Chapter 59: 59: Just in [BREAKING NEWS]
The next morning, the dining room in the villa buzzed with the sounds of utensils clinking and casual chatter. Aiden sat at the head of the table, dressed in a loose white shirt and sweatpants, his dreadlocks tied back lazily.
Celeste, as usual, looked impeccably neat, wearing a casual yet elegant outfit, her glasses perched perfectly on her nose. Kaela was sprawled in her chair, sporting her usual energetic grin, while Seraphine maintained her composed demeanor.
Elara had prepared a delightful breakfast spread, ranging from pancakes to fresh fruits and pastries.
Nimbus darted around the table, occasionally trying to sneak a bite, only to be gently shooed away by Seraphine.
As they ate, the large flat-screen television on the wall flickered to life, catching everyone's attention. The channel had switched to a live news report.
"This just in," the reporter began, standing in front of the Tokyo theatre that had been the site of the previous night's chaos. "An attack on a local theatre yesterday evening has left citizens shaken but thankfully unharmed, thanks to the intervention of an unidentified group of individuals.
Authorities have confirmed that the assailant was a dangerous villain known as Umbrael, whose quirk, 'Eclipse,' enables him to manipulate and weaponize shadows."
The screen cut to shaky footage taken by a bystander. It showed a golden-armoured figure—Aiden in his hero suit—engaged in battle.
The crowd gasped audibly in the background of the footage as light spears illuminated the scene, countering the encroaching darkness. Another clip showed Celeste deflecting a shadowy tendril with a dazzling burst of energy.
The anchor continued, showing clips of Kamui Woods and other pro heroes arriving late to the scene. "Witnesses say the young hero, later identified as Aiden Wilhelm Fritz, a student of U.A. High, worked alongside others to evacuate civilians while engaging the villain. Notably, the collateral damage was minimal, thanks to the efforts of his companions."
The camera cut to a brief interview with one of the theatre-goers. "It was incredible," the woman said, clutching a plushie from the musical. "He and his friends made sure we were safe. I've never seen anything like it."
"Wow," Celeste said, adjusting her glasses and glancing at Aiden. "Looks like your fan club is growing."
Aiden smirked. "Not my fault I'm good at what I do."
"Good at showing off," Kaela teased, earning a laugh from the table.
The anchor's tone shifted slightly as she addressed the controversy surrounding the event. "However, not everyone is praising the young hero's actions. Tokyo's police chief expressed concern over the involvement of unlicensed individuals, citing a violation of regulations. In a heated exchange, Principal Nezu of U.A. defended his student's actions, stating that they were within reason given the circumstances."
Footage played of Nezu addressing the media. "Aiden's actions, while technically unlicensed, were a matter of necessity. The safety of the civilians was paramount, and his intervention ensured that lives were saved."
"That little guy has my back," Aiden said with a grin, pointing at the screen.
"But the chief wasn't so supportive," the anchor added, showing a clip of the chief. "We cannot have vigilantes acting outside the law. It sets a dangerous precedent."
Kaela snorted, nearly choking on her juice. " That man just wanted to hear himself talk. Aiden handled that chief like a pro."
Aiden chuckled, leaning back in his chair. "Handled, huh? More like dodged a never-ending barrage of nagging. And Nezu stepping in? That was a stroke of luck."
Celeste adjusted her glasses, her brow furrowed as she watched the screen. "It's not about luck. It's about knowing when to assert yourself. Besides, you were in the right. That chief was being unnecessarily obstinate."
Seraphine nodded, sipping her tea. "Still, we should tread carefully. Public perception matters. What we did was heroic, but it's also important to respect the systems in place."
The anchor moved on to discuss the aftermath of the event, including the capture of Umbrael. "Umbrael, now in custody, is being held at a secure facility while authorities investigate his motives. Meanwhile, the young hero and his companions remain a hot topic of discussion."
The report shifted to show interviews with bystanders. A young woman, holding her child, spoke emotionally about how the group's quick actions ensured everyone's safety. Another clip featured a wide-eyed teen who gushed about seeing "a real-life hero team in action."
Aiden smirked. "At least someone appreciates the effort."
Elara, balancing a tray of freshly made croissants, set it on the table and gave Aiden a look. "The effort was good, but don't let it go to your head. You're not invincible, Aiden."
Kaela waved her fork dramatically. "Oh, come on, Elara! Did you see him out there? He was like a walking sun, burning all that gloom to ashes!"
Celeste rolled her eyes. "We all played a part, Kaela. Let's not inflate Aiden's ego more than necessary."
The room erupted into a mix of laughter and playful banter as the news segment concluded with a montage of the team's efforts. The reporter ended with, "Whoever they are, Tokyo is grateful for their courage. Let's hope we see them again—but hopefully under less dire circumstances."
Elara took a seat, pouring herself some tea. "So, what's the plan for today? You all had quite the adventure yesterday."
Kaela leaned forward, grinning mischievously. "Maybe we should visit the police station. See if that chief still has steam coming out of his ears."
Aiden shook his head, smirking. "I think I've had enough of him for one lifetime."
Celeste nudged her glasses, her tone thoughtful. "It might not be a bad idea to have a quiet day. Recharge, strategise, and—"
"—annoy each other," Kaela interjected, earning a soft swat from Seraphine.
"Whatever we do," Aiden said, grabbing a piece of toast, "let's make sure it doesn't involve villains, reporters, or stubborn police chiefs. Deal?"
The group raised their cups in a mock toast, agreeing to a day of peace.
-
-
"Now shoo, its time for school," Elara said as she took the plates to the kitchen.
"I'm driving!!" Kaela shouted into Seraphine's ear as is to cement her statement. In response Seraphine just shot her an irritated glare.
A little later~
The morning air was crisp as Aiden and Celeste emerged from their rooms, now dressed in their pristine U.A. uniforms. Aiden adjusted the sleeves of his blazer, the gold accents on his tie catching the morning sunlight.
Celeste, ever meticulous, straightened her glasses and tugged at the hem of her skirt, ensuring everything was in place.
"You look sharp," Aiden teased as he held the villa door open for her.
"I always do," Celeste quipped back with a small smile.
Kaela waited by the car, leaning casually against the sleek black vehicle with her usual energy. "Ready to dazzle the school?" she called out, her grin mischievous.
"More like shake it up," Aiden replied as they climbed in.
Kaela fired up the car, and they set off, making a quick stop at Toru's manor. The gates opened as they approached, revealing Toru standing near the entrance with her parents. She looked radiant in her U.A. uniform, the sunlight catching the silky texture of her now-visible hair.
Her parents waved warmly, though there was a visible trace of nervousness in their smiles. Toru climbed into the car, a bundle of excitement and apprehension.
"Good morning, sunshine," Aiden greeted, offering a reassuring smile. "You ready for the big reveal?"
Toru hesitated, fidgeting with her sleeves. "I... I think so. But what if they don't recognise me? What if they don't like what they see?"
Aiden reached out and gently took her hand. "Toru, they're going to love you. And if anyone gives you trouble, they'll have me to deal with. Besides," he added with a wink, "didn't I tell you you're stunning?"
Her cheeks flushed, and she nodded with a small smile.
"Kaela," Aiden said, turning to the driver's seat, "take the long route. We need to make an entrance."
Kaela raised an eyebrow but smirked. "Dramatic as always, huh? Fine, but if Aizawa chews you out for being late, I'm blaming you."
The ride was leisurely, allowing Toru to settle her nerves as they drove through the quiet streets of Musutafu. When they finally reached U.A., the school grounds were bustling with students, all eager to start the day.
Kaela parked, and the three of them walked into the building, Toru staying slightly behind Aiden and Celeste, who acted as her steadfast shield.
When they entered the classroom, Aizawa was already seated at his desk, his face buried in the attendance register. He didn't even glance up, muttering absently, "You're late. Sit down."
The rest of the class, however, was far more attentive. Heads turned as the trio walked in, their classmates' eyes instantly locking onto Toru. Murmurs rippled through the room as they took their seats—Aiden and Celeste in their usual spots, and Toru sliding into her own seat by the window.
"Who's the new girl?" Kaminari whispered to Kirishima, who shrugged, his eyes wide with curiosity.
"I didn't hear about any transfer students," Yaoyorozu added, tilting her head in confusion.
"Wait, isn't that Toru's seat?" Midoriya said, scratching his head. "But where is she?"
Aizawa, still not looking up, called out names in his usual monotone. "Midoriya."
"Here."
"Bakugo."
"Yeah."
"Hagakure."
"Here!" Toru responded cheerfully, raising her hand.
"....."
"..."
"...."
The entire room froze. Heads whipped toward her, and a collective gasp filled the air.
"Wait, WHAT?!" Mina screeched, practically jumping out of her seat. "That's Toru?!"
"No way!" Kaminari exclaimed, leaning forward to get a better look.
"She's... visible?" Todoroki said, his normally calm demeanour slightly rattled.
Jiro stared, her mouth slightly open. "That's what she looks like? She's... gorgeous!"
"Hey, Toru, is that really you?" Kirishima called, his voice filled with disbelief.
Toru giggled nervously, waving at everyone. "Yep, it's me! Surprise!"
"How?!" Midoriya asked, frantically taking notes. "Did you develop a new aspect of your quirk? Or is it some kind of support item?"
All eyes turned to Aiden, who was casually leaning back in his chair, looking very pleased with himself.
"It's a little something I whipped up," he said with a grin.
"You made this happen?" Jiro asked, incredulous.
Aiden nodded. "Of course. It's what I do."
The class erupted into a flurry of questions and exclamations, swarming Toru's desk. She laughed, her initial nerves melting away as her friends showered her with compliments and admiration.
Even Aizawa finally looked up, his tired eyes narrowing slightly as he assessed the commotion. "Settle down," he said, though his voice lacked its usual edge. His gaze lingered on Toru for a moment, and he gave a small nod before returning to his register.
As the class gradually calmed, Toru glanced at Aiden, her smile radiant. He returned it with a wink, mouthing, "Told you."