Chapter 30: Back to school race
-U.A.-
It was the first day back at school after the week of internships, and the Powderpuff Girls arrived slightly earlier than the rest of their classmates. They were called in to have a meeting with Nezu about the recent Stain incident, and reveal any more things that may be of use.
In the office, seated on the plush couch in Nezu's office, the girls waited, each with a cup of freshly poured tea before them; the warm, inviting aroma of the tea filled the room, a small comfort amidst the gravity of their meeting.
Nezu entered the room with his usual calm demeanor. His round face bore a gentle smile as he finally sat down to address the group. "Good morning girls, pardon my lateness," he took a sip before he spoke again, "Please, do start from the beginning. I want to understand everything that happened from your perspective," he took another short sip, before placing it down to listen.
Blossom began recounting her battle with Stain, who was possessed by HIM, and the trouble he had caused. She noted that Stain seemed to recognize HIM, but from the way he fought for control over his own body, it was clear that their relationship was far from amicable.
Nezu paid close attention to everything his student had to say, his usual calm and calculated face on. If he was feeling anxious or worried, his poker face did not give any interpretation of it.
As Blossom concluded her recount, Nezu had already finished his third cup of tea. He took a short break, and placed his cup down with a thoughtful expression. "Very interesting, girls. This situation is quite distressing, to say the least. The level of danger you've described regarding this entity is quite unnerving. May I ask, what do you believe his next plan or his end goal might be?"
"Honestly sir, we don't know, HIM has always been one for tricks and causing chaos wherever he goes," Blossom explained.
"Really?" Nezu said, curious at this.
"Yeah, the sorry excuse of a clown, likes to mess with us on a monthly basis," Buttercup added, with distaste, "The freak is an absolute pain."
"It's true, he has caused so many problems for us, or the citizens of Townsville," Bubbles also added.
Nezu hummed thoughtfully. "I see, if this being is as dangerous as you make him out to be, then this might be a little direr than I first thought," hearing that, the next matter popped up.
"Does this mean we can be allowed to fight and use our powers now," the way Buttercup phrased it, was more so like a demand than a request. It was not lost on her two sisters and Nezu himself.
"Buttercup," Blossom said, trying to diffuse it.
"Sadly, no, Miss Buttercup," Nezu plainly said.
"Why not?" Buttercup grumbled.
"Yes, Mr. Nezu. Why can't we handle the situation, seeing as you said that the situation seemed dire to you?" Bubbles also interjected
"Bubbles…"
Nezu looked at them with a plain expression, "Whether I believe the matter is dire or not, is not up to me to allow you to fight without a hero license. I am sorry girls, but you will still have to take the same road as everybody else. Those are the laws placed on our society to make it balanced," Nezu said with utmost distaste, knowing fully well the so-called 'laws' issued.
"Well that's stupid," Buttercup muttered out, crossed arms. Blossom and Bubbles were just silently lowering their heads.
"I appreciate you girls sharing this with me. Based on the information you've provided, I will keep a close watch on the situation. At the moment, it's the best course of action. Nothing has come up and no one has reported any strangeoccurrences at the very moment to suggest it to be him. If I were to involve the Hero Commission, they might either dismiss it as utter nonsense or initiate an investigation that could inadvertently lead back to you three," taking a more sympathetic tone, "Therefore, I will conduct my own investigation and determine the next course of action," Nezu's tone was serious yet reassuring.
The girls looked like they wanted to argue, but understood the gravity of it all, even it was seemingly ridiculous, but they just nodded and proceeded to walk off, until Nezu spoke up. "And Buttercup," that caught the raven-haired girl's attention. "Recovery Girl would like a word with you, sometime after school, taking in to account of yesterday's little expose. Though I must say, that was very commendable on your part, markings of a great hero, to say the least," he said with a small smile behind his tea cup.
Buttercup's frustration seemed to ease a bit, if barely at those words, "Yeah, sure…thanks," and with that, they left.
As they closed the door behind them, the room was once again quiet and that left Nezu to contemplate the girls' words and their worries about the whole thing. He honestly couldn't help but feel a little bit perplexed at the challenge before him. He knew from day 1 of meeting these girls, that their story was highly plausible, but after the explanations they gave and the news about the Hero Killer's psychoticbreakdown after his attack, they whole thing seemed much more unnerving to seem real, at the least.
Pouring himself another cup, he began to think, "What would be my first move then?" he muttered to himself.
(-)
The girls, after shortly leaving the principal's office, realized they had some time before school had to officially start and they took this time to hang around a corner and review on the little conversation they had. "I still can't believe he won't allow us to fight crime," Bubbles said, pouting at the situation.
"It's just bull, it what it is," Buttercup said bitterly.
"Girls, he is just the principal and not connected to the hero commission directly," she reasoned, "We can't really expect Principal Nezu to pull some strings for us, just because of HIM, can we?" Blossom asked pointedly.
Buttercup wasn't buying that. "It is entirely because of HIM, that we have to get some leeway," she replied angrily, "Why can't we do our own crime fighting, track him down and-"
"And what, Buttercup? Need I remind you that we don't know where he is and if we went on a search to track down HIM, we would have the entire countries heroes and laws, breathing down our neck," Blossom argued back.
"We could take them," Buttercup declared, turning her head away.
"Whether we can, is not really the question. It's if we go against the laws here, will we end up on the other side of it? I don't think having the heroes and/or government as our enemies is worth it," Bubbles added. She didn't like waiting around and letting HIM seek them out also, but patience was needed.
Blossom nodded in agreement, "Bubbles is right," she turned her gaze towards Buttercup, "I know that this is frustrating, but we can't break the laws here, or else we will be labelled as criminals and have people after us," Blossom added.
"It sucks, but she's right, Buttercup. We don't even know where HIM is and what his planning. All we know is that he might be off planning his next act," Bubbles reasoned and that made Buttercup quell her frustration, if only by half.
"Fine…" she conceded, "But I still don't like it," she firmly stated.
"We know, Buttercup," Bubbles said, placing a comforting arm on her sister's shoulder, offering a small smile.
"But just like saving the day, we won't always find joy in doing these things. Now come on, girls. If we rush now, we can be the first ones in class," Blossom said, enthusiastically walking away.
That garnered the two other sisters to look at each other, before rolling their eyes, "Nerd," they both said, as they left to catch up to their sister. Unbeknownst to them, a certain figure was just around the corner, walking away.
When the girls arrived, it didn't take long before many of their classmates started to trickle in. By then many were talking about their time at their respective internships, recounting their favorite moments and best experiences…while others had other things to say.
"Ha ha ha ha!" Sero and Buttercup howled with laughter as they took in Bakugou's new hairstyle. Buttercup nearly fell over from the sheer amusement.
"Really?! Really, Bakugou?!" Sero pointed at his head, still laughing uncontrollably.
"Stop laughing!" Bakugou snarled at the two. "It's stuck like this, even after a good washing!" He raised his hand, crackles flaring above his palm. "Keep it up, and I'll blow the two of you to bits!" His rage was palpable, his face flushed red as he seethed over the ridiculous hairstyle Best Jeanist had inflicted upon him.
"You can try, Boom Boom baby. But that haircut will have me in stitches before you can even think of laying a hand on me," Buttercup remarked through her hearty laughter.
"Look at that hair! It's a perfect 2:8 ratio part!" Sero banged on the desk beside him, his laughter shaking the room.
"You two are dead!" Bakugou lunged at the two, but Buttercup evaded easily, causing the ash-blonde's hair seemed to explode, in rage, as it returned to its normal style.
"It changed back! Bwahahahahaha!" Sero nearly bust a gut, even as Bakugou roughly held on to him. Buttercup just walked away, not wanting to clobber the guy, so early in the morning (it was tempting though).
"COME BACK HERE!" Bakugou growled, but was effectively ignored.
On the other side of the room, Mina, Jiro, and Tsuyu were engaged in a more subdued conversation, unaffected by the ruckus.
"Wow! You got to face real villains?" Mina gushed, eyes wide with excitement as Jiro recounted her experience at Death Arms' agency. "I'm so jealous! All my patrols have been completely uneventful."
"It was mostly just evacuation procedures and logistical support. No real fighting," Jiro shrugged, idly winding one of her jacks around her index finger.
"That's still amazing!" Mina bounced a little in place.
"It was just training and patrol for me," Tsuyu added thoughtfully, resting her index finger on her chin. "Though we did catch some foreign smugglers once. I only contributed a little, though."
"That's incredible!" Mina and Jiro exchanged wide-eyed looks of awe.
At the back of the room, Bubbles was catching up with Kouda.
"Wow, Kouda! Those bracelets are so cute!" Bubbles exclaimed, admiring the multi-colored, fancy accessories Kouda was holding out.
"I-It's nothing special," Kouda said, a blush creeping onto his cheeks. "After the internship, my mum had come up with the idea to get these bracelets. Their laced with specific animal DNA I need, just a way to keep in contact with animals in emergencies. It's like a friendship bracelet…made with animal fur and stuff…it must sound a little weird, huh?" he said quite sheepishly, thinking it was.
Bubbles' eyes sparkled with excitement as she shook her head, her bright smile widening. "Wow, Kouda, that's amazing! It's not so weird at all. I actually think it's much easier and way better than holding sample pouches with their fur. It's like having little animal buddies with you all the time! The bracelets might look quirky, but they're super special and clever. I think it's adorable and totally awesome!"
Kouda's cheeks turned a deeper shade of red as he scratched the back of his head, looking a bit flustered but pleased. "A-Actually, I hadn't thought of it that way," he said with a shy smile. "Thanks, Bubbles. I'm glad you think they're cool!" He then brightened, shifting the topic. "Also, tell me about your internship. How was working with Gang Orca?"
Bubbles' eyes sparkled as she giggled. "It was amazing! Gang Orca is really nice, people think he's scary, but I see him as a big old softie. I learned a ton about handling tough situations and teamwork. He's super supportive and gave me great advice. It was an awesome experience!" She beamed, excited to share.
At the back, Momo, Kirishima, and Blossom were animatedly discussing their internship experiences with Fat Gum. They were within earshot of Todoroki, Iida, and Izuku, who were having their own conversation.
"You should have been there," Kirishima said, grinning. "Fat Gum's training was intense, but it really pushed us to our limits. I learned so much!"
Momo nodded in agreement. "Absolutely. Fat Gum's approach was unique, and his support really helped us. We had a chance to handle some real emergencies, and it was eye-opening."
Blossom's eyes sparkled with genuine interest. "That sounds amazing! I interned under Edgeshot, and it was a whole different experience. The hero isn't called the Ninja Hero for nothing, his precision and stealth in both teaching and fighting were incredible."
Kirishima's eyes lit up with playful curiosity. "Oh yeah? So, are you like a ninja now or what? Will you demonstrate some of your moves?"
Blossom rolled her eyes with a smirk. "Maybe. You'll just have to wait and see. And technically, I'd be called a Kunoichi," she added with a mischievous grin.
Kirishima laughed. "I'll be keeping an eye out for any ninja moves!" The conversation shifted as Momo and Kirishima turned their attention back to Blossom. "Speaking of your experiences," Momo began, "We heard about the Hero Killer incident. That must have been terrifying."
Blossom's smile dimmed slightly, but she nodded. "It was, but it worked out in the end. Edgeshot and Endeavor were incredible in that situation. I'm grateful for their help and support."
Kirishima nodded, "Oh man, that must have really sucked. I do doubt that you were not able to handle yourself though, Blossom," he said with a comforting smile at Blossom, making her nerves slowly disappear at the sight. "But I'm really glad Edgeshot and Endeavor were there to help you guys, though," he added.
"Yeah, that's right, they were crucial in saving us," Todoroki mumbled an affirmative, for which Iida and Izuku could hear it.
At the mention of the Hero Killer Stain, Iida's face grew somber. He reflected on the recent events and the chaos that ensued, feeling a heavy responsibility for the pain it may have caused his brother and the burden he had placed on his family. His thoughts were weighed down by guilt over the confrontation and its aftermath.
Sensing the shift in mood, Momo decided to steer the conversation toward a more positive direction. "Oh Iida, I heard the news about your brother's miraculous recovery. It must be such a relief for you and your family to see him doing well. I'm really happy for you."
Iida's expression softened, and he glanced at his injured left hand. "Yes, it's a mix of joy and guilt, watching him recover. I'm deeply grateful to those who helped him," he said thoughtfully. "Reflecting on everything now, with Tensei able to continue being a hero, I realize that seeking revenge was not the path of a true hero."
He sighed, "I'm also thankful for my friends and classmates who were there when it mattered most," he added, giving a brief, appreciative glance at the group around him. Blossom noticed this and inwardly smiled. "I vowed to dedicate my life to ensuring no one else faces what I did. A hero's duty is to protect and uplift others, not to pursue personal vendettas," he declared with his usual earnestness, his voice taking on a dramatic tone. "I will strive to be a hero who defends and saves, not one who let's revenge cloud my judgment," he said, chopping the air with conviction.
"Oh great, he's back to normal," Jirou remarked offhandedly.
"Did he ever really leave?" Kaminari asked.
Blossom, Izuku, and Todoroki listened with a mix of cringe and admiration. They understood the weight of Iida's words and the seriousness of his resolve.
"Your commitment is admirable, Iida," Blossom said sincerely. "It's clear that you've learned from this experience."
Kirishima nodded in agreement. "Yeah, you all have. It's part of what makes us stronger as heroes."
Izuku felt a swell of pride for his fellow classmate. His attention then shifted to the raven-haired girl at the desk behind his. Buttercup was deep in conversation with Tokoyami and Shoji, likely sharing their own internship experiences. Izuku slipped away, wanting to converse with her, approaching her with a warm smile. "Hey, Bu-" he was cut off.
"Deku!"
Midoriya turned at the sound of his name, startled as Uraraka bounded over with a bright smile. "Oh, U-Uraraka! Hi!"
"I heard what happened," Uraraka said, her eyes filled with concern and warmth. "I'm so glad you're feeling better! Here," she added, pulling out an envelope from her bag and handing it to him. "It's a get-well card I made. I couldn't get it to you in time at the hospital, but I hope you still like it!"
Midoriya took the card, looking up at Uraraka's beaming face. "Oh…Th-thanks! I really appreciate it!"
Uraraka's smile widened even more, and she giggled softly. "You're welcome! I'm just glad you're okay!" She quickly said before heading back to her side of the room, leaving Midoriya with a warm lump in his throat. As Uraraka glanced at Buttercup, who was observing the exchange, she plastered on a strained smile that seemed too forced to be genuine.
Buttercup quirked an eyebrow, wondering, 'What's up with her?' but shrugged it off as just a momentary weirdness.
After this brief interruption, Midoriya found himself unable to approach Buttercup as Aizawa suddenly walked in and signaled for everyone to quiet down, as was his usual method. Class began, and Aizawa launched into one of his typical lectures. Fortunately for the students, the lecture lasted only forty minutes before Aizawa announced that they would be preparing for another hero training exercise.
"You can all go and change into your hero outfits now," Aizawa announced before leaving. "All Might will be waiting for you at the Ground Gamma training facility."
"Ah yeah, training with All Might again!" Kirishima yelled, his excitement palpable.
"I wonder what we will be doing today." Tsu thoughtfully asked herself.
"Yay, costume change!" Bubbles exclaimed, practically bouncing with enthusiasm.
-Ground Gamma-
After changing into their hero costumes, the students made their way toward the Ground Gamma training facility.
"I AM HERE!" All Might's voice boomed as he appeared before Class 1-A, standing proudly before the walled-off training field. "And the reason for that is… your Foundational Heroics Training!" He struck his signature pose with his fists on his hips and a wide smile. "It's been a while, boys and girls! How is everyone?"
"I can't get over his Golden Age costume," Izuku said, his eyes sparkling with admiration. Bubbles, too, was taking in the vintage suit with awe.
"Now, listen up!" All Might continued, holding up his right hand with his index finger pointing skyward. "As an immediate follow-up to your internships, today's activity is going to test you on that!" His grin widened. "A rescue-training race!"
"A what?" Class 1-A asked in unison, their curiosity piqued.
"That's right! I will be a helpless civilian at the center of this complex. Your job is to get to me and rescue me! And to make it interesting, you'll be competing against one another!"
"A rescue race, huh?" Bubbles said thoughtfully.
"Sweet! I'm always down for a challenge!" Buttercup cheered, her enthusiasm evident.
Blossom's hand shot into the air. "Shouldn't rescue training be performed at the USJ, sir?"
"That place is fordisasterrescue training, in particular, young Kayama," All Might shook his head. "But recall what I said, it's a race! This is Field Gamma!" he threw his arms wide to introduce the training ground. "It's a dense spread of factories that wind together to form an intricate network of maze-like alleys! For this exercise, you'll all be splitting into four teams of five members and going through it one team at a time!" Seeing that all of them understood, All Might nodded and continued with the explanation of the exercise. "I'll send up a distress signal from somewhere inside, and you will all start at the edge of the field in randomly selected locations. It's a race to see who can reach and rescue me first!"
"I see, this will really test our mobility," Izuku said thoughtfully.
"But try to keep the property damage to a minimum," All Might reminded, looking over at Bakugou and pointing to Buttercup.
"Why are you looking at me?!" Bakugou grumbled.
"Alright, buff guy. Game on," Buttercup muttered to herself, a scowl present.
"Alright, now to randomly select the first group and their entry points to Field Gamma," All Might pulled out a tablet and flipped it around to show the screen to the students. A list of names rolled past the screen like a slot machine for a second before they stopped. "Group one will consist of Sero, Ashido, Iida, Buttercup Kayama, and Midoriya! Please head to the location beside your name and we'll begin shortly!"
"Yes, sir," The five students stepped forward.
"Once you get the signal you may begin!" All Might instructed before leaping from the ground and into the middle of Field Gamma in one move.
While the five students of Group One made their way towards their designated starting positions. The rest of the class was sat up on a raised platform with a large screen and speakers. The screen was divided into five perspectives, each one following one of the students.
"Everyone here has great mobility, but…" Kaminari paused, glancing at the others "Anyone have a sure win?"
"I would say that Sero has a better advantage, judging by the skill use of his quirk," Momo commented.
"I think Mina has a good shot, she is quite athletic," Toru chimed in.
"Though, I believe we are overlooking a clear-cut winner," Todoroki stoically said.
Tsu hummed, "True, I would say that Buttercup, has this in the bag. She can easily fly across."
"Yeah, but I find that strange that she could fly all this time…" Jirou paused, and turned to Blossom and Bubbles, "Can you two also fly?" she asked curiously.
Everyone was now staring at the other two sisters, who were finding this amusing.
"That's for us to know and you to find out, silly," Bubbles playfully said, much to the groans of the others.
"I am going to choose Izuku," Blossom added.
"Not going to root for your sister, Blossom?" Kirishima asked, but someone else replied.
Bakugou tch'd, "Obviously the Flame haired Fodder knows her and her sisters are not all that," not paying any mind to the death glare he was receiving from Blossom.
"Who you calling, 'Fodder,' you…" luckily Bubbles was there to calm her down.
"Y-yeah," Uraraka just sweat-dropped at that and focused forward, "I think I will be rooting for either Deku or Iida," they all turned back to the screen, just when it was going to start.
(-)
As each of the students were positioned at their starting point, they all waited for the timer to go off. Midoriya looked over to where his classmates were, and his focus locked back on to the goal before him. 'Each one of them is very capable of completing this race. I will have to be fast and agile in this challenge,' he then could make out the place where Buttercup was situated and knew the bigger challenge ahead.
Located at her starting point, Buttercup was getting ready for the little challenge ahead, a big grin on her face. "Alright, green bean," standing at the ready, "Let's do this."
"START!"
At the sound of All Might's booming voice, all five students took off in the same direction. Sero launched his tape high, anchoring it to one of the numerous pipes scattered across the field. Retracting the tape, he propelled himself into the air, soaring above the obstacles, feeling all the more confident in his abilities and speed. Meanwhile, Mina executed impressive parkour across the intricate network of pipes, buildings, and ductwork. With a confident grin, she leapt towards a flat wall.
Producing a thick, viscous acid from her hands and through her special shoes, she adhered to the wall and swiftly climbed up its surface. Resuming her parkour across the rooftops, "Can't stop me!" Mina's eyes were fixed on the roof where she suspected All Might was waiting. Her laughter echoed as she skilfully maneuverer through the challenging terrain, revelling in her unstoppable progress.
Iida was doing his best to navigate the turns and corners of the maze-like area, but time was not on his side, even with the nature of his quirk, he could not manage to manoeuvre as precisely as he needed to get through the turns.
Many were impressed by the three students displaying their skills
"Wow, Mina is really doing parkour! She's doing great!" Toru pointed to Mina's screen.
"Our classmates are quite skilled in their own right, I must say," Momo stated.
"I kind of feel bad for Iida, not exactly in his element, is he?" Tsu pointed out.
Uraraka nodded, "Well, the others are taking the high ground approach, though I wonder how Deku, is-" she was interrupted.
"Whoa! Look at those two!" the screen immediately displayed the other two.
Izuku and Buttercup were both bursting across the facility, dashing and flipping over the obstacles, as if they weren't even there. Izuku was propelling himself forward with a combination of raw speed and precise control, One for All coursing through his body, his legs firing off powerful bursts of energy as he does his level best to catch up to his opponent. Buttercup was zipping forward, while giving a small distance for the boy to try and catch up, she alternated between flight and using her momentum to launch herself forward; obviously teasing the guy.
"I am going to win, Buttercup!" Izuku declared with a determined grin. Never losing focus. Buttercup glanced back with her own playful grin, "Try catching up first, Green bean!" and increased her speed to put even more distance. Izuku just took the challenge and tried to steadily increase his power output. Everyone who was watching was quick to comment on the little competitive turn the race took.
"Those two definitely have a competitive streak," Momo observed, her eyes following the intense duel on the screen.
Toru nodded in agreement, her voice filled with excitement. "You can obviously see the chemistry between those two, so cute," she squealed.
Bubbles hearing that, could not help but giggle at the idea, "I think so too, they are quite adorable," she said.
"Ah ha…I wouldn't go so far as to say that…" Uraraka dryly laughed, but turned her attention at the screen, "But it is clear Deku has been working hard at his internship," she said, her normal cheery tone back.
"Who cares about that!" Bakugou growled at the lot, "That little weasel is using my moves to get past obstacles," he muttered to himself, as he glared at the screen.
All Might observed the race with a keen eye, his gaze lingering on his successor. Despite the impressive display, there was a subtle disappointment in his expression. The enthusiasm of the race seemed to overshadow the seriousness of the challenge, and All Might felt a pang of unease seeing his protégé seemingly not pushing himself as he usually did, seemingly more absorbed in the playful competition with Buttercup rather than the race's true demands.
As the competitors drew closer to the finish line, their rivalry was palpable. Buttercup alternated between graceful, soaring flights and rapid ground-based sprints, her laughter echoing as she skillfully evaded Izuku's advances. Izuku, with energy visibly surging through his legs, pushed forward with intense focus; striving to close the gap between himself and Buttercup.
'There it is,' he thought to himself, seeing the meeting point ahead, Izuku grew even more confident and pushed even harder. He soon overtook Buttercup, surprising her with his sudden surge. Just as he was about to declare victory, "Yes, I'm going to w-" he was cut off mid-sentence, slipping off a ledge, he fell.
"Whoa! Izuku just fell?!" Toru exclaimed.
"He was so close to winning!" Momo added, her eyes wide.
"No, Deku!" Uraraka cried out, covering her mouth in shock.
"Ahhh!" Izuku braced himself for impact, closing his eyes in anticipation of the fall, "Huh?" but he didn't feel any impact. Opening his eyes, he was astonished to find himself flying in the air, but more so cradled bridal-style by a smirking Buttercup.
"You really need to watch your step, Green bean," Buttercup teased.
Izuku squealed, as his face turned a deep shade of red, both from embarrassment and the unexpected position. Buttercup gave another amused but playful smile. She then saw the others approaching and quickly flew over to the finish line, maintaining her first-place position, and set Izuku down gently to get second. Sero soon followed, landing next and commenting with a hint of frustration.
"Man, I'm third place," Sero said, shaking his head.
"Dang it!" Mina shouted from her position, clearly disappointed.
A few moments later, Iida arrived, his face downcast as he took in his last-place finish. He sighed deeply, visibly disheartened.
"Yahoo, first place, baby!" Buttercup, still buoyant from her victory, cheered and celebrated. Izuku, now less red but still awkward, tried to hide his flushed face, stood nearby, happy for his friend.
All Might, who was a little bit stunned, cleared his throat, his signature smile lighting up his face. "Congratulations to everyone on a great performance!" he turned his attention to the winner, "And I must say, Buttercup Kayama, you seemed to have managed to save two people during the race, instead the one!" laughing a bit at his own joke.
Izuku chuckled nervously at the comment, while Buttercup hollered with triumph. "You got that right, Muscles!" she shouted, reveling in her win.
All Might flinched slightly but quickly recovered, forcing a grin. "Right… well, let's move on to the next group."
(-)
Blossom sighed, hand over her chest, "Honestly, I was on the edge of my seat there," she smiled, "Lucky that Buttercup acted as she did."
"OMG, like yeah! I was so worried for Izuku," Bubbles worriedly said. Blossom looked over her sister.
"I can see that, and so does Kouda, who might I say, you are squeezing his arm too hard," she plainly pointed out.
Bubbles squeaked looking at her friend's arm and then her friend, seeing she was indeed hurting him, "Eee, sorry Kouda," she comforted the bug guy. "It's okay, Bubbles," just waved her off, trying not to worry her.
"Man, that was one heck of a race!" Kirishima exclaimed.
Tokoyami nodded, "Yes, it was quite a heartstopper, if I may say."
"Did you see the way they were? It's was like so cute," Toru squealed at the screen. Some were not too keen on the idea, but there was no time for a rebuttal.
"The next group will be Bubbles Kayama, Bakugou, Blossom Kayama, Tsuyu Asui, and Kaminari!"
Hearing that, Bubbles stood up, "Come on Blossom, let's go have some fun!" she cheered eagerly, pulling on her older sister's arm.
"Bubbles, it's a training race, not a g-AHH!" she didn't get to finish before being yanked.
"A race against them? How am I supposed to do that?!" Kaminari whined out. The five then left, and in came the previous competitors. Mina, Sero had already caught up with the rest of their squad, leaving Iida, Izuku and Buttercup to come in slowly. Iida was a few feet behind Izuku and Buttercup; the girl was trying to her level best, to calm down a still embarrassed Izuku.
"Come on Green bean, you still can't be moping about the whole saving your butt thing, are ya?" she asked incredulously.
"N-no, not exactly…I am t-thankful for you saving me…i-it's just I feel so stupid for making that mistake, in front of everyone and All Might," Izuku groaned in to his hands.
She patted the boy's back, "Ah, Izuku-"
"Hey, Deku!" in came Uraraka, bouncing over to the duo. For a brief moment, her bubbly smile faltered to a somewhat strained one, upon looking at Buttercup but quickly resolved back the moment she saw Izuku; though it was not lost on the green themed Powerpuff.
"Congratulations on coming in second place," she said.
He scratched the back of his head, "Um ah, t-thanks, Uraraka…could've done better though," he said.
She giggled, "Oh well, next time. Maybe you won't miss the ledge in front of you, right?" she said.
"Y-yeah, right," he said. Uraraka then pulled him and a now caught up Iida, over to view the screen.
Buttercup just rolled her eyes, "Ookay, weird," she then made her way over to view the screen.
(-)
"START!"
With the signal, the next five students took off with varied yet impressive strategies. Bakugou roared, "Out of my way, losers!" as he exploded forward, launching himself from building to building. Each powerful burst from his hands propelled him further, his fierce competitiveness evident in every explosion.
Tsuyu crouched low, her legs tensed and ready. In an instant, she leapt into the air, soaring high enough to land atop a multi-story factory. With another agile bound, she set off in the direction of the signal, her movements quick and efficient.
Blossom and Bubbles began with their unique abilities. Blossom's aura glowed as she took off from the edge of the factory roof. She moved with swift and focused pace, her form slicing through the air as if she was gliding effortlessly over the maze of towering structures below. Meanwhile, Bubbles, her aura also glowing brightly, ran to the edge of a nearby building and made a powerful jump. She landed safely on the next structure and continued with a high-speed skipping motion, her light and buoyant movements rapidly closing the distance.
While those four rushed forward…. Kaminari could only run onto whatever they could. "This sucks!" Kaminari cried out in frustration trying to balance on top of a skinny rail.
Bakugou jumped off another rooftop, blasting himself forward before flipping and kicking off an AC unit and rocketing forward again. He looked to the side and saw Blossom quickly gaining on him, gritting his teeth and increasing the size of his blasts. "No way you're catching up, fodder!" he yelled out and launched up and over a sign.
Blossom glared at hearing that and with added motivation, picked up her speed, and took to flying past the explosive quirk user, leaving him in her fading pink trail.
"Huh?! No way!" he exclaimed, wide-eyed. He rushed to catch up to her but was too late; she had already won and landed on the rooftop. Bakugou followed a few minutes later, landing with a thud. Next came Bubbles, and finally, Tsu.
"We have ourselves a winner!" All Might declared, addressing the first to arrive. "Good job, Kayama! That was excellent racing!"
"Thanks, sir," she replied respectfully, barely out of breath.
The other two girls walked up to her. Tsu approached, saying, "Congrats, Blossom. That was impressive. Looks like you've answered Jirou's earlier question. Kero."
Blossom smiled, but then turned her head toward the source of an animalistic growl. Bakugou stomped over, his face a mask of rage. He glared at Blossom with contempt and bared his teeth. "That was bullshit!" he spat. "I refuse to lose again to another one of you flashy, overconfident girls who think their quirks make them better than everyone else! I demand a rematch!"
Blossom's eyes narrowed as she met his gaze with cool composure. All Might attempted to defuse the tension. "Alright, young Bakugou, it's just a—"
Bakugou cut him off, his voice dripping with hostility. "You think you're so much better just because you won this time?! This doesn't mean anything!"
Blossom maintained her cool, responding, "No one said anything about being better than you. If you're so upset, maybe you should focus on improving instead of blaming others." She raised an eyebrow, adding with a hint of sarcasm, "But I guess I'm not so bad for being a so-called 'fodder,' after all, huh?"
Bakugou snarled, his fists clenching at his sides. He turned on his heel and stormed away, leaving the rooftop in a fit of fury.
All Might cleared his throat. "Right… Alright, everyone, let's move on to the next group. Congratulations again, and well done to all the competitors!"
Meanwhile, the next five competitors prepared to head up. Buttercup, lounging casually next to the friendly giant, remarked with annoyance, "Sheesh, that guy has some serious issues."
Kouda nodded in agreement, his expression reflecting his own disapproval.
-Girls Locker Room-
After the final races wrapped up, the students were back in the locker rooms, changing out of their costumes. Some were still buzzing with excitement from testing their speed, while others were feeling down, especially those whose quirks didn't give them an advantage.
"I have to say, being invisible doesn't always have its perks…" Toru grumbled as she slipped into her school uniform.
Jirou sighed in agreement. "Yeah, at least this test shows us what we need to work on."
Momo nodded. "Exactly. When I interned with Fat Gum, he always reminded Kirishima and me to focus on our physical training, not just our quirks."
Tsu turned to the others. "You three were really impressive today. I even had trouble keeping up with Bubbles, jumping from one building to the next," she said with a smile.
"Oh, thanks, Tsu. I just love skipping around," Bubbles replied, now fully dressed.
Jirou chuckled. "I have to say, Blossom really gave Bakugou a run for his money. He definitely wasn't happy about losing."
"Yeah…but I would say that you shouldn't provoke him like that, he didn't seem like in the mood," Mina said with a smile.
Blossom, tying her hair with a red bow, shrugged. "Well, we can't always win. And I don't back down from people who can't control their tempers. He was a real pain."
Tsu turned to Buttercup. "But I have to ask, Buttercup," she said, catching everyone's attention, "you clearly could have won the race, early on, but why did you toy with Izuku like that?"
Buttercup shrugged casually. "I just wanted to have fun and a good race with him. He didn't disappoint and it gave him a chance to push himself a bit more. I was actually sure he would've won if he hadn't been so klutzy at that edge," she chuckled a bit, thinking that.
Toru and Bubbles giggled at that. "What? What's so funny?" Buttercup asked, a bit puzzled.
"Oh, nothing," Toru said with a playful grin. "It was just cute how you carried him in your arms like that."
Buttercup rolled her eyes, but a small smile tugged at her lips, which she quickly suppressed.
Uraraka, who had been quietly packing up, couldn't help but feel a pang of discomfort at the giggles and the implications behind them.
Three hours later
As the sun began setting in the sky, Midoriya sat in the small room facing All Might in his deflated form. The smile he wore when he entered had faded as he listened to his mentor and idol. Summoned for a private meeting, he never expected to hear the revelations that followed.
Toshinori, his expression grim, shared what he had learned from a recent investigation. The DNA from the arms left behind by the defeated Nomu revealed that it was a bio-engineered creature, once human but enhanced beyond recognition. The quirks it possessed were artificially implanted. The implications were chilling. There was only one person who came to mind, the one responsible for the terror gripping Japan.
Midoriya swallowed hard as Toshinori delivered the horrifying truth. "This man… he…"
"Yes…" Toshinori said, his voice heavy with memories of pain and loss, as he remembered that man's cold voice, his laugh as he took away someone precious to him. "…He is the one who killed my master, the previous holder of One For All. He can steal quirks and either use them himself or bestow them upon his subordinates. His name is…All For One."
"All… for One." Midoriya's hands trembled as he absorbed the weight of the revelation. To think that this man, who had matched All Might at his peak and now was manipulating the League of Villains, was not only alive but orchestrating chaos from the shadows was terrifying.
"Wh-what are we going to do now?" Midoriya asked, his voice wavering as Toshinori moved to the window, gazing out at the twilight. "What is the plan?"
Toshinori turned back to him, his eyes filled with a grave seriousness. "There's no telling what his next move will be. He's already sent Shigaraki after me, either to kill me or test my limits. The Nomu attacks, the fear he spreads—this is only the beginning. You must understand this: you may one day have to face him yourself."
Midoriya's resolve hardened, but Toshinori's next words cut through his determination.
"Midoriya, you've been improving, and I've seen your growth. But this is not a game. Your performance in the rescue race showed potential, but also revealed weaknesses. If you truly wish to stand a chance against All For One, you must commit fully. Being a hero isn't just about strength; it's about a relentless drive to go Plus Ultra. This path won't be easy, and your dreams of reaching the top will require far more than just desire. It demands sacrifice, unwavering dedication, and the strength to face what lies ahead without hesitation. If you're not ready to face that truth, if you're not willing to confront your own weaknesses and truly commit, then you have no chance of standing against All For One."
Midoriya's gaze dropped, the weight of Toshinori's words sinking in. He thought of his mother, his friends, and all he had yet to achieve. He clenched his fists, resolute.
"All right then…" Midoriya said, rising to his feet, his expression set with a new determination. "I will do whatever it takes. I will be ready when he shows up. I won't let him hurt anyone else, and I won't let you down. I'm ready to go Plus Ultra."
Toshinori nodded at the boy's determination, seeing he would do whatever he could. However, inside he felt a sharp pain running through his chest.'Young Midoriya, you will become something great. But… can you be ready in time for when that evil arrives? And…'the heroes heart ached, not wanting to tell the truth to him. 'Can you do it without me? By that time… I may not be by your side any longer.'
Chapter 31: Beneath the Surface
It was close to 8 in the morning, and the sun's light filtered through the curtains, casting a gentle glow over the room. The rays tickled Bubbles' eyelids, coaxing her from sleep. She stirred, not much of a morning person, but decided to get up nonetheless.
Sitting upright, a yawn escaped her lips as she rubbed the sleep from her eyes. Once she managed to clear the last remnants of slumber, a small smile crept across her face as she took in her room. It had been a few months since she and her sisters had arrived in this world, and though it hadn't been easy, she was at times, grateful to wake up to a peaceful morning, away from monster attack calls. Her bed, covered with a blue pastel-colored bedspread, housed some stuffed animals she had grown fond of. While they could never replace a very special doll she once had, they still brought her joy.
"Right…" she yawned again, "…let's get on with the day." With that, she slipped off the bed, leaving a slight ruffle in the covers behind. Dressed in her light blue nightgown, adorned with delicate sleeves trailing softly behind her, and with her hair tied back in a nightcap, she made her way over to the closet. Opening it, she peered at her options, contemplating what outfit to choose for the day ahead.
She hummed to herself, "Let's see what we have…"
Downstairs, the kitchen buzzed with activity, or rather, Blossom was busy in the kitchen. Cleaned and dressed in her morning wear, a pink and white t-shirt and a denim knee-length skirt adorned with pink flower embroidery, she wore an apron over her outfit, the fabric slightly wrinkled from her morning efforts. As she prepared breakfast, she glanced over at her sleepy sister.
"Buttercup, could you get off your butt and help set up for breakfast?" she called, urgency lacing her tone.
Buttercup, sprawled face down on the counter, waved a dismissive hand in response. Still in her sleepwear, she wore an oversized black t-shirt and olive-green pajama pants, her hair an even more wild mess, from a restless night. Blossom rolled her eyes at the sight but returned to her cooking.
Using her telekinesis, she effortlessly gathered and placed the ingredients and tools she needed. While she knew how to be organized and cook without her special abilities, a little extra help never hurt. With the assistance of her powers, she didn't mind being a one-woman cooking team on most days. Finishing off the final preparations, she placed three bowls of oatmeal on the table, each with a different flavor to suit each girl's taste: cinnamon, blueberry, and banana, alongside some eggs, toast, and soup.
As she turned around, her younger sister entered the kitchen. "Good morning, Bubbles! Cute outfit! How did you sleep last night?" Blossom greeted her with a smile.
Bubbles beamed back. "Good morning to you too, Blossom! I slept well, and thank you!" She twirled playfully, showcasing her outfit. She wore a vibrant blue and yellow ensemble that reflected her bubbly personality: a light blue long-sleeve shirt, featuring cheerful prints of flowers. Her flouncy yellow skirt, with the flower embroidery, swayed with her movements, complemented by stylish white tights that added a pop of color and warmth. Bright blue sneakers adorned with fun, colorful accents completed her look. She also carried a small backpack, in the case to carry certain items that she may buy along the way.
"Morning Buttercup," she said, as she made her way to the table, sitting right next to her raven-haired sister. "Morning…" Buttercup returned, though hazily. "So, Bubs, where are you off to today?" Buttercup asked curiously. "Seeing as you have that whole… fun day out outfit or whatever," she gestured before taking another bite of her oatmeal.
Bubbles took a bite of her breakfast, before rplying. "Oh, I'm spending the day with Koda. He wanted help with a new design for his hero costume and I was of course, happy to help," she cheerfully said.
"Geez, Bubbles, with the way things are going, you should become a stylist or designer, instead of a hero," Buttercup quipped.
"Not one of your worst ideas, Buttercup," cheekily she said, sticking out her tongue, for which Buttercup just rolled her eyes.
Blossom took her seat. "Well, that's nice of you to help him. But I hope it won't take too long. Tomorrow is school and all."
"Nah, it won't take too long," she reassured. The girls went on to eat, talking about what their own days looked like. After a while, Bubbles quickly left and bid her sisters farewell.
-Musutafu City-
When Bubbles arrived at their meet-up spot, it was around nine and the sun hung high in the sky, casting a warm glow over the streets. The bustling streets were alive with energy, and she felt a thrill of excitement as she took in her surroundings. It wasn't long before she spotted Koda waiting for her, wearing a white t-shirt and some comfortable shorts, his shy smile breaking through his typical bashfulness.
"H-hey, Bubbles," he called, waving slightly. "I'm glad you came, thanks you."
"Hi, Koda! It's no problem, we're going to have so much fun," she replied, her voice bright with enthusiasm. She gave him a hug that he returned with an obvious blush on his face. They soon left, on a hero fashion mission. With Bubbles help, the hit the shops, wandered from store to store. They checked out different fabrics, colorful patterns, ordinary clothes and quirky accessories. Koda, though a bit reserved, slowly warmed up to the experience. He shared his ideas about what hero costume designs he wants, and Bubbles listened attentively, her imagination racing alongside his.
"Since you like nature, how something with this?" she suggested, holding up a camo fabric that. "It could really make your costume pop!"
Koda looked at it thoughtfully. "Yeah, I like that, It would definitely stand out…in a sense" he said, inciting a giggle from Bubbles. As they ventured on, his enthusiasm grew, and Bubbles couldn't help but feel a swell of pride at being part of his creative process. It's no secret that her big friend was one of the shyest people she has met, but he was also one of the sweetest and loved that he opened up to her. They spent the morning diving into different stores, Koda becoming more animated with each idea they explored, though Bubbles had to shoot down some ideas of adding too much and vice versa on hers.
Bubbles loved seeing his confidence grow, and soon they had gathered a collection of materials that sparked their imagination. As they made their way out of a particularly colorful craft shop, Bubbles felt a rush of satisfaction. "We really found some great stuff today!" she said, her voice bubbling with joy. Koda nodded, his cheeks flushed with happiness.
"Thanks for helping me, Bubbles," he said, his voice, at an audible tone now, as they made their way to the register. "I really appreciate it."
Bubbles smiled back at him. "It's no problem at all! You're my friend, and I'm having so much fun!" Her cheerful spirit was contagious, and Koda couldn't help but smile, his cheeks tinged pink.
Bubbles was wanted to check out one last thing that caught her eye, so she told Koda and he had no problem waiting by the register. Koda stood by, minding his own business, when a young boy, no older than ten, suddenly approached him, his eyes wide with curiosity. He stared at Koda, making him shift uncomfortably.
Koda shifted a bit, before just addressing the child. "H-hey there…is something wrong?" he asked gently.
The boy didn't answer. Instead, he pointed at Koda and shouted, "Rock Beast!" as the words rang out, it caught the attention of several people in the store. Koda's face flushed with embarrassment, it was then that Bubbles, who was making her back, and like the other people in the store, heard and felt her heart drop. She ran over to the scene. "Hey! That's not nice!" she exclaimed, her tone firm but still kind. "You shouldn't say that to people, especially ones you don't know."
Before the child could say anything, just then, a woman, presumably the child's mother, strode in, her expression stern. "Don't shout at my child!" she snapped at Bubbles.
Taken aback, Bubbles replied, "B-but your son was being rude!" she firmly said. "It's not okay to say things like that."
The woman scoffed, brushed her off dismissively. "Kids will be kids, and honestly, your friend does look like a rock beast," she pointedly said. "Besides, if people like him, don't like people staring, he should cover up when he goes out in public." Her tone dripped with condescension.
"Excuse me, what do you mean, "People like him" exactly?" crossing her arms, a faint glow emanated from her palms.
She rolled her eyes, "I said what I said."
Before she could continue, Koda gently tugged on her arm, whispering, "I-it's okay, Bubbles…really…I'm fine," his voice was soft, but Bubbles could hear the hint of sadness behind his words. Like he was defeated.
"Koda…" She looked at him, torn. She could sense that he wasn't fine, but didn't want to cause more trouble. "…okay, let's go."
The woman huffed, "You should listen to your friend, atleast he knows that what I said is the truth. Maybe he can teach you how to respect your elders," and turned to leave with her child, who had some decency to look bit ashamed. Bubbles felt a mix of frustration and concern as they paid for their items. Koda remained quiet, his shoulders slumped, clearly affected by the encounter.
As they stepped outside, Bubbles glanced at him. "Do you want to talk about it?" she asked gently.
Koda shook his head, his voice barely above a whisper. "Maybe next time."
Bubbles felt a knot in her stomach. She wanted to help him feel better but didn't want to push. After a moment of hesitation, Koda surprised her by pulling her into a soft hug. "Thanks for being a good friend," he said, his voice muffled against her hair.
Bubbles hugged him back tightly, wishing she could take away his discomfort. "You're welcome, Koda. I'll always be here for you."
They broke apart, and Koda offered a small smile. "Bye, Bubbles and thanks again for today."
"See you tomorrow, Koda!" she called as he walked away, feeling a lingering sadness. The encounter still weighed heavily on her heart. With a sigh, Bubbles decided to take a walk. She needed to clear her mind, hoping that the fresh air would lift her spirits. She found a nearby park and sat quietly on the park bench, lost in thought 'I hope Koda is okay? That woman…she had no right to-' when she suddenly felt a presence nearby.
She turned to see a girl who looked to be about her age, with skin the color of pale moonlight and messy, light pink hair that spiked out wildly. The girl's unusual crimson eyes sparkled with mischief and curiosity. Sharp claws tipped her fingers, and her smile revealed slightly elongated canine teeth, giving her an edgy look that blended cute and fierce.
"Hey there!" the girl exclaimed, her voice high and lively. "I couldn't help but notice you were sad, so I came over to ask. What's with the frown? You're way too cute to look like that!" She giggled.
Bubbles, a bit surprised, managed a small smile in response, although the heaviness in her heart lingered. "Thanks, but… I just had a rough day."
The girl shrugged nonchalantly, leaning against the bench as if they were old friends. "Rough days are like annoying people, they eventually pass away!" she said cheerily, making Bubbles curious about the analogy.
"But hey, you know what?" she abruptly continued. "I've got a bright idea! Let's forget about the idiots of this world and go have some fun!" Before Bubbles could respond, the girl grabbed her wrist and pulled her up with surprising strength.
"W-wait, where are we going?" Bubbles asked, stumbling to her feet, her eyes wide with surprise. "I don't even know your name!"
"To the arcade first, silly!" the girl chirped. "And you can call me Yuki!" she said, dragging Bubbles along. With a grip on Bubbles' wrist that felt like a playful vice, they left the park and headed to the street.
Bubbles didn't know this girl at all; she knew she should have resisted. Yet there was something about Yuki that stirred her sympathy, as if she were hiding something beneath a mask. Trusting her instincts, Bubbles took hold of the girl's hand as well. She turned to face Yuki with one of her kind smiles. "Okay, let's go! Oh, and you can call me Bubbles," she replied, matching Yuki's speed. She didn't notice a slight change in Yuki's expression. "I know! I saw you on TV!" Off they went.
As they approached the neon-lit arcade, Bubbles felt her eyes widen in wonder. The building was adorned with vibrant lights flashing in all colors, drawing in a lively crowd. The sounds of cheerful music, laughter, and the clatter of arcade machines filled the air, creating an electric atmosphere. Bubbles had never been to an arcade before, and the sheer energy of the place was intoxicating.
Inside, the walls were lined with rows of games, each one competing for attention with its flashing lights and catchy sound effects. Yuki pulled Bubbles toward a racing game, her enthusiasm contagious. "Come on! Let's see who's the best driver!"
As they settled into the game, Bubbles felt a rush of exhilaration, different from flying, of course. The vibrant colors of the screen and the rumble of the controls heightened her senses. They played several rounds, laughing and taking goofy selfies with oversized plush prizes, which added to the whimsical atmosphere. Bubbles found herself relaxing, the earlier incident fading into the background like a distant memory. The thrill of competition, mixed with the joy of unexpected friendship, washed over her.
Next, Yuki grabbed Bubbles and led her to a karaoke booth, its walls lined with colorful lights and adorned with fun decorations. "Your turn! Sing something fun!" she insisted, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
Bubbles didn't hesitate for a moment; Yuki's infectious enthusiasm encouraged her. She took the microphone, her heart racing as she belted out a bubbly pop song, the lyrics flowing easily as she lost herself in the melody. Yuki danced around her, clapping and cheering loudly, her vibrant spirit bringing a smile to Bubbles' face. The booth was filled with laughter, and for a moment, the world outside felt far away.
Later in the afternoon, after their whirlwind of games and songs, they ended up at a nearby café, where they enjoyed desserts and talked. Bubbles was on her phone, sending a quick text in their group chat.
RedBow: Hey, Bubbles, glad you're doing fine. If it's not a bother, could you please get me a strawberry cheesecake on your way home?
ButtePunch: Yeah! I want chocolate cake from there, too!
RedBow: Buttercup…
ButtePunch: …please
She rolled her eyes fondly, before she sent a quick "yes," and then looked up at Yuki, who merely tilted her head. "Do I have something in my teeth?" she giggled.
Bubbles shook her head. "No, it's not that. I just feel bad that you're not eating. I offered to pay for your food," she said, feeling guilty.
Yuki merely chuckled. "You're sweet," she mused, a glint in her eyes. "But… I don't really have the same food preferences that other normal people do."
Just then, Bubbles groaned, her mood soured as she recalled the earlier events. "Oh, is it something I said?" Yuki asked curiously.
She sighed. "No… just remembering something that happened earlier, that's all," Bubbles shrugged to play it off, but Yuki wasn't having it.
"Oh, come on! I want the delicious details… maybe I can help. I'm a good listener," she persisted.
Bubbles thought it over. She didn't know this person well, but she felt that sharing her experience could help her understand more about the topic they were discussing. So she told Yuki everything that had happened and how it made her feel.
Yuki's expression shifted, a slight frown appearing, then a glint of mischief in her eyes. "Well, some people are just uncute when they act so ugly towards others." Then her demeanor changed again, a hint of darkness creeping into her smile. "Makes me want to make them all pretty…though, in my own ways," she mused.
Bubbles felt a knot in her stomach. "Yeah, it was awful. This woman was so judgmental. I just don't get why people can't respect each other, no matter how different we all look."
Yuki chuckled, a hint of sadness flickering in her eyes. "You must be new here or something. People judging others? It's kind of the norm. Those who don't fit into the box get looked down on."
Bubbles frowned, shaking her head. "Even if that's how it is, it's still not right. Everyone deserves kindness. We should all love and understand each other."
Yuki's smile faltered, and she brushed Bubbles off playfully. "Love and understanding? That's a fairy tale, sweetie. People like us," she paused, glancing at her reflection in the window, "are never seen as normal. We live in a world where no one is made equal, and those who have the privilege to accept that—well, let's just say you learn to like being alone."
Bubbles took a deep breath, her heart swelling with empathy. "You know," she said softly, "you're not alone. If you want, I can be your friend."
Yuki paused for a moment, stunned, before a laugh bubbled up from her lips. The sound was unexpected, and Bubbles felt a little taken aback. When Yuki's laughter quickly faded, she smirked. "You're funny. You're serious, aren't you?" she stared. "You spent the day with a stranger, open up to them, and now you want to be friends? What if I was sent to hurt you? Or kidnap you? I could even want to do something more to my taste!" she said with a smirk that exposed her canines.
Bubbles held a blank expression for a moment, then burst into a warm smile that caught Yuki off guard. "Well," Bubbles said, shaking her head gently, "let's just say I know you wouldn't do that, seeing as you had certain chances today. Besides, you seem like a good person, even if you're wearing a mask."
The comment caught Yuki off balance. "What mask? I don't understand what you mean," she replied, trying to play it cool, but there was a slight edge to her voice.
Bubbles took a sip of her tea, contemplating her words. "I understand what it means to be a bit different where I'm from, but I won't pretend to know what you're going through, Yuki. But I'd like you to know we can be friends."
Yuki didn't respond immediately. Instead, she stared at Bubbles, her gaze unfocused. Then she looked away, as if the words had struck a nerve. "Not everyone needs a friend," she muttered, her tone dropping as she stood up.
"Wait, where are you going?" Bubbles asked, her brow furrowing in confusion.
Yuki turned around, her expression shifting back to a wide, almost unsettling smile. "I suddenly got hungry! The place to get my special food is just a few blocks away."
Bubbles hesitated, a frown forming. "Do you want me to escort you?"
Yuki muttered something under her breath, barely a whisper, but Bubbles couldn't catch it. "Nice talking to you," Yuki said, her smile still plastered on her face as she turned and walked away without looking back.
Bubbles watched her go, a swirl of thoughts racing through her mind. What just happened? The unexpected warmth of their earlier connection felt like a distant memory now. She stood there for a moment, feeling a mix of concern and curiosity about Yuki, before reluctantly turning back toward the café to fulfill her sister's favors.
(-)
Bubbles stood at the counter, double-checking her order with the barista. After handing over the money, she received her treats with a bright smile. "Thank you!" she chirped, her cheerful tone bouncing off the café walls.
Just as she was about to head out, the door swung open, and her heart sank. There, standing before her, was the last person she wanted to see, the same woman from the store. The moment their eyes met, the woman visibly sneered, a look that reminded Bubbles of Bakugou's trademark scowl. 'I guess she's still in a mood?'
Paying her no mind, Bubbles walked past her, the woman reciprocated, barely acknowledging her presence. Finally outside, she took a few steps away from the café, heading toward the train station. Suddenly, a voice called out, "LADY, WAIT!" Bubbles turned to see the little boy from the store running after her, he stopped, catching his breath. Surprised, she asked gently, "Hello, is something wrong?"
The boy didn't say anything, shifting uncomfortably, his face marred with unease. Bubbles sensed it and was about to comfort him when he blurted out, "I-I'm s-sorry for what I did at the store!" he stammered "I d-didn't mean to make your f-friend so uncomfortable. He j-just reminded me of this c-cool video game character, you know…and…I was s-so excited…but I'm really sorry." His misty eyes looked up at Bubbles, overflowing with guilt.
Bubbles was taken aback. She wasn't angry with the boy; her frustration had been directed at his mother. But seeing him take responsibility touched her heart. A warm smile spread across her face as she knelt down, pulling him into a gentle hug. "It's okay," she reassured him softly. "Just try to be more mindful of how your words affect others, okay?"
He nodded against her shoulder, whispering another apology. Bubbles rubbed his back, continuing to soothe him. "Really, it's okay," she said, her voice calm and kind.
After a moment, Bubbles spotted the boy's mother returning from the restroom. Not wanting to stir up any more trouble, she gently encouraged the boy, "Why don't you run back to your mom? She might be worried about you."
The boy nodded, giving her one last hug before racing back inside. Bubbles stood there for a moment, reflecting on the encounter. 'This world isn't like Townsville, but it still has people who are kind and understanding.' She thought, making her way home.
-Unknown alleyway-
Yuki strolled down an eerily quiet street, the late afternoon sun casting long shadows across the cracked pavement. The air felt thick, heavy with a silence that hinted at something lurking beneath the surface. Dilapidated houses loomed on either side, their paint peeling and windows darkened, creating an unsettling atmosphere.
As she walked, she couldn't help but think about the day she had. 'That girl is really weird…Though, I did have fun beating her at the games, today..." she stopped in her tracks "It's a shame I didn't have much of a taste for her in the end; I wonder why?' she thought to herself. '…she looked really strong and sweet,'
"Not alone… friends…" Yuki mused to herself, a faint smile threatened to tug at the corners of her lips. But that thought was quickly overshadowed by the reality of her existence. Just then, a couple of seedy-looking guys stepped out from an alleyway, their expressions leering and predatory. Yuki didn't flinch; she simply regarded them with a bored expression.
"Hey there, little freaky mutant," one of them catcalled, stepping closer. "What's a girl like you doing all alone?"
"Don't you worry," the other chimed in, smirking. "We're just looking out for you. There are some bad people out there who wouldn't take kindly to someone like you." Yuki maintained her cool demeanor, an enigmatic smile playing on her lips. The two men exchanged glances, clearly misjudging her calm. One of them took a step forward, his intentions clear.
"Well, since you have no objecti-" But before he could touch her, Yuki's hand shot out like a flash, gripping his arm with surprising strength. The man's eyes widened in shock as she twisted, applying pressure until he screamed, "Let go!" Her expression remained focused, unwavering. With a swift motion, she released him, sending him stumbling backward into the wall of the alley. He groaned, disbelief washing over his face.
The other guy, anger flashing in his eyes, shouted a stream of profanity. "We were going to go easy on you, but not anymore!" Activating his quirk, with a flick of his wrist, knives extended from his palms, glinting in the dim light.
Yuki smiled, but it was no ordinary smile, it was predatory. "Thank you for the offer," she said, her voice taking on an unsettling tone. "But I don't think you're my type…"
Suddenly, her skin began to dissolve, leaving the men paralyzed with horror. As gray, viscous liquid peeled away from her, it revealed that her skin had been a disguise all along. The girl before them was transformed: her fair skin glowed in the dim light, her crimson eyes shifting to inward-tilting yellow with thin, slit-like irises. Her hair changed to a pale ash-blonde, styled into two messy buns that framed her face.
With a wide smile, she continued, "But…I think you would be cuter if you wore something…red." A maniacal laugh escaped her lips, revealing her sharp, vampiric teeth, before she jumped the screaming men; their voices echoing through the walls.
She sighed. "Yuck! Those guys were disgusting, outside and INSIDE!" the girls remarked, wiping her face of the horrid taste. "Oh well, no accounting for taste, when you're hungry," she shrugged, leaving the bloodied scene, without a care in the world.