Unveiled Winds || Katsuki Bakugou x Reader

Chapter 18 - Ghost of the Past (pt1)

~ 3 years ago ~

The grand hall was filled with the low hum of chatter as heroes and fans alike awaited the announcements. The announcer's voice resonated through the elegant room, amplified by a subtle sound system.

"Now, for an exciting milestone in hero history! The number six hero in the rankings, making her the youngest hero ever to break into the top ten... Tempest!"

Applause erupted from the audience, and you felt a rush of pride and excitement as your name was called. Next to you, your friend Ayumi leaped up, her long, auburn hair flowing as she threw her arms around you in a tight hug.

"You did it, Y/N!" Ayumi exclaimed, her eyes shining with excitement. "You're incredible! I knew you had it in you!"

Ayumi, with her slender build and graceful presence, had been a steadfast companion throughout your hero journey. Her quirk, Light Manipulation, made her an agile and strategic hero, while her calm demeanor and unwavering support made her a pillar of strength in your life.

You turned to her, gratitude shining in your eyes. "Thank you, Ayumi. I couldn't have done this without you."

Ayumi smiled warmly, giving you a supportive hug. "You've earned it, Y/N. You're amazing."

The announcer's voice interrupted your moment. "And now, the top five heroes! In fifth place, we have Tsukuyomi! In fourth place, Lemillion! Coming in at number three, Shoto!"

Applause filled the room as Shoto's name was called.

"And now, the top two heroes! At number two, Dynamite!"

The crowd erupted with cheers for Dynamite.

"And finally, the number one hero in the rankings... Deku!"

The hall exploded with applause and cheers as the top heroes were celebrated.

"And let's not forget," the announcer continued, "what makes this year's rankings especially impressive: the top three heroes all hail from the same UA class! An incredible testament to their training and teamwork. Give it up for Shoto, Dynamite, and Deku!"

Ayumi, still beaming with pride, turned to you with a glint of admiration in her eyes. "Can you believe it? The top three heroes are all from the same UA class. They battled the League of Villains together and now they're dominating the rankings. It's so impressive!"

Noticing your silence, Ayumi turned to you and saw the gloomy expression on your face. Concerned, she gently nudged your shoulder. "Hey, Y/N, don't worry. You're still hella strong. You're less than two years younger than them and you're already this close."

You sighed, shaking your head. "Oh, it's not that."

Ayumi looked puzzled. "Then what is it?"

You exhaled sharply. "It's not fair. I wish I got to kick that much ass!"

Ayumi stared at you, momentarily dumbfounded. Then, with a friendly sigh, she shook her head, a hint of disappointment in her voice. "Really, Y/N? That's what you're worried about? I thought you might be concerned about something serious"

You crossed your arms, frustration clear in your voice. "Well, they got to fight the League of Villains in their first year! We never got some cool ass battle like that"

Ayumi chuckled, shaking her head. "Y/N, you know it's not all about the battles, right? You've achieved so much already. You're the youngest hero in the top ten! That's incredible on its own."

You sighed, feeling the weight of your thoughts. "Yeah, but the rank doesn't really mean much when the top three aren't that much older than me. I'm never catching up to them." You glanced at the stage, where the top heroes were being celebrated.