A/N: So, after the last chapter, the ever-faithful Ryuujin96 pointed out something that I hadn't even considered. Rather than changing or deleting the chapter, though, I've decided to write a whole standalone fic as a sequel to that chapter. Exactly when I'm gonna release it is unknown, but you'll know more when I release the trailer. In the meantime, here's a less politically-charged chapter.
Another evening cast over Musutafu, and Deku and Todoroki were trying something a little different: tonight, they were going to a hockey game at the Musutafu Ice Palace to see the Musutafu Wolves take on the Oji Eagles, both teams being a part of Asia League Ice Hockey. Deku had plenty to say about this, too:
"You know, I'm still surprised that you're into hockey."
"Why for?" said Todoroki. "I've always been into winter sports."
"On second thought, I guess that makes sense considering the Cold half of your Quirk. Still, you're more adventurous than I thought."
Todoroki put a hand on Deku's shoulder. "I owe much of that to you."
Deku smiled. "I'm not surprised by that. By the way, I was wondering…"
"Yes?"
"Why are you wearing an American hockey jersey today?"
Todoroki briefly looked down at her vintage Boston Bruins jersey, which had Bobby Orr's name and number on it.
"You know, I'm not 100% sure. I have watched my fair share of NHL games, though, and perhaps my favorite hockey moment is the 1980 'Miracle On Ice' at Lake Placid."
"Well, you should wear this jersey more often! It looks cute on you!"
"Oh, Deku!"
Todoroki wrapped an arm around Deku briefly. Then, they proceeded to the main arena and took their seats. While neither of them had rinkside seats, they weren't in the so-called "nosebleed section" either. There they sat, greatly anticipating the action that was to come. Soon enough, the lights dimmed, and the spotlights came on…
"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the Musutafu Ice Palace for another exciting presentation of Asia League Ice Hockey!" said the announcer. "And here's your Musutafu Wolves!"
The players of the Musutafu Wolves came out onto the ice as spotlights shined on them. A good portion of the crowd cheered for them.
"Challenging them tonight is the Oji Eagles!"
Spotlights shined on the Oji Eagles' players as they came out onto the ice as well. There was also a portion of the crowd that cheered for them. Soon, the lights came back on, and the players got into position. The ref dropped the puck, and the game got on as Musutafu's Noboru Kawakami took possession. One thing that separated Asia League Ice Hockey from the NHL was that unlike the NHL, fighting in this league was against the rules and was severely punished. That didn't make this game any less exciting for Deku or Todoroki, however. In fact, the game was that much more exciting because they were sharing in it with each other. It was a tough game for both teams, and neither one scored in the first period. However, things would get even tougher in the second period when Musutafu's Masaru Inaba scored the first goal of the game, and Juro Kobayashi of Oji scored one a few minutes later, and thus, the score would remain tied at the end of the second period.
Neither team had been particularly willing to cede another goal, but in the end, the Musutafu Wolves won 3-2. Deku and Todoroki excitedly discussed the game as they left the stadium:
"Wow, that was one of the most exciting hockey games I've ever seen!" said Deku.
"I know! One of my favorite moments was when Okazaki blocked Matsumura's shot near the end of the second period! Had he not done that, then Oji would've won the game for sure!"
"You know, it's interesting how some games are decided by those little moments in between."
Todoroki nodded. "I agree."
"Anyways, thanks again for inviting me, Shoko! I always enjoy hanging out with you!"
"You're welcome! The pleasure is likewise!"
Todoroki held Deku's hand as they headed on home. While not the biggest sports fanatic in the world, Deku was looking forward to whatever other sporting events Todoroki might invite him to.
A/N: If you're looking for a good hockey song, I recommend "Hit Somebody" by Warren Zevon.
Criticism is gold. Negativity and nitpicking are pyrite.