for the Quirk's alarms and during the chaos we will snatch the Golden Mask and book it"

" not bad for a plan if you ask me...it's near impossible to not find a simple square in that building not in the range of a quirk-activation detector" Scrapy pointed out.

" this only leaves us with the problem of how long the chaos will last...if we managed to make it happen in the first place" Inventory added.

" leave it to me…so here's the plan, tomorrow is the Minister's visit...but it's not the only place he will check...they are other facilities he will go to"

" and who told you ? The Meerkat ?" Scrapy's commented

"…" Dehni's response was a dumbfounded look.

" yeah, yeah, information gathering"

" anyway, they are other places the Minister is scheduled to visit...this means while the police and some pros will guard the Museum during his visit…"

" other places will need protection too...making sure the Minister won't stumble into any unwanted company" Buffalo concluded more motivated than before.

" exactly, we won't find any better chance to strike, tomorrow the Cairo's Fortress will be at it's weakest."

" I understand your reasoning, the Meerkat will buy us some valuable time...the Minister's factor will cut the number of the pros into a manageable degree...this leaves one problem...how do we get inside without rising suspicion or alarm ?" Buffalo now was looking less steaming and more concentrating.

" yeah, during the visit of the Minister no one is allowed to enter!" Inventory pointed out the obvious.

" hmmm...any blueprints this time ?" Buffalo hoped at least this time, the Coyotes will lend a hand like they did in Thebes.

"checked, this building is not called a Fortress for giggles…" was Inventory's reply.

" and thanks to the tightened security I couldn't do anything to gather more valuable information…" Dehni admitted.

" Tsk! maybe we should strike at night" Scrapy was getting irritated.

" no, that would be a fatal mistake" Dehni said with certainty in his eyes.

" and why's that ?" Buffalo asked for clarification.

" we always used the cover of the night for our operations...gaining the Phantom thieves as a nickname...and Phantoms don't come out during the day do they ?" Dehni replied.

" sigh they are excepting an attack when the night falls…"

" then what can we do ? There's no known vulnerabilities we can exploit, or hidden passages like the previous museums !" Inventory sounded defeated.

the trio looked at the Maniac.

" true...this fortress doesn't have any visible vulnerabilities...except for one…"

" the ventilation system on the roof like Alexandria ?"

" no"

" underground old coal mine tunnel system like Giza ?"

" another no"

" hidden Sewers pipelines like Thebes ?"

" nope"

" THEN WHAT ?!" the trio roared as one.

" it's simple...the guards themselves" he said casually.

" eh ? What do you mean by that ?" Scrapy worded out the shared question hanging in their minds.

" from what I gathered so far the security alert system is the top in all of Egypt if not the whole of Africa...the structure is build like a fortress...penetrating it without making a commotion is near impossible without a very-appropriate quirk and devices...but there's one thing this fortress lack…"

" and that would be ?" Buffalo wanted a very clear reply...his tone indicated that his patience is running out.

" a princess !"

FACEPLANT!

" pff...just kidding, what it lacks is balanced guardians"

" what do you mean by balanced guardians ? Those walls are more than balanced ! they are on par with the boss here in terms of raw strength if not more powerful"

" I can take on any one of them any day...however, that's aside you're still vague about how could a bunch of-"

" a bunch of knuckleheads that are only good with combat do ?...they rely on the security system as if it was their own ears...however tomorrow isn't a normal day for them...they need more and much alive ears…"

" alright, can you say a direct good, useful, phrase for once ?"

" he's trying to say that the Minister's tour might need an escort during the museum's visit...and to keep also an eye on any suspicious individuals among the journalists...whom unfortunately for them have the freedom to use their quirks as along as they need to fill up their magazines"

" ohhh!" thankfully Buffalo's explanation sunk faster than Dehni's words...

" the pros will be outside, and most of the guardians will keep an eye on the journalists inside, the rest will stay in the central watch room to deactivate the quirk-sensors in the occupied sections by the Minister"

" and how is that considered a weak-point ?" maybe he should give the explanation role to the Buffalo.

" it's simple...the deactivation means we have a chance to sneak with the journalists in via some sort of well done disguise like we did in Thebes" again Buffalo words did the job.

" nope !, we will not disguise ourselves as journalists...but as the extra manpower" either his doing it on purpose or he's pushing his luck.

" you have a plan ?"

" yes and I can assure you I we won't drew any attention to us...you just need to memorize some stuff and-"

" I disagree…" for once the Buffalo disagreed with him, even his minions looked surprised.

" huh ? But I already formulated the plan...it's not that hard to pull off"

" no, I'm not entirely disagreeing with your plan...just the part about the disguise" the Buffalo cleared his misunderstanding.

"...you want to disguise as journalists because you can play the role better than the guardian of the building you're trying to rob blind ?" somehow it's seems like Dehni understood what he was getting at.

"...yes…"

" very well, however you must make sure to not draw any attention to yourselves"

" don't worry...I know what to do, right boys ?"

" SIR! YES SIR!"

" good in that case you two I have a special mission for you to do"

…

..
.

" you can't be serious!" Scrapy thought he was joking.

" the tranquilizer will last two hours, and we need Timon as distraction"

" how about we look for a Bumba too!" Inventory sarcastically joked.

"yeesh, you guys are no fun…" Dehni replied in kind.

" WE WANT TO LIVE!" understandable reason.

" sigh, if we really need the furry weasel then why don't you join them for the catch ?"

" simply because I have to set an ambush for the extra manpower that will join the museum's tomorrow...I know the route he will take, but not the exact time"

" and why don't you send us to set the ambush while you take care of the weasel ?"

" yeah! Why not ? " Scrapy and Inventory protested.

" you two enough" Buffalo was tired...tired of everything...especially they constant ranting and complains.

" but/but!" they tried to look for an excuse.

" 4 times he planned our operations, and 4 times they succeeded...this one not different, he may be an annoying little Jerboa sometimes, but his decisions are carefully calculated !"

" ow~ thank you Minotaur"

"...Hmmm, well at least 'Minotaur' sounds more like a complain than an insult so I will let it pass"

yup he was tired.

" it was a complain...thanks for trusting me all this time...I know I'm a passerby, yet I'm grateful for your corporation until the very end...you have saved me a lot of time otherwise I would have taken hours arguing with these two" he was not lying on this one...not the last part anyway.

" Hmph! Who cares ? let's get this over with...you two handle the Meerkat and bring it back alive !"

" what about our lives !"

an intense look from Buffalo sent them running.

…

..

.

" how would we know his car's identity ?"

the route was a remote one...set between mountains...a perfect shortcut for those who wants to arrives fast, but also dangerous trap for the unlucky...

" it's a Lamborghini Urus...color's red...look's brand new...I'm still wondering how he could buy a 300K dollar one with that job"

" who told you they are that expensive ?"

" wait you mean you aren't going to question why I said a Red Lamborghini of all types ?"

" hold up…what ?"

" a-ah I mean I didn't know they are that cheap !"

" hmmm...no not very cheap...electric cars took off the market by storm...a brand new one Urus is 50k dollar still not enough for a museum's guard to afford...the show off must have rent it for this special occasion…but why did I felt offended so suddenly when you said 'Red Lamborghini' "

it was on that moment when a very shiny new and very strawberry red high class car appeared from a corner.

The golden bull logo spoke volumes of explanation.

" Ohhhh! A Red Lamborghini...I knew 'Minotaur' was an insult…"

" well look at the bright side!...it wasn't a very low insult" Dehni told him.

" GRRRR! you really are either carrying a 4-leaf clover or knows well when to open your mouth"

" hmmm ? Guess it's the later...in any case...just block the way I only need a few words with him"

despite his rising temper he obeyed the order.

…

..

.

" yeah, I told you I will be there by morning...no! I'm not a trainee anymore I know the protocol well!...fine, fine...okay, see ya BIP" Big-ears, flat-nose, vampire-like fangs...it didn't take a genius to know what's this one's ability is.

" sigh...they still think I'm incompetent after all these years."

CRASH!

" GAH!"

FWWWWWW!

" *HUFF* *HUFF* Wh-what was that !?"

" greetings, Batman !"

" W-what ?!" the frightened man turned into the his other side seeing a slightly familiar mask. It took him only a moment to realize it was who they are.

" THE P-P-PHANTOMS !"

before he could punch the gas, he felt a giant hand squeezing his air-pipes.

" GRK!"

" I'm not in a good mood today, no thanks to the Masked maniac over there...so be cooperative and I will not snap your neck!"

" I'm glad I'm not in your shoes, Bats...he will probably snap mine in a heartbeat"

however, the Echo-man didn't stay put as told as he tried to struggle.

" sigh should I knock him out ?"

" not necessary...I mean, his children might miss him…"

on that comment the Echo-man locked eyes with the maniac...fear evident in them.

" little Karim and Salwa won't be happy if something will to happen to their dear father...would they ?"

if he was afraid before...now he is terrified…

" release him…"

" huh ? I won't ! he will flee…"

" no he won't flee...unless he doesn't care about the safety of his family…if you understand put your hands on your head and take your feet off the pedals…"

he did so as told.

" good boy!...now step out the car"

he did again...figure's trembling...rage and fear filling his hushed voice…

" cough w-what do you want cough from me ?"

" we don't care about you nor your family, our only interest lies with your work...if you know what I mean"

realization showed on his face.

" but there's no royal artifacts left in Thebes's museum! Cough"

" we know...buuut Cairo's one does…" Buffalo side-hugged him no wonder to struggle him in a heartbeat if he tried anything funny.

eyes widened, drawing a dreadful conclusion…

" but how did you know ?! Even my co-workers don't know about that !" he was referring to being assigned as temporary lookout.

" the Jerboa told us" Buffalo for once spit the word 'Jerboa' with sarcasm than cobra venom.

" Jerboa ?"

" it doesn't matter now, we found a substitute for you, isn't that wonderful ? you can relax in an isolated oasis or something while we work hard to ensure nothing bad happens to the Golden Mask…"

" you won't get away with it! the pros and Salaam will be there-!"

" occupied with an angry Timon yes yes, no need for spoilers please !"

" wha-?"

" turn his lights off"

" gladly !"

BONK!

…

..
.

"so how do I look ?" Dehni took the mask that looked identical to the man's face...how he got his hands on one was confusing, yet not impossible considering nowadays's technologies.

The features where highly realistic to the real one.

" hmmm ? I don't want to bash your face as I normally wish I can so...it's pretty heck good of a disguise "

" now that's assuring...I will take the car and leaves...see you tomorrow...Mr. Journalist "

" hold your camels, what do I do with the rabbit-ears here ?"

" throw him in a cave 1 km away from the main road...with a water bottle, he should find his way back to the city some way or another…"

" huh ? That's nicer than I thought"

" well we should be thankful for his corporation otherwise how would the Phantoms get in without his help...anyway when you're done with him, check the idiots duo progress...and make sure the tranquilizer is injected in time otherwise Timon won't be very handful as a decoy"

" I will...this is our last operation together...you were a pain...AND I WILL NOT MISS YOU!...but a skilled strategist I can respect to a certain degree...good luck Jerboa"

" to you too Minotaur…"

VROOOM VROOM

" by the way...I have to ask...why didn't you mindlessly attack the car ?"

" and why would I do that ?"

" well because you know...it's red ?"

he didn't wait to see any reaction as he stomped the gas with full force…

" YOU BETTER HOPE I DON'T RECOGNIZE YOUR FACE TOMORROW !"

…

.

later Buffalo threw the Echo-man into a nearby abandoned coal mine...leaving a 1 liter bottle of water in the cave…

the moment you get back to the nearest citywe will be long gone with the treasure, but just to be sure you won't wake up early…

"...gh...ghhh...where am I ?"

" morning Count Dracula"

" WHO SAID THAT!" the Echo-man angrily shout around.

" ohh! I think I understand now why he loves taunting people"

" wha-? GAH!" he swiftly fall asleep...the Buffalo took the syringe from his back…

" ops ? Guess it's still high noon your Countess...good day then!"

he walked out…

Two hours later he met with Scrapy and Inventory...and they were looking worst for the wear…

" so the weasel didn't go easy on you two, eh ?"

their only response were death glares.

" pff, well look at the bright side...those so-called heroes are in for a treat tomorrow...all thanks to your efforts"

they looked between themselves before their glares morphed into wicked smirks.

" ohhh! They are ! The little critter hit like a truck"

" also an expert at sending people flying...where's Dehni ?"

" driving a Lamborghini to Cairo"

he was excepting a high-pitched 'WHAT?!' but the only response was a low…

" right…" they both meekly said as one.

" eh ? You two aren't surprised ?"

" what next he will do ? Welcome the Minister himself ?!" Scrapy sarcastically commented.

" well..he will be disguised as a hetero-morph with Bat-like ears sitting atop his head...probably among the welcoming squad too…"

" called it!"

" anyway...how long since you captured the vermin ?"

" it's been like 3 hours and a half if I recall correctly...being in a hibernate state in my body" Inventory answered.

" very well...listen up you two carefully to what I'm about to say…"

" yes sir!"

" tomorrow won't be easy like before...it's like entering a den of lions...one wrong move and it's over for us...understood ?"

" yes sir!"

" very well...so here's what we will do...you two along with me will be acting like journalists trying to get close to the Minister, as close as we can...once inside...Dehni will stay behind when they will reach the Golden Mask's section...then once we receive the signal in the form of a phone ringing...Inventory you will release the weasel while pretending to answer the phone call...okay ?"

" okay! I will keep it in hibernation state until the right moment !"

" good...once the chaos starts the pros will try to stop the weasel, that will be our chance to book it...between the rampaging animal and their fear for the Minister safety they will temporary disregard Dehni's sneaking with the mask…"

" umm, but how he will flee without getting noticed ? I mean we can still play innocent journalist after the chaos mayhem...but Dehni has no chance to not go unnoticed " Scrapy reminded his leader for why he was called 'Rust-brains' sometimes by Dehni...

" that's where he's teleportation device comes into play...the range of the teleportation is just around 500 to 700 meters, but still enough to flee the building...we will meet him in the 5th alley to the south...the one beyond the Almashawi's restaurant...got it ?" he felt there's a specific joke for why the maniac choose 'the grills restaurant' of all the available ones…

that bastard!

" yes sir!...once we are on the clear we will run there…"

no! no! I have to swallow it up! This is the last operation...we can't afford to make any mistakes...

-during the night-

" HAHAHAHAHAH!" the Coyotes Leader couldn't control his laughter as he furiously slammed his poor desk multiple times.

" eh ? Sir are you alright ?"

" ohhh! Hahaha! I couldn't feel better hearing about how ironic things are going !"

" ehhh...I don't think I'm following you sir"

" to make a long story short, the Bat-like brat that you returned to the cave he belongs to was also the one who ruined my chances years ago...it feels good knowing how not only he took him out of the picture but also used him of all the possible guardians"

" Oh! now that's ironic !hah!"

" anyway...about what you I told you early…"

" yeah, sir..."

" hmmm, if you four managed to pull it off tomorrow...rubbing it on the Minister's ugly face plus making the Echo-brat taking the blame for his incompetency ? That would be enough…"

" you mean!"

" yes, he already got me 4 out of 5 things I only dreamed of getting my hands on before...they have more worth to me than that little toy he has...plus if things go well tomorrow, I will feel like I was avenged...and that's more than enough to consider letting him be on his mere way, understand ?"

" yes sir! Thank you sir!" despite the continuous taunting he suffered through the past months, he felt a little bad about betraying the one responsible for their streak. So it was a little assuring knowing if they succeeded tomorrow he won't have to deal with his consciousness ranting.

" One last thing...may luck be on your side...dismissed"

" thank you sir!Bip"

-the showdown day-

crowds held back by iron bars many of them carried the country's flag, waving it around...police where standing along the bars to keep everyone in check.

Pros where standing by the sides of the road as the familiar Minister car approached...the man in question got out waving to the ecstatic people, before handshaking the Museum's director and of course Egypt's top...despite the awkward feeling of shaking a paper-thin hand...literally.

A group of journalists, both legit and disguised approached them...flashes of light immortalized their pose…

that ugly smile makes me want to vomit

Buffalo thought acridly, resisting the urge to spit on the ground…thankfully the duo besides him didn't share his problems...so he refocused his thoughts onto a more familiar bat-like guardian, hands behind his back and face shadowed by the hat he was wearing…

it wasn't long before the Minister's squad moved on with his escort consisting of his bodyguards plus the Museum's director, Salaam on his part preferred to stay on the entrance.

The journalists moved along, the trio tried their best to avoid any eye contact with the pro heroes or the policemen...once they approached the entrance two of the guardians blocked their way.

" sorry to bother you during your job, but will show us your journalist's cards please ?" the Bat-like guardian of all people spoke first.

Everyone did so...both of the guardians checked their cards swiftly…

" you may pass, sorry again for the trouble" the first eagle head-like guardian said before…

" hold it! You three...the Pyramid's journal activists...come here" the Bat-like guardian didn't...well…?..bat an eye even as the trio were sending him a telepathic message of "WHAT IN THE HELL ARE YOU DOING ?!"

and to make matters worst Salaam was looking towards them too...

" your cards" the Bat-like ordered.

" murmuring what the heck are you doing ?"

" I said your cards, please ?" he uncharacteristically didn't reply as he insisted displaying his hand and waiting for said items.

" is something's the matter ?" to make matters even more worst than before Salaam of all people approached them...the Eagle-head didn't except that.

" Ohhh! if it's not the number one hero! Big fan sir!" he held his hand for the shaking which was accepted by the pro...the other hand held the three cards he received before the pro butted in.

" ranks don't matter, what matters is working hard to ensure safety and peace for everyone"

" wise words sir" he replied whilst checking the last card, before handing them back...rivers of sweat were cascading from their bodies, especially when the number one was looking at them.

" Khafa others are waiting for us, are you done here ?"

" yeah, yeah, Ouka I didn't see their cards well so I had to double check…"

" sigh don't you trust my eyesight ?"

" I do but it won't hurt severing doubts"

" wise thinking mister Khafa, doubt is like a sword it may cut you if you don't handle it well"

" w-well, if everything is oka-"

" it is, you may enter"

…

..
.

" keep an eye on those three…" Salaam mysteriously ordered.

" I will sir...even if they could be only nervous"

Salaam held his gaze on their backs for a few seconds, before returning to the crows that were ecstatically screaming his name.

-inside-

the Minister with his escort and a bunch of journalists minus the trio squad where admiring a slab of stone with ancient hieroglyphs.

After being assured they aren't in earshot, the trio sent death glares at the maniac.

Their message was clear.

" cutting the doubt in front of your eyes...is better than restraining yourself to you chase it"

Dehni didn't drop his act as he continued in a 'professional' way.

The idiot duo may be looking at him confusingly but Buffalo didn't take long to understand the hidden message behind his words.

He was going to breath down our necks if you didn't do what you did…a smart but dangerous gamble

" indeed mister Khafa, being chained by your doubt isn't good for you nor theones around you, thanks for the wise words" a declaration that the message was received well.

again the duo were confused but one stern look from Buffalo sent a voiceless order of 'play along'

"your welcome mister Aejl"

…

..

.

a few moments later they joined the bunch of journalists with the Minister's escort now chatting about the museum's most new additions...some gold beetles here, some old jewelries there etc.

All was going well and according to the plan…

and at last there it is…

" ...and most precious item on display sir is none other than the famous young King's golden mask…" the director stepped aside allowing the Minister to take a closer look at it…

" yes, I can see the talent in it's craftsmanship...such valuable treasures will help in tourism and in turn the economy of our nation, I do hope it's guarded well"

" oh! It is sir! I assure you, this building have the best and latest security system rivaling that of even world-class prisons, there's nothing that can enter without our notice "

exaggeration.

For once the four thieves shared a simple brain cell.

" I'm assured to hear that...now then I believe there's still a few other things to check before I proceed to my next station"

" yes sir! The archaeologists discovered a new grave in the valley of kings...one with a very interesting story...this way please…" the director's humble comment was like the cue for Dehni.

Thankfully the trio continued walking with the escort without second thoughts...as for him he stopped a few moments after them…

the protocol is about 15 minutes usually...and it's been 10 minutes since they entered...I need extra time otherwise things are going to get messy.

" is something the matter Khafa ?" the eagle-like man turned to stare at him weirdly.

Perfect timing.

" yes Ouka, I believe we may have...company…follow me." he ordered without a second moment.

" muttering w-wait! we can't just wonder off! We have a protocol to keep up with"

" we are guardians, our top priority is to ensures this building's security...besides…" he turned to face the now juggling eagle-man.

" what will our comrades say if a rat slipped through us of all people...of course this fortress's reputation is a top priority too"

" you and your convincing speech...always gets me…" the eagle-man smirked recalling back their memories together.

" come on Bald-head, we have a critter to deal with"

" I outgrown that nicknam- SHHT!"

" 'patrol, this is watch-room, the Minister's is on the 6th section to the east, and you're going to the northern 4th ' "

" watch-room, this is patrol,we have a situation...I believe it's nothing serious but we have to check just to be sure" Dehni's act was very convincing.

"...I have to agree with my friend here, if he says there's something off then we have to check it. He's extraordinary hearing didn't fail us before"

" I already saw the 4th section rooms, there's nothing extraordinary there and the quirk-sensors aren't detecting anything"

" but sir even Thebes's museum didn't detect any quirk activity inside because I unfortunately wasn't there"

" I second him, first day as a trainee and he already managed to warn them about a possible attack"

"...sigh alright patrol, but hurry up and if something happens call for backup"

" roger that/roger that SHHT!"

" thanks pal I own ya" the fake guardian's gratefulness was well practiced as if it was natural.

" don't mention it...we are doing our job after all"

…

..
.

some moments later they were in a storage room full of card-boxes.

" the nose did come from here...yet I don't see anything weird"

" must be hiding something, keep your guard up…"

" yeow! something crawled up my leg!"

" huh ? Ohhh it's just a cockroach...that must be the one causing noises"

" whew...and would you look at that ? there's a lot of the—GAH!"

a swift hit on the feathered head sent him to dreamland.

" sorry mate, but you need to go to sleep for now"

thankfully the card-boxes hid the cameras…

...he didn't waste anytime hurrying out of the storage room.

It's being around 15 minutes…

when he saw the entrance with a bunch of journalists leaving he knew time was nearing up.

" SHHT patrol this is watch-room, where's your eagle friend ?"

Dehni did wait a few seconds before replying.

" watch-room this is patrol, my friend found a mess of card-boxes in the room we were checking so he volunteered to clean it"

just a little more…

Dehni sneakingly took out he's phone...dialing a certain number…

" card-boxes ? But that storage room isn't part of our protocol ?"

" nor I'm"

" wha-?"

distant screaming could be heard as Dehni's somehow unlocked the numerical lock on the Golden Mask glass, which in turn

VOOMMMAAAT VOOMMMAAT

sent the alarms for a loop.

" SHHT EMERGENCY ! EMERGENCY ! WE HAVE A-!"

" ETHEREAL ASTROLABE : TELEPORT!"

a flash of light then nothing was left, no Golden Mask, no Impostor…

-meawhile-

" AHHH !"

gusts of winds have blown people left and right, the trios included...the pros tried to subdue the rabid Meerkat but to no avail as he's frame and agility where an unusual problem…

the policemen led the spooked crowds to a safer distance from the mayhem, the Minister and his escort already book it.

The pros who weren't blown away where trying to cover for the crowd's escape as Salaam was driving the Meerkat's attention away…

unfortunately for the number one, his weight this time is disadvantageous as each barrage of wind is threatening to send him flying for the Nile.

"muttering this is our chance to slipper away...slowly but surely make your way among the crowds !" the Buffalo order and the two did so...little by little they managed to hide behind an alley some blocks away from the main event of the day.

" DON'T LET IT ESCAPE !" a sudden shout made them flinch in their spots as they glued their backs to the side...thankfully it wasn't their cover who was blown...but the cars getting in the way of a runaway angry Meerkat.

After the pros passed by, they took no second glances as they hurried for the after-mentioned meeting place…

to none surprise Dehni was in his masked attire, sitting on a trash can and holding a very eye-catching mask…

" You did it, you crazy Jerboa!" Buffalo couldn't believe it nothing the less he started walking towards him while his companions who breathed a sigh of relief, started happily dancing like the idiots they are.

" I couldn't thought you were this sly fox!" Buffalo commented happily.

" nor did I" the trio stiffened...as a very unwelcome and very familiar voice ringed in the air...they didn't need to look towards the source as their ever-smiling maniac addressed him casually.

" if it isn't Salaam, how did the wild goose chase go ?"

" so that was your doing ! I knew something was off the moment I saw your faces ! you didn't even act like journalists at all!" Salaam angrily shout as he threateningly approached them carefully.

He must be wary of the trick I did before...closing the distance between us so he can strike before I can do that 'trick' huh ?

" yeah, you're right...journalists especially the Pyramids ones would never miss the chance to scoop such a rare event...I mean not everyday you read about...a wall paper Pharaoh fighting an air-bender Timon" Dehni's mentioned to the trio to follow him...they did so facing the hero and slowing mimicking their comrade by backing away from him.

The pharaoh was approaching at the same pace too…he didn't appear fazed by the insult.

he can't chase us and leave a dangerous animal to roam the city...must saw his disadvantage, left the job for someone more suitable and came for us instead…

Dehni noticed the reason he found them so fast.

" unfortunately that wouldn't be the case...it will be more like...from Phantoms to Ghosts !"

" and what's the difference ?" Inventory asked confusedly earning side glances from his companions.

" Phantoms are free roamers, Ghosts normally stick to one place" Buffalo clarified.

" Ohhh! so he meant we will be jailed Phantoms, like Ghosts ! clever sir!"

since he's pretty fast and others are busy...I guess reinforcements won't come anytime soon...I only need to find a way to deal with him-!

during the useless comment of Inventory, Dehni tried to formulate a plan...but the Papyrus hero spared him no time, as he was forced to duck, a millisecond later he could feel a very thin fist hovering where his head was.

And it didn't end there…as he was sent flying!

CRASH!

" GHH!"

" JERBOA !" Buffalo shouted angrily, before trying to uppercut the papyrus-man, as excepted it ended up in failure, Salaam dodged swing after swing.

" YOU BASTARD! " Scrapy's iron coated hands joined the Bullhead's assault, yet they couldn't land a solid hit on the paper-like hero...nor he was trying to subdue them first…his eyes were focused on the downed masked man and the one besides him appeared to be checking on on his state…

" muttering absorbed the Golden Mask!" Dehni's whispered to Inventory, the later only hesitated for a moment before doing so…

then he quickly stood, his partner nervously eyeing the brawl…

he's fast and thin, but all we need is to restrain him for a few moments…that's it!

Dehni quickly reached for his Astrolabe...taking it out from somewhere ?

The action didn't go unnoticed because somehow the papyrus-man's eyes widened nervously.

the troublesome one isstill conscious ! if I don't knock him out they will flee like before !

as if understanding the paper-man's fooled thoughts Dehni barked an order.

" BUFFALO ! SCRAPY ! ATTACK ME!"

a second of puzzled pause, was all what the number one needed to obey the order he wasn't meant to follow.

He accelerated through the air, not caring about any aerodynamic laws...a fist already outstretched as a gift for all the troubles his masked nemesis has done so far.

You ate the bait!

Dehni swiftly shoved Inventory's frame in front of him.

" wha-?!"

" !" the number one was so surprised by the quick action he didn't have enough time to stop, the momentum of his acceleration did him no favors.

" ACTIVATE YOUR QUIRK!"

as if it was by instinct he did so...the paper-fist now sunk in Inventory's chest.

It wasn't a perfect restrain, because he pulled out his fist as if it was plunged into a muddy quicksand.

But that did give the already alerted Buffalo and Scrapy the perfect chance to attack.

However that wasn't enough, Salaam twisted his frame so fast he managed to propel the poor Inventory towards his comrades, the force sent them a few feet away and also knocked the Astrolabe from Dehni's hands.

" SALAAM!" new voices ringed in the air as three pros joined the party.

" great timing ! Take care of those three while I handle this one !" he ordered them, and they obeyed so by blocking the entrance and eyeing the trio like hungry hyenas.

I might have miscalculated Timon's endurance…no...these are his sidekicks !

" it's over for you why don't you come quietly, Phantom! " Salaam didn't spare him any second thoughts as he already backed him into a corner where he can't get to his precious device without getting through him first.

Yeesh, this is the worst case scenario I should have anticipated…

Salaam continued marching towards, no wonder trying to find a swift strike chance.

What to do ? What to do ? Can't take on him while the others are busy, and catching him off guard won't work twice...plus even if I had the E.A (Ethereal Astrolabe) with me, I can't use the teleport trick until another three days...and I'm sure their Boss won't be happy if I left them here…

he rose his hands.

" does that mean you're surrendering ?" Salaam asked curiously.

He lowered them before clenching them as fists.

" of course no! After all, true defeat isn't in failing...but in losing hope of success"

" wise words coming from a vile mouth, but they won't help you now nor after, it's over villain!"

BA BUM!

he felt a sudden heartbeat unlike anything normal…

perfect timing!

" Oh~? I won't be so sure about that, after all I haven't even show you my own Quirk"

" huh ?! " Salaam's expression might not have showed it...but he was surprised when objects around from trash containers to old bricks...all were hovering in the air as if guided by some force...the show startled even his sidekicks…

the trio squad weren't an exception too.

" telekinesis ?!" Salaam on his part regained his demeanor, he tried to attack but two thrash containers blocked the way before being expelled towards him…there was not the tiniest gaps between them he could exploit to avoid them...nor enough reaction time…

" GAH!" the only option left was to guard, which resulted in him being crushed into his stunned comrades who tried to help him…

the trio squad's shock continued when they were flying now...before gently being placed into a roof top...just above the alley's dead end…

" RUN ! NOW IS NOT THE TIME FOR QUESTIONS !"

it took them three seconds before hesitatingly running away at full speed.

" I WON'T LET YOU GET AWAY!" a sidekick with what looks like an arm-canon and a flying jet pack shouted...maneuvering through the objects in the air, like it was nothing.

" I don't think so, pal!" he was suddenly propelled to a nearby wall, jet pack first…

" wha-?! GAH!" before becoming canned human...as a thrash container was shoved over his figure swallowing him whole, and closing tightly. Before being throw to the grown.

CRASH!

" YOU BASTARD !"

two others recovered from the previous impact...the number one was also recovering…

I just need to buy them time…five more minutes is enough…

" you two I will handle him, go after the others ! we can't let them escape!"

Salaam's ordered but they tried to protest, however one stern look sent them running.

" never excepted a wall paper to express so much facial emotions in one day"

Dehni casually insulted, objects still hovering around him…

the other pros must still be dealing with that Quirk animal…I need to keep him here until they show up…Salaam thought about a strategy.

" nor did I think you had a powerful telekinesis quirk…" he concluded that talking is the only way to gain time right now...before he recover anyway…

" you didn't ? that's not surprising considering our last encounter...you probably thought I had some sort of flash-stunning quirk " Dehni continued in the same tone...to Salaam's surprise.

He's not attacking ? But why ? A drawback perhaps ? No if that was the case the objects won't be floating around, so what is holding him back ?...unless!

before he could even think of any possibilities the masked Phantom address a certain issue.

" I wonder if the jet pack of your sidekick works underwater...it will be a shame if someone throw him into the Nile, wouldn't it ?"

" I WON'T LET YOU!" Salaam's rage took over him as he disregarded his previous thoughts. Running to get the Masked Phantom.

" that was a bad move, king !" Dehni said before rising lazily his right hand.

Salaam's speed may have faltered but he still managed to dodge all the objects that were thrown into him…

he was a dozens feet away from delivering a satisfying punch to the vile villain…

" checkmate."

FWWT! CRAAAASHH!

" GAH!"

" if you just looked above instead of rushing recklessly you may have landed a punch on me...too bad, you heroes have standards that makes you blind to just thinking in critical moments…"

CLANG! CLANG!

the hero wasn't giving up.

" well this is my cue to RUN! BYE!" thankfully Salaam thin frame wasn't built to deal with layers of strengthened iron…

-back to present-

"not only he managed to get the last of the artifacts as told, but also managed to escape Salaam for the second time...plus…"

the Coyotes leader could recall his last personal encounter with the 'Phantom thief' as if it was yesterday…and not 5 months ago…

-flashback-

such splendid news made the Boss of the Coyotes consider throwing a celebration...in the form of sending their 'co-worker' away personally.

Shortly after the incident, news of what happened spread like wildfire on a dry forest...and both police and pro heroes in all of Egypt were trying their best to find the Phantoms…

it was probably the Minister trying to save his image after realizing he was mere inches away from one of the top thieves in his country…

which only made the Boss smirk farther…

" we will be there in 10 minutes sir!" the pilot of his personal helicopter informed him.

" good, I have a busy schedule to keep up with" despite the annoyed tone he made, he was a little enthusiastic to meet the Phantom.

The meeting place they agreed on is a famous nomadic tribe current resting place…

to the public eye it's none other than the Naga's tribe...desert survivalists that lives on camels milk and what the lands offer…

to him it was the Ultimate Hideout for his 'Desert Coyotes', no one will suspect a bunch of poor, traditional, country side people to be the famous burglars capable of breaking into the most secure high-end facilities in Egypt…

but they couldn't further that reputation without the help of a certain Masked Phantom...siting on a carpet and drinking tea with three others ?

" Ahhh, what do you call this plant again ?" the now no more masked brat asked the Minotaur besides him.

" we call it Malwiza, grown through the Nile's shores"

" Ahem…" the Boss tried getting their attention...all of the faux tribe members looked tense like soldiers inspected by a general...except for the four of them...

" ohh!...Male Giza? That's a weird name thou *Sipping* still nerves calming !"

either it's super effective or the taunting attitude has finally rubbed on the trio.

" the first cup and I'm not correcting hisnot so unintentional mistake, yup it's very effective *Sipping* " Scrapy was looking calmer than usual.

" Cough Cough !" the Boss tried to gain their attention again by coughing with prestige…it's not very effective…

the faux member tribes were looking frantically between a now reddening mafia Boss and the current talk of the public.

" it goes well with the goat's butter in Hinta's bread...*Sipping*" Inventory took out a glass bottle of white yellow butter, putting it besides a very empty and cleaned one...the look of betrayal in his comrades eyes said they didn't except he was hiding it…

they were about to throw a new tantrum, which was just the opportunity for the Boss to announce his presence.

" I'm glad your enjoying your time, young men...but I'm afraid I don't have all day…"

" B-BOSS !" Scrapy begun, the tea cup in his hands shaking nervously.

" WH-WHEN DID GOT HERE !?" and Buffalo wasn't less surprised.

" S-SO G-gOOD TO SEE YOU DOING WELL S-SIR !" Inventory added to the usual and excepted reactions of the trio.

But he wasn't very interested in them...more into the one still sipping tea without a care in the world.

So this is the arch-nemesis of Salaam ? The great strategist that shamed the most secure facilities in Egypt ?…he's smaller that I thought.

" *Sipping* ahhh, why don't you join us Boss ? The job is done and we should throw a party"

Dehni casually and for once politely requested.

" HEY! SHOW SOME RESPECT FOR ONCE !" the trio, the pilot and the faux tribe members roared as one in perfect unison.

" relax boys, I'm in good mood today...all thanks to you four's effort...especially you... "

" muttering I think this is the first time I hears the boss addressing someone as Mister" the trio murmured between themselves.

" owww~ you're making me blush...but I can't take all the credit...without these three I would have probably ended up in prison" there was no tone of sarcasm in his voice as he pointed towards the trio, who flinched slightly when the Boss turned his gaze on them.

" is that so ? Well great job everyone...and the Mask ?"

the Minotaur man presented the precious artifact to his Master, he cupped it with his gloved hands eyeing it with greed.

" I've being dreaming on getting this one for so long...and you four made my dream comes true...so you all will get a hefty reward for your splendid work."

the trio smiled happily while Dehni refused, earning shocked and questioning gazes.

" I have to decline...our deal was about delivering the ancient relics and I did as told...now I will be in my way" he stood up without a second thought before preparing to march away.

" may you wait a moment ?" he gave the Mask to his pilot telling him to put it safely in the helicopter before addressing the Phantom.

" yes, Boss ? I do hope there will be no 'rivalry' between us" it was a warning, nor a hidden challenge to try…

he just wants to go...his business here is done both literally and metaphorically.

" oh! I assure you, that's not what I wants to say...the lions are still looking for the Coyotes…"

the Boss meant the pros and police are still looking for us and that includes you.

" I assure you...lions are no match for 'foxes' when it comes to hiding…"

'you might be good at hiding but I'm better at trickery huh ?'

the Boss concluded, yet that didn't prevent him from asking what was bugging his mind all these months.

" very well then...but don't you really wants a reward ? Or did you already found the 'special someone' you were looking for ?"

" sigh unfortunately I'm sure there's no such one in this country...but since you asked I do have two favors if you'd like to listen ?" the disappointment was evident in his voice...it's an emotion even the trio didn't hear often from him.

" I'm listening…go on" the curiosity of the Boss picked up a little.

" first isn't actually a favor but a simple question...where can I find the besthero in the world ?"

his expression morphed into a serious one, even his the trio squad looked surprised by that...he only showed such gesture when the situation was not a laughing matter.

" that's actually a tricky question...there's many who can be labeled as 'best' but it all depends on 'what' best we're talking about here…" the Boss reply was honest as he demanded more details.

" hmmm, I think best in my opinion is...someone who is really respected worldwide...very unusually strong...a person who has the most impact on today's global society...is there anyone with those characteristics ?"

" hmmm...I believe there's two who fit the bell...while others lack in some place or another...those two are, America's number heroine, Star. The other one is considered the Symbol of peace...and the strongest hero in the world...Japan's number one hero, All Might" the Boss could see the urge to facepalm in the maniac's dark ruby eyes.

" *muttering* sigh so I was right...it's Japan" Dehni muttered darkly.

" and what about of your second request ?" feeling more curious now, the Boss wanted to hear about his other demand.

" I was just wondering if you can afford a one-way voyage for...Japan" now he was back at smiling...rubbing sheepishly his head...as if embarrassed by the request.

"...hmmm...that's a simple request" having many connections and average wealth stacked away comes with it's benefits.

" thank you sir" this time the mocking was back as the Phantom saluted like a soldier.

" departing will be by tomorrow morning, at dawn...pack your bags, I will send someone to escort you" feeling a headache on the way if he stayed, the Boss didn't take his time to retreat...leaving a little sour mood hanging in the air…

" so...this is it...our last time together…" Scrapy didn't believe it.

"finally, I never thought this moment will come" nor did Inventory.

"…" Buffalo was solemnly silent.

" well, it's wasn't an honor meeting you three...but a fun time nothing the less...so, no hard feelings ?"

" I for one don't like the way you treated us like baits or decoys...but I was touched when you saved us"

" me too, I will always cherish that heroic moment...event if we are the villains here"

"sigh I hated every time you compared me into a Bull...or a cow...or an animal...or a Minotaur! But...over time I learned to sulk it...however, with time I learned to accept my nature...and not force myself to believe I'm something else...so, thanks I guess"

the Minotaur held his hands for the shake.

Which were accepted in kind.

" ju~st for the record, for a thief you aren't a very bad person...in fact you are a very good leader...Thawr…"

" did he just use myactual code-name ?"

" he just did.../he just did…"

I have wasted time in this country...but I got stronger in turn faster than I thought...heh! Things are going to get interesting...beware, Japan...for a Phantom is coming to haunt you!

-6 months ago, Japan-

it was a normal routine in his humble office...everything was calm and quiet...as he was studying strange cases that were happening in other cities...nothing out of the ordinary...until.

" Tsukauchi! Tsukauchi! we have bad news! the last artifact was stolen !"

Sansa burst in panic holding a report paper shakily.

" it can't be! Already ?!" Tsukauchi dropped his work and snatched the paper from his co-officer's hands.

…

" this is really not good, what about the search team ?" after reading the content his dread escalated;

" they resumed their work after 15 days of the accident...the response was...was...TSK" Sansa couldn't continue...but there was no need as Tsukauchi already drew a conclusion.

" negative...I thought so, we don't even know if the DNA alteration are not truly gone…"

" what we are going to do now ? The last hope is gone !" Sansa volunteered before to take the kid in as his own...but he refused with logical reasoning...

" sigh staying with the Midoriyas was a temporary procedure...now that we know a lot of things we can't leave him in their care...it's unsafe for both...we need a specialist, more capable person that can guard him most of the time…" Tsukauchi cupped his chin thinking of different possibilities.

" a pro hero ? " it didn't take a genius to know that policemen aren't cut for such a duty.

Tsukauchi already discussed the issue with All Might three months ago...upon which the pro hero told him any radical changes in his current lifestyle will have a negative effect in his chances to get accepted into a hero school.

They agreed upon a very good plan…they won't disturb Maruchi with any news during his training period...instead…

" yes, I think the best procedure is to wait for him to finish the entrance exams of a hero school"

he heard his determination to enter U.A. , which is not impossible but not easy either...in case of failure he already applied in his place for other schools…

the good thing about U.A. is their exams are the earliest of all...giving chance for everyone to participate…

and leaving a room for those who fail to try their luck in other schools…

" very well...then let's wait" was all what Sansa could muster.

-the present-

" the sign shows that the writing exams part is in classroom 3-B for group 1-D…which group are you in Izuku ?"

" group 4-C, in classroom 2-A…"

" well good luck little brother, I'm sure you will do fine...gulp as opposite to me…"

" I-I-I'm sure you will do well too! good luck big brother"

" thanks see ya after the exams!" Maruchi said heading for his classroom...Midoriya doing the same.

You will need more than mere luck to pull this off.

Oh! come on don't be a pessimist ! how hard the questions will be ?

…

..

.

OMG! is this exam from Mars or something ?!

a multi-choice answer type...-4 as penalty for a wrong answer...+1 for a correct answer...if this was a video game the difficulty will be labeled as brutal

so long U.A. it was nice setting foot in your grounds…

…

..
.

-U.A. High School Hero Course Exam Orientation-

" h-hey aniki...are you alright ?"

" I-I'm alright, Izuku...I'm alright" the waterfall of tears said otherwise.

They entered the Orientation place...heading for their respective seats…

" woah! This stadium is huge!"

" su-sugoi! I thought U.A.'s will be something but this is on a whole different level…"

" muttering so the exam isn't the only thing that blow the mind"

it's just a world-class football Stadium-like auditorium in a school, why are you in so much awe ?

Sensei, sarcasm won't lift my broken spirit.

Well what do you want me to do ? I have no glue here nor a rope.

Okay just shut up...that will help a LOT!.

I wonder if answer number 4 in question number 35 was a wise decision...never heard of 'rescue procedure when there's a wildfire circulating a countryside village' scenario.

Sensei…

also do you think we should have picked answer 2 in question 19 instead of 1 ? 'best choice in case of hostage being held by a villain using it to escape'

Sensei!

And not to mention the last one, I mean how can you calculate the velocity of 'falling debris from the tenth floor while we know that the speed of sound is 300 meters per second'

hey! You just made the last one up!

yes I did...now what's the answer ? +5 for a correct one, -20 for a wrong one, and -50 if you don't provide a logical explanation

it's a good thing you're not the corrector.

alright, joke time is over...one last thing, I did a double check on how you performed...it was wise answering 66.1% with a certainty of 90%

but I didn't answer all...and others must have done better…I do wish them good luck thou…

you did what you can and there's also the practical exam left...you have the requirements to be a hero so don't give up hope.

Thanks…

Maruchi and Midoriya took a seat besides a very irritated Bakugo…

BAP BAP BAP

suddenly the once dim auditorium was illuminated by a bunch of ceiling lights.

" For all of you examinee listeners turning in…"

huh ? This voice! Could it be!

above the stage where a very large screen displaying the school's logo, stood a man with long blond hair, headphones, and a microphone-like neck support or something…

" welcome to my show today!" his famous catch phase left no doubt on whom he was.

I-I-I-IT'S PRESENT MIC IN THE FLESH!

Fan-mode activate !

wait, what ?

" Everybody say 'hey' !" an ecstatic smile followed by listening in gesture for a response.

" HEY!" thankfully he wasn't left in awkward silence as a certain purple haired kid replied with the same level if not higher enthusiasm.

" now that's an energetic response, good listener !" the DJ hero complained before quickly recalling why he was there in the first place.

" then I'll quickly present to you the rundown on the practical exam!" he then stroke one of his renowned poses with a shout of "Are you ready ?"

" YEAH!"

" YEAH!"

strange, did they just share a single brain cell or I'm just imagining things ?

this fool-play is grating my nerves ! Bakugo was getting more annoyed and angrier than usual by each passing second, and not only from Maruchi's fan-mode.

It's a good thing you aren't on par with the original Heroes admirer.

True because at least silent stares are less creepy and more importantly less irritating than :

" it's the Voice Hero, Present Mic! Sugo~ii! I listen to him every week on the radio! I'm so moved! All the teachers at U.A. are pro heroes ! " Midoriya's murmurs.

This normally will made Bakugo snap with a shout of 'DIE' but today he wasn't caring about the broccoli head's nonsense.

"As it says in the application requirements, you listeners will be conducting ten-minutes mock urban battles after this" the DJ hero begin the explanation as the screen behind him displayed a few squares with different colors and letters connecting into a single bigger rectangle with the Kanji for 'You are Here'.

" you can bring whatever you want with you, After the presentation, you'll head to the specified battle center, okay ?!"

specified battle center ?

Check your application paper.

Battle center F ? is the 'F' for Fantastic?

Could be also for Failure.

SHUT UP!

"in other words, they won't let you work with your friends, huh ?" Bakugo said pointing out the fact that the three of them are assigned to different battle centers.

" Y-you're right, even though our examiner numbers are consecutive we're assigned to different battle centers " Midoriya's test location is battle center B, Bakugo's A…

" Don't look, I'll kill you" Bakugo threatened angrily, whilst Midoriya flinched back.

" Damn, now I can't crush you!" Bakugo continued his ranting.

Seems like he's still a jerk even after 10 months.

" Three different types of faux villains are stationed in each battle center, you earn points for each of them based on their level of difficulty" the screen now displayed an urban area like city with 3 shadowed strange figures along side it...each with a number and P above it.

Wait a minute ? Is that 3 points holding rocket launchers in it's back ?!

hmmm ? Considering the reputation of this school ? Yup! Definitely rocket launchers...no wonder the acceptance rate is very low...you need to be a war machine to get accepted.

" Your goal, dear listeners, is to use your Quirks to earn points by immobilizing-"

immobilizing ?

Read pulverizing in our case.

Oh!

"—the faux villains" the screen now displayed a Present Mic avatar defeating said villains…

will Izuku be okay ? He didn't have the chance to test One for All yet.

He was preparing for 10 months...earned the strongest Quirk we heard of, plus if anything might go wrong, wouldn't All Might told him before hand ?

I know, I know...but it's just I have this funny feeling of unease…

don't worry the kid is smart he will probably take a minute to figure out how to use it...then he will Detroito-smashing the poor scrap buckets for the remaining nine minutes.

A full minute ? Sensei you're underestimating him!

Before his Sensei could replied the DJ hero reminded the examinees of a very important rule and standard for heroes.

" Of course, attacking other examinees and any other anti-heroic actions are prohibited !"

that might be a problem...One for All is devastatingly powerful, if he's not careful he might accidentally hurt someone badly.

That's a cause for con-

" may I ask a question ?" one of the examinees stood up.

" Okay!" the DJ hero answered, light illuminated the asking figure.

" On the printout, there are four types of villains, if that is a misprint, then U.A. , the most prominent school in Japan, should be ashamed of that foolish mistake."

that aura! That attire ! could it be ?

Huh ? What is it Sensei ?

He reminds me of someone

SOMEONE!

yeah…a lawyer!

…

what ? He really looks ready to sue the DJ hero and the entirety of U.A.

Sensei...it's not nice to say that about someone we don't know well!

" We examinees are here in this place because we wish to be molded into exemplary heroes!"

see ?

SENSEI! I told you it's not nice to say something about someon-

" in addition, you over there with the curly hair-"

huh ?

Midoriya pointed to himself.

" you've been muttering this whole time! It's distracting !"

well, he's not wrong...Izuku muttering was a bit distract-

" If you're here on a pleasure trip, then you should leave immediately !"

oh! boy!

" I'm sorry…" Midoriya cupped his mouth in shame.

" OI!" the sudden shout got the whole stadium attention...even Bakugo's

" I understand that my little Brother ranting can be an irritating itch in the back of your mind! and I deeply apologize in his stead, however…"

?

a spark appeared to be coming from his hair, said hair seemed to be...slightly turning yellow ?

" pleasure trip ? Leave immediately ? Firstly you don't know how much sweet, blood and tears he shed just to prepare for a chance to get into U.A., I assure you, despite his antics he consider this no mere trip...secondly a judge shouldn't issue his last decision without seeing all the perspective of both parties, so don't order people around, Mister Lawyer "

L-Lawyer ?!

M-Maruchi ?

Pff! Nice one Tokage !

The only response from the glasses teen was a satisfying silence...probably because he realized his mistake, as he turned his attention back to the DJ hero.

That wasn't a nice thing to say...apologize to him after the exams finish.

But he's the-!

NO BUTS!

hmph! fiiiine !

" Okay, Okay, Examinee Number 2233 and 7111, thanks for the life lesson and the message"

the DJ thankfully silenced the crowd before it turns into an Ace Attorney scene.

The screen displayed the last shadow.

" the fourth type of villains is worth zero points, that guy is an obstacle, so to speak, there's one in every battle center, it's an obstacle that will go crazy in narrow spaces, it's not impossible to defeat, but there's no reason to defeat it, either"

zero points ? Obstacle ? No reason to defeat it ? Hmmmm…

Sensei ? What's wrong…

he didn't replied as he observed the running avatar in the screen…

" I recommend that you listeners try to avoid it…"

" thank you very much...sorry for the interruption" the glasses teen thanked the pro before sitting back.

" I see, it's like the obstacles you avoid in video games, huh ?" one of the examinees said to his friend.

" the whole thing is a video game" the other replied.

video game, huh ?...it's far from that...this is an exam...a test...a simulation of the real thing…

Sensei...did you notice something ?

His Sensei didn't reply again…

"that's all from me, finally I'll give you listeners a present, our school motto!" the DJ hero continued.

this is a hero test, not a video game…so when you're out there act like you're in a real life battle with more than just points in the line...that's all I will tell you, the rest is on you.

...alright...I will, thanks again Sensei!

" Go beyond ! PLUS ULTRA!"

school logo displayed in the giant screen

go beyond...plus ultra huh ?...I like the sound of that.

" alright everyone, good luck!"

-Battle Center B-

it's t-time to do it, it's time to give everything I got from my training with All Might these past ten months…

Midoriya was nervously shaking…doubts crippled his mind...

I will become, the hero I always dreamed of being!

SLAP!

but he slapped his cheeks and those doubts away.

-battle center F-

HOW DID THIS HAPPEN ?

now is not the time for questions we have an exam to ace!

" GOOOO!"