Chapter 28 Breaking free
The night before the confrontation
In her dream, Ibara floated blissfully among the clouds, her vine-like wings shimmering against the ethereal backdrop. The serene silence of the heavens was comforting, a stark contrast to the bustling life at U.A. High. As she landed softly on a fluffy cloud, her peace was abruptly disturbed by a dark figure that materialized behind her. With a swift motion, it wrapped an arm around her waist and tackled her to the cloud below.
Startled, Ibara looked up to see the broccoli demon—the twisted, dream-version of Izuku with wild eyes and pointed, devilish horns. His gaze was hungry, unsettlingly intense. She pushed against him, her voice tinged with accusation and fear. "You desert-like demon, trying to tempt me!"
He smiled wickedly, his demeanor unnerving. "What's wrong? You already showed me everything before. It's time I claimed what I want," he said, his voice low and dangerous as he leaned closer, placing a hand under her chin.
Ibara fought the paralysis of fear that gripped her in the dream, turning her head away defiantly. "Sinner," she hissed, her voice a mix of revulsion and defiance.
The demon chuckled, his actions bold and unwelcome as he smacked her on the behind. "Oh yes, I am a sinner, and so are you, darling," he taunted.
Her face flushed with anger and embarrassment. She swung her hand at him, but he caught it effortlessly, holding her soft hand against his cheek while his other hand lingered under her chin. "A beautiful, strong woman like you, and all you do is hide away who you truly are. Shameful. Live a little, have some fun with me, come on."
Ibara shook her head vigorously, her voice firm. "I am devoted to God."
His smile only widened, as he kissed her cheek lightly. "And I'm devoted to beautiful women like you. Little things that I could play with," he whispered seductively into her ear, his breath warm against her skin.
She recoiled, moving back with a scowl on her face. "I will not be tempted," she declared resolutely.
He chuckled softly, a sound that echoed ominously around them. "You may not think so, but I think you're holding yourself back. Isn't that right?"
Determined, Ibara shoved him away with surprising strength, pushing him onto the cloud. "I am not holding myself back. I give everything to God," she countered, her voice rising in a crescendo of conviction.
The demon tilted his head, his expression mockingly sympathetic. "You give everything to God, but what does God give to you? Painful lessons, huh? We both know how much you suffer."
She was taken aback by his words, but her resolve didn't waver. "I suffer because I stray from God's path," she asserted.
With a swift, predatory movement, he blitzed behind her, pulling her closer. His hands were bold as he lifted her dress slightly, revealing scars that marred her otherwise ethereal form. "A little bird in a flock. Every temptation, every stray, they add a scar, don't they?" he murmured, his fingers tracing the lines of her past wounds gently yet intrusively.
Ibara stood firm, clutching her dress to her chest, her gaze fixed on the demon who continued to haunt her dream. "That's because I strayed from God, that's why they added these scars—it was my fault," she declared with a mix of defiance and resignation.
The demon's expression softened, an unusual sadness in his eyes as he countered gently, "It's not your fault. It's never your fault. You're human."
Ibara paused, caught off guard by his tone—soft and understanding, so at odds with his fearsome appearance. Her resolve wavered momentarily, but she quickly steeled herself. "I am human, but I must be better," she insisted, her voice trembling slightly with determination.
The demon shook his head, sadness morphing into a pained empathy. "Ibara, you are a kind one. I hate to see those scars on your body. Everyone strays eventually; nobody's perfect, because if they were, they would be God, wouldn't they? Don't put this on yourself, this punishment you think you deserve. You shouldn't take it."
She stood up more resolutely. "I would rather take it than succumb to you and become a sinner."
"Is that what you see me? A sinner?" the demon stepped closer, his form blurring at the edges, the monstrous features softening. "Do you not see the kindness I've been giving to others? Do not see the good that I have been providing them, the smiles that I have placed on their faces? You have seen it, right?" he asked, his voice pleading for understanding.
Ibara avoided his gaze, her own convictions battling the unexpected kindness in his words. "You are just using those women for your own little playthings. I will not buy into that. I mustn't. I will protect them, I will release them," she declared, her voice echoing with a mixture of fear and resolve.
As the demon moved closer, his form shifted dramatically; the horns receded, the tail disappeared, and the menacing grin faded. Placing his hand gently under her chin, he compelled her to look at him. "Am I really a demon in your eyes, or am I a human who's trying to help others but you can't see that because it doesn't fit into your god's plan?"
She stepped back, her heart conflicted. "I don't know what you're trying to do," she admitted, her voice softening.
He smiled, a sincere and gentle expression that seemed to strip away the remnants of the nightmare. "I just want to help people. I want to be a hero, you know that. Those two girls—they needed help, and I provided my services to help them."
Ibara turned to face him, her expression torn as she saw the kindness and gentleness in his eyes, his demeanor calm and relaxed as if reaching out with soft words. However, she shook her head, turning away once more. "No, you're just using them, and I will prove it, and I will defeat you," she asserted, pointing a finger at him defiantly.
He reached out, gently grasping her finger that pointed at his chest. "Don't worry, I'll get rid of the scars one day," he said with a tender smile, his words echoing in her mind.
As the morning light filtered through her window, Ibara sat up, clutching her chest, the weight of the dream heavy upon her. Was it truly just a dream, or a reflection of her deepest fears and desires? The question haunted her as she prepared for the day, the memory of the dream's gentle yet unsettling conclusion echoing in her mind.
Morning breakfast
As the morning sun streamed through the windows of the orphanage, Ibara moved with practiced grace in the kitchen, the scent of cooking eggs filling the air. She was at peace here, serving the children who looked to her not just for nourishment but also for comfort and guidance. She smiled as the kids eagerly scooped up the eggs onto their plates, her hands deftly serving rice into bowls before joining them at the long dining table.
A man in a clerical collar descended the stairs, his presence commanding yet comforting. He approached the table with a warm smile. "Thank you, Ibara, for preparing the meal," he said, his voice carrying a gentle authority.
She nodded, her voice soft, "Thank you, Father, for guiding me on the right path."
"Yes, I am happy to do so, my child. Now, let us pray," he responded, extending his hands to those next to him. The room fell into a respectful silence as everyone clasped hands, bowing their heads in prayer before starting their meal.
As they ate, the priest's previously warm expression shifted to one of concern. "Ibara, we need to talk," he said abruptly, causing her to freeze, her utensil pausing mid-air.
Father's gaze was unsettling, intense. "Have I done something inappropriate?" Ibara asked, her voice barely a whisper, laden with anxiety.
"I've just been worried about you," he continued, ignoring her question initially. "I have heard you've been whispering someone's name in your sleep. Have you had impure thoughts?" His tone was now probing, demanding truth.
Her heart raced, the tranquility of the morning shattered. "None, of course. I've had an encounter with a boy at school, that's all. He's a sinful creature," she protested quickly, hoping to dispel any doubts about her integrity.
But instead of reassurance, the sound of a hand slamming against the table echoed through the room, making everyone jump. The father stood up, his movements deliberate as he walked slowly behind Ibara, placing his hands on her shoulders. His touch was heavy, his presence overwhelming.
"Are you telling me everything, sweet child?" he pressed, his voice low and steady, yet filled with an intensity that made her skin crawl.
She trembled under his gaze, stuttering, "Yes, yes, Father."
He leaned closer, his breath cold against her ear. "Because some of the nights, I've heard you call out his name in a lustful manner. Care to explain what type of dreams you've been having?"
Ibara looked down, a deep shame coloring her cheeks. "I'm sorry, I'm so sorry. I was weak to the flesh for a moment. I am very sorry," she murmured, her voice choked with emotion.
The father's grip tightened, his voice barely a whisper, yet it filled the space around them with a chilling air. "Turn around," he commanded.
She shivered, unable to move, her body frozen by fear and the weight of her perceived sins.
"I see, shameful," the father murmured, his voice tinged with disappointment. His steps echoed in the quiet room as he moved away from the table, returning moments later with an old, worn box which he placed heavily on the table. "Head to the closet and pray ten times for God to save you," he instructed solemnly.
Ibara nodded, her heart heavy with dread and resignation. She reached out with trembling hands to open the box and recoiled slightly at the sight of the Latin flagellum, a whip used for penance. Taking a deep breath to steady her nerves, she removed her jacket and shirt, preparing herself for the act of contrition.
As she gathered her hair to keep it away from her back, Ibara whispered a prayer, her voice a mixture of fear and fervor, asking for forgiveness and strength. Then, with a resolute grimace, she cracked the whip across her back, the sound sharp in the enclosed space. Each strike was accompanied by a soft cry of pain, her resolve not to falter keeping her arm steady until she had completed her penance.
When she finished, she opened the closet door, her face pale and her eyes glistening with unshed tears. The father placed his hand gently on her back, and his touch glowed with a soft, healing light. As the physical wounds closed, leaving only faint scars, he intoned, "These are reminders of your sin. Once you're pure, I will remove them, but that journey is a long one, especially now. I order you to confront this demon head-on, show him his place."
He encouraged her with a soft voice, trying to infuse her with courage and resolve. "I will, Father. In the name of God, I will," Ibara responded, managing a smile that seemed happy and genuine to anyone who might observe. However, beneath the surface, a storm of emotions raged, anger, frustration, and a growing resentment mixed with the determination to fulfill what she perceived as her divine mission.
Resuming her seat at the breakfast table, she finished her meal in silence, her mind replaying the painful events and the upcoming confrontation she had been charged with.
Back on the rooftop.
as she watched Izuku disappear into the distance, Ibara contemplated her next steps. She was resolved to save him from his perceived sinfulness, to prove to herself and her father that she could overcome this challenge, and bring redemption not just to Izuku but also to herself.
Ibara's focus was unwavering as she mulled over her strategy. The woods she had in mind were dense and sprawling, perfect for the kind of battle she envisioned. She needed to gain the upper hand by preparing the battlefield with her quirk. She hastily scribbled a letter to Izuku, giving him directions to a secluded forest near the park, a place where she planned to challenge him and prove her convictions. She finished her lunch heading back to class.
After placing the letter on Izuku's desk, she attended her classes with a restless energy, her mind constantly on the upcoming confrontation. As soon as the final bell rang, she hurried to the park.
The park
Utilizing her quirk, she manipulated the vines beneath the earth, creating a network of traps and hidden strike points from which she could launch her attacks. Satisfied with her preparations, she donned her hero outfit and waited.
After placing the letter on Izuku's desk, she attended her classes with a restless energy, her mind constantly on the upcoming confrontation. As soon as the final bell rang, she hurried to the park. Utilizing her quirk, she manipulated her vines beneath the earth, creating a network of traps and hidden strike points from which she could launch her attacks. Satisfied with her preparations, she donned her hero outfit and waited.
Izuku arrived on time, the letter in hand, dressed in his distinctive green Yakuza suit. His eyes widened slightly in appreciation as he took in her appearance. "Wow, you look beautiful today," he complimented, his voice carrying a hint of amusement.
Ibara felt a blush creep up her cheeks, but she quickly composed herself. "Good to see that you didn't run off. Now, are you going to take your punishment like a man, or are you going to run away like a sinner?" she challenged, her tone firm.
Izuku smiled, unphased by her stern demeanor. "I think I'm just gonna, you know, beat you and take you out for a good time," he replied casually, his confidence clear.
She sneered, her voice dripping with disdain. "Lecher," she accused sharply.
He shrugged, his expression still easygoing. "Look, honestly, I defeated our whole class the other day, including some third years. You think a one-on-one fight is a great idea against me?" he asked, genuinely curious about her confidence.
Her grin was almost manic as she retorted with fervor, "Oh, you think I care to defeat you? I have the power of God on my side," she declared, pointing dramatically at him.
Izuku chuckled, his amusement evident. "Didn't you have the power of God on your side last time we fought?"
She paused, the moment turning unexpectedly comedic. "Yes, I did, but, um, you know, I have more God on my side today," she replied, trying to maintain her serious facade.
Izuku couldn't help but laugh, finding her mixture of zeal and naiveté endearing. "You're cute," he said, the comment slipping out as he readied himself for her attack.
That was her cue. Suddenly, the ground erupted as vines lashed out from all directions, driven by her fierce determination to bind him. Izuku, now on high alert, dodged swiftly, weaving through the vines with impressive agility. His movements were fluid, a testament to his training and natural skill, as he navigated the onslaught she orchestrated.
As the vines surged around him, Izuku's agility kept him just out of reach, each leap and dodge a perfect blend of grace and precision. He couldn't help but throw a few playful remarks her way, his tone light and teasing despite the intensity of their duel. "You know, you're quite cute when you're all fired up like this," he said, darting to one side as a vine swiped where he had just been standing.
Ibara's face flushed with irritation, or was it embarrassment?, at his comment. "Do not stray me from my path, demon! My resolve is with God!" she retorted sharply, summoning more vines in an even fiercer attempt to ensnare him.
Izuku chuckled, genuinely amused by her mix of fervor and fluster. "But it's hard not to admire such dedication, and ferocity," he quipped, his eyes sparkling with mischief as he narrowly evaded another lashing vine. "You're really adorable, trying so hard to beat me."
"Stop calling me that!" Ibara snapped, her frustration mounting as her cheeks turned a deeper shade of red. She was unused to this kind of banter, especially in the middle of a fight, and it was throwing her off her game.
As another vine came hurtling towards him, Izuku danced away, then swiftly closed the distance between them, much to Ibara's surprise. He paused, inches from her, a playful grin on his face. "Adorable for having the gall to attack me," he whispered, his breath tickling her ear before he quickly stepped back, avoiding a retaliatory swipe from her.
Ibara was taken aback, her heart racing for reasons she didn't want to admit. "Do not test me, Izuku! My mission is righteous!" she declared, trying to regain her composure, even as another part of her responded to his proximity and the warmth of his words.
Izuku dodged another vine, then looked back at her with a soft smile. "I know, I know. But can't a guy appreciate the strength and beauty of his opponent? I mean, it's not every day I get to have a duel like this."
Ibara frowned, conflicted by his words. She was determined to see him as just another temptation to overcome, but his respect for her strength, even in jest, was difficult to ignore. "Just fight, Izuku!" she insisted, her tone almost pleading as she launched yet another volley of vines towards him.
As Ibara closed her eyes, a silent prayer whispered from her lips, pleading for forgiveness for using such desperate tactics. She manipulated her vines with a strained focus, her hair swirling around her as they erected walls, creating a dense cocoon around them both. The vines acted not just as barriers but as a snare, ready to spring at the slightest provocation.
Izuku, observing her intense concentration, gave a low whistle. "Going all out, huh?" He recognized the setup, clearly a trap, with Ibara leaving herself seemingly vulnerable to lure him in. He smiled, a mix of admiration and caution coloring his expression. Knowing full well it was a trap, he decided to press forward, confident in his ability to navigate whatever she threw at him.
As he dashed towards her, Ibara's face shifted between expressions of disgust, resignation, and determination. "I'm sorry, God," she shouted, her voice echoing with a mix of defiance and guilt. Izuku, puzzled by her apology, focused on closing the distance, prepared to dodge the vines he sensed brewing beneath the surface.
But then, the unexpected happened. As he was mere feet away, his eyes locked on Ibara's unexpectedly vulnerable expression, her face flushed with a deep blush, her eyes wide with a complex mix of emotions. It was then he noticed, the fabric that had been modestly covering her chest was now on the ground. His reaction was instantaneous; his face lit up in an embarrassed smile, a nosebleed starting as his innate response to the shock.
Before he could recover or retreat, vines swiftly wrapped around him, pulling him in. Ibara, her face marked with shame rather than triumph, quickly snatched her dress and hurriedly covered herself. "Pervert!" she accused vehemently, her voice shaking as she used her vines to slam him into the nearby trees. "How dare you stare!"
Stunned more by the turn of events than the physical assault, Izuku managed to blurt out, "Calling me a pervert? You're the one who flashed me!" His tone was incredulous, a mixture of confusion and embarrassment coloring his words.
Ibara's face flushed a deeper shade of red, indignation sparking in her eyes. "It was an accident, induced by the trap! I did it for a righteous cause, it was for God, not for your twisted entertainment!"
Their back-and-forth continued, the air thick with tension and misunderstood intentions. With a flick of her wrist, Ibara sent Izuku swinging through the air, his body crashing against trees with thuds that echoed through the forest. Surprisingly, he seemed more bewildered than hurt, brushing off leaves and bark from his clothes as he steadied himself.
"Looks like I won," she declared with a mix of triumph and relief, watching him closely for any sign of real injury.
Izuku just looked at her, an eyebrow raised. "Okay," he replied calmly, knowing full well he could escape her viney grasp with minimal effort if he chose to. "So, what's my punishment then?" he asked, playing along with her scenario.
Ibara considered this, her expression serious. "You must pray to God as I punish you," she stated, one of the vines wrapping around her hand, taking the form of a whip.
"OK, OK, um," Izuku began, a slight chuckle escaping him despite the situation. "I don't think this kinky stuff is what God intended."
"It's not kinky stuff!" Ibara protested vehemently, her face turning even redder. "It's discipline!"
"Seems like it," Izuku teased lightly, trying to diffuse the tension with humor, though he was keenly aware of how bizarre their interaction had become.
"I'll show you my devotion to God," Ibara stated with resolve, turning to reveal her bare back. The scars crisscrossing her skin were stark against the soft light, each one a testament to her harsh penances. Izuku's playful demeanor vanished instantly, replaced by a look of concern and shock.
"See, this is my devotion to God. This is the fruit of my resolve," she declared, mistaking his horror for disapproval.
However, as she spoke, Izuku's expression darkened, his grin twisting into one of pure malice mixed with evident anger. The shift was so sudden that Ibara found herself recoiling slightly. His voice deepened, commanding and furious, as he asked her a chilling question. "Who did this to you?"
She hesitated, visibly shaken by his intensity. "Um, I—I did. I needed to punish myself for having sinful thoughts," she confessed, looking to the ground, unable to meet his eyes.
"No, you didn't. Nobody would do this to themselves. Tell me the truth," Izuku pressed, his voice firm, leaving no room for evasion.
"I needed this," she insisted weakly, her voice a mere whisper. "This was my punishment for having sinful thoughts."
With a flick of his wrist, Izuku's telekinesis loosened the vines slightly. Creating claws around his hands, he sliced through the remaining binds effortlessly, freeing himself. He bounded through the air, closing the distance between them in a heartbeat. Her vines lashed out in a panic, but he countered each with a precise and controlled use of the Water Stream Rock Smashing Fist technique, tearing the vines apart as they fell harmlessly to the ground.
"I am not angry with you," he said once he stood beside her, his tone softened, "but whoever did this to you... you've got to tell me now."
"I can't," she whispered, "he made me promise not to."
Izuku's hands gently grasped her chin, forcing her to look at him. The anger had left his face, replaced by a profound sorrow and concern. "It's my caretaker," she finally admitted, her voice breaking under the weight of her confession.
"What's his name?" Izuku asked, his tone gentle yet insistent.
She paused, a tremor in her voice as she replied, "Katsuro Yamada."
"And what exactly does he make you do? Has he touched you in any way? Has he done anything else to you?" Izuku's questions poured out, each one laced with urgency and a protective fierceness.
Izuku's questions intensified, each one probing deeper into the dark reality Ibara was entangled in. But Ibara was defensive, insisting it was none of his business. "I'm getting closer to God," she argued, her voice a mix of defiance and desperation.
"You're being brainwashed," Izuku retorted, his expression a mix of frustration and concern.
"You're trying to brainwash me," she shot back, her belief in Katsuro Yamada's intentions unwavering. "He's using religion to live out his twisted fanatic dreams," Izuku countered, trying to break through her denial.
"No, he's not! He cares about me. He's the only one who has been looking out for me," she exclaimed, her voice cracking under the weight of her emotions. "You don't understand what it's like to be an orphan, to be alone and abandoned by your family. He's the only one who took me in. He helped me become a hero so I could spread the word of God and save others."
"Does your God want you to torture yourself?" Izuku pressed, his tone softening as he sought to reach the core of her turmoil.
"I know He wouldn't," she murmured, more to herself than to him, "but I do it for Him because I'm a good soldier, I'm a good—"
"Stop!" Izuku cut her off sharply, his patience waning as he saw the physical and emotional toll her 'devotion' was taking on her. "Look at yourself. This pain, is this what you want?"
She stepped back, her eyes wide and glistening with unshed tears. "I don't know... I just know I must be worthy of God. I must be pure," she whimpered, the vines around them tightening reflexively as her emotions surged.
Izuku pushed forward, ignoring the pain as the vines dug into his flesh. He reached for her, pulling her into a tight embrace. "Stop it, please," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. "You don't have to make excuses. You're in pain; I can see it. I'm sorry I didn't see it before, but I'll fix it right now. You've got to tell me, is there anybody else that he is using?"
Overwhelmed by his compassion and the raw intimacy of the moment, Ibara broke down completely, her defenses crumbling as she buried her face in his chest. "There are others... we live in an orphanage," she confessed between sobs, her body shaking with each revelation.
"I'll take you there," Izuku promised, his voice resolute. He held her as she let go of years of pent-up anguish, her tears flowing freely.
"We'll stop him, together. You're not alone anymore, Ibara. And you never will be again," Izuku assured her, his own eyes moist as he felt the weight of her trust and her pain.
As Izuku held Ibara gently, he reached for his phone to make a call for help. Before he could dial, however, Mei preempted him with her own call, informing him that she had already captured images of Ibara's scars with the mechanical spider cameras she'd discreetly deployed around them.
"How do you want to handle this?" Mei asked through the phone, her voice filled with a mixture of concern and readiness.
"Let's do this by the book. There are children involved," Izuku replied after a moment of thought, his gaze hardening with resolve. "Involve the proper authorities. I'll bring her down to the station so she can give a statement. After that, I need to call my mother and ask for a favor," he added, hinting at the gravity of the situation and the need for legal and emotional support for Ibara and possibly other children.
He hung up and returned his attention to Ibara, who had fallen into a light, exhausted sleep in his arms. He adjusted her dress to ensure she was covered properly and draped his jacket over her for additional warmth and modesty. Just then, his phone buzzed with a text from mei with directions where he should head. He texted back a quick "Thank you," then carefully lifted Ibara, carrying her in a princess hold as he navigated the rooftops to the police station.
Upon landing in front of the station, Detective Naomasa Tsukauchi was waiting for them, clad in his characteristic trench coat. Izuku gently woke Ibara as they approached the detective. "All you need to do is tell the truth, and everything will be alright," he reassured her softly.
Confused at first upon waking, Ibara took a moment to orient herself. Realizing how Izuku was holding her, she blushed deeply but stood up on her own, nodding in agreement. "Yes, I will," she affirmed, her voice steady despite the flush on her cheeks.
She then turned to face Detective Tsukauchi, who greeted her with a warm, if somewhat grave, smile. "Hello, Ibara. I'm Detective Tsukauchi. We're here to help you, and we take this very seriously. Please, when you're ready, let's go inside and you can tell us everything."
Ibara nodded solemnly and followed Detective Tsukauchi inside the station while Izuku was asked to wait in the lobby area. Izuku watched as Ibara walked inside with Detective Tsukaichi, his expression a mixture of concern and determination. He settled into a chair to wait, pulling out his phone with a deep sigh. He hesitated for a moment before dialing the number he knew all too well—his mother, Inko.
As soon as she answered, her voice filled with the typical warmth and a tinge of surprise, "Oh, what's wrong? You usually don't call."
Izuku took a deep breath, his voice heavy, "Hey, Mom. I know we're not at the best of terms, but we're definitely getting there, and I know we're just repairing our relationship, but I need you to do me a favor. If it is expensive, I'll pay for anything she needs."
Inko took a moment to process, "I see. Is this about Eri? She's getting too much of a head full?"
He quickly corrected, "No, no, not Eri. This is about a classmate of mine. She's been abused by her caretaker and she doesn't have a place to stay. The biopartite of the system isn't enough. But if you could come down to the police station and be willing to shelter her until she's old enough to be considered an adult or we find a proper home for her..."
There was a pause on the line. Inko hesitated, the weight of the request clearly affecting her. "Izuku, I know you want to help your friend, but you're asking a lot. We're talking about adopting someone. I don't think this is a good idea. And besides, you just pulled this out of nowhere."
Izuku clutched the phone tighter, frustration and urgency creeping into his voice. He knew his request was immense, and perhaps even unreasonable. He considered for a moment if he should have handled things differently, perhaps more aggressively with the caretaker or sought out a different solution. But then he thought of the other children, young kids probably just like Eri.
"Look, I understand. I'm sor—" Inko started, but before she could finish, Izuku, overwhelmed by frustration and the need to act quickly, hung up on her. He gripped his phone tightly, his mind racing for alternatives.
He scrolled through his contacts and dialed another number. The phone rang only once before Jiro picked up.
"Hey, Jiro, I need your help," Izuku started without preamble, his tone urgent.
"Izuku, call me Kyoka. We're good friends, so maybe we should be on a first-name basis," she insisted.
"Alright, Kyoka," Izuku agreed quickly, the urgency in his voice palpable. "I need your help. One of our classmates has been abused by her caretaker. I don't want to say who it is over the phone, but she needs a safe place to stay. Could you talk to your parents? See if she can stay with you guys? I'll cover any expenses."
There was a pause on the line as Kyoka processed the information. Her response came back heated and full of rock 'n' roll anger. "Some asshole was abusing one of our classmates? What the hell. Alright, you're at the station, right? I'll bring my parents."
Fifty minutes later, Kyoka arrived at the police station with her parents, Kyotoku and Mika, in tow. Izuku greeted them, his expression a mixture of relief and anxiety. Kyoka, leading her parents forward, demanded to know the full story.
Izuku explained everything, the scars on Ibara's back, how her religious caretaker forced her to harm herself as a form of twisted devotion. The details sparked outrage in all three of them. Kyotoku, her father, clenched his fists and suggested they go and "beat the living crap out of him."
Izuku managed a small smile at the sentiment. "I wish we could, but there are other kids involved. It's best to let the proper authorities handle it," he said, his tone serious. Standing up, he bowed deeply to them, his gratitude evident. "Thank you for coming. I know I'm asking a lot, especially since you've just met her. Could you possibly shelter her?"
Then, in a moment of desperation, Izuku got to his knees, prostrating himself on the ground. He rambled, "She's a nice girl, has her whole career as a hero ahead of her. She's kind and gentle, even though she has some twisted ideas due to that man. I know there's good in her," his voice shook as he listed every good quality he could think of, his hands trembling with the intensity of his plea.
Kyotoku crouched down, tapping Izuku on the back of his head lightly. Looking at him with a mix of amusement and pity, he said, "Kid, we already decided to take her in. Get up, this is quite embarrassing," he chuckled, poking his own cheek playfully.
Izuku looked up, relief washing over him. He stood quickly, wiping the tears that had started to form from the intensity of the moment. "Thank you so much," he said, his voice choked with emotion.
Kyotoku gave him a hearty hug. "No need to thank us, kid. It's the right thing to do. Helping her out is the least we can do. She's part of the community now, part of the family."
Mika nodded, adding, "She'll be safe with us. Let's get everything arranged with the authorities and bring her home."
Together, they coordinated with Detective Tsukauchi to ensure all legal and protective measures were in place for Ibara and the other children from the orphanage, setting in motion a plan to provide a safer, more nurturing environment for them all.
As Ibara sat in the waiting room, a whirlwind of thoughts churned inside her. She was uncertain, questioning whether she was making the right decision, when the door opened and Detective Tsukauchi stepped in. "You'll be going with them," he said gently, nodding toward the door where the Jiro family waited.
Ibara's eyes widened in surprise as Kyoka Jiro and her parents entered. The sight of her classmate, the rock and roll enthusiast, only added to her confusion. "Why are you here?" she murmured, her voice barely audible.
"We're here because Izuku contacted us, looking for a safe place for you," Kyoka explained. "The authorities will bring your stuff over after they deal with arresting your old caretaker. For now, you're going to live with us."
Ibara was stunned, a mix of relief and apprehension filling her. She wasn't sure how to react, whether it was okay to smile or to let out the tears that were threatening to spill. As they prepared to leave, she glanced at Izuku, who was waiting outside.
He gave her a reassuring smile as she approached. "Hey, is everything okay?" Izuku asked, noticing her hesitation.
Overwhelmed by gratitude and the sudden change in her life, Ibara threw her arms around him in a tight hug, surprising them both. "Thank you," she whispered, her voice muffled against his shoulder.
"It was nothing," Izuku replied, blushing slightly but smiling. "I'm just glad you're safe now. We'll keep in touch, and I'll help you get some new clothes tomorrow."
"Thank you, again," she said, pulling away from the hug. With a tentative smile, she followed the Jiros out of the station. As they walked, the Jiros began to engage her in light conversation, trying to make her feel at ease.
"Do you play any instruments?" Kyotoku asked with a friendly grin.
"No, well, I used to sing," Ibara responded shyly.
The family lit up at her admission. "Ooh, we've got another singer in the family! We're definitely going to test you out when we get home," Mika exclaimed with enthusiasm.
"Kyoka, show her to the guest room and make sure she feels alright," Kyotoku instructed his daughter.
"I will, I will! Heck, I'll even show her how to shred on a guitar," Kyoka enthused as they walked towards her home. Kyoka's enthusiasm brought a small smile to Ibara's face as they walked towards the Jiro home, with Izuku waving them goodbye.
The next day after class
As Ibara opened the door, she was surprised to see Izuku standing there with a determined smile. "Hey, remember the bet yesterday? I won it, so let's go out today," he announced cheerfully.
She hesitated, feeling a wave of protest rise within her. "Izuku, you've already done so much, you don't have to—"
He cut her off with a gentle chuckle, taking her hand confidently. "I'll tell you when I've done enough," he said, leading her out with a reassuring grip. She acquiesced, her curiosity piqued about what the day might hold.
As they walked towards the clothing store, Izuku initiated a casual conversation to ease any lingering tension. "So, how have things been going? Getting used to life with the Jiros?"
Ibara gave a small laugh, "It's fine, I'm just getting used to hearing the Devil's music—" She paused, correcting herself quickly, "I mean rock and roll. Sorry, it's just, you know..."
Izuku placed a comforting hand on her shoulder, his expression understanding. "You don't need to apologize. You were under that guy's influence for so long. It's going to take some time to get used to your new life."
She smiled warmly at his empathy. "Yes, thank you," she replied as they continued their stroll.
They soon arrived at the clothing store. The shop was brightly lit, with racks of various garments that promised a fresh start in more ways than one. Izuku guided her through the aisles, pointing out pieces that might suit her new rock and roll influenced environment.
"So, any favorite colors or styles you want to explore?" Izuku asked, pulling a few items from the rack.
Ibara considered, her eyes scanning the store. "I don't know... something comfortable, maybe? I've never really had the chance to choose for myself before."
"That's exactly why we're here," Izuku replied, selecting a few more pieces. "Let's find something that feels like you, not what someone else dictated."
Ibara nodded thoughtfully as Izuku's words resonated with her. "Let's find something that feels like me," she echoed, her voice tinged with a hint of excitement and uncertainty. She began to sift through the racks of clothing, touching the fabrics, considering each item not just for its style but for what it might represent in her new life.
As she tried on various outfits, Ibara experimented with styles far removed from her usual reserved attire. She pulled a series of dresses off the rack, many of them in shades of green that reminded her of quieter times, but others bolder, more daring. One dress in particular was a deeper cut, revealing more of her legs, which made Izuku blush whenever he glanced her way.
Teasing him, she caught his embarrassed gaze. "Caught you looking, Mr. Pervert," she joked, a playful smirk crossing her face.
Izuku's face turned a deeper shade of red. "I—I was just making sure they fit properly," he stammered, quickly looking away.
Ibara laughed softly, enjoying the light-hearted banter. She then tried on a rock and roll-inspired outfit, complete with a leather jacket, leather pants, and high heels, finished with dark green lipstick. The look was a stark departure from anything she had worn before. She pulled her hair back into a long ponytail and examined her reflection in the mirror.
"Wow, this is weird," she muttered to herself, tilting her head as she studied her new appearance. The thoughts of her old caretaker flashed through her mind, disapproving and stern, but she quickly shook them away. "This is what normal people who aren't restricted wear," she reassured herself, trying to embrace the freedom this new life afforded.
When she caught Izuku's reflection in the mirror, his gaze seemed fixed on something. Following his eyes, she realized he was staring at her leather-clad figure, or more specifically, at her rear. She quickly covered herself with her hands, turning to face him with a raised eyebrow. "Spying on private property, are we?"
Izuku's face turned an even deeper red. "No, no, no! I was just... ensuring everything was, you know, fitting well," he fumbled for words, clearly embarrassed.
Ibara chuckled and retreated to the changing room, her cheeks warming with a blush. "Well, I guess I can keep this," she murmured to herself, amused and somewhat flattered by his attention.
After changing back into her regular clothes, they exited the store with bags in tow. Despite her protests, Izuku insisted on paying for everything. "You're starting a new chapter, Ibara. Consider this a welcome gift to your new life," he said, handing over the bags with a gentle smile.
"Thank you, Izuku," she said, feeling a mix of gratitude and independence. As they walked away from the store, Ibara felt a little lighter, a little freer, and maybe even a little excited about what lay ahead.
As they strolled through the bustling streets, Ibara led Izuku to a quaint dessert shop brimming with an array of sweets. Her eyes lit up with excitement as she pointed at the glass display filled with colorful ice cream. "I've always wanted to try one of these," she exclaimed, her voice filled with wonder.
"You've never had ice cream?" Izuku asked, surprised by her revelation.
She shook her head, her gaze fixed on the frozen treats. "No, I haven't. And those," she gestured towards a display of cakes, "are those cakes? They look so different from what I've seen in books."
"We're definitely getting you some of these," Izuku declared with a warm smile. They sampled various flavors of ice cream, and Ibara's reaction to her first taste of a cold, sweet scoop was priceless—a mix of delight and shock from the brain freeze that followed.
Izuku couldn't help but capture the moment with his phone, snapping photos of her trying different cakes and battling the inevitable brain freeze. "I'll send these to your phone," he said, chuckling at her expressions.
She looked at him, a bit sheepishly. "I don't have a phone. I used to have an old tablet, but that was mostly for looking up stuff... trying to find dirt on you," she admitted, apologizing immediately after.
"No sweat," Izuku replied, his tone light and forgiving. "Let's buy you a phone."
They visited a nearby phone store where Izuku added her to his plan, helping her choose a new smartphone. As she held the device in her hands, her smile widened, this small piece of technology symbolized a new connection to the world around her, a world that was becoming more welcoming by the minute.
Once the phone was set up, Izuku sent her the photos from their dessert adventure. Ibara scrolled through the images, each one sparking a little more joy than the last.
"This means a lot, Izuku. Thank you for today, it's been... more fun than I've had in a long time," she said, her voice earnest.
"I'm just glad to see you smiling like this," Izuku responded, his own smile matching hers. "You deserve to enjoy things, to discover what you like and don't like without any fear."
Jiro household
As Izuku walked Ibara back to the Jiro household, the sky had dimmed into hues of deep purple and amber, the cool evening air brushing against them. Once they reached the doorstep, he handed her the bags with a warm smile.
"I wanted to make sure everything is good," he said, placing an envelope into her hands. "Here's some extra cash, just in case. You don't have to use it, but if you ever need anything, I don't want you to worry."
Ibara stared at the envelope, her fingers tightening around it as she glanced back at him. The warmth in his voice, the way he looked after her, the simple, genuine kindness, it made her heart ache in a way she didn't quite understand. She felt the heat rise to her cheeks as she swallowed her emotions.
Izuku turned to leave, casually waving. "I've got some things to take care of, but—"
Before he could finish, vines shot out from her hair, wrapping around his torso. His body jerked mid-step as he was yanked back toward her. His eyes widened in confusion.
"Hey, uh—what's going on?" he stammered, caught completely off guard.
Ibara's heart was racing, and she didn't know what came over her. Before he could utter another word, she lifted him closer. Their faces were inches apart, her breath shaky, her resolve crumbling.
"Hey, sor—"
Before he could finish apologizing, her lips crashed against his.
His body tensed, but he instinctively leaned in, his hands gripping her waist. Her tongue slipped into his mouth, and he responded in kind, their tongues twisting and dancing in a slow, intoxicating rhythm. The warmth of the moment overwhelmed them both, the world fading away in the embrace of the unexpected kiss.
She didn't know what she was doing. She had never done anything like this before, but for once, she let herself go.
After what felt like forever, but was only a few seconds, Ibara abruptly pulled back, her vines retracting like a startled snake. Izuku stumbled slightly, his face blank with shock, his lips still tingling.
"Uh—" was all he managed before clearing his throat, awkwardly rubbing the back of his head. "I'll, uh…..see you later."
She stood frozen, her face crimson, her breath uneven. Without another word, she turned and darted inside, closing the door behind her with a loud thump. She pressed her back against it, her hands covering her burning face.
What did I just do?
She slid down onto the floor, staring at her trembling hands as she processed the whirlwind of emotions that had overtaken her.
In a Dark Room
The only source of illumination came from the glow of a computer monitor, its eerie blue light casting shadows across the dimly lit space.
Three figures sat at a desk, their faces obscured by darkness, their postures relaxed but attentive. The screen displayed three files, each corresponding to a different girl.
With a soft click, the first file opened, revealing images of Ibara and Izuku throughout the day, the shopping trip, the ice cream parlor, the casual conversations, and finally, the kiss.
"Huh. Didn't see that one coming," a voice mused, the distortion of the voice changer making it impossible to tell who was speaking.
A second file opened. This one contained snapshots of Kyoka Jiro, her fingers masterfully strumming her guitar, her playful teasing with Izuku, the rock concert, and the way he played the drums.
"Her rhythm's tight," another voice remarked. "I like her energy. She's got a good vibe."
The third file was Kinoko's. The screen displayed the mushroom girl cooking at the warehouse, her expressions filled with warmth and quiet joy. Then came images of her with Izuku at the botanical garden, her eyes gleaming as she shared facts about fungi. Lastly, a snapshot of him standing protectively in front of her when the bullies confronted her.
"This one's the most promising," a voice stated, matter-of-fact. "She's shy, but she has guts. She just needs confidence."
"Oh, so that's what you care about? Fighting ability?" another voice scoffed. "Competence in battle is important, but personality matters too. Who's the best fit for him? Who balances him out?"
The debate was about to escalate when a new voice suddenly chimed in from behind them.
"It's really dark in here."
A small hand reached toward the switch, flipping on the overhead lights.
The once-shadowy room was instantly bathed in brightness, revealing the three figures at the desk: Rumi Usagiyama, Himiko Toga, and Mei Hatsume.
All three turned, blinking at the sudden interruption.
Standing at the doorway, looking unimpressed, was Eri.
She tilted her head, her crimson eyes scanning the trio. "Are you guys spying on Papa again?" she asked bluntly.
Rumi, casually lounging in her chair, stretched her arms. "Spying is such a strong word, kid. We're just… doing research."
Himiko giggled, twirling a knife between her fingers. "Yeah! Gotta keep tabs on the competition, after all."
Mei, completely unfazed, continued typing at her keyboard. "Strategic planning. Can't let our dear Izuku get snatched up without proper consideration."
Eri crossed her arms, deadpanning. "This is dumb."
The three women turned to each other, then back at her.
Mei sighed. "Alright, squirt. You caught us. What do you suggest we do instead?"
Eri pouted, clearly exasperated. "Instead of watching videos of Papa kissing girls, why don't you guys just—" she dramatically flailed her arms, "—talk to him like normal people?"
Himiko gasped, placing a hand over her chest. "Betrayed! Our own daughter doesn't believe in the art of espionage!"
Rumi rolled her eyes. "She has a point."
Mei smirked, turning back to the screen. "Oh, don't worry, Eri. We'll definitely talk to him. We just need a little more… data first."
Eri sighed, rubbing her temples. "Adults are weird."
She turned around, waving a dismissive hand as she walked away. "Whatever. Just don't keep me up. Some of us actually sleep at night."
The trio watched her go before glancing back at the monitor.
Mei cracked her knuckles. "Alright, ladies. Back to business. Let's analyze."
Himiko grinned, licking her lips. "And then? We make our move."
Rumi smirked. "He's not ready for what's coming."
The three of them leaned in, eyes glued to the screen, ready to plot their next steps.
Author's Note:
Hey everyone, thank you so much for all your support! I really appreciate each and every one of you taking the time to follow along and engage with the story.
This chapter was quite a ride, wasn't it? Now, I'd like to hear from you! I'm considering which character should have a more prominent role moving forward, and your input could really help shape the direction of the narrative. We have:
Kinoko Komori (Mushroom Girl): Known for her gentle nature and her struggle with bullies.
Kyoka Jiro (Punk Rock Girl): A spirited and talented musician who's just starting to open up more.
Ibara Shiozaki (Prayer Girl): Recently breaking free from her repressive upbringing and redefining her faith in a more personal and less intrusive way.
Please leave a review and let me know which character you like the most and why. Feel free to make a case for more than one if you're torn! I might tweak things based on your feedback, but as of now, I don't plan to change the main cast drastically. Just know that Ibara will be portrayed as a more normalized religious figure moving forward, as I understand some concerns have been raised about that character archetype.
Also, a bit of personal news, I've been feeling under the weather and unfortunately, it's hit during my vacation, which is a total bummer. I'm going to take a week off to recover and during this time, I'll leave the voting open for you all. This will give me some time to recover and also gather your thoughts for the next chapter.
Expect the next update next week where we'll wrap up the voting and then move on to the exciting USJ incident chapter. Thanks again for your understanding and support! Looking forward to seeing your thoughts and getting back into the swing of things soon.