Recap: In the last chapter, the Sports Festival was finished with a bang after your battle against Todoroki and Bakugo, the latter winning without an inevitable win, much to his disappointment.

With your swirl of uncertainties cleared after talking to Tsuyu and Todoroki before the match, you found yourself putting more of your all onto the battle, a twinge of disappointment coming at you at your inevitable loss. Nonetheless, you find yourself enjoying the last few moments of the Sports Festival, giggling with your friends about photos while trying to save a Drifloon being dragged by the hands of a little child. At the end of the day, knocked out and satisfied, you got a strange message from the detective, asking you to meet him the very next day. Wonder what that's about? Guess it's time to find out-!

❧❧❧

The next day after the Sports Festival

❧

In hurried thunderous steps, you raced off to the nearest station.

You felt like a mess, throwing on the most decent clothes you can find that'll match enough before you were heading out of the dormitory hastily, dragging your bag with you.

You tapped your phone open repeatedly, checking the time. "10.12...Damn it, Meowth! Why didn't you tell me-!" You groaned in frustration, remembering waking up slowly, a bit dazedly to check the time, only to see a new message you hadn't check.

Meowth sleepily murmured about something involving the 'police station' and 'detective' and something about 'meeting at 8' once you inquired about it quietly, still slightly dazed from the sleep in your system, as you slowly took in his words.

That woke you up with a start.

Darn it! You didn't mean to fall asleep so early or wake up this late, but after the Sports Festival, you supposed it was a much-needed rest on your part as you couldn't quite blame yourself for this mishap. However, that still doesn't change that you were feeling nervous, as it was rare for the detective to call upon you all of sudden. With only small regret lingering within you, remembering as you panicked around the dorm to hurry up, surprising all your Pokemon awake, you tasked yourself to run even faster.

You weren't too familiar with where the station was, but it was nothing but a simple google search for you to find it to be at least a 15-minute walk into the city. Passing by the various pedestrians and high-rise buildings, you finally made it to the station.

You open the door hastily, garnering a few officers' attention at the abruptness. You refused to acknowledge their stares in embarrassment, focusing on finding the Detective, who was talking to an officer at the corner. Once the investigator, Tsukauchi, with his signature brown overcoat and matching hat noticed your arrival, he excused himself from the conversation, smiling easily at your nervous self.

"Uh...um, I'm sorry Tsukauchi-san." You worded, embarrassingly trying to find the right words to convey your regrets on being so late. The Detective only tilted his head, a polite smile resting on his face as you apologized curtly. "I didn't mean to make you wait so long."

The Detective wasn't bothered, laughing a little causing you to feel more nervous. "No, it's okay. It's actually I that has to apologize." He took off his hat, bringing it down as an apology. He did look a tad sorry, giving a soft smile. "You just had the Sports Festival after all. I knew you were going to be tired today, but I needed you to come asap."

You nodded slowly, taking in the detective's words. You raised your head at Tsukauchi, who turned a tad serious. You knew that this was serious business. You asked wording carefully. "...What is it?"

He sent a small smile, a thankful one before he gestured you to follow him. "I'll tell you on the way, there's something that we need to test, and you're the only one that can help."

With those words, you could only curiously frown. You wondered what did the detective mean by that. Nonetheless, you followed him to his small car, as he drove with a destination in mind, leading you on a small mission.

『 Chapter Forty 』

As the kind man he was, Tsukauchi seemed to have known you hadn't had your fair share of breakfast and had brought you something to snack on. Once again, he apologized for the abruptness, as you chewed on the mini-mart readymade sandwich, biting through the lettuce mayo clustered bread.

Amidst the chewing, you can't help but find it to be a bit of a strange situation, as it's rare for the detective to ask for your help for his investigation. He tended to be incredibly secretive about things, even regarding the Pokemon organization you're affiliated with. But you trusted this man, you knew him for a while, and he's always helping out the Pokémon's cause. It's only right that you returned that notion, but then a sense of worry drowses you.

This isn't about Gardevoir and the others, right?

Sure, it's not for sure that the people's opinion had a 180' degree spin a day to hatred towards the Pokemon, but you were sure you garnered enough interested cheers to make sure Gardevoir doesn't get taken away from you, right?

You fiddled with the sandwich nervously, side-eyeing the detective driving the car leisurely. Shifting in the tiny space you had, you argued with yourself on whether you should ask, or stay completely quiet.

Sensing your worries, perhaps from the way you paused mid-bite, Tsukauchi talked. "Ah-about Gardevoir." You flinched, putting your full attention completely on him. Tsukauchi let a small kind smile, that eased your nervous-rampaging brain. "There's nothing for you to worry about, after everything that went down, I'm sure the commissioner was impressed."

That completely calmed you down, and you went back to chewing. The tension was completely washed away as you slumped gratefully. Although his words aren't certain to be the outcome of the commissioner's decision, you at least know that your Pokemon are still going to stay with you for the time being. You reached a hand to your heart, thankful, as you attempted to squeeze it to calm it.

You drifted your gaze back to the Detective, curiosity lingering through them. "Then, what is this about...?"

The Detective calmly turned to the intersection, a silence enveloping the car as he does so. When a considerable amount of time has passed of you just eating and Tsukauchi driving, he began. "It wasn't my first choice to do this, but we wanted to test this out-in fact, you're our last option." The investigator started, as you chewed the snack lazily, cut evenly into two triangular-shaped sandwiches. He sent you a glance. "It's about the Nomu."

You sat a little straighter, curiously side-eyeing the man. "...The Nomu from USJ?" You asked, more like trying to affirm. You felt a little nervous at the strange creature being brought up, looking out the window to try to guess where you were heading. "...What about the Nomu?"

The Detective began his usual authority dance and what-not, speaking ever so kindly. "I'm not asking you to help out completely with the investigation, but after All Might's share of input regarding it..." You narrowed your eyes in confusion. "We decided we could give it a chance."

You contemplated. All Might's input? Regarding the Nomu? You looked off, thinking about what the blond, heroic man could possibly have said to get you into this situation, but then you remembered.

That's right. All Might said something about your quirk being able to lure the Nomu. At least, it acted strange when you appeared during the scene after you talked it out with Gardevoir.

"I see." You nodded slowly, processing this information carefully. "So, you think there's a chance that the Nomu really was lured by me?"

The Detective didn't look certain, and he didn't hesitate to speak truthfully. "Honestly, I'm not sure. Calling a Nomu a form related to the Pokemon is a stretch."

You smiled, "Spoken like a true, (1) 'True Man'. But hey, you called them Pokemon! Was wondering when you'll give up on calling them that stuffy name."

The detective only laughed a tad. "Well, nonetheless, it's not a bad idea to give it a try." He was quick to assure though, speaking clearly. "But don't worry, we'll make sure to put some precaution if it does react."

"Huh." You answered nervously, so he's saying that it might attack you? "Well, that's good to know."

Sometimes Mr. True Man is too much of a true man.

Much sooner than anticipated, you arrived at where you assume was the holding ward for the Nomu. It was a little off from the city, probably as a precaution in case it ever escaped. Better than right in the middle of the city-smackdab in between rush hour, you presumed as you tailed after the Detective who led the way in.

Like every establishment like such, there's always a fair amount of Police officers for security, maybe a few heroes walking around. The building within is overall simple, but it's obviously not the type of place where the ordinary visitors would leisurely cross. You didn't do much but just follow the detective, who seemed to know exactly where he was going.

Of course, you had to sign a few papers here and there for confidential purposed, but other than that, everything went on quick before you were heading towards the Nomu.

It honestly just felt like going through a labyrinth, passing through doors, and doors, and even more doors. With clean white walls on every side boxing you in, the few potted plants, police officer patroller, and metal doors gave enough color that you didn't feel like you were in a hospital. Finally, after what seemed like a fast-paced walk, Tsukauchi peered behind, explaining. "Okay, we're almost here. I'll have to talk with the security there for a minute of course, but we should be all set."

"Okay."

You both slowed in steps, only a double door before you, which you assume must be where they were keeping that frightening being. An unease drew inside your heart, worries catching on quickly - but you pushed forward, trying to keep your confidence up. If it'll help out with the investigation, then you're fine with doing this.

The Detective went to open the door, still looking back at you in reassurance. You were thankful that he was going to be with you. It definitely did ease you more to know he was going to accompany you every step of the way. As his back faced the door, his hand on the handle. He halted before them, before assuring you again. "Once again, I just want to remind you that I'll do my utmost to make sure your safe, alright?"

Stopping on this hallway, you felt yourself going drain from all the walking you had to do, as you teased just a little jokingly. "Yes, I'm pretty sure you've reassured me for the 5th time already."

"Still...I'm sorry." Detective Tsukauchi apologize, probably feeling bad that he had to leave it all on your hands in the end.

You waved off his apologies, maintaining your stance to stay polite. "It's really alright. I already know what I was signing up for by the time we've entered."

The detective smiled a little, completely thankful. "...then thank you, once again." Still clutching the handle, he now gets down to business, eyes set to a stern look. "Before anything, just wanted to let you know that once we enter here, the Nomu is held within one of the rooms inside." Your eyes briefly landed on the door's window. "We'll need to make preparations before-,"

"Ah, Tsukauchi-san, wait, there's-," You were barely able to complete your sentence as your eyes zeroed on to the door window, seeing someone suddenly behind the door, the color red burning through your eyes.

Rather, all you saw behind the door, were red feathers.

"Hmm, what's wrong-?"

As the door was pushed open by Tsukauchi abruptly, you waited for the harsh unintentional impact. Wincing readily, you were thankful that that someone behind the door was a bit quicker than you thought.

They held the door to a stop, preventing the detective from slamming the metal door onto this person's face. Tsukauchi looked at the door in surprise, as their black-gloved hand held the door in place, a voice echoing out at the predicament. "Whoops. That was a close one-!"

You felt yourself sighing in relief. That could've been a disastrous moment as the man, you assume by the roguish of his voice, spoke lightheartedly.

"Ah-sorry, that was my bad." Tsukauchi apologized, as the man behind responded even-tempered, not an ounce of him seemed mad.

"No worries, no worries." With an easygoing and friendly tone, a voice that was smooth yet somehow, rather knowing echoed out. The man behind the door was quick to reveal himself, and you were left tilting your head curiously.

One thing you had noticed was the way this stranger smiled, a mixture of perhaps fun and a smirk reflecting in it. It gave off this feeling that he was confident, perhaps of himself, and a sign of easiness just from the way he stood and look. With blondish, more goldish really, windswept hair, as if it was blown by the wind daily, he rested his yellow-visor on top of them, looking like he was using it as a headband. He had one of his blacked gloved hands stuff into his pants, the other holding the door as he revealed himself fully.

Dressed outlandishly in a tan, high-collared jacket with a black shirt, along with matching brown loose trousers, you were sure now, that this person was...an incredibly laid back person.

It's funny how you decided to overlook the biggest characteristics of this man, with his red wings just tucked in on his back, a rather bright color that sticks to the eye. They were pretty. You haven't even seen them in their expanse, but you were sure there's a sort of majesticness to them that just couldn't be described that easily.

The man's smile seemed to widen, shutting his eyes relaxedly. "It's my bad too, I shouldn't have been standing in front of the door anyways."

The Detective called out, eyes widening bewilderedly. "Hawks?!" You tilted your head curiously, your form still being concealed by Tsukauchi's form. He didn't look like an officer, so you assume he was a hero. You frowned contemplatively. You were sure you've heard people talking about this hero before, but you weren't quite sure as you peeked at him carefully-trying to be very subtle. Tsukauchi was the first to smile politely. "What are you doing here?"

"Just went to check on that Nomu there." Hawks easily answered, speaking swiftly and calmly. He threw his thumb to the door, explaining further. "I'm investigating under the orders of the commissioner."

Commissioner huh? Where that man that almost took away your Pokemon from you before worked in? The memory made you upset, but you reminded yourself that your Pokemon are safe. At least for now.

Other than that, this hero guy works for them? You looked at him, eyeing him a little judgingly. He...doesn't seem like he fits there, especially if you're comparing the stern-faced man sitting in the dorms and this laidback hero, stuffing his hands in his pants without a thought. Yeah, there's definitely a wide comparison between those two. You huffed.

"Oh! Looks like you're not alone Detective," Hawks had stretched his head a little to the side, catching your startled jump. Did he hear you? "Oya?" Hawks honestly didn't seem surprised by your presence as he went to address you, smiling easily as per usual, but you caught the way his gold eyes looked taken back once he took in your appearance. He blinked perplexedly for a moment, looking like a lost pigeon. Does he recognize you? you thought just as confused at his bewilderment, waiting for his next reaction.

"Oh hey!" Hawks eyes lit up, his smile returning. "You're the one in the Sports Festival, with the Pokemon right?" Oh, he did recognize you. You felt your cheeks burn in embarrassment. God, somehow, you keep forgetting that everything that happened during the Sports Festival was broadcasted for the entirety of Japan. He seemed to scour around you, looking for something much to your agitation. "You were good, kid. Didn't bring any of your Mon with you today, huh?"

"Oh, um...yeah." You responded perplexedly. "And uh, thanks."

Hawks wasn't deterred by your awkward wording, still looking exceptionally bright. "So what brings you here?"

The Detective decided to save your grace now, intervening in the conversation. "Ah, (Last)'s here to help with the investigation." Tsukauchi placed a hand on your shoulder, grabbing your attention. "It's about the Nomu."

That's when Hawks raised a very peculiar bushy brow. "Oh?" He glanced at both of you, considering the thing the detective was hinting. Then he loosely smiled, tilting his head as he proposed. "Well, I was about to head out since I was done investigating here for the day, but I can help out if you're okay with that, Detective?"

Tsukauchi doesn't seem bothered, a bit taken aback, but he easily welcomed. "That would be a great help." Then he widened the door, "Alright, (Last), I'll be talking with the people here. Just wait here first."

"Okay." You all entered through the wide room, that looked to be section off to where the Nomu is held. The Detective waved, heading away for a moment to discuss with the security team before they could conduct the experiment. You sighed, heaving off your nervousness. You hope that everything will go well after you stepped through that room, as you basked in your thoughts on your lonesome.

...

You failed to account that a certain hero was still standing next to you, eyeing you with a laidback smile.

"So, (Last)-san, right?" You raised your eyes away from the floor to listen to Hawk's curious quip, he smiled laxly, trying to seem polite. "I never got to introduce myself, I'm Hawks."

You looked at him blankly, answering sort of numbly. "So I've heard."

Hawks expression went to brief surprise, only to change to a laugh easily. It wasn't the force-kind of laughter, it sounded like he genuinely found something laughable in your statement. "Haha, you're pretty funny." He snickered, sending you a knowing look. "But you don't really know who I am, do you?"

You furrowed your brows. "...Yes, I do. You're Hawks."

Hawks only snickered a bit again. "I see...anyways, can you fill me in while we wait for the Detective? What is he asking you to do exactly?"

You paused, eyeing the bird-like man. You couldn't quite say he didn't or did look like a bird, but he had his quirk that made him like so, and you assume that it was the biggest influence to his outlook. Your contemplative stare was returned with the same smile he's been holding, unfazed by your obvious leering. You wondered if he was just genuinely laid-back, or there was something more to it before you decided there was no harm or foul in telling Hawks, who did say he wanted to help. "...Tsukauchi-san asked me to test something out. During the USJ attack," Hawks listened attentively, which you took notice. "The Nomu...seemed to react when I got close. So he wanted to test something out."

"Ahh, is that so?" Hawks questioned, he ruffled his wings a bit, shifting your gaze to it for a minute. A few feathers are quick to fly off, as he asks in a curious hum. "What was your quirk again?"

"Oh...I lure the Pokemon." You replied softly, quiet enough you were worried he wouldn't be able to hear. Oh, but he definitely picked it up, reaching a gloved hand to his chin, where a faint stubble laid.

"Alright, I see. Thanks for catching me up on that!" He sent you a cherry grin, and finally, he left you alone. He whistled softly, not bothered by the silence that followed after the conversation as you both stood next to each other quietly.

"..." You frowned a little, bothered by that odd conversation. You decided to ask some questions of your own. "Hawks-san," Your call earned you a small hum from the smiley man. "You're a pro-hero right?"

"Yup!" He answers dutifully, teasing you a little. "Spot on, did the wings gave it away?"

"Um..." You couldn't answer that, as you simply meandered the questions about something else, eyes finding more entertainment away from him. "You said you work with the commissioner, isn't that right?"

"Hm, yeah." He responded with a nod. Your eyes gleam as a thought followed after. If that's so, then he might know what the commissioner plans to do for Gardevoir!

"Then-!" You halt, stopping mid-shout. Hawks hummed with a furrowed look as you quickly reassembled yourself, remembering that you didn't even know this man that much. Your excitement garnered you a subtle look of curiosity, as you worded again. "...They must be pretty surprise by the Pokemon's appearances, huh?"

Hawks nonchalantly replied. "Well, the Pokemon have been around the centuries, but I hardly think anyone expected this outcome." You side-eyed the pro, he gave you a closed-eye smile. "Man, I remember the first time I heard about those cute Monsters, never quite saw one in the flesh! You should bring them sometimes-!"

"You've heard of them...?"

"Yup, well, only when I started my hero duties."

"I see." You felt a little unnerved, your wariness causing to pause for a minute. "I'll keep that in mind sometimes then..."

"Haha, that'll be great!" Hawks grinned, leaving that conversation to dry up and shrivel. Just like that, the both of you waited for the Detective to come back, your head swirled with thoughts of curiosity regarding the winged-fellow beside you.

Subtly, out of the corner of your eyes, you narrowed them down to watch as he laxly continued whistling a tune while the both of you waited for the return of the detective, hands stuffed in his pockets without a care in the world.

But as lax as he appears, the way he speaks and the way he acts, don't quite match up. You frowned, remembering the way he seemed to know you were behind Tsukauchi from the start and the way he questioned you. His questions were...a bit strange.

There's no mistaking it as you narrowed your eyes further.

This man, he's smarter than he acts.

❧❧❧

Finally, the Detective came with a few readied officers, all carrying their protective gears from shields to guns. You would've almost thought that this was a little too excessive if you didn't know what the Nomu was exactly capable of. Yeah, the guns and shields are necessary.

In fact, you think they're a little unprepared.

Nonetheless, they all filed into the room where the Nomu was held as Tsukauchi walked over to you worriedly. "Are you sure you're okay with this? It's completely fine for you to back out, we can test it out in another way."

You felt thankful he said that, it eased you, but you were just curious about this as well. You wondered, was it really possible for you to do such a thing? You still had your doubts about it, but it's best to confirm it now when things were at least able to be contained.

You worried. If there was one of these abominable creatures just lurking around, then how can you say that this would be the last one you'll see? You affirmed, nodding confidently. "I'm fine. Let's do this."

Tsukauchi could only return the nod, smiling. "Alright then."

Hawks inputted in the side, assuring you. "Bold, kid. But you don't need to worry, I'll make sure to keep ya safe."

You barely noticed it, but he had a small accent. Must be from the lower region, at least you assumed. You nodded thankfully, as you suppose a Hero's presence eased you a little bit more. With a deep breath, you followed the two who entered the room first.

When you entered the room, you were quick to appoint the hulking figure strapped on a seat. It was the Nomu, the same horrifying features where his brain was jutted out, and wide blank eyes, holding no certain emotions. He was strapped in a straitjacket, another lock of leather wrapping him with a rope attached to them, making sure in case the monster ever broke off for some reason or another.

He...was still intimidating to stare at. You were sure that this beaked fellow could crush anyone in this room's head like a grape with no trouble, as he stayed perfectly still, like a doll. You furrowed your brows, can you even call this thing living at this point...?

The air honestly felt frightening, and you were sure that you weren't the only ones who felt wary within this confinement. Nonetheless, some of the people seemed a little too lax, as if they were sure nothing would happen. He must've been this still for a long while.

"Ever since he got arrested, he doesn't make any noise." You perked at Tsukauchi's words, eyes pinned on the beast wisely. "He doesn't react to anything, at least so far. It's like he has no mind of his own."

"...Hmm, but during the USJ, he was completely compliant to the head villain." You voiced, remembering the man with the artificial hands all holding different parts of his body. You shivered, feeling the remnant of his fingers ghosting your skin, the mint-haired villain appearing so vividly and clearly in your head. Shaking it off, you frowned. "Maybe, he only listens to commands of whoever owns him?"

"Perhaps." Hawks voices, you were mildly surprised when he reached for his feather, an incredibly long one as if it was a sword. It had this certain sharpness to it that made you sure that it was a perfectly good weapon to slice up someone real good. He held it calmly, nodding your way. "But who knows, maybe today he'll react differently."

At his intonation, it seemed like it's finally time to set out your quirk. The Detective stood by your side, the both of you at the back of the room, the farthest away from the creature. All the guns were raised, pinpointing the beast readily. Hawks stood before you, sending you a brief wink that you could only blink at before you were faced with his overpowering wings.

Tsukauchi peered his eyes from underneath his hat. He nodded. "Ready when you are."

You hummed before you began pulling down your sleeves. You remembered how you found yourself wearing sleeved shirts, especially during the summer. The clothes you both wear were always layered with enough protective material to stop any scent from being released into the air. It was a pain, especially under the sweltering sun, so you preferred staying indoors with the air-con blasting. Though you always wanted to complain, you swallowed it all down, remembering that it was all due to the fact you couldn't control the output of your scent at all, long ago.

Now that you've grown, and you've trained a lot to keep the scent at bay, it was fine to use short-sleeved shirts. Sure the luring scent leeks out sometimes, but at this point, it's definitely much easier to keep it at bay. You find it funny how you still wore these overbearing shirts. You supposed that at some point, it just grew as a habit to wear the ones where the sleeves reached out to your wrists.

Rolling the sleeves carefully to your elbow. You focus your entire attention on trying to output all that energy that you've kept on bay. You inhaled and exhaled, as the scent permitted into the air. Wafting around the room.

The luring scent in particular does not affect the people around you. In fact, it was scentless to the lot of you. You always wondered what it smelled like to the Pokemon, wondering if it smelled horrible or enticing.

When the scent was surely permitting into the air, you raised your gaze back at the Nomu, who stayed silent. It was slightly unnerving how unreactive this beast had turned when you remembered vividly the way it slammed Aizawa's head against the concrete. The fact that this mindless crazed being is now like a silent doll left you nervous.

A few seconds passed by.

Silence, except for the shifting of someone, and the small prepared clicking of the rifles the officers held.

Hawks was silent, as he raised his feathered sword carefully. Perhaps if you were faced with his face, you would see the braced expression this hero would wear. But instead, you were given the sight of the way his wings expanded, just a bit, readily.

The Detective held his hand out to show the officers to be prepared, never leaving his gaze away from the being.

A few more seconds, still no reaction.

You were starting to feel like this was a dud. And that was especially showing to the surrounding officers, who seemed to relax under the lack of reaction. Until suddenly...

The Nomu's body twitched.

Under the strait-jacket, he shifted. And with that sight, the guns were raised even more preparedly. The soft sound of hitches from the officers' breaths, and the way the Detective shifted preparedly echoed through the room. You were sure everyone saw that, the detective even pulled his hat out of his head, leaning his head forward while Hawks reddish wings furrowed, as if unsettled.

He twitched again, this time a little bit more agitatedly.

The Detective whispered in awe. "It worked..."

In a sudden event in this unsettling situation, the beaked being, with pupils sliding over to the front, your eyes met. You froze, feeling like cold water washed over all of you at the blanked look he gave, every nerve in your body screaming for you to run.

And just that, all of a sudden, he screeched.

.

.

.

.

.

"YOOOOOOWWWWWWWWWWW!"

It was jarring, a scratchy screech that unsettled you down to the bone. You felt your whole body grow rigid at the awful blood-curdling screech, stiffening completely to a stand-still in fear. It was so loud that it was the only thing you could consider, sounding like a bird being butchered alive, screeching to the heavens in agonizing pain.

It was a yowl of pain. A yowl of intense emotions that couldn't be described with just one word. The being continued its screech of loud agony, beak gaped open widely showing rows of pointy teeth enough that send tremors all over your body.

Everyone around you was just was as unsettled from their expression, their eyes focusing waveringly on the being in sudden fear. Nervously holding up their weapons, they stood their grounds, faces twisted with nerves as the being screamed.

Yet even so, Hawks stood vigilant and still through it all.

Finally, in a crackling voice, it died down. The sound sounding like a dying record, unable to play the melody of a song no more. Once the creature was done with his screaming match, his head slumped forward, wide-eyes blankly looking off in no particular direction.

And he stopped moving.

Silence again, this time, a silence that was brought to the attention of unsettlement and fear. A man's legs were jittering from the shock, and you, yourself was watching the Nomu in stupefaction. Hawks after the screech had gone to expand his wings wider, but he didn't react once the Nomu shut down like a rundown computer- wary for its next act.

The Detective, in his own bewildered state, stayed silent. It was as if everyone was waiting for it to finally burst out of the strait-jacket they had put on him, rampaging and destroying the closest of people in its direction. The scent you release still holding onto the air, yet it didn't move.

Within a single hour after it screech, he didn't react again.

.

.

.

After a considerable amount of time of checking and precautions, you find yourself being walked out of the building by the Detective.

Realizing that the Nomu was truly unreactive, completely void of any reaction and whatnot after the events of its screech, everyone moved out of the room and begun their assessment. You waited for the Detective to finish his discussion with the officers before he finally decided it was time to take you back home.

As you left the still-shaken officers with their task, Hawks followed you two out- trailing after leisurely. Tsukauchi smiled a little, patting your shoulder. "(Last), thank you for your help." You gazed up at the visibly glad-eyed man, whose eyes seemed to still have this flash of astonishment, resembling the eyes of a voyager finding a lost treasure. "This helped us a lot. I'm sure it will lead us somewhere."

You smiled but then furrowed your brows in slight disappointment. "It's no problem. But I'm sort of...how do I put it?" You paused, wondering with narrowed eyes on the floor. "I was expecting more of a reaction. All he did was screech, really. I'm not really sure that has anything to do with me."

The Detective huffed a laugh. "What are you talking about? I told you that he hadn't reacted to anything at all. The fact that he even twitched with your scent is proof enough."

You huffed, "That might be so, but it's strange." You pressed, fixing the sleeve you had pulled up to your wrist again. "I've released the scent strong enough to actually try to get closer. The fact that that was the only thing it did sorts of baffles me." You softly murmured. "Perhaps it's wrong to call it the same as the Pokemon, but it was for sure attracted a bit."

Hawks, who walked a little behind, put his hands behind his head leisurely, asks after your analysis. "You said your quirk lures the Pokemon to where you are, right?" You nodded at the winged man's question. "Does it only apply to Pokemon? Or have there been instances when you lured something else?"

Your mind automatically supplied you with a person. Rather, it's much better to say some sort of quirk. Your eyes widened in recollection, "Actually, there is another that gets lured by my scent." Hawks hummed with a curious tilt of his smiley face. "There was Tokoyami-kun's Dark Shadow."

The Detective tried to remember, humming curiously. "Ah-the one you fought in the Sports Festival?"

Hawks nodded. "Right, the bird-boy! Tokoyami Fumikage, right?"

"Yes." You had no idea how Hawks knew Tokoyami's name, but you supposed he must've watched some of the Sports Festival. You murmured, still thinking pensively about how a Nomu could be lured by your scent. "Well, Tokoyami-kun's Dark Shadow is a sentient shadow monster, so perhaps it's more align with my 'Monster-luring scent'. Perhaps the Nomu is really just monster enough to align with my quirk, or perhaps there's a correlation with its numerous quirks instead." You frowned deepened. "Still, I can't be too certain..."

As you all finally reached outside the facility, the detective could only smile at you gratefully. "Don't worry, with this we at least know enough."

The hero by your side seemed to be contemplating something, humming in silent thought. You wondered what this Hawks guy was thinking before he turned to face you with a lazed smile, raising a hand like he was about to pat your back. "Today we learned some valuable information, so try not to be too hard on yourself, kid."

The pro hero unfurled his wide expanse of wings lengthily, showing just how long his wingspans are. His red-dripping feathers fluttering as you stared in mild awe at its majesticness. He dipped his head to bid his goodbye to both of you, a small quirk on his smile. "Then I'll be heading off, Tsukauchi. I'll need to send this information back to headquarters."

"Alright. We're thankful you were there, Hawks."

"No problem-o!" He answered, turning his fingers to show an OK sign before he addresses you, smiling cheekily. "Though this is probably unfair to the rest of the lot, I think you should definitely head to my agency (Last)-chan!"

Confusion settled in the bottom of your pit, both from his words and his familiarity tone in addressing your name. You decided to just ignore the latter and focus on the first, questioning attentively. "Why would I need to go there...?"

"Hm? you don't know?" Hawks questioned back, pulling down his visor to cover his eyes. His gold eyes were slightly more concealed under the thin goldish shade of the transparent eye-glass. He eyed you teasingly. "Oh right, U.A mustn't have told you yet. You'll be having your internships soon."

'Internships...' You remembered Aizawa explaining briefly before the Sports Festival, as the festival is a way for the students to get recognition from pro-heroes. You knew that, but you hadn't expected things to go this fast. You also briefly remembered something about that...Mountain girl or something? No-Mount lady and the other heroes scouting you to join their agency. You nodded. "Ahh...I see."

"Yup, I've sent my request for 3 people, first time doing this so I got ahead of myself, thankfully they allowed it." Hawks explained, holding three fingers up. "I'm pretty sure they were...right, there was Tokoyami Fumikage and Todoroki Shoto." He put down a finger after each name, leaving only one finger up to point at you. He smiled brightly, eyes closing as he mentions. "The last ones for you, (Last)-chan."

"Oh...uh, thank you." You replied questionably. Maybe if you were more excited for the internship with heroes you'd be giddy, but frankly, you're still not sure who this hero was.

"Haha, no worries!" Finally, that cheesy smile went away, as he looked at you kindly. You're still wary, as the man begins. "I like you, kid. I think we're more alike than you think!"

You...weren't sure how to respond to something like that. Once he said all that, his attitude shifted back to the usual act he's been giving. "Y'know, though I thought you were good, you're still definitely lacking in certain aspects. You should learn under me, and we could talk about the Pokemon and the USJ attack in more detail!"

You stepped back awkwardly as the Detective chuckle. "I see you're not holding off with your scouting, and you sure chose your choices quick when it's only been a day."

"What can I say? I like to get things done quick." He answered, smirking proudly. "I'm the type to try to do anything to get what I want."

You felt yourself raise a brow. He sure has a way of saying such words, doesn't he? You had a feeling that he made a lot of girl's swoon.

Besides that, remembering his earlier statement, you can't fault that he's not wrong that you're probably lacking in certain aspects. You hummed thoughtfully, wondering what's the best choice regarding that briefly.

In the end, you could only watch as with the sound of his finality, his wings began flapping, rising him from the ground. He looked down at you, that lax grin still on his face. "Well then, I'll wait for your answer (Last)-chan!"

You nodded hesitantly. Well, you decided the best thing you could say was... "I'll think about it."

Hawks smirked widened. "Alright, then I'll see you later! Hopefully much sooner! Then-," With that, he flew off, heading to the sky speedily. Once he reached a certain distance where you can still see him, he tipped his two-fingers in goodbye, like he was tipping off his hat, and then he was gone.

You could only watch in slight fascination as he flew off. He was a lot faster than you anticipated as the Detective also watched the hero go, smiling up at the fleeting man. "Charming guy, huh?"

"He's alright, I guess." You hummed lazily.

"Well then, I should probably get you home now. It's getting late." He looked at his watch, taking in that it took much later than he anticipated. From where the sun was dipped down, you say it's already evening. "I'll take out the car-,"

"No, it's okay Tsukauchi-san. I think I'll just walk back." You told, waving off his suggestion, who looked like he wanted to argue. "I kind of want to stop somewhere first anyways."

"That's fine, we can make a stop, oh-," Abruptly, his phone began ringing. It was obvious that duty calls and Tsukauchi is needed. You assured reassuringly.

"It's fine, I'll be quick. Thanks for taking me." You bowed, as the man nodded back, still looking worried.

"You're sure you can get home?" His phones ringing seemed to distract him, as he shifted his gaze from his phone to you. You nodded firmly, and that made him finally agree, sighing reluctantly. "Alright then, but make sure get back safely."

"Got it."

❧❧❧

After you journey all the way back to the city, you find yourself exiting out of a well-known restaurant, carrying a few bags on the way home.

As much as you liked to make dinner, you were exhausted from the aftermath of the festival, that day seemingly going on and on for hours. That's why you decided to buy some takeout. You figured, why not celebrate a bit after the Sports Festival since you couldn't do so yesterday? But sometimes, you forget that you don't necessarily have a small family waiting at home.

You hauled the bags tiredly, groaning at their weight. Maybe you really should've taken Tsukauchi's offer to give you a ride home, but you were certain you would be fine. If your legs give out on you, calling an uber isn't out of the question.

You walked down the sidewalk, eyeing passing shops and people leisurely as the people enjoyed their evening. It sure took a long while in the facility than it actually felt, as the sun took its time making its way down.

Your mind wandered to the Class President, Iida Tenya. From what you heard, Iida's brother got attacked in Hosu city by a villain by the name of the Hero Killer, Stain. You worried, opening your phone to check the new outlet, and there it was. Ingenium caught in attack meeting the Hero Killer.

You recalled that Iida had spoken very highly of his brother, as he is who Iida aspires to be. You wondered how Iida was holding up, as you would've texted but you hadn't even gotten to exchange numbers. You sighed.

Your eyes lingered on to a screening board showcasing the Sports Festival, one of your battles just literally shone before the wandering civilians, as your eyes bugged out.

My god, just how popular was the sports festival to be playing on every corner of the city. You walked past it, slightly covering your face with your hand to avoid anyone noticing that the one on the screen with Mimikyu, was you.

All of a sudden, your phone rang.

You blinked, eyeing down to see that it was...

"Yoarashi-san?" It was Inasa, the guy that you met at U.A's recommendation exam, and the one who went to Shiketsu instead. You gazed down at your phone curiously, before slowly dragging it to your ears in acceptance. You answered. "Hello...?"

"OOH! (LAST)-SAN!!" Your phone echoed a blaring shout, the device rattling at the mere volume of Inasa's voice. By his screech, you've garnered a few side-glances, and you could only try to hide your form deeper into your sleeves. Well so much for trying not to stick out. "(LAST)-SAN, ARE YOU THERE?"

"Yes, yes," You hurried along the road, speed walking if you will. You needed to get away now. "Yoarashi-san, it's surprising you're calling. Do you need something?"

You eyed about, as Inasa finally lowered down in volume, finding the minus volume button to his voice. "Nah, nothing needed! Just wanted to say I saw you at the Sports Festival!" Oh, so it was about the Festival, you mused.

"Ah, you were watching?" You turned to eye the screen again, murmuring a little in nervousness. "It feels like the whole Japan watched or something..."

"You were so passionate (Last)-san! it was a close win! I never knew you could be so passionate!" You hummed at his earnest commendations, the boy sounding incredibly hyperactive as per usual. "Oh! And the Pokemon! Their all so passionate as well! I had no idea you were connected with the Pokemon's-!"

You chuckled as your heart warmed. You asked teasingly. "Which Pokemon was your favorite to watch?"

That made him quiet for a minute, who was probably considering his question. "Lucario was passionate!" Ooh, he remembered the Pokemon by name, but then he added. "But Arcanine has this fieriness' I applaud in! All the Pokemon were super-heated in battle!"

"I see, that's good. I'm glad you enjoyed watching their battles." You calmly addressed, but then you ask curiously. "Is there another reason you're calling?"

"...No! That's it!"

"That's it?" You worded before you could only laugh a little harder. You forget how impulsive Inasa can be. You hummed, pressing your phone closer to your ear, as you proposed heartily. "It's been a while Yoarashi-san. We should meet up sometimes."

"Ooh!" Inasa awed, you felt like if he was right before you this instant, he would be nodding his head vigorously. "That would be great! Where should we hang out!?"

"Hmm, well I'm sure we can think about it later. If you have any places you want to go, that's fine too." You answered, eyeing around the city silently. Inasa sounded enthusiastic, and since you consider him as a growing friend, you don't see any reason why you shouldn't hang out. You listen to him rant on about different places, nodding and humming along whenever he suggested a place.

All of a sudden, you find yourself flinching as you froze a little in place.

Ignoring it, you tried to maintain your lack of awareness as your eyes danced to the store window, before walking slowly again, the boisterous voice of Inasa keeping you distracted enough.

It was strange how the feeling developed the more you walk, your unsettlement worsening as the small hair on the back of your neck raised. An uncomfortable feeling following you like a shadow, your nerves going haywire once more.

You felt watched.

And as usual, this hadn't been the first time this happened. With your phone still clasp to your ear to listen to Inasa's suggestions, you narrowed your head to the back, trying to catch a glimpse of anyone who was staring so intensely.

No one.

You were only pulled back to reality when you got another call, this time, from your mother. You quickly told Inasa first. "Ah, Yoarashi-san, I think I'll have to end this call first, my mother's calling. Let's talk more soon and set a time to meet."

"Yup, no problem! Then-!"

With that, the call ended, and you picked up the next call with ease. The unsettling feeling still crawling in your gut. You called out. "Hey, mom, what's going on?"

You peered back a second time, sounding a little warier. Your mother didn't seem to notice, answering with a shout. "'What's going on?' You could've at least called me when you finished with that darn festival but for some reason, you didn't?! Can't a mother call her daughter after watching her work her butt of on television!?"

"That's what this is about?" You murmured, this time knowing for a fact that you were being followed. However, the more within the presence of this stalker, the more you felt like maybe...just maybe you knew this person. You pocketed one of your hands, rolling a Pokeball of one the Pokemon you thought to bring, just in case. "I was tired, the Sports Festival really drained me."

Your mother huffed through the phone. "Well, I can definitely see that. But other than that, you honestly look like a hero of your own. Amazing! My daughter, a hero! With her lovely Pokemon by her side!"

You heard the sound of happy squeals, sounding like a fangirling girl who met eyes with their favorite idol. Any other day, you would've teased back, but in this situation, you could only hum, looking around carefully and discreetly.

Whoever was following you was being tenacious.

The feeling that this person brought with them was...similar. And you were quickly reminded of the time you went to the mall to hang out with Kaminari, the feeling you had at the end of that day as you were being followed. This person somehow exuded the same impression as the one you felt that day.

Though somehow, you felt sort of used to this by the number of times this happened after that time during the mall. The subtle feeling of someone watching you, constantly. It was unnerving, but at the very least they never pursued too hard. At least not as much as they were now.

Perhaps they have been discreetly following you all this time. You frowned, fear and anger bursting out.

"Oh by the way..." Your mother's slightly muffled voice reached you, as you walked carefully. There were still people on the pavement with you, you doubt they would show now. "...I know it doesn't matter if you do, but," She sounded hesitant. "Have you met up with your father yet...?"

You glanced to another side, trying to pinpoint where this stalker is. Maybe you're looking at the wrong area? "...Not yet." You answered briefly, this time slightly narrowing your eyes a little higher, seeing a shadowy person on one of the rooftops, quickly diving out of the way when you turned your attention there. Bingo. "...I'll go visit him soon. Maybe I'll see if I have time before internships."

"Internships already? Wow!" Your mother complimented, but you were blinded by a piece of information you have come to realize, light anger instead of fear covering your heart.

...You can't believe this.

You walked down the street, trying to seem as calm as you wanted to portray. As you walked leisurely, you felt whoever was following you tailing you as usual. You gazed at the pavement, before walking with stride towards a certain direction. An empty pavement, an empty street, and an empty alleyway as you stepped in.

The dirty alleyway wasn't the best choice, wouldn't be your first choice, but you stayed vigilant on your decision. You passed the thin mucking walls of two buildings, entering the dimmed area with ease, but most of all, fury. As your mother asked questions about the internships, you only replied quietly, not wanting to gain any more wrong attention.

"Mother." Your mom clamped quickly, surprised by the sudden seriousness in your voice. "I think I need to go now."

"Huh? What's wrong? Did something happen?"

"No, nothing like that." You kept your back to the street, walking deeper into the alley. The stare behind your head weighed heavily, as you basked in the silence that's beyond the phone call you're having. The damp area giving a sense of isolation, as you stepped closer to the darkness. "Just got something to do, I'll text you later."

Your mom didn't sound convinced, but she returned slowly. "Well...okay. But make sure to contact me real soon or I'm going to call you multiple times in a day, alright?"

You felt that they got closer, and in one swoop, the person appeared at the entrance of the alley, your back still faced their way. The shoes they wore made a thud as he stood back upright, looming by the entrance. You felt their eyes set on you.

You answered your mom, "Alright. See you."

When the call clicked off, silence greeted you. You could only stare at your phone for a minute, raising your head to peer back just a little at the figure shrouded by the light. They stood almost menacingly, staying calm. You narrowed your eyes down, calling out evenly. "You got some nerve tailing me..."

You fully turned, faced with this person head-on who stayed where he stood. He had his hands stuffed in his pockets for a moment, before pulling it off respectively to pull down the white hood belonging to his white coat off.

Your eyes gleaming seriously when you met the neutral expression of the familiar face, as you narrowed down your eyes carefully. "State your business,"

.

.

.

.

.

"...Kuruno Hari."

Act Two: The Essence of a Hero

Chapter: Nineteen to Forty [19 – 40]

[Complete/End]

(1) Apparently, Detective Tsukauchi is referred as 'True Man'. Perhaps a nickname!

Soo...Should we talk about the ending first or...?

Hahaha, gosh I'm so excited, and I'm glad we're finally starting the very next arc. What I'm definitely hoping for next arc is too write more interaction with characters that haven't been getting a lot of shine. I'll be working hard on creating more blooming love stories! Other than that, I'm excited to present even more Pokemon lore! More Pokemon publicity! And More Pokemon in general! Iida and the duo's fight with stain is exciting! And-what I'm definitely excited for...is writing Reader's backstory!

But before that, let's talk about Hawks and the Nomu! So we got a Hawks interaction peeps! I thought I did pretty good with his characterization, and honestly, he's really fun to write with. Gotta love some Hawks interaction! Some people have been suggesting Hawks as a love interest, and I'm still sort of thinking about it. But who knows! We'll have to see! Oh, and we also have a Nomu reaction to your quirk! Or was it a reaction...?

Also a little dab of Inasa here and there! He's such a fun character to write, I swear!

Now about that ending...well, I'm not sure if you all guessed it, but apparently it was Kuruno! If you don't remember who he is, it's Chronostatis. And if you still don't know who that guy is, either you need to watch season 4 or you simply forgot, hahaha!

Honestly this part of the backstory has been something I've been planning on implementing since day one. So, it's actually really exciting to get to this point! I've given you all as many clues as I have, actually, some of you have been making really great guesses and probably already know who reader is related too! I won't say much! But if you know, you know ;) Hope you enjoy, and see you in the next chapter!!