A test subject wakes up from their slumber, restraint on an operating table with cables attached to their body. A masked person standing in front of them introduced themself as a Scientist. They explained that the founder of this project plans to create super soldiers in order to "take over the world" and this test subject is one of them. The subject cannot remember their own past nor who they are, just for now.
Scientist told them that they were the first subject to survive the artificial powers that were fuming inside them, becoming a super soldier. Unfortunately other subjects like them didn't make it, their fragile bodies were too weak to handle the weight of the power and thus, they lost. However, if they did survive the operation but didn't meet the scientist's expectations, they'll end up as a tester for the super soldiers to destroy which is a more cruel fate for them.
The scientist removes the subject's restraints and cables attached to them then proceeds to escort them out of the operation room. They led the subject to a big chamber with a glass window on the side for the scientist to see. It is a room that is used to test the ability of a Super soldier with failed powered subjects as a guinea pig.
The speaker above the room commands the subject: known as Super soldier, to destroy the trembling failed powered subjects, they didn't hesitate and strike immediately. Many start to scatter around the room out of panic to avoid the wrath of the Super soldier, others begged to spare their lives as they both all have suffered the same experiments, but the Super soldier didn't have any emotions and brutally destroys them all. Scientists were impressed by their abilities and notes down everything they have witnessed.
After the brutal moment of many perished failed subjects, a hidden dart gun pops out of the wall and shoots the powered soldier straight to their neck, and collapses on the floor. The scientists didn't want the subject to be conscious while escorting them out of the chamber in fear of their capabilities.
~ • ~ • ~ • ~
The subject wakes up in the same room again, this time without the restraints and cables attached to their body. Scientist gave them something to consume since they haven't eaten for a while. They told the subject that they'll give them some time to relax for an hour in order for them to prepare for their next test, then left the operation room and locked the door. To prevent the subject freely wandering around the facility.
While they were left alone to ponder, the subject slowly recalls who they are, becoming more aware about this place... remembering that they had volunteered themself to the founder of this project to become a super powered person, because of someone... they assume it was their old Rival? They Keep losing to them so they decide to become more powerful. They don't remember their exact purpose but they do know it was something to do with personal gain.
Moments later the scientist came in to escort the subject for their next test. They led them to a hallway opposite their previous chamber. While walking, the subject suddenly recalls that they had brutally perished other test subjects like them and started to panic. They remember that many begged to spare their lives and were scared of them, the subject began to swirl any emotions–
They never wanted to destroy anyone but why did they do it? They never wanted to be a destroyer!
They just wanted to prove their strength...
The scientist stopped midway and looked back only to notice that the subject was having a strong panic attack, they tried to calm them but the subject violently flinched. "DON'T TOUCH ME!" They screamed as they sprint from the opposite direction from where they were going.
The subject ran off somewhere but many guards were already waiting and tackled them. They tried to fight off the guards but then an alarm suddenly activated. A faint loud explosion coming from somewhere in the lab facility, something must have happened in that area. Many people rushed towards where the noise was, giving the opportunity for the subject to quietly slip away.
The guards take notice of their escape and attempt to chase them but the subject is already somewhere deep at the facility. The scientist looked at the guards disappointed.
"Don't you stand there FIND THEM! We can't let Supervillain see this mess!"
The explosion turns out it was the hero leagues that found out the Supervillain's secret lair and threatened to destroy it. One of the captured subjects managed to reach out to the heroes and revealed the location of the facility.
~ • ~ • ~ • ~
The subject stopped running as they felt their legs were giving out and slowly wandered around the area. The place is dimmer and hidden in the public from other areas, they assumed that this is where the 'founder' of the project works. They didn't want to know what kind of horrifying experiments they had done to the subjects, whether it's captured or volunteered like them.
They walk around the place since no one is around here to see them, then they hear a very weak sound coming from the room. The subject went closer to check and quietly entered the room only to see an odd looking operation table stained in crimson red. The room is filled with advanced tools they have never seen and a strange pod on the side. At the corner of the room they saw a person lying unconscious, malnourished and bruised. They couldn't see their face clearly since pretty much every part of their body is beaten up and looks impossible to be alive. They almost thought they saw a lifeless person but just to make sure, they lowered down to find their pulse, a faint sound. They felt relieved as they thought they were too late, they looked at the person's face again but then a memory of someone suddenly popped out of their mind... someone who they've known for a long time.
~ • ~ • ~ • ~
Their Rival, their Hero. The strongest savior of the city. Villain and Hero used to fight each other on a daily basis. Every time, the Hero always wins and Villain loses. They were getting tired of losing so they decided to do something. They went to Supervillain and asked suggestions of how to beat their rival. Supervillain replied that they should improve their power to become stronger so that they're capable of overthrowing the government, they liked that idea thinking that it was their chance to defeat the Hero. Not understanding what exactly Supervillain had meant. They planned to capture the very savior of the city and drain their power until their life was sucked out of their body, creating super soldiers to take over the world.
Their... nemesis, who used to be cheery & brave was now turned into a living battery for Supervillain's plan to overthrow the governments and the city. This all started because the subject Villain wanted to become stronger to defeat Hero, they literally had given the chance for Supervillain to rise up, but not anymore. Villain plans to ruin Supervillain's ultimate goal to usurp the government.
Villain gently scoops up the unconscious hero, carefully not to break their fragile bones. Their weight feels feather light which is concerning. They felt Hero's head lolls into their chest and made a weak, pained sound but the Villain softly hushed them. Whispering the Hero that they're in safe hands now, and the pain & suffering they had endured is over, they left and escaped the facility.
Villain wasn't sure if the hero had heard them or just moved while unconscious but not that matters to them as long as they have their Hero.
They didn't know they were the reason why Hero is miserable, they didn't know the source of their 'power' actually came from the very person they were supposed to defeat, now the Hero is helpless at their arms. Villain would do anything to make up for their mistakes.
Hero sat quietly on the roof of the building, a place where no one could see them above. The gust of air passed them, cape tugging them gently from behind.
The wind whistles across the city, the view stretches wide beneath them. Neon lights flicker, the faint laughs and the music, it all felt beautiful and lively. Every sound came from different distances, hearing all at once. They could stay like this and watch the world glow, it's envious to see people live such a peaceful life.
If only Hero could feel the same...
A tear finally falls free on their chin, realizing they've been holding back for so long. Hero gave so much for the city and yet the kindness and gratitude they've been yearning for has never been given, they wonder how long they could keep playing as a protector... If they're still as one.
It's all too much... too unbearable.
Hero wasn't given time to train their full potential and was immediately sent on the field. The agency mostly assigned them to chase criminals much bigger than them, especially Supervillain. The most dangerous, cunning criminal, the mastermind of evil schemes.
Supervillain's crime is off the charts and no higher-up heroes want to take the case, simply because petty thieves and criminals are easier to get rid of. Meanwhile, taking down the mastermind criminal requires "effort" and their ego is way bigger than cleaning the real problem. They decided a low-class hero was the best pawn for this, knowing Hero is an orphan no one would notice if they died from the villain.
Hero hugged their own knees and lowered their head, making themselves look small. The moon shines the night sky. Looking down upon Hero, silently watching their muffled cries, the city below couldn't hear them.
They've been beaten, tortured, taunted by Supervillain and Hero always have no chance, it ends in failure and it's humiliating. Whenever Hero returns to the agency with tattered suit and bruised skin, Superhero punishes them strictly to 'get better' next time. Their side efforts of cleaning the city criminals weren't seen, only failures from Supervillain.
Hero knew they weren't treated right, because the punishment was more brutal and nearly lost their life. Compared to their teammates that were given 'encouraging speech' whenever they make a mistake on mission. Hero assumed the team simply hated them, Superhero is more obvious with their murderous intent and even didn't try to hide it.
Many villains saw them as a joke. Hearing the news of a Hero always serving themselves to Supervillain like a free meal on a silver platter, but Hero didn't have a choice. They were tasked with the impossible win, their dignity and reputation wasn't relevant, and their life wasn't meant to last long in the field.
They aren't meant to be remembered...
Hero looked up at the night sky, wondering if they could just... float in an eternal space where the world couldn't reach them and pull them back to an endless pain and suffering. They hope to close their eyes and never be open again.
Their mind slowly sinks at the bottom of the void and Hero embraces it. They drown themselves in deep sorrow, no longer caring for everything else. Hero rose on their feet, standing at the top of the building, tears stopped pouring and smiled at the world one last time.
Hero shifted near the edge, arms spread like open wings. Slowly, they let go... the world tilted before their eyes, the gravity pulled them down and Hero accepted it.
Hero wished they could've done more, that was their final thought.
...
..."NO!!"
It wasn't a solid ground that Hero felt. Instead, something struck them in mid air, preventing their intention to slip away from the world. It was so close! Hero didn't meet their end, they crashed at a glass plain inside the building and bumped into an obstacle. Their whole body hurts, probably because they hit something too hard.
Darkness filled their vision, barely any light travel inside, silhouettes of remnants of what it seems to be an old office are left forgotten in the past. The wall has cracks, the floor is stained layers of dust, the air is thick and suffocating. As expected, the building should be left untouched as it was abandoned, however the atmosphere isn't empty, Hero knew they were not alone.
Someone next to them slowly stood up and walked towards Hero, as if they weren't affected by the collision earlier. Hero couldn't move, nor did they care what was happening, their ears ringed loud–their mind lucid. Hero still couldn't fathom why they're still breathing...
The figure stood above Hero for a moment, then crouched down and grabbed them. Hero struggles to identify the person's face, it all happened so fast. Fortunately the reflection from the glass shards gave them a slight glimpse of the figure, a small detail is enough for the Hero to recognize...
"What were you thinking?!"
...Heh, to think that someone will look for them is quite absurd. More shockingly, Hero didn't expect one of the Supervillain's right hand. Who contributed to their pain and suffering is the one who looked for them at the end. Could the Hero ever escape this humiliation?
"Answer me, Hero!" Villain felt hurt and distraught, they needed to know why their hero could have done this. Did Hero not want to be a crime-fighter anymore? They don't have a clue, but forcing the question will make things worse.
Villain sighed after long silence, they gently reposition themself and hold the sad crime-stopper into their arms. Hero didn't seem to mind, but their eyes were dull and lifeless.
"...why did you do it?" Villain asked gently this time. Hero didn't respond for a moment. They closed their eyes and leaned closer to the criminal's chest, and murmured a few words, barely a whisper. Villain didn't quite catch that but they don't need to hear it again. Because they noticed a silent tear, knowing the answer might be difficult for the Hero to express...
Villain gently cradles Hero and holds them close for who knows how long. Hero needed this comfort, someone who understands them just for a short moment. Villain may not be a good person but they're not a monster to someone who's given up in life. They need their nemesis to get back on their feet and fight again.
Hero is quite special to them. No other heroes wanted to fight Supervillain, but the crime-stopper in their arms was brave enough to face them. Villain was fascinated by their confidence and cherished their every banter and fight, it's what keeps them going. But they don't understand why the Hero felt not the same, or why they need to give up...
Villain sense the Hero relaxed in their hold, as if they were about to sleep. The criminal felt in awe of how small they are. Hero needs time to heal, and they will take care of it.
Villain carries them in bridal style, ignoring the shattered glass beneath them and leaps off the abandoned building.
"...Where are you taking me?" The hero finally opened their eyes and looked at them, but remained dull and lifeless.
"Somewhere safe" Villain felt lost inside, they wished they could see Hero's spark and fire once again.
They'll make sure to bring Hero back to their senses. They'll deal with the Supervillain later.
TW: Trapped in, injuries, exhaustion, implied death
Another work of patrolling. Hero couldn't shake off the memory of that night before–he cursed himself for letting the criminal escape. He blames himself for underestimating the villain's scheme. Cringing from that memory, Hero brushes it off and proceeds in his night patrol.
Hero kept on strolling, looking for nooks and crannies or anything suspicious, then he stopped at a particular warehouse that is seemingly abandoned, he could have sworn he heard faint murmurs on the inside.
Hero debates whether he should investigate or not. Eventually curiosity took over. Hero went closer to the entrance, inside; he saw multiple people gathered at the center. Hero recognized one of them was the same villain he fought last time. Not only that–it hits him when he realized that this could be a villain's meeting place.
Hero wanted to eavesdrop just in case something serious. He couldn't hear what they were saying, luckily the large door is slightly open. While the villains are busy discussing whatever–Hero quietly went in and hid behind one of the large shelves, containing multiple strange devices and reactive chemicals. Hero definitely doesn't want to touch any of that.
His heart dropped when he heard the villain's conversation involving an ambush to Superhero headquarters, capture every hero on the list that poses a threat to Supervillain's plan then destroy the league. With it, nothing can stop Supervillain!
Hero felt nauseated, he immediately wanted to leave as soon as possible and warn his colleagues about the villain's ultimate plan. With his panic nature–he accidentally nudges the shelf causing the items to collide, making a noise.
"What was that?" The leader of the gang asked.
"Must be the wind?" Villain shrugged.
Hero panics and goes to a different shelf, hoping he wouldn't get caught–however, it made another noise again... He curses himself for his clumsiness.
"Everyone! Search the warehouse! We can't let someone foil our plans!"
All the criminals spread out, Hero quietly makes a move and tries to sneak out to the entrance, in the process–one of the Villain saw a movement behind the shelves.
"Oh no you don't"
The shelf glows bright red and lifts up hanging in mid air, revealing the perpetrator In front of everyone. Hero lets out a yelp as he has been discovered.
"YOU! You've been eavesdropping on us?!" The Leader points out their weapon.
Left with no choice Hero has to face these criminals, despite being outnumbered "whatever your plan is, I won't let that happen!"
All the criminals charge after him. Hero began to materialize an orange forcefield around him that expands to push the criminals away, all of them are knocked back. Hero quickly ran towards the entrance–not noticing a bright red shuts the door closed, locking him inside. Curse that telekinetic Villain!
"You cannot escape knowing our plans!"
"We'll see about that" Hero prepares himself into a fighting stance, he forms a magic field around his fist and charges after.
The fight felt hours, everything inside the warehouse turned haywire. Large shelves fell on the ground, some of its contents are shattered or broken–chemicals spills on the floor, spreading everywhere whilst everyone didn't notice until it was too late.
One of their abilities corrodes into the chemicals which causes a chain explosion, all of them were knocked back from the force. The impact was severe enough that the warehouse would crumble. The ceiling and walls began to crack due to beams and support being damaged.
"Bah! Forget about this, you may have destroyed our equipment but we have a backup plan! Until next time! Pesky hero!" The Leader shouts and proceeds to evacuate the place.
"Hey! wait for us!" The Others yelled.
"Then run faster! Not my problem if you get stuck here!"
Some criminals manage to get out, just as the hero is about to leave–large chunks of falling debris suddenly block the entrance, trapping him inside the crumbling warehouse.
"No, No! This can't be!" Hero yelled as he tried to smash the large debris that wouldn't budge.
"You're not the only one who's stuck here..." said a voice coming from behind. Hero looks back only to see an awfully familiar face, the villain that he has failed to arrest last time.
"You?! Out of everyone why did it have to be you?"
"Whoa–chill out." Villain raised their both hands, a mock surrender. "Maybe put your complaints aside and think of a way to get us out of here?"
The hero scoffed "You have telekinesis, correct? shouldn't you be the one who can remove this rubble?"
"I know, now I can't do this alone, can I?" The Villain smirked, Hero rolled his eyes, knowing time was running out... "Alright, fine I'll help you."
Hero begrudgingly tries to clear the rubble alongside Villain who uses telekinesis to remove the larger ones.
Both of them flinched when they heard a loud cracking noise from above, they looked at each other in panic–knowing what was about to happen. Then–in a beat, the ceiling collapsed. Hero reacts immediately and materializes a large forcefield to both of them, shielding from incoming falling debris. Villain felt in awe since they've never been inside the forcefield.
Unfortunately, the process of forming the forcefield is slow. Few debris manage to get in, some are large and pinned Hero down, just before the forcefield is fully formed.
The warehouse is completely destroyed, two of them remain inside the forcefield, surrounded by large debris and beams. Hero has lost most of his energy, he groans in pain but tries to keep his posture, otherwise they'll both crush to death.
Villain notices the situation and attempts to remove the debris pinning Hero down, right after they let out a silent gasp when they saw Hero's deep wound on his abdomen.
"My... Hero you look terrible!" Villain says sarcastically, masking their worried tone. They moved the crime-fighter in a comfortable position.
"Thanks... for pointing it out, as if we weren't trapped in dangerous circumstances." The hero coughs up blood, Villain flinched.
The criminal looks back and forth, thinking of a way to deal with this kind of situation "Don't you have anything to call someone?"
"I can't, my communication device dropped somewhere during a fight and most likely crushed in the rubble... Why don't you call your gang? Can't they help?"
The criminal crossed their arms, a taste of bitterness surfaced in their tongue "Hmph, we aren't on good terms and I doubt they'll risk their lives to save me."
"That's. Unfortunate for you, Villain."
"Well... I think it's better to be stuck with you than my own accomplice" Villain smirked, but Hero cringes. How is this criminal not taking things seriously!?
Villain tries to make things positive despite their fears tearing them from inside. Meanwhile, Hero worries whether no one will look for him since he's only a few days old in the league, he could be fired for failing his night patrol. Ugh, what a disaster, now he's stuck with this criminal–the same villain who he failed to arrest.
The criminal attempts to remove the debris to clear the way out. With the literal ceiling just right above them, the surroundings are nothing but rubble. The only light source is just Hero's forcefield and Villain's telekinesis. Villain could only do much due to their capabilities having limits, Hero keeps his powers active to keep the ceiling from crushing them.
Villain could feel their strength weakens, having their telekinetic powers used up and their arms straining for being in the same position. Villain notice that the light surrounding them flickers and slowly dies down, indicating that it will soon disappear. Worried, they glance at the Hero, who seems gasping for breath–his right hand clutching on the wounded area while the other is twitching from exhaustion but still keeps the forcefield active.
They stops what their doing and sat next to Hero. picking them up into their arms to try to ease their pain.
"Hey hey, it's okay Hero... we'll get out of here eventually." Villain could no longer mask their concerns, they don't even know if they'll make it out alive...
Hero refused to look at them, he didn't like that sudden comfort from his enemy but the pain was unbearable.
Villain sighed in defeat "I'm trying my best to clear out the rubble as possible, all I'm asking is you stay with me for a little while? Can you do that?" They couldn't ignore the fact that the forcefield barrier is fading.
"I'm, trying..." Hero said with a raspy voice "And stop pretending that you care... we're enemies remember?"
"I know you don't like seeing yourself vulnerable, but it's not the time to think about that, so uhh–" Villain gestures his condition, Hero understood what they meant. "If you want to help me, then do something to lessen the pain... it hurts."
The criminal awkwardly moves Hero into a more comfortable position, they place his head rest on Villain's arm. "Is that better?"
"A little..." The hero weakly murmurs. Villain caresses Hero's forehead to comfort, it's the least thing they could do from this situation.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~
Not long after, they hear voices coming from the other side. Villain assumes that someone called out to investigate the place. They couldn't let that opportunity slide.
"Anyone! Someone! Please help us! Hero is dying over here!" Villain screamed at the top of their lungs, hoping they get saved.
Hero didn't understand why the criminal shouted, as if answering someone that Hero couldn't hear. Or that Villain felt another presence that wasn't there...
"Villain, what are you doing?"
Villain couldn't shake off the feeling that something's not right, all they care about is the way out. And they're desperate...
"Hey! You hear me! Please, help us!!" The voices from outside faded, it didn't bother to help them at all.
Hero could tell the criminal is shaking from exhaustion, their mind began to lucid. Perhaps the villain still couldn't accept their fate that was about to be sealed.
"Villain... It's alright, someone will find us eventually... " the Hero smiled, it's his turn to be positive. The blood poured all over the floor. Villain felt their fear of seeing the crimson liquid.
"No, no. Someone was outside! I don't understand why they didn't...even." the Criminal hit their head, the voices they've heard didn't come from the outside, it's inside their head. They've been hallucinating from exhaustion this whole time.
"Villain, if we don't make it... Then I'm sorry this ended that way." That was Hero's last words, Villain felt his body limped completely. Their heart dropped knowing the hero lost so much blood.
"Hero, wait! Please don't leave–!" Villain couldn't handle this alone, the forcefield faded right after the host lost its light. The weight of the ceiling began to crumble, soon it collapsed–Villain immediately summoned their telekinetic powers to prevent the ceiling from slipping while they held the hero protectively.
However, their powers are not enough...
The weight is greater than their own and it's plunged down.
"N-no! Wait!! N-not yet–!" The villain screamed.
Hero was sent in an isolated cell with power suppression cuffs on his wrists. Apparently he was deemed as a "rouge hero" after the last mission to take down the mastermind criminal. Hero's team was impressed with his fighting skills and so on. However, his mentor didn't seem to like that one bit.
Not long after, Superhero arrived at the Hero's cell to discuss his last mission. Hero immediately gets up to confront his mentor, the glass barrier weakens his voice, preventing deeper interaction.
"I didn't do anything that upset you or the team! Please, let me out!" Hero pleaded, he felt lost and frustrated, his blood boils from the inside. How did he end up like this?
Superhero shook his head, like a parent punishing their child from a mistake "Your powers are out of control, Hero. You need to be isolated so that we can observe your powers."
The hero scoffed and looked away, holding back tears forming to his eyes. He couldn't trust his mentor after the betrayal.
"...was all of this happened because I took down Supervillain myself? Was I too good at my job that you doubt my abilities potential? I was just doing my job like you asked!" The hero screamed in frustration and banged the glass barrier. His super strength barely penetrates the thick glass due to the power suppression cuffs on his wrists.
"Exactly. That's why you're a danger to society, who knows that you'll turn around and destroy the foundation that we've created?" Superhero crossed his arms.
Hero flinched at the accusation of his own mentor, who they've been together long enough to form a bond like a family... And now, it doesn't feel like the Superhero he knew before. He became a total stranger, trying to prove his worth just to get accepted in the hero agency all over again.
"I...I would never do that. I care for the city and everyone else, why would I turn away from innocent people? I wouldn't let the city fall in the hands of the Villains!" Hero confessed with his heart and deep desire, is that enough to earn Mentor's trust?
Superhero didn't move an inch, then... he grins, an unsettling smile. He placed both gloved hands on the glass, as if observing the prey trapped helplessly inside the cage.
"That's exactly what I like about you. Dear Hero..."
"Huh?" The Hero looked at him anxiously, slowly backing off until he reached the white wall. Something about his tone quickly changed, as if that wasn't Mentor right in front of him...
In the blink of an eye. Superhero is already breathing down on his neck and slammed Hero to a wall. The barrier means nothing when it comes to teleportation power, Hero felt truly trapped. Not even the cell that supposedly prevents anyone from entering could save him from Mentor.
Superhero grabs Hero's jaw, forcing his attention directly to his predatory gaze. Hero glares angrily, the Mentor feels delighted now that he has Hero under his control.
"You always get in my way. You're too persistent to protect your beloved people and the city. That. Is why I need you out of my sight." A familiar, eerie grin smiled in Superhero's form is what Hero finally realized what was happening...
"...Supervillain" Hero grunts, his neck began to strain. Moreover, he didn't expect the mastermind criminal would act so soon, starting from Superhero. His mind was taken away, controlled by Supervillain...
"Ah, so you noticed, did you? Do tell me, Hero. How does it feel your beloved Mentor loses autonomy to someone who can possess their mind? I can do anything with this body, even destroy his reputation in the public's eye."
"N-no! P-please don't..." Hero attempts to squirm from his grasp. Supervillain simply redirects his gloved hands and cups Hero's face gently, mimicking the mentor's kind gesture.
"Don't worry, darling. I will take good care of you and your team. You may have destroyed my real body but that does not matter to me, however..." The mastermind criminal leans closer, whispering to his ear.
"I can make your life suffer as I please."
Hero involuntarily whimpers. Tears pouring out of his face freely, his body trembling slightly. Supervillain chuckled and gently wipes off the tear.
"Cry no more, dear Hero. Your new life awaits." He stated, then released the hero from his grasp. Giving him space to breathe.
Hero looks up again, but this time. Supervillain was already outside the glass barrier again. As if everything had happened earlier was out of the subject.
"I hope your team survives the next mission" Mentor blankly stated and walks away. Hero stood dumb-founded then quickly storms towards the glass barrier, realizing what he possibly meant.
"You won't get away with this, Supervillain! You hear me!? My team will find out eventually!" He screamed, banging the glass continuously.
Supervillain stopped at his tracks and looked back to his captured prey, unfazed with the cracks from the glass creeping in. "Oh? Who would doubt their Leader, Dear hero?" The villain, now impersonated as Superhero grins eerily and left the cell.
You play Crime-fighter at night, bringing justice to the city, while attending school at day time like a normal kid. This becomes your typical routine and your father has no idea about your alternate identity.
You’ve grown used to your father coming home late at night, you don't mind it. What you don't understand is how he sometimes brings himself home injured. When you asked him about this–he simply smiled and said not to worry about it, then proceeded to his room as if he didn't see his own blood pouring on the floor.
You beg to differ of course this worries you! Seeing your father limp through the door makes your heart ache. Sure, he earns a huge amount of money–in an exchange of sacrificing his own health? At this point, you're convinced that he's definitely working as a criminal.
The thought alone raises your concern. Heroes of the city are more aggressive towards criminals these days, beating them up and leaving them half-dead on the streets. Knowing this as you are a hero yourself. You dare not to imagine his beaten body on the streets just because he works as a criminal for a living.
So long as he continues his work, your worries about him won't fade and you're tired of this, you're tired of seeing your father hurt every time he goes home. You hope to find this "villain side" of him soon and convince him to look for a normal job where hurt isn't involved...
Deep down, the whole idea of your father being a criminal is ridiculous. He's not a bad person, it's that–you assumed the worst of him since he never talked about his work to you at all, nor did he mention heroic deeds either if he was, a Hero. Isn't that something to brag about, when people praise for his noble work protecting the city?
The next day of your class. You were zoning out and didn't really care about Ms. teacher's lesson about the history you live in, only for your ears to be wide clear the moment she mentions someone you recognize. It's about the city's representative: Superhero. The current protector of the city. You subconsciously glance at the window, seeing the hero tower at a distance reminiscent of his symbol.
You admire him. His confidence and fighting skills are just, amazing. He does not back down despite the challenges. You want to be like him, to fight and protect your home. Maybe one day you save your father from his villainy, you could make him proud of you too.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~
You still ponder about your idol on your way home, tracing down the familiar path. The atmosphere felt still, soothingly nice and quiet the way you wanted. That is, until you hear murmurs of voices getting louder, a silhouette of shadows emerges on tracks blocking your way. You glance up and see a crowd of people gathered on the road, all too excited about someone.
"Whoa, what's going on, is there a celebrity?"
You went along the crowd to see who it is, everyone here has their phones up while you struggle to find the right spot. And finally, with a small glimpse you saw of an all too familiar outfit–
Gasp, it's Superhero! Your heart flutters seeing him in the crowd, he seems to have an assistant beside him doing their best settling down the overwhelming crowd. You wish to tell Superhero of how much you're a big fan, If you could get closer.
Amidst the chaos–there's no way you can get to him. You're a nobody, like everyone else. You can only see a small portion of your idol among the crowd, the sun is also completely out. Left with no choice, you turn around and skip this moment. You still have other things to do anyway.
Just as you're heading out, you feel strange yet a familiar presence following you. Looking back only to meet his gaze, the one you're supposed to see a moment ago–out of everyone's thirst for attention you're the one that he took interest, despite that you're no longer in the crowd.
...or Perhaps Superhero must have seen you leaving his presence, a silent question 'why would you miss the chance to meet the City's greatest hero?'
The assistant is already seeing double, exhausted dealing with the overwhelming crowd. They notice their superior is acting strange, his eyes beyond people's view. Worried, the assistant shook his shoulder, snapping him out of the trance–
"S'hero, Superhero! What are you doing? Everyone's waiting for you!" They whispered, scolding his unprofessionalism.
His body flinched but quickly went back to his posture "Huh? Oh, right. I thought I saw..." He points out at the distance but you're nowhere to be found.
"...someone"
The assistant shook their head, "Think about that later! We have people to deal with."
~ * ~ * ~ * ~
You suit up and take down small petty criminals at night, then go home like nothing happened. You change to casual clothes and wait for your father, but knowing his work schedule—like a workaholic he is.
You're about to go upstairs when you hear the front door creak. You immediately rush down the stairs to see your father–expecting him with cuts and bruises again but to your surprise, he's damped in sweat like he just fell from a pond.
"Goodness, wonder what happened to you?" You asked. Silently relief knowing he isn't hurt this time. You secretly put away the medical kit and went next to him on the sofa.
Your father sighs tiredly, his body left with exhaustion "Heh, well let's just say... I was chased by a lot of people."
You raise your eyebrows questionably. Now that's new... usually he gets injuries from work but never once being chased.
"Oh come on. Don't look at me like that, sunshine! it's not like I got hurt this time."Â
"Yeah, well... at least that's an improvement." Perhaps your father got lucky to be outrun by some brutal heroes.
He paused for a moment, not liking where this was going. "Let's... not dive into this subject further, I bought us some dinner though." He presented a delicious packed food from his bag, the aroma is already seeping through–your eyes flickered bright. Both of you ate the meal at the end of the day.
You just entered the school courtyard when you can already hear students screaming and bolted past you towards the gates, you stood clueless by their terrified look... should you go along with them? Nah. You're a hero, instead of running away you look for the source of the cause instead.
You head deeper to the school's heart, seeing side structures broken down to pieces. And most of all; an ominous figure stood at the center, surrounded with dark energy. It's none other than a most dangerous mastermind criminal; Supervillain.
Facing the mastermind criminal is definitely not what you expect. You never actually met him during your hero-duties and yet here he was, causing destruction at the school you attend to.
Seeing Supervillain's powerful capabilities, there's no way you stand a chance against him. You'd rather not risk your life and wait for other heroes to deal with him instead.
You'd secretly hope the villain didn't see you here and slowly tip-toed away, he seem rather busy whatever the schemes are...
The moment you turn back, someone bolted and you were snatched off the ground. Carrying you high up in the air as you dangle in their arms for dear life.
"Let me go!" You scream, panic rises as you struggle to fight off the grip. Supervillain simply laughs "You want me to drop you and splat like a pancake?"
You didn't say anything, anxiety overwhelms you. Having to not face a dangerous criminal before, not realizing a silent tear falls free on your face. "Aww, don't cry little one." He coos and wipe off your single tear "Just hold still and you won't die."
Supervillain continues to glide high above the sky as you helplessly cling onto him, fearing he might drop you off anytime, and he knows it.
Live cameras are targeted towards the hovering criminal. The world is watching, anticipating his next move. Supervillain is delighted.
"O dear nemesis! Come out, come out now! Otherwise, this hostage will never see the light again!" He laughed menacingly.
As quick as lighting. Superhero shows up and boy, he looks pissed. Before Supervillain could even start the monologue–the crime fighter lunges forward and tackles him, freeing you from the villain's clutches. However, it doesn't mean you escaped from falling to death. Superhero realized his mistake and immediately went after you, grabbing you just in time before your feet touched the ground.
Superhero cradles you as you tightly clung to him, fearing for your life. He murmurs comforting words as you're in a panicked state. When you're finally at ease, you look up to your savior with big, watery eyes.Â
"S'superhero?" You whispered.
The master crime-fighter simply smiles, his heart strings tugged by just looking at your adorable face. He puts you down and gently pats your head, then flies up and chases after his nemesis.
You witness your savior disappear from the sky, sadly, it's too high up as you only see a silhouette of movements and their abilities clashing—
A light shuttered in front of your face. You didn't notice the reporters and cameras surrounded you, bombarding with questions:
"What happened up there?"
"How did the villain get you?"
"Did you witness their powers?"
"How does it feel to be saved by Superhero?"
Tsk! Reporters, they didn't even ask if you were okay, can't they see you just got threatened by a dangerous criminal?! Nevermind being saved. You simply declined their questions and told them to leave, save those cameras for the City's Savior! But their brain is dense as a rock and still insists, begging for more info about you.
You finally had enough of their nonsense and with no second thought–you bolted. Away from the nuisance. You turned around the corner of the streets and hid behind the dumpsters, hoping they slipped past where you went, and it worked! As soon as their footsteps faded, you sprang out of your hiding spot and ran home.
You opened the door after the long run, you placed down your backpack and flopped on the sofa, not bothering to change your school clothes as you're too tired to care. You grab a pillow, put it on your face and sigh heavily.
Not long after, your heart jumps by the sound of the door slamming wide open.
"My little Sunshine, are you alright?! I saw you the news earlier and came here as soon as I could." Your father looks like he ran a mile with that heavy breath and all and swiftly rushed to your side.
"Are you hurt, do you need any medication?" He grabs your arms to check any signs of bruises, then he cups your face inspecting each side of your chin. His expression is frantic and worried, since when did he care about your well being?
"I'm fine, dad. Not like I was hurt anyway."
Your father sighs in relief and hugs you protectively. "I thought I was going to have a heart attack when I saw you fall down" he murmured, holding you tighter "you could have died for all I know."
You hide your face on his shoulder, you don't want to remember that. Your father senses your discomfort and gently rubs your back, stroking your hair softly.
Now that you think about it how did he even know about your situation, or knew you were home today? Wasn't he like–working most of the time? You still have no idea what his work truly is about.
Suddenly your father snapped, like he just woke up. He lets you go from an embrace and goes straight towards the door...
"W-wait dad! you're leaving? But you just got here" You felt hurt and disappointed, the overwhelming emotions that happened today were exhausting. But seeing him leaving just like that adds salt to a wound–as if he didn't consider your emotional state.
"I know, I know. I'm sorry sunshine. I won't take long, I promise." He smiled in reassurance and left the house.
TW: restraints, cold environment, darkness, fluff/comfort towards the end.
Note: I neglected this part and forgot about it, whoops...
A cold presence seeped inside the green house. The criminal jolted awake from his sleep when a breeze creeps through his skin, sending shivers through his body. Unknowingly, Villain lifts his hand into the air but finds out he couldn't see anything. Perhaps the fire was out for a while and must have slept overnight.
Villain gets up from his sofa and blindly navigates his dimmed home, he attempts to reignite the fireplace but finds that there's no wood left, it was already consumed by fire.
He paused for a moment, he did not anticipate for this to happen! The long silence is enough for the cold to settle in as the gravity of the situation is realized, he begins to shiver violently as the cold slowly dominates his green house.
Villain looks for another way to warm his place up, he couldn't see anything beside the light source coming from the window. He looks at every corner of the house, in hopes of finding a way to use it as a substitute to fuel the fireplace...
Villain's heart jumped from a loud sneeze, he grimaces at the hero who just wakes up shivering.
"Geez, you scared me!"
Hero pans around the room and lands on the shadowy silhouette. "W-What's goin on? Why is it... so dark? And s-so cold..."
"The fire is out, I'm looking for a substitute for the fire right now"
"What"
"You heard me"
Villain continues to scramble for a way to fuel up the fireplace, as he is losing hope to continue the search he turns around and sees the good doer staring, anticipating his next move. The criminal frowned and shook his head, Hero understood as it means he didn't find anything.
"Seriously? Can't you just use your plant powers to light up the fireplace?" Hero suggested.
"Whoa–whoa, my powers don't work like that!" He flinched, baffled by Hero's audacity to ask that kind of question "and besides, you saw how my vines turned to dust the moment it was touched by fire? Makes me wonder why you didn't use your powers to free yourself"
"Villain. My hands are tied up, you think I can just summon fire mid-air by saying magic words?" Hero brows furrowed.
"Isn't that how your powers work... right?" He asked. Hero just gave the clueless criminal a weird look. "Alright, fine. I get it" the Villain is about to continue to look for a wood but then an idea pops out of his mind.
"Ooorrr... You could do 'us' a favor" he beamed, creeping closer towards the good doer. The hero scoffed, talking about favors coming from the villain's blabbering mouth gives a terrible feeling about what's about to come. "Ugh, what could it be now?"
"...If I remove these vines keeping you in place, will you warm us up?" Villain gesture the vines wrapped around Hero.
"Why in the world would I do that!?" The hero is lost for words... actually maybe it's not a bad idea. It's just that–he didn't feel right to share his powers with his enemy...
"Well, do you prefer both of us freeze to death then?" Villain crossed his arms.
"I- I don't know?! Don't you have any alternatives that could warm your house up?"
"Look Hero, think about the current situation and if you don't cooperate with me right now, we might freeze to death"
"You didn't answer my question, Villain"
The villain went silent, awkward even "...Admittedly, this is my spare house, I don't have many items in this place that can warm us up. My green house was only meant for an emergency in case something happens to my lair, ya happy now?"
"You have a lair?" The hero was shocked, but not surprising for a typical villain. "and yet you didn't have any basic survival tools like candles or even a heater–"
"Shut up!" Villain's face flushed bright red in embarrassment, Hero felt like he was about to burst laughing at how unprepared the criminal is. "I don't like having fire related items near my plants, besides half of this place is made of wood you know!"
"Then... Why do you have a 'fire place'?" Hero teased. Villain actually thought the same thing, he has a good point... Curses!
Villain scratched his head "...well, It's for extreme emergencies when the electricity is out, and all I can rely on for warmth is the typical fire place... so are you going to help out or not?" Villain could feel the cold inside his green-house have become strongly more hostile, how in the blizzard Hero couldn't feel that!?
Meanwhile, the Hero side eyed the criminal, questioning his motives. Villain is filthy rich and yet he didn't bother buying a necessity for survival needs? Hah, what a joke! Hero sighed, this Villain really.
"Alright fine... so how am I supposed to help? My fire powers don't last longer in this cold" Villain just hummed and currently undo the bindings "You could at least try to summon it?"
"Whatever you say, just don't blame me if I burn your oh so-called spare house by accident" he shrugged.
The hero stood up and walked towards an open space, guided by a faint light on the glass window "So where do I summon fire?" He waved his arms in the air.
"Could you do floating?" The villain suggests.
Hero attempts to summon the fire, the room turns bright for a short moment–then the small light flickers aggressively and is lost in the cold. Hero summons the fire again but it dimmed pretty quickly.
"...That didn't work" Hero said disappointedly.
"Try again?"
"I-I can't, it's just not working..." Hero's voice felt small. He looked at his trembling hands, feeling numb and cold.
Villain glanced at him, concerned "What's wrong with your powers?"
The good doer stares at him deadeye "What do you think? My powers are too weak since your thorny vines did something to my power!"
"oh...I see" Right, he totally forgot about that.
The criminal went to the other side of the room, blindingly guided by the wall near him since the light doesn't reach further. Villain comes back with something in his hand, then gives a soft fabric to Hero.
Hero puzzled by this soft material "What is this?"
Villain picks up the fabric from his hand and gently wraps around the good doer "It's my old cape, I gave it to you because I thought you needed warmth, and besides you're shaking like a leaf." he added.
Hero didn't realize he was already trembling until Villain mentioned it. But still– "I-I don't think this is..."
Villain rolled his eyes "Are you serious? I'm doing this to save you from freezing and all you think about is our differences?" The criminal pouts, he thought his generosity could lead their soon-to-be-nemesis bond in a bit lighter mood.
"Well, alright... thank you... Villain" Hero struggles to admit that word. Villain simply smiles and waits for him to regain his strength.
...
Both of them sat down on the wooden floor, the cold is making them tired, Hero is already falling asleep. Villain, ruminating on the situation they are in, the blizzard is still out there, Villain suddenly perks up when he feels a strong warmth from Hero. 'The side effects must have weakened then!'
"Hey–wake up! Don't sleep yet. We both still need heat to survive"
"W-wha huh? Oh! Right...the fire" the Hero yawns and positions himself.
Hero summons it again but this time the fire lasted longer, a modified light that doesn't spread like a normal fire would do.
The Villain is at awe by the Hero's power, he has never seen this kind of "fire" when they fought earlier, perhaps he should get to know more about his new nemesis pyro ability. That reminds the villain of something...
"Wait here, I'll be right back."
Hero watches Villain places the potted plants next to him one by one. Each leaf is quite unique and exotic. The flowers are gorgeous and stunning. It must be expensive! How did he get this stuff? After Villain finishes placing the last cute plant next to the crime fighter. Hero points out on the potted plants "What's all this about?"
Villain slightly adjusted the pots "what do you mean? I didn't want my precious plants to freeze in the cold. So I might as well bring them warmth and comfort."
The hero chuckles, thinking the criminal is adorably wholesome for dedicating his care towards plants, after all. Villain has Floral related abilities, people with powers like that will definitely be fond of any greens... and probably botanists.
"Your floating light feels comforting by the way" Villain randomly commented while petting his "weird looking" plant.
"What, you think my fire is comforting...?"
Villain looked embarrassed to admit it, clutching one of his rare species of a potted plant. "well, o-of course!"
Hero didn't expect those words to come out from someone who doesn't like fire. The room is much brighter now, the warm tone of the light contrasts the cold light outside the glass wall. Hero is not sure if his fire can last longer before the blizzard disappears.
Out of everyone in this city, you decided to take me as your bait?" The civilian asked, unimpressed of the villain's deed.
"Well yeah you're the first person i saw passing by the streets so i have to take you." Villain proudly convinced.
"How is that going to capture the hero's attention? they don't even know who i am–"
"Hero saves almost everyone, poor or wealthy, heck! even a kitten that is stuck on a tree! Hero–is just... I want to keep them for myself, they're too pure in this world."
The civilian thought Villain was exaggerating, they wondered how the Hero would think about the criminal... "you're Insane, but I don't think Hero is going to save me."
"I called the hero on their phone that I captured you, I knew them well enough that they'll immediately take action to save a petty civilian like you. Once they fall to my trap, they'll be mine."
"How dare you call m–wait... you called Hero through a phone? How did you even get their number?"
"I did some digging."
After minutes has passed...
"Why is Hero taking so long? They usually step in and ruin my schemes pretty quickly." The villain pouts, annoyed.
The Civilian rolled their eyes. "They're probably busy doing other things."
"Hmm. You seem calm about this, aren't you afraid that I would do something evil on you?"
"You, being evil? Nah, more like I see you as a weird clingy villain trying to gain Hero's attention."
"Hey–I'm not like that!"
The civilian sighed "Villain... I'll say this again, the hero is not coming to save me."
"And how do you know that?"
"Because they can't... You know that you're not the only villain that Hero deals with, so obviously they're probably busy fighting other villains."
"Ouch, that really hurt my feelings. I thought Hero and I shared a bond as a nemesis..." Villain scratch their head, unsure if their feelings were even real.
"Face it villain, Hero is really not coming so I suggest you let me go and we can pretend that this never happened."
The villain wouldn't give up just yet "...No, I'll let you go when the sun rises down."
"Are you serious–"
Hours later
"I'm starting to feel bored here... can you let me go now?" The ropes began to hurt around them, tied in a chair for hours wasn't a good idea.
The villain sighed in defeat "Maybe Hero really is not coming."
"Goodness, I told you so many times that the Hero will not show up but no–you didn't believe me that they're busy with something else."
"I know! I get it! It's just–ugh... I only wanted Hero's attention because they're the only person who listens to my evil monologue or even dances around from our fights while other heroes straight up beats me, Hero may not know this but I just want them to be my only nemesis..."
The civilian wanted to throw hands at the villain of their foolishness, if it wasn't their hands tied. "What makes you think that Hero wants to be your nemesis? It's not like you're important enough for them to notice you!"
"I know. That's why I did this."
"this is kind of lame."
"Well not anymore.. I'm going to let go now, Hero is not coming anyway and it's already getting dark outside."
The civilian sighed in relief "Finally"
The villain stood awkwardly and untied them "Just... pretend that this never happened." They turn away in shame.
The civilian only thinks about food "Yeah yeah I know, whatever... wait–are you crying?"
"What–no! Well maybe..."
The civilian felt a bit of sympathy "Why are you crying?"
Their tears pour out openly "I–I don't know... Maybe because I feel sad that Hero rarely gives their time for my schemes. I work so hard for my cool monologue and a fancy cape to gain Hero's attention, but I guess there are other Villains who are better than me."
The civilian urged to confess the truth, they felt bad for not telling the Villain sooner "...If you must know, I do know why Hero didn't show up."
The villain sucked their breath and looked at them "What... you're telling me this now, are you serious?"
"Well–It's... kinda embarrassing for my part that out of everyone, you manage to capture me on my day off." They confessed.
"Your... day off? I don't understand"
The civilian continued "Yeah, it's my rest day from work and then you decided to kidnap me. Obviously I wouldn't show up."
Villain's realization finally kicks in and points a finger at them "w-wait! are you saying that you're..."
"Exactly" Civilian, now Hero crossed their arms.
The villain walks back and forth in shock "Oh my goodness... I actually captured you? You, The hero?"
"...yes?"
The villain continues to ramble "Out of everyone on the streets I've managed to capture the hero?
"yes"
"Is that why you didn't show up because you've been here this whole time?"
"Ugh, how many times I'm going to say yes? yes you did capture me, end of the conversation and I'm leaving."
The hero stomps towards the door, the Villain follows and grabs their arm from behind, stopping at their track. "You think I'm going to let you go right after I find out your identity?"
The hero caught off guard, as if the villain had changed attitude. "W-what?! You said that you only wanted to be my nemesis! I didn't know you had other evil plans!" They felt a bit betrayed, thinking conflict was already settled.
Villain backed off at their sudden outburst, waving their arms "Whoa, I don't mean that! I just want you to hang out with me that's all, then you can go home after that."
Hero immediately regretted their assumption towards Villain "...Oh, is that it? Why do you want to hang out with me?"
Villain shuffled their feet "...because I like the feeling of your presence? You rarely gave time for me so this is probably my chance to uh... hang out with you?" The villain gave a puppy look of their eyes.
The hero chuckles at their adorable nemesis and holds their hand. "Alright fine, I'll hang out with you just for tonight."
Warning: self-doubt, a bit gaslighting, (hurt/no comfort)
An anonymous letter was sent to Hero, stating an important matter happened to their home city far away. Hero came as soon as possible and upon arriving, the city isn't what it used to be.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~
Standing over their home city–everything's in ashes, buildings and establishments are completely deserted, devestation is all over the place, the villains have won.
"Ah, so you came" A familiar voice spoke behind them.
The good-doer turns around, meeting the gaze of their old nemesis. Though slight changes of their appearance but the presence remained the same.
"What happened here?" They asked.
"Lots of things happened. Where have you been?"
Hero... didn't answer, how could they say to Villain that they left being a crime-fighter for a while?
The Villain began to speak, quivering with emotion "Did you not know that many people mourned you when you disappeared? Did you not know that many people were desperate to be saved by you when the city's hope has fallen? Do you not realize that you have left your People and your CITY at the hands of the Supervillain?"
"I wasn't the only crime-fighter, Villain. Surely other heroes could have dealt Supervillain so stop saying like I was a chosen one"
"That is where you are wrong. Ever since you have left, many criminals have become stronger, most heroes were struggling to keep the city in peace. Slowly, heroes were falling one by one until no one was left. Supervillain rose up and took over the city."
What? 'the heroes have failed, Supervillain took over?' How could this happen? The city that they used to work so hard to protect was all in vain, but something doesn't add up here... Surely the rest are still alive, right?
"What happened to people who used to live here?"
"Some people went on hiding, most of them were forced to work tirelessly for Supervillain's facility underground. Or if they were lucky enough– somehow manage to escape and flee out of this place, they wouldn't call this home afterwards." They stated as if it was a normal occurrence in this city.
"What about the other heroes?"
"Like I said. They failed trying to save the city."
Hero went silent, refusing to believe the criminal is telling the truth. They knew most heroes were stronger than them, but not strong enough to stop Supervillain? Now Supervillain holds the city and everyone who lives in it.
"People hoped for your salvation Hero..." Villain continues. "You were the one who they believed, even other heroes talked about you. You were the brightest hero among the heroes who now have fallen."
Hero looked down out of defeat, they knew that the Villain was right, they left everyone and their city... But they weren't the only heroes, sometimes bad things are bound to happen. Villain insist as if that was their fault– perhaps this is a way to convince Hero to take accountability to the master criminal's destruction of the city? this is wildly absurd.
"Well hero?" The Villain interrupts
"What do you expect me to do? It's not like I could just barge Supervillain's domain and straight up confront him."
"Then why don't we make a truce?" They declared an unexpected offer.
Hero bats an eye at them suspiciously "Excuse me?"
"If we work together, we can take down Supervillain and bring back the city's hope."
"Teaming up with you is the least thing I would do."
"It is beneficial for both sides, I know you want to save the city and so do I"
Hero thought the audacity that Villain was blaming them for not saving the city moments ago and now Villain wants to help them?! They're not buying that one.
(Something tells Hero this feels wrong, they knew Villain was trying to lure them at something but Hero couldn't think what exactly.)
"Why should I trust you? You're a criminal. I thought you were here just to gloat at me leaving everyone at the Supervillain's mercy?" Hero's face stiffens, trying their best not to burst their emotions out.
"Yes, I am indeed working for Supervillain, but his intentions for the city are far more cruel than– we villains originally planned. We have plans to fix the city for a better change but Supervillain has other ideas."
They must have misheard what Villain said. The criminals plan to change the city for the better? The villains? That doesn't sound right. Who would believe that a criminal can change the world better than the good ones? Ha! Like they could.
"..So you're helping me because Supervillain intentions are not according to your plan? Are planning to betray Supervillain?"
"You could say that, Hero."
Hero raises an eye brow, uncertain about this so-called truce. "I don't know Villain. I think it would be best if I do this alone. I don't trust you."
(It couldn't be Villain was the one who sent them a letter, right? Otherwise this entire thing was planned for them all along.)
Villain went silent for a moment, their face lit up with a strange expression "Oh Hero, we both what Supervillain is capable of. I know everything he plans for the city and where his location is, but if you deny my help..." The villain smirks, tauntingly. "Then good luck saving the city on your own."
The hero grumbles and looks away, pondering a way to consider. If they did accept Villain's offer, chances of betrayal and getting captured is more likely to happen. After all, Villain works for Supervillain– just who in their right mind would backstab their superior? But if Hero refuses the offer, they will have to go through Supervillain's domain all alone and hopes they wouldn't get caught by other villains or the mastermind criminal himself– but of course! This bastard knows Supervillain's plans and can be ruined whenever the opportunity is around. It's a lose-lose situation, both outcomes end with the same consequences, just the other one is less emotional bearing...
It's not like Hero has other choices, both options aren't good. Accepting Villain's help would be easier to track Supervillain and hopes their luck they weren't falling right into a trap– maybe they can rescue other heroes if they were even captured? But If things don't go as planned then Hero will have to ditch this whole operation and leave the city for good.
Hero didn't want to say it so they only nodded in agreement. The villain is delightful about their compliance, their expression shifts in an odd grin. "That's wonderful Hero."
Hero still doubts Villain's intentions, everything the criminal has said earlier felt fabricated, though there's one more thing; "You wanted to save the city from Supervillain. Right? Why didn't you do it before?"
Villain silently flinches, they never thought Hero would ask that, but no matter. "If I did it alone, he would have killed me on the spot."
"So where should we start?"
"There is this place not too far away from here, let's discuss our plans there."
Hero strolls on the public, not caring for the city nor their job. They stopped playing crime-fighter long ago and felt better that way, the burden no longer clings on their shoulder and they don't have to chase criminals anymore. Hero ordered a cup of coffee at a nearby cafe and sat outside to drink, watching daylight pass.
Moments of silence, a smoke came to view then a loud explosion next, people came running for their lives. The Hero sighed heavily, annoyed that their former-nemesis is doing petty crimes again, they knew this because Villain has unique ways of executing their schemes... just to get their attention. Seriously, when does Villain ever stop being a nuisance in the city?! Actually, Hero just remembered they shouldn't care, it's not theirs to clean up the mess anymore.
Villain hovers above the city, cackling at their own chaotic scheme. Meanwhile Hero just watched and sipped their coffee, then stood up and went on their day, ignoring the criminal up and everything around them. They know Villain is trying to lure them out and play games like the old times. But the hero isn't going to fall for that.
Just a few steps after leaving the cafe Hero had unknowingly revealed their position, someone spotted them and silently followed. Hero wasn't wearing any crime-fighter suit and all but their presence is highly recognized. Not long after they were hoisted up flung high into the air, crashing on one of the buildings.
Glass shattered and Hero tumbles across the floor, Hero groans in pain as they struggled to stand up, their knees buckled, someone hovers down to their view, the same person they were trying to ignore.
"Are you happy to see me or are you just being a jerk?" The Hero croaked, knowing the Villain is just grinning smugly above them.
"Isn't it? You didn't show up to my schemes that I work hard for you, where were you?" The Villain grabbed their collar, Hero doesn't struggle.
"That's none of your business, Villain"
"That's the problem" Villain punched Hero square in the face and threw them to another station. Their back hits the wall with a huge force and slumps down, blood oozes out of their body.
People from inside the office panicked when they realized the situation and scattered like a bunch of ants. The hero didn't move, still lying wounded and bleeding. The villain walks towards the former crime-fighter, emitting a dangerous aura with every step.
"You know what's infuriating? I spent days–weeks pouring my ideas into glorious, brilliant schemes specifically made just for you. I've been waiting, but guess who else showed up? Other heroes, not a single time you were there to fight me. I'm very disappointed in you, dear nemesis."
The Villain stood ahead of Hero, unfazed by the civilian's terrified gazes or people running past them. What matters to Villain is they want their nemesis to get up and play games but their hope dies down when Hero doesn't reciprocate the invitation.
"Tsk. Not fighting back are you? Just how long do you plan to be a coward, hm?"
"S-stop, I'm not doing this. I already left the agency a long time ago." The former crime-fighter coughs, blood spews on their mouth, everything hurts– "...Just leave it be, Villain"
The criminal scowled, not amused by their nemesis declaration of giving up. "Hmph, then we'll see about that"
Villain grabs one of the unfortunate civilian who was just cowering under the desk and hoisted them up for Hero to witness, threatening the civilian to cut off their air pipe.
"How about now?" The Villain grins, waiting for the former crime-fighter's reaction to kick in.
The civilian thrashed and claws their captor's arm as the Villain slowly tightens their grip on the Civilian's throat. "P-please! H-have mercy on me!"
Hero, seeing the poor civilian, they struggle to stand up but their body is just weak "Why are you doing this?"
"My dear nemesis, it pains me that you stopped playing justice when you told me once– oh what did you say... 'Saving the city is my duty'. Isn't that right, Hero?"
The civilian's scream can be heard as their neck is slowly crushed under the Villain's grip, their bloodshot watery eyes are glued to Hero's staggering form, beckoning to save them.
"Villain! S-stop-!" The Hero cries, attempting to get up but fails and falls down.
The villain felt delighted, now that their nemesis finally responded to their little game, "Ah, now there's my hero! Oh, it's been a while since I faced that ambitious side of you."
But that feeling of excitement was short lived when they noticed Hero isn't paying attention to them. Their eyes glued on elsewhere, seeing something that the Villain couldn't.
Their patience is getting thinner the more their nemesis gaze isn't about them. "Time is ticking Hero, their life depends on you. What happened to that courage of yours saving this poor civilian, hmm?"
The hero finally looks at them, their demeanor changes calculatedly. "Maybe you should've not paid too much attention about me." It was their turn to smug on their face.
What?
Something behind them shattered. Villain jolted from the unexpected event and was about to promptly turn around–but before Villain could manage–they were tackled, pinned on the ground. The civilian breaks free as the criminal struggles from a stronger person's grip but their wrists immediately cuffed from behind. Villain could feel their powers being silenced, it must be power supper cuffs... They should have known Hero's former teammate would show up, again foiling their plans.
"That's really clever of you, dear hero. Distracting me while you wait for them" Villain turns their head only to find out the hero is long gone, along with the civilian they just threatened. They were left with the Other Hero.
"Shut it you scoundrel, you're not going to get away with this mess you've made!" Other hero barked, grabbing the Villain upper arm and heads, outside the building.
The Villain just hummed, not bothering if they were being arrested. "Tsk, I'll find you later. Dear nemesis" Villain mumbles to themselves a promise while being taken away.
They will do anything to make their Hero play the chasing game again.
Tw: amnesia, implied past destruction, left behind, restraimts, blood mention
Hero stirred from their long slumber but darkness is what greets them. Strings of light shine through a small gap of the cold cell, the ground sways endlessly in an unsettling rhythm as if they were on a boat... wait, how did they end up here? Did they lose from a fight?
...From what fight?
They... they couldn't remember, Hero tried but couldn't reach them, as if their memories fell deep into the void, leaving their inner self wandering alone searching the oblivion. Not only that their head hurts, every inch of their body screams in agony like a whole truck was thrown at them. Hero attempts to stand up when something cold bites them in place, making them trapped in an uncomfortable sitting position, upper arms hung limply on the wall. It's When Hero realizes that they were impaled by two large Iron rods.
Their heart dropped in dismay, mind raced in panic-- this can be, how did they end up like this? Hero couldn't accept it. They hated it, hated themselves for how helpless they feel right now... weakness isn't something they embrace as a protector of the city— but something snaps them back to reality, the pain on their wrists increasingly gets worse, leaving Hero no choice but to act quickly if they don't want to be trapped in this position...
With a huge breath they braced themselves, slowly, hesitantly, and began pulling out their wrists. The hero hissed, eyes watering–It hurts! the burning agony sends them over the edge, gritting their teeth from the excruciating pain of an iron tearing off their skin–pierced deeply into their wrists that it actually passes through the other side of the wall.
After the painful seconds of what it feels like an hour of their life, Hero finally slumps down on the floor, relieved and exhausted from all of their strength used, the air brushed harshly against their open wounds.
Hero leans their back against the wall with a loud thud, still pondering how they ended up in this dark cell– or container to be exact, marked with dents and rusts where light beams shine through gaps, some damaged rods scattered around them. Aside from dried crimson that decorates the wall—behind them, was an open frame that could've been their way out but unlucky to Hero, another container blocks the view, a horrible reminder that they cannot escape...
They eyed at the rods where they were pierced earlier then glance at the other side of the wall, partially damaged with dents and rust...
Hero reaches out the iron rods and pokes the other side of the wall multiple times, forming a circle-like pattern. They clench their fist, ready to blast the wall but pause for a second... Hero knew their wrists weren't in good shape, the wounds could get worse if they continued further, however they didn't wish to be trapped in this container either.
That's it! Hero gathers their remaining strength and smashes the wall with a big blow. Parts of the metal fly across the block as they jump out to freedom...
Sun rays reach their skin and the sky is clear blue, the weather is calm but the beauty of nature clashes in an unsettling silence in the air. Beyond the horizon is all they could see endless rhythmic waves of an ocean dancing in daylight, swaying roughly against the ship from where they stand.
The ship isn't ordinary, it's a steel giant, filled with boxes of goods, stacks of containers, and a large crane tower at the end. But the lack of presence of another being tells them that they were left alone, stranded even.
Hero wanders around the cargo ship. Eyes darted from one side to another— Observing anything they can find, familiarity they could seek, clues that make sense, but they didn't know exactly what they were looking for... It's a lone ship.
Hero ponders what their next move, their fist still aches from the impact earlier and holds it on their chest protectively, good thing it didn't break any bones though...
But Their head still hurts— their whole body hurts, They don't know why but the thought of someone throwing a whole container on them makes more sense now. Just what kind of criminal did they go up against anyway? Their strength was unbelievable! Unless it was no typical criminal they've fought, could it be that--
Suddenly, a faint vibration pulses from their chest. Hero freezes, their eyes narrowed as they pluck out a small device– disguised as their hero badge... They pressed the button and a familiar holographic screen symbol flickers onto the air. Hero immediately picks up the call, hoping for answers to the situation.
Then, through the static, a frantic voice breaks the silence on the comm. "–s'hero! Superhero! Can you hear me? You weren't responding to my calls earlier, did something happen?!"
...It's their sidekick. The hero sighed in relief, they almost forgot their own team.
"Were you hurt? Do you need backup? I knew you should've let someone with you–"
"No, no. I am fine, [Hero]"
The apprentice doubted their leader for a moment, they knew Superhero went through a tough fight against their arch nemesis. "–Did, did you manage to stop them?"Â
...Stop who? There isn't anyone here.
"I—yeah, I guess I did" Based on how wrecked the ship is, they probably did something.
"That's great! I'm glad you're alright [Superhero]. The mission is a success, you can go back now– and Please! Keep yourself in touch this time. We'll see you at the base." Then the device turned off.
Silence filled the air after the conversation. Hero Superhero stood still, the floor shuddered beneath them as waves roared across the sea, all alone with their thoughts again.
The ship is brimmed with strange—foreign contents. Large materials that looked exotic, as though it'd been plucked from another world, or they just didn't know what the better use of. It was no wonder they were sent on a mission to stop these criminals or whoever it was the idea of exporting these suspicious goods.
They didn't have other things to do, and so Superhero began to ascend from the ground as they prepare to leave the vessel–
Seemingly out of nowhere, a faint whisper reached out their ears, calling out their name–
Superhero jolted in panic, they immediately hovered down and glanced at every corner, every empty space, but there were no signs of life other than them. What's this all about? Is the ship playing tricks on them now!?
But it felt real, so distant, or were they being delusional? But it's there, the murmurs keep calling out to them... Superhero decides to trust their instinct and follows where the lingering voice in the air will take them. Consequence and regrets may be damned later...
Heading to that area Superhero suddenly went agape, their guts churned after seeing the poor victim's condition who called out to them, surrounded by their own pool of blood, a sharp piece of metal discarded away from them, must have been stabbed by that thing earlier before Superhero came. They couldn't fathom how this person is still alive in this state.
For some miracle, the person felt Superhero's presence—their head slowly lifted up, eyes dull and glassy but expression sparked in relief.
"You.. you're here..." The lone crew spoke, attempting to reach out to their rescuer–
Superhero immediately went beside them, forgetting their early doubtful thoughts, switching their demeanor to a hero and gently hold the lone crew into their arms, murmuring soft–comforting words. Like they usually do to civilians when protecting the city from evil. Blood began to seep at their suit but cared less about it, Superhero tears their own cape and uses it to patch up the wound–but the lone crew groans in pain of the sudden inch of movement.
"It– it hurts..."
"I know. I know... just hold still. Okay?"
Superhero couldn't figure out the main source of the wound and just wrapped it all up wherever it bleeds the most, they made sure it's firmly covered and not too tight.
"There, is that better?"
The lone crew nods weakly and leans against their shoulder. Knowing that the lone crew felt safe around Superhero. After all, being left alone nearly at the feet of the death's door is quite lonely.
Then again, Superhero's original mission was to prevent the cargo ship from transporting illegal goods, but what exactly happened to this ship? Where are the rest of the crew? Why was this person left behind? Were they left to die, or perhaps one of the victims? But they don't seem to look like one.
Superhero didn't realize they've lost in thoughts when they felt a tug of their suit. They looked down and saw the pitiful puppy eyes of the lone crew. "Um, if you don't mind... could you, send me back... home?"
Home? Of course! Superhero didn't want to stay in this abandoned ship as well, however before that Superhero could ask one question before leaving, "Do you happen to know what happened to this ship?"
The lone crew hesitates for a moment "...I uh– can't seem to think. I was running away from, something... then I got stabbed by a piece of metal and passed out" They looked down on shame "I'm sorry I couldn't provide you any more info about this."
Tough luck, they seem to not remember as well, much worse that is. This makes Superhero wonder how bad the event was to the point they both lost their memories.
"It's okay. I'll send you home, but you sure you don't want me to send you to the hospital?"
"N–no hospital! Just home please, my boss might be looking for me..."
"Oh... alright then, just grab on to me and hold tight"
The lone crew wrap themselves to Superhero. Superhero secures the lone crew in their arms, carrying them. Then leaps off of the ship and flies  towards the city at such a high speed– the lone crew shrieks from the unexpected flight and hugs tightly on Superhero for support.
Superhero didn't realize who they've saved just now was actually one of the Supervillain's henchmen.
* ~ * ~ * ~ *
Earlier at the Super hero's tower...
"The criminal ship is heading at the [location], and it seems they're importing something illegal to another [place]" The hero reports, looking at the map in front of the large screen.
"Then we should do something about it immediately!" Another hero said.
The group of heroes are discussing the situation, but then their leader barges in to end the conversation. "I will go out and chase them down instead" Superhero stands. The group of heroes were shocked at their statement. "W-what? You?"
"I know who is behind all this, it is my rival [Supervillain] he may be up to something huge but I won't let him achieve that"
"B-but what if something happens to you?" Their favorite apprentice began to worry, "S-should we go out together like a team? What if Supervillain and his minions outnumbers you?"
"I understand your concern, [Hero] but you all won't stand a chance against him. I will face him alone while you youngsters must pursue your training until you have reached your potential."
The group of heroes looked at each other and agreed, they couldn't refuse their superior's command.
Screams of destruction and chaos can be heard coming from a crumbling building. Meanwhile the Villain, hovering above the city, watching their work proudly come into place.
Somehow, Villain saw a glimpse that caught their eyes on a building window, someone inside the building with a bright color outfit rushing room to room looking for something, wait could that be...
Hero, Hero came to save the day, from the building that is about to fall. No.. It can be. Why are they here? It's supposed to be Superhero who suppose to show up— but why does it have to be them?
Hero, looking for any civilian who needed help, decided to go on the roof building, hoping that they could find someone to save, instead they meet someone else. Someone who was responsible for this chaos.
Villain, with a hover board goes down to Hero's level. Hero then immediately turns defensive stance.
"Villain, if you're here for a fight then I don't have time for it"
"You shouldn't be here Hero. I expected someone else to show up and that someone is not you."
Hero is about to argue when they hear cries echoed somewhere down the (n)th floor. Hero immediately takes action but then Villain swoops in and blocks their way, Hero tries to go sideways but Villain persists and reciprocates their moves.
"Villain, what the heck? Get out of my way."
"Hero, enough of your heroic complex and back away now."
"Are you seriously asking me to stand by and do nothing?" Hero crossed their arms.
"I meant that this place is going down, no use of saving anyone in there"
"Someone could be trapped there between the floors, they need me..."
Hero backed a few steps to take action but then Villain clamps on their both shoulders, forcing them to face Villain.
"I'm serious Hero, you're risking your life. This building will soon fall if you don't back down!" Pleads and desperate began to paint their voice.
"You're the one who caused this disaster so why do you care?" The hero glares at them.
"Because it's not meant for you and yet you came anyway."
"I don't care who you're waiting for! I need to save someone there!"
Hero slapped villains both hands away, they use their super strength to smash the roof floor beneath them and fall down to a lower level to find someone.
"Hero! Urgh— you can't keep doing this!"
Villain hovers down to follow Hero somewhere in the building. While Hero is running to look for someone, an explosion suddenly blasts on the outside wall, revealing Villain themselves.
"Villain! Stop following me and get out of here!"
"No! I won't stop until you get out, please leave, it's for your own safety." Villain offers their hand to hero in an attempt to save them.
Hero almost took the bait and backed away..."You care way too much for your enemy, for someone like you responsible for this.. is this a way of regretting your actions?"
"Because it is not meant for you! I don't understand why you're risking your life for these pathetic civilians who don't even care about you."
"Well i care!"
Suddenly a loud explosion interrupts them coming from below. The floor began to sway, Hero crouched down in order to avoid shaking too much, then the floor broke beneath them. The building falls down along Hero and other unseen victims inside. the Villain panics and flees from the building but then immediately regrets it and goes back to save Hero but the building is already collapsing making the hero's life in vain.
"Hero! HERO!"
Villain struggles to look for Hero as the building continues to crumble, but then debris and ashes scatter and fly everywhere, making it harder to come close.
Smoke and dust surrounds the collapsed building, ambulance and firetrucks are at the scene while the villain hid somewhere on the smokes so no police or rescuers could see them nearby. Villain tries their best to look for Hero and calls out their name, hoping that they'll hear Villain's screams or pleas, they're probably unconscious right now and couldn't hear them. Regrets and consequences of their actions began to devour their thoughts as Villain kept searching for their nemesis...
Not knowing that somewhere beneath the debris, an exposed arm, large crimson pools on its surroundings, unmoving.
Hero is very, very unfortunate when it comes to their arch nemesis. Not knowing how much the Villain is obsessed with them.
Hero's naivety makes sense. Villain doesn't usually show his dark– twisted side when it comes to professional business. But deep down, it's more than who Villain is on the surface...
Villain watches their every move, their fighting stance. Their style. And every, single detailed information about the Hero, their hobbies, their working place, and their apartment...
Villain didn't just want to fight Hero– he wanted to feel them. Possess them. Control them. Break them... Villain knew the Hero's strongest point, their weakest point. Victories and their failures. The idea alone of their hero— defeated, kneeling under his gaze. With scars and bruises marked by Villain sends shivers over his body.
—But no, Villain can't do that, he couldn't do those unspeakable– humiliating things to his poor little hero. That'll kill off their confidence, their spirit as a protector of the city. No. That won't happen...
...Not yet.
"Hush, my dear hero. Save that lovely voice of yours for later, mkay?" Villain spoke in a hushed, smooth tone.
He traces their delicate face– down to Hero's lips, stopping at the healed mark on their neck...
"–The scar looks good on you, marked by my very own blade" the Villain beams in delight, looking at his precious trophy bound on a "luxurious" chair. Hands tied behind them. And trapped inside in his villainous base, underground lair.
The hero wanted to avert his obsessive eyes, but Villain immediately grips their face– almost as if he knew Hero was about to look away. Not harsh, not gentle. Just a warning sign of their teensy defiance.
"Ah, ah, ah. Why shy away? You shouldn't be afraid showing your true colors to me, dear nemesis. That includes your struggles. Your scars, marked around your body."
"That's kind of bold, coming from you" The hero spat, angry tears began to form behind their eyes...
"Oh my, so much fire! Just for me..." The Villain coos, wiping a single tear slips freely to Hero's face. "don't look so down to yourself, dear nemesis, you have me... And only me"
Unknowing to Hero. The Villain's room was covered full of their photos taken secretly from shadows. Newspapers, notes, and collections about Hero all hanging on his wall. Not one detail he had missed. Their smiles, their hobbies, work, and when they bleed...
Villain didn't want to kill the Hero– Not yet. Killing would be too easy, that's like skipping the best chapters of their journey. No. He wanted it slow– savoring their experiences, their life, their memories, and their love... Villain wanted to be the very last person the hero sees when finally closes their eyes.
But beneath his obsession it was hunger– desperate, all too eager to possess. To break them. To taste their soul, their confidence... Villain wants Hero to look at him to his eye when their spirit dies. He wants them to see him in a way— not as their nemesis, not as their hated foe... but the one who truly knows them best. The one who understands them deeply. One who stays with them till their last breath.
"You make me feel special..." the Villain whispered confession. He kneels In front of the hero, and hugs their legs–
"That's creepy you bastard!" The hero screamed, struggling at their restraints. "Get off of ME!"
The villain stood, retreated a few steps. Their hands up in mocking reassurance. "Why do you worry so much? I don't bite~"
He stepped closer, face just inches away. Villain lifts Hero's chin up– Eyes meet each other's burning gaze.
In his mind, Hero wasn't just his arch nemesis. They are connected together by soul– their deep essence, bound together for eternity. If his Hero didn't feel this yet... Then they will eventually. Villain will make sure of it.
"Without you, interfering into my life, what would I be now...?" He whispered...
Then– to Hero's horror. The Villain's lip met theirs.
Waking up in an unpleasant position wasn't very comforting, Hero couldn't move, a suffocating warm presence tightly wrapped around his body, the place is dark and maybe too quiet-
"I see that you are awake" a voice spoke in the dark, interrupting the peace. The sound of clattering wood and lighting the fire brightened the room, the place looks oddly vintage and rich, filled with pots of exotic plants and flowers. Villain adjusted the fire in the fireplace to keep them both warm.
"Wha... Where am I?" Hero groans, still drowsy from uncomfortable awakening.
"My home obviously, specifically my green house. It's not like I'm going to leave you passed out in the snow." The Villain chuckles, then his face darkens, walking towards the tied up hero, his body and limbs are wrapped up with thick vines bounded on chair. "And also, this is for ruining my plans. I have to cancel my schemes and retreat back because the blizzard almost got me"
"Wow. How generous of you" Hero's words were sarcastic, not minding his current predicament.
"Oh you better be! I risked my life just to get you out of the upcoming blizzard, it almost caught up to me! If only you didn't delay my plan none of this would've happened" Villain threw his hands up, expressing how he felt at the moment.
"And whose fault is that? I'm only doing my job. You can just reschedule your 'so-called' plans or whatever" He never thought Villain could change from stoic evil to overly this... dramatic.
"Keep talking like that and I'll throw you out to the blizzard." the villain scolded, then his face leaned closer to Hero. Eye to an eye. "Do I have to remind your place, Hero? You're lucky that I have slight sympathy to carry you out of the incoming blizzard”
"I didn't Ask you to save me"
"Oh? Then you would have froze to death. Clearly you do need saving"
Both of them went silent, glaring at each other before Villain decided to break the awkward tense and left out of unease. The hero felt relieved, he didn't need to look at the villain's soul more than needed, given the 'extreme' closeness to their face that nearly bumped each other's forehead.
Meanwhile the place turned quiet and hushed. None of them were saying a word. The only thing that can be heard is the sound of crackling fire and the rumbling winds of the blizzard coming from the outside. The wood on the floor creaks as Villain seemingly walks back and forth picking up some plants and placing it near the fire. Hero couldn't do much as he is restrained on the chair, he doesn't care what the criminal is going to do to him, his powers aren't working for a moment.
Hero glances around the room, looking for a way out to escape. Noticing It didn’t have many items and decor besides small potted plants, a few books on the shelf, picture frames about plants, and behind him, is a thick glass wall that serves as a window view. 'Maybe he could just break the glass and run?' Hero thought... But then again how can he? The outside is a menace, the snow on the ground is thick and the sky is awfully dark, constantly falling lots of snow–
"It's quite intense out there don't you think?" Villain interrupts, noticing Hero was staring at the window, both of them witnessing a heavy continuous fall of snow. "If you're planning to leave, I won't let you, and you can't either. Otherwise you're asking to be perished by the cruel nature."
"Better risk trying than being at the enemy's clutches" Hero's calm mood changes to defensive, slightly wriggling the restraints.
"Can you just wait it out until the blizzard goes away?" The criminal sighed heavily and pinched his nose bridge, tired of the hero's stubbornness. "Look, I know that we don't like 'seeing' each other, but can we at least be at peace for now? I'm just as tired as you are"
"How is this at peace? I am restrained and you're not. This isn't peaceful, you're treating me like a hostage" Hero pointed out, looking down at his tied up frame then back at Villain, his expression is unreadable...
"Oh... that. It is simply because I don't want you to burn down my green house, given your powers are dangerous in certain circumstances... And also a little payback for ruining my plan" the Villain chuckles.
The crime fighter frowns. It could have been a compliment if Villain didn't say the last sentence, the criminal realizes and immediately regrets it.
"Uh— Forget what I said, once the storm calms down I'll remove the binds then you're free to leave-!" Villain quickly dismissed the conversation and went to his sofa at the corner of the room.
'What a way to end a conversation' He thought. Hero was left alone while the villain chills on the corner... Waiting for the blizzard goes away proves to be a boring task, Hero decides he doesn't want to be awake at his bad predicament and dozes off to sleep until time passes.
"The weather is unbearably cold, why did they have to pick me? Can't they just pick someone else who is capable of dealing with this cold condition?!" Hero grumbles, strolling alone on a snowy road, he knows that there was no point of complaining since he was one of the few heroes available, other heroes were too busy patrolling further places, what's worse is that his speciality is pyro which does not go well in this condition, constantly regulating his warm aura to fight back the coldness.
After hours of wandering around the town looking for any criminals snooping around, Hero gives up patrolling and decides that he should go home and rest.
Looking around one last time, seeing that most streets were empty, vehicles rarely passed by, roads filled with snow and it's nearly midnight. He was already warned that the blizzard is approaching, but Hero, being a crime fighter and sole protector of the city, has duties to keep an eye on the dangers.
As Hero is about to retreat, he heard a strange– shuffling noises coming from the other side of the block. Curiously, Hero went to investigate the source, only for him to stop at the front of the museum entrance. The building is closed, obviously. But there were no guards nearby. No one is around. Nothing.
"That's strange... shouldn't there be anyone guarding this place?" It's unusual for the museum to be this lonely as if the place is long abandoned, as if no one has ever been here. Especially if the museum is filled with Gold and Antiques! 'definitely something is going on here' He thought. Hero inspected further until he reached the back of the museum—
There, the source of the shuffling noise is coming from the large vine stretching and growing taller, like a ladder clinging to the museum wall, heading to the roof of the building with a person on top of the vine.
Hero presumes that they must be planning to steal something inside the museum when no one is around to guard it. He needs to stop them fast! Hero immediately jump straight to the scene and forms a flame that burns down a large vine– causing the person on top to fall onto the ground. Owch! Hero regretted that, he could have killed the perso— fortunately they landed safely, thanks to the snow...Oh, nevermind.
The person criminal looked directly into his eyes in silent rage. Hero only squints, and immediately recognizes them...
[Villain with the ability of plants]
"Do you really need to do that, Hero? I gotta say it would be better if you didn't interrupt me that way." The villain spoke calmly, as if he didn't fall down to death moments ago.
"I won't let you do whatever you're doing, Villain. Not without my flames!"
"Ah, playing games I see." Villain stood up, brushing off the remaining snow at their fancy suit. "But I spare no time for games, pesky good doer. With each minute passes the snow will get stronger."
Villain waved his hands lazily, signaling something towards the hero. Hero couldn't figure out what the criminal was doing until a strange noise creeps behind him, suddenly— the vines quickly ambushed and wrapped around him, straining him on the spot. Small bits of thorns pierces through Hero's uniform making him hiss in pain, the cuts and scratches aren't deep enough but Hero is having none of it, he lit himself on fire, burning the vines wrapped around him into dust.
Hero faces the criminal only to see the villain disappear on sight. He felt irritated thinking that the villain distracted him and escaped, then he hears another shuffling noise on his right. The vines lunge at Hero again, this time Hero won't fall for the villain's unpredictable tactics, he forms a fire ball and shoots the vines before it reaches him. Hero waits for another attack but no vines came, nor the criminal show up.
"It's not nice when you hurt my plants like that"
A voice echoed somewhere, revealing the villain's location. In the dark alleyway... What a terrible hiding spot.
"Well maybe you should stop summoning it!" With Hero's fist clenched, he lunges where the villain is, aiming straight to his face but Villain simply creates a vine barrier, blocking Hero's attack. Hero's eyes wide in shock and immediately halt his strike, almost tripping. It was a close call that he was about to hit thorny vines with his own fist, thinking about it now cringes him.
Villain takes an upper hand before the crime fighter does, a vine coils up to Hero's ankle and flings him away not too far from Villain, thankfully landed on a thick blanket of snow. Hero yelps when the snow meets his open wounds making it sting. He tries and fails to get up when more vines wrap around him, dragging him back like a ragdoll towards Villain.
"Hmph, I don't want you interrupting my plans anymore, pesky hero. This is your chance to stay down or face the consequences" Villain scolded, tightening the vines around Hero.
"Hrk! Let- Me Go!!" Hero yells, thrashing around the thorny vines, desperately trying to free himself. The villain sighs, a thin vine wraps around Hero's neck, slightly choking him. Then a thorn's needle pierced through his neck.
"Ack- What was that for?!" The hero hissed.
The criminal only smirked and said nothing in reply, giving him a taunting expression, a taste of helplessness. Hero wanted badly to punch Villain's face, his grin makes Hero sick, but then he felt his body weakening, he couldn't feel his powers... wait- did Villain just–
"Relax~ hero, it's just something to keep you down" he reassured with mock sympathy, the good doer glares angrily, their distance is too close for comfort, Villain reaches out and lifts Hero's chin to face him. "And besides, you look like you need a rest"
Villain lets go of the hero. His head slumps downwards, vision begins to fade, conscious slowly dying out as he hears the villain walking away then Hero finally passes out.
In a decent city; you, a Civilian who works at the office peacefully. Yeah sure, stress and paperwork ruins the mood but it is nothing compared to your previous job where you're on the verge of tearing up inside from constant stress and fear.
It was months ago when you left your old job and returned back to your home city without telling anyone, you felt out casted, overworked, and yet you were also underpaid. The environment is just too bad for your own good, luckily you didn't stay in that place for too long, you moved on to a better life.
You glance at the window, trying to calm yourself from the old memories that were eating you inside, right now, the view of the city is astounding, you don't see any chaotic and gifted people in this city. Instead, you see normal people who works and minding their own business.
Out of nowhere, a strange dark figure randomly appears in the middle of the city, hovering at the same level as your view, whilst you work at the higher floor of the building, and so you ponder...
'Were they levitating?'
"—But I thought anyone who was born with powers usually lives in the MAIN City?" You sighed. The city known for its advanced technology and home for powered people. The MAIN City is also one of the most successful cities in the country, aside from having a higher rate of criminals– there is a justice organization in that city that protects and stops powerful criminals so it should be good, right? Well nevermind that. Your main question is— what was this person doing here anyway? Traveling around? Looking for something? Someone? Or perhaps...
looking for you?
Your thoughts snapped and glanced at the figure again, they were no longer in sight, you looked in every direction but couldn't find them... At this moment you felt relieved, the thought of someone looking for you sounds ridiculous. It's not like anyone would care that you disappeared from your old workplace, right? The person could be just wandering around then going off somewhere. "Haha yeah.. that might be it". You shrug off your silly thoughts and continue to work.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~
Hours have passed, at the corner of your eye, few co-workers gathered at the glass window, chattering about a smoke outside from one of the buildings. Curiously, you got up from your workstation and joined the crowd. Some argue that there could be a fire out there, or a ticking timer waiting to be unleashed, No! It could be a terrorist attack happening. You rolled your eyes at their ridiculous argument, It's probably just a minor problem like a fire accident or whatever.
Moments later, a loud boom roared to your ears. The shockwave from the explosion shattered the glass window, causing you to stumble backwards by force. Fortunately no one was hurt –but it gets worse, the ground shakes violently making you and everyone lose balance and collapse onto the floor.
Terrified Screams echoed around the building, you began to panic as well, the idea of a terrorist attack truly scares you. Is the city under attack? Is there a war going on? Could it be the person you saw earlier had done this...? You hoped it wasn't the case. Your home city isn't prepared to fight a powerful enemy, it won't stand a chance against them and you know it.
You glace at the now-shattered window, small portion of the city is now destroyed, few buildings are on fire and at the center of the city; the same hovering figure is there again, this time it's closer to your view and just outside of your workplace. Your face went pale the moment you saw them because somehow.. Somehow, you knew who they are. It is none other than the infamous Supervillain from the MAIN City. The same city where you used to work at.
What is HE doing here?
Why is he attacking the city?
Why is he doing this? And why here?
You have questions with no answers, heartbeat rises in fear, you knew what Supervillain was capable of. After all, his powers were super strength and levitation, he was known for destroying government buildings with his machines, his brilliance of making crazy inventions and elaborate schemes is what everyone fears him. You had witnessed most of his schemes since your old job was to stop evil doers... Including him. That is before you left the MAIN City to change your career.
Oddly enough, his strange behavior is what concerns you, you had never seen him this angry. Usually, Supervillain only targets heroes and the government to mess with, but never hurt civilians. Ever since he came into this city, your HOME City. He destroyed everything on his path, not caring for the victims who were accidentally involved from his destruction. But then again, did something snap his mind that has caused him to do this? Is he after something important?
​
Suddenly his voice echoed, claiming that someone is in this city.
"I know you are here~ hiding somewhere in the corner. Why don't you come out and face me like a brave fighter you are."
What is he talking about, did Supervillain expects someone to show up and fight him by threatening the city? Well whatever it is, you just hope someone does show up and deal with him.
But how can there be if there are no powered gifted individuals in this city? Even the law enforcement is no match for him.
"[Hero] If you don't come out now you will face the consequences, you don't want the cause of these pathetic civilians' death because you're a coward to show up, do you?"
While everyone who was with you already evacuated the place. You only stood there in shock. Hearing that name again hits straight to your core. Supervillain threatens to destroy your home city only because he was looking for a certain person, he was looking for YOU.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~
You used to be a crime stopper from the MAIN City who only took down petty criminals and thieves. It was the role you were given based on how useful your powers can be. They said your flying ability wasn't considered useful enough to fight an actual villain, which it hurts you slightly. You were also a group member of the "official heroes" who assisted and helped them. You're not a known member because your efforts weren't seen in the public's eye. Most known heroes were interviewed live about their heroic work while your role wasn't even news worthy.
You didn't know how he found you in this city, you never told anyone that you left! The heroic job sucked and the salary wasn't enough for your living. Your efforts are barely shown in the public and yet this particular villain went out to find you as if you were a wanted person? Huh?? You rarely interact with any of the villains, let alone him! -Or was this about the last time when you destroyed one of his precious machines and he went mad-crazy about it so he went after you as revenge? you were just doing your job why did he have to be so worked up about it?!
Supervillain call you out again, giving you the last chance to face him before more destruction occurs... But you didn't want to be a Hero. The idea of revealing yourself as a city protector truly sickens you. Sure, you may have done it before but you have your reasons why you left the Heroes league. You just remain silent and pretend that you didn't have any idea what he's talking about. It's no longer your responsibility to get rid of evil forces, or to stop a delusional master criminal. The law enforcement would deal with him... Right?
After a while, still no sign of you showed up, Supervillain decided that waiting isn't worth it and made a move. He simply hovered to a building that was in front of him. —You panicked the moment you saw him going straight into your view. You thought he knew where you were, that he had found your presence inside the building— suddenly the floor vibrates beneath you and a loud explosion can be heard coming from the first floor.
He is destroying the building.
Emergency stairs and exit are located much below your floor and if that were to be destroyed you'll be stuck in the very top floor with no way out! Then your worst fear happens, the entire floor collapses beneath you, the building is collapsing and the lower floors are destroyed. You and other few unfortunate people who were stuck would perish inside the building.
The thought of flying out of the building comes in your mind, your soft heart of heroic complex tempts you to save the remaining people inside the building. But for your own sake, you disregarded the idea, you yourself needed to be saved too. The moment you hover to jump yourself out of the window, a big heavy piece from above crashes onto you. Plummeting you down along with a few people from below floors. You crash landed on the first floor and the debris pinned you to the ground and you blacked out.
Mumbling screams echoes through your ears, every sound feels like you're underwater. You can't see things clearly and your head hurts. You try to move blindly but something heavy forces you down, restricting your movement. The weight above you slowly crushes your ribs causing your whole body to ache in pain, breathing is hardly at ease and you pass out again.
Regaining your consciousness a few minutes later you felt the ground thump, faint footsteps coming towards you, someone must have seen you, what a relief. But You still couldn't move nor see the rescuer, an object still weighing you down. The person stopped walking and felt them knelt down beside you. A gloved hand reaches your forehead, gently caressing you for comfort. Their presence feels familiar... Their hand roams near your collarbone and to your neck, looking for your pulse. Once they felt your heartbeat they sighed in relief, and whispered something to your ears.
"Found you"
That voice... Oh you know who that voice belongs, someone you hoped you'll never encounter, someone you hoped it's just a nightmare from the pain you are feeling right now. But you know that's not the case, out of everyone. Why... why did it have to be him? Why would he go this far to find you? What does he even want from you?
The heavy object pinning you down lightens, Supervillain removes a big concrete and small debris burying you. Your body feels free from the pressure but the pain doesn't disappear, he inspects the damages he had caused and mumbles something. You felt sick that he was the one saving you instead of medics that surround the area, but you were in a place where no rescuers can reach you, and he knows that.
Strong arms wrapped around your back and your legs, carrying you out of the collapsed building. Agonizing pain spreads around your body with each sudden movement, you couldn't help but whimper in pain.
"Shh shh, it's okay little hero, you're safe, everything will be alright"
The villain murmurs. You wanted to say something but words couldn't form out of your lips. You tried to squirm from his grip to get away from him, but your efforts were futile, his hold only tightens around you. You gave up fighting after a few struggles and slumped on his arms. You didn't want to see his face yet you know that he's grinning, that he holds his hero at his mercy.
You feel the ground beneath you disappear, you don't feel him walking at all. That's when you know that he's flying, taking you back to a place where you used to defend the previous city, leaving your precious home to crumble.
"You missed a lot of events lately, dear hero. Worry not we'll catch up soon."
Chaos continues to rise up, fires and destruction spread across the city. Many victims lost, some even attempted to call out the "so-called hero" to save them. But the savior isn't with their home anymore...
