Mailin’s POV
It’s a warm Saturday afternoon, the sun streaming through the U.A. windows, casting a comforting glow over the school grounds. Class 1-A is bustling with excitement, each student absorbed in their preparations for the upcoming School Festival. The air is buzzing with chatter, the occasional burst of laughter breaking through as everyone tries to outdo each other with ideas for their performances.
As the class continues to work, the door to the practice room slides open, and in walks Shota, Mirio, and me, with Eri standing quietly between us. Her small figure, dwarfed by the large doorframe, draws the immediate attention of Izuku, Ochaco, and Tsuyu, their faces lighting up at the sight of her.
"Eri!" Ochaco calls out excitedly, rushing forward with a beaming smile. Izuku follows, waving energetically, his usual warmth evident in every gesture. "It’s so good to see you again!"
I feel Eri’s little hand grip the fabric of my skirt tightly. Her wide, ruby-red eyes flit around the room, taking in all the unfamiliar faces. I glance over at Shota. He notices her tension too, and with a soft look in his eyes, gives me a quiet nod. I lower myself to Eri’s level, keeping my voice calm and soothing.
"Hey, sweetie," I say gently, making sure my eyes meet hers. "You remember Midoriya and the others, right? They’re really happy to see you."
Eri’s grip loosens slightly, her gaze shifting to Izuku and Ochaco. She doesn’t speak, but I can feel her begin to relax just a little. Progress, even if it’s small.
Shota steps forward, his tone calm but firm as always. "Principal Nezu has given permission for Eri to attend the School Festival. Today’s just to let her get used to the place, so she’s not overwhelmed when the big day comes."
The rest of Class 1-A quickly gathers around, curious and excited to see Eri. Tsuyu hops forward, her wide eyes gleaming with kindness. "It’s nice to meet you, Eri-chan! We’ve heard so much about you."
Eri’s fingers inch toward her mouth, a nervous habit she hasn’t quite shaken. Before she can chew her nails, I gently take her hand, squeezing it reassuringly. "You’re okay," I whisper, smiling softly. "Everyone here is really nice. We’ll take it slow."
Mirio kneels down beside her, his grin as bright as ever. "How about we show you around a bit, yeah? There’s so much cool stuff happening for the festival! You’re gonna love it."
Izuku’s face lights up. "Do you want to come with us, Eri? We’ll make sure you have fun."
Eri looks up at me, her big eyes flicking to Shota as if seeking permission. I can see her trust starting to build, and it makes my heart ache in the best way. Shota, always the steady presence, gives her a small nod. "Go on," he says. "We’ll be here."
That tiny nod is all she needs. Eri slowly nods back and lets go of my hand, taking a tentative step toward Mirio and Izuku.
Shota and I fall in step behind them as we leave the practice room, but my eyes remain on Eri. I can’t help it. I feel this overwhelming need to protect her.
---
Shota’s POV
I watch as Eri walks ahead with Mirio and Midoriya, her small form dwarfed by the halls of U.A. Her shoulders are still tense, but the way she’s walking now, with a little more confidence, tells me she’s trying. It’s all we can ask for right now.
Beside me, Mailin is just as focused on Eri, her hand brushing against mine as we walk. She’s always had a soft spot for the girl. I think we both do, though neither of us has fully admitted it. There’s this unspoken understanding between us when it comes to her—like we’re on the same wavelength.
“She’s getting more comfortable,” I murmur, glancing over at Mailin. I keep my voice low, not wanting to disturb the moment ahead.
“She’s tough,” Mailin replies, her voice full of quiet pride. “It’s going to take time, but she’s stronger than she knows.”
I nod, feeling a warmth spread through my chest at Mailin’s words. She’s right. Eri has been through hell, but she’s still standing. Still finding her way.
We continue to follow them down the hall, passing Class 1-B’s practice area. Mirio points excitedly at the students preparing for their fantasy play. Eri’s eyes widen at the sight of costumes and props, her grip tightening on Izuku’s sleeve.
Mailin, always so in tune with her, leans down and whispers, “It’s going to be just like a fairytale. Would you like to see it?”
Eri nods shyly, and I feel a pang of something in my chest. It’s a strange feeling, but I push it down. She’s not just another student I have to protect. She’s… more. And somehow, it feels like Mailin and I are starting to understand that.
---
Mailin’s POV
As we move through the school, showing Eri everything from the festival preparations to the busy students, I can feel her loosening up bit by bit. But it’s when we pass the Development Studio that her nerves come back in full force.
The sounds of clanking machinery make her flinch, her face scrunching up in discomfort. I crouch down beside her, brushing a few strands of hair from her face. "It’s okay, Eri. This is where they make all the cool gadgets for heroes. It’s noisy, but it’s safe."
Eri’s eyes remain wide, but I stroke her back gently, murmuring reassurances until I feel her start to relax again. It’s like I’ve done this a thousand times, even though I haven’t. At least, not with her.
“Do you want to skip this part?” I ask, my voice full of understanding. She nods, her relief palpable, and we move on, leaving the noise behind.
Shota catches up to us, his gaze softening as he watches me with Eri. I know he feels it too—the protectiveness, the need to be there for her in ways we never expected.
---
Shota’s POV
We reach the cafeteria, where the warm smells of food fill the air. Mirio, ever the optimist, turns to Eri, his grin wide. "Alright, Eri! What do you think of everything so far?"
She hesitates for a moment, her voice quiet but filled with curiosity. “Everyone is working really hard. I want to see how it turns out.”
I can’t help but feel a swell of pride for her. She’s starting to come out of her shell, bit by bit.
Mailin catches my eye across the table, and for a moment, there’s a quiet understanding between us. We’re doing something right. She’s finding her way, and we’re here for her.
As the day winds down, and it’s time for Eri to return to the hospital, Mailin kneels in front of her one last time, her voice gentle but firm. “Next time you come to the festival, we’ll be right here waiting for you. And we’ll make sure you have the best time ever, okay?”
Eri nods, and for the first time, she gives Mailin a tiny smile. It’s small, but it’s real, and I feel something shift inside me.
We watch as Mirio and Midoriya take Eri away, and I stand beside Mailin, our hands brushing once again. I don’t say anything, but I know. I know that this isn’t just about teaching or protecting anymore.
It’s about something more. Something like family.
YOU ARE READING
Ripples of Fate
RomansaAt U.A. High School, aspiring heroes are trained to fight, protect, and heal. For Mizuhana Mailin, her dream of becoming a hero is not about power or fame-it's about saving lives. With her water-based quirk that focuses on healing, she stands apart...
