writtingchallengeararepair

[writtingchallengeararepair]

Tumblr is Purging Adult Content.

To all my readers,

Even though most of the stories I’ve been posting to this side-blog aren’t in any way “Adult” in content, I will not be posting new content here due to the NSFW Ban Tumblr is implimenting on Dec. 17th.

Fortunately all of my stories will continue to be posted at my page on Fanfiction.net and once I find a new home for blogging, I’ll be moving everything over to there.

If you want to keep following my stories, go to my FF.net page, and watch for new announcements there. Thank you for everyone for following me so far, and for giving positive feedback with your likes and reblogs.

-- Stephen

[writtingchallengeararepair]

30 Day “Rare Pair” Writing Prompts -- Story #9: “Warmth”

~= Alliance Heights, U.A. High School Grounds; Mustafu, Japan . . . . =~

Coming from having used the communal bathing room downstairs, Izuku Midoriya puffed out his cheeks and blew out his breath as he opened his dorm room door. “Whew! That felt better!” After all the workouts with everyone in Gym Gamma, the Hero practice that followed . . . Man! I needed to soak for almost a day! he told himself. Clad in a bathrobe and carrying his small basket of bathing essentials, he closed his door and stepped around the corner to put the basket on a nearby shelf. Glad I didn’t have to wait long tonight. The rest of the boys usually take up all the time and space, when it’s been a rough day.

Stepping over to his clothes dresser, he fished out a pair of long night-wear pants, a dark green T-shirt with the words “Plus ULTRA!” on it, and a clean pair of under shorts. “Tomorrow’s going to be a blessing,” he muttered to himself. “Light class work, followed by a lecture from two of our teachers on Agency standards and practices.” He stripped his robe off, and got into his clean clothes; looking out through his balcony window briefly. It was a typical fall night; not too cool, but not so hot as the summer days were.

Izuku nodded before stepping over to open the side-panel in the floor-to-ceiling pane. “There, should be good to keep the air circulating,” he said, before turning around to regard his bookshelf. “Now something to read, before getting to bed . . . hm, what do I chose?” Eyes drifting like green phantoms over each book, he eventually picked a favorite fiction book of his, pulled it free and turned to flop down on his bed on his back.

Sighing, he thumbed through the pages to get to a starting point, and started to lose himself in the world within the words . . . only to jerk when a tap-tap-tap sound resounded from the window beside his bedside. “Wh-wha--?!” Sitting upright, he stared out of the window, and for a moment he couldn’t see what had made that noise.

“Kero? Izuku?”

Looking up at the upper-most corner, Izuku blinked at the sight of Tsuyu’s face, peering in through the glass. “Tsu!? What are you doing out there!?”

“Well, I’m not playing Go,” she said, tilting her head to look at him from an upright angle. “Can I . . . come in? It’s hard just clinging to the wall out here.”

Shaking himself, Izuku nodded quickly. “Oh! C-come in, please,” he said, getting up to throw the window open completely.

Tsuyu quickly crawled inside, dropping to the floor with a huff before she got back on her feet. “Thank you, Izu-kun,” she said, taking a moment to straighten her clothes out. Izuku watched as she patted down her black t-shirt and lounge pants; the shirt accented with a colorful, cartoon frog face in the center. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you, but . . . with everyone moving about the hallways, I couldn’t think of a better way to get down here and not be seen.”

“Not be seen?” Izuku dropped back to sit on his bed. “Why w-would you want to do that?”

Tsuyu touched the tips of her forefingers together, blushing a bit. “Well, we haven’t exactly told everyone that we’re . . . together, you know. Only Uraraka knows, and, I’m not sure how everyone will react if they did know.”

Izuku nodded, sighing as he stated, “I’m sure not many will mind it . . . but, if you want to keep this just between us, at least for now--?”

“Hmm, yeah. At least for a little while.” Tsuyu murmured, before she brightened and said, “After all, we’re still getting used to this, Kero?”

“Yeah,” Izuku said, moving to brace himself against the bed’s headboard. Unsure what to do next, he started to speak, when Tsuyu surprised him by climbing onto the bed next to him. “Um, Tsu-chan?”

She chuckled softly, before reaching out to press a finger to his lips. “Hssh, it’s cute that you’re embarrassed, but you really don’t need to be, Izu-kun. I just wanted spend some time with you. Kero.”

Feeling his heart race, Izuku got a grip on his sudden nervousness and replied, “Oh! That’s . . . good. I-I mean great!” He shifted over on the bed to give her room, putting his book down briefly.

“What are you reading?” Tsuyu asked.

Picking the book back up, Izuku replied, “It’s one of my favorites. It’s by an author named Tolkien.”

Tsuyu settled down beside him, tipping her head as she peered at the cover. “What’s it about, Kero?”

With a smile, Izuku started telling her about the story within the pages; about a kind creature who wasn’t any sort of hero, but did heroic things while in the company of a troupe of dwarves and a wizard. “. . . and things get really intense when he has to face a dragon!” He glanced over and saw the keen interest in Tsuyu’s eyes. “Would you like to read it, Tsu-chan?”

With a smile, Tsuyu said, “Only if we can read it together?”

Izuku blinked, then asked, “Um, okay . . . well, how would we do that? I only have one copy of the book.”

Tsuyu made a sound that sounded like a froggy chuckle. “Here, let me show you.” She took the book from his hand, opened it then snuggled closer to put their heads closer together. “Hold the one side,” she explained, and when he complied she said, “Now, we can read it together. See?”

Izuku nodded, and tried not to gulp loudly. Fully aware of how close she was, he stammered slightly as he replied, “O-okay . . . w-well, we’re better off going back to the beginning, then.” He thumbed the pages back to the very start, then glancing at Tsuyu he said, “Okay, here’s where it begins . . . .”. Together, the two of them began reading; Tsuyu giving only the barest of nudges to indicate if he was ready to have her turn the page. For several minutes, the two passed the time getting lost in the words and the worlds between the pages. There was only a slight pause when either of them needed to shift their position to keep from having their arms or hands fall asleep.

They were well past the place where the party had foiled the mountain trolls from eating them -- and Tsuyu was rather worried that they wouldn’t survive! -- and were pausing for a break. Tsuyu excused herself just for a few minutes to use his toilet, giving Izuku time to fold up a thicker quilt and pile it up with his pillows.

There! That should make for a better backrest for us! Izuku told himself. He beamed as he got back onto the bed. This is turning out to be more fun that I imagined! At that point, realizing how warm it was getting inside his room, he reached up and removed his T-shirt. Whew! I hope Tsu-chan isn’t too warm, though she seems to be enjoying herself. I mean, we’ve gotten to share something I like with her . . . and well, I mean, that’s what couples are supposed to do, right?

His musing was cut short when Tsuyu returned. She smiled when she realized what he’d done to the bed. “That’s thoughtful of you, Izu-kun! It should be more comfortable for us now,” she said.

“That’s the whole idea, Tsu-chan,” he said. He held up the book, which he’d book marked to save their progress. “Ready to return to where we left off?”

“Kero!” Tsuyu hopped back onto the bed and took her place next to Izuku. As he opened the book, she slipped close and put one hand on his shoulder . . . only to pause as she looked down at him with wide eyes. “Oh . . . oh my!”

Looking at her, Izuku asked, “What? What’s wrong?” He was slightly alarmed when she didn’t answer right away, and he felt his pulse race when she softly ran her hand along his upper arm and shoulder. “Tsu-chan, um . . . what is it?”

“it’s . . . it’s you, Izu-kun. I just noticed it.”

“What? What’s wrong with me?” Izuku stared down at his arm, which didn’t look all that different to him. Still, for some reason, Tsuyu seemed very fascinated with it.

“You’re warm, Kero.” Tsuyu looked up at him and smiled. “I guess I just never noticed before, because we really haven’t been this close to each other.”

Izuku blinked, then tipped his head back as he thought through her words. “Well, I . . . um, I guess I never realized it myself. I do remember my Mom telling me I always did have a bit higher body temperature than what is normal. Though, lately . . . if I’ve been using my Quirk, I do get a lot hotter than I should when I exert myself at practice, too.” He looked back at her and asked, “Why is that important though?”

With a chuckle, Tsuyu explained, “My quirk makes me a lot like a frog. That means I react to temperature much differently than a normal person would. When it gets really cold, I fall asleep, remember?” When he nodded, she went on to say, “Well, the opposite is that warm temperatures affect me in a more positive way.” She blinked her eyes and grinned. “As such, when I’m near a source of heat, it makes me really comfortable and happy!” With that, she slid closer and wrapped Izuku up in a hug.

Izuku felt his heart rate double at feeling of Tsuyu’s embrace, and the embarrassment seemed to send all the blood to his head and neck. Oh no! Th-this isn’t what I expected to happen! He tried to calm himself down, but the sheer amount of nervous energy overwhelmed him, making him stiffen in her arms. Before he could even muster himself to apologize, Tsuyu leaned up to look down at him.

“Izuku, you don’t have to be afraid! All we’re doing is a little cuddling,” she said gently.

“I . . . I mean, I-I-I know, b-but . . . I never really got this close, to anyone . . . before. I mean, even though we did this before, on the dorm roof . . . !” His embarrassed words trailed off into a groan; his hands moving to cover his face to shield himself, only to have them gently pried away, as Tsuyu showed surprising strength against his resistance.

“Izu-kun, do you trust me?” she asked.

“Y-yes,” he replied.

“Do you trust yourself not to do anything untoward how you normally treat me?”

At that, Izuku frowned. “Of course! I’d never do anything wrong to you, Tsu-chan,” he said, turning somewhat cross at the insinuation.

“Then, you’ve got nothing to be embarrassed or worried about. Kero.” Tsuyu gave him a soft kiss on his forehead. “After all, we’re just cuddling. Nothing more, right?”

“R-right.” Izuku said, calming down as her words sunk in. “Right, that’s all we’re doing now.”

Smiling, she tipped her head to the side and gave him a sly look. “Although . . . if you wanted to, well, play around some--?!”

Izuku nearly shot upright with a half-serious/half-grin on his face. “Tsuyu!”

With a chuckle, she put a hand to his chest and pressed him back flat against the makeshift backrest. “Now, now . . . that’s something to talk about later,” she admonished, still smiling as she waited for him to relax -- her hand feeling the still-racing beat of his heart in his chest -- before she reached over and picked up the discarded book. “Right now, I want you to read to me. While I get back to cuddling you, Izu-kun.”

Taking the book, Izuku asked, “You want me to read to you? Aloud?”

“Why not?” Tsuyu winked and settled herself back at his side; wrapping her arms back around his torso. “I think you have a nice voice, Kero. When you’re not all nervous and such.”

Izuku blushed, but he put his free arm around her as he tried to settle back against the pillows. “Okay, you don’t need to convince me, Tsu-chan.” He thumbed the pages of the book in his hand, trying to get back to the last part of the story they had stopped at. Before he began, he looked down at Tsuyu -- her face was nestled into his right shoulder, looking up at him with wide, delight-filled eyes. Impulsively, he leaned his head down and kissed her cheek. “Ready?”

“When you’re ready, Izu-kun,” Tsuyu said, making a froggy-sound of delight as she relished both his warmth and the story to follow.

As he began reading, the evening sky outside had turned from sun-kissed sunset to star-touched night. As they both fell back into the world of elves, wizards, dwarves and a rather nasty dragon, both Tsuyu and Izuku felt comfortable, and happy, as they lay there on his bed . . . . . . . ~= Fin =~ . .

[writtingchallengeararepair]

30 Day “Rare Pair” Writing Prompts -- Story #8: “Soul Mates”

Author’s Note : The translation of the story’s title is “Gentle Rain of Our Hearts”; a fitting title as you will see.

The song lyrics in this story are from a song titled “Be With You” by the artist Tiara. In their original translation, the song is beautiful . . . but I admit I wanted to change the wording a bit to fit the mood I was aiming for. No disrespect was intended towards the original artist; after all this is only fan fiction.

I’d like to give a thanks to Kōhei-san (if they ever read fan stories) for creating a fun universe for us to enjoy, and to all my fellow BnNA fans who support me and other authors who slave over writing these stories. It’s your encouragement that makes this worth while! -- SRS . . . ~= Midoriya Family Apartment, Mustafu, Japan . . . =~

Coming from the kitchen, Inko Midoriya nodded as she crossed to where the tall, lanky form of Toshinori Yagi sat at their dining table. “Here we go! I hope you find this to your liking,” she said, placing the steaming cup in front of him. She didn’t get many visitors, but the arrival of her son, Izuku, along with his mentor and Izuku’s classmate, Tsuyu Asui was a rare treat that she didn’t want to waste.

“Thank you very much, Mrs. Midoriya,” Toshinori replied warmly. “It’s always pleasant to share your company.” He nodded towards the window in the kitchen behind her. “Especially on a day like today. Heh, the spring weather has turned a bit for everyone.”

Inko turned and regarded the overcast skies outside. “Yes, well, we can’t have sunshine all the time, now can we?”. She arranged the other two cups she’d brought with her; setting them down at two other places at the table. She stared at them for a moment, then sighed before turning her eyes to the closed, glass doors of the apartment’s narrow balcony. The pair had excused themselves after they’d enjoyed some time; the teens catching her up on their school affairs and training, while also getting more assurances from Toshinori about their safety on campus.

Now, watching as the two were sitting together -- comfortably close, she observed -- as they watched the light rains outside, her expression turned slightly sad. It was more of an overtone of worry, looking at the two figures showing through the slightly-misted, rain spattered panes.

Following her gaze, Toshinori took a long sip of his tea before asking, “You seem upset, Mrs. Midoriya?”

“No . . . no, not upset, Toshinori-san.” She sighed again, and slipped into the empty chair opposite the former Number-One Hero. “Just, well . . . worried.”.

“Woried?” Toshinori blinked. “For Young Midoriya?”

“Yes, for my son and his . . . girlfriend,” Inko admitted. “I mean, I know how difficult it is when you work as a Hero.” She made a small, helpless gesture towards herself. “After all, I married a Pro-Hero.” She folded her hands on top of the table and shook her head. “I just wonder what Izuku and this Asui girl are thinking?”

“They’re being teenagers, Ma’am,” Toshinori said sagely. “Often at times, when teenagers interact with each other, this sort of thing happens.”

“I know, and I’m not against the idea of Izuku falling in love. I’d be worried if he didn’t find some feelings for someone outside of his desire to become a Hero.” She looked back towards the balcony doors -- where the two silhouettes of her son and his girlfriend were -- and, musing for a moment, she looked back at Toshinori. “Is it really okay for them, to be involved with each other? I mean, they’ve only just gone through the first half of their first year of school. And that year wasn’t exactly a safe experience--?!”

“Mrs. Midoriya,” Toshinori said gently. “Begging your pardon, but . . . all the dangers aside, your son and Miss Asui are doing probably the most normal thing any prospective or Pro-Hero could be doing. After what they faced this past year.” He took a small sip of his tea, before putting the cup down to look at Inko. “They are getting on with their personal lives, along with their work as students and heroes-in-training.”

Inko sighed again, looking away for a moment. “Just what do they expect for themselves, though? I mean, love . . . marriage? A life together, which could end before it begins?”

Toshinori recognized a mother’s concern in her voice. “Inko, they’re hardly going to expect to die in the years to come! If anything else, they’re surely expecting to finish school, first and foremost. Then, if they get with a good Agency, they’ll get jobs as Pro-Heros . . . and most likely move in together, get married--.”

“Toshinori-san!”

“Well, isn’t that what most young couples do?” Toshinori asked.

“Normal couples, yes, but . . . there’s just so much danger in being Pro-Heroes!” She gripped her hands together, looking down at them with an expression of great worry. “What if something happens to one of them -- or both! -- when they go out after a villain!? What if the villains come after them!?”

Toshinori sighed, before he reached out to place a calming hand briefly on both of hers. “Mrs. Midoriya, try to understand. Everyone who has ever taken up the calling of a Pro knows the risks they take. Your son, more than most I’m afraid.” He sat back and looked out at his young pupil. “With his Quirk, he knows far too well that he might become a target for some villain, someday. So, he trains far harder than any other student I’ve seen at U.A. High.” He snorted softly, smirking. “Miss Asui is determined to match him, stride for stride. She and He both aren’t going to be reckless when they graduate and become full-fledged Heros, Ma’am. Take comfort in that these two are going to be part of a new generation that values not just their lives, but those of everyone around them.”

Inko listened, and nodded. “I see. Still, shouldn’t they be more focused on their class work, rather than . . . well--?” She stopped, looking flustered as she tried to find her words. “I just . . . it’s hard to imagine what Izuku and her are thinking!”

With a soft laugh, Toshinori said, “What usually comes natural to two young people . . . when they love one another.” Before Inko could get more flustered, He said, “They are quite possibly very well matched, Ma’am. He’s strength, conviction and generosity personified. She’s a grounding source, and a counter-balance to times when he over thinks things, when he should be decisive and acting on his better judgment.” With a nod, he patted her hand before leaning back in his seat. “They’re both their for each other . . . I’d say the very definition of two souls, working as one. Just let them work it out, Ma’am. Trust me, I think your son and Miss Asui have a better grasp on their relationship that you believe.”

Looking back to where her son and his girlfriend were, Inko blew out her cheeks and asked, “You believe that, Toshinori-san?”

Picking up his tea, Toshinori said, “I do, and for their sakes, it’s the only thing we should expect of them right now. Too soon, children are expected to grow up. They all need time to be young, and enjoy that time around them.” He sipped his drink, and said softly to himself, “Because the future can never be too certain . . . .” . ~= xXx =~ . . On the balcony, Tsuyu and Izuku were snuggled up on a low couch-like bench; wearing casual clothing best suited for wet-weather activities. They both found a light throw blanket back inside, and were using that to ward off the mid-spring chill in the air, which was following the on-and-off drizzles of rain that passed with the overcast clouds. A small transistor radio -- a keepsake Izuku had from his father -- was sitting on a low table near them, adding music that drifted softly around them.

Tsuyu shifted, tucking her legs underneath herself as she leaned further into Izuku’s embrace and sighed. “You’re not getting cold are you?” she asked.

“Me? No,” Izuku replied. “You? It’s not too cold for you to--?”

“No, it’s actually pleasant out here.” Tsuyu shook her head slowly, nuzzling into his shoulder. “You’re also pretty warm to me. It’s like having a big thermal pack to cuddle!”

Izuku laughed softly. “Ah, so that’s why you’re always sneaking down to my room, after everyone’s settled down in the dorms?”

Looking up at him, Tsuyu asked, “You don’t want me to come down any more?”

“Didn’t say that, Tsu-chan.” Izuku smiled at her. “I mean, it’s not like everyone knows the real reason why. Not after that first time we got caught.”

With a snort, Tsuyu said, “I was telling the truth, though! My heater did break down.” She poked him for emphasis. “You were the only person I could trust not to get all chatty about it.”

He said, “I know. And everyone did believe you.” He winced a bit. “You never pull your punches do you?! That poke hurt.”

“That’s the idea. It shows you I’m serious.” Tsuyu rubbed the spot on his chest to soothe the hurt, then left  her hand to linger as she added, “Still . . . does it really matter that everyone knows what we do, when we’re together, Kero?”

Izuku said, “No, kanojo.” He reached down to take one of her hands, entwining their fingers together. “You and I have nothing to hide, nor do we need to explain ourselves.” He placed a light kiss on her forehead. “Tsu-ai, I love you. From the first day we admitted our feelings, my love for you hasn’t changed. If anything, it’s gotten stronger from day to day. You’ve been the steady rock that’s supported me, and it’s made me brave; no matter who comes against us.”

With a gentle sigh, Tsuyu replied, “I’ve never stopped loving you, Kero. You’ve always been there, and it’s your bravery and generous spirit that always amazes me.” She ducked her head to snuggle closer, and she sighed. “It’s made me want to stand beside you, and protect you.”

Izuku smiled fondly, dropping his head to rest his face in her hair. “You’re the support to my strength, Tsu-chan. It’s why we work so well together.”

They were silent for a moment, letting the music from the radio play on while they cuddled each other: . . I wanna be with you, in the future I have seen. Now that you are here with me. I wanna live with you, in the miracle we make together. Arigato, Arigato, I love you!

Perhaps you were looking for something? But you only noticed at the time, that I was crying. When your voice unexpectedly touched my heart, It was like a rainbow after the rain began to fade. . . Tsuyu asked, “Izu-kun . . . do you think we’ll still be like this? When we graduate from U.A., and finally become Pros?”

Izuku said, “Together, you mean? Yes. I hope so . . . because I know, I wouldn’t want to go on without you.” She looked up at him, and he leaned back a bit to regard her. “Tsu-chan, We’ve only been together for . . . a few months? Apart from school and such, you’re all I ever think about.” He grinned at the surprise in her eyes. “Whatever you are thinking, and what you have in mind, when we get back to the dorms after class. You always manage to surprise me a lot. Whether you come to help me with class work, or just to be there.”

“Kero,” Tsuyu said, “It’s you that I can’t stop thinking of. What you think about, or what you plan to do during our training and such. I always want to be there, to see you working with our classmates and the teachers, too.” She smiled, touching a finger to her chin, as she always did. “It always amazes me that, no matter how focused you are in improving yourself, you always find time to help the others. And me, too. I would have never made it this far, without your support, Izu-kun.”

“Tsu-chan,” Izuku murmured, his voice soft yet tight with emotion. Again, without the need for words, the two sat there, embracing one another while the song on the radio played on: . . I wanna be with you, in the future I have seen. Now that you are hear with me. I wanna live with you, in the miracle we make together. Arigato, Arigato, I love you!

I could not see when such a day comes, Meeting you after walking alone for just so long. Like starlight, when small it still burns strong, This love I feel will sure make me crazy.

I wanna be with you, even when I’m sad, You don’t have to say a thing, just stay with me now. I wanna live with you, because you’re by my side, Forever now, Forever now, I love you.

My smile is overflowing, spilling tears, My heart is beating, without stopping how I feel. I wan to know you, I want to love you, ‘Cause we both are together now. . . Eventually, Izuku heaved a deep sigh before reaching up to tip her face up; staring down into her eyes as he said gently, “Tsu-ai . . . you are more than my girlfriend. You should never doubt me, yourself or what we feel so deeply for each other.”

Blinking against the tears that welled up in her eyes, Tsuyu said softly, “You will always be more than my boyfriend, Izu-kun. And no matter what comes, I’ll never stop loving you.”

The two leaned in, touching their lips together in a lover’s kiss: sweet, strong with emotion and long as a lasting sunrise . . . .

That is, until the door to the balcony slid open, to allow Toshinori to stick his head out. “A-hem.” he said to get their attention.

Slightly startled, but not so that they broke their embrace, Izuku and Tsuyu stopped kissing and turned to look up at Toshinori. “Oh, All Might! Um--!”

Tsuyu placed a calming hand on Izuku’s shoulder, before asking, “Is there something wrong, Mr. Yagi?”

With a shake of his blond-haired head, Toshinori said, “No, no . . . nothing so terrible, you two. However, Inko-san has made some very delicious tea for everyone, and she did ask me to come tell you two that your cups are getting cold.” He stepped back a bit, and gave the young couple a sly wink. “That is, if you two would rather sit out in the rain, and stay warm that way?”

Looking at each other, the two chuckled and replied, “No, we’ll be right in, Sir!”

“Good, I’ll tell your mother.” Toshinori grinned. “Don’t take too long, okay?” With that, he stepped away, leaving the door open for them to return inside.

Izuku dropped his head back on the bench’s headrest and groaned. “Why did he have to come just now?!”

Tsuyu gave him a gentle poke. “Well, we didn’t exactly come here to just make out on your Mom’s balcony all day, right?”

“Well, true . . . still,” Izuku sat up and groaned as he stretched his legs out. “He couldn’t have given us another few moments?”

Tsuyu smiled, making a froggy sound as she uncoiled herself and got to her feet. “Come on, Izu-kun. We shouldn’t keep them waiting.” She held out her hand to him, adding, “Besides . . . we’ll have plenty of time later to snuggle, back at the dorms. Kero!”

Standing up, Izuku grinned and took her hand. “Well, when you put it that way--.” He ducked as she made a playful swipe at him with her free hand. “Careful! Don’t hit your boyfriend like that!”

“Ha, I wasn’t ‘hitting’ my boyfriend,” Tsuyu said, pulling him closer to hug him. “I was giving the other half of my soul a reminder to behave.”

Embracing her in return, Izuku shook his head and said, “I’ll behave, if only the better half of my soul will stop stalling, so we can rejoin the adults.”

In a moment of perfect timing, Inko’s voice rolled through the air as she called out from inside: “Izuku! Tsu-chan!? Come in before this tea turns ice cold!”

With a shared laugh, the two turned and slipped into the apartment. Izuku closed the door behind him, leaving the radio to continue to play outside amid the lightly-falling rain: . . I wanna be with you, in the future I have seen. Now that you are here with me. I wanna live with you, in the miracle we make together. Arigato, Arigato, Arigato . . .

Forever and For all Time, I love You . . . . . . ~= Fin =~

[writtingchallengeararepair]

30 Day “Rare Pair” Writing Prompts -- Story #7

Greetings readers!

Due to the overall length of this story -- and the nature of its prompt -- I’ve decided that it needs to be posted at FF.net, so forgive me if I don’t post it here.

You can read the full story “Hanami, Love Among the Blossoms....” HERE!

Please do go read and leave any reviews/comments and give it a favorite (if you are on FF.net). Thanks in advance!

[writtingchallengeararepair]

30 Day “Rare Pair” Writing Prompts -- #6 : “Quirk Swap!”

Note -- Due to not having his actual hero name revealed yet, I decided to run with a reddit suggestion that states his name in some of Kōhei’s notes is Ground Zero, so that is his official hero name in my stories. Also, this story may seem a bit Bakugo-centric, but trust me, Izuku and Tsuyu do feature in it. . . . ~= Ossus Harbor, Near Musutafu, Japan; (Four Years After Graduation) . . . . =~

The villain cackled like a madman, even as Bakugo slammed him into the planks of the pier with brutal force. “Y-you may have . . . captured me, but . . . heh-heh-heh! You’ll never stop all of us!”

“Shutup, you idiot!” Bakugo made quick work of applying hand-encasing shackles to the villain, snarling under his breath. “Stupid, what were you thinking!” He gave the shackle’s locking points a last check, before sitting back on his heels. “Bad enough we have to curb insane jerks like you, especially after the mess you made just now!”

Coming up to where he crouched, the 18+ Only Hero Midnight gave him a terse nod. “Is he contained, Ground Zero?!”

“Yeah,” Bakugo said with a note of finality. “After the beat down I gave him, He’s not going anywhere!”

“Good.” Midnight took a quick stock of the surrounding docks. “We’ve captured nearly every other villain that didn’t bolt or scatter, and the goods they were attempting to steal are all accounted for.” She shot Bakugo an approving look. “You’ve handled yourself well, today. You’ll do your agency proud, if you keep this level of performance up!”

Grinning, Bakugo smacked his fists together. “That’s what I wanted to hear! Thanks!” Rising, he looked out towards the deep, half-bowl shape that made up the larger part of the harbor. “What about the others? I heard Deku and his bunch were engaged--?”

“It . . . it didn’t go well, I’m afraid.” Midnight sighed. “They, ah . . . ran into a problem. Come on. They should need our help. The Police will handle this villain.”

Bakugo rose and followed Midnight, who’d started moving at a quick clip. Jogging to keep up with the older Pro Hero, he asked, “What problem did they get? I thought Deku and his group could handle a few mid-level thugs and low-lifes!?”

“It’s not so much who they ran into,” Midnight explained. “It’s what happened during the fight to bring the villains down.” She nodded towards the open water of the horseshoe-shaped bay beyond the next pier. “You’ll see in a moment.”

Bakugo frowned slightly, even as they picked up the pace to round a tall stack of shipping containers. What happened? Deku’s not the nerdy idiot he once was. Well, most of the time. he told himself. What sort of trouble--!? His internal question came up short as they came around into the open . . . and he caught sight of something he didn’t expect to see!

Several Police officers and Harbor Security were surrounding a few of the villains that had been part of the heist -- holding them off to the side near a blasted-open warehouse door -- while the lead Inspector was speaking to  Ingenium and Creati. On the ground nearby was a figure that appeared to be Mt. Lady, though to Bakugo she appeared different somehow.

But it was the sight behind this group that made him pause, even as he and Midnight approached.

“Ingenium?!” Midnight called out.

Turning, the younger Hero nodded and said crisply, “Ma’am. We’ve managed to capture five more of the thieves attempting the robbery this night. Inspector Sato and his people have been most helpful in detaining them.”

Midnight nodded. “What about Mt. Lady and Froppy? Any word on what’s happened?”

Creati shook her head. “We think it might be some villain’s Quirk,” she said. “At least, it would explain for their current state.”

By then, Bakugo had gotten closer to the edge of the larger slip way, and could see the massive shape in the water. Off to the side, some yards down the length of the slip way, stood Deku; his arms crossed, two fingers pinching his chin as he was clearly muttering to himself. In the water, he could see a giant head that looked like Froppy, but her features were far too . . . normal. Even in their enlarged state. With a scowl, he turned back to look at the body sprawled on the dock -- that of Mt. Lady -- whom he could see now looked far shorter and skinnier than her usual, curvaceous self. As well, he noticed the distorted features on her face; now looking more frog-like than before.

“Swell,” he grunted. “I can guess . . . one of the villains had a Quirk Swapping Quirk, right?”

Ingenium nodded with a soft grunt. “The problem is we lost track of that particular villain during the melee. As far as we know, they either escaped, or . . . .” He turned and looked towards the cluster of captives surrounded by the Police officers. “One of them might well be the culprit!”

At that point, Deku arrived from where he’d been standing, deep in thought. He nodded to Bakugo. “We need to work fast, here,” he said firmly. “We can’t be certain this swapping ability will wear off in time, or remain permanent! Besides, I don’t think Mt. Lady will be able to control herself when she wakes up. Tsu-I mean, Froppy’s already said she’s afraid to move, or else she might do serious damage to the pier.”

Bakugo looked back over at the figure in the water, seeing the gigantic head of Tsuyu turn to look at them. “One question. Why is Frog-face staying in the harbor? Can’t she stand out here with the rest of us? There was plenty of room for Mt. Lady before.”

Deku shot him a sharp, if embarrassed look. “She can’t come out because . . . well, she’s, um--!”

“I think what Deku is trying to say,” Creati said, getting Bakugo’s attention, “is that Mt. Lady’s costume could change size along with her Quirk. Tsu’s couldn’t.”

At that, Midnight caught the gist of what they were saying, just as Bakugo did. “Oh! So her hero costume couldn’t withstand the strain of her size change, right?” She made a soft sound with her lips. “Poor thing. I can see where that might be embarrassing for her!”

Deku nodded. “We’re going to have to find this villain, and work fast.” He turned to look back at Froppy in the water -- seeing her cheeks flush with blush -- before adding, “Any ideas? I’m at a loss, here.”

“Do we have time to interrogate the villains we caught?” Ingenium asked. “The few we’ve got here could possibly be the villain we seek.”

At that point, Bakugo turned and started eying the cluster of captured villains closely. “Hey, Deku,” he said, getting his attention. “Go see to your girlfriend for the moment.”

“What?” Deki asked. “Why?”

“Just GO, okay?!” Bakugo snapped. “You’re not thinking straight, and it’s annoying! Go look after her, while we sort this out.” He softened his tone as he looked over at Deku, adding, “Trust me, we’re not gonna let her stay like that permanently.” He turned back to focus on the villains, not watching as Deku walked away . . . . . ~= xXx =~ . In the water, Tsuyu was trying hard not to draw attention to herself. Even though in her enlarged body she could easily touch the bottom of the harbor’s floor, she kept very still. I’d start making waves or doing something else to damage the surrounding area, she reasoned. Plus . . . I’d rather not let anyone see me like this! She consciously tightened her arms around her torso, hiding her nudity from anyone or anything that might see, but it was the sudden frission of cold that made her blink. Kero! I should ask if someone can get me something to cover up with! I can’t stay in this ocean water long, or I’ll get ill or worse!

She picked up the approaching footsteps on the dock planking, and turned to watch as Izuku approached the spot he’d been standing in before. Rising up clear of the water to allow herself to talk, she asked, “Is everything okay, Deku?”.

He looked up and nodded, though his expression was still fixed in a worried state. “The others are working on seeing if that villain that swapped your Quirk with Mt. Lady’s is still about,” he explained. He tried to smile as he asked, “Are you--? D-do you need anything, Tsu-chan?”

Hearing him use her real name -- instead of her Pro-Hero name -- made her smile. “I could use something to cover up with,” she said, her body shivering again; making the water around her ripple. “I don’t think I can stay in this water for much longer. Kero. It’s getting colder by the moment.”

Deku nodded. “Yeah, you could go into hypothermia, if you stay in for too long!” He glanced around the docks. “I’ll see what I can do! Maybe some tarps, or a sailing canvas might help,” he reasoned. “Anything to . . .well, cover you up if you get out of the water, that is.”

Tsuyu looked at him fondly. That’s my Izu-kun! Always looking out for others. Before she could say anything, there was a shout and the sound of one of Bakugo’s explosive blasts further up the docks. “Kero?!”

“Stay here, Tsu-chan! I’ll see what’s happened,” Deku told her as he started bolt towards the source of the blast.

He only got a few steps when another shout extolled from near the warehouse, and to Tsuyu’s ears it sounded triumphant. “They must’ve found something,” she said.

Moments later, it was Ground Zero and Ingenium dragging one, helpless villain by his feet down the pier that emerged into view. Following close behind was Creati, Midnight and the Police Inspector and a few of his men; who were carrying the unconscious body of Mt. Lady. “Hey, Deku! We found your practical-joker,” Ground Zero said. “I thought it was weird, when out of all the other captured villains, this guy--!” He dropped the goon ungently. “--was grinning like he pulled something off!”

Ingenium nodded. “He’s right. He only had to threaten to use an explosive blast to make him confess,” he said, frowning at Ground Zero. “Not a method I would have preferred--.”

“Hey, it got the job done, right?” Ground Zero growled. “So, let’s get this chump to reverse-swap their Quirks and be done with it.”

The villain in question looked up from the planks and scowled. “Heh, fat chance, Hero!” He would have said more, but he was cut off when Deku suddenly snatched him up and held him high in the air by his throat.

“Deku!? Kero?” Tsuyu gasped. My boyfriend isn’t usually this violent, especially with villains they’d already subdued.

“You’re going to do just what Ground Zero said!” Deku’s voice was firm and hard as iron, and he had one fist cocked back, already glowing with his powerful Quirk. “Or else, I’m going to punch you into the air, and then HE can use you for target practice!!” he said, nodding to Ground Zero.

“Deku, no!” Ingenium snapped.

“Wait a moment, just let this play through,” Ground Zero said, crossing his arms over his chest.

Tsuyu watched with shivers and a nervous look as the tableau played out in front of her. Izu-kun! I don’t want you hurting anyone . . . even if that villain deserves it! she told herself. Please! Don’t do something you’ll regret!

The villain was blubbering, trying to stop Deku from making good on his threat, but from where Tsuyu stood, it was clear that Deku was finished with niceties. It took a “count to three” to make him agree, which got him dumped unceremoniously onto the pier again. Motioning to both Tsuyu and Mt. Lady, Deku said, “Do it, now, before I forget that I’m a Pro-Hero.”

At that point, Creati stepped up and said, “Hold it! Before he does that, Froppy is going to need something to cover up with! Just a moment!” She triggered her Quirk, and began making a large, thermal blanket.

“We’ll need to be ready to pull her out of the water as well,” Ingenium stated. “Deku, we’ll both help her.”

“While Midnight and the rest of us keep watch on him,” Ground Zero growled, taking up a position behind the villain while Ingenium got on his knees at the pier’s edge.

“Here,” Creati finished forming her blanket, tossing it to Deku to hold. “I’ll help Ground Zero.”

Nodding, Deku looked over at Tsuyu. “Ready?”

“As I’ll ever be. Kero.” She lifted one hand clear of the water, holding it out for the villain to make contact with.

Seeing that things were ready, Deku stared at the villain and said, “Do it. Now!”

The next thing that Tsuyu saw was the villain putting his hand on Mt. Lady, before he touched her . . . then the whole world seemed to grow as her body suddenly shrank. Dizzy from the sudden transition, she nearly went under the surface, only to find herself yanked out of the cold waters of the harbor as Ingenium placed her quickly on the dock. There was another moment of disorientation, as a sudden field of orange obscured her vision.

“It’s alright, Froppy!”

“I’ve got you!”

“How’s Mt. Lady? She looks normal--!”

“Give us a minute, Ground Zero! Just keep that idiot in check!”

When she could clear her eyes, Tsuyu gave a massive shudder as her body settled back into her original form. “Keeeroooo?” The transition from the water to dry land wasn’t the problem. It was the cold water still clinging to her body in the open air that was making her shiver now.

“Deku, take Froppy over there,” Midnight was saying. “That van the Police have has interior heating. She’ll be fine after she warms up. We’ll have Creati make her some temporary clothing, after we’ve dealt with the villains!”

Feeling the presence of two, strong arms lifting her, Tsuyu reached up to pull the edge of the blanket away from her face. She looked up, seeing the concern on Deku’s face as he moved swiftly towards the police vehicle parked to the side of the dock entrance. Another shiver raced through her body, and it made Deku look down at her.

“Are you all right? I’m sorry about the cold,” he told her. “We’ll get you warmed up as quick as we can!”

Tsuyu nodded, saying softly, “It’s o-okay, Izu-kun. I’m g-going to be okay.” She leaned her head against his shoulder and heaved a deep sigh. “I’m j-just s-sorry.”

Deku looked at her and frowned a bit. “What are you sorry for?”

“I s-should’ve paid m-more attention in the f-fight,” she admitted. “I really need t-to be more prepared, s-so I don’t end up i-in trouble, like th-this!”. Another shudder wracked her body. “Keroooo, I’m so cold!”

Deku reached the van, where an officer was quick to assess the situation and get the rear door to the van open for them. Nodding a quick thanks, he told her, “Hold on! We’ll get you warmed up fast!”. Climbing up inside, he moved them close to where a vent for the interior heater was placed. “Please, turn up the heat, and thank you!” he told the officer, as he sat down on a long bench on the side of the compartment.

The officer nodded, closing the door before he moved to the driver’s compartment.

Alone, Tsuyu felt Deku shift so she was seated on his lap. “Kero,” she murmured sadly.

Deku proceeded to rub her arms and legs while she was still clad in the blanket; keeping silent for a few moments, before he signed at looked her in the eyes. “Tsu-chan . . . no one can predict how fights or actions against villains can go. We have to be prepared, sure, but we aren’t fortune tellers! We went into this fight tonight, with the best knowledge had.” When she ducked her head, his touch turned gentle as he implored her to look back at him. “Honestly, we have to expect the unexpected, and just deal with it as it comes.” He touched her chin and smiled weakly. “I’m just glad you weren’t hurt!”

Tsuyu felt herself turn warm at the tone of his voice. “I’m glad, too. Kero.”

Deku nodded, stretching up to kiss her forehead. “We got through this, and we’ll do so again. No matter what comes. After all, we’re Heroes, aren’t we?”

She made a happy sound, and ducked her head to nuzzle into his chest. “Heroes . . . and partners, too.”

Deku smiled at her. “Partners, always, Tsu-chan.” . . ~= Fin =~

[writtingchallengeararepair]

30 Day “Rare Pair” Writing Prompts -- #5 : “Firsts”

~= Inside Alliance Heights, U.A.H.S. Campus, Early Afternoon . . . . =~ . . Tsuyu stood next to the counter in the communal kitchen, packing a few bento boxes and some items into a carry bag. With her hair tied up, she wore a spring-time outfit -- a sleeveless, pale-green sun dress, knee-length shorts underneath, and sandals -- along with a wide-brimmed hat; perfect for the weather outside. Humming happily, she turned towards the refrigerator in the corner and opened it to remove a tall thermos bottle.

“Hey, Tsu! Whatcha doin’?”

Looking behind her, Tsuyu blinked at the sight of Mina, Kyoka and Rikido on the other side of the counter. They were all dressed in causal clothes, looking like they’d just returned from a trip to the city-center.

“Oh, Kero!” She nearly dropped the thermos, but recovered it quickly. “You guys surprised me!”

“Sorry about that! Hee!” Mina said. “Guess you were super focused on . . . what? You’re making a lunch?”

Rikido peered over Mina, taking in what Tsuyu had packed. “Wow, looks like a heck of a lunch!” He reached over and poked at the top-most bento box. “That looks more than enough for one person,” he observed.

“Well, it is a nice day outside,” Kyoka said dryly. “Guess it’s a picnic you’re making, huh?”

“Um, well, yeah . . . more or less,” Tsuyu said. Walking back over to the counter, she put the thermos inside and started to arrange the other contents to be better packed in.

“Soooo, who’s going on a picnic with you, Tsu!?” Mina asked, tucking her arms behind herself as she grinned knowingly. “After all, you’re not going to eat all of that yourself, right? Right?” Mina suddenly grunted as she got a poke in the side from Kyoka.

“Knock it off, Mina! If she wanted to tell us, she would, so stop being so rude!” Kyoka said archly.

Rikido nodded, crossing his brawny arms. “Yeah, Mina. Is not any of our business anyway.”

“Well, can you blame me for just being curious?” Mina asked, looking at Kyoka ruefully as she rubbed the sore spot on her side.

“Actually . . . it’s not a secret if you want to know.”

At that, the trio looked at Tsuyu with mild surprise.

Tsuyu gave them a smile. “I mean, I don’t keep secrets if I can help it. Besides, the truth is, I’m going on a date. My very first date. Kero.”

Both Rikido and Kyoka wore expressions of shock, but Mina’s face spread in a wide grin. “A date!?! Tsu, that’s WONDERFUL!” The pink-haired girl practically stood there, bouncing on her toes as she asked in rapid-fire succession, “Who is he!? Where are you two going? How long have you two been a couple!?”

“Mina! Control yourself!” Kyoka hissed. She would have said more, but she stopped when Tsuyu reached across the counter and touched her hand.

“It’s okay, Kyoka-chan.” She smiled, her eyes closing briefly with delight before she stared at the trio and said, “I’m going with Izuku. Kero! He’s my date.”

That got a big reaction from the others. “Midoriya???” Shaking her head in disbelief, Mina asked, “You’re going on a date with Midoriya!?”

“Yup,” Tsuyu said. Blinking, she quickly removed her cell phone from a pocket on her dress, and her eyes grew wide with alarm. “Oh no! I’ve got to get going, or I’m going to be late meeting with Izuku!” She turned and grabbed the carry bag from the counter and whirled around to run out the main doorway. As she did, she waved behind her, saying, “I’ll see you guys later! Kero!”. . . . ~= Nah-Bou Park, Thirty Minutes from U.A.H.S. Main Campus . . . . =~ . . Standing on a sloping, winding pathway that lead deeper into the tree-lined center of the park, Izuku glanced at the digital clock on his cell phone. Sighing, he slipped it back into his pocket and looked up and around.

I know we both agreed to meet here, He told himself. I shouldn’t worry, though it’s not like Tsu to be late. She might have just gotten delayed, after all. She was supposed to get the rest of the items for . . . our picnic . . . our date! He nervously scuffed the toe of his sneaker in the path, before looking down at the bundles he’d placed near his feet. Crouching down, he checked the small carry bag -- which had some storage bowls that were still warm to the touch -- before he shook his head slowly.

“Can’t believe I’m saying this, but . . . it’s been amazing since Tsu and I had our talk, up on the Alliance Heights roof. Has it only been a couple of weeks?” Izuku smiled, plopping down on his backside beside his bundles. I mean, we’ve haven’t exactly been hiding, and yet I don’t think the rest of the class even knows that we’re a couple! He laughed softly. “Listen to me! I’m acting like it’s the most-unlikely thing to have ever happened!” He inhaled and let out a deep breath, trying to calm his nerves. I mean . . . I never was good with girls, back before I joined U.A. High. Since then, I’ve meet Uraraka, and Mina, Momo and all of the girls in our classes. He looked down and put a hand to his head, propping it on his raised knee. Still . . . to think one of them likes me more than a friend.

And to top it all off, it’s Tsu-chan?! He blew out his cheeks with a happy sigh. I just can’t believe it’s real sometimes.

At that moment, Izuku snapped out of his musings as his name was called: “Izuku! I’m sorry, I got held up!”

Looking up, Izuku spied Tsuyu as she entered the park. His face lit up with a smile, as he took in her green and yellow outfit as she hurried towards him. “Hey, Tsu-chan!” Scrambling to his feet, he made sure not to stumble over his own two feet, making it just as she came to a stop in front of him. “It’s okay, I wasn’t worried,” he told her. “Not one bit!”

She made a fist and play-popped him on the shoulder. “Liar. I told you I’d catch up with you after you got back from the Shopping District.” She smiled. “Did you get what you were looking for, Kero?”

Izuku nodded, bending down to scoop up the carry-bag and the rolled up picnic quilt next to it. “Yep! Got there early enough, so I didn’t have to stand in line too long.” He beamed as he sniffed appreciatively at the aroma-laced steam coming from the bag, then looking at her he asked, “Did you get everything else?”

Tsuyu nodded eagerly, patting the carry sack looped over her shoulder. “Everything we’ll need.” She stepped up beside him, taking his arm as she asked, “Are you ready to go?”

Even though he tried to look calm, Izuku felt his heart race at the gentle contact between them, and the smile of joy she had, looking up at him from under the brim of her hat. “Y-yeah, let’s go,” he said. “I think I found the perfect spot, for our d-date.” Clasping her hand in his, he nodded towards the center of the park -- up the pathway before them -- and asked, “Um, do you mind if we just . . . take our time, walking that is?”

Smiling all the more, Tsuyu replied, “Why not? It’s a beautiful day, Kero. We should make the most of it, together.”

Izuku nodded, unable to keep the smile from getting wider. “Then, lets go, Tsu-chan.” Leading the way, he and her headed up the path, going deeper into the park . . . . . . . ~= xXx =~ . . Under some shady trees, the pair had spread out the quilt and unpacked their combined contributions to their picnic lunch. In the midst of this, Izuku couldn’t help but take in the surrounding scenery. They spot was situated near a wide pond -- man-made -- that had been cultivated to be both pleasing to the eye, as well as attractive to several wild birds. They were also far off from the roads that bordered the park, which lent to the tranquility of the very air of their location.

Breathing in deep as he stretched his legs out, Izuku said, “This is great, isn’t it?”

Tsuyu looked up from where she was arranging the stacked bento boxes, and smiled at him. “Yes, and it looks like you’re finally relaxing,” she said. Reaching for the thermos bottle, she uncapped it and produced a pair of cups.

“After all the stuff we had to deal with in class this past week,” Izuku said, blowing out his cheeks. “I’m glad we’re both getting a chance to relax.” He leaned back, bracing his body with both arms as he looked up to the clear, blue sky above, then turned to look at Tsuyu. “Especially since it’s you I can relax with.”

A slight blush filled Tsuyu’s cheeks, but she barely let it affect her as she poured some chilled drinks into the cups. “Here, have some lemonade, before we get started on our lunch.”

Accepting the cup, Izuku smiled and turned to face her and the picnic spread. “Thanks, Tsu-chan.” He sipped a swallow, then placed the cup down to lend a hand. They had plenty of food: cooked rice, steamed vegetables (which Tsuyu always insisted he eat more of!), and other treats, along with the two bowls he brought.

Lifting one of them from the bag, Tsuyu removed the plastic cover and asked, “What’s this, Izu-kun? You did say you were bringing your favorite food, Kero?”

With a nod and a grin, Izuku said, “Oh yeah! It’s katsudon with rice noodles! I’ve always eaten them, since I was a lot younger.” He gratefully accepted the bowl from her, and nodded eagerly for her to take the other one. “Mom used to make it only for special occasions, so It quickly became my favorite thing to eat.”

Tsuyu smiled, and placed the other one next to her, fishing out some spoons and chopsticks. “Well, it does smell good.” Passing a set over to him, she made a small gesture -- as if to pray -- and said, “Thank you for the food!”

“Oh! Y-Yes!” Izuku hastily copied her gesture, nearly dropping his chopsticks in the process. “Let’s eat!” He glanced up at her sheepishly. “Sorry, I was supposed to say that with you.”

Tsuyu patted his arm and said, “It’s all right. After all, we’re on a date, you dork. We shouldn’t have to be too formal.”

Izuku sighed, his lips twisting ruefully before he settled his nerves. “Thanks, Tsu-chan. Shall we eat, then?”

Tsuyu nodded, holding her chopsticks neatly as she picked up the bowl of katsudon. “Let’s dig in!”

They started eating, and from the first bites Izuku could see the surprise in Tsuyu’s expression; the beef broth and noodles clearly delighting her taste buds. He himself was slurping up the noodles with relish, and not missing a bite of the fried pork.

“Mmm!” Tsuyu swallowed her mouthful and said, “I can see why you like this, Kero! So yummy!”

Izuku grinned around a few strands of noodles, before sucking them up. “It’s the best isn’t it?” He paused and looked down at the rest of the food. “What about your favorite, Tsu-chan? What’s your favorite food?”

Tsuyu blinked and gave him a mischievous wink. “Later, when we’re ready for desert. Kero.” . . . ~= xXx =~ . . In due course, they finished off a good portion of the lunch they’d made. The pair weren’t in a dash to finish it, but if Tsuyu could guess right, she was sure Izuku wanted to get to the dessert she had planned for them.

In fact, when he finished the last morsel he had on his plate, Izuku looked pleasantly full. Though he had his eyes fixed on the bag Tsuyu had brought.

“Mmm-hmm! That’s was so good!”

Tsuyu was putting used utensils and napkins into one of the bags Izuku had brought, and was in the process of stacking up the empty bentos, when she looked up and caught his gaze. Following it to the carry bag, she laughed softly. “Haven’t you eaten enough, Izu-kun?”

He gave her a look of mock-hurt. “But, you said there would be desert! Also, you haven’t shared your favorite food yet,” he said.

Tsuyu gave him a wink. “I figured it could wait, until we were finished with lunch.” She finished cleaning up, then shifted over to remove a couple of plastic containers from the bag, along with some spoons. “After all, when it comes to my favorite food, it’s best served as desert or a snack.” She turned and plopped down next to Izuku, before handing him one of the containers and a spoon.

“Ah, I see.” He looked at the container, seeing the reddish, gelatin-like stuff inside, which had small pieces of some fruit suspended inside it. “What is it?”.

Tsuyu said, “It’s Jello. Strawberry flavor.” She was pealing back the cover, and then took her spoon to make a motion towards Izuku. “Go ahead. Try it.”

Izuku nodded, following her example and digging in with his spoon to remove a good dollop of the fruit and gelatin mixture. Pausing to watch Tsuyu take her bite -- and give a sound of immense pleasure as she swallowed it -- he passed his own spoonful to his mouth and slurped it in. Immediately, he tasted the sweet, tangy flavors and was pleasantly surprised at the texture: smooth, but not in a creamy way like pudding, and the bits of cut-up fruit added to the whole flavor barrage.

Tsuyu was taking another bite, watching his face as it went through a myriad of expressions -- from surprise to delight to enjoyment -- before she swallowed and asked, “Do you like it, Izu-kun?”

Izuku smiled and nodded. “Like it?” He took a larger scoop and ate it, chewing it with relish before swallowing. “I love it! I can see why it’s your favorite!”.

Tsuyu laughed, watching him take another spoonful, before she ate some more of her serving. “It’s always been my favorite, since I was little. Although,” she said, her expression turning sly, “there’s a new reason why I like it.”

Trying not to talk with his mouth full, Izuku swallowed and asked, “Oh? What’s that?” He had half turned his head to look at her . . . and got the surprise of his life as Tsuyu had leaned in quickly, and kissed him soundly, fondly and with great enthusiasm. Woah! Izuku shocked mind could barely function, though he tried to recover; bracing on one hand as they kissed each other deeply. Tsu-chan never kissed like this before! he told himself.

As quickly as it happened, Tsuyu broke the kiss, keeping their faces close together while she retracted her tongue from Izuku’s open mouth.

“Tsu-chan! What was--?” Izuku felt her press a finger against his lips, watching as she grinned back at him.

“The reason why I like strawberry Jello so much more? It’s because now that I’m sharing it with my boyfriend, I get to taste it along with you! Kero!” She winked at him and smiled all the more.

At that, Izuku got his wits back, and shook his head while managing not to spoil the mood as he returned her smile. “Tsu-chan! That’s was a sneaky way to get a kiss,” he said.

Feigning innocence, Tsuyu sat back and made a show of eating another spoonful of her Jello. “I know . . . but it was fun! Right, Izu-kun?” She put the spoon in her mouth, smiling around it as she mumbled, “Kero?” . . . ~= Fin =~ .

[writtingchallengeararepair]

30 Day “Rare Pair” Writing Prompts -- #4 : “Late Nights/Early Mornings”

The soft cry coming from the monitor on the nightstand woke Tsuyu, which made her groan and twist in the sheets of the large bed.

“Mmmm . . . Izuuuu-kunnn?” she moaned and stretched towards the other side of the bed. “It’s your . . . turn. The baby--?” When she didn’t touch anything, except the empty space under the covers, she slowly rose up and blinked her eyes. “Izuku?” She turned and reached for the bedside lamp; turning it on to reveal that not only was she all alone in the bed, but according to the clock, it was nearly 2 a,m, in the morning.

“Oooh, where did he go? Kero,” Tsuyu sighed and rolled to the side of their bed, fumbling for her slippers before getting to get to her feet. Mumbling softly to herself, she winced as the cries from the baby monitor grew louder. “Oh dear,” she said. Reaching for a robe, she slipped it on as she fuzzily made her way out of the master bedroom and down the hall.

She made it as far as the side room where the couple had set up a small workspace, as she glanced inside the open doorway . . . and paused as she took in the form of her husband; still dressed in the same clothes he wore the night before, with his curly-haired head resting atop a stack of papers on the low desk. His legs stretched out beneath it, showing his sock-clad feet as he snored softly.

“Oh dear, Kero.” Tsuyu shook her head. Izuku must’ve had more paperwork to deal with that he told me! she said to herself. The Agency’s going to hear from me about this! She stepped inside, and lifted the small blanket they kept stored on a low shelf, using it to cover Izuku as he slept. She gave him a tired smile and a light kiss on his forehead, before she turned and headed back down the hallway.

This time, she made it to the tiny nursery, just off the hallway near the living room. Inside a bassinet, the crying form of their baby seemed to pitch its voice louder -- clearly upset as she waved her tiny legs and arms in the air.

“Oh, now, that’s quite enough,” Tsuyu cooed, bending over to slip her hands under the blanket lining the tiny, baby bed. She deftly, if slowly, swaddled the little one in the blanket, before lifting her up to her chest. “You’re having a bad night, too. Kero?” Glancing around, Tsuyu decided to forgo a bottle or one of the baby’s favorite toys, and stepped out of the nursery and into the living room. “Come on, Ryoku-chan,” she said softly, stepping around the low couch. “We’ll take in some air together . . . see if that will calm you down.”

The baby cried, but not as loudly as before; realizing that she was now being held by her mother.

Tsuyu reached the closed, glass door that lead out onto their apartment’s small balcony, and shifted the baby to one arm so she could slide the door open. The air outside was still early-spring warm, but cool due to the sun being down. She shivered briefly, before stepping outside and moving to where they’d left a couple of chairs to enjoy the outside view. “Here we go,” Tsuyu said, lowering them down to sit. Folding her legs to make herself comfortable, she settled Ryoku and smiled down at her. “Now, now . . . there’s no need to cry now. Kero.” Rocking her body slowly back and forth, she made soft, froggy sounds in her throat; almost singing to her baby as a gentle breeze drifted across the balcony.

Slowly, Ryoku settled down and stopped crying; making soft sounds as she looked up at Tsuyu.

Reaching up, Tsuyu gently brushed her hand over Ryoku’s forehead, her fingers combing back the curly fringe of green and black hair there. She had her wide eyes, but they were a deeper green -- like Izuku -- and were accented by the smattering of freckles on her cheeks. Barley a few months old, she’d yet to show any personality traits, yet Tsuyu wasn’t worried. She’s going to be something special, that’s for certain.

At that point, Ryoku’s eyes widened, and her tiny face broke into a smile as she cooed happily.

“Well, what’s made you happy all of a sudden?” Tsuyu asked fondly. The answer she go came by way of a light blanket being settled over her shoulders; it’s warmth making her turn and stare behind her in slight surprise.

“I think she sees someone she loves!” Izuku said, dropping to his knees beside her. He had a sleep expression, but he had a smile on his lips as he leaned over to give both mother and child a kiss on the cheek. “Hey, Ryoku-chan,” he said with great fondness. “Can’t sleep, huh?”

Ryoku wriggled in her mother’s arms, burbling and cooing as she looked up at Izuku.

“We all were trying to sleep,” Tsuyu said, giving her husband a stern-if-fond look. “But you weren’t in bed, Kero.”

Izuku nodded, then yawned. “Sorry . . . I was going over more of the notes from the last big meeting with our Agency. As well as some notes Totoroki sent over from the big meeting we had last week.”

“That was from the big Heroes conference, wasn’t it? The one nearly all of our former classmates put together?” Tsuyu asked.

“It was all Momo and Tenya’s idea,” Izuku said nodding. “They figured since villains have been organizing against us, we need to being organizing to better protect ourselves and the people we protect.” He ruefully looked down and added, “Even so, I wasn’t supposed to be up so late, Tsu-chan.”

Tsuyu reached up to pat his cheek. “Don’t worry, Izu-kun. At least you didn’t fall asleep in the kitchen. Kero.” She added with a sigh, “Considering you have to rise early this morning, You really mustn’t go without some sleep, love. It doesn’t help your health, and it makes you cranky.”

Izuku nodded, slipping closer to wrap his arm around her. “I’ll get some sleep, I promise.” He smiled at Ryoku -- who appeared to be yawning herself -- and said, “Perhaps we all should get some sleep, hm?”

Tsuyu shook her head, and said, “In a bit . . . want to make sure Ryoku-chan is settled before we go back in.” She looked out at the view of the city around them; the muted lights from below, mixing with the faint field of stars overhead. “It’s so peaceful this morning, isn’t it? Kero?”

Embracing her, Izuku followed her gaze and said softly, “Yeah, it is.” For a short time, the young parents and their child stayed still on the balcony; feeling the spring breeze in the early morning darkness, and relishing the closeness of being together.

Then, with a content breath, Tsuyu nudged Izuku softly. “Looks like Ryoku-chan’s finally asleep,” she whispered.

Izuku nodded wordlessly, rising to his feet first to help her stand up without disturbing the baby. He opened the door and let her go in first, but as soon as he was inside, he moved around her quickly and ducked into the nursery. He emerged with the bassinet and started to move back down the hallway.

“Izuku! What are you doing?” Tsuyu said, hissing her words to keep Ryoku from waking. She followed his path, ending up back at the master bedroom . . . where she saw he had quickly changed into a pair of sleeping pants, and was piling up their sleeping pillows, after having put the baby’s bed near theirs. “Oh!”

Izuku finished with the pillows, and turned and held out his hands. “Come on, love. Get into bed, while I put Ryoku-chan in hers.”

Tsuyu gathered what he had in mind, and gave the baby to him before she kicked off her slippers and removed her robe. Yawning, she said quietly, “You could have told me what you were thinking, Kero.”

Making sure the baby was positioned right, and her blanket was safely folded down by her feet, Izuku looked at his wife and said, “What, and stop me from spoiling the both of you?”

“Oh, Kero!” Tsuyu climbed back into bed, waiting for Izuku to replace the covers and the quilt as he settled back against the pile of pillows. When he settled down, he held out one arm and she quickly snuggled in under the covers. wrapping her arms around him. “Mmm! Better,” she told him.

Snuggling her close, Izuku cast one more glance at their sleeping daughter, before he bent his head down to nuzzle into Tsuyu’s hair. “Very much . . . hmmm! Sleep well, Tsu-chan,” he murmured with a last, jaw-popping yawn.

Her eyes already closed, Tsuyu leaned up to kiss him, before laying back down and saying, “Love you, Izu-kun . . . hmmmaaah-ah, Kero.”. . . . ~= Fin =~

[writtingchallengeararepair]

30 Day “Rare Pair” Writing Prompts -- #3 : “Pro Hero Duo”

Ten Years After Graduation . . . .

~= Outside the Tythonia Financial Group Building, Musutafu, Japan . . . . =~ . . “I don’t care what you want! Either you pull your people back, or I’m going to shoot ONE hostage for every five minutes you stay in our way!”

Chief Inspector Sora snarled as the phone line was cut off. He looked to the Sergeant manning the comm-panel aboard the unit’s electronics van, and his expression of displeasure deepened when the man shook his head. “Sorry, Keibu! I can’t restore the line. They must have physically cut it!”

Inspector Sora nodded curtly, before turning to speak to another junior Police Officer. “Tell every man out there I want NO action taken, unless I give the order to do so!” As the man acknowledged the order and moved to relay it, the tall senior officer turned back to the technician. “Do whatever you can to reestablish contact. We cannot allow them to harm a single hostage!” Stepping down and out of the van, Inspector Sora marched to where a shielded barricade had been established in front of the bank entrance. Crouching down, he asked the senior Police Officer kneeling there, “Any changes?”

“Nothing, Keibu,” the man replied. “The thieves are staying well away from the windows and main entrance. We last spied one of them shooting out any surveillance cameras inside the main lobby.” With a grimace, he explained, “They must know we’d be able to tap them to get a view inside!”

Inspector Sora grunted. “Stay focused. I’m going to speak with the Captain. We’re running out of options, and time!” Rising, he headed back to the comm-van, only to be intercepted by the Police Officer he’d sent out earlier.

“Keibu! Sir, I’ve relayed your orders to all platoons,” he said. “Also, I’ve re-checked with the comm-tech. Still no good on reestablishing the land-line to the bank. We also cannot raise the thieves using any wireless tech!”

“They must have switched off their phones!” Sora looked back at the bank. “They clearly aren’t using wireless communications like radio-wave transmitters or such . . . Damn it! We’re going to lose a hostage if we don’t act.”

“Excuse me, Inspector?”

Both Inspector Sora and his Officer turned in alarm -- hands reaching for their weapons -- only to freeze in shock.

“Sorry to surprise you, but we only just heard of this incident as we were passing through. Do you require any help?”

Inspector Sora put a calming hand on the shoulder of his Officer, before nodding. “Yes, indeed . . . I mean, any aid you are willing to give would be most appreciated.”

“Then, give us a run-down. What do you know about things inside the bank?”

At that, Inspector Sora nodded to the comm-van. “Come with me, we may not have much time, but I can tell you all I know . . . .” . . . ~= Inside the Tythonia Financial Group Building, Minutes Later . . . . =~ . . . “Hoi, we’re almost to the deadline, Boss! What are we gonna do?”

Standing well clear of the open lobby space, Yakunan dropped the heavy-gauge shotgun onto his shoulders, grinding his teeth as he turned back to stare at his three henchmen. The seven bank employees that were tied up and piled up underneath the shielded array of the main counter. Damn it! We need to get out of here! He looked at where they had several large canvas duffel bags stacked up -- all filled with stolen money and other goods they had liberated from the vault. Damn the cops! If they’d listen and just pull back--!

“Boss,” one of the thugs said, moving close to whisper harshly. “Just checked . . . the riot unit’s pulling back!”

Yakunan blinked. “What? Are you sure?!” he asked, his voice husky with tension.

“Side window, in that cubicle office,” the thug said, nodding to a room off to their right.

Moving cautiously, Yakunan slipped around the doorway to the thin window on the wall. He shifted the blinds a bit, peering out. Shocked at the sight of the R.P.U. pulling back and breaking down their barricade, he grunted and turned to wave at the thug. “It’s legit! They’re pulling back.”

“So, what do we do now, Boss?”

Coming out of the office, Yakunan said, “Get on the radio, call up the rest of the boys! We’re going out the back entrance!” He grunted and motioned to the others. “Grab the money and loot, and move it, now!”

“What about them?” another thug said, pointing his weapon at the hostages; the women where whimpering with fear, while the men were trying to look stoic and brave.

Unlimbering his shotgun, Yakunan twisted his head to loosen it up before saying, “Pick two. They’ll come with us for insurance. Shoot the rest when we’re free to move out.”

At that, the closest thug made a move to grab one of the women out of the clustered hostages. As he got a grip on a young woman, he suddenly jerked upright with a choked gasp and suddenly flew through the air with a yelp. Crashing into a glass partition, he tumbled to a stop, unconscious and limp.

The remaining thugs and Yakunan whirled around, looking to see what had attacked them . . . but there was nothing there! “What the hell--?”

There was another shriek of surprise, and another thug crashed through a closed office door behind them.

Another thug shouted, “What is going on--!?”

“Cover! It’s a Hero!” Yakunan snapped. He spun towards the open lobby, ratcheting his shotgun before leveling it over a low table.

The rest of his men followed suit, weapons loaded and cocked as they found whatever place to hide behind. One ducked down near the hostages, swiveling his pistol around to aim it, only to have it go flying out of his grip before he himself found his body launched the length of the counter space.

“Which Hero is it, ya think?”

“Does it really matter?!”

“They’re either shielded or stealthed,” Yakunan growled. “Quick! Shoot everywhere!”

With that, the remaining thieves began shooting out into the open lobby space. Gunfire and a hail of bullets and shells shattering the relative silence and several pieces of furniture in the process.

Watching, Yakunan was in the process of reloading his weapon, when a sharp cry of pain cut through the gunshots, and a figure materialized out of thin air to slam into the floor. “Stop shooting!” he barked, as he stood up and aimed his shotgun at the fallen figure. “We’ve got them now!” He started to stalk towards them, his feet making crunching sounds on shattered glass and shredded plastic.

From where they had fallen, the Hero groaned, but quickly got her feet underneath herself before looking up to see the approaching masked robber.

“You blasted . . . you thought you could take us out, alone?” Yakunan said darkly. “Now, you’re going to die with the hostages we won’t be sparing!”

One of the other thugs had come up to flank his leader, and was in the process of reloading his weapon when he got a good look at the Hero on the floor. “Oh . . . cripes! Boss?! We’ve got to get out of here!”

“We will,” Yakunan said. “After we get our loot and repay this stinkin’ Hero for--!?” His words were cut off when he felt his henchman grab him by the arm roughly.

“Boss, you don’t understand! We have to go! Don’t you see who that is?!?”

Yakunan glared at the masked stooge with impatience and a touch of alarm, before he turned back to see the Hero get into a defensive stance; crouching on both feet and one hand, while the other gripped her arm to stop the gash that was bleeding there.

“You’d better listen to the man, Criminal,” the Hero in black and green said. “Surrender, or you’re going to come off a lot worse than you have been. Kero.”

Yakunan blinked, but it was his goon that said the words, “That’s the Rainy Hero Froppy?! IF she’s here, that means--!!!”

The next moment was a sudden explosion of movement, sound, pressure and pain; something crashed through the side wall, shattering brick, stone and metal as it rocketed across the lobby and into both men. The one thug was thrown far wide, coming to a crashing stop against the marble counter, Yakunan was carried along until he slammed painfully against the far wall. The impact made him lose his weapon, his breath, and his senses for a brief span of time.

When he could see again, there was a light-colored fist gripping the front of his jacket, and a pair of green, steely eyes peering back at him.

“All of you, surrender! I have your Boss!” The strident, confident voice carried across the lobby, and to Yakunan’s dismay, there was the sound of clattering weapons hitting the bank floor. At that, the figure lifted him higher against the wall, glaring at him as he braced his armored feet and said, “You planned to get away with this, but you’ll not harm any innocent lives, not while I am here!”

Yakunan felt his spirit sink like a lead weight, as he recognized the newcomer’s costume. Oh crud! Him! Wincing as he felt the shock of his impact against the wall rick through him, he sagged in the grip of Japan’s Number-One Hero. “Why did . . . did it have to . . . be you!?”

With a smile, Deku said simply, “Because, while I am here, there’s nowhere that villains will be safe from Justice!”

Looking behind him, Yakunana could only watch helplessly as Froppy tapped on a two-way radio badge on her outfit. “Inspector, the hostages are secured. Send in your men!” . . . ~= Outside the Building, Minutes Later . . . . =~ . . As the First Responder technician finished wrapping the wound on her arm, Tsuyu gathered the untucked sleeve of her costume and pulled it to her as the woman folded her arm into a light sling. Well aware of the keen scrutiny of Izuku -- who was standing nearby, dividing his attention between her and the Inspector who was finishing his debriefing with him -- she nodded as the tech gave her some instructions on caring for her injury. Rising from where she was seated on the rear step-up on the ambulance, she nodded and thanked the tech, before moving off towards Izuku as he acknowledged the Inspector’s salute before the Officer moved away.

“Well, is everything okay, Kero?” Tsuyu asked.

Izuku eyes followed the Inspector as he rejoined his men, before he sighed and said, “Fortunately none of the hostages were hurt. Four of the gang will require medical attention, but their leader will only need minor first-aid before they take him to prison.” He turned and looked at her, frowning slightly. “You took a big risk, Tsu-chan.”

“It was the only logical thing to do, and you know it. Kero,” Tsuyu said archly. “My Camouflage gave me the means to get inside the bank unseen, help the hostages if needed, and allowed me to tell you where to position yourself for your entrance.”

Izuku nodded, but his eyes lingered on her arm. “I just don’t like you getting hurt.” He pointed his thumb at his chest. “I’m the one who can’t be injured, remember?”

“Yes, dear,” Tsuyu said dryly, even as she looked at him fondly. “A fact you never let anyone ever forget.” She shook her head at his expression, then reached up to grip his arm. “Izu-kun, we run risks no matter what we do. It’s part of the job, remember?” She squeezed his arm to soothe his obvious distress, adding, “Besides . . . if you’re that worried, I can always let you kiss it to make me feel better, later. Kero?”.

Izuku gave her a half smile, before shaking his head with disbelief, only to smile more genuinely as he placed one arm around her waist to pull her close. “Promises, promises,” he muttered.

“Since when have you know me to break a promise?” Tsuyu asked, clearly teasing him. She smiled, then sighed as she looked around. “They’re wrapping things up here, Kero. The money’s safe, as are the hostages. I’d say our work here is done.”

“So it is.” Izuku hugged her tighter, before he nodded in the direction of the far side of the city block. “We should get back. We’re missing dinner, and Mom will clearly have seen this whole incident on the news.”

“That’s true,” Tsuyu said. “She’ll most likely raise a fuss over me getting hurt.” She nudged him with her hip, saying, “As if I don’t already have one Midoriya worried for me. Kero.”.

Izuku chuckled, before letting go of her to step behind her. “One is certainly enough, love. Especially since it’s me.” With that, he scooped her up into his arms, waiting until she got a grip with her good arm before asking, “Ready to go?”.

Tsuyu smiled and kissed his cheek. “One-way on the Deku Express! Kero!”

With that, Izuku grinned and let the power of his Quirk flow thorough his body. Tensing his legs, he sprang off the ground in a burst of One-for-All and soared off into the late afternoon sky . . . . . . . ~= Fin =~

[writtingchallengeararepair]

30 Day “Rare Pair” Writing Prompts -- #2 : “Confessions”

This had never happened before.

Tsuyu paused outside of the door, over which a sign hung with the word’s “Principal’s Office” written in dark letters. For the most part, it wasn’t often that students got called in to speak with Principal Nezu. It was also rare for an upstanding student like Tsuyu to have to see him, either.

I haven’t missed any assignments, she told herself hugging herself over her school blazer. I also haven’t been late to classes, or done anything wrong . . . what could Mr. Nezu want to see me about? Giving herself a mental shake, she reached for the  door handle. Still, I shouldn’t keep the Principal waiting. She rapped on the door three times, before turning the handle to open it and allow her to step inside.

“Ah, Miss Asui! It is so very kind of you to join us.”

Closing the door, Tsuyu took stock of who was in the office; Nezu, seated at his desk, along with Mr. Toshinori Yagi -- the former All Might -- who was standing to the Principal’s left side. What surprised her was the presence of Izuku, who was dressed in his school blazer, shirt and slacks; an expression of deep concern on his face.

“Please,” Principal Nezu said, motioning towards the space in front of his desk. “Come join us, Miss Asui.”.

Tsuyu crossed to where he indicated and looked briefly at Mr. Yagi and Izuku. “Um, excuse me, Mr. Principal, but why was I called to come here?” she asked.

With a soft laugh, Principal Nezu said, “Oh, do not worry! You aren’t in any sort of trouble, Miss Asui. In fact, I’ve been told by several of the instructors that you are a model student! Very much the sort that we all relish having here at U.A. High.”

Tsuyu nodded slowly. “Then, if I’m not in trouble, Sir, why am I here? As well as Izuku-san? I’m afraid I am a bit confused. Kero.”

“Well, I can understand that,” Principal Nezu replied. “But, trust me, there is a very good reason for your being here. As well as young Mister Midoriya.” He paused and put his paws on his desk. “However, it’s best I let Mr. Yagi here begin the explanations.” He looked at Toshiniori and nodded. “Please. Do begin.”

Clearing his throat, Toshinori gave Tsuyu a half smile before saying, “Miss Asui, you’ve been called here today, on the reason it’s been made clear that you and Young Midoriya have, well, become much closer than merely classmates. Or even good friends.”

Tsuyu blinked, glancing at Izuku -- who’s expression of worry deepened -- before facing the former Number-One Hero squarely. “Yes, Izuku and I just recently became boyfriend and girlfriend, Sir.” Her faced became pinched with worry. “Is there, um . . . is there a problem with that?”

Toshinori shook his head. “No! Most certainly not, Miss,” he said quickly. Rubbing the back of his head, he went on to say, “At least, the problem isn’t the two of you, exactly.” When she tipped her head to the side in confusion, Toshinori sighed. “It’s best I just get on with what must be explained here.” He looked to Principal Nezu -- who merely nodded -- then to Izuku -- who also made a nod of encouragement -- before he asked, “You are familiar with my former Quirk, Miss Asui?”

She nodded. “I don’t think there’s anyone who doesn’t know about the One for All Quirk, Sir.”

Toshinori shook his head sagely. “Indeed, but there’s a story behind this Quirk; how it came to be, and the special reason of what it has become. In part, it’s the main reason why Young Midoriya is here.”

Tsuyu turned to look at Izuku with wide eyes. “I . . . I don’t understand. Kero?”

At that, Izuku drew in a deep breath, before he looked into Tsuyu’s eyes. “Tsu-chan, the real reason why All Might brings this up is . . . well, the truth is my Quirk? It actually IS One for All.”

Tsuyu gasped softly, eyeing the young man up and down, before asking, “You? Y-you have All Might’s Quirk?” She cupped both hands over her mouth, making an alarmed sound before she got a grip on herself. “But, if . . . if you have All Might’s Quirk--?”

“There’s a story behind it, Tsu-chan,” Izuku said gently, stepping closer to take hold of her hands in a reassuring manner. “Considering how close we’ve become, I talked it over with Mr. Yagi and Principal Nezu. It’s only fair that you hear the whole story, because . . . well--.”

“Because someday, Izuku will rise to take my place as the greatest of all Heroes,” Toshinori said grimly. “As such, he’ll become the target of many a villain, and, knowing how much you will want to protect him, and fight alongside him, it is best you understand how he became the inheritor of my power.”

Tsuyu nodded, then she turned her hands over to grip Izuku’s hands tightly. “Okay . . . I’ll listen.”

“Thank you,” Toshinori said gratefully. “Please, join me you two?” He indicated a couch and a pair of seats off to the side. As the two students took their seats, He also sat down and sighed, watching as Principal Nezu got up from his desk to join them. “Now, I guess the best place to start is where One for All came from . . . .” . . ~= xXx =~ . . In due course, as Toshinori and Izuku -- who took up the story when necessary -- finished telling Tsuyu the whole story of their inherited Quirk, Tsuyu was staring with concern and awe as Izuku finished his part: “. . . and, well, that’s where I am now. I’ve been working hard to make this Quirk my own. It hasn’t been easy, but I’m getting better.”

Toshinori nodded. “Young Midoriya will eventually some day have full control of One for All. When he does, he may very well become as great a hero as I was, as All Might. Perhaps even better.” He looked at Tsuyu and added somberly, “The main point is that, with you becoming involved with Young Midoriya as you are, it would be both wrong to keep it from you and dangerous as well.”

At that point, Principal Nezu said, “Yes, if a villain was ever to learn of just how Young Midoriya acquired his Quirk, it might make life hazardous; not just for him, but for anyone associated with him.” He sighed and added, “Please understand, Miss Asui, we’re not telling you this to discourage your relationship with Young Midoriya.”

“No, no, not at all!” Toshinori agreed. “It’s just that we all felt you needed to know, so that you can be better informed, to both help Young Midoriya and anyone else, when it comes to protecting himself and his Quirk.”

Tsuyu nodded. Through it all, she never strayed too far from Izuku’s side, nor did she let go of his hands. “I see,” she said at length. “It’s good that you aren’t discouraging Izu-kun and me, because I’d refuse.” She looked at her boyfriend and gave him a firm, fond smile. “I don’t ever want to leave you, Kero!”

That made Izuku smile with relief. “I’m glad to hear that, Tsu-chan.” He was surprised when she made a small gesture to indicate the two adults in the room.

“Although, are they’re many others who know about this, too?” she asked, looking to Principal Nezu and Toshninori.

“Only myself,” Principal Nezu said, “and a few select members of the faculty staff.”

“Young Bakugo knows as well,” Toshinori added, grimacing. “It was necessary, considering his attitude towards Young Midoriya as of late.”

Tsuyu appeared to process this, then nodded. “I see. Kero.”

“Can we count on you to help us keep this secret, Miss Asui?” Principal Nezu asked.

“Yes, I will . . . although, I want something in return,” she said firmly.

That took the two adults and Izuku aback for a moment. “What could you want?” Izuku asked, as he suddenly was under the quick and hard scrutiny of his girlfriend.

“A promise.” Tsuyu said. “I know you want to be a great Hero. It’s your dream, and I wouldn’t want you to give that up, no matter how I’d feel. Still, I want you to promise me . . . Promise me that you will not take any extreme risks, even if you fully control your Quirk?” She gripped his hand with high emotion vibrating through her frame, even while she reached up with her other hand to gently cup his cheek. “I only just got to know you, and, learning about all of this? I don’t want to see you hurt, or worse! Kero.”

Izuku smiled, and touched her hand in return. “I promise, Tsu-chan. I’m not going anywhere . . . not yet, anyway. We’ve got too much ahead of us, but don’t worry. We’ll get through this, together. I’m just sorry I didn’t get to tell you this sooner.”

She pressed her fingers to his lips, and said, “Don’t apologize. Kero. All that matters is there’s no secrets between us now. Hm?”

Both Toshinori and Principal Nezu looked at each other; a silent look of understanding passing between them. Together, they got up and quietly made their way to the door of the office, letting the young couple continue to talk to each other . . . . . . . ~= Fin =~

[writtingchallengeararepair]

30 Day “Rare Pair” Writing Prompts -- #1 : “Kissing”

Uraraka led the way for the rest of the girls, as they followed close in behind. It was a sight to see, considering they were all crammed together like a cluster of ducklings waddling along. All of them were in casual dress -- wearing a mix of U.A. uniform items and their usual after-class clothes.

The group had come around the far side of the back of the Dormitory where a space had been cleared to allow the students to have a place to study, or relax without having to stay indoors (when the weather was good). A few low shrubs bordered parts of the edge, and a couple of stone benches were placed to take full advantage of the sunlight during the early parts of the morning, while allowing for maximum use of the shade in the late afternoon.

Uraraka made a halting motion with one hand, and the girls stumbled to a stop. “Hsssh!” she cautioned, looking back at the group sternly. Waving her hand, she gestured for them to be quiet, while she inched her way along the corner before ducking down below the top of the closest hedge. The rest of the girls slowly peeked out from cover, watching as she peered over the hedge towards the one corner of the clearing.

The subject of their scrutiny were two of their classmates -- Izuku Midoriya and Tsuyu Asui -- who were seated next to one another, on one of the benches. They were still dressed in their red-white-and-blue activity uniforms, but the thing that made this whole clandestine voyeurism necessary, was just how both Izuku and Tsuyu were sitting together. She was leaning against Izuku’s taller form, holding onto his arm as he draped it across his lap. For his part, Izuku had his other arm wrapped around her waist, and the two held one hand of the other, with their fingers interlaced together.

Looking back at the girls, Uraraka saw the looks of anticipation and surprise on their faces. She again motioned them to be silent, even as she tried to keep her own squeak of enthusiasm in check.

Across the way, even though they both appeared to be blissfully unaware of their ‘audience’, both Izuku and Tsuyu were both brimming with mirth and just a little bit of playfulness. “Do you think they’re all there, Izu-kun?” Tsuyu whispered under her breath.

Looking from under a barely-shielded eyelid, Izuku murmured, “All of the girls at least. Uchaco-san is leading them.” He made a motion -- as if to nuzzle his face into Tsuyu’s hair -- but it was a nod towards the hedge. “She’s over there.”

With a sigh that was more exasperation than contentment, Tsuyu replied, “You would think they never saw two people being happy together, Kero?”

“Can you blame them, Tsu-chan?” Izuku chuckled softly.

“No, but It’s like we’re being watched like two animals in a cage at the zoo,” Tsuyu said. “It’s embarrassing.”

At that, Izuku sighed, then grinned as he shifted a bit. “Well . . . we could give them something to watch, that is . . .?”

With a blink, Tsuyu lifted her head to look at him. “Izu-kun?! You’re sounding mischievous!”

“Only if you’d like to play along, Tsu-chan,” he muttered, still grinning.

At that, Tsuyu made a froggy chuckle deep in her throat. “You hardly act like that. Ever!” She joined him in his private grin-fest. “I think I might like it.”

“Soooo, are you with me?”

Tsuyu nodded once. “What did you have in mind? Kero.”

Straining to hear, Uraraka raised up a bit more from her hiding spot, and the rest of the girls mirrored her as they continue to watch the young couple. They appeared to be whispering something to each other, and then . . . with a sudden move, Izuku swept Tsuyu up into his arms, swung her back and dipped her body back over the bench. At that, all of the girls forgot to be silent, as a massive GASP! of surprise exploded into the air. From the way it looked, Izuku and Tsuyu were engaging in a flurry of romantic kisses.

In truth, the young couple were both trying to stifle their own giggles and snorts, while they continued to mimic a heady lip lock.

“Think they’re seen enough, Tsu-chan?” Izuku muttered, all while keeping down the laughter bubbling up inside him.

“Oh, they’re seeing enough, all right!” Tsuyu shook her head, smiling up at her boyfriend. She chuckled, then stopped as she caught the sound of a sudden flurry of footsteps, retreating back behind the wall. “Izu-kun, let me up, Kero!”

Together, they righted themselves and stood up, looking to where there were obvious signs of multiple bodies having made a quick retreat from behind the hedge and corner. Faint sounds of glee and surprise echoed from around the corner of the building.

“Well, I guess they saw enough,” Izuku said with a laugh.

“More than enough, I’d say.” Tsuyu put a finger to her chin and asked, “Wonder what they’ll be saying about us for the next few days?”

Izuku hugged her close and said, “Well, they can say what they want, for all I care.” He looked down at Tsuyu and added, “I’m just happy that we’re together, no matter what.”

“This is true.” Tsuyu returned his hug, but she peered up at him with a serious expression. “Still I am wondering something.”

Izuku frowned a bit. “What’s that?”

“Even though we hammed it up for their benefit . . . I do wonder if you are going to kiss me, for real? Kero?”

With a sigh, Izuku’s smile returned and he shifted to face her, tipping her head up with a gentle touch. “Do you even need to ask that, Tsu-chan?” Before she could reply, he dipped his head and gently kissed her.

With a froggy sound of delight, Tsuyu wrapped her arms around his shoulders and responded to the kiss with happy, loving enthusiasm. After a few moments, she pulled back and sighed, saying, “I’m glad that was just for the two of us. Kero.”

Izuku smiled. “For ourselves only, Tsu-chan. I only reserve my best kisses for you.”

With a squeak of happy glee, Tsuyu replied, “You are such a romantic dork, Izu-kun . . . and you’re my dork!”