Disclaimer: I do not own Boku no Hero Academia.

Yume swirled the champagne flute in her hand slowly, a polite smile on her lips as she greeted fellow heroes and civilians within the party. At a quick glance, she noted her little sister and other U.A. students had not arrived yet but did not let those thoughts linger. Ayame would be fine; she had a small habit of being late so this was usual. What Yume was curious, however, was if a certain half-and-half boy would take notice of her little sister's dolled up features.

A playful smile emerged at that thought as she glanced at the entrance again. Those two were just a little dense. It may take a little bit of Yume's nudging to push them a little closer.

"LullaCry, is it?"

Violet eyes blinked in response, turning towards the direction of the voice and—her hand stiffened around the glass flute. Yume quickly composed herself yet her heart skipped a beat at the person who had called out to her; striking blue eyes and a tight bodysuit of red, white, and blue. The All Might was acknowledging her. Ayame was not the only fan girl in the Sasaki household.

"All Might!" Yume barely controlled her volume, smiling at the Number One Hero with surprise yet happiness. Throughout her years of working as a hero, she had not once met the most famed one yet. "Yes—that's me. I'm flattered that you recognize me."

All Might let out a hearty chuckle, vibrant blue eyes studying the nearly identical features of the young woman in front of him to the assistant upperclassman to his class. The rumors were not kidding when they said the two sisters looked like twins but, he could tell there were distinct features that separated the two. The elder sister had a darker shade of hair and eyes. Yume carried herself with a mature poise and gentle bearing whereas Ayame was more lively and bright. But, All Might can admit them both to be wonderful heroes, each with their own charm and qualities to rise above.

"Well, it wasn't difficult," All Might grinned, "You look just like your imouto. Or rather, she looks just like you."

Yume kept the smile on her face. So All Might had met Ayame before. Although not surprising since her sister had mentioned he was teaching class 1-A and she was the assistant there but, there were a few times Yume was not able to catch up with Ayame due to her heroic duties.

"Thank you for looking after Ayame," Yume set down the champagne glass and did a polite bow, surprising All Might to wave at her to straighten up with slight embarrassment. "My sister may seem immature at times but I can assure you she will do her best as a hero—especially around you."

All Might paused, thinking that this was the second time someone had vouched for Ayame and her admiration for him, and felt another chuckle to escape his lips. That girl is well loved, All Might realized.

"I don't doubt it," All Might gave a thumb up in response.

"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to I-Expo's reception party. Let's have the Number One Hero, All Might, who is visiting us today, say a few words and lead us in a toast! Everyone, please give him a round of applause!"

Both heroes stopped their conversation at the announcement. All Might looked flustered by the sudden attention and Yume joined the rest of the applause, smiling at the hero before glancing at the door again.

Aya should arrive soon if she wants to see her hero.

"Dave, I didn't know about this," All Might said nervously, not for one to make a speech spontaneously and especially with his current condition.

"This was bound to happen once they found out All Might would be here," David reasoned helplessly.

With a sigh, All Might headed up onstage with his trademark smile. Everyone's attention was on the superhero as he stood in front of the large 'I-EXPO' screen, albeit nervous yet just as professional.

"Thank you for inviting me. I am All Might. I don't like formal talk, so—"

His speech was cut off when the screen behind him changed into an alarming red, flashing the words 'EMERGENCY' and murmurs began to arise within.

"This is an announcement by the I-Island security system. We have received a report from the security system that an explosive device was placed in the I-Expo area. I-Island will now be in high alert mode. In addition, most of the main buildings will be sealed off by the security system."

The door opened to reveal several mask figures walking in with heavy guns, aiming towards the civilians and heroes within the party. The leader of the group emerged in a white jacket and dark red hair, sharp eyes gleaming behind the steel mask as he strolled forward.

"It is as you heard. We have taken over the security system. Don't think you're going to put up a fight. If you do…then the security machines will bare their fangs at all the good people on this island." The masked villain said.

The television screen showed live videos of the security drones stationed by the civilians all around the island. Yume tensed, her feet steadily inched forward as she tried to get a better look at how many threats there were. She could only put one to sleep at a time with a split second interval between each time. If she could at least get the one in charge asleep first, the other heroes within may help to subdue the lackeys.

"All the people on this island are hostages. Of course, you all are, as well." Wolfram smirked and pressed the communication device in his ear, "Do it."

Bright, blue tape shot out of the ground below them. Yume's eyes widen as the tape went straight up and—wrapped around her head, shielding her eyes from view first before the rest of the binding looped around her figure.

I'm—trapped?!

"My phone has no signal. It looks like all reports are being blocked," Shoto frowned, putting the phone back into his pocket yet—his attention was drawn to his upperclassman.

Ayame was off to the side pacing back and forth, her fingers tapping on her own phone repeatedly yet no calls or texts were able to get through. She glanced at Jirou pressing the elevator buttons yet none of the machines activated despite the relentless signals. Ayame clicked her tongue; they were truly trapped here.

"The elevator isn't working either," Jirou gave up.

"I can't believe the security system would switch into high alert mode, just because they found something explosive," Melissa analyzed.

"Iida-kun, let's go to where the party is being held," Midoriya suggested.

"Why?"

"Because All Might is at the party," Midoriya answered, shocking everyone with the answer.

"All Might?" Ochako gasped.

"My sister—too!" Ayame joined the group again, her eyes shining in determination.

"Oh, then we have nothing to worry about," Mineta let out a breath of relief.

No, something feels wrong, Ayame frowned to herself.

"We should still go to double check," Ayame said. It was not that she did not trust her sister or All Might but—they weren't invincible. Plus, there was a twisted feeling in her gut regarding this whole situation. Call it a sibling intuition but, Ayame felt restless for Yume's current position.

"Melissa-san, can you get us to the party somehow?" Midoriya asked.

"If we use the emergency stairs, I think we can get close to the party," Melissa directed their attention to the double doors behind Ayame.

"Please lead the way," Midoriya motioned.

Ayame strode forward, her mind running through scenarios of how to reach Yume and—what her current situation was. Yume would not be put at a disadvantage! Her sister was strong! As long as she has her Quirk, she can disable anyone within seconds!

A gentle tug on her arm caused her to stop. Lilac eyes met heterochromia ones of grey and turquoise as he steadily held her gaze, almost as if reading into her actions and decisions with an all too knowing inquiry.

"It'll be fine," Shoto said quietly, his hand slowly unfurling from Ayame's arm. Without her noticing, thin black trails were floating around her fingertips, as if begging to be used. Shoto eyed her Quirk subconsciously activating, returning to stare deep into her eyes. "Don't be hasty."

"I—"

Ayame moved to protest but stopped herself, looking away from him because she knew he was right. She just wanted to get to her sister fast—confirm her status—and watch Yume and All Might beat the villains because they always win.

"—know." Ayame gave him a reassuring smile. She had to be positive now. She cannot have her underclassmen be worried about her, too. "Let's go."

They ran down the hall and went up a few flights of stairs as Melissa led them. With their large group of people, they must keep quiet in case of alerting the guards around. It took a few more minutes before Melissa stopped at a hall, pointing past the door as they took a small break.

"There's a small balcony above the reception floor for you to see them. Just—be careful," Melissa warned.

"A few of us should go only. Jirou-san, can you follow us and check out the situation with your Quirk?" Midoriya took the charge.

"I'm going, too," Ayame took a step forward; she needed to see her sister.

Midoriya nodded his head, knowing that Ayame must be restless now that they knew her sister was in the party, and quietly opened the door. Jirou followed after Midoriya and Ayame gave the remaining students one glance in assurance.

"We'll be back soon."

Just as Melissa said, there was a rounded terrace above the reception floor. Below, Ayame and Midoriya can see several heroes bind by bright blue tape of some sort. The remaining civilians were forced on the ground, some shivering in fear while the guards stood above them with guns.

"There's All Might," Midoriya whispered, focusing on the trapped hero on stage.

"Yume-nee—!" Ayame's eyes widened at her sister lying down on the ground, the blue tape was wrapped around her eyes and restraining her form.

Jirou kneeled down and plugged in her earphone jack to listen in. Midoriya took out his phone and turned on the flashlight, beginning to signal All Might down below while Ayame quietly watched besides him. Not a moment later, the blonde hero looked up to the two figures, nearing gasping in surprise at the two students above.

"All Might's noticed us," Midoriya confirmed, "Jirou-san, can you do it?"

"Yeah," she nodded her head.

Midoriya turned his attention down below, waving his hand slightly to motion for the hero to talk. Ayame stayed on guard as she looked around, watching for any intruders that might notice them while waiting for Jirou to listen to what All Might would say.

"Th-this is bad, Midoriya, senpai," Jirou retracted her earphone jack, turning towards the two with a worried expression.

Ayame frowned, her eyes turning down below to look at her sister's trapped form again. Hang in there, Yume-nee.

"Let's regroup for now," Ayame whispered and tilted her head back to where they came from.

Once the three of them returned, Iida asked for an update. Then, Jirou relayed the message All Might had told them. The villains have taken over the tower and the security system, resulting in their control over the drones and holding the civilians as hostage. As seen below, all the heroes have been taken hostage as well due to the security system. And, his final instructions;

Get away from here as soon as possible.

Ayame crossed her arms, fingers drumming over the smooth blazer yet her mind was far from the present. This was bad. They were asking them to run away again but—who would be the ones to help them if all of the heroes were trapped? Were they expected to listen to the villains demands?

"We have received All Might's message. I suggest that we follow the directions of U.A. teacher All Might and escape from this place," Iida spoke first after the moment of silence, all of the students snapping out of their stupor.

"I agree with Iida-san's opinion. We are still students. We cannot fight against villains without our hero licenses," Yaoyorozu added on, worry clearly laced in her voice as she looked at the other students to agree with her.

"Then what if we escape and tell heroes outside—" Kaminari began.

"I think it'll be hard to escape. This place is built with the same level of security as Tartarus where criminal villains are kept," Melissa informed.

"Then, all we can do is wait until help comes…" Kaminari's idea vanished.

Ayame's frown deepened, the drumming of her fingertips continued as Jirou reasoned with Kaminari her feelings with this situation. With the heroes like this, and them as aspiring heroes, it does not feel right to sit around and do nothing. Mineta was clearly opposed to the idea; if even All Might was captured, how can they help?

Then—what was their point in becoming heroes if they were only stopped by something like a 'provisional hero license'?

"We are trying to become heroes," Shoto said steadily, as if reading Ayame's mind and bringing her eyes to look at the boy beside her.

"Yes, but we are still not allowed to work as heroes—" Yaoyorozu began.

"—then are we supposed to sit here and do nothing?" Ayame grew frustrated and interrupted, turning her eyes to the direction of where her sister was trapped. "My sister is there—along with All Might—along with dozens of others—and this whole island at the mercy of those villains."

"I—want to save them," Midoriya followed up. "I want to go save them."

"You're planning on fighting the villains?! Didn't you learn anything from USJ, Midoriya?!" Mineta exclaimed.

"It's not like that, Mineta-kun! I've thought about it. We need a way we can save All Might and the others without fighting the villains," Midoriya said in determination.

"I understand how you feel, but is there anything that convenient…?" Kaminari expressed his doubts.

"Even if it's hard, I still want to try! I want to look for the best way possible and then go save everyone!" Midoriya said, spoken like a true hero.

"Deku-kun…" Ochako whispered, wanting to agree with the boy who always put others first before himself.

I want to, too, Ayame silently agreed, to save Yume-nee, All Might, and everyone…

"I-Island's security system is on the top floor of this tower. If the villains have taken control of the system, then the authentication locks and passwords should have been disabled. We should be able to restart the system. We just need to get away from the eyes of the villains and get to the top floor…" Melissa gave a briefing to them, a possible way for them to free the heroes from the bindings, and hope. "Then, maybe we can save everyone."

"What do you mean by 'get away from the eyes of the villains'? How?" Jirou asked.

"Currently, none of us have actually been harmed," Yaoyorozu added.

"I think the villains aren't used to working with the security system," Melissa deduced.

"Avoid fighting and get the system back to normal, huh?" Shoto simplified, "I see."

"We could do it, don't you think?" Kaminari's spirits were lifted.

"Yeah!"

"Definitely!"

"But the villains are waiting on the top floor…"

"There's no need to fight!" Midoriya rationalized, "If we get the system back to normal, then All Might and the hostages will be released. When that happens, the tables will be turned in an instant!"

That's a little too optimistic look, Ayame reasoned within her mind, the heroes would still be too far from the top floor… If the villains reach us by the time we reset the system, the heroes would not be able to get to us on time.

"Deku-kun, let's do it!" Ochako agreed instantly. "I don't want to sit around doing nothing if there's something we can do. I think that's something that's more important whether we're heroes or not."

"Yeah, let's help the people who need help! Let's do what our natural instincts are telling us to do." Midoriya cheered instantly.

They don't seem to realize that yet, Ayame silently watched their hope renewed yet cannot bring herself to voice out the possible dangers waiting for them. With a resolved to herself, she pushed herself off the wall to step forward. Then, I'll shield them if an attack happens. I won't let them get hurt!

"I can't let you kids go alone," Ayame said with her usual bright smile, finally pulling herself together to look at the underclassmen looking at her happily.

"I'll go, too," Shoto followed up right after, causing their eyes to turn to him next.

"Me, too!" Jirou agreed.

One by one, everyone agreed to join in on their plan. Mineta looked the worst of them to agree, any little help they can get would put them at an advantage. Although Midoriya wanted Melissa to stay in hiding, Melissa reasoned she was the only one who knew how to reset the security system's setting—bringing everyone to the major part of their plan.

"We'll have to keep her safe till the top floor," Ayame nodded her head, "Like an escort mission!"

"How can you think about games like this?!"

Ayame grinned and said nothing much of it, if only to ease the tension a bit.

"I might just get in the way until we get to the top floor…but let me help protect everyone, too! Please!" Melissa begged.

Midoriya paused to allow his mind roll over the options. They truly do need Melissa in order for their plan to work.

"Don't worry, Melissa-chan!" Ayame turned to her with a smile, "You're the most important part of our plan!"

"Let's go and save everyone!" Midoriya announced.

He turned back around to enter through the door to brief All Might of his plans. Knowing that she would just be restless again if she saw Yume's trapped form again, Ayame decided not to follow Midoriya this time. Shoto approached her quietly, bringing curious lilac eyes to his figure as he leaned in just a bit closer while everyone else was distracted.

"You realized it, didn't you?" He whispered, vague and ambiguous as the question itself.

Ayame gave him a confused stare, tilting her head to the side and not giving an indication that she understood. He looked off to the side, not knowing if she completely understood his intentions but—based on the flash of apprehension and determination within her eyes earlier by the plan, Shoto knew she also realized the little flaw, too.

"Whatever happens up there," he started again, soft yet unwavering as his mismatched eyes returned to hers, "Don't do anything reckless."

If Shoto knew Ayame as he believed he does, which he does very well, then he also knew she would do everything in her power to keep them safe. As seen in the attack at USJ, against Stain, Ayame would risk her life if only to buy them time to escape. It was a heroic feat and yet, also one that Shoto found to be utterly reckless and dangerous—where the thought of her sacrificing herself gave an unpleasant feeling within his chest.

Seeing the look of realization dawned on her face, Shoto knew he got his point across. Whether Ayame would follow through with it was another story. She followed her duty as an upperclassman too well; but Shoto had prided himself as one of the strongest in 1-A.

And, he wouldn't know what to do if he saw her get hurt again.

So he refused to let that happen.

"Shoto-kun," Ayame whispered, bringing his attention back to reality and into shining lilac eyes, "I'm going to keep you safe."

She knew he was only worried about her. Lately, it seemed as if that was all Shoto was doing. His constant consideration and care was something Ayame was not used to—yet she felt utterly flattered he would give her such attention. But, she was their upperclassman and protecting them—was what she had decided upon months ago.

He saw the stubbornness in her eyes and felt his lips tug into a frown. As expected, Ayame was doing what she believed right. Shoto knew she had their safety on her mind but—can't she see she needs to stay safe, too?

Shoto does not need the constant protection as she believed he does. He had told her before; he was capable of protecting her, too. Why was it now that he felt such irritation for her disregard of her own life? He understood her sister was one of the trapped hostages but that does not warrant her to act recklessly. He could see it in her actions now—that Ayame was focused on freeing the heroes and keeping them safe—even if at the cost of her own Quirk and safety.

"I don't need you to," the words came out sharper than he intended—colder than he realized—and he regretted it immediately when Ayame stepped back in surprise. Shoto moved to explain—what he meant was—

"Okay, let's hurry," Midoriya returned and everyone's attention was back on him.

Melissa and Midoriya began to run upstairs, the rest of the students following behind. With a bite on her lips, Ayame turned around to follow.

"C'mon," she said without turning to face him, leaving Shoto to stare at her back.

The sound of their footsteps echoed the stairs as they made their way upwards. No one spoke as they climbed their way up through flights and flights of stairs, trying to conserve their energy lest they run into any trouble. So far, it had just been the teenagers running upstairs yet even with their trained stamina, they couldn't help but be curious as they reach the 30th floor.

"This is the 30th floor. Melissa-san, what's the top floor?" Midoriya took a small pause to ask the civilian lagging behind them.

The blonde took a second to breathe, gripping the railing tightly as she briefly wondered what the heroes-in-training might think of her answer.

"The 200th floor."

"Seriously?!"

"We have to climb that high?!"

Ayame let out a small breath, glancing at the little heels on her feet and felt her soles burning already. With a frown at herself, she continued to take a step upstairs, contemplating her decisions. What if, she could summon something to fly them upstairs faster? But conjuring something that could hoist the dozen of them up would be challenging on her mind—and may even disable her at the top.

"We don't have a choice," she voiced out, giving a small look at Kaminari and Mineta to be brave.

"It's better than running into villains," Yaoyorozu added.

And really, they need to continue upwards if they want to reset the security system and thwart the villain's plan. The others were counting on them, whether they know it or not, they cannot stand idly by or give up not even half way up.

They continued running upwards, Ayame trying not to focus on the floor they pass in fear of dampening her own mood in this whole operation. The space between the students were stretching further at each floor—some even being a floor or two off from each other. Ayame only realized that when Ochako stopped to wait for the last runner.

"Melissa-san, do you want me to use my Quirk on you?"

"Thanks, but I'm fine. Save your powers for when we really need it," Melissa paused to rest her legs for a few seconds, bending down to massage her calves.

Ayame stopped as well, leaning over the railing to look down at the two girls. She took another second to catch her breath and felt sweat form on her heated forehead. She raised one hand up to wipe it but stopped at the last second—nearly forgetting the blazer she had worn.

No wonder I'm so hot, Ayame realized, and turned to find Shoto—only to nearly freeze at the sight of him waiting for her a few steps up. Why was he still here—and not going ahead?

She shook those thoughts away and slipped out of the blazer, for once thankful for the cool air to run down her bare back. At least, now that the jacket was off, Ayame felt immensely cooler than before.

"Uh—" Once she realized she had most likely sweat inside the material, her arm dangled in midair from returning the blazer back to him. "On second thought, I'll return this back to you after washed."

Shoto quietly studied her, realizing her intentions within seconds and her hesitation to return the blazer. Not caring for much, he took the two steps down to her, lingering at one step above and took the jacket from her hand. Then, without a word, he bent down to reached around Ayame's waist, nearly feeling her body heat radiate onto him—as he returned his attention back to the front and tied the two sleeves together.

"You still need this more than I do," he said lowly.

Ayame looked down; the white blazer had covered the slight parting of her thigh completely. Her eyes widened by his gesture and when she looked up at his towering form, his last words from before crossed her mind. Fighting back any blush, disappointment, confusion, and other emotions from her face, Ayame walked around him and continued to run up after a hurried 'thanks'.

Ochako and Melissa had caught up with the still frozen half-and-half boy, confusion clear on their faces as Shoto quickly snapped out of his stupor. He continued to run upwards, dispelling any possible thoughts from mind now regarding his upperclassman.

The group had stopped once more when they reached the 70th floor. The giant, metal door had closed down the whole staircase completely, acting as a wall to prevent any further intrusion.

"The shutter…!" Iida's voice traveled to the remaining students catching up, all of them staring at the metal in displeasure.

"What should we do? Break it?" Shoto suggested.

"If we do that, then the security system will react, and the villains will notice us," Melissa informed.

"Then can't we just go from here?" Mineta's tired voice reached them but they realized too late when he already pulled the lever to another door, the beeping sound alerted them—and the security system of the intruders.

"Crap—let's go!" Ayame yelled and quickly, all of them dashed through the door without a choice.

"Is there any other way to go up?" Shoto asked. Now that their location had been notified, the villains would not just leave them at that.

"There's another emergency staircase like this on the opposite side," Melissa panted beside them.

"Hurry!"

Without warning, the steel walls began to close behind and in front of them. They stopped, gasping at how the shutters from the front and back were closing in on them and attempting to trap them within. Iida looked forward and took notice of a door right before the shutter before them, pointing to it quickly.

"Todoroki-kun!"

"Right!"

Ice shot out beneath his feet to prevent the last shutter from closing. Using his Quirk, Iida burst forward through the gap and kicked the door open, the explosion echoing through the hall.

"Let's cross inside here!" His voice called out in success from the other side and wasting no more time, the rest of the students jumped through the gap of the shutter.

They entered through the door; surprise flitted across their faces at the sight of greenery and trees in a makeshift indoor park. Melissa had explained it to be a plant factory and how Quirks influence the plants within. Throughout the shrubbery and machines within, Jirou pointed towards the steel elevator right in the middle.

"The elevator's coming up," Yaoyorozu realized.

"Are the villains following us…?" Mineta voiced out all of their concerns.

"Let's hide and let them pass us," Midoriya quickly advised.

"There," Ayame went to the nearest shrubbery platform and quickly, the rest followed.

They waited with weakened breath, controlling the noises they may make while catching up on much needed rest. However, the tension surrounded them in a thin veil at their exposed position from behind, waiting for the elevator to open.

"I wonder if we can use that elevator to get to the top floor?" Kaminari whispered on the other side.

"No, only authorized people can operate the elevators," Melissa informed again, "And it's made as sturdy as a bomb shelter, so we can't destroy it."

"Come on, let us use the conveniences of modern civilization!" Mineta shook.

For once, Ayame did agree with him. Everything seemed to be working against them now; their goal of reaching the top was dwindling. If worst comes to worst…I'll stall them here, Ayame gave a sidelong glance to the students beside her, hopefully…it won't come down to that.

The elevator rang, signaling that it had stopped at their floor. Everyone tensed once more as the door opened to reveal two villains wearing matching black vests, strolling out to scan the area. She clenched her fists tighter, trying to resist the trembling when everyone else was nervous as it was.

Something light rested over her hand, feather light coolness traced over her knuckles and Ayame spared that moment to stare at Shoto in wonder. He looked over at the same time and although his face was his usual calm, Ayame can detect the worry and tension within his eyes, as if urging her to remain calm. She said nothing and returned her gaze back to the two villains leaving the elevator, trying to ignore his actions because she could still remember his previous words.

"I found you, you damn kids!"

The villain's voice brought terror to their hearts, all wondering the same thing as they stayed frozen behind the bush. Ayame's hands clenched even more but felt her feet shift, ready to jump to their defense and draw the villain's attention away if necessary. But the hold on her hand tightened and Ayame did not need to turn to know Shoto knew exactly what she was thinking.

Damn it!

"Huh? What did you say, you bastard?"

A new voice filled the area instead, surprising the students hiding behind the bushes. Everyone turned to the direction of the familiar voice, eyes widening at the sight of the ash blonde and redhead.

Kacchan?! Eijiro-kun?!

"What are you doing here?" The villain continued to ask.

"That's what I want to know—" but Bakugo was unperturbed, showing no respect for the unknown man.

"Leave this to me, okay?!" Kirishima immediately acted as the mediator. "Um, we got lost… Where should we go for the reception?"

Ayame could feel her anxiety spike for Kirishima's innocent question. How did they get lost 80th floor from the reception room?! Don't they know the situation now?! Should they be alerted by the security system's broadcast earlier?!

"I can see through you! Don't lie to me!" The tall villain, Nobu's hand extended into a webbed flaw, pulling it back and sending an unknown shockwave towards the duo's direction.

"His Quirk—!"

"Kirishima!"

"Damn it, dodge!"

Ayame hastily stood up with Midoriya, running out in their direction right as a giant ice pillar shot out behind her. Luckily Shoto was faster in reacting to dispel the opponent's Quirk but now, they lost the element of surprise.

"We'll stall for time here," Shoto quickly decided and kneeled down, ice forming beneath his hands and a trail headed towards the group. "Look for a way to get to the top!"

They were going to be separated—she knew that—but currently, Ayame was in between Shoto and Bakugo so the ice could not reach her. She looked between the group of students then back to the half-and-half boy, her mind torn between going with them—or staying with him.

"Ayame," Shoto called out to her, bringing panicked lilac eyes to his unwavering form. He knew what she was conflicted about—so he decided to make the decision for her. "Go with them."

The ice beneath Midoriya and the others were already flying up but—Ayame stayed frozen while watching him. He—wanted her to—what?!

"No—! I won't leave you!" And just like that, she had voiced out her wish—surprising herself with how strongly she felt about it. But currently, she cannot dwell on her own emotions when worry overpowered a majority of it.

"I don't need you to."

Yet, she was reminded of Shoto's own abilities, knowing that he was stronger without her and did not need her constant coddling. Ayame abruptly froze from the reminder yet cannot tear her eyes away from him.

"You have to," his tone left no room for argument, mismatched eyes boring into startled lilac eyes.

It had been awkward, he knew, he had not meant for his previous wording to sound so harsh—but he barely have time to explain it now. Only, Shoto could urge her upwards with a gentle pat on her back, his fingers accidentally lingered by her hair for the briefest of seconds.

"Trust me, Ayame," he continued in a softer tone, "You don't have to do this alone. I'll be right behind you after I clean this up."

Ayame's eyebrows furrowed slightly in confusion yet were unable to decipher his words due to the urgency of the situation. With a reluctant sigh, she nodded her head, black smoke beginning to dance around her form as she took one step forward.

"You have to keep your word," she turned to the two confused boys then, "Eijiro-kun, Kacchan, meet up with us later!"

With that, a medium size tengu appeared below her feet and flew above to chase the students. Even high above, Ayame saw the villains break through the ice wall below and the three of them began to engage in combat with the two villains.

It's fine, it's fine, it's fine, Ayame bit her lip and turned around, I trust them.

"Senpai!" Midoriya greeted in astonishment once Ayame landed next to them, running down the railing above the plant factory.

"Are they—going to be alright?" Yaoyorozu asked with a glance behind them.

"Un, they will be," Ayame said with a resolute voice, "Let's keep going!"

"The shutters blocked still!" Kaminari pointed out the current dilemma, causing the group to still in their sprint.

"Shoto-kun and the others are stalling for time now. We can't waste it here," Ayame clicked her tongue, glaring at the steel doors for blocking their path.

"Then, let's break through them. The villains already know our location," Midoriya suggested first.

Iida broke through the door, smoke and rubble clouding their vision for a few seconds before they realized—they were still trapped on both sides.

"Hey, what should we do? We're like mice caught in a bag!" Mineta cried out.

They began to look around the area, feeling trapped by Mineta's comment with nowhere to go. Midoriya noticed a latch on the ceiling, turning towards the blonde and pointed at the top.

"Melissa-san, do you see something that looks like a door on the ceiling?"

At that, everyone turned towards the direction Midoriya had pointed. True to his words, there was a small vent above to the corner.

"The maintenance room for the sunlight system!"

"Wouldn't that have an emergency ladder?" Iida asked hopefully.

"It's true that there's a manual one, but we can only access it from the inside."

Their plan was nearly ruined until Yaoyorozu created a small explosive, sending it flying upwards and opened the latch.

"If you go outside through the space in the vent, you can use the outside wall to get to the top floor!"

Their spirits brightened up with the new plan yet the group quietly discussed amongst themselves at exactly who could. It was a cramped space and there was the risk of going outside. But, as they ran the plan through their mind, there was only one person who could.

Mineta froze and began to argue yet with a little bit of coaxing from Kaminari, Ochako, and Jirou, he finally relented. Ayame let out a small sigh and motioned Mineta towards her, black tendrils drifting from her arm again as she created a bird for his mount.

"Hop on. It'll take you up top."

"I'd feel safer if you come along, senpai—"

"Hurry along, Mineta," Ayame smiled politely, "Before I lose my concentration and the summon disappears."

Without another word, the short boy hopped onto the bird and clung to it with dear life. It'll take more than a few words for Ayame to lose her focus but there was no time for playing now. Part of her was still worried for Shoto, Bakugo, and Kirishima. Based on the explosions she kept hearing below, they may be having difficulties with the villains.

It felt painfully long before Mineta returned, lowering the ladder for the rest of them to climb up. One by one they climbed up; Ayame lagging behind to make sure no one else was following them. With one last look towards the battling students direction, she left.

As they reached the 100th floor, the shutters were no longer blocking their way. Although they continued to run above, Ayame could not help the nervous twist in her gut in apprehension. The villains must know they were coming so why were they allowing them to pass? Was there a trap waiting for them? Another villain? It was too difficult to tell.

When they reached 130th floor, the students realized why they were allowed to go by. Dozens and dozens of small robots of the security system piled in from the vents, flashing red in warning. Without any hesitation, Ayame stepped in front of the students with smoke drifting from her body, a long serpent body appearing to hover in front of her while the tail wrapped around her body.

"You guys need to go ahead first! I can stop them here," Ayame gave them a glance.

"Alone?!" Mineta gasped.

"We can assist!" Yaoyorozu added.

"No! Save your energy for up there. I will catch up soon," Ayame turned her attention to the approaching robots, "Besides, they're just machines. What can they do?"

Right as she said that, her serpent dashed forward, ramming its ghostly body at the first few robots and knocking them off the bridge and down the tower. At the sight of Ayame handling the robots well, Midoriya pointed to the door beyond their right.

"We can't waste time to stall here. Senpai! Follow us soon!" Midoriya instructed and began to run off.

The red robots began to head towards the group's direction but Ayame blocked them off. With the serpent distracting them in the back, Ayame conjured another ookami to mount and bite off the closest ones. Once the last of the students escaped through the door, she let out a small sigh of relief before turning back towards the robots.

"Persistent little buggers," she clicked her tongue. Knocking them into the ground would not simply do; their tough exterior metal was hard to break through and barely scratched up. "I'll just knock you off this floor!"

Unlike other floors, this one had four bridges connecting to a center tower. They were also elevated from the ground and that was how Ayame was able to buy the students some time earlier. However, some robots were able to stand up even from the bottom and were moving shakily around.

"Hyah!"

Ayame jumped down from the ookami and punched a robot with her serpent coiled hand. The robot flew back onto the other side of the tower while Ayame stumbled behind her. The serpent disappeared from her hand but she raised it up shakily to her head, sensing the familiar sensation of a throbbing headache in her temple.

Okay, okay, three is the limit. Just don't overdo it—I can handle that.

However, in her distraction, she missed the thin metal wires shooting out of the robots from the bottom. Ayame realized too late when she felt the wires wrapped around her middle, tugging off the railing and through the air. She gasped as her hands were bound to her side, looking down at the direction of the robot—and closed her eyes to concentrate.

The two summons disappeared, lingering smoke reverted back to her body to combine into something else. The wires pulsated and bulged around her frame as the creature forced itself outward—a form stabilizing into the giant dragon and cushioned her fall. As the wires retreated back, Ayame saw the white fabric following it—her lilac eyes widened at the miss of warmth.

"Shoto-kun's jacket!"

Her hand grasped the fabric and tugged, bringing the jacket back to her body yet she gasped at all the scratches and loose threads on the material. Although she knew there were more pressing matters at hand than some clothing, she couldn't help but feel guilty—this was expensive!

"I can't afford to pay him back!" Ayame shouted at the robots.

The robots only hummed at her and—multiple wires shot out towards her form again. Ayame's eyes widen again and hastily slipped the jacket on again, rearing the dragon up to block the wires and moved to knock the robots off the bridge. The flight ruffled her long hair behind, skirt fluttering around her knees as she hopped off the dragon and back to the bridge. There were only less than five robots on the same foot as her. As the dragon fended off the ones trying to climb back on, Ayame faced the remaining five.

"Alright, time to finish this and head up!"

Thin wires shot out again but Ayame was ready, running forward and dodging left and right to avoid the obstacles. While the main dragon took most of her concentration, she focused on a small serpent to have it dashed forward to slither around one robot and tossing it to another. As she was fighting off another robot, Ayame did not see the last one shoot its wires at her—only realizing too late when it was already too close for her to dodge.

Crap!

The bridge rumbled and broke apart; Ayame stunned as she lost her footing and began to slip down. Questions and confusion plagued her mind and in her panic, she did not notice a hand went to grasp her wrist, preventing her from falling and—pulling her up. Lilac eyes widen at the sight of a smiling boy, his icy hair and white suit meeting her gaze as Yuu used the little gems formed on the bridge to climb up. As she looked beyond him, Ayame saw Noeru standing by the door of the remaining bridge, crystal hair reflecting the light within.

"Yuu?! Takarada?!"

A/N:

I'm trying to rush through the fight scenes and explanations since it's nearing the end and the movie was more of Midoriya's development. But, at least it's more fluff and interactions with our clueless duo ahah

Reviews are much loved! Ayame is partnering up with the princes! How will her reunion with Shoto turn out?