On the Run

Hero Gala

This chapter is unedited, but I've been putting it off for far too long. So here! I'll be back to edit. Enjoy!

Camera shutters flashed, reporters chatted, and spectators gathered around the red carpet as they awaited the celebrated heroes of tonight.

The limousine sidled up to the entrance, and the crowd seemed to go wild. They knew who it was. The silver "TG" emblem told them everything they needed to know.

The chauffeur opened the car door, holding out a hand for you. There you were, the main event of the night. The spectators screamed as you climbed out of the car. Your eyes and the sheer mask you wore were the only things they could see. But they were going crazy anyway, loving the way you looked at them.

You waved at the fans gathered outside the venue, screaming your name. Before posing on the red carpet, you had time to sign a few autographs.

Your stare was neutral, intimidating yet poised. Your poses were sharp and succinct. You looked regal in your dress, the mask a sweet touch to the mystery that was Pro hero Terra.

Soon, you stepped into the venue, disappearing from public view.

...

From home, the heroes and children observed the hero gala red carpet, cheering for you.

"So, what do you guys think of my wonderful bestie? She's great right?" Maya asked randomly. The heroes of Japan were gathered in the living room, the TV droning on in the background. She was curious about the impression you left on these people you let into your home. The group paused.

"She's..." Midoriya hesitated.

"Well..." Kirishima started.

They never finished, nervous and unsure expressions crossing their faces. Yes, they did make progress with you. But was it really progress when there was a part of you they still didn't know?

"You guys can be honest. Just not too honest."

"Well," Midoriya started. "She can be a little standoffish and aloof sometimes, but she's nice."

"Her hospitality is greatly appreciated," Yaoyorozu added.

A tense pause drifted between the group.

"She hasn't talked much, has she?" Maya said. They all shook their heads. Maya sighed.

"I can tell she's trying," Mina said. "She just doesn't know how to go about it. Or she doesn't have the energy to."

"Plus, it's hard when she always has this look on her face," Uraraka added. 

"I swear she's better than this. It's probably 'cause of work and-"

"Don't make excuses for her," Iida snapped.

Maya raised an eyebrow. "I'm not," she said indignantly. "She is busy, probably even more now. Her popularity has gone through the roof, and she's getting overwhelmed. She's trying to give everyone what they want without crossing her boundaries, or theirs. One thing I know is she will never put herself in an uncomfortable situation."

They hadn't thought about that.

"I know her. She may not be the most forthcoming when it comes to her personal life, but she does want you guys to know her. She cares, just not in ways you'll see."

They ruminated on her statement and focused more on keeping Kya and Oliver entertained. Some believed her, certainty in the ways you'd loosened up, while others were still skeptical.

...

You walked carefully into the venue, admiring the greeting hall: bright chandeliers, deep walls, red velvet curtains, and dark tiled flooring. The rooms were decorated in a warm glow. It was elegant and beautiful. You followed the multitude of guests, recognizing a few. Heroes you'd assisted before, newbies, and veterans.