Hey, guys. BD, here, with another installment of 'A Schnee's Holiday.' In this chapter, Izuku and the newly formed members of the Dekusquad are en route to Mirko's hideout. Meanwhile, Sansa, All Might and Jacques are meeting with Endeavor at his hero agency. Later, a revelation from Willow comes with a consequence. Misadventures and mishaps will occur. Enjoy!
Izuku blinked rapidly when seeing rain pelting the windows. According to the weatherman on the radio on his way to see Joan, there was a zero chance of rain in the Musutafu area.
Hawks turned on his windshield wipers as the rain became heavier. The rhythmic swish of the blades matched Izuku's steady heartbeat as he, Joan, and Hawks traveled the countryside on their way to Mirko's hideout.
They were now an hour into their destination. The view of the mountainous landscape and winding roads cloaked in a veil of mist and mystery. On the surface, things appeared normal. Joan was on her phone texting, presumably Mirko as she was anticipating their arrival. Hawks was nodding to the beat of the soft jazz playing on the radio. Izuku was situated in the backseat. His face sitting on the cold, hard glass of the window, feeling the rain pelting the window as they traveled to parts unknown.
Joan put her phone down and glanced at the window, watching as the rain-drenched field blurred past. "Alright, we're set. Just had to get Izuku approved for clearance."
"That's good news," responded Hawks as he kept focus on the road.
"I just hope Mirko's place is as secluded as they say. We don't want any unwanted visitors showing up." Izuku said, finally speaking up. "I don't want to turn a blind eye and I see a scorned mother and her daughters standing over me."
"Don't worry, Izuku. Mirko's hideout is well-hidden and heavily fortified. No one will find us there." Hawks said, displaying confidence in his voice. "Don't underestimate my colleague. I've known this girl for years, well, all of my life. She's the type of girl who can get anyone out of a tight spot."
"I can't say the same, Hawks sir," interjected Izuku. "The very person who I thought I could trust sold me out. Who's to say that she wouldn't do the same?"
"I can't speak for Toshinori but I can speak for Rumi. You'll be safe."
His mind was swirling with thoughts of the Schnee family and the dangers they posed. The raindrops tapping against the car's roof sounded like an ominous drumbeat, amplifying his anxiety. He was in disbelief — the man who he looked at as his mentor, his hero, his surrogate father sold him out to the Schnee family. He was at a loss of words. Why would a man who called himself the Symbol of Peace failed to protect someone who was in utter danger?
Hawks glanced at Izuku through the rearview mirror, his expression reassuring. "Mirko may seem rough around the edges, but she's one of the most trustworthy allies we have. She's been in the hero business for a long time and knows how to keep secrets hidden. You'll be safe with her."
"Yeah," said Joan, concurring with the winged hero. "I know I was joking earlier about my mentor and roommate, but you're in safe hands." She turned around to face him, showing a sense of confidence. She reached over and took his hand, rubbing it affectionately. "I know words aren't enough, Izuku. We wouldn't come out of our way if we didn't think this was a big deal. You have people that want to help you. So, please, give us a chance."
He supposed that she was right. His resources were limited and she didn't have to assist him. Izuku took a big breath, allowing their way to sink in.
"Okay," he said. His eyes darted to the floor. "Do you think my mother will be okay?"
Izuku hasn't spoken to his mother since this morning at breakfast. The poor, naive woman probably didn't have a clue about her own son's duress. Oftentimes, he envied his mother's naivete — convinced that her surrogate sister would look after him and treat him fairly like her own children. Who knew what kind of lies they were spouting in her ear.
"I wouldn't be concerned about that right now," said Joan. "That's not fair, I'm sorry."
"That's okay. You don't know my mother well enough to understand where I'm coming from."
Hawks intervened. "Speaking introspectively, the Schnee's wouldn't do anything that would place harm on your loved ones. That's bad for business, considering what they have at stake."
"I know Auntie won't harm Mom. What I am scared of is what she is telling her."
"A mother's heart knows when their child is in danger," said Hawks as he continued driving. "Even if she is being told one thing, the heart and soul will tell another. Don't worry about her, a mother knows, just relax for the time being."
Despite his lingering doubts, he found comfort in their unwavering support. Joan put herself in the position of risking herself to aid Izuku. Considering the fact that he and Joan both shared mutual acquaintances with the Schnee daughters, he had to find that admirable.
"What's the end game?" Izuku asked, his eyes searching for reassurance in the hero's steely gaze. "I can't just hide for the rest of my life. How are we going to stop the Schnee family?"
Hawks let out a sigh, his expression grave. "Izuku, this is going to be a tricky situation. The Schnee family is not to be underestimated. They're powerful, influential, and they've got resources at their disposal that make them formidable opponents."
"It seems hard to believe. Granted, they are crooked like politicians but I can't see myself saying that they are similar like Dabi or Gigantomachia."
"Villains aren't just what we face everyday or what we read in comic books. Villains come in all shapes and forms. Unlike what we face in which they want to take over the world, these villains want to take something precious from you," said Hawks. "Just because they don't have a moniker doesn't make them exempt from being a villain."
Joan leaned forward, her brow furrowed with concern. "But we can't just sit back and let them take advantage of Izuku. There has to be something we can do."
Hawks nodded in agreement. "Of course. We'll do everything in our power to protect Izuku and stop the Schnees. But we need to be smart about it. We can't rush in blindly. We need a plan."
Izuku's stomach churned with unease as he absorbed Hawks' words. The gravity of the situation weighed heavily on him, the reality of being hunted by such a powerful family sinking deeper with each passing moment.
"What if they find Mirko's hideout? What if they come after us there?" Izuku's voice trembled with fear, the thought of endangering them weighing heavily on his conscience. "What if they use my friends as bait?"
"We'll make sure Mirko's hideout is secure. We have measures in place to keep you safe. And if the Schnees come knocking, we'll be ready for them," responded Hawks, his eyes reflecting determination.
"As for your friends, they're tough." Joan added. "They're strong and capable. They've faced challenges before, and they've always come out on top. We have to believe that they can handle themselves against the Schnees."
He nodded, drawing strength from her words. "I guess you're right. Besides, there is a whole group against them. Bakugo would blast them into kingdom come and Hagakure is crafty with her invisibility. Also, if the Big 3—"
Hawks's jaw tightened, a flicker of anger crossing his features. "Don't be too brash, Izuku. And I won't lie to you – this won't be easy. The Schnees are ruthless, and they won't hesitate to exploit any weaknesses they can find."
"But earlier…."
"Your classmates are tough, but this isn't a line of scrimmage," retorted the winged hero. "I know you know that Jacques and Endeavor have been working together."
"..."
"I've been investigating some connections between Endeavor and Jacques Schnee. It seems they've been working together behind the scenes."
"Yes, sir. But how do you know?"
"You think that man can keep secrets? He is an everyday Trump. He feels unstoppable."
"I…I thought that they were just talks."
"A relationship that involves the most crooked man of Atlas, if not all of Remnant and the #1 Pro Hero of Japan will have its consequences," said Hawks. "The truth of the matter — it's a deadly game." He sighed heavily. "Endeavor has no idea what demons he is bringing if he opens that door to that man."
"Hawks, what does this mean?" Izuku asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
Hawks sighed, his expression troubled. "It means trouble, Izuku. If the Schnee Dust Company and Endeavor's agency combine their resources and influence, they could have a significant impact on the community. It could lead to corruption, exploitation, and unchecked power."
"All of this because of me?"
Joan sighed. "What Hawks is saying is that you're just a small piece in what is to come. You might be an accessory to Jacques and his family but a very important accessory."
"Pants can't support themselves without the belt. Overalls can't hold without the straps," said Hawks. "Walls can't hold without studs and anchors."
"I guess I am just a catalyst then," said Izuku.
Hawks bit into his lip. He regrettably wished that he didn't say that to him.
"Let's focus on one thing at a time — getting you to Mirko's," said Hawks. "Once we get situated, we need to think of a plan. But right now, speculation is the last thing we need."
Joan nodded. "I agree, Hawks. Trust is the more important factor and without that trust, it's all for naught."
As the car continued its journey, Izuku couldn't shake the feeling of urgency that gripped him. Was his resistance to the Schnee family unknowingly created imminent danger to his community? The threat posed by the alliance between the Schnee Dust Company and Endeavor's agency loomed over him. At the time, he didn't think it was a big deal, considering the position he was in under the Schnee family. In some way, he felt responsible, considering he knew about it.
"I feel so responsible for this. My mom, my friends, my classmates, the community — all could face trouble…because of me! God, why do I feel so weak? I knew I should have just swan dive off the roof."
Meanwhile….
"They have clearance. Let them through!"
Security waved the dark sedan through the security checkpoint as they entered Endeavor's hero agency. Jacques instructed him to drive through the garage to where the VIP parking was located.
The car ride there was in pure, utter silence. Although Sansa drove, it was Jacques that controlled the ship. Even as they drove, Sansa and Toshinori exchanged glances with each other, knowing the full extent of the position they got themselves into. His espionage with White Fang and Toshinori's closeted pervertedness toward Inko was their downfall. Now, they served as pawns for the white-haired gentleman who served as their benefactors. He could only pray that once they took care of their end, they could walk away scot-free.
Even in his heart, he knew that was a lie.
Finding a suitable parking space, Sansa, Jacques, and Toshinori stepped out of the car. The three gentlemen walked down the garage as they headed to the elevator. It was no secret that Jacques had a key that led him to Endeavor's private floor.
A few moments passed before the elevator doors opened and they entered the private corridor that led to Enji Todoroki's office.
Upon entry, Burnin, the fiery hero known for her enthusiasm and efficiency, greeted them at the entrance with a nod of recognition.
"Welcome," Burnin said, her voice carrying a hint of warmth despite the seriousness of the situation. "Endeavor is expecting you. Follow me."
The trio followed Burnin through the bustling corridors of the agency, the sound of hero activity echoing off the walls. Each step brought them closer to Endeavor's office, where the Pro Hero himself awaited their arrival.
As they entered the spacious office, Endeavor rose from his desk, his imposing figure towering over them. His stern gaze assessed each of them in turn, his expression giving away little of his thoughts or intentions.
"Welcome, gentlemen," Endeavor greeted, his voice a low rumble that filled the room. "I trust you have come with important matters to discuss."
Jacques inclined his head in acknowledgment, his demeanor reserved yet commanding. "Indeed, Enji. We have pressing issues that require your attention."
All Might exchanged a tense glance with Sansa, their shared apprehension mirrored in each other's eyes. The meeting ahead held the promise of answers, but also the potential for further complications and betrayals.
Burnin, ever the gracious host, stepped forward with a tray of drinks, offering refreshments to the gentlemen gathered in Endeavor's office. All Might politely declined, his focus unwavering as he prepared himself for the weighty discussions ahead.
"Thank you, Burnin, but I'll pass," All Might said with a nod of gratitude, his attention fixed on Endeavor.
Jacques and Sansa, however, accepted the offer, both opting for whiskey as they settled into their seats. Burnin poured the amber liquid into glasses with practiced precision, her movements fluid and efficient. Once she had served the drinks and left the room, the atmosphere grew tense with anticipation.
Endeavor waited until Burnin had left before addressing the group, his voice carrying the weight of authority and purpose. "Now that we're all here, let's get down to business."
"Never a truer word spoken there, Enji." Jacques concurred, raising his glasses. "Enji, I know you are acquainted with Toshinori and Sansa here." He took a sip of the brown water. "The two of them are in an assignment that, as you say, needs guidance. The problem is that I don't feel that they truly understand the predicament they could put themselves in if they fail this assignment." He snickered.
Enji rubbed his fiery beard, showing that he wasn't amused. He took a swig of his liquor as he adamantly listened.
"I know you you know Salai Belladonna, excuse me, Sansa Tamakama, officer and in route to becoming a detective for the Musutafu Police Department." He then swayed his hand to All Might. "And of course, the former Symbol of Peace himself, Toshinori Yagi, formerly known as All Might."
Enji cleared his throat as he leaned back in his chair. "So?"
Jacques chuckled once more. "You're right, Enji. No need for a resume. The thing is they are needed to acquire something that is rightfully mine."
Jacques' demand hung heavy in the air, his words a chilling reminder of the power he wielded. All Might's plea for reason echoed in the tense silence that followed, but Endeavor's expression remained impassive, his resolve unwavering.
"Enji, or should I say your most high Endeavor, you must understand the gravity of the situation," Jacques insisted, his voice cold and commanding. "Toshinori and Sansa are to focus solely on finding Izuku Midoriya. Any resistance will have consequences."
He leaned forward towards Enji's direction.
"You and I are in business together, Enji," Jacques asserted, his voice carrying a hint of steel. "Surely, you understand the importance of cooperation in matters such as these. All Might and Sansa's assistance in finding Izuku should be viewed as an opportunity, rather than a burden."
Endeavor's jaw tightened imperceptibly, his gaze meeting Jacques' with a steely resolve. He understood the implications of Jacques' veiled threats, but he refused to be swayed so easily.
"I am well aware of our business dealings, Jacques," Endeavor replied, his voice measured but firm. "However, be mindful of your position. Just because you have the table doesn't necessarily mean you have the floor." He cracked his knuckles.
"Perhaps you need a reminder of the incentives involved," Jacques continued, his tone taking on a sharper edge. "All Might and Sansa have their own skeletons in the closet. Sansa's ties to White Fang and All Might's questionable actions regarding Inko Midoriya do not reflect well on their supposed hero qualities."
The figurehead's words bore the weight of temptation, his voice a honeyed lure as he sought to sway Endeavor to his side. With a knowing glint in his eye, he painted a picture of ambition and greatness, appealing to Endeavor's desire for recognition and power.
"Enji, think of the possibilities," Jacques urged, his tone persuasive. "Together, we could achieve greatness beyond measure. With your strength and my resources, we could shape the world in our image. You have always aspired to be the sole symbol of peace, and I can assist you in achieving that dream."
All Might's frustration boiled over, his plea tinged with desperation. "Enji, please! This is a mistake. We can't let Jacques manipulate us like this."
Endeavor's response was swift and decisive. With a sharp gesture, he silenced All Might, his gaze piercing and unforgiving. "Enough, Toshinori. You speak when spoken to."
"But…"
"Silence!"
The weight of Endeavor's authority hung heavily in the room, stifling any further protest. All Might's shoulders sagged in defeat, the realization sinking in that their fate was now inextricably tied to the decisions of those in power.
Endeavor's brow furrowed as he listened to Jacques' proposition, the allure of power and prestige tugging at the edges of his resolve. He knew the weight of his ambitions, the burning desire to leave his mark on history, and Jacques' offer seemed tantalizingly within reach.
"But what do you want in return?" Endeavor asked, his voice betraying a hint of caution.
Jacques smiled, a wolfish grin that hinted at the depths of his ambitions. "I want your cooperation in provoking Sansa and All Might into finding Izuku Midoriya," he replied, his gaze unwavering. "With their assistance, we can achieve our goals swiftly and decisively. And in return, I promise you the recognition and acclaim you deserve as the one true symbol of peace."
Endeavor's mind raced as he weighed the offer before him, the allure of power and influence tempting him to accept. Yet, he couldn't shake the nagging feeling of unease, the sense that striking a deal with Jacques Schnee would come at a price too steep to bear.
As the silence stretched between them, the fate of their partnership hung in the balance, poised on the precipice of opportunity and betrayal. In the end, Endeavor knew he would have to make a choice—one that would shape the course of his legacy and the destiny of those around him.
At the end of the day, being number one was the most important thing to him — loyalty over friendship.
"You have three days to find Izuku Midoriya," Enji's voice echoed with a cold finality, his gaze unwavering as he met the stunned expressions of his colleagues. "Failure to do so will result in the exposure of your secrets and prosecution to the full extent of the law."
As Enji delivered his ultimatum, the weight of his words hung heavy in the air, casting a pall of uncertainty over the room. Sansa and All Might stood frozen in shock, their minds racing to process the gravity of the situation unfolding before them.
Sansa's hands clenched into fists at his sides, his mind reeling with the implications of Enji's decree. All Might's heart sank as the realization dawned upon him, a bitter taste of betrayal lingering on his tongue.
"Enji...," All Might's voice wavered, disbelief etched in every syllable. "Have you truly given in to the devil's bargain?"
Enji's expression remained stoic, the lines of his face hardened with resolve. "I have made my decision," he replied, his tone devoid of remorse. "As you made yours, lecher!"
Jacques' smile curled at the corners, a sly expression that betrayed his satisfaction at the unfolding events. With a smooth motion, he raised his glass in a silent toast, the clink of crystal punctuating the weighty atmosphere of the room. He took a deliberate sip of his drink, the amber liquid glinting in the dim light.
"To our newfound cooperation," Jacques said, his tone dripping with a veneer of congeniality. "May it bring us all closer to our goals."
The cat-headed officer and the former Symbol of Peace exchanged uneasy glances, the taste of betrayal lingering bitter on their tongues. Despite their reservations, they knew they were now entangled in a web of alliances and compromises, with Jacques pulling the strings from the shadows.
"Rest assured, gentlemen," Jacques continued, his smile widening into a predatory grin. "I'll have reinforcements on standby in case you experience any... buyer's remorse."
"You're dismissed. Take your leave," Enji demanded.
"Enji," All Might pleaded.
"You have the man, get the hell out." Jacques protested.
"But—"
"Get the hell outta my sight!" Enji barked at the former Symbol of Peace.
All Might dropped his head, feeling the guilt that clotted his veins. He watched as Jacques smiled as he swung his glass. Sansa grabbed All Might's shoulder and nudged him to leave the office.
As All Might and Sansa departed, leaving Endeavor alone with the devil incarnate, the tension in the room seemed to amplify, the weight of their clandestine dealings pressing in on them.
Once they were alone, Endeavor turned his attention to Jacques, his expression inscrutable. "What of Inko and Hisashi?" he inquired, his voice low and guarded.
Jacques leaned back in his chair, a smirk playing at the corners of his lips. "Inko is safe for now," he replied cryptically. "As for Hisashi, he's... occupied at the moment. But rest assured, he won't pose a threat."
Enji's brow furrowed at the vague response, a flicker of concern passing through his eyes. "Occupied? What do you mean?" he pressed, his tone tinged with suspicion.
Jacques waved a dismissive hand, as if brushing off Endeavor's concerns. "Let's just say he's come to understand where his loyalties lie," he answered evasively. "He's cooperating, and that's all that matters for now."
"And what of your daughters?" Enji asked, his voice laced with a hint of apprehension. "Are they... handling the situation appropriately?"
The figurehead leaned forward, his demeanor casual yet calculated. "Ah, my daughters are quite resourceful," he replied with a smirk. "They're currently downstairs, shall we say, 'interrogating' Izuku's classmates. Nothing too severe, of course. Just a few questions about Izuku's whereabouts, particularly in relation to the girls."
The #1 Pro Hero's brow furrowed at the implication, his thoughts racing as he contemplated the potential ramifications of their actions. "As long as they don't harm my son," he warned, his voice a low growl. "I won't tolerate any unnecessary violence."
Jacques nodded, his smile widening into a predatory grin. "Of course, Enji. You have my word," he assured, though there was a glint of mischief in his eyes. "My daughters know better than to cross that line. They simply seek answers, nothing more."
Later…
As the elevator descended to the main foyer of Endeavor's agency, a heavy silence hung between the disgraced gentleman. The weight of their recent decisions bore down on All Might's conscience, the guilt gnawing at him as he grappled with the betrayal of Inko and Izuku.
Sansa glanced at All Might, his expression unreadable, but the tension in the air was palpable. They both knew that their actions had set into motion a series of events that could have far-reaching consequences, and the burden of their choices weighed heavily upon them.
As the elevator doors slid open, Sansa and All Might stepped out into the main foyer, their eyes scanning the surroundings for any signs of trouble. However, what greeted them was unexpected—a pair of mysterious strangers standing before them, their presence unsettling.
The first figure, clad in a sleek black outfit with a hat obscuring their features, exuded an air of quiet menace. The second, adorned in a flamboyant ensemble with a smirk playing on their lips, exuded a cocky confidence that belied their dangerous aura.
Sansa's hand instinctively went to the holster at his side, his senses on high alert as he assessed the newcomers. All Might's grip tightened around his fists, a surge of apprehension coursing through him as he braced himself for whatever challenge lay ahead.
"Who are you?" Sansa demanded, his voice steady despite the uncertainty that churned within him.
The figures exchanged a knowing glance, their expressions inscrutable. The one in black tipped his hat in a mockingly polite gesture, while the other chuckled softly, her eyes glinting with mischief.
"We're just a couple of travelers passing through," the one in black replied cryptically, his voice dripping with intrigue. "But it seems we've stumbled upon quite an interesting gathering here."
The girl with the pink and brown used her hands, giving them hints that she doesn't speak and was using sign language.
"Excuse my silent friend here, but as she just said, we believe that we are the reinforcements Jacques mentioned. She's Neo, and I am her associate, Roman Thorwick." The man in the black hat commented. "A pleasure to meet you two."
"I wish I could say the same." Sansa commented.
"Trust me, Salai, it would be in your best interest not to rebuttal," retorted Roman.
The cat-headed officer dropped his head.
Neo used her hands to speak to Roman. The brunet nodded in understanding. "She says that as much as this tet-o-tet would be nice, we have to move. After all, you all are on a limited timeline."
"We understand," Sansa replied, his voice tight with resignation. "Lead the way."
Roman's smirk widened into a knowing grin as he gestured for Sansa and Toshinori to follow. With a sense of foreboding, they trailed behind the enigmatic duo, their footsteps echoing in the empty corridors of the agency.
Outside, a dark sedan awaited them, its sleek exterior gleaming under the dim glow of streetlights. The air was thick with anticipation as Roman and Neo ushered Sansa and Toshinori towards the vehicle, their movements precise and deliberate.
As they climbed into the backseat of the sedan, the door closing behind them with a heavy thud, Sansa and Toshinori braced themselves for the unknown. The engine roared to life, the sound reverberating through the night as they were enveloped in darkness.
As the dark sedan began to pull away from the agency, Roman's eyes narrowed with intrigue as he received word of a potential lead regarding Izuku's whereabouts. His lips curled into a satisfied smirk, a glimmer of anticipation dancing in his eyes.
"Alright, it seems we've got ourselves a lead," Roman remarked, his voice laced with a hint of excitement.
All Might's curiosity piqued at the news, his gaze shifting to Neo, who had transformed into the form of a naked bartender who sported a bowtie and cat ears. With a quizzical expression, he inquired, while covering his eyes, "How did you come by this information?"
Neo's expression remained inscrutable as she signed to them, her movements fluid and precise.
"She says that you're on a need-to-know basis," said Roman. "What should matter is your reputation on the line if we don't find Izuku."
All Might and Sansa exchanged a knowing glance, their minds racing with possibilities. The puzzle pieces were beginning to fall into place, and with each revelation, they drew closer to the truth behind Izuku's whereabouts.
Meanwhile….
As Willow sat alone on the balcony of the Midoriya residence, the gentle breeze stirred her thoughts. Sipping her tea, she couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement coursing through her veins at the mere thought of the chase for Izuku.
Unbeknownst to Izuku, a subtle and potent spell had been cast upon herself, weaving its magic in the shadows. The tendrils of this enchantment had found their mark, entwining her destiny with a secret that lay hidden within her very being.
With each passing moment, the magic of the fertility spell took root, a silent guardian of the mysterious life burgeoning within her. Willow's heart fluttered with a mixture of exhilaration and apprehension, unaware of the profound changes unfolding beneath the surface of her consciousness.
She gently touched her stomach. Flat for the time being, but knowing she and Izuku's creation was forming inside of her womb. New life was being formed as she spoke and to think that Izuku would dare deny and defy those responsibilities. She had told herself that Izuku's mind was corrupted. She thought that keeping him away from the girls would work. Guys could join him, but their time with him was limited. Guess she was wrong.
"Tee-hee! It's only a matter of time, my little fishy. Until we meet again, my sweet, sweet pet!"
To be continued….
BD: Roman and Neo join the fray. And Willow's pregnant?! Izuku's solace will only be finite but will Izuku have what it takes to prepare for the inevitable? Wait and see in the next chapter of "A Schnee Holiday."