Archive of Our Own

“You’re kinda weird…” She whispered through her tears, “Ochako.”

The brown haired girl couldn’t help the sob that wrecked through her body. “You’re one to talk!” She wailed, “You can’t do this!”

“I live and love as I please.” Himiko grinned tearfully.

The tube between the two of them was still pumping and Ochako could feel her limbs flow with new life. Her own blood was being transfered by Himiko, whose blonde hair curled around their heads in a halo, kissing Ochako’ face as she spoke.

“So no, I can’t let you catch me- Just like how you can’t bear to let me get away.”

A classic hero, a classic villain.

And yet. “I’m sorry for stabbing you.” She said, “I’m sorry for screaming at you. I mean it.”

Ochako blinks her eyes open.

Soft pinks and yellows flicker through her lashes, the pads of her fingers running through soft sand, her head resting in the granulated rock.

Wait. Sand?

Ochako’s eyes fly open with a gasp.

This isn’t her bed.

Instead, before her, the gentle lull of the ocean curls at shore, singing a marine hymn as the waters bounce with light.

The sky’s vast expanse was wiped clear, seemingly endless across its cloudless gradient.

It was sunset. Or, was it dawn? She couldn’t tell, no thanks to the whimsical fog over the horizon blurring the edges of her vision, and the distinct lack of sun in the bright sky. As much as her heart wanted to be distracted by the beautiful ocean, Ochako's logical side was on edge.

Because despite being at shore, she couldn’t smell the strong stench of seaweed, nor could she hear the laughter of a single child-- a sound usually accompanying the crashing waves on a beautiful day.

Even the wind was quiet, a mute force that sent her hair flying and her clothing rustled.

What should have been a cool breeze was instead a temperature-less, soundless gust of imitation dancing on her skin, arising goosebumps that weren’t from the cold.

Wiping the sand off her figure, Ochako stood with a wary expression.

Where the hell was she? Yesterday, before going to bed…

The UA dorms. Crying herself to sleep. The war.

Yes- just yesterday, she heard the faintest rumour that Himiko might still be alive… but it had been weeks since she heard any news.

Weeks since the war ended.

Weeks without knowing what happened to the girl that saved her.

Ochako hadn’t known whether she should cry in relief, or anger, sadness or fear- fear that it was nothing but false hope.

So she cried. She wailed into her pillow, muffling the sound so her already concerned friends couldn’t hear a thing… and now she’s woken up here.

… This had to be some kind of trick, right?

Ochako clears her throat, partially relieved that her voice remained intact in this strangely muted space. Because while the waves crashed with a resonating sound, everything else remained deathly quiet.

Still. Empty.

Until-

To her left, a muffled sob rang through the air like a wind chime.

Startled, Ochako’s head whips to her side, gasping at the sight of a figure she could’ve sworn hadn’t been there just a few minutes ago.

It couldn’t be… right?

No. She wouldn’t-- she couldn’t-- let herself be tricked by this illusion. But…

But to her left sits a girl, curled into a ball with her knees covering her face.

Her choppy blonde hair shadowed her eyes, cascading down her neck in messy clusters. Her chest stuttered with sobs. She wore an orange garment-- She was a prisoner.

And Ochako knew, before she could register what she was seeing, that the girl was Toga Himiko.

The girl wept silently, lifting her head to wipe her tears, freezing when she met eyes with the hovering brunette.

Ochako’s heart stopped.

And somehow, she knows that Himiko’s did, too. She feels it in the atmosphere, that their hearts became one for a few seconds, before the blonde croaked out a heartbreaking whisper.

“...Ochako?”

A single word. Her name. Yet it carried something more than either could say aloud.

A single breath, but Ochako could hear the disbelief in her dried voice, like a plant on the verge of death finding solace in a final douse of water, relieved, and accepting, that it will go no further.

Something in her broke.

“Himiko…?”

At the sound of her voice, Himiko darts up in a panic. Her eyes never leave Ochako’s.

A gust of silent wind swishes through the both of them, tears rolling down their cheeks as they look at one another.

Right before Ochako’s eyes, Himiko’s clothes morph from prison orange to her familiar school-girl-esque outfit.

Before she could cry out in surprise, she’s interrupted by a sharp pang to the heart.

“Ochako” Himiko sobbed, “Please, please don’t do this to me!”

“Himik- what’s wrong? And your clothes!”

Toga looks down in a frenzy.

“Nonono! Stop! I can’t do this anymore!” she exclaims, “I’ve gone insane! I’ve gone totally insane! Ochako, please just go away… I don’t wanna see you anymore!”

Himiko brings her hands up to her face, pulling her hair in front of her through hiccups.

Her knees wobble and she falls into the sand, curling into a ball to sob once more. Ochako was stunned at her outburst, her breath stuttering at Himiko’s heaving body.

She hesitantly sits by the girl's side, who leans away with a troubled whine.

“Y- hic - You’re not the real Ochako… g-go away. Stop p-pretending, stupid brain.”

Ochako freezes. Does Himiko think she is an illusion?

“I hate it, I hate it ” the blonde blabbers, “I wish Ochako w-was really here. I hate you I hate you I hate you-” she chants, seemingly to herself.

“Himiko-chan” she says softly, despite her heart-sinking, “Do you think I’m not real?”

“I know you’re not real.” the other glares.

The pain in her eyes was ugly. It was raw, angry. Ochako had seen that expression once, in the midst of battle ; but that had been before Toga Himiko had morphed as a person before her very eyes.

Because after that moment, the pure hatred in her eyes had shifted- and her face, it--

It did that.

Himiko softens her gaze, the odd lighting painting her features with a dreamy haze as she watches Ochako between her knees and bangs.

A deep-rooted sadness engulfs her pupils. “You still look like an angel through my madness, Ochako.” she whispers, “I wish you were really here.”

Himiko shrieks as a blur knocks her back into the sand, her body engulfed by wracking sobs as arms wrapped themselves around her.

The cries echoed against the waves, an isolating sound in the hazy landscape. Only instead of one, there were two breaths at the shoreline.

“Ochako…?” Himiko shakes, her fingers trembling on the other girl’s body. “I-I’m confused. I can feel you. I’m not- I’m not dead, am I? Am I dreaming? You’re not dead, right, Ochako? Please don’t be dead--!”

“No! I promise you, I swear I’m alive.” she reassures, “We're- We're like in a dream, or something. Himiko I- maybe you’re not real, maybe I’m imagining you, too, but…”

“A dream?” Himiko interrupts her, averting her eyes. She looks worse for wear.

It makes Ochako hesitate for a second.

“Yeah, a dream. Except-” she glances at the blonde, unsure what to make of her and the rapid buildup of misplaced hope in her own chest, “we’re both here. You and me, as we sleep. I can’t imagine we actually teleported to some beach…”

“But that would mean--”

“It would mean you’re alive!” Ochako tugs Himiko into a crushing embrace. “I’m sorry for being so excited… but I- you have no idea how long I’ve waited for news or… or anything.”

“I can’t believe this… I can’t believe I’m still alive. I can’t.”

“I can’t believe it either.” Ochako sighs, “I don’t think I could’ve lived without you, Himiko.”

“No! Don’t say that!”

The brunette's stomach stings, the ghost of Himiko's wound flaring up at her upset. “It’s true, and you know it.”

“NO!”

Ochako jumps at her outburst, her eyes stinging as she listens to Himiko's cutting words, “You don’t get it Ochako, you don’t! I wish I just died! I would’ve been happier because- because I chose to end my life there! I chose to die by your side instead of rotting in this fucking prison for the rest of my life! ” she screams.

Ochako opens her mouth to speak, but-

“I’m trapped. I thought that I finally had something good, and-and I did. For a single moment. I thought I could finish it on a good note, Ochako what do I do?” she wails, “Why can’t they just leave me to die?!”

By now, Toga had talked herself into a frenzy, her voice echoing on the shore of the endless beach, the situation having doused both girls into a state of helplessness.

She tries to break Himiko out of it-- Anything to make her feel okay again. Just like they had in those brief moments of trust (of love.)

Where the two had become nothing more than a pair of teenage girls that could call each other Himiko-chan and Ochako-chan, like the fate of Japan wasn’t on their shoulders- like they had not saved and wreaked havoc on each other’s lives; like there were no consequences.

Consequences they now had to face.

“Himiko!” Ochako tries. But what could she say after?

Himiko, I couldn’t live with myself if you died.

Himiko, don’t say that.

Himiko, they can’t leave you to die because that’s not right.

No. None of it was right. All of it felt comically selfish.

Pushing away her emotions, Ochako musters the words she knows to be true.

“Himiko”, she ends up saying, “you deserve to live.”

“But I don’t want to! I don’t wanna live anymore! Not like this!”

“I’ll… I’ll get you out of there.”

“STOP LYING!” she wails, “STOP! I don’t want it!”

Reduced to sobs, the blonde returns to her fetal position.

“I’m happy you’re alive.” she tries.

“Is it selfish t’say that I don’t care if you’d be sad. If-if I died?” Himiko murmurs, her cheeks squished between her knees, “I didn’ even th-think about if it’d mess y'up. I don’t care. I’m gunna be s-selfish about this, ‘gain.”

“That’s… that’s fine, Himiko.” Ochako’s heart squeezed. “But you’re with me now and I’m never letting you go again.” she whispered.

Himiko sniffles. “Well, now I care more, ‘cause I know you’ll be sad if I’m gone. Doesn’t mean I still wouldn’t die if I had the choice to.”

“It’s… It’s fine. I get it.”

“You don’t.”

Ochako hums. “Maybe I don’t fully, but… if I was in your situation I’d probably feel the same.” Himiko looks at her skeptically through red-rimmed eyes, and Ochako lets out a bittersweet laugh.

“Come on. You trust that I understand you, right?”

A moment of quiet passes before Himiko averts her eyes. “More than anyone.”

“Even the League?” Ochako questions genuinely.

“Maybe.”

The soft pastel sky casts a sheen of pinks on their skin, glittering against the ocean with ambiguous time of day. A silence falls over the girls. It feels like hours passed, both having calmed down, their worries temporarily washed away as they look at the horizon.

Ochako glances at Himiko, sucking in a quiet breath at the sight.

Even in the darkest moments, Himiko shone like a reflection on the water, her beauty a quiet treasure.

The dreaminess cast a filter over her round face, shadows and light carving the magnificence of her soft and sharp features. She looks ethereal.

Himiko glances back at her, softly tilting her head in Ochako’s direction. “You keep looking at me.”

Ochako blushes. “I can’t help it. You’re just so pretty.”

Himiko’s eyes widen, blushing in return. She looks away. It’s quiet again.

Ochako nearly kicks herself, before reminding herself that that probably wasn’t a bad reaction. Himiko, despite her looks, had probably not heard many compliments. It’s fine. She had nothing to be embarrassed about.

The ocean lulled forward and back, swishing on wet sand at a continuous rhythm. The sky had not changed an inch, a culmination of colors fading into the next in a hazy image.

“You’re weird.”

“... I know.”

Toga’s eyebrows furrowed as she smiled. Her body twisted to face Ochako’s, beaten up amidst the rubble.

“You’re kind of weird… Ochako” she rasped. Her hair was half undone, a perfect illusion of the girl she is and used to be. A villain. A child. The wound of Himiko’s own doing spilled crimson red from Ochako’s stomach, as she gasped for air.

…

“‘S even weirder that we’re like this now, though.”

What do you mean? Was Ochako’s first instinct, but she refrained from asking. She knew exactly what the girl meant. “Yeah.”

“It’s weird that I get to be your friend, even if it’s a dream.”

“This isn’t just some dream, Himiko.” she glances at the girl, as if to confirm they were on the same wavelength.

Himiko, on the other hand, grimaces.

“But is it? As far as I know, I’m hallucinating.” I’ve gone crazy. I’m just imagining you being here, I’m imagining being free. I wish I could be free.

All of which goes unspoken.

Ochako is silent.

As she grabs Himiko’s hand, the girl begins to tear up, a wary expression overtaking her face.

Ochako traces her skin gently, hoping her tears could transform into the smile she so dearly treasured once again. Only this time, she desperately wished she could keep it by her side.

Himiko was right, in a way. This dream… it isn’t real.

Ochako couldn’t feel the warmth of Himiko’s skin under her fingers, nor could the wind erect goosebumps on her skin like it should.

She didn’t burn under the sun, and she couldn’t figure out what Himiko smelled like. Nothing in the dream could bring her the senses of real life, yet she held onto it desperately, cherishing the other girls’ touch - her savior - under the cloudless pastel sky. For now, that was all she could ask for.

Tilting her head at Ochako, Himiko follows the brunette's lead and lays in the sand.

She tugs on Himiko’s hand, pulling it to wrap over her waist.

The blonde gives her a hesitant look, relaxing when Ochako shoots her a smile, and warily taking the hand splayed between their two bodies into her own.

Wordlessly, they melt into each other's arms on false sand, falling asleep hand-in-hand in the softness of the forgiving dream.

___

“...Listen, Ochako.” Himiko stood naked above her dying body.

Knife clutched in her slender hand, the sludge of her metamorphosis seeped down her pale skin. “The League of Villains will destroy everything. And once the dust settles, I know that world,” She crouched down to Ochako’s level, “Will be easier for me to live in.”

Ochako shook and twitched, her head blaring and her breaths coming in short inhales.

Her vision was blurry. She could barely think, barely register a thing, when Toga Himiko gently reached her hand forward.

“But…” She scooped a pitiful amount of blood, warm, vermillion and Ochako’s, and she slipped it into her mouth. Through her haze, she watched as Toga’s face morphed into her own, blonde hair melting into brown as she spoke.

“I was so happy to hear what you had to say. I know I said it’s live or die, the winner takes all…” Her transformation was already wearing out; Ochako’s face half melted off Toga’s, revealing the image of a girl Ochako used to be afraid of. “But the thought of a world without you? No. I don’t like that.”

Dazedly, Ochako noticed a familiar clicking sound ringing through the rubble, but she couldn’t recall where she’d heard it.

She groaned in pain as she writhed on the ground, blood spilling rapidly from her body.

Soon enough, she was going to pass out.

She was going to die.

Toga, who was crouched by her body, smiled softly with Ochako’s face. “And to show how genuine these feelings are…”

Ochako briefly felt something in her arm. Losing her breath and her ability to think, a last stretch though blared through her mind, nearly sending her into a panic.

No. Himiko wouldn’t- surely she wouldn’t-

“All my blood… is now yours to have.”

Himiko’s smile was warm and serene, her face split half and half between the two of them, blonde and brown hair spilling down her roots, their features merging into one- and for an instant, Ochako could forget what that girl was doing to herself.

It was then that Ochako felt the warm blood rushing back into her veins. The blood transfusion device Toga had once used to steal her blood was about to push her back to life.

A singular tear rolled down the blonde’s rosy cheeks. Her eyes refused to leave Ochako’s war-torn body. If Himiko did this it meant ….

“When I almost died, Jin saved me this way.” she said, “But since I’m out of Jin’s blood I gotta transform into you Ochako… ‘Cause if I can use someone’s else’s Quirk, my blood must turn into theirs too.” she adjusted the device on her own arm as it made a clicking sound.

“No… don’t….” Ochako rasped. Her eyes were falling shut. Himiko would die if she did this!

“Were you planning to visit me and make those blood donations till I die, him?”

(“I’ll give you my blood for the rest of our lives!”)

It was horrible, Ochako thought, as she panted on the ground.

The beautiful girl she had gotten through to tended to the wounds she inflicted, a resigned, yet content expression gracing her face.

Toga Himiko was going to give her life happily, to the person she loved.

Ochako sobbed as she protested.

Himiko smiled, and muttered softly about stitching her up. “You coulda been fine just catching villains, Ochako. Just eliminating the freaks from this world. Just doing the right thing like a good old hero. Yet-” She finally wavered.

The tears sprouted from Himiko’s eyes, her body weak from the blood she’d forcefully given. Her arms faltered as she fell by Ochako’s side, her hand reaching between their bodies.

Now it was two splayed out in a puddle of dark black-red, dried and staining the rubble of decay.

“You spared a thought for someone who hurt lots of your friends,” Himiko’s voice shook, her tears spilling over as she smiled at Ochako, “and who was out to stab you full of holes…”

Their faces were closer than ever, bloodied and bruised after their fight.

Himiko laid her head down and Ochako stared into her shockingly bright eyes, framed by heavy eyebags.

Toga looked at her like she found a treasure, as if she were in muted disbelief. Happy. She looked happy, too.

“You’re kinda weird…” She whispered through her tears, “Ochako.”

The brown haired girl couldn’t help the sob that wrecked through her. “You’re one to talk!” She wailed, almost petulantly, “You can’t do this!”

“I live and love as I please.” Himiko grinned tearfully.

The tube between the two was still pumping and Ochako could feel her limbs flow with new life. Her own blood, given by Himiko- who’s finally returned to being only herself.

Her blonde hair curled around their heads, kissing Ochako’ face as Himiko spoke. “So no, I can’t let you catch me- Just like how you can’t bear to let me get away.”

A classic hero, a classic villain.

And yet. “I’m sorry for stabbing you.” She said, “I’m sorry for screaming at you. I mean it.”

“Toya.. burnt down my old house for me. That normal house full of bad vibes. He made it go away for my sake.” Himiko pulled herself up and Ochako desperately followed her form.

“That made me happy but… even with the house gone, the bad stuff’s still in my heart.”

“You didn’t make it go away, Ochako.” She wanted to protest- to do anything- to stop her, but her fingers twitched at her side and laid limp.

Her body wouldn't listen.

It was the sports festival all over again, only this time it was someone's life on the line. Toga Himiko’s life. A life worth saving. A life like any other.

“And as painful as it was when you reached out and touched me… my heart felt so light.” Toga choked. Ochako was looking up at her like she was everything. Like she deserved everything. Her eyes lit up even as her eyelids drooped. “Like it could just float away.”

Her rich brown eyes flooded, refusing to believe Himiko would sacrifice herself this way. And yet.

“Thank you Ochako. You’ve made me… so happy. Truly, genuinely happy.”

“Hi..mi…ko!” Ochako cried.

(“Am I cute?” “The cutest girl in the whole world.” )

“Y….yes.” the blonde girl smiled, her breaths coming short as the gentle embrace of death finally wrapped her in its loving arms. Her fear was replaced with pure love. Pure joy.

Now, she could embrace Ochako as she parted, the girl falling into unconsciousness as Himiko accepted her end.

She had lived and loved as she pleased.

She was just a normal girl- with the cutest smile in the whole world.

Uraraka Ochako awakens with a gasp.

Clutching her chest that beat a thousand times per minute, she heaved with the memory of her dream.

Himiko was in her dream. She was alive. She is devastated to not have died… but selfishly, Ochako could leap for joy.

She needs to see Himiko… in real life. She would do anything.

Toga Himiko awakens with a gasp.

Her heart beat a thousand times per minute, her cries echoing against the prison walls at the cruel memory of her dream.

Ochako was in her dream. She seemed happy to see her. Himiko had gotten so desperate.

She misses her family, the League.

She misses the person she loves. She would do anything for this crazed loneliness to be over…. If death were to take her now, she could finally be at peace.

____

Ochako couldn’t think straight anymore.

Not that she could, recently, but she felt bad for Mr. Aizawa. That he was teaching them after a war had just passed was beyond her, that he could even muster the energy and willpower to get out of bed was admirable.

Her gratitude for her teacher went beyond words. But she still struggles in class these days.

Everyone did, to be fair.

Todoroki looks lost. Healed, in a way, but something changed.

She couldn’t imagine what it was like, as she herself was rattled enough looking in on his family second hand. He was unbelievably strong, but ever since the war, too many things have clicked about his behavior.

Now, Ochako couldn't help the burst of protectiveness that flared in her chest when she thought about the boy.

Iida, on the other hand, seems more mature. Aware.

If anyone had changed the least outwardly, Ochako could say it was him- because he was already always prepared, caring, and dutiful in a way many of her classmates weren’t. He had always cared. Now, he just cares a whole lot more.

Kyouka lost half her quirk, and she’s obviously disoriented- but she fought well, and Ochako couldn’t help but admire her strength.

Tsuyu is level headed as always, but sometimes at night-time, she’d hear a soft knock on her door, awaiting a night of crying and makeshift comfort.

Yaomomo is paranoid, Bakugou’s death having rattled her … and Bakugou was… quiet.

He looks softer, and the past few weeks once again reminding her that he’s a kid as much as they are.

They were all just kids. Everyone was rattled.

No one was going to be okay after this.

And Deku .... Deku looks like he could be better.

(That was an understatement.

He looked broken. Lost.

He hardly spoke, nor smiled.

Ochako’s own heart was in the same place, but she had a newfound determination to see Himiko.

Deku’s soulless expression scared her, but she didn’t know what to do this time.

Sometimes, she caught Bakugou’s eye, who seemed to be thinking the same thing.

Sometimes, she wonders what’s going on between the two, because something has shifted between their sensitive relationship once again. Only this time, it felt as if a final fuse was about to go off.)

Her thoughts drifted to Himiko, and she sighed aloud in the classroom.

No one batted an eye, because she does that often nowadays.

Only this time, she feels a bit better knowing Himiko isn’t dead.

She was grateful that Mr. Aizawa didn’t say anything when she couldn’t answer his question. She felt sick when her friends whispered about her, concerned, and flitted their gazes to her tired visage, wondering when things would be okay again.

Today, she waited until class was over to ask her teacher a question.

Mr. Aizawa was about to walk out, scanning his surroundings, until a brief flicker of surprise crossed his expression.

“Uraraka.”

“Sensei.”

“Do you have something you want to ask me?” he rasps, “I’m open to stay, but I have about 20 minutes before my meeting starts. Apologies.”

“No, no don’t worry about that,” she laughs, “I just, uhm.”

How does she word this? I had a dream about the villain girl that tried to kill me multiple times? I made friends with her and I want to visit her in prison? Ah, fuck it.

“I want to see Toga Himiko.” she finishes by saying.

Aizawa’s eyes widened further, his tired expression vanishing for a split-second.

Then, he brings his hand up to his face with an exasperated sigh, massaging his temples.

A bit of annoyance trickles into Ochako’s fatigue. She is serious about this.

Aizawa, naturally, notices. He apologizes quickly, sighing once again. “Just a few days ago, you seemed to not be in the know about her situation. What makes you so sure about this, I could never guess, but I’m concerned about your eagerness to see this criminal.”

“She’s our age! And she saved my life!” pause. “...Sorry Mr. Aizawa. Didn’t mean to yell.”

“It’s fine, Uraraka.” his sighs were endless, “But promise me this- you’re aware that what she did was wrong? And you’re willing to hold her accountable for her actions?”

“Obviously!”

“Calm down. I’m merely asking.”

“Sorry.” she says meekly.

“I am technically not supposed to tell you this but I trust you won’t do anything stupid. You cannot tell your friends either.” he adds with a subtle glare of red, “Got it?”

“Yep!”

“Good. Toga Himiko is a product of the old hero system, society, child abuse, quirk discrimination and the like. The path she chose to take is unforgivable, but explainable, if we are to take into account age, social status, and the general lack of aid offered to support marginalized peoples. However, that does not excuse her actions.”

Ochako hummed in response, quietly (and selfishly) relieved that her teacher understood this part of Himiko’s story.

“As of now, we are currently witnessing a societal shift. But things don’t change in a day. As much as we idealize a new future, many authorities do not understand the root of criminals’ actions and motivations-- excluding psychopathy and the like-- and ignore the evidence of discrimination and abuse as a catalyst to criminal behavior. Despite many specialists in criminology having proof suggesting otherwise.”

“They just completely dehumanize them.”

“Indeed.” he hums, “It’s not to say what they did was okay. But denouncing someone as pure evil for petty theft is something our society should never have come to. It’s time we deal with things properly.”

“But that’ll take forever…” Ochako sighed. She’d come to her own realizations this past year, most of which align with her teacher’s thoughts. However…. “I knew it’d take time for things to go back to normal but it all feels a bit hopeless right now, Sensei.” she confesses.

“Yes.” he grumbles, “But there is no ‘going back to normal’. I’m sure you understand, Uraraka.”

Ochako’s response went unspoken between the two of them. For they were teacher and student, but in this moment, under the window’s newly casted daylight, they were both veterans. Witnesses of the same war- victims of the same disaster.

They didn’t meet each other’s eyes.

“So does this mean I get to see her?”

The birds tweeted from the window frame into the classroom.

Aizawa replied.

“Yes”

“Meet me in five days at the teachers’ lounge.”, he said. “You’re a good kid, Uraraka. You haven’t let me down yet. So don’t start now. ”

___

After a few days, Ochako knew had learnt many things about Himiko.

After the initial outburts, they had rifted into comfortable, sometimes hesitant conversation. But they talked about everything, cried a fair few times, and Ochako settled with the feeling that this was no ordinary dream.

She wondered if Himiko thought the same, or simply felt deluded, but the hero student swore to talk to her about it... in real life, when she got to visit. Which was tomorrow.

Up to now, however, Ochako's conversations with Himiko have been insightful. Ochako knew her favourite:

1. Color (red),
   
   “Lemme guess, blood?”
   
   Himiko pouts.
2. 
   Animal (cats, vampire bats),
   
   “Ooh- ooh, lemme guess-”
   “Stooop”
   “Vampire, like blood?”
   
   Himiko pouts.
   Ochako giggles. “I can see cats, too. You’re kinda like one. All swift and coy.”
   
   
   
3. K-Pop band (Loona, Dreamcatcher)
   
   “So you’re queer.”
   
   “Oh my god, shut up!” Himiko laughed. “Look at you Hero, generalizing people.” she snickered, “not that you’re wrong about me, that is.”
   
   Ochako rolled her eyes playfully. She knew that already.
   
   
   
4. Amusement park ride (spinning teacups)
   
   “Huh. I’ve… actually never been to an amusement park. My parents couldn’t exactly afford it, which is why we were often at the beach around my house instead.”
   
   Himiko’s eyes widened. “Really?! I have to take you, then!”
   
   One day.
   
   “One day.” Ochako smiled.
   
   (The next time someone asked Ochako about her favorite ride, she answered “spinning teacups” in place of whatever else she randomly chosen in the past.
   
   They had looked at her like she was insane, and Ochako, amusedly, wondered what the hell kind of ride Himiko enjoyed to warrant that reaction.)
   
   
   
5. And even, her favourite time of day (Ochako time)
   
   “Ochako time?”
   
   “Mhm,” Himiko smiled proudly, “When I get to see you!”
   
   Ochako’s heart melted, rather overwhelmed at the affection. “I.. I guess I like Himiko time, too.”
   
   “But is it your faaavourite?”
   
   “Usually, for me it’s sunset… but Himiko time and sunset together sounds nice. We should watch it together for real, sometime.”
   
   Himiko smiled, the false oceanic wind brushing her hair out of her face.
   
   She was the picture of grace, as she repeated a quiet “Yeah, sometime.”
   
   One day. )

It made Ochako beyond happy to learn about Himiko, but recently she was caught in a realm of self doubt.

She hoped, desperately, that it was not her mind playing games on her. She sat on her matress, staring at the ceiling and silently prayed that the Himiko in her dreams was not an illusion, but a projection of the girl who saved her life. 

Because it all felt too real. 

(“I’m scared.” said Himiko, her head on Ochako’s shoulder. Her blonde hair cascaded down Ochako’s front as they watched the whimsical, ever-shifting sky.

Ochako replied to her softly.

"Why?”

“What if I don’t see you again?”

There it was-- the crushing doubt. The fear. But Ochako wouldn’t let it bring them down; she wouldn’t allow it.

“Just believe you will.” she said, “If you don’t believe in yourself… believe me. Put the blame on me. Because if we don’t see each other again, it means I didn’t try hard enough to see you. So please, trust me.”)

Tomorrow, she will finally be able to see her.

Ochako feels suffocated by the dullness of the grey walls.

The sky was unattainable, the concrete dry and isolating. She shivered at the thought of being stuck in here for life, causing a self-disgusted emotion to rise to the apples of her cheek. She wasn’t the one stuck here. She couldn’t complain.

Thinking of Himiko, who in those brief moments had been so full of life, being constrained within these draining iron bars forever well… It made her sick.

Life had just begun for the both of them.

The feeling of a hundred lifetimes may have fleeted past them during the war, but the simple truth was that they were just girls. Ochako’s stomach grumbled unhappily at the memory of her words.

“You have so much ahead of you, Ochako. I…on the other hand...”

(Ochako had fumbled with her clothing. She wore something casual- just some pink shorts and a white tee.

She debated putting in her star earrings this morning, resorting to slapping her cheeks to remind herself that this was not a date.

She was going to prison.

Well, Aizawa’s taking her to visit Himiko in prison.

Which she’s sure the other girl isn’t aware of. Aizawa was clear with his expectations: that she remained vigilant, stayed by his side, and didn’t do anything stupid. He looked like he regretted his decision, but he had done a lot to allow an audience with a member of the League.

Sometimes, Ochako wondered if her teacher’s strict convictions conflicted with his deep-rooted empathy, especially when she saw hesitation in denial on the man’s rugged face. He looked tired, and anytime he looked uncertain the whole of Class-1A… 2A, felt on edge. She’d make sure to thank him later.)

They arrive at Toga's door, and the hero student steels herself with a shaky inhale.

Exhale.

And, as soon as Ochako walks in, they make eye contact.

It was like the snap of a magnet: both girls sensed, somehow, the impossibleness of their instant mutual understanding.

You were in my dreams.

I know you remember.

The topaz of Himiko’s eyes saw light in her shock, the girl shuffling to her feet as far as her restraints would let her. “Ochako?!”

The girl held a crazed, questioning look in her eyes, like Ochako was the oasis triggered by her desperation.

She tugs against her restraints in the brunette’s direction and her teacher was immediately on edge.

“Uraraka-!”

Jumping like she had just noticed the other man, Himiko shrinks back into herself. Ochako holds her hand up towards her teacher.

Himiko looks like a frightened animal. It isn’t right. Taking in a breath, Ochako walks a few steps towards her.

She kneels before the blonde. “Hey.” she whispers with a small smile. “I thought I’d give you a vis- umph!”

Himiko jumped into her arms. And oh, how Ochako had needed this.

The realness of Himiko’s skin against her own felt like a treasure. The warmth between their bodies radiated with life, and Ochako’s arms shakily wrapped around the blonde’s waist.

Cherishing one another, the two girls rested their heads on each other's shoulders. Momentarily, Ochako squeals in pure joy - the same unadulterated feeling she had rolling downhill in her childhood.

A quiet shuffle from behind interrupts their moment; Himiko stiffens and nearly pulls back, but Ochako senses this and pulls her back in twice as hard. I’m not letting you go.

It’s quiet, if not for the sobs emitting from the prisoner of this very chamber.

Ochako’s heart squeezes. It’s so dull here. So lonely.

She can’t imagine what it’s been like for Himiko, and quietly, she understands her choice to die with Ochako to evade imprisonment. She sighs; “I’m never letting you get away, now.”

“Oh yeah? ‘S not like I can go anywhere…” Himiko sniffles. “How the hell’d you even get in here Ochako? I thought you weren’t coming to visit me… I-I thought I was going insane!”

Pulling back, their eyes met in an instant, both girls remembering Himiko’s troubles in the dream.

“I’m … I’m real now” the brunette said, hopefully quiet enough that her teacher didn’t question anything.

Ochako’s knees hurt like hell against the concrete, but the flicker of hope in Himiko’s eyes was worth it. “They… They didn’t tell me about your condition. I thought you were dead.”

“Kinda wish I was.”

Pang. “I'm happy you’re still here.”

Himiko buries her head in Ochako’s clavicle. “Yeah, yeah…”

Ochako’s brows furrow. Hesitant, her hand climbs up to tuck the blonde’s hair behind her ear. “I’m serious, Himiko. You know I’m serious.”

“I do.” she replies softly. The side of Himiko's face is finally visible, her unruly hair making way for a most beautiful profile. “Heh. You even dream about me, Ochako-chan~ Gotten over your crush on Izuku-kun, have-ya?”

Aizawa cleared his throat as Himiko batted her eyelashes at her.

Ochako’s face was on fire.

“W-W-”
“Uraraka.”
“Y-Yes, Sensei!”

Himiko giggles and makes no effort to pull herself out of Ochako’s embrace.

Her teacher groans, running his hand over his face. “I should’ve known…”

(Throughout the whole… thing… Aizawa Shouta could not muster strength to interrupt.

He’d been on guard, he swears- wary, careful to watch the young villainess in case things went south.

But he soon found himself thanking everything that his student was not facing him, for he could not have hidden his expression of confusion, horror, then understanding from either child.

It was an uncomfortable situation to bear witness to, as a teacher, and he did not care for the little brats’ relationships to one another. In fact, he avoided knowing anything about it like the damn plague.

But this … this was kind of his business, seeing as Uraraka (Uraraka! Really? He should’ve known) had found herself in a rather… intimate, but mutual, friendship (sure) with a member of the former League of Villains.

Something in him protested, something in him wanted to yell that it wasn’t safe- it was wrong- and yet he could see that Toga Himiko, for all she stabbed the ones she ‘loved’, did not show any signs of aggression towards his student.

In fact, she was docile. Vulnerable.

It made him think of his own relationship to the League-- his once best friend turned Nomu. Perhaps he should be happy for the kid. But at the same time he was hesitant; because when the hell did this happen?

He groaned internally for the hundredth time. What is it with his class this year?)

Through Ochako’s flustered sputtering, Himiko catches her attention with a sigh.

“You know, maybe it won’t be so bad… if I get to see you.”

The blonde smiled sadly.

Beneath the fluorescent lights of her cage, Toga Himiko became a transparent liar.

As soon as they’d left Himiko’s enclosure, Aizawa swiveled in her direction. The light landed cinematically on his face, carving the very picture of intimidation.

Ochako gulped.

Aizawa raised a brow. “What was that all about?”

“I-It’s not what you think, really.” she huffed, crossing her arms.

“... Sure.”

They walk out.

“Kid.” Aizawa said, “Promise me one thing.”

“...”

“I can see you care about the girl. But don’t let this get to your head. She is not your responsibility, and you cannot change the world in an instant.”

Ochako scoffed lightly. “I know, Sensei… but would it be so bad to let me be happy?”

“However,” he continued forcefully with a tired glance, “I am happy to help if ever you need it. I am your teacher, you are my responsibility. Please come to me if anything arises… Heroes can’t do everything on their own.”

Suddenly, Ochako felt guilty.

“... Thank you, Sensei. And sorry. It’s just been… difficult for me.” she faded into a whisper, “I really do appreciate you taking me here. It means a lot to me.”

With the ghost of a smile on his face, her teacher replies.

“I know.

 Now, let’s get back.”

____

That night, they dreamt again.

Rolling against the shore, the shallow waves reflect the haze of colors in the sunless sunset sky. As the wind rustles their clothes, pink and yellow approach each other from either end of the sandy scape.

Slowly, Toga Himiko comes into view.

Ochako sighs a breath of relief, taking in the liveliness of the girl’s skin, her messy staple hairstyle, and how she glows under the hopeful daze. To take this bird away from the sky was cruel, for she shone the brightest in freedom.

“Waxing poetry about me, or do I have something on my face?” Himiko giggles, latching onto Ochako’s hands.

She follows by pulling the girl in and swinging her arms over her shoulders, jumping into a hug. “Eeeeee heehee!!!! I’m so happy, Ochako-chan! I can’t believe I get to see you here again!”

Ochako giggles in turn, endeared by Himiko’s enthusiasm.

It felt nice to not have people watching them. “I’m happy too, Himiko-chan.”

Himiko squeals again, lunging forward and knocking the two into the sand. Ochako yelps in brief shock, rolling through the momentum before blinking.

She laughs and pulls Himiko further into her embrace. “Can’t believe it either. I just get to be with you here, and we can do whatever we want.”

“Mhm,” Himiko grins as she lifts her body half off the sand, “And I can do whatever I want to you here, Ochako!”

A furious blush flares up Ochako’s face before she grumbles.

“Don’t say that…”

Himiko tilts her head. “Whynat?”

“You have to know how it sounds!” she squeaks.

Himiko grins deviously. “Nuh-uh, I don’t.”

Ochako was tomato red.

Himiko being literally this close to sitting on her lap was not helping.

“...But… but you do know how it sounds for real though, right? I’m not just being…”

“Ugh, Oooobviously I do! I’m just messing with you, silly.” Himiko forfeits, rolling her eyes dramatically, “Plus I’m like, probably older than you!”

“Huh? I thought you were my age!”

“Ohyah, I mean, I’m definitely somewhere around there. Can’t remember my exact birthday though… I’m probably a few months older than you, like Izuku-kun! Or maybe I’m your senior… Eh, ‘s not that important.”

“You don’t know your own birthday…?”

“I think I’m born in September?...” Himiko trails off, “That’s not important, Ochako! I just wanna enjoy my time with you! We have a way to be together so let’s not fill it with sad stuff, okay?”

Ochako sighs. “Okay. But we can talk about anything you want, ok?”

Himiko nods enthusiastically, her hair falling into Ochako’s face.

Himiko, nearly lying on top of her, looks…. beyond pretty.

Ochako wants to slap herself. Why couldn’t she just be normal about Himiko?

NORMAL!!!

(“You’re weird, Ochako-chan”)

She tries not to think of the last time Himiko met her gaze from this position, as they laid in the rubble for what could’ve been their last moments. Shaking off a shiver and the ghost of deep, crimson blood soaking her body, Ochako tilts her head to one side and avoids the girl’s eye.

But it’s impossible to ignore her following words.

“Y’know Ochako '' she says “I… I really do wanna be with you.” Himiko interlocks their fingers, leaning in closer. “Sometimes,” she whispers, “I can’t help but think about what my life would be like if I knew you sooner.”

“Himiko…”

“You’re like an angel. Or a goddess.”

Ochako blushes. “You’re exaggerating.”

“You’re selling yourself short. Really.”

Himiko’s soft voice enveloped the two of them, the horizon nothing more than a blur in either’s vision.

They saw only each other.

Every single pore on eachother’s faces, the dry softness of their lips- their wavering eyes.

Ochako’s lashes fluttered as she stared at the beauty before her, taking her free hand and tucking the blonde’s hair behind her ear like she had that day.

“Maybe to you I’m an angel, but you’re…” Her hand slipped past her ear and down her jaw, cupping Himiko’s cheeks with the light pads of her fingers. “You’re beyond beautiful” she whispered.

Himiko’s eyes watered with clarity, but she hesitated.

Her eyes glanced down Ochako’s face, who held her so gently, a quiet question in the darkness of her pupil.

Ochako’s breaths were running short, her heart thundering against her chest.

As Himiko’s strands fell into both their faces, Ochako’s pounding heart served as a tune to their closeness.

Their eyes meet. Warm brown and striking yellow.

Then, despite everything that’s happened the past few months, despite their fears and insecurities, their shared hesitation became certainty.

A gentle breeze passed between them.

And then, their lips met in a soft kiss.

A new, overwhelming, warm wave of sensations flood their bodies.

Ochako didn’t know what to do with her hands, and it seems Himiko didn’t either, because they stayed on her chest… Her lips were so incredibly soft.

Ochako feels dizzy with all the blood rushing to her head, her mind reeling.

They both pull back shakily.

A breath.

And meeting each other wordlessly, they surge back in.

The kiss seared against their lips, a desperate, inexperienced display of passion. Ochako ran her hand down Himiko’s arm, sighing into the girl’s mouth with a newfound will. Himiko kisses like she wants to bite, and they both stop to breathe into each other’s space.

“‘D-Dunno if it’s obvious- but you’re my first kiss” pants Ochako, her hands gliding further down the blonde’s ribcage in a loving caress.

“‘Think you’re pretty good for a first-timer.” Himiko says breathlessly.

She swings her leg over Ochako’s middle to fully sit in her lap. “Not that I have anyone to compare you to that is~”

Ochako’s eyes blink wildly, a proud feeling blooming in her chest. “No way!”

“You think the League’s some kinda whorehouse, ‘Chako?”

That proud feeling was quickly stomped.

“Himikooooo” she whines, trying to hide the fact that she almost laughed, “That is totally not what I meant! You-You’re just so stunning I can’t believe-”

“Can’t believe no one’s snagged me up before this? Hmph! I know. I’m just that amazing.”

“You really are.” Ochako smiles fondly.

Himiko giggles. “I like how sappy you are. Keep it coming!”

“Mmm… As much as I’d love to compliment you endlessly… I would love it if we kissed some more, too.”

Finally- finally- it is Himiko’s turn to be flustered. “I-yeah, I’d love that, too.”

“Good,” Ochako whispers, before pulling her in for another kiss.

Himiko’s entire body leant onto hers, holding her face and pushing them back into the sand as their faces slotted together.

Their kisses became deeper, the warmth and wetness of their soft lips against each other heightened, and Ochako could swear by kissing Himiko for the rest of her life.

One hand on the blonde’s hip and another by her jaw, Ochako traces slow circles with the thumb, matching their rhythm.

Himiko makes a satisfied sound, tilting her head further and further into Ochako’s own, their noses brushing against each other’s, their tongues licking over each others’ mouths. They are like day and night, a sweet horizon of sun and moon melting into one another, a smelting passion molding their bodies in a dance.

Himiko deepened the kiss as she pushed Ochako to the sand, her own hands running down Ochako’s body, touching and prodding and feeling.

She could live off Ochako’s warmth, who gasped as Himiko bit her lip and slipped her tongue in boldly.

Her actions were reciprocated, as Ochako didn't back down, and they met in a messy middle, fueled only by want.

And so it went, for a while.

They slowed and they sped up, they backed off and they met again, with more intensity, more passion, more to explore.

They giggled between kisses and talked between each other, their hearts magnetic in the dreamscape.

It was endless- addicting.

They gasped into each other’s mouths, the brunette carefully slipping her hand under Himiko’s top. “This okay?” she mumbles.

“Mmm….” Himiko’s forehead rested on hers. “You can touch anywhere you want, Ochako.”

“Anywhere?”

“Anywhere. I’ll let you do anything y’wanna do to me.” she spoke between the heat of their breaths.

Ochako’s stomach scorched with heat, and her grip tightened on the girl’s waist. Her eyes found Himiko’s blazing topaz gaze.

She was met with pure, unadulterated trust. Desire. Love.

Words prickled at her mind, but in the moment, her breaths were too heavy to formulate anything intelligible. So she just let out a breathy, ‘Kay” before giving the girl a peck.

As she pulls back, Himiko tries to follow, confused at the short kiss. She squeaks as Ochako flips them over, her back hitting the sand with a quiet “oof!”.

“All good, Himiko-chan?”

“...Heh. Never better.”

Ochako leans in with a smile. “I’m glad.”

Instead of kissing her like expected, she surges into the girl’s neck, peppering light kisses across her throat. She began sucking on her skin as the girl below her gasped in surprise.

Honestly, the sounds she let out as she went on flustered Ochako beyond words.

She loves hearing Himiko.

She couldn’t help but want more of her, and in this daze of the rolling tides and the soundless, endless expanse of beach, it feels possible to hold her forever.

“That’s not fair, Ochako!” Himiko pouts, “I didn’t know we were allowed to do that!”

Ochako laughs. “If you ask, maybe I’ll let you do anything, too.”

“You mean it?”

“Mhm. I mean it.”

“So…” Himiko averts her gaze, a familiar hesitation overtaking the confidence that had flowed so boldly in her veins. “Would it be okay if I… No, it’s fine-”

“Hey,” Ochako interrupts softly, “Whatever it is you wanna say, I wanna hear it. If I don’t want you to do something I'll just tell you. Promise.”

“Mkay…”

“So?”

“Could I bite you?”

Ochako shouldn’t have been surprised, but she couldn’t help her eyes widening by a margin.

Himiko must’ve taken it as a bad sign though, because she awkwardly tried to shuffle off Ochako’s lap. “Himiko, stop that. I’m okay with it. I thought you knew that?”

The blonde freezes. “Well, I dunno, maybe you changed your mind.”

“I didn’t. Go ahead.”

“What?”

“Go ahead. Bite me.”

Himiko blinks at her like she hung the stars in the sky. Then, slowly, with her eyes darting back and forth between the hero’s eyes and face-- as if searching for judgment--, she leans in.

And bites Ochako’s neck.

Her teeth sink into the brunette, who throws her head back with a groan at the piercing sensation, tremors wracking through her body. Himiko sighs blissfully, licking up her bite and throat.

It feels… really good. Ochako’s face is surely beet red. Blood red even. She feels the heat simmering in her face, all over her body, but before she acts of anything Himiko comes back up and determinedly scans her flushed face.

Apparently satisfied, she leans back in.

And bites Ochako’s cheek.

Ochako blinks.

It’s a sweet, soft little bite.

A little thank you, or even --

“I love you.”

The whisper against her cheeks flitters on her skin, unreal in all the senses.

Ochako’s heart flares, a panicked internal scream ringing in her brain as the girl’s confession sinks in. 

In the warm light beside the glistening sea, it feels like no answer but ‘I love you, too’ seemed appropriate.

But that was not their story, was it?

Ochako’s feelings-- she wasn’t sure they reached love, not yet. Her heart pounds in her chest, anxiety flooding her every sense as she meets Himiko’s eyes.

Does she love Himiko?

Should she say it back, even if she wasn't sure?

“It’s ok, Ochako. You don’t have to say it back. I’m happy just to be with you.” Himiko says.

The sincerity in her voice douses the panicked girl with relief, and a bit of guilt, for not reciprocating the intensity of her feelings. “But promise me…when you do fall in love with me, you gotta say it, kay? I wanna hear it. Make it super duper romantic, too”

Ochako laughs softly. “Of course. I’m sorry I can’t say it back now…”

“It’s fine.”

“Promise?”

“Pinky promise!”

They giggle, their heads both falling into the sand, casting halos of choppy hair. They gravitate towards one another, their faces ever close through their shared smiles.

“I never want this dream to end.” The blonde confesses.

Ochako agrees. Through the melancholy, she holds Himiko closer.

“Stay with me for a while?”

“Of course.”

And so, the smile never leaving her face, Ochako kisses her soundly, praying that one day she will kiss Himiko in real life, too.

Toga Himiko wakes up in a daze.

She flusters at the memories of ‘last night’, kicking her feet and hiding her face in the pillow. Ochako and her kissed. And it was real, and they both knew it was real!

Today, Himiko thinks, she will ignore the uncomfortable fluorescent lights of her cell. She will ignore the deep-rooted sadness- loneliness- of being without her family, without her freedom. And instead, she’ll relish in the warmth of the dreamy, unreal breeze that passed through their clothing, the gentle caress of Ochako’s hands and the thundering beat of her heart.

Uraraka Ochako wakes up in a daze.

She darts up at the memories of the dream, covering her rapidly heating face by hiding her face in her hands. Himiko and her kissed. The softness of her skin felt so real, and knowing it was a mutually remembered experience would’ve had her floating to her ceiling if not for her preventive sleeping gloves.

Today, Ochako thinks, she will do her best not to drift away. Unintentionally, she will stifle the troubles she’s been facing these past few months- the weeks without news, worrying endlessly about the League’s treasured rose. Instead, she’ll relish in the beauty of their shared heartbeats, the lull of waves quieted by their gentle conversation, and the thundering tremor as their lips met a hundred times over.

_____

Lunchtime had arrived, and her friends had inevitably caught onto her shift in demeanor.

“You’re acting weird today, Ochako-chan, '' croaks Tsuyu, ever the blunt personality. Kyouka nudges her (not very subtly, by any means) and hisses something into the shorter girl’s ear.

Yaomomo clears her throat with a sincere smile.

“That is not to say weird is bad, so-to-say. We did however notice a change in your behaviour, and while I personally do not agree with questioning you about it, the girls and I were rather curious. So, we thought to ask you if anything happened?”

“Whaaaat, haha- I mean what would’ve even happened!”

The table is silent. Huh, maybe Ochako wasn’t as convincing as she gave herself credit for.

“Listen girls,” she says, “I appreciate the concern but I swear! I’m okay! Nothing happened.”

Mina narrows her eyes skeptically, and Ochako prays that she hadn’t spotted the blush threatening to climb up her neck.

“Uhhh-huh, and in what world should we believe that, miss girl?!” yells Tooru, waving her arms around.

Mina joins in (oh dear), “Yup! Totes agree with Tooru. What is up with you, hun!”

Ochako wants to put her head in her hands, remembering Kaminari’s unfortunate comment a few classes ago.

(“Woah, what’s up with you this morning? You are totally glowing!” he says, holding up his stack of books with a pen in his mouth. “Did’ya get laid or something?”

He obviously meant it as a joke.

But Ochako was easily flustered, and remembering the events of her dream, her face slowly pinkened. As Kaminari’s eyes widened, she frantically waved her arms across her chest. “Nononono, it’s not that!”

“I dunno, looks to me like- ! ” His excited tone was cut off by the bell, and Ochako sighed in relief, fanning off the heat from her cheeks.

Safe to say she avoided the boy for the rest of the day.

As she would continue to for the remainder of the week.)

Now, perhaps praying wasn’t enough, because even Kyouka is giving her the weird eye.

“You can tell us, you know. We won’t judge.”

“Nothing, it’s nothing!”

Anxiety thrums through her veins, skyrocketing her blood pressure.

Okay, the whole Kaminari thing was bad enough, but she couldn’t possibly tell them about the dreams- they’d think she’s totally insane!

What does she even say?

“Ochako-”

“No really it’s nothing-”

“We just wanna h--”

“I said it’s nothing, I swear!”

Pause.

And there it was.

The odd tension that came and went between her and her friends, ever since the war ended.

Maybe Ochako was at the center of it but- but she was shaken. Everyone knew it had messed her up like crazy not knowing what happened to Himiko. She didn’t tell them everything, she couldn’t (she didn’t dare)- but her friends were not stupid. They could tell something was up.

Yaomomo spoke up first. “We’re sorry, Uraraka-san. We didn’t mean to overwhelm you, but we know it’s been especially hard for you considering…” her voice becomes quieter, pausing only briefly as she considers her following words. “When we saw you today, we wondered if it had something to do with- with her. We thought…”

“... Maybe something happened?” finished Tsuyu.

She couldn’t say a word, or Aizawa would kick her ass.

But apparently her face said it all.

“Ohmygod, wait what did you learn?!” Mina exclaims.

Ochako groans. Perfect. Just the situation she was trying to avoid. She grumbles into her elbows. “Nothing.”

“You’re lying~” teases Toruu. Despite the light tone, Ochako can tell her friends are-- and have been-- walking on eggshells around her. She hates being the reason for that but she gets why.

“I can’t tell you.”

“Why not?”

“I just… I can’t.”

She’ll leave it up to her friends to interpret that. But Yaomomo, smart as ever, narrows her eyes for a split second, before returning to her impassive expression. She briefly scans Ochako’s face, offering her a smile alongside her following words.

“Well, Uraraka-san, please know that my dorm is open to you all tonight, if you have anything else you’d like to share. Or if you only wish to talk. Speaking between friends can be an unprecedented antidote to whatever may fuel your worries.”

“Yeah, what she said!”

“Are we also invited, Yaomomo?”

Momo blushes and covers her mouth at the absurd question. “Why of course! Unless Uraraka-san is uncomfortable with it?”

“No, no it’s fine. I… guess I'll take you up on that offer.” It couldn’t hurt, right?

The black haired girl’s eyes twinkled, her sweet, genuine smile lighting up the room. Several stopped to stare, Ochako and her friends just as enraptured by Yaomomo’s adorable expression.

“Wonderful! I shall prepare some tea for tonight!”

Yeah, no. It absolutely could hurt.

Ochako claws at the sheets harmlessly, the 2-A girls staring her down patiently.

“If this is about Toga Himiko…” starts Tsuyu. Kyouka sends her a little glare and pokes her with her earphone-jack.

“What? Most of Ochako-chan’s personal worries seem to stem around her. Personally though, I think you should let her go.” she redirects this last part to the brunette, who bristles at the comment.

Kyouka groans. “This is exactly what we wanted to avoid.”

“‘We?” Ochako questions, “Who exactly is we?”

It’s quiet in Yaomomo’s dorm, the wispy steam of their freshly poured tea dancing into the silence.

“Us, like, the rest of us.” says Toruu, albeit a bit shakily.

“You guys talked about me behind my back?”

“... We’re worried about you Ochako. Of course we talked about you!” snaps Kyouka.

She honestly didn’t know what to say. “I’m feeling better today, so why is it such a big deal if my worries are about Himiko?”

Tsuyu flinches at the casual usage of the murderer’s name. “‘Cause if it weren’t about Toga you’d still be moping, Ochako. It’s obvious that it has something to do with her and we have no idea what it is. Won’t you let us in?”

Ochako knows how Tsuyu was with these kinds of things. But the brutal honestly does hurt a little bit-- it feels too raw, and Ochako feels too immature to be able to handle all this as it’s coming to her. She always feels like she has to justify herself, when she can’t just hide behind her smile.

Sometimes, she hates that her friends can see right through her. Other times she’s grateful, knowing she’d be miserable without anyone to confide in.

“It’s-it’s just-- I have some things I can’t say-- but lately…” she starts.

“...Lately?”

“I-I've been having dreams.”

“Oh girl…” Mina sympathizes.

“No- they’re… they’re not nightmares, though. They’re real.”

“Ochako…”

“I know how it sounds! I’m not crazy! B-But-”

“Is this why you felt better today? Because you had a good dream?” the pink girl asks, a skeptical look on her face.

“I mean… you make it sound…” Ochako averts her gaze, blushing at the memory. “It’s not like that, I just…” When she glances back at the other girls, they all look different levels of sad and horrified.

“Uraraka-san… perhaps Asui is right. It may be best for you to move on from Toga Himiko. It’s not…”

Pause.

“I… I agree with Yaomomo” says Toru, “I think it’d be good for you to forget her for a bit, Ochako. It sounds…”

Quiet.

“Guys …”

“Ochako, listen” Kyouka interrupts, “We don’t think you’re crazy. But we do think you need help. We know that Toga… saved you. In the war. But it doesn’t change what she did. (“I know that!”) Yeah but hell, we don’t even know if she’s alive! You need to heal. You need to think of yourself for once, because just like Midoriya, you forget to freaking do that sometimes!”

“I’m not like Deku! I know how to ask for help!”

“Well clearly not cause you've been stuck going around in circles, and now you’ve deluded yourself into believing Toga is still alive when we don’t have a fucking clue, Ochako!”

“I know she’s alive, dammit! I really do! And since you don’t believe me, I-I’ll prove it to you!”

“Ochako, please,” Tsuyu begs, “You can’t keep doing this. We know you care about her but this… you’re grieving. Please don’t let delusions get in your way. W-We can’t stand to see you hurting like this.” Tears roll down her frog-like face, her eyes big and sympathetic. Ochako’s heart was struck with a pang of guilt.

But they don’t know what she does. They have no basis on believing her.

“I … appreciate your concern.” Isolating. It’s beyond isolating being the only one to know, frustrating, tiring, borderline soul-breaking-, “but I’m fine. I said it before and I’ll say it again- stop worrying about me because there is nothing to worry about. Got it?”

She was met with four pairs of sad, frozen eyes. And Tooru.

After a bout of silence, Ochako bounces off the bed. She doesn't want to say anything she doesn't mean, so with a large stride and a lot of false bravado, she opens the door to Yaomomo’s room.

Sparing the others a glance, Ochako smiles weakly on her way out. “G’night, girls.”

Following that evening, Ochako had been closed off. She isolated herself from her classmates, barely sparing them a glance as she walked in and out of class. She avoided the common room, hurt by her friends’ reaction, despite understanding their reasons.

It was just difficult, when they gave her those sad, sad eyes-- and the worst part was; they knew her feelings for Himiko were genuine. They knew Ochako cared about her, in all their confusion and own complicated feelings, which she really appreciated. But it made it difficult to truly be mad at them.

Which only made her more frustrated.

The past few months had been the same.

(“Listen, I don’t get why she’s so important to you, especially after all she did, but I’ll be here if you need me okay? Just don’t get all knife crazy on me.”)

(“‘Himiko’ is not your friend, Ochako! She’s a member of the League! Of Villains!”)

( I feel … similarly. About Tenko. It’s … I’m sorry you couldn’t save her, Uraraka-san.”)

(“Ochako-chan…. You should just let her go.” But I can’t. )

(“Maybe she’s already dead.” “Then you have nothing to blame yourself for.”)

It used to be all about getting rid of the seed Toga Himiko had planted in her heart-- Her friends finally stopped taking that approach when they realized how much Himiko meant to her.

But the sentiment of the argument just kept regurgitating, and it was difficult for her to take the pity, the sadness, the questioning, the doubt and the weirdness day by day, by day.

Which was why that night in Yaomomo’s dorm ended in such a way.

She had to admit, she had acted a little immature… but she was scared. Scared that they’ll make fun of her intimate moments with Himiko, make it into something it’s not, or throw her into a damn psych ward if she told them explicitly.

She sighed, knocking her head against her bedpost (the wall) and groaning when it hurt.

Yeah, nice thinking there Uravity. You really outdid yourself this time.

Honestly, being alone was okay for a bit. It was quite refreshing, and when the sky went dark and the stars came out, her and Himiko dreamed together, far apart but their hands intertwined.

Ochako was always nervous- nervous that the beautiful dream would evade her time and time again. But for the past few weeks, Ochako would wake on the beach with her fingers in the sand; then, she would look for Himiko, and soon enough she would find her.

She had been afraid of the possibility that she’d only ever see Himiko only under the soul-sucking greyness of her cell.

But, at the sight of the swishing ocean and dreamy skies, Ochako had sighed with relief and searched the beach for Himiko like a lost puppy.

Sometimes they talked and sometimes they did… other things…(Ochako’s cheeks flared whenever it crossed her mind) but she yearned to feel the touch of Himiko’s slender hand in the grounding atmosphere that was reality.

She wished on it, daily.

It was like a prayer. Perhaps a foolish one, but a girl could hope.

Ochako misses it. She misses Himiko. Her sleep has been dreamless recently, and she worries…. She worries if she will ever see Himiko again.

______

On an unassuming night, Uraraka Ochako finally returned to the dream.

Gasping awake with a particular oddness in her chest, she could immediately tell that she’d awoken in the dream she shared with HImiko, a wave of relief flooding her veins.

The dream was different this time.

Ochako blinks at the landscape, for not a single wave pulled rhythmically at the shore. A heart sinking feeling caused her body to twist in an odd sensation, her stomach dropping at the particular thought that Himiko isn’t here.

Where is she?

“Ochako-chan,” As if summoned, Toga Himiko appears by her side to hold her hand. “Don’t be scared. We’re just in a different place ‘s all.”

A breathless relief escaped her lips.

“Himiko.”

A giggle. “Hi.”

“Hi.” Ochako laughs softly. “Why… Why did we change places? I feel like I haven’t seen you in so long.”

“I dunno, honestly….. But it’s only been a few days, Ochako~ Can’t live without me can ya?” Himiko grinned lightly, her canines protruding in a teasing manner.

“Of course.”

“...Stop being sincere or I’ll kill you.”

“Pffft!” Ochako laughed. “As if!”

Himiko pouted. “Hey, no, come on now that’s just mean! You can’t just laugh at my super deadly threat!”

“Ha! Sorry, I’m sorry- I just know you’d never actually do that.”

It was silent for a moment.

“Hmm, that actually means a lot to me. Thank you. And I’m sorry to kill the mood but … you really… don't have to forgive me.

I’m sorry, and I won’t ever not be sorry, but I hope starting now I can express my love and thankfulness to you instead of bringing you down with my guilt.”

Ochako smiles. “I would like that… But if you have anything weighing you down, you can always tell me, you know. It helps to distribute that weight.”

(“I’ll give you my blood for the rest of our lives!”)

“... Maybe.” Himiko’s eyes glazed over, her hand on her palm as her focus shifts to the horizon.

They were in a meadow.

Ochako had gotten used to it during their conversation, but the scenery was still a strange shift that left her wary. They had gotten used to the beach, the sky of ambiguous day time and the glistening surface of the water.

Ochako relished the comfort, reminded of her days in her family’s hometown where they’d take her on holidays. The kids were always loud, but the waters shimmered gracefully-- and in the spring there was always a spot they’d find; quiet and closer to the eastern shore, where her family would spend the day.

Here, the open field of flowers stretched over the landscape, as endless as the beach, the taste of freedom on her tongue.

A small house peeked at the distance from where they sat and the sky shifted through an array of colours. Ochako could swear that ocean waves imprinted the sky like a live canvas, curling into white clouds the way water would burst on impact.

As she circled her thumb over Himiko’s hand, a few dozen doves swooped overhead, passing between their shoulders to fly back into the sky. They twirled in a dance over the endless expanse, chirping and trilling sweetly. Ochako smiled at their freeing display, her free hand tracing over the thin picnic blanket below them.

Oh. Maybe-?

“D’you think this is my dream now?”

Himiko’s inquiry flowed as gently as the wind, met only by a meek-- “I dunno”, from Ochako, who couldn’t quite put her finger on what was bothering her.

Because the soundless wind from the beach remained. It brushed against their skin without a whistle or a swish, their clothing flapping against their bodies with nothing but an emptiness only the dreamscape could bring.

So, then-- “If this is yours… then every time we’ve met has been in my dream. Could that really be the case? Why would it change now?”

Himiko blinks, her head tilting to catch Ochako’s gaze. She opened her mouth to answer, but paused as she scanned the brunette's tired face.

“Oh, Ochako! What did you do?!”

Wait. What. What did I do?

The blonde leans into her space, grabbing her face and tracing her slender thumbs beneath her eyes.

“Having the worst eyebags is my job, silly. How did you even get these?”

“Oh, uh, haven’t been sleeping well.”

“‘Cause I wasn't in your dreams or like, a less gay reason?”

Ochako slaps her arm playfully, fighting down the blush.

“No, it’s not just that… I just haven’t been feeling well recently-- got into a fight with my friends and I guess you could say I don’t feel great, overall.” Privately, she prayed to not seem pathetic.

“Huh.” A bird flew by them.
“What’d you fight your friends over? Hero students don’t seem like the type to be mean to each other and all.”

“You.”

“Huh?”

“I mean,” Ochako mutters, “I fought them about you.”

Himiko blinks at her with furrowed eyebrows. “Why would you do that, Ochako?”

“Because obviously you’re important to me!”

“Yeah, but they don’t have to forgive me for what I did, y’know?”

“I don’t care if they forgive you or not! But I just want them to give you a chance. They think I’m delusional, they think I-that -- this is why I didn’t want them to know, Himiko, I was so sad- and- If they can’t accept us then they shouldn’t call themselves my friends!”

Ochako’s voice trembled with delirium, and she clutched her stomach in a frenzy.

Himiko’s worry spiked, quietly afraid to be seeing the girl she loved in so much distress. 

“Hey... Ochako, calm down,” she frowned, “Your friends are good people. I’m sure they’re just looking out for you. I’m not exactly the most trustworthy candidate for a friend, so I get why they wouldn’t like me.”

Ochako crumbled. “No, I know but- Oh, what am I even saying? I sound like an immature little kid, don’t I? I’m sorry, I don’t usually get like this--”

“Hey.” Himiko interrupts. “Stop that- I’m serious. Don’t apologize. You’re not all-knowing, Ochako, and you're not immune to your humanity. Let yourself feel. It’s okay to feel bad. It’s okay to be immature. You’re what, sixteen?”

“Going on seventeen…”

“Well, you’re just getting started for goodness’ sake! You’ve done so much for the world. You fought in a war and saved a buncha people! Plus, you’ve done so much for me. So please… stop beating yourself up for bein’ a kid. You’re allowed to do that, you know?”

Ochako sniffles, blinking through her tears. “W-Why are you so wise?”

“I live by my philosophy baby, you know how it is.”

Ochako laughs tearfully, her heart soothed by Himiko’s words. “I guess you’re right is what I mean. Thank you. I’m sorry you had to-to see me like this…”

“Again, stop apologizing. You’re okay.” Himiko smiled and flopped her head into Ochako’s lap, who immediately began running her fingers through the blonde strands.

“Listen, Ochako. You’ve done a lot. You’ve been through a lot. And part of that is my fault- we both know it. But I hope you know that a lotta people look up to you, and even if people don’t know what you did specifically, it doesn’t change the fact that you saved people.

Because that’s what heroes are for, right?”

“What about you, though…” Ochako’s lip wobbles, “What if people never know what you did to save me?”

“Then they’ll never know.” Himiko whispers with a smile. “I saved you for you. Not for people to change their minds about who I am. I’m confident in myself. I know I love you.”

Ochako’s tears spilled over the brim.

She sobbed into her hands, retracting them from the blonde’s hair with a muted wail. “Hi…Hi..miko….”

(“Thank you Ochako. You’ve made me… so happy. Truly, genuinely happy.”

“Hi..mi…ko!” )

The blonde frowned at her tears, sitting up to pull Ochako’s curling body into her own. Her hugs weren’t as satisfactory as the brunette’s but… It’ll have to do.

She ignored the prickling memory of Ochako dying, and her own, satisfied end. 

Perhaps it was because she was in the moment, and she knew what was to come, but Himiko…

Himiko was okay with being alive, now.

As Ochako hiccoughs, Himiko remembered what she was about to say earlier.

“Also, it could be,” she says, “that maybe the dream changed to mine 'cause I’m the happier between the two of us right now. Usually ‘m a little bit of a downer in this darn prison.”

Himiko, happier than her while in confinement? She seriously doubted it-- is what Ochako likely would’ve thought earlier.

Now, it was easy to believe something good enough happened to narrowly beat out Ochako’s fragile mental state; reflected in the real world and in the dream. Although… She narrows her tearful eyes at the girl, suspicious. “A-And what exactly could warrant that?”

Himiko blinks a few times, covering her mouth with a sweater paw. “What’re you talking about silly…Can’t a girl just be happy?”

“S-Sure,” Ochako says fondly, “but I have a feeling something nice happened. Would you be willing to share?”

“Nuh-uh.”

“Not even a word?”

“I won’t tell you a damn thing~”

Ochako pouts.

It’s especially effective with her misty eyes, and she could see Himiko’s face falter as she spoke. “That’s not fair, Himiko. I wanna know what made you happy.”

“I’m happy ‘cause I can think about you, knowing you’re thinking of me, too.”

Ochako smiles at her answer, which was an obvious decoy but sweet regardless.

Suddenly, the clouds seem to overtake the brightness of day as Himiko continues, “But we can’t even look at the same sky. I can’t look up at the moon knowing it’s the same one you’re seeing, like I used to. That makes me so sad. Can you fucking believe they put me underground?”

“It’s unnecessarily cruel.”

“I guess. It just drives me crazy.”

“I understand. You’re like a bird. I’d never wanna hide you away from the big blue sky.”

And Himiko’s chest felt like it caved in.

To her, this dreamscape was a sanctuary of peace.

The meadow swished and swayed in a sea of grass, reminiscent of the glittering surface of water in Ochako’s dream; only this time, they swam in it, and the sparkles on the surface had bloomed into delicate patches of soft flowers.

Unlike Ochako, this place didn’t remind her of anything. It wasn’t a comfort from her past.

It was a dying wish.

A final hope to run her hands through the dark, rich dirt and through every single blade of green sprouting from the earth.

The house at the distance was where she and her and the League would have lived, where it would rain and shine- but never would the flowers wilt, and in her heart of hearts, never would she worry that her love be taken from her.

A bitter taste danced on Himiko’s tongue.

A beautiful dream could never make up for her loss, and it felt crueler to show her a world where her wish felt real.

Although, she thought, twisting her neck to look at the hero beside her, who was looking out at the distance with her longer strands of browns swaying in the wind, I'm happy Ochako is here with me. I’m happy I get to be with her, and that she … wants to be with me.

As if sensing her thoughts, Ochako squeezes her hand and looks over her shoulder. “It’s beautiful. I’m glad I got to see this.”

Himiko doesn’t reply.

Ochako darts her eyes across her face.

The brunette carefully pulls them down onto the little picnic fabric. “I’m tired, too.”

As the girls settle into a sweet embrace, Himiko allows the dream to pull her into a realm of comfort.

It may not be the beach so beloved by the both of them, but it was the manifestation of Himiko’s heart, and so they bathed in the brightness of the open field, swimming in the beauty of a thousand flower petals.

Ochako traces little spirals on her arms, and Himiko feels like crying. Perhaps one day they could have it all.

All of it.

She greedily looks up to take in Ochako’s face, who is already looking at her.

(All of it.)

Overwhelmed with affection, the blonde meets her eyes before leaning into a soft kiss.

It is their softest kiss yet, her lips barely brushing against Ochako’s, and slowly, they melt into one another with gratitude, want and a little something else on their lips.

Ochako pulls back to look at her with something in her eyes and Himiko- Himiko doesn’t have time to think before Ochako is showering her with a hundred little pecks.

She giggles, unable to hold back from the ticklish feeling, and thinks:

Yes,

Maybe we could have it all.

_______

A few mornings after, Class 2A had just finished non-mandatory training. Classes were still held, but anything that could trigger potential trauma responses was optional, for the time being. Ochako went, naturally.

It was good for her to let out her frustration through kicks and punches, to feel the sweat run down her body, the air humidifying from her exhales as she wiped her mouth with the back of her hand. She needed it. The adrenaline.

Himiko had become more cheerful in the dreams, the valley of flowers a new commonplace for them to meet hours after the sun set. It puzzled her, but she would not take Himiko’s smiles for granted.

While Ochako herself was frustrated… Himiko deserved an Ochako that had her full, undivided attention.

And so, the dreams were the only place where the brown haired girl would truly let go, a place of solace in the chaos of her life right now.

Ochako sighs as she plops onto the mattress, Bakugou handing her her water bottle as he pants into his own. They trained together sometimes (especially when Deku strayed from both of them) as an unspoken agreement - or bond - that teetered on the edge of friendship.

She thanked him for the drink, relishing in the cool refreshment that seeped relief down her throat and huffed back into a stand.

Only, she was met with her friends’ wary faces.

That morning, they apologized to her. But--

“No, I should be the one apologizing. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to freak out on you guys like that. If anything, I was the one being immature. Thank you for reaching out to me though…” Ochako sheepishly rubbed the back of her head. “I appreciate it.”

A mass of invisibleness jumps into her arms just as Mina exclaims- “Woah, hey! Don’t worry about that!”

Ochako yelps and hugs Toru back with a weak laugh, and Mina continues. “Listen, we’re all having trouble …recently. Even if we don’t fully get you, it wasn’t fair of us to gang up on you like that, you know?”

The girls nod, and Yaomomo speaks up.

“In truth, we were all affected by the war. We have all changed, and grown, and suffered different tragedies. There is no going back to an easy life, but… we’re sorry for not seeing your heartache for what it was, Ochako-san. We’ll do our best to support you from here on out. No matter what.”

“Thanks guys.” Ochako smiles.

A weight on the shoulders of the girls of 2A seemed to have been lifted, a lighter atmosphere finally breaking through. Ochako felt like she could finally breathe. But in the back of her mind - “Don’t we have to get to our next training? Aizawa’ll kill us if we’re late.”

(Under her breath, Kyouka mutters quietly; “I don’t even think he cares about that anymore…”)

“About Sensei, actually,” Tsuyu announces, “He did ask us to bring the class to the front gate, and asked that you specifically made it.”

He asked… that Ochako made it? Her specifically?

Her friends must’ve seen the cogs churning in her head, for they quieted and started walking.

“Let’s go.” said Momo, ever the leader.

Ochako followed with a wobbly leg as they gathered the class. She dared not to get her hopes up. But she had a feeling --

She had a feeling that --

One day.

Someday.

Was that day… today?

Ochako followed her friends. Only one way to find out.

(And later, she would find out.

Her friends would apologize again, and Ochako would stop them because-- because they didn’t know.

Her classmates would change, the outlook on their society would shift, her friends would learn and Ochako would mature, despite the giddy feeling of having someone so precious to her remain. She would become happier knowing that the receiver of her unconditional love would lead a better life, that she could be treasured and cherished the way she deserved.

But to get there, it took this first step.)

Before the imposing shadow of the UA gate, stands her teacher.

His posture was horrendous, like that of an artist having worked two full weeks on a minuscule canvas, fatigued and curled with overwork-- and Ochako briefly wondered just what he’d done to warrant such a worn disposition. But it wasn’t just Aizawa.

Ochako squints through the sunlight, before sucking in a sharp breath.

Her class takes on a wary stance, and Ochako doesn’t need to see her friends’ faces to guess what kind of expression they’re wearing.

It was just 2A, a couple members of 2B, and vaguely, she hears a traveling crowd of gasps and whispers -- but in the midst of everyone’s reactions, her every sense was locked onto a single target.

It couldn’t be. She wouldn't let herself be fooled by the cruelty of that illusion… her walls climbing in defense against her own mental desperation.

She brings up a shaky hand above her brow, casting a shadow over her eyes.

As soon as she has enough clarity to see, Ochako gasps and drops her bottle.

A metallic clang rings against the pavement through the vivid courtyard, but to Ochako, the outside world has become nothing but a deafening roar of soundlessness-- everything else becomes peripheral.

I don’t believe, she thinks, that I can trust my mind anymore.

What if she is an illusion? An oasis formed by my desperation to see her? To see her in front of me, happy-- alive. What if I’m making it up?

Frozen in place, Ochako screams at herself to move but she just can’t.

She wants so desperately to feel- to touch- the realness of Himiko’s body, the weight of her under her padded fingers.

She needs to know Himiko’s warmth, she needs to confirm Himiko’s presence, to breathe her in, to kiss her, to taste her-- Ochako’s body sways like she’s dreaming, and she knows:

She can't possibly be awake.

Until--

Their eyes meet.

Warm, scared brown and beautifully striking topaz.

Ochako gasps.

Himiko smiles, beautiful as day.

In her enchantment, Ochako could’ve sworn the paved roads of UA had become a bed of endless sand, stretching over a sunless horizon, and that the whispers of her classmates were instead the wash of waves crashing over shore.

Himiko looked lightyears more alive than she did in that wretched, isolating cell, and the fact that she stood front and center in the courtyard was like a dream in itself.

A river of affection flows through Ochako's body, crushing the stream of doubt and confusion as she chokes on a breath.

She would not falter over the spring of tears on her lashes, nor would she let the sun’s blinding rays stop her from seeing the most beautiful girl in the world.

Through a rush of adrenaline, Ochako thinks that she’d rather go blind than have to tear her eyes away from Himiko.

In her desperation, Ochako doesn’t think. Her body releases from its invisible bindings.

The courtyard flashes by her peripheral as she runs past the chorus of shocked noises of her classmates. She doesn't care how it looks, because she knows who Himiko is to her, and she knows that Himiko loves her.

Himiko, who meets her in the middle.

Her red rimmed eyes lit up as Ochako came running, and to the hero students of UA, the most unexpected, most shocking thing happened.

The young villainesses of the League of Villains smiled tearfully, and jumped into Uraraka Ochako’s open arms.

To Ochako, it was solace.

The reunion of her lifetime- a genuine dream come true.

“Himiko!” She cries under the weight of the girl in her arms, pulling her in as tightly as she could, “How- you-?”

Himiko lets out a mix between a laugh and a cry. “Ochako! I-I can’t believe it! I-” she pulls back to bounce excitedly, her eyes shimmering as they find Ochako’s, “They-They let me out! I’m technically still a prisoner but they let me come outside! They said I could stay here, but I hafta do, like- I asked if I could see you because-”

Throughout Himiko’s ramble, Ochako’s eyes grew twice their size.

She didn’t need Himiko to finish. She remembers discussing this with Deku and her teachers several-- perhaps hundreds-- of times over.

A program held at UA, a reform, a rehabilitation, a second chance at reintegration for those wronged by their heroic society- yet she never thought- she never believed-

She squeals and pulls Himiko closer, the smelting warmth of her skin melting against her own.

With a surge of hope, and the clear blue skies calling to her bravery, Ochako lifts Himiko for a victorious spin.

The blonde yelps with a deathgrip on Ochako’s shoulders, and Ochako merely laughs, the kiss of sun on her cheeks a thousand times sweeter than the faded sky in their dreams.

Himiko flails, Ochako slowing to a halt to cherish her presence.

Their hair tangled in the breeze, the blonde’s flowing with the gusts of wind brushing past her so gently, like they were welcoming her back to a world of freedom.

Freedom in seeing, in being a part of the world they were rebuilding as an essential fragment to the vision of a new society.

Selfishly, as an essential part of Ochako’s heart.

The fact of Himiko’s continued existence gave Ochako hope.

(“But the thought of a world without you? I don’t like that.”)

Her eyes an ocean of love and song, Ochako muttered softly:

“I don’t like the thought of a world without you either, Himiko.”

Himiko pauses for a second, her legs held up by Ochako’s study grip. “You-!” she trails off, a pensive look overtaking her as she quiets, “You can’t just say that, ‘Chako…”

“Sure I can.” Ochako whispers into their shared space, a pocket the two created for themselves, as the rustle of trees overhead shed a falling entourage of dancing leaves.

It swirled around their bodies, and miraculously, a singular leaf glided through the short distance between their faces.

For a few moments everything vanished.

They met in a loving kiss.

Himiko’s tears ran down Ochako’s cheeks as she traced the blonde’s lower back with a most gentle caress, her own eyes stinging with overwhelming joy.

They pulled back with their lips barely a feather apart, and Ochako heard only the sound of her lover’s breath and heartbeat, a kiss of sweetness as the leaves fell to the ground in a final curtain call.

“I love you, Ochako.” Himiko whispers.

“I love you more, Himiko.” Ochako smiles, the words falling from her lips, as if loving Himiko was the most natural thing in the world.

Her eyes a pool of fondness, the brunette takes in the other girls’ shocked expression, tracing her face with a gentle hand.

Whispering the sacred words made her body flow with warmth, a feeling of care and fullness. “You’re everything.”

“….irls… Girls!”

Uh oh.

As Himiko broke down in her arms, Ochako sheepishly faced her teacher.

He looked beyond distressed, a hand running through his hair as he groaned and crouched miserably onto the ground. He mumbles something about having to start putting these kids in damn leashes, his capture weapon splayed pathetically on his good side.

Ochako swallows.

She’d forgotten about the presence of… Well, everyone else.

She sees the faces of confusion, horror and pure, unbridled shock on her classmate’s faces.

Oh dear.

“Um… sorry, Sensei.” she starts.

“It’s …” It’s fine- “I’m giving you detention. Sometimes this year. Be prepared.”

Ochako tries to bow in apology, but Himiko’s death grip on her makes it difficult. “Y-Yes, I’m sorry.”

“It’s… Please try to avoid excessive displays of public affection. I’ll let this slide since I understand the gravity of your reunion, and I don’t wish to punish you for that. But I don’t want any funny business from here on out, got it?”

“Yessir!”

Himiko hiccups tearfully. “Funny business. Like what, m-”

“HAHA Himiko you are so funny! Let’s … Let’s just shut up for a sec.”

Himiko snorts, but she warily lifts her head to look Ochako in the eye.

“Um, I know I was joking just a second ago, but I’m fucking terrified.” she whispers, “I don’t wanna look at them. I don’t wanna see their faces when they look at me.”

Ochako’s eyes soften.

“They won't just look at you. They’ll be looking at me, too. Come on. Let’s do this together, dove.”

Himiko blushes. “Y’can’t pull out the sweet nicknames when I’m on the verge of bursting into tears again you dummy.”

“Sure can, babe.”

“Ughhh, why do I like youuuuu”

“Mm-mm, you love me.” Ochako teases, grasping Himiko’s hand in hers. It was time for them to enter UA together, for the first time.

“Yeah… I do.” Himiko wobbles. “But I guess you love me too, right?”

“I love you as naturally as the sun rises.”

As Himiko’s hand squeezed her own, Ochako took in the fresh air of the courtyard. Walking towards their future… would not be an easy path. 

Friends. Family. Media. Morality. Everything would culminate in a big question of Uraraka Ochako and Toga Himiko: The Hero and The Villain ; but in both of their hearts, a dream of freedom lived on; a symbol of what they could have been, and a symbol of what they are now.

As the cool gusts of wind grazed their uniforms, the two girls finally turned around.

The sun hit their backs with a glowing halo. The leaves swished around their feet. The wind howled loudly. 

And to Ochako, this -- the real thing -- was beyond any dream she could imagine.

She would cherish every sacred breath they took in unison, and the steady, occasionally sporadic beat of their synced hearts. She would cherish every moment, every second they had together, in the real world- knowing that Toga Himiko had lived another day, just as Ochako had-- thanks to only her. 

In the seconds before they ran, her gaze remained on the blonde’s hesitant face.

She wore red rimmed eyes and heavy eyelids. And yet, Himiko remained the most beautiful girl in the whole world.

She wouldn’t forget their past. 

She couldn’t. 

But she finally let the image of their bloodied bodies washed away at shore, drowning the dust of rubble that had tainted her heart with grief. 

A curtain call to their moments of sacrifice. 

A reminder that they were lucky to be alive. To breathe into each other’s mouths and feel each other’s touch, the earth beneath their feet and the wind brushing through their bodies. 

Himiko met her gaze with a wobbly smile. Warmth spread through Ochako’s entire body. Seeing the other try-- seeing her willing to move forward -- gave the girl hope.

Activating her quirk, she tugged Himiko forward with a yelp, running towards UA as their teacher yelled after them. 

They were in this together now. There is no leaving each other behind. 

As they dash weightlessly to the brunette’s shocked class, Ochako thinks, with a soft laugh, that even eternity could not take her away from Toga Himiko.