The next day was bright and sunny. After having breakfast, Izuku was torn from Ciana to hang out with Iida, Uraraka, and some of the others, less the 'two lovebirds got too comfortable together' as Ashido asked Eijiro to recite for her, probably laughing when she said it. This left Ciana by herself for a bit, following a strange text back to the villain battle arena... from Katsuki?
"You too?" Looking to her left of the entrance, Ciana blinked to see Shoto do the same, holding out his phone to reveal the same message.
It wasn't much, simply stating, 'come to the arena, now'. At least he wasn't cursing them out... yet.
"Uh… yeah, looks like it." It was unexpected of Bakugo to suddenly call them out, but if he wanted to meet at the arena she guessed he wanted to challenge them. "I didn't think he would call you over since you already were competing with your moves before when I first spotted you, I'm guessing he's still looking for a challenge…"
Ciana chuckled with a sheepish rub to her neck, Bakugo probably didn't focus on anything other than getting stronger. Since her Quirk evolved more he probably wanted to fight her like that… secretly shivering at the idea of the sudden fight between them.
"Yeah there are things you've probably be surprised seeing other than me glowing…" She's a dragon that grows horns, claws, her hair changing color and now a sea dragon… not sure how she can describe that into her list. "But I'll surprise ya both just for you to see how much I blossomed."
Ciana retorts playfully with another giggle and smile, arms behind her back as she now looks forward to head out toward the entrance… curious what Explody Fists has planned for them.
"It took you two long enough!" Just as they entered, people were already around for the first session of the day, someone already running the course as the commentator commended them. Katsuki tapped his foot impatiently at them, scowling deep. "When I said to show up 'now', I didn't mean take fifteen minutes!"
"You never said it was urgent, so I saw no reason to," Shoto wasn't phased at all. "What's this about, Bakugo?"
"You know damn well, Icy-Hot! You swept in and showed me up, and in using only half your damn quirk again," Katsuki marched up to them, jabbing his finger at them both. "So I want a rematch, this time, you won't beat me! I've already set my record again, fourteen-point-two seconds; and you-" He growled toward Ciana, making her flinch with a nervous smile. "-you're replacing Deku,"
"What's that supposed to mean?" She raised her brow amusingly at her exploding friend. "I mean I understand you want to keep getting stronger but today's our last day, can't you lighten up just a little bit? We are on summer break, you know." She guessed since Bakugo didn't want to have any contact with Izuku he wouldn't have been able to send a message to challenge him… she figured he would at least challenge him in person if he wanted to blow away his last score.
"I am lightened up, but that still doesn't mean I'll let either of you beat me!" He was very adamant on this, apparently.
Shoto tapped Ciana's arm, leaning to her side. "It may be better to do so, if it helps the situation," He suggested.
"I can still hear you, bastard!" Katsuki's brow started to twitch erratically.
Ciana waved her hands in a manner of settle down while she smiled sheepishly. "Alright alright, I take you up on your challenge, I still owe you anyway for not being able to fight you during the sports festival." She did promise she would improve harder to be a better challenge, this seemed fun anyways to do with the boys.
Now raising her fists with confidence. "Alright! So what do we do exactly? Show off our moves like what you guys did last time?" Ciana figured she should hear the rules before doing anything, since she can be clueless which she hates to admit…
Retaining his striking glare, Katsuki glanced to the arena. "It's simple that even you'd understand it; destroy all the machine villains as quickly as possible. Don't go outside the arena. Don't attack bystanders or the chick down there. There are twelve machines in total as well," He listed clear and confidently. "Blank goes first, then Icy-Hot, and this time-" His red eyes shot toward Shoto. "-use your flames instead of that cheat with ice again,"
"...fine," Shoto reluctantly agreed, he did require practice using it in rapid bursts in a smaller field.
"Would it kill ya to call me by my actual name at least once?" She sweat-dropped while maintaining her smile, but gave a nod of understanding. "Okay! Bet I can strike as much as you Shoto!" Ciana playfully beamed at her class prince friend as she already began to light herself up, showing off her dragon traits once again before charging forward with a confident smile.
"I'll show ya I'm not the weakling as I used to be Katsuki!" She shouted out to her explosive friend as well in another playful manner, already having her fighting spirit going.
While Ciana marched on downstairs to put her hat in the ring, Shoto gave Katsuki a curious look. "I understand wanting to prove you're better to me and Midoriya, but why Finley too? Given how you've trained with her, what is it you're expecting of her?"
Katsuki stood at the railing, looking down at the girl now being waved in after the arena was reset, seeing her smile with confidence again. Despite the target on her back, she was glowing with pride, the same that refused to bend a knee when he met her, the same that drove Izuku forward and fought on equal grounds with Katsuki and Eijiro. Crossing his arms, the blonde huffed. "To win."
~We've got two more lined up, everyone! Another returning face from yesterday, but now, a new competitor to take on the gauntlet!~ The woman announced, those in the crowd giving Ciana cheers of encouragement. ~On my mark, be ready to go!~
Now having her hero costume back on as well as her hair tied up, Ciana was still powered up with her light and dragon traits while she stepped out to the rink. She felt like she was back in the sports festival but with less people watching this time, Ciana took a quick glance at the boys behind her and smiled bright and confident towards them before looking forward again as she raised her fists to be ready.
"So much for taking it easy, but this should at least be pretty fun and exciting!" Ciana thought, a bit nervous but is determined to give this everything she's got to impress her friends. Would be good to be prepared for the big summer camp coming up anyways.
~Ready? Go!~ The woman waved, Ciana breaking away with a rush of heat behind her.
The first robot, a red one, caught her sight, and a second later, her leg swung wide, folding its side. Using it as leverage, Ciana lunged high, carving her claws across the face of the second one, gripping the shredded hull to slam her feet down, tossing it into a third, both blown away by the force of which she swung. Not slowing down, Ciana, for a moment, heard a faint voice pull her head left, just in time to spot the dark grey machine hiding among the rocks.
Twisting her wrist against the sheer rock face, her bent knee smashed its optical, burying it into the ground as she dove up and over a ridge. With a burst of energy, her astral wings grew through the two tears in the back of her costume again, allowing her to suspend herself longer. Dispelling the wings, she spun forward, her heel colliding with the next machine, diving through the fires to lacerate the next robot, and the one that followed.
With her final surge, Ciana tore up the final peak, her arms gouging out the last three robots, leaving unable particles that ripped apart the internals of each machine as she stood atop the peak, panting a little with a smirk.
~She cleared the course in eighteen seconds!~ The announcer declared while Ciana hopped her way down the mountain, listening to the applause.
As she hopped down, she took a breath after that swift action she did. Keeping her smile intact as she now raised her hands cheerfully at her proud accomplishment, glancing back at the boys. Ciana waved at them from where she stood. "Hey guys! How did you like that?!" She asked as she was giggling and still waving towards her friends.
"Tch, you still didn't beat me!" She expected nothing less of Katsuki, meanwhile, Shoto nodded to her.
"Your movements are sharper, you've adapted to regulating your output for brief increases of speed and strength," Shoto replied with more to say. "It's similar to what Midoriya does,"
Now coming back in as she approached them, still in her hero wear. "Y-you think so? Doubt I'll ever be as fast as Izuku but at least I'm able to figure out some of my own ways around my power thanks to you and Katsuki." She has trained with the two boys and managed to improve herself thanks to them, smiling at them gratefully.
"If it weren't for you both I would still be a bit sloppy, but you're probably not going to believe this but my power evolved into other forms. The wings were part of it…" She rubbed her sore neck sheepishly just mentioning her new forms her dragon side takes in certain environments.
"They're not forming completely, you can't fly yet," Katsuki spoke up again, not bothering to turn his head. "Using them to suspend yourself in the air longer is smart,"
Shoto didn't say it, but he was surprised to hear Katsuki genuinely compliment someone without any snark. "Guess I'm up next, be back soon," With a curt wave, Shoto left for the stairway.
"Good luck out there!" She grinned and waved at the class prince before turning her attention back to the exploding boy with her arms around her back, happy from his comment towards her. "I discovered the wings when I was fighting off that Whiplash guy that tried to kidnap me, it's still a shock to me especially since I never pictured myself possibly flying."
Now scratching her cheek with a shy smile. "My form can actually change into an aquatic form too when I enter the water… it's weird cuz I thought quirks didn't have more than two powers like Shoto with his fire and ice." Her Quirk still confuses her and concerns her, she can see what makes it powerful now.
Keeping his eyes forward, Katsuki scoffed. "That's because your quirk takes energy from others through their emotions, then converts it into power that you manipulate into a physical form. Your 'dragon' forms are just hardened energy you produce. That Edgelord villain continuously uses his quirk, taking from negative sources too, so all that darker energy left permanent impressions on his body, something you clearly lack," He leaned onto the railing. "Now shut up, it's starting,"
Ciana was stunned to hear how he figured out how her powered worked when it came to her forms, she stared at him for a moment processing more of his fast thinking, he and Izuku really are alike… not personality wise but powerful, determined to achieve their goals, quickly analyzing a person's powers and moves and even having the same heroic hearts wanting to do good.
Ciana perked up her smile back at this, she saw it before but knowing he is staying true to his heart had her admire him as usual. Not many would understand Katsuki well due to his blunt and destructive attitude but she knew very well he would never go towards the path of a villain. Ciana faced forward now with her arms leaning on the railing next to her friend. "You never fail to impress me." Ciana comments while still smiling, keeping her eyes forward to watch Shoto come out.
Though, once Shoto got started, he... completely swept the playing field. Limited to his flames. He used his foot to propel himself up the mountain range, blasting waves of scorching flames over the robots. By the time he reached a new batch, the previous ones were melted mounds of sparking scrap, the others soon consumed by roaring embers.
~H-He's come in first place. Ten-point-eight seconds!~ At the announcement, Ciana sweat dropped, glancing over to Katsuki yanking the railing back and forth, almost tearing it out from the concrete in his fit of rage.
"Dammit... ICY-HOT BASTARD!" He was completely beaten yet again.
Shoto, meanwhile, used his ice to cool down, blinking at the applause and to his friends. Ciana looked wide-eyed and happy, while Katsuki was on the brink of destruction. "They're certainly strange..." Though, he'd prefer it that way, funny enough.
Ciana cheered with her fist raised, very wowed by Shotos' performance. Even noticing he caught the hearts of a few girls who were watching and sitting, chuckling a little at some of the people's reactions toward Shoto. If he smiled then she's sure they would faint. "Wow, you were amazing Shoto!" She praised him with a shout out.
"I know to keep watching out for you now!" Now glancing at Katsuki beside her, she didn't think her efforts would help settle him down but sure tries to anyway. "Don't worry I'm sure you will beat him at some point." Trying to lighten her explosive friend back up but hopefully not in a dynamite way.
"This just gives us more motivation to work even harder to do better." Ciana knew she had to work hard herself to be a good hero, her friends will always be her strength.
"..." Katsuki growled, releasing the railing to leave now. "I need something to eat, don't bother following!" That usually meant if they did follow he wouldn't do anything but yell about it and grow silent again. Ciana kept a mental note of that once Shoto was ready again.
When Shoto did show up again, back in his casual clothes, the two of them shadowed Katsuki once they spotted him.
She waved toward him as she showed up again, Ciana figured she should let Bakugo cool down for a bit. "Hey! Awesome moves out there! After that villain attack I can guess that leveled up your fighting techniques to pull that off." A hike up 200 floors and fighting off villains as well as robots on the way? Yeah… that probably would be enough to bring a few levels up.
"I've been trying to limit how much of my fire I use in one burst, or trying to contain more to an area," Shoto replied earnestly, glancing down at his left foot. "I got the idea to propel myself with my flames during the incident when we helped Midoriya and the girl he was with reach the higher floors," His gaze then fell to Katsuki's form marching ahead of them. "I still need to practice moving in the air though like Bakugo or Midoriya, as well as how to balance myself,"
"I'm not helping you!" Katsuki yelled back.
Shoto's gaze fell back to Ciana, not at all phased by the blonde's reaction. "It's strange, despite the activity being a test of skill and strength, it doesn't feel at all like training,"
"Well, it's still a good way to see how far along you got to be with your own results." Plus it was fun for her when she gave it a try, always stunned with herself what she could do. "There are still things I have to keep improving on myself, but still another good way to be prepared for the summer camp coming up."
Hopefully it will be a breeze compared to what they've been through on this island, sure felt like one heck of a training session as she chuckled. "That actually reminds me… I've been meaning to tell you guys something that happened the other night, I don't think all the villains were round up on this island…" Now her expression turned a bit serious, recalling the guy that came up to Izuku…
They kept walking, but Shoto's eyes hardened a bit, and even with Katsuki's back facing them, his aura shifted, briefly with a sense of tension. "Giving how you've phrased it, you've met this person?" Shoto inquired first, although, given how relaxed Ciana appeared, she wasn't heavily affected by it.
She shook her head, while she knew who the guy might be. She has yet to confront him. "Izuku actually was the one who did… you see, last night I separated from Izuku for a few minutes to do something, and he said this guy with blond hair, red eyes and a scar on his cheek came up to him and suddenly taunted him…"
Her expression hardened a bit herself knowing how he put him down, but also nervous who he might be working with. "I don't think he ever mentioned his name but Izuku said he might be a spy by the way the guy came off towards him…"
"Knowing Midoriya, he'd have confronted him directly, likely reported it after too," It was a relief to Shoto, feeling they nearly had another Stain incident on their hands, but his green-haired friend handled himself well, clearly. "It's good you're both okay then, more than likely that was all the man was there for, to taunt, but it's best to keep our eyes open if someone shady does something like that again."
"Tch, I'd like to see them try," Katsuki wasn't fazed by that fact, Ciana honestly would've imagined Katsuki pummelling the stranger into the ground if he got close enough.
"Izuku actually said he recorded his threatening encounter but when we had our stuff placed somewhere for a moment he somehow managed to erase any evidence he pinned on him… I-I get the feeling if he did that then he's definitely watching somewhere…" The idea of her still being followed definitely still gave her the jitters, thinking it's best she's not alone, especially at night.
"Oh, Izuku also mentioned that his Quirk is that he can snatch anything he sets his sight on. Could be the way he managed to snatch Izuku's phone without being detected." A power like that she can guess any villain would love just to snatch someone's wallet easily…
"I see, then we'll definitely watch ourselves," Shoto replied, thankful for the warning. Someone like what Ciana described would be the type to use those connected to their target.
"Would you two shut up about villains for one day!? You're ruining my appetite!" Katsuki thundered ahead of them, glaring over his shoulder. "Why the hell are you two idiots still following me!? I'm not paying for your meals!"
"The stalls and restaurants are in this direction," The prince pointed out to a sign nearby, and Katsuki visibly flinched, realizing this was indeed the case.
"And besides we have our own money, I wouldn't ask you to go that far for me." She teased a little toward her explosive friend with a giggle, pointing her thumb at the class prince. "His royal highness I can guess has more than enough to order a buffet if he wanted to." Ciana chuckled jokingly toward him as well as she eyed the prince, knowing his wealthy status.
"That title again, 'prince', I've heard the same from Ashido before, I don't understand what about me is fitting of that," Despite Shoto's clear sharpness for academics and battle, he... was hopeless and clueless to socialization.
"You really don't know?" Ciana smiled amusingly at this, giggling how cute and funny how naive he even can be. "You're actually known as the most handsome boy in our class, plus with your wealthy status the girls pretty much nicknamed you the class prince. I honestly thought it was a fitting nickname for you. I couldn't help but go along with it." She rubbed the back of her head when sharing this, plus now his own counterpart is a real prince in the fantasy world… Shoto truly fits the title perfectly.
Shoto spaced out a moment, face warped by complete bewilderment, pointing to himself after a pause. "...am I really seen that way?" He even cocked his head, trying to understand why that was the case, and what that meant in the grand scheme of things.
"Hahahaha!" To their surprise, Katsuki burst out laughing at the name. "That's the best damn thing I've heard, hah!"
Noticing Bakugo now laughing had her chuckle how he took in that nickname, no doubt he would find that amusing… eyeing the prince again with a nod and a smile. "Pretty much, you're quite popular when it comes to your looks, cool attitude and intelligence in school." Now turning her attention back to Bakugo with a playful expression.
"You're basically known as Exploding boy as your status Katsuki." She informs the guy but he probably already knew that.
That was like tires screeching for the ash-blonde who whipped his head around to her, eyes burning with fury. "I'm just as capable as that Icy-Hot bastard! Why am I only seen for my quirk's abilities!?" Like the complete 180 of Shoto's reaction.
"You yell and swear a lot," Shoto pointed out.
"I wasn't asking you!"
"That pretty much sums it up…" Agreeing with Shoto with a shrug of her shoulders and her smile still intact. "It's better than pretty boy Sero and Kirishima used to call you… I mostly view you as a fierce barbarian taking on any enemies in his path just with a raise of his long sword and battle cry!" Ciana raised her hand and mimicked his counterparts way he waved his blade playfully.
"Huh... barbarian...?" Pausing from his fury among the small crowds of people around the buildings looking for a bite to eat, Katsuki gave them his sinister smirk. "I like the sound of that..."
Shoto blinked once, Ciana just rolled her eyes. Of course Katsuki would love the title.
"Let's go here," Shoto pointed to a small, authentic Japanese restaurant. It had a large window to view inside. A simple bar with stools set up before the cook, some two-chair tables along the wall behind the stools. Even the décor was as one would expect. "It smells good,"
Doesn't surprise her too much, Shoto picks out a place that he feels more comfortable with his culture, looking around and smelling the air of the food they were serving. "It is, I have seen these places around town but I don't think I ever got to eat in them." Her hand on her chin trying to recall her memories.
"Except for the time Izuku took me to this one place that served his favorite food… wow, there's still so much about Japanese culture I'm not familiar with." Chuckling by her own cluelessness of a different country's lifestyle, but places like this really do fascinate her and loves trying new things, the only thing she can't stand is sitting on a pillow and using sticks to eat meals…
"It's not busy so let's get a spot at the bar," Shoto suggested, leading Ciana to the doorway covered by two pieces of decorative fabric, the designs on the red material woven to look like detailed flames. Pushing through, the two sat down at the bar as the man behind the counter said nothing while he cleaned around his station, motioning for them to take a look at the menu.
While doing so, with Shoto's advice on what to get, both glanced over to see Katsuki reading through his own menu silently, his scowl no longer as deep, scanning the choices. "Ciana," Shoto drew her back to their menu, tapping one dish. "This is most common for people unfamiliar with Japanese cuisine to try, ramen,"
"Hm… alright I'll take your word for it, always fun to try something new." Shoto is pretty good with recommendations so no reason to question it. "What is it exactly?" Ciana asked with a look of wonder, some names about the meals she wasn't sure what they even are.
Putting the menu down, he gestured for her to read the contents while he explained. "It has Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a broth; most commonly, it'll taste like soy sauce and miso, typical toppings are sliced pork, nori, menma, and scallions. You just specify what you don't want, but it's good, though I'll be having Zaru Soba,"
"Huh, interesting combo. Though I have no idea what Zara Soba means…" She sweat-dropped, chuckling sheepishly with a rub to her neck. Still very unfamiliar with Japanese culture. "I'll just get what you're having, that and I think I'll even get a cherry blossom tea for my drink." Ciana has been fond of cherry blossoms lately, she enjoys the sweet taste of it in certain meals and drinks.
Once decided, the two ordered the same thing, with Katsuki just going for ramen but with an extra kick to it with spice added in. Since they were the only ones here, they got to watch and have their food done in a comfortable amount of time. The cook was silent as always, nodding to them after handing over their meals. One thing Ciana noticed was that hers and Shoto's food was cold, though that was usually how it was made, a chilled broth.
"Wow I didn't expect it to be a bit cold, do you like this because it suits your ice side?" Taking hold of her bowl as well as the chopsticks on the side… great, she has to use the sticks again. Never can she understand how these are easier eating a meal.
"I never thought of it like that," Shoto answered, silently eating afterward before pausing to point with his chopsticks, seeing her struggling. "Try to hold them like this," He held up his hand, showing her his hand's posture. "Try to cradle the bottom one between your thumb and index finger, and move the top chopstick up and down like a lever,"
She did as he instructed, a little difficult at first but got the position eventually. "Thanks, it's always so embarrassing trying to hold these right… but very interesting ways to eat a meal." Some people usually stare at her funny and probably thinking she's dumb for not knowing how to use them… but tugging the bowl closer with her free hand, Ciana tries to snatch the noodles in the sticks grip… once she does she takes a bite out of the meal.
It was definitely an interesting taste but otherwise pretty tasty. "Hmm… it's pretty good, definitely something I never tried before but I like how different the flavor is." The girls eyes sparkled a bit, another fun thing she got to try.
"I see, that's good," The prince replied, eating away at his. "It's my favourite so my sister normally makes it when I'm home at least once, it's better cold too,"
"She sounds like a very good cook, hope I'll get to meet her one day." Ciana remembered he mentioned he had siblings, guessing maybe they didn't have two quirks like Shoto if their dad didn't pressure them to succeed like him… Ciana continued to eat and even took a sip out of her drink a few times, really enjoying the taste. One thing she is happy to learn is Shoto's favorite meal, and guessed by how Katsuki likes to spice up his meals he's into spicy foods.
"That reminds me, how's your mom doing anyways? Is she doing a lot better?" Now curious how the poor woman was doing, hoping she perked up more just from seeing her son.
He stared at his dish for a moment before speaking. "Better, I visit once on the weekends or if we have time off, most of the time I write her a letter on what's happened as of late; about Midoriya, Iida, and someone else, and ever since I mentioned you coming back from a 'family trip', she's been asking about you too," Shoto replied, though he'd answer to the best of his ability, she'd really like to meet them in person.
"Really? I-I'm pretty flattered you mentioned me to her…" Already she blushed shyly but had her smile perked up happy to hear that. "She really sounds nice, I definitely love to meet her one day. I sure love to see a smile on her face." Ever since hearing what his mom went through she felt terrible she had to live in fear because of her sorry excuse of a husband… Ciana actually has wondered how Endeavor was lately as well but was afraid to mention him knowing how Shoto hates him so much.
"How's your dad as well though? He's still not pressuring you to be like him is he?" Ciana had still worried about Shoto when it came to his father, but he seemed to be doing a lot better to not be so distant anymore.
Even Katsuki glanced over hearing this, watching Shoto stare into space for a time, finishing off the last of his soba. "He still does his job, I haven't heard a word from him, being away from the house in the dorms has been better, Fuyumi says he doesn't seem as volatile, or he just doesn't have any reason to be since I'm not around," Then he perked up slightly for a second. "Oh, Fuyumi is my older sister's name,"
"I see." She nodded as she listened, also finished up with her meal and now just has the tea cup in hand. Maybe his dad finally gave up on trying to mold his son into being like him. "Sounds like he isn't giving you much of a hard time anymore, I'm glad to hear that at least." Ciana smiled a little, but the guy still sounded like a hothead.
"I admit I have been a bit concerned about Endeavor… not saying I forgive the guy but I sometimes wonder about him like his backstory… he's supposed to be a hero and yet he's driven to just being strong and popular… I hoped that you were able to have him learn from his mistakes, be a better person and a more compassionate hero." Taking a sip out of her tea, Cianas expression now took on a look of worry for the hothead.
"He only cares to be better than All Might, that's always been his goal but someone like the Symbol of Peace, that's a place my father can't reach, and that frustrates him," Shoto recalled all those awful memories, staring down at his hands. "The sole reason me and my siblings were born was to do what my father couldn't, he thought he achieved that with me, but... I'll be the hero I want to be, the kind you and Midoriya saw in me that I had forgotten," He eyed his friends, a small, thankful smile on his face. "It's imperfect, my family and history, but I don't have to look back at it as painfully anymore,"
Seeing that smile on his face brought some happiness and relief to see it again, she stared at her friend with her own smile to show she's glad to know how Shoto is starting to be more at peace. Smiling wider now with her eyes closed. "I'm so glad, no one is perfect though but it sounds like you still have people who love you like your mom and siblings. Your dad may be the furthest thing from one but I'm sure despite your anger and hatred towards him, I believe you'll one day save him from himself."
Ciana wanted to believe he can improve, if he truly wants to be a hero then he has to let his rivalry with All Might go. "But if it makes you feel better more… When I first confronted the guy I told him that what makes All Might better than him is not because of his strength but his kind and caring heart." Ciana could tell he wanted to burn her after saying that, chuckling a little from his expression.
"At home, we may not have had any superpowers. But what truly made someone a hero is not because of your strength in the muscles but the strength in your heart, that's my motto and watching how my mom stood up to people who are more strong compared to her made me see and learn that." Ciana remembers how she always witnessed how she stood up to people on the streets, telling jerks off without a hint of fear. Making her want to be just like her.
"I'm not sure if someone like him can change, he has no reason to... but I also thought I could do better on my own, in a way, I was like him, so I won't discredit your idea," Shoto knew Ciana wanted to see the best in everyone, sometimes, that's not realistic, but she's proven to handle both choices so far, so he had no reason to tell her otherwise. "What about you, Bakugo?"
"Blank's been spouting this crap since day one, the hell if I know," Katsuki rolled his eyes. "No one changes overnight,"
She rolled her eyes at his response but otherwise chuckled from his amusing attitude. "Yeah it's true I'm usually all talk, but I'm like that because I want people to stand up for others, I don't expect anyone to change right away but that's why I keep trying no matter how much anyone wants to push me."
Now glancing over to Bakugo with her smile toward him. "Your mom actually reminded me a lot of mine Katsuki, I mean she wasn't as shouty but the way she stands her ground towards people reminds me so much of what she does around people when she tells them to back off which is cool."
"Don't give me that image!" Two of Katsuki's mom sounded like an absolute nightmare. "The old hag's been like that for years, she's had more fights than me!"
"She sounds exactly like Bakugo," The heterochromia murmured beside Ciana.
"You have no idea…" Ciana whispered back in response, giggling just by thinking back on their relationship with each other. Sounds like Bakugo might get into a lot of shouting with his counterpart too. "Say! That reminds me, I never got to see your dad. What is he like exactly? Is he really tough like you?"
Now curious of his dad, she has yet to meet him but remember Izuku mentioning he's decent
"Huh? He's nothing like me, guy doesn't put up a fight at all yet is more stubbornly patient than that damn nerd is, it drives me mad!" He ruffled up his hair, putting money on the counter for his meal, grumbling. "Tch, him and the old hag are perfect for each other..." Getting up, he shoved his hands into his pockets. "I'm leaving, this time, quit following me!"
"He stayed longer than I expected," Shoto spoke up, the ash-blonde twisting around with a murderous face.
"Shut the hell up, Icy-Hot, I came here to finally get you both off my back!" He was lying, ever since Ciana got back from another Realm her aura's gotten stronger, so poking through Katsuki's thick layer of anger is much easier.
This made Ciana really happy, her bright expression showing that. "Well I'm glad you still stuck around, I enjoyed being able to hang out with you again as well as improving our skills. Let's definitely do this again soon!" Ciana waved at her explosive friend, she clearly enjoyed his company no matter how snappy he can be.
"Whatever you say...!" He waved dismissively, leaving out the door as the pair weren't far behind, but chose not to incur his wrath further.
"So, what now?" Shoto asked, looking around. "Midoriya mentioned everyone meeting at one of the lakes for a barbecue so it's likely we'll meet Bakugo there, until then, what do we do?"
"Good question…" She places her hand on her chin in thought, Ciana has wanted to give Shoto a more fun experience. She was a bit eager to make him feel more happy. "Oh I know! How about we head back to the amusement park? There's still a few places we haven't tried, unless you wanna do something more adventurous like seeing the hero tech? Melissa showed us this really cool place that had so much high tech equipment if you haven't seen that yet."
"Maybe the second one, I'm not sure but some of the rides that were extremely fast didn't really interest me that much - oh?" He paused for a second, checking his phone, the message reading, 'you free?'. "..."
"Hm? What is it?" Blinking in surprise the way he took out his phone, she guessed someone wanted to snag his attention. "Is someone calling you to meet up?" Ciana wasn't sure who it was but not like she wanted to be a burden.
"No, they're not on the island, just..." He seemed hesitant to say, but given the air of curiosity Ciana had, Shoto slowly showed her, hiding the name with part of his hand. "...since we started talking, they would ask me for advice or just to vent, given we both have family issues, I guess,"
Scrolling back through the messages, the mystery person was ankle-deep in their own problems too. Lots of messages of them complaining about the people around them, growing frustrated and making mistakes due to recent events. But the newest string caught Ciana's eye, one in particular was a longer one.
[Blank]: I've been stuck at a crossroads for a while, over a month now. I have the people around me at school, they are... nice to be around, like you are with your friends. I feel happy, something I've only felt was a distraction, and I can see why, it's addicting. But then there's outside of school that worries me, the mistakes I've made, and... I'm worried that if I go back on the promises and commitments I've made then I'll either be torn apart or both things I have committed to will destroyed as a result of my unalignment
[Blank]: It scares me
She stared and blinked at this, this surprised her as Ciana thought Shoto didn't have any friends before when he was so distant. Unless it's a childhood friend or something. "Huh… well it's nice to see you're becoming more chatty with someone." She chuckled, but then tilted her head to process the message he received.
"Well whoever this person is he sounds like he needs your attention… this kinda reminds me of something Yuuki mentioned to me." Could they be the same person? Now that she thinks about it… Shoto and Yuuki do seem pretty acquainted and had her number… maybe this was her.
"Mm..." Shoto didn't give a verbal reply, staring at the message, then replied with, 'with a friend'. No more than ten seconds later came another speech bubble.
[Blank]: Who?
[Blank]: Midoriya, Iida, or Finley?
[Blank]: You took longer to respond, likely the last
That made Shoto flinch a bit, "T-they're perceptive..." He hesitated slightly, trying to not look at Ciana's eyes.
"Do you… want to be by yourself? If this is private then I can just head off for now, by the looks of it it seems important…" Ciana didn't want to pry, knowing she did too much of that before. If this was something between them then she understood.
His eyes flicked between his phone and her. "Is... that fine?" This wasn't something he was used to, he didn't mind her seeing what was said between him and his anonymous caller but said caller might be far more reserved to speak.
"Of course, not like I want to pry into your business. I feel bad enough that I did that too much before to make you uncomfortable." She stood up now, she was a little disappointed they couldn't hang out longer but wouldn't want to get between him and a friend who needs his emotional support. "I'll see you at the barbecue later, hope your friends doing alright whatever's going on." Giving him an understanding and usual kind smile.
"You and Midoriya have a habit of doing that, it can be annoying, but now I understand why it is you both do so, because you see a person can be better," Shoto understood that. "I'll see you later then," He raised his hand a bit to wave to her.
"Yeah sorry about that again…" Rubbing her neck sheepishly, at least she had good intentions. "Alright, see ya." She waved farewell before stepping out, now taking a little walk with her arms behind her back.
"I wonder what that was all about? Sheesh, no one can really take it easy during this break can they?" Now her thoughts drifts elsewhere, toward Izuku now. Last night they almost went the whole way again but had to pause due to still being on her period… Ciana felt so embarrassed putting Izuku through that and guessed he felt awkward after that cuz she noticed he's been a little distant today… This worried her as her brows knitted together trying to think what was up.
"I can understand wanting to hang out with the others but did that awkward night make him feel weird around me now? Or was he still bothered by what that jerk said to him?" She thought concerningly, holding her face up with her hand in wonder of his behavior. "I should ask later… I really really hope Izuku still doesn't take his dumb words seriously… I'm starting to be afraid that what he said will make him not want to be around me anymore…"
It didn't seem like her words were enough to have Izuku believe she's happy with him, Ciana frowned more at this. Wishing she could kick that blond jerk where it really hurts… There still seems to be some stressful things going on with everyone. "I wish there was something I can do to perk everyone up again… I wonder if another one of my moms songs could help? Maybe something I can ask Jiro to do with me if she's up for it, but that might be too cheesy for a barbecue…"
"What would be too cheesy?" Ciana yelped when she turned the corner to head towards the amusement park section of the Expo, only to nearly stumble back before the purplette with that constant aloof stare. Then she held up a jack. "Actually, that's just you in general, Glowstick,"
"Whoa, Jiro? What a pleasant surprise." She didn't expect the punk rock girl to be around as she thought she was with the other. "I thought you were still with the girls, what are you doing here?" It's funny to see her by herself when she's usually with their rich female friend.
At that question, Kyoka's stomach growled, making her face turn a little redder, "Ashido happened, haven't had a real bite to eat and I need 'me time', love everyone and all that but it's good to relax with me, myself, and I," She gave a lazy smile, then returned to a frown. "So, what's got you thinkin' of something 'cheesy', if it involves Green Bean... well, yeah, it usually does,"
"Well he is part of it… nothing gets by you with your super hearing." She chuckled, now walking by her punk rock friends side. "Izuku has been kinda questioning our relationship due to some jerk that came up to him and spoke negatively about us…" Ciana frowned at this, her words didn't seem to be enough to help.
"I tried to tell him none of what he said is true but… he still doesn't think he's worth anything and starting to think more he's not good enough for me…" Glancing down more sadly. "I'm worried that's going to plague his mind too much to eventually leave me…"
"Pfft, yeah, like that'll happen, guy's glued to your hip since day one..." Kyoka snorted, but eased up by nudging Ciana's side. "Hey, Midoriya's been pretty introverted if it's not about heroics and stuff, even I've seen how he acts, so trying to get him to be positive about the good things he has is tricky, I'd know, not much of a people person, and my face makes me as approachable as a landmine," She stared ahead, looking around for something to catch her eye. "Point is, best you can do is keep drilling that into him; 'course, he might just be more fixated on several things at once, only way you'll know is by askin', he'll talk to you,"
"I mean, look at what happened with you and Melissa, in the end, just a misunderstanding, and everything worked out," Turning around to walk backwards for a moment, Kyoka raised a brow at her, waiting for an answer.
"Well… yeah, but he probably would have fallen for her if he hadn't met me." She responds more playfully, there's also Urakura too. Knowing she's his second closest female friend. "It just bothers me that Izuku doesn't think he's anything special just because he had others put him down… I can understand that since of how many times people insulted him but never did I want him to believe any of it."
Ciana loved Izuku, not like she was anything special either but she sure believed Izuku is incredible. "The cheesy thing I was thinking about was singing another song to perk not only him up but the others as well who are stressing about other things, but I'm concerned that it would be too weird for a barbecue…"
Ciana took her notebook out though and skimmed to some pages she had her moms song, there was even one she's been working on lately. "I'm usually not much of a performer but my moms songs always lifted up my spirits."
"Lemme see," Walking normally again, Kyoka took the notebook to read through the music notes and sheet music, mouthing to herself as her jack pointed left toward a small outdoor food stall. Ciana turned with her, glancing at the musician digging heavily into her notes. "...composition's fine... few word changes to make it flow better... string based only?"
She felt shy discussing this especially since she isn't used to performing a lot, but perked up to hearing out an expert's opinion. "Well most of my moms songs I always do through a piano but I'm pretty sure it can work through other instruments too like a guitar." She responds, it probably be a lot more cooler performed in a different way than a soft melody.
"I see... yeah, this'll work, I brought my guitar with me anyway, so... I don't mind playing, i-if that helps," She handed the notebook back, twirling a jack around her finger, her anxiety cropping up. "N-not used to a live audience, but if it's with s-someone else, sure,"
Her eyes widen at this, eyes slightly sparkling. "R-really? You'll do this with me?" Performing a song with a friend would make this a lot more less nerve wrecking, glad to hear Jiro didn't think this was a cheesy idea. "I-I admit I'm surprised to hear you're not used to performing, you seem like the type to do a lot of concerts." Ciana is aware of her love of music, especially the kinds of instruments she played.
"N-not really, my whole family's music-crazed. My folks work in that field, so it's natural I'd pick it up too," Slowly, her anxious side started to fade with a slight smirk. "I can play a bunch of instruments, b-but singing is a private thing, I don't mind playing instruments in front of our class, well, a handful, if they ever wanted lessons, though I'm no expert,"
Kyoka quickly got her order sorted with the woman at the stand, paying quickly to get back to their conversation.
"Oh believe me, I know exactly how you feel." Ciana has always used to sing privately, from how shy she usually is the idea of performing in front of a crowd used to give her the jitters as she didn't think she sounded as good as her mom. "I used to sing all by myself, I mostly did to try and lighten my mood up when I'm down and bothered. But being able to use one of my moms songs to the whole world sure made me feel a lot more confident in myself knowing it also would lift other peoples spirits."
That day was so nerve wrecking, but Ciana was very happy to share her moms song to the world.
"I get that, it feels better by yourself, just... too nerve-wracking to think about," Kyoka shivered a bit, receiving her order with a thanks. Holding up three skewers lined with seasoned meat chunks, peppers, and other vegetables, she took a section off in one swipe, chewing with a delighted sigh of relief. "...much better, okay, I'm all set; So, my awesome guitar skills, and your beautiful singing voice, we ought to make this a pretty rockin' afternoon, wanna head back to the hotel to practice? And also talk about your boy problems, I guess," She jokingly rolled her eyes at the end.
"I-I rather not be that annoying when it comes to that kind of topic…" she chuckled, rubbing the back of her neck. "But yeah, let's go do some practicing! Would be so much fun!" Ciana clapped her hands together excitedly, the idea of doing a concert with Jiro would be awesome. "But hey! I like to hear your vocals too at least, I bet you sound just as good."
Ciana wondered what Jiros own voice is like but she can imagine her voice is as talented as her own instrument playing.
"W-we'll see, dunno..." She was reluctant to do anything close to singing, she'd much rather stick to providing the instrumental touch to this. Finishing her first skewer, she pointed the stick at Ciana's nose. "And if you somehow convince me to, not a word to anyone else, especially Ashido," More for her own peace of mind.
She blinked, but otherwise chuckled at her shy remark. "Alright alright I won't say a word, how about you at least do some of the background singing? I still like for you to be a part of this as much as me." Ciana wanted Jiro to rise as a star too, but even if it's not now Ciana had a feeling one day she too will come out of her shell. This was a good step for her too.
"No promises, Glowstick," She grunted, yanking off half the food on the second skewer, chewing with delight. "Nnw, onwrt!" The musician pointed forward with her meal, expression unchanged.
Returning to the hotel, Ciana joined Kyoka in her shared room with Yaoyorozu and Uraraka, who were still out, giving them much needed privacy to work on the song to play for their class later. It was short and simple, just something to get everyone in the mood while food cooked. While Ciana worked on refining the lyrics, Kyoka plucked a few strings on her guitar, adjusting the sound with several pieces of sheet music before her legs.
It felt pretty new to sing one of her moms song in a different way, usually they were mostly written to be soft melodies. But changing it up a little to be more rock and roll was interesting to do something new, Jiro's guitar playing made this all the more punk rock.
Ciana did her best to sing the song in a higher pitch and even sung some parts Jiro suggested to do in a certain way to make the melody more rocking. Once again Ciana never pictured herself performing in front of a crowd but doing this with a friend makes this more exciting but still a tad bit nerve wrecking due to still getting used to it.
"If I had more of my equipment, we'd have better variety..." Biting on the end of her pencil, Kyoka revised a few notes. "But string-based guitar still can work wonders, plus, it's a barbecue so I'm not entirely worried about performing a masterpiece with only a few hours practice,"
"I doubt we could play more than one instrument when it's just the two of us anyways, only instrument I know how to play is a piano… but at least the song isn't too long enough to need more people, I wonder if Kaminari knows how to play anything now that I think about it?" Kaminari dresses a bit punk rock himself and has his electric Quirk, it made Ciana wonder if he has any instrument skills himself.
"But so far we're doing great! Especially the way you turn this song into something more awesome! I'm sure my mom would have loved to meet you if she was here to hear this." Ciana beamed with another sparkly going in her eyes.
"Heh, it's just some minor tweaks..." Kyoka remarked bashfully, a small smile forming, playing fragments of the song slowly. "Your mom left parts incomplete, guess she either couldn't finish them or... probably wanted you to; my folks did that to test me a bunch of times on my sheet writing, saying 'a song is a story, the instruments are the groundwork, while the lyrics are the road', something like that anyway,"
She perked up in surprise at this, taking her notebook to look back on the lyrics. "Really? Incomplete? I-I always thought it was just short and sweet… if that's true then I guess she never got to finish before she…" Her expression saddened a little knowing that horrible day that happened, it still traumatized her to witness… but does recall her mom saying she hoped she would come up with her own songs one day.
Turning to another page, this song was something she had been working on expressing her own feelings for Izuku. It was kinda cheesy but wasn't perfect yet to show him… the idea had her flush pink just singing this in front of him.
"Yeah, judging by the dates, some she didn't finish on purpose, 'course, I'm assuming since... y'know," Kyoka didn't want to bring it up, but instead, she smirked, leaning back on her pillows. "This song you've got us doing is new though, yours for a certain someone? Probably the sweetest, most corny thing I can imagine - though, way to spin the cliché, not often the girl writes for the guy in this case,"
"Huh? O-oh no! T-this is just another one of my moms songs she wrote herself. B-but I have been writing something… I-it's not ready yet but it's super cheesy…" She blushed a lot more, if she performed this song instead then everyone would know of her feelings for Izuku which would be embarrassing for them to tease them about…
"Ahem," Raising her head to Kyoka, she saw the purplette gesturing for Ciana to offer her the notebook again. Clearly, she wanted to look over it. "Relax, you know me well enough by now I'm not Ashido, and I value my musical talents in peace most of the time, Lava Lamp,"
"I-I know b-but it's still pretty cheesy…" Sitting on the bed crossed leg while rubbing the back of her head. "I-it's something I was writing mostly for myself, not sure if that's a song I ever would do in public…"
Kyoka read the detailed scribbles and notes surrounding the song itself. Her focus was as sharp as a knife, tracing every detail in silence. A pin could be dropped and make more noise. Blinking once, Kyoka smiled again, "'Cheesy' isn't even the right word..." Chuckling a little, Kyoka handed the book back. "It's good, definitely screams 'you', if you're afraid he's doubting himself, think that might just be the right hook he needs,"
"I-I might perform it to him one day, j-just need to get it right before doing anything." Clutching her notes to her chest, Ciana smiled bashfully just revealing some of her own lyrics. "B-but the one we are doing is perfect enough because it's a message to pull through and not let anyone or anything tell us we're not worth anything."
It is one of her moms encouraging songs, she felt this would definitely get everyone pumped up to keep pushing forward.
"I'll do my part, owe it to the writer," Kyoka winked, checking over her notes to start from the beginning again, biting on the end of her right jack gently. "When camp's over, I'll let ya see my room, got a bunch of instruments to try, including a proper piano since the one I got you isn't as big as my own electric one, though I prefer classical, better sound quality."
"I look forward to it." The girl smiled and nodded, maybe she could even sing her song to Izuku when they have a break during camp… hopefully by then she will finish her song, until then she's got a rocking song planned out for everyone.
"Alright! So anything else we need to work on?" Now back to focusing on the one they are performing, Ciana even has an outfit picked out when she does sing it with Jiro to stand out better.
"Practice your vocals, then our timing, though the last one should come naturally if we've rehearsed enough," Kyoka tapped a jack to her notes and Ciana's. "I've got the melody almost down pat, all I need is to repeat it once in full then I should have it."
"Okay, let's see if I can manage to pull most of it off…" Holding her lyrics up to read, Ciana practices singing certain words in different ways. Even repeating some, though now wondered where they will perform this? She knows they are going to the lake beach but wasn't sure if they have a stage or figure their own way to perform.
"Keep your pitch soft, and slow down just a bit; since we're using a classical guitar it'll need to match my rhythm," Kyoka instructed, her face turning a little pinker, clearing her throat. "Like this... 'Seeking out... Every lie I hear about, tears and time, they pass by, I say goodbye. Everything is on the line, but I'll never know unless I try...',"
Ciana's eyes widened at this in her own voice, it was amazing how she sang the version. It was more pretty than she imagined. "Whoa! Your voice is better than I imagine, you got to sing parts of this song Jiro! You've be amazing!"
Kyoka's cheeks went redder, shaking her head quickly, "N-no, no, I'm g-good on my part; a-and not in front of people, ever," Singing was exclusive to herself only, this was a one-off. But Ciana's eyes remained wide with encouragement. "S-stop giving me that look..."
"Oh pleaaase?! You don't have to sing the full lyrics but part of it as a background vocalist at least, think how totally punk rock this would be just from your own voice doing this together!" Ciana beamed excitingly and eagerly, now really wanting to sing part of it as well.
"Look..." Kyoka raised her voice a bit, wrapping her jacks around herself. "...I... haven't sung for anyone since I was really young, I don't... do that anymore, not publicly - y-you can, and you're awesome at it, but... that's not me, music is just a hobby, 'my' hobby, I-I don't mind playing for people, teaching people, but not this,"
Ciana frowned a bit at this, she can understand where she's coming from since she too was incredibly shy doing this. Maybe she's pushing this too much… still would be a good start for her though. "Are you sure? Not even just as the background vocalist?" Ciana wouldn't want to push this on her.
Sighing, Kyoka pulled her guitar back into her lap, playing her own tune now to relax. "It would be cool, really, but the idea of singing in front of people again is too nerve-wracking, worse, I can tell when a person lies, so even just the idea someone, anyone, would lie to save my feelings isn't something I need to hear, sorry," Lowering her gaze to her instrument, she muttered. "Until UA... it was just me, outside of my parents, I did everything alone, so that lifestyle sticks... to my own detriment, clearly,"
"I know how that feels…" Ciana smiles in understanding, even if it's not now she is sure Jiro will reveal her own amazing voice. "Well alright, if this isn't something you feel you're not ready for then I won't push it. Who knows, maybe once we perform this song this will give you the courage to sing your own one day." That is her moms message in this after all, it's supposed to be heartfelt and encouraging.
"We'll see, I guess," Kyoka lightened up a little again. "Sorry to be a mood kill, just... bad social skills," She awkwardly missed a few notes, cursing under her breath at her awkwardness.
This had her chuckle, she at least was happy enough she's still playing this song with her. "No worries I totally get it, not like I'm perfect either." Now holding up her lyrics again. "Alright! Let's continue then, it's almost night out and we need to be fully prepared for the surprise everyone will get from us." The girl once again beamed, ready to give this song all her might…
"Wait-wait-wait, it's what?" Reaching out to snatch her phone from beside her, Kyoka pulled up the time, and her eyes expanded. "Crap! We're gonna be late; All Might and the rest said we'd gather fifteen minutes from now! We probably sat here longer than we thought..."
"Has time moved by that fast?!" Ciana panicked, already grabbing her outfit off her bed to get ready. "W-we better get a move on then! I'm sure I got everything down and learned so I'm sure I can memorize everything quick enough when I perform." Having a white top with a black shoulder strap and a black skirt with a plaid grey pattern on the side as well as white strappy sandals. Ciana wasted no time in getting a move on, placing her notebook back in her bag.
"Crap-crap-crap...!" Kyoka gathered up the sheet music, stuffing it into her guitar case, placing the instrument inside to flatten them down. Swinging it over her shoulders, she yanked her phone and other needed things. "Alright, grab and go, we'll work it out on the fly! Move it, double time!" She panicked, stumbling over herself a bit towards the door.
Already changed and her stuff packed in her handbag, Ciana rushed out with Jiro. "I-I hope we didn't miss out on anything!" She responds as they ran, next time she's having a timer set on her phone to not lose track of time…
"We will if we don't move!" The purplette yelled, shutting the door behind them quickly, adjusting the weight on her back to run with Ciana.
"Hah... hah... made it...!" Kyoka and Ciana were panting by the time they arrived, seeing the others gathered at a beach house, all of them hanging around with drinks while All Might helped prep the food, all noticing the two late arrivals. "Who... makes the meet-up... halfway... across this stupid island?" Kyoka rasped, brow twitching in annoyance.
"I must apologize, Young Jiro, Finley, I had asked Melissa of this and she said this was the only one left unreserved, haha!" All Might chuckled. "Come now, you haven't missed anything yet,"
"Yeah, a few of us only arrived five minutes before you," Eijiro waved them over, handing out drinks. "Take a seat,"
Now sitting down, exhausted from the jog. Ciana accepted the soda can thankfully and let out a breath. "T-this whole place seems so busy so I probably should've expected that…" Taking a sip of her can, glad to not have missed anything fun at least.
Looking around, they had a large deck, several grills set up to cook before the beach. "So hey, Jiro?" Ashido pipped up, drawing her aloof gaze. "What's with the guitar case? You gonna perform?"
Kyoka made no verbal reply, waving a jack between her and Ciana. Setting the case down, she popped it open to check over her strings again. "...need to adjust them..." She muttered, fiddling with the instrument.
Glancing at her punk rock friend beside her, she gave off a smile knowing this is supposed to be a surprise. "You'll find out…" Ciana responds to Ashido with a wide grin, then looks around to see if Izuku was in the group. Ciana spotted him talking to Melissa, times like this she would feel jealous. Maybe still slightly is… but knew they had a lot in common and could be catching up after everything.
"Surprised he didn't even notice I arrived… I guess he got distracted with hero talk is my guess." Only thing she was worried about was how awkward Izuku felt around her, Ciana still hoped he wasn't a bit distant due to what the blond red eyed jerk said.
That's when Kyoka jabbed her arm with a jack. "Don't make it weird," She nodded toward the pair, smirking. "If he doesn't listen, I can punch him if you want?"
Straightens up at this, Ciana giggles from her encouraging talk. "That won't be necessary but you can at least zap him if you have to…" She remarked playfully, Izuku did need to get with the program. Putting her smile back on for everyone, taking another big gulp of her soda can.
"Feel we're missing something here...?" Eijiro smiled nervously, Ashido just shrugged to him, clueless herself.
"If Jiro's threatening someone, it's probably because they deserve it," The pinkette giggled.
Just then, Melissa and Izuku made their way over to them. "Ciana, it's nice to see you again, sorry for not really chatting much, still looking out for Papa," Melissa apologized a bit with a smile.
"Todoroki told me you and him competed with Kacchan, sounds like you bit the bullet for me, again," Izuku scratched the back of his head sheepishly.
Happy to see the two finally come over, Ciana gave a smile and a wave. "I wasn't sure if it was me covering for you but it was a lot of fun trying out what you guys did." Definitely a great warm up for her, she wasn't above Bakugo or Todoroki but still had fun regardless.
Her attention now on Melissa. "It's alright I can get needing to be there for you dad, I hope he's still doing alright and not injured any further." Ciana had worried for him, not just for his well-being but his and All Might's relationship. But she had a feeling deep down All Might understood he meant well thinking about him.
"Papa's doing better, he's under house arrest given they're still investigating," Melissa's smile was a little sad, but that feeling passed. "Anyway, its your last afternoon on the island, Uncle Might said your flights home are later tonight so let's have as much fun as possible!"
Happy to hear that, Ciana did want to make this last day special. Her fist raised cheerfully. "You don't need to tell me twice! I'm not missing out on a single moment being here!" Being together with everyone just makes this even better, looking forward to what she will be doing with Jiro soon.
While everyone waited for food to be cooked, Izuku sat beside Ciana for a bit off to the side, staring at the lake. "Um, I-I could hear Jiro mention wanting to p-punch me, did I... do something wrong somehow? I feel I have that ability without knowing it, hehe," Izuku chuckled to himself, cocking his head to look at his girlfriend. "Are you okay?"
"Hm? You heard that? Oh sorry… I admit I was more worried about you." Fiddling with her soda can in hand, Ciana now eyed him concerningly with a little smile. "I actually wanted to ask the same thing… Are you alright? You've been a little distant this morning…"
"I was? O-our friends wanted us to hang out with them for the day, then you got that text from Kacchan, so I assumed you were with him and Todoroki for the most part, then you ended up spending most of your afternoon with Jiro," He frowned a bit, "I'm fine, if this is a-about... you-know-what, I completely understand your reasons, honest,"
"Hm? Were you upset thinking I was feeling awkward around you?" She asked with a curious tilt of her head and her brows narrowed. "I mean cuz if that's it then it didn't have anything to do with you but more myself."
"It... was one of my concerns, yes," He sat up a little straighter. "Considering where we were, you were vulnerable, so I thought you'd like having time to just be to yourself, I was told it helps to have that moment to think alone. But, what made you feel awkward about yourself?"
"Izuku, last night I was still on… you know." Even if they are by themselves she didn't want to take the chance of Jiro hearing anything personal. "I was embarrassed that I forgot about it and put you in a weird situation, it had nothing to do with you." Ciana was bleeding and was humiliated she had to get him caught up in something gross below.
"But also I didn't mean when we had to split up to do other things, I more meant this morning you were kinda averting your eyes from me and gave off an uneasy expression… I thought you were the one that felt awkward around me after that night." Even when they eventually went to sleep Ciana noticed Izuku has been awake staring at the ceiling and burying his nose in his notes… he even looked slightly mad as she guessed he was still upset after what the guy said while she secretly had one eye open to see all that.
Her expression turned more worried now recalling his behavior. "I could tell you have been stressing about yourself…"
Looking around at their friends, Izuku gave it some thought before he could find his voice. "The last three days have been a lot for me, about my place in our relationship, what I'm committed to, and other things," Leaning forward a bit, he cupped his hands, staring at the water not far away. "But this was the first time someone's threatened that in a different way, attacking my insecurities, something no quirk can strengthen,"
"I'm not sure I'll be entirely the person I was years ago, in a way, I'm glad that's the case, 'cause it just gives me a reason to prove everyone that's put me down wrong. I don't plan on letting what I have now be taken from me, no matter how hectic or dangerous it gets," He ran his hand up to his locket, playing with it again. "So, you don't need to worry, I'll be alright, I just had a lot to think about since yesterday,"
"Izuku…" Ciana stared towards him with much worry and care, her expression still held a lot of concern but then perked up into a little smile for him. "Well I hope after this you'll feel more confident in yourself, there's never a day I regret being with you Izuku." Eyes closed and head tilted cutely with her usual bright smile showing. "After all, you're my greatest strength to overcome anything."
He felt his gaze linger on her face, smiling too, "Guess we share the same strength then," Leaning into her side, Izuku didn't particularly care they were around their friends, this afternoon already felt much lighter with that off his chest. "So, why were you and Jiro late?"
"That's a secret meant to be revealed for later…" Leaning against him as well, her smile perked up wider with a giggle. "Let's just say I had something planned out special for you and everyone here…"
Izuku opened his mouth to guess but decided against it, seeing as it had her buzzing with excitement. Meanwhile, All Might was busy, setting the kabobs onto every grill set in place, moving around quickly to ensure there were more than enough, the rest taking over in ensuring they were cooking properly. Those that didn't have confidence in their abilities sat around and waited, chatting with one another. Kaminari, Sero, Eijiro, and Katsuki sat at a table, dealing cards out.
While they were distracted, her and Jiro were getting things ready when no one was looking… checking over her lyrics to make sure she doesn't forget anything. "Okay, so you think were prepared to do this?" Ciana was a bit nervous but having a friend by her side gave her more confidence.
"Not in the slightest," Kyoka remarked dryly, strumming once. "But, no fun it wasn't a challenge, right?"
"I guess you have a point." She chuckled, Ciana guessed she was nervous too. "But! That's the power of music, it always gives you the feeling to feel more pumped for anything!" Ciana beamed, raising her fist more cheerfully. "We just gotta go beyond plus ultra like All Might says!"
"As your best friend, just so you know, I will never understand your way of thinking," Pinching the bridge of her nose, Kyoka let out a quick huff, pulling the strap of her guitar over her head, holding tightly. Putting on a serious face, a faint blush resided on the rocker's cheeks. "Ready, Glowstick?"
Holding up a mic Jiro lent her, she chuckled before giving a confident nod and smile. "You bet! Let's get this party started!" Having what they need basically only an amp to bring out more of the music, Ciana was ready to give this song all her might…
All Might was informed of this like last time Ciana did something similar, he gave them the go-ahead, using himself to block anyone's view of the pair now standing at the door frame into the small beach house. Once revealed, most were drawn away from their conversations to Jiro's extended introduction, playing softly with her focus on the instrument in her hands, watching Ciana tap her foot to keep her timing right.
Taking a breath, Ciana smiled for a moment to everyone, then, her gaze became heavy, falling into the lyrics.
~Cut straight through the illusion! And soar from the confusion, To a blue-sky revolution, Let it go and sing your heart out! Don't you sweat, the regret!~
~Make way,
Make way,~
~Everyday, a future in the making. So give the fight, All your might...~
The class remained silent, still caught off guard by the sudden performance. The girls were all silently gushing over the collaboration between the two polar opposite teens. As for the boys, most sat in wonder, smiling while following the beat Kyoka strummed together, Eijiro was emotional, like always, Katsuki barely showed much change but did keep his eyes on them.
~Seeking out... Every lie I hear about, Tears and time, they pass by.~
~I say goodbye! Everything is on the line, But i'll never know unless I try...~
Ciana clutched the microphone, now the dragon was merging out of her again with her traits rising out and looking bright along with the glow in her beastly eyes. As she sang some glowing light orbs surrounded everyone around her, Ciana eyed Izuku with a loving smile, pointing her finger to the crowd.
~Every time you fail, Every time you cry… Make it so, It only makes you stronger!~
Now her finger rising up to the sky, getting into the groove as Ciana sang out the next part with a lot of heart.
~Cut straight through the illusion! And soar from the confusion, To a blue-sky revolution. Let it go and sing your heart out! Don't you sweat, the regret~
Izuku was enthralled by her voice again, feeling like his chest was on fire listening to her, he didn't even pay any mind to the motes of light or her radiant form, simply staring back at her gently. That stranger was dead wrong, and every worry and fear he accumulated on himself faded away at the young woman's angelic pitch.
~Make way,
Make way~
~Can't forsake the future when it's this bright? So give the fight, All your might!~
Kyoka kept the pace slow enough for Ciana to follow along, a small smirk tugging at her lips. With the final verse over, Kyoka wrapped up her piece, standing beside Ciana with one final strum, flexing her fingers while taking a breath.
"AMAZING!" The whole class erupted with applause.
"It was like those lyrics were speaking to my soul...!" Eijiro rubbed an arm over his eyes.
"So beautiful~!" Ashido cooed loudly.
"That was... wow," Sero chuckled, a bit taken back.
"You can say that again," Sato nodded, completely at a loss for words.
"Jiro, Finely~!" Hagakure leapt at them, hugging the two of them close by the neck. "You two are so-so-so cool!"
"Hagakure... lungs..." Kyoka wheezed, feeling the arm release her, face still flustered red. "I-it was nothing, all Finley's idea anyway, I just provided the instrumental,"
"I-I just thought after this trip this would get us more pumped when we head back to UA." Scratching her cheek shyly but smiling with pink cheeks. "I wanted our final night on this island to be more memorable."
"And what fortuitous timing you two!" All Might declared, holding out several skewers with mouth-watering food stuck on them. "Our food is ready, now, let us enjoy today's feast!"
"YEAH!" Several jumped at the chance, now the energy in the air flowed into Ciana, feeling the waves of positive emotions swirl around her sight. All different shades of colour from her friends were accumulating, but one stood out most, the forest green that approached with a tender expression.
"I don't think I'll ever get used to hearing your singing voice... it was beautiful," Izuku praised softly, thankful he recorded it this time.
Now sitting down beside Izuku, her attention now back on him as her heart flutters and turns a faint red in the face. Smiling shyly once again. "T-thanks! This is the first time I even performed something more punk rock like how Jiro likes to put it." Chuckling after that, having another soda can in hand.
"Right, you mentioned your mom's songs were meant more for the piano, so I guess an acoustic guitar would be strange to shift towards," He assumed, bringing over two pairs of kebabs for them, Kyoka now talking with Koda by one of the grills. "For your first time doing so, you both were really in sync,"
Nodding a thanks to him along with a smile, now taking a few bites of her meal as they still talked. "I-I think so too, it was a lot of fun doing this with a friend this time. I hope now you feel more confident and inspired after that." Perking up, wanting to perk him and everyone up as much as her.
"Well, I definitely feel better, thank you," He replied, enjoying the meal as the rest laughed alongside Melissa. "I think Melissa really seemed to love your song too, after everything that's happened, your song really helped her too - maybe like Jiro, music like yours can help people too,"
"That's what I hoped to be able to do." Still smiling as she eyed her friends around her. "That's what my mom likes doing too, she told me she had a passion for music since she was a toddler. She always said that it gives a good feel and message for everyone to encourage those to shine a light for a better future." Ciana slipped her hairpin out of her hair to fiddle around with it.
"Listening to what she wrote gave me a passion for them as well, I'm glad to be able to make everyone feel good like she wanted. Especially to you." Glancing back at her hero with a loving expression.
"She'd definitely be happy to see you doing as great as her," He encouraged, then his expression became lighter. "Hey, now that your power's grown... maybe you can sense her aura like you said you could in Crescent Shores? Maybe she heard you and Jiro play?" It was a long-shot, but maybe... "S-sorry, if that sounds insensitive."
"Hm?" She blinked at the sudden remark, looking up to the sky as she tried to think back how she felt. "Well… singing my moms songs always made me feel warm inside, last time when I heard her voice I was kinda almost dead then…" That moment was terrifying, she thought she was almost crossing over to the after life. "Only new difference I feel is when I feel my changes emerging, which is still freaky…"
Sweat dropping at that, not sure why singing brings the dragon out of her as she never heard of a dragon that could sing.
"R-right, forgot that part, never mind, well, you already know she is anyway," He replied; Izuku really wasn't great at this, ever. Sighing, he swallowed the last of his second kebab, the small kick of spice making him parched. "How have you been feeling regarding your power? I never asked this morning if you were feeling better?"
"I'm still working through it." Placing her hairpin back in her hair and then throwing the empty stick aside. "I'll keep working on my instincts… I'll be sure to get them under control." Now staring out to the lake, still not likening the thought of becoming a different person. "I'm still not sure if I can completely trust in my own abilities… I'm still worried I'll lose myself forever if I let it do as it pleased…"
"If it wanted to, it certainly had her chances, don't you think?" Izuku referred to Ciana's low point, where she had no trust in herself whatsoever, the perfect chance for anyone to trick her. "Give it a chance, if it's a part of you, wouldn't it make sense to at least understand first?"
"I guess so…" Her brows knitted together in an uncertain manner, leaning her head on his shoulder. "It seems to mostly come out when it comes to cuddling up to you though…" Her instinct do go primal when it comes to her love for Izuku, mating instincts are still so creepy…
"Not really comfortable with that..." Came his sigh, wrapping an arm around her for a brief hug. "You'll get your answers sooner or later, just... have patience, I guess," For the time being, they didn't need to think about it. Standing up, he offered his hand to her. "Let's go see what the others are talking about, or whatever it is some of them are playing at the table,"
Looking up to him, seeing how Izuku looks in the background from the night twinkling sky and pretty lake… he could never look more beautiful in her eyes, smiling warmly and happily while blushing pink, Ciana took hold of her hero's hand. "Okay! Whatever they are doing I assume it will be fun knowing them." Ciana is going to miss this island, hoping one day they can come back.
Spending the rest of their afternoon together, they sat around talking or playing cards, even beating All Might a few times which came as a surprise for some that Eijiro and Kaminari were very good players if luck sided with them. Melissa joined in too, sharing in the loud nightlife with them, fireworks going off for the final day's conclusion.
Those present at the Central Tower had experienced a fight like no other, overcame tribulations and succeeded. Despite the darker start to their time at I-Island, it was an experience they'd never forget. All raised their drinks in cheers, embers from the grills scattering towards the starry sky.
Author note
MHA song | Sora Ni Utaeba - Amalee