𝕄ℍ𝔸: BLACK-LIGHT

Chapter 12 // Semi Finals

The crowd buzzed with anticipation as the next semi-final match began. On one side of the ring stood Katsuki Bakugou, his explosive temper already flaring as he glared across the arena.

On the other side was Lily, bouncing lightly on her heels, her whimsical clown-like energy a stark contrast to Bakugou's aggressive demeanor.

Present Mic: "IT'S TIME FOR THE NEXT MATCH IN OUR SEMI-FINALS! WILL BAKUGOU'S EXPLOSIVE FORCE WIN THE DAY, OR WILL LILY'S CLOWNISH QUIRKS KEEP HER IN THE RING?"

Aizawa: "Lily's unpredictability might give her an edge, but Bakugou's too focused to fall for the same tricks twice."

As the match began, Bakugou wasted no time, charging at Lily with an explosion that shattered part of the ground. But Lily, true to her nature, cartwheeled away in a blur of exaggerated movement, narrowly dodging his attack.

Bakugou: "Stop bouncing around, you! I'm gonna blast you and your weird boyfriend outta here for good!"

The mention of Ray made Lily falter slightly, her cheeks flushing a soft pink.

Lily: "HE'S NOT MY BOYFRIEND!"

The distraction gave Bakugou a chance to launch a powerful explosion, blasting through the confetti cloud and striking Lily squarely in the chest. The force sent her flying out of the ring, landing unceremoniously on the ground outside.

Present Mic: "AND THAT'S A WRAP! BAKUGOU WINS AND MOVES ON TO THE FINAL ROUND!"

As the crowd erupted into cheers and murmurs, Bakugou stalked back toward the waiting area, his face twisted in irritation.

Bakugou: "Stupid clown tricks. Waste of time."

While the crowd focused on Bakugou's victory, Midnight approached Lily, who was still sprawled on the ground. Lily groaned, sitting up slowly and rubbing her head.

Lily: "Ouch...I think I'll be tasting dirt for a week."

Midnight knelt beside her, her usual playful smile replaced with a slightly more serious expression.

Midnight: "You did well, Sweetie. But... there's something I need to tell you."

Lily blinked, confused.

Lily: "Uh...okay?"

Midnight leaned in closer, lowering her voice slightly.

Midnight: "You have my permission to date my son."

The words hit Lily like a freight train. Her face turned a deep shade of red as she stared at Midnight in shock.

Lily: "W-Wait, Ray is your son?! And what do you mean by-"

Before she could finish, Midnight stood and turned back toward the arena, her usual sultry demeanor returning as she announced the next match.

Midnight: "Let's get ready for the next exciting round!"

Meanwhile, Lily sat frozen on the ground, her mind racing.

Lily: "I-I can't believe it... Midnight's his mom? And...she thinks I like him?"

Back in the stands, Ray's expression remained as neutral as ever. He shifted slightly, resting his head on his hand as he stared blankly at the arena.

Ray: "She's gonna overthink this for the rest of the day. Great."

Jirou: "You really don't care about anything, do you?"

Mina: [giggling] "It's kinda cute, though! Don't you think she and Ray would make an adorable couple?"