pairing: barbarian! katsuki bakugou x reader (female)
summary: a bard approaches a lone barbarian in search for a story to tell. Who could have known that the barbarian end up being such a romantic tale.
notes: fantasy au, fluff, strangers to lovers, slow burn, bakusquad, barbarian bakugou
word count: 8.2k
part list
part two: chapter list
a/n: happy new year all! i apologise for being so spotty with my writing and I'll do my best for my few lovelie readers <3
You’d think that after navigating the team safely through Niniel’s Veil, Bakugou would start trusting you more to lead. The barking directed at you made you wonder why you held such an expectation. Of course, Bakugou would be challenging you again. It wasn’t that he didn’t trust you, he does (he will never admit it outloud). But his need to take charge always got the better of him. It’s another day and it starts with the two of you bickering over which route to take on the way to Edresa, each stubbornly defending your own path. Bakugou being a hardass didn’t really surprise you but could anyone blame you for having hope for a peaceful day?
As soon as you realised Edresa was your next stop, you reached out to an old friend, a fellow cartographer who you met in a temple. He prayed next to you and before you knew it, a conversation started. The both of you worked together on a few projects, travelling and mapping out locations until he left for Edresa. Last you heard from him, he had risked mapping out the catacombs himself and actually done it. You never doubted him, you simply were aware of how dangerous those catacombs were. Hence why you contacted him last night. He was one of the few with firsthand knowledge of the place, and his insights could prove invaluable. But that was a problem for later. Right now, the immediate challenge was arguing with this thick-skulled, contentious dragonborn at your side.
Once again, Bakugou was arguing about the best route to take. You swear, each time he sees a shortcut, he’s adamant on taking it no matter the danger. His words irritated the skin of your ears, it were as if he was more relentless, more annoying if he was up against you.
“Do you really want to go through there? It’s laced with traps,” you said, exasperation lacing your voice as you pointed to the narrow and dark trail Bakugou insisted on taking. A map didn’t have to tell you not to venture through there. Simply based on the fact this trial went through a thicket of woods as well as it wasn’t lit, there wasn’t a good reason to go through it. But sure— it ‘cuts 30 minutes out’ of the journey.
In response to your exasperation, a defiant glare stares into you, unbothered by your concerns. “It’ll be faster than taking the long way around,” he countered, his tongue clicked sharply. With a stubbornly confident expression on his face that you’ve grown tired of.
Trying to keep your frustration in check, you rubbed your temples. Your fingers attempted to massage the forming headache away, though it would prove it be useless. “Yeah, faster right up until we end up stuck in some pit or fighting off whatever’s guarding that shortcut. You can’t just rush through every obstacle, Bakugou.” You must have said this to him a thousand times at this point. How did you both always argue like this?
He huffed, crossing his arms as he continued to scan the path ahead. “We don’t have time to waste tiptoeing around every little problem. We ain’t got time to lose, and I’m not about to let some overgrown trail slow us down.”
And so the cartographer and barbarian continued to squabble, neither willing to give an inch. Their argument crackled in the air as the rest of the group hung back, watching the exchange like a familiar, albeit slightly ridiculous, routine. They could only shake their head in amusement, probably betting on who would win again. Despite your differences, Niniel’s Viel had built trust between you. Even in moments like these where you both disagreed on the right path forward, that trust was buried underneath it all. A part of you always knew that the real challenge wasn’t just getting to Edresa; it was navigating each other’s stubbornness along the way.
It was a familiar push-and-pull, the kind that had defined your partnership from the beginning. Bakugou’s impatience was as fierce as ever, only matched by your persistence to avoid unnecessary risks. But both knew that getting stuck in a shouting match wasn’t helping anyone.
You took a deep breath, forcing yourself to rein in the irritation simmering beneath the surface. A deep breath that grounded you from throwing a punch. “Look, Bakugou,” you began, trying to inject some calm into your tone. “I get that you want to get there fast, I do too. But if we rush through every shortcut that looks promising, we’re going to end up making more trouble for ourselves. We need to be smart about this.”
Bakugou’s eyes narrowed, but the fire in his gaze dimmed slightly as he weighed your words. He ran a hand through his hair, trying to come to a decision or at least come to some middle ground. “Fine,” he muttered, though it was clear it took effort to say. “We’ll check out your route first. But if it looks like a dead end or a waste of time, we take mine. No dragging it out, no arguing. Just a final decision.”
You hesitated, surprised by the compromise but not willing to let the opportunity slip. Was he in a good mood of some sorts? “Alright,” you agreed, nodding. “We’ll do a quick scout of my route. If it’s clear and manageable, we go that way. If not, we double back and take your shortcut. But if we hit any traps on your path, you’re buying the first round when we get to Edresa.”
Bakugou snorted at your words. He’s buying the first round if there’s traps? As long as they got to Edresa quicker, he didn’t care. A smirk broke through his frustration, amused by your little proposal. “Deal. And when my way turns out to be faster, I’m holding you to that. No whining when I’m right.” His arms crossed over his chest, that smirk still present on his lips, “Oh, and if we don’t run into any traps, you’re paying.”
You rolled your eyes at his words. That trail would be littered with traps, the question really was if they could avoid it all. Still you couldn’t help but grin at his added condition. “Sure, tough guy. We’ll see who’s buying who drinks.”
With the compromise set, the group moved forward to check out both routes. The tension settled into something lighter— it wasn’t perfect, but you both knew there’d be more arguments ahead. A reality where you both don’t argue does not exist. Though even if your styles clashed, you could find a way to work together. In the end, the group took the shortcut, but that didn’t necessarily mean Bakugou had won. Sure, the route was faster, but speed came with its own risks. Risks that quickly became all too real when the group stumbled into an unexpected trap. Truth be told, it wasn't everyone who got caught up in the mess.
It was just you, out of all people. You.
Shocking really when you are the most cautious one in the group. The one who preached for the longer but safer route. And yet it was you who fell into the trap. You blamed it entirely on Bakugou being his usual, loud-mouthed self. You were focused on trekking carefully through this unknown path, carefully scanning the uneven ground. Trying to avoid suspicious bumps that could potentially be traps.
However, it’s not easy for you to concentrate when Bakugou’s voice boomed with some smart-ass remark. You couldn’t even remember what he was saying. Whatever stupid comment he made, it broke your concentration and you took a seemingly harmless step forward. The ground gave way, and a rope trap snapped around your legs, yanking you up into the air. A loud yelp tore through your throat as it zipped you up. Now there you were, dangling upside down from a tree, your legs bound by a rope, arms crossed tightly over your chest and an unmistakably pissed-off look on your face.
Meanwhile, Bakugou was having the time of his life. He doubled over, his laughter echoing through the forest. His rambunctious laughter threatened to alert whoever set the traps up. Not like he cared. What he cared about was this priceless sight of you sprung up by your legs. “No fucking way,” he guffawed, clutching his sides. “Look who got caught in the damn trap! I thought you were the one meant to help me out of traps.”
You shot him a withering glare, eyes twitching in frustration and embarrassment. Your cheeks burned as your patience thinned out with each laugh. Just your luck. “Yeah, keep laughing, loudmouth,” you snapped, the words had a bite to them. Clearly annoyed but you were stuck. And the person who’s meant to be helping was bursting with laughter like this was the funniest thing he’d ever seen. “This wouldn’t have happened if you weren’t yelling your head off about god-knows-what. You’re louder than a damn war horn.”
Bakugou wiped a tear from his eye, still grinning as he approached. Even his strut was irritatingly cocky. “Oh, so now it’s my fault you can’t watch your step? Face it, you just got sloppy. Happens to the best of us.” He leaned in, mockingly inspecting the ropes. His fiery eyes twinkled with amusement as he met your glare. “Or maybe you just wanted me to save you. Didn’t know you were so eager.”
“Fuck you.” You spat out, refusing to give him any sort of satisfaction. You began to struggle in your confinements, wondering if you could slip out. But each wiggle only came with disappointment. It really was up to the bonehead to get you down. “Just get me down, Bakugou, before I decide hanging upside down is better than listening to you gloat.”
He smirked, taking his time as he inspected the mechanism holding the trap. “Nah, I think I’ll take my time. Good view from down here. Besides, maybe you’ll learn to appreciate my directions more when you’re not too busy tripping over your own feet.”
You huffed, swinging slightly as you tried to maintain what little dignity you had left. “Oh, I’m appreciating something, alright. Mainly that you’re still as insufferable as ever.”
Bakugou finally cut the rope (without warning, of course) and you dropped to the ground in an ungraceful heap. You let out a low groan from the harsh fall. To ease the ache you felt on your head, your hand rose to rub the back of your skull. Was it really too much to give a warning next time? In turn, he extended a hand, still wearing that smug smirk that you wanted to punch off. “Next time, maybe you’ll actually listen.” his voice rumbled with amusement.
You grabbed his hand, pulling yourself up with a huff. Great, now he was going to be insufferable about this. Was this going to last for the whole day? A week? You barely spare him a glance as you straighten up, muttering bitterly in response. “Or maybe I’ll just find a better way to tune you out.”
As you dusted yourself off and shot Bakugou one last glare, the rest of the group finally caught up, having heard the commotion. Mina was the first to arrive, her legs skipping over to catch a glimpse of what was going on. She took one look at the scene: the remnants of the trap, your dishevelled appearance, and Bakugou’s still-present smirk. Mina immediately burst into laughter. At this point, you’ve accepted that this wouldn’t be let down for a while.
“Oh my god, no way!” Mina exclaimed as she tried to catch her breath. She honestly couldn’t believe she missed this. If only she walked quicker, perhaps then she could gotten a glimpse. “You? Caught in a trap?! I wish I’d seen it from the start!”
Kirishima stepped by Mina, hand going through his red locks. He couldn’t hide the wide grin already forming on his face. “You two are always at it, huh?” he said, shaking his head as he glanced between you and Bakugou. “But seriously, are you okay?” His concern was genuine, but with the way his lips twitched, it was clear that he was holding back a laugh.
“Yeah, yeah, I’m fine,” you grumbled, brushing off the last bits of dirt. “Just a little caught off guard, that’s all.” You shot a look at Bakugou, who was still grinning like he’d won some kind of prize. You were just waiting for everyone’s reactions so everyone could move on and continue with the journey.
Sero and Denki came running up just in time to hear the tail end of your conversation. Sero raised an eyebrow, taking in the scene with a wry smile. His hands found his hips as he studied the scene. “Let me guess, Bakugou’s shortcut, right?” he asked, smirking at the confirmation in your eyes. It was spelled out just by the expression on your face.
Denki began to guffaw at the realisation. In between his laughs, he pointed between the two of you. “You guys are always bickering and getting each other into trouble.” He said, another grin joining the group.
“For the record, it wasn’t my fault.” you shot back, attempting to defend yourself. Though you couldn’t help but smile a little at their reactions. Seeing everyone laugh and lighten up did make you feel warm. Even if you were the butt of the joke.
Bakugou rolled his eyes at your flimsy defence, still replaying the memory of you falling for the trap. Still riding the wave of watching you hung upside down, needing his help. “Keep telling yourself that,” he scoffed, snickering at the glare you shot him.
Kirishima clapped a hand on Bakugou’s shoulder, still grinning. “You really shouldn’t tease her so much, man. But I guess that’s just how you two work, huh?”
“But hey, if this is how you guys get along, I’m all for it. Makes the journey a lot more entertaining.” Denki joined in once he finally stopped laughing.
Sero leaned against a tree. After learning that you fell into a trap, he checked the tree for any traps so he wouldn’t be next. “Let’s just try to make it to Edresa without getting tied up again, alright? We’ve got enough to worry about without you two at each other's necks.” he commented, still grinning.
You couldn’t help but roll your eyes, easing up as the group joked around. As the laughter faded, the group prepared to continue on. Despite how unpleasant it was to fall into a trap, it meant Bakugou owed the group a round of drinks. But you also couldn’t complain too much about his methods. Taking the shortcut had saved precious time, and now the group was only two more hours from the city of Edresa. The mood had lightened considerably, with everyone already talking about settling into a cosy inn and indulging in some hot, freshly cooked meals after days of surviving on dry rations.
As the party trudged along the final stretch of their journey to Edresa, the conversation inevitably turned to the catacombs and the mysterious informant you had contacted for guidance. Curiosity rippled through the group, and one by one, they began asking about your mysterious friend. The one with the knowledge of the labyrinthine tunnels hidden beneath Edresa. It wasn’t lost on anyone that navigating such a place would require more than just maps and instinct.
“So, who’s this contact of yours?” Sero asked, adjusting his pack as he shot you a curious glance. “Anyone we need to worry about?”
You shook your head, a small smile playing at the corners of your lips. “No, nothing like that. He’s a friend though he is rather reserved. Not the talkative type, but he knows the catacombs better than anyone. His name is Tokoyami, an Aarakocra I’ve worked with before. If there’s anyone who can give us the layout of those tunnels, it’s him.”
Mina tilted her head as she listened to your words. Another question flew your way, “Tokoyami? What’s he like? Is he going to guide us through the catacombs?”
You hesitated, considering your response thoughtfully. How does one describe him? “He’s… noble and also very focused. He doesn’t do small talk. He’s not likely to guide us himself, though. He’s got his own code, and he doesn’t stray far from it. But his maps and insights are solid, and he’ll share what he knows as long as we don’t waste his time.”
Bakugou’s brow arched at your words, trying to form some sort of image of this mysterious friend of yours. “He better not just be another pain in the ass.” He grumbled, adjusting the equipment on his back as he trudged on.
“You’re the pain in the ass Bakugou.” You swiftly jabbed back, shaking your head as you continued to describe the Aarakocra. “Tokoyami’s the type who thinks deeply before he decides on anything. If he’s helping, it’s because he believes there’s a reason to. He doesn’t take to guiding parties, though. Doesn’t see it as his responsibility. He’s more likely to hand over his notes and expect us to figure it out ourselves.”
“Hey, as long as he’s giving us something useful, that’s good enough for me. We just need a solid map and a little direction. We can handle ourselves, especially if you’re here as our guide.” Kirishima commented with a shrug, confident in your skills and not too worried about the next adventure.
“So, no stories, no friendly advice? Just business?” Denki asked once more, seeming slightly deflated at the idea of Tokoyami’s reserved nature.
You smiled, knowing exactly what Denki meant. “Just business. But trust me, the information he has is worth more than any conversation. The catacombs are no joke. If there’s anything lurking down there, Tokoyami’s maps will keep us one step ahead.”
The conversation revolving around Tokoyami died down and the group moved on to other topics to fill the journey. As the group continued toward Edresa, each were curious to what this segment would hold for them. The prospect of exploring the catacombs was daunting, but knowing that they weren’t going in blind offered some comfort. They had you and Tokoyami’s expertise as support. You could manage the catacombs so long as you had one of the Aarakocra’s maps. Even so, you knew he would be watching from the shadows in case anything happened.
Two hours flew by and the group finally reached Edresa. Its grand city unfolding before them as they passed through its towering gates. The mere moment you stepped foot on Edresa’s grounds, the rejuvenating energy of the city lifted your spirits. It didn’t take a glance to see the stark contrast between the bustling city and the dangerous paths they had travelled to get here. The streets were alive with movement, filled with a flurry of colours and sounds that struck you the moment you crossed into the city.
Merchants hawked their wares from vibrant stalls, their voices mingling with the clatter of wheels on cobblestone and the rhythmic beat of distant music. Children darted between market stands, laughing and chasing one another in games. Street performers entertained passersby with feats of magic, acrobatics, and music, their displays drawing crowds of curious onlookers. The air was rich with the scent of spices and muddled compilation of aromas. This was Edresa.
You took it all in, scanning the busy streets with the trained eye of a cartographer accustomed to navigating unfamiliar terrain. Edresa’s charm was undeniable, with its winding alleys, towering spires, and the constant hum of activity that made the city feel like it had a pulse of its own. It wasn’t your first time here but the city had such life that was impossible to ignore. But the allure of the city’s surface was only a distraction from the ancient, hidden world that lay beneath its foundations.
“We’ll find a place to rest first,” you called over your shoulder, motioning for the others to follow as you threaded your way through the busy crowd. “A good inn where we can get some proper food and a decent night’s sleep. We’ll need to be sharp when we head into the catacombs.”
Bakugou grunted in agreement, his eyes scanning the surroundings with a mix of scrutiny and mild irritation at the crowded chaos. His broad shoulders pushed past people as he tried to keep up with you. “Can’t argue with that. We’ve been roughing it too long. Need to get everyone back on their feet.”
Mina was already admiring the vibrant shops and colourful fabrics displayed in windows. She had already decided that she needed to shop. “I love it here!” she exclaimed, spinning around to take in the city’s sights. “First stop: a hot bath. Second stop: shopping!” She caught your eye, and you nodded with a smile, knowing she’d been craving a break from the endless wilderness. You too shared the same sentiment and couldn’t wait to take a moment to live in civilization. Even if it were for just a bit.
Sero and Denki were equally taken by the city’s lively atmosphere, pointing out different food stalls and eyeing the local street food with keen interest. “Think they have any of those skewers you talked about?” Denki asked as he licked his lips, taking a sniff at the wafting aroma.
“Only one way to find out,” Sero replied with an eager grin, already planning to hit up one of the stalls.
Kirishima stuck close by, keeping an eye on the group’s supplies and making sure nothing got left behind in the bustle. Making sure no pesky pickpockets came by and swiped them. “Let’s get settled first,” he said, glancing between you and Bakugou. “We’ll be ready for anything once we’ve got our bearings.”
You led them through the winding streets, navigating the crowds with ease as you spotted the familiar sign of an inn. A sturdy, welcoming building with a swinging metal sign that read “The Silver Lantern.” It was a place you’d stayed at before: clean, comfortable, and just busy enough that no one would pay too much attention to a group like yours.
Pushing open the heavy wooden door, you were greeted by the warm glow of lanterns and the murmur of voices inside. The inn smelled of roasted meat, fresh bread, and the faint, comforting scent of old wood. It was exactly the kind of respite you all needed. Comfortable beds, actual baths and real food. You turned to the group, smiling at the sense of relief on their faces. “Welcome to civilization, everyone. Let’s get some rooms, some food, and finally, a decent night’s rest. Tomorrow, we figure out how to tackle those catacombs.”
With that, the group settled into the inn, the promise of a warm meal and a soft bed lifting everyone’s spirits. But even as the city’s comforts wrapped around you, just underneath you were the catacombs you all would have to venture through soon. For now, though, you let yourself savour the simple pleasure of being somewhere safe and warm. Soon enough, you all would be risking your lives once more for the next artefact.
Even after the full day of odd jobs, the group were mindful of their dwindling coin purses. You guys still had to go shopping. Rations, health pots, equipment– all sorts that hadn’t been purchased just yet. So the group opted for two rooms for the night, a decision that was equal parts practical and amusing. Stingy or not, it was enough for a comfortable stay. You and Mina lucked out, sharing a cozy, neatly furnished room with two soft beds and a small window overlooking the bustling streets below. Meanwhile, the four men… Bakugou, Kirishima, Sero, and Denki were crammed into the adjoining room, a sight that had you both chuckling when you saw the broad-shouldered warriors squabbling over bed space.
As you and Mina unpacked, you could hear faint bickering through the thin walls, Bakugou’s frustrated grumble unmistakable as he argued with Denki about who was hogging the covers. Mina flopped onto her bed with a contented sigh, stretching out her limbs and kicking off her boots with a flourish. Thank god it was just the two of you. You didn’t dare think of sharing a room with those guys. The muffled sounds of bickering drifted through the thin walls separating your room from the boys’. You exchanged an amused glance, pausing to listen as the distinct voices of your companions filtered through, each one layered with its own brand of annoyance and humour.
“Oi, Kirishima, you’ve got to move! You’re hogging all the space,” Denki’s voice rang out, already whining and complaining. It hadn’t been that long since everyone’s settled in the room.
“Man, I’m not that big!” Kirishima defended, but the creak of the bed suggested otherwise. He sat up, glaring at the messy pile of gear that Denki haphazardly threw on the bed.“You’re the one taking up half the bed with all your gear.”
Sero’s laughter followed, scanning the situation. Obviously there was only one solution. “Guys, seriously? It’s just like babysitting kids. Just throw Denki on the floor if he’s that much of a problem.”
“Wait—! Don’t actually– Kirishima–!” A hard thump followed through.
Mina barely stifled her giggles as she pulled her hair back, tying it up as she listened along. “Sounds like a mess already. Can you believe they’re fighting over bed space? It’s like they’ve never shared a room before.”
Bakugou’s yelling cut through the rest, commanding some semblance of peace and quiet. “Will you all shut up? If anyone’s getting the floor, it’s Sparky. I’m not dealing with him tossing and turning all night.”
Denki’s indignant voice piped up again as he started to rise from being thrown onto the floor. “Hey! Why do I have to be on the floor? Kirishima’s the one taking up half the room with his fat ass, and Bakugou’s the one who snores!”
“When have I ever snored?!”
Mina snorted, covering her mouth to suppress her laughter. The both of you didn’t think free entertainment came with the room. “Honestly, can you imagine having to deal with that all night? We got so lucky.”
You nodded, trying not to laugh as Bakugou’s threats and Denki’s whining blended into a chaotic, comical symphony. “Yeah, no thanks. I’d rather have a little peace and quiet. Plus, I don’t think I could handle Bakugou snoring in my ear all night.”
A crash could be heard in the middle of your conversation, earning a laugh from the both of you. Mina leaned back against her pillow as she rummaged through her bag. Her fingers swiping through her pack as she spoke once more. “Or Denki whining about every little thing. I’d be tempted to smother him with a pillow. This” She lifted her head up and gestured around the quaint room, “is perfect. It’s like a little slice of heaven after everything we’ve been through.”
You couldn’t agree more. The fluffy bed and Mina's comforting company was truly all you needed right about now. You leaned against the wall as you unpacked a few of your belongings. “It really is. We deserve this, you know? Just some time to unwind without worrying about traps or getting lost.”
Pulling out a fresh set of clothes, Mina picked out something light and comfortable for the hot springs. The sight of it also had you pulling out a simple garment for the baths. “Speaking of unwinding, I am so ready to hit those hot baths. My muscles are screaming after all that walking.”
She didn’t have to convince you. For you had been anticipating the soothing waters since you got here. From prior stays here, the one thing you looked forward to was this bathhouse. “Yeah, let’s go before the guys beat us to it. I’ve been dreaming of a proper soak since we got out of Niniel’s Veil.” you hummed as you tilted your head towards the door.
With a shared grin and the sounds of the boys’ bickering still echoing faintly behind you, the two of you quickly changed and made your way down to the inn’s hot baths. The path led you through a narrow hallway, lit by warm lanterns and lined with rows of shelves stocked with towels. The bathhouses were tucked away behind the main building, surrounded by a low wooden fence that offered privacy to their guests. A fellow attendant offered towels and led you both to the arranged baths.
Humidity hit you as soon as you stepped through the wooden gate. Inside were two large wooden baths: one filled with hot water that would ease your tender muscles and another filled with cool water to freshen yourself up. Wisps of steam rose from the surface, curling up into the air like ghostly tendrils, illuminated by the soft, flickering glow of lanterns hung around the perimeter. The lanterns bathed the area in a warm, golden light, casting playful shadows on the walls and making the entire space feel like a warm safe haven.
Mina dipped a toe into the water, shivering in delight as the warmth seeped through her skin. “Oh, this is perfect,” she sighed, sinking slowly into the hot, steaming pool. She let out a contented groan, her head tipping back as she submerged up to her shoulders. “I needed this so badly. It’s like all the stress is just melting away.”
You followed her in, the water embracing you with a soothing heat that eased the tension in your muscles. The heat instantly welcomed your body, the warmth seeping into your skin. “Yeah, I didn’t realise how sore I was until now,” you admitted, closing your eyes as you leaned back against the smooth stones. “Feels like the first real break we’ve had in ages.”
Heat massaged the tired muscles and eased your usually alert senses. Neither fought the relaxing atmosphere and simply melted into it. You shut your eyes as you leaned back, resting your head on the edge of the bath. For a bit, there was a shared silence between the two of you. Slowly emerging from her daze, Mina glanced at you with a softening smile as the steam curled around you both. “I’m really glad you decided to stick with us,” she whispered quietly, letting her voice break the quiet. “Niniel’s Veil was no joke, and I know it wasn’t easy… but having you there made a huge difference.”
You opened your eyes, meeting her gaze through the rising steam. Hearing the sincerity in her voice. Coming on this journey was just by chance, but… “Honestly? I’m glad I stuck around too. I’ve been on my own so much that I forgot what it’s like to actually have people you can count on.” you admitted in a careful voice, as if the admission were fragile.
At your words, Mina couldn’t help but smile. A part of her had wondered if you stayed on out of polite obligation. But it was clear that you were part of their family. Her eyes glimmered brightly even in the dim lantern light. “I get that. And you did more than just stick around, you’ve been leading us through this crazy mess, keeping us on track. I know we all joke around, but we’d be lost without you.”
You laughed softly at her comment, shaking your head. “Trust me, it’s been a learning curve. But… I wouldn’t have it any other way. You guys are fun and we all work well together. Even with Bakugou.”
Mina managed a short laugh at your closing statement, rolling her eyes playfully. “Yeah, well, Bakugou’s Bakugou. But I think even he’s glad you’re with us, even if he’d rather die than say it.”
A comfortable silence blanketed the both of you, the gentle bubbling of the springs and the occasional distant chirp of critters from the outside filled the space. You closed your eyes once more and let the weight of the journey finally lift from your shoulders. All the worries and stresses falling off your skin and into the heated waters. Niniel’s Veil had given you a headache throughout the journey, and now with Edresa, there were new things to worry about. Yet you held no regrets being here.
“I think… I needed this,” after a while you spoke up, keeping your voice low as you arranged your thoughts. “Not just this bath, but everything. The challenge, the team… It's been a long time since I felt like I was part of something bigger.”
Your companion listened with a serene smile. Her lips part as she formulated a response. “...Yeah?” A hum left her mouth as she recalled the past journey through the twisting thicket, “Well… Niniel’s Veil was just the beginning. There’s so much more ahead, but we can handle it all so long as we’re together. Hopefully, you’ll stick around for that long.”
Her words quelled a certain longing in your heart. Something you wished to keep to yourself for now. Nothing was said, you only stared up at the ceiling to ponder.
Being distracted with your thoughts allowed Mina to glance at your skin. Mina’s eyes lingered on your form for a moment, her gaze drifting to the intricate tattoos that adorned your skin. The golden markings were elegant and mysterious, winding across your arms and shoulders like threads of light, their patterns telling a story only you knew. She had always been curious about them, fascinated by the way they seemed to shimmer faintly under the water’s surface, but she knew better than to pry.
She still remembered how you’d instinctively hidden them back in Niniel’s Veil when the two of you had been at the natural hot springs. The way you had shifted your position, almost self-consciously, to shield away these markings. Mina wondered what those tattoos meant. Were they symbols of something painful, or perhaps something sacred. Maybe a memory was tied to them? Whatever it was, you kept it close and guarded. The truth was drawn into your skin but only you were able to read it.
Mina opened her mouth as if to ask, but then closed it, deciding against it. After seeing how secretive you were about the tattoos, maybe you had your own reasons. Personal ones that you weren’t ready to share yet. Mina might be curious but she figured with time you’d open up. Instead, she put on her warm smile and broke the thoughtful silence. “You know,” her words playfully cut through the mist, “I think we’ve soaked long enough. As much as I love it here, there’s a whole city out there calling our names. We should go shopping– grab some fresh clothes and see what Edresa has to offer.”
Snapping from your thoughts, you glanced at her. Smiling back as you straightened up, preparing yourself to leave the baths. “Yeah, I could use a change of scenery,” you agreed, pushing yourself up from the water. Water sloshed around your figure as you wiped your face with a wet towel. “And I definitely wouldn’t mind getting out of these travel-worn clothes. Edresa’s got some of the best markets. We might find something that is actually cute.”
Delighted by your willingness to join her, she rose up with a cheery grin. Practically ready to get out to explore the city and do some well-deserved shopping. “Perfect! I’ve been dying to get my hands on something new. And hey, maybe we can pick up something for the boys, too! Assuming they would wear what we get them.”
You both laughed, stepping out of the tubs and wrapping yourselves in the soft, fluffy towels provided by the inn. The cool air hit your skin, and it felt refreshing after soaking in hot water for so long. As you dressed in fresh clothes and gathered your things, your mind raced with the potential wares you guys could get. Each passing thought got you pumped to begin browsing the stalls.
The streets of Edresa were still alive as you and Mina strolled through the teeming marketplace. The air was filled with the rich scents of spices, fresh flowers, and the sweet aroma of baked goods, drawing you deeper into the heart of the city. Each stall put out their best wares, hoping to catch the eyes of onlookers. Mina’s eyes sparkled as she browsed through racks of colourful fabrics and trinkets, eagerly pulling you along from one shop to the next. The two of you lost yourselves in the simple pleasure of window-shopping, laughing, and exploring all the city had to offer. As you moved through the vibrant market, you felt more at ease than you had in a long time. Whatever secrets you carried, they could wait for another day. Tonight was about embracing the here and now, in the company of a friend who understood what you needed.
All you could hear as you walked through were the sounds of compliments, bartering and the occasional burst of laughter. The fashion district of the market was a lively painting for the eyes. Stalls were overflowing with brightly coloured textiles, shimmering jewellery, and an array of finely crafted goods that represented Edresa’s rich culture and artistry. Mina’s excitement was infectious, darting from one vendor to the next, eyes wide with each finding. You could tell she needed this. She was basically buzzing as she admired pieces of fabric.
Eventually Mina gravitated toward the stalls draped in bright, eye-catching fabrics, eagerly picking out pieces that complemented her rosy pink skin. You watched as she tried a few articles of clothing on as you skimmed through the racks. Silks in vivid blues and purples, and a flowing dress in a dazzling shade of yellow that seemed to radiate against her complexion. She twirled in front of a mirror, admiring the way the fabric caught the light.
“These are perfect!” Mina exclaimed, holding up a billowy skirt embroidered with silver threads. “It’s been ages since I got something fun to wear.”
You smiled, equally captivated by the sheer variety of garments on display. Your eyes were drawn to a stall lined with more earth-toned garments. A few of your cream tunics had been torn, it was about time you needed a new one. The pieces were both practical and elegant, suited for travel but with a touch of refinement. You picked up a finely tailored tunic in this creamy ivory colour, embroidered with gold thread. It had subtle patterns reminiscent of the lush foliage of Niniel’s Veil. Details of leaves and flora around the collar and the ends of the tunic. It was light to the touch and suited your complexion. Your hands travel around the fabric to find that there were even discreet pockets sewn into the sides for practicality.
“This looks like it’s made for you,” Mina noted, picking up a dark leather belt that matched the tunic perfectly. The belt’s clasp was engraved with a swirling design, adding just enough detail to elevate the outfit. Gently accepting the belt, you inspected the leather and design. Mina definitely had a keen eye for fashion, this was a fantastic find.
You nodded as your fingers ran over the leather, wrapping it around the cream top. “It’s perfect. You got a good eye Mina.” Adding to the outfit, you grabbed a pair of dark brown breeches that complimented the outfit. The material would last through all the climbing and running you’ll end up doing. Honestly, you were just relieved to update your wardrobe after trekking through Niniel’s Veil for that long.
As you and Mina continued to browse through, you suddenly heard a familiar voice cutting through the noise of the market. “Well, look who’s playing dress-up,” Bakugou drawled, approaching you both with Kirishima, Sero, and Denki on his flank. The boys were holding skewers of grilled meats and sampling various street foods, clearly enjoying their exploration of Edresa’s culinary delights.
Denki grinned as he looked over your purchases. “Oh, fancy seeing you two here. You should really check the snack stalls next.” He barely finished his last words before he chomped down on the turkey leg he was holding. The seasoning and juices smearing over the corners of his lips.
Mina watched him munch on the meat barbarically, flipping her new shawl over her shoulder. “By the Hells… you eat like a brute.” she took a step back as she watched the blond devour his turkey leg. Denki was about to retort, not even swallowing the chunk of meat in his mouth until Mina stopped him. “Don’t talk with your mouth full–!”
Kirishima chuckled, holding up a skewer topped with glistening, roasted vegetables. “This city’s got some of the best food we’ve seen in a while. Can’t miss out on the experience.” He glanced at your new outfit and grinned wider. Gathering ideas that perhaps he should also do some clothes shopping next. “But I’ve got to admit, you guys are killing it. Nice to see you out of the usual travel gear.”
Smirking, Sero leaned in as he eyed Mina’s bright yellow dress. “Look at you, Mina. Trying to blind our foes with your tastes? I like it.”
Mina let out a haughty laugh, rolling her eyes with her arms sassily positioned on her hips. “I’m not taking advice from your sloppy ass. Not when I look better than you, even at my worst.” she shot back, nudging him playfully as she leaned in to steal a pork bun from the tray he was holding.
Bakugou, who had been silent until now, was appraising the outfit you had fixed up. His eyes lingered briefly on the tunic you held, assessing it quietly before he gave his verdict on your choices. Flicking his gaze up to meet yours, he finally speaks. “Not bad. At least you won’t look like you’ve been dragged through a swamp anymore,” he remarked, begrudgingly complimenting you as his hand reached out to feel the material. “Now if only you’d learn how to stay out of traps.”
You smirked, crossing your arms as you met his gaze. Amused by both his compliment and jab. “Yeah, yeah, and maybe if you’d learn how to keep your mouth shut, we’d get through this trip without half the trouble. You’re not going to let me forget the one time I fell into a trap huh?”
Kirishima laughed, clapping Bakugou on the shoulder. Tugging him along to continue their own adventures in the food section. “Come on, let’s not bother them when they’re finally looking like civilised adventurers… Now we just need to figure out how to get Bakugou to wear an actual top.”
“Shut up.” Bakugou scoffed, lightly elbowing Kirishima’s side for that comment. He turned back toward the food stalls, shoving his hands into his pockets.
You and Mina shared a smile, continuing to do more clothes shopping. Purchasing a few more articles of clothing for the trip ahead. Eventually the two of you joined the boys on their quest for food. The sky dipped into a honey hue as the lot of you returned to the inn, the golden light casting long shadows across the cobblestone streets. The day’s excitement slowly faded into weariness as you all settled into the inn’s common room, ready to collect on the round of drinks that Bakugou owed. The atmosphere was mellow, with the clinking of mugs and the murmur of conversation filling the space as you all gathered around a large wooden table.
The drinks flowed freely, and the food was hearty. A huge difference compared to the rations the group were subjected to whilst on the road. Like always, laughter and lighthearted banter passed between you all as you discussed the journey ahead. Kirishima was enthusiastically recounting some of the tougher fights you’d all faced, while Mina and Denki debated over what equipment the team would need. Which held more importance: rope or chalk?
In the midst of it all, the crystal pendant around your neck suddenly flashed, a soft, pulsating light that caught your attention immediately. It was a subtle flash but unmistakable. Someone was trying to reach you. The group continued to talk and laugh around you, but you knew you couldn’t ignore the call. You gently set down your mug, excusing yourself with a quick smile. “I’ll be right back,” you said, trying to keep your voice casual as you rose from the table. “Just need to check on something.”
Bakugou gave you a brief, questioning glance but didn’t press, while the others barely noticed as you slipped away. You made your way upstairs to your room, the noise of the common room fading behind you as you closed the door and moved to the small desk near the window. Removing the necklace from your neck, you carefully placed the pendant on the table.
The crystal pendant pulsed again as you touched it, a faint warmth spreading through your fingertips as you activated the connection. The light swirled and expanded, coalescing into a small, glowing orb that hovered just above the desk. The familiar voice of Tokoyami emerged from the light, low and serious. By the sound of his voice, you straightened up, already feeling on edge from how weighty his tone was.
“It’s good to see you’re still safe,” Tokoyami began, trying to keep a casual tone. It wasn’t of much use when you could sense the underlying concern. He hid it terribly. “I wished to brief you on what you’ll be facing tomorrow, but something has come to my attention that cannot wait.”
You leaned forward, listening intently. Tokoyami was not one to be alarmed easily, so whatever he had to say was worth your full attention.
“There have been fluctuations in the magic within the catacombs,” he continued, his voice dropping slightly as if speaking of something he’d rather not give form to. “It’s been growing more unstable, as if the very essence of the place is reacting to something or someone. And, more troubling, there has been a significant increase in cultist activity. They seem drawn to the disturbance, or perhaps they’re the cause of it.”
Your breath hitched slightly, but you kept your expression calm. Cultists were always a danger, but the thought of them being involved in something like this… it was concerning. And though Tokoyami didn’t say it outright, you both knew there was more at stake for you than for the others. You were different, marked in ways that made you vulnerable to certain kinds of attention. And this type of attention was one you couldn’t afford to attract.
“Be careful,” His voice sounded more grave now as he continued to warn you, “The cultists have been known to be persistent and they are particularly interested in those with unusual abilities. Keep a low profile, and don’t draw unnecessary attention to yourself. The catacombs are treacherous enough without adding this risk.”
“I’ll keep that in mind,” you replied as your mind swirled with anxiety. Swallowing hard as you attempted to keep your voice steady. “Thank you for the warning. We’ll be cautious.”
There was a brief pause, and then Tokoyami’s tone softened slightly. “You’ve always been resourceful, and I trust you’ll navigate this with the same skill you’ve shown before. But remember, you don’t have to face it alone. The others may not know everything, but they’re still your allies.”
The light from the orb flickered slightly, signalling the end of the conversation. “I’ll meet you all tomorrow as planned,” Tokoyami added, his voice returning to its usual, calm tone. “We’ll discuss the history of the catacombs and the map then. For now, rest and prepare. You’ll need your strength.”
With that, the light faded, leaving the room in quiet darkness. You sat back in your chair, letting out a slow breath as you absorbed the weight of Tokoyami’s words. The catacombs were dangerous, that much you had expected. But this added layer of threat. Insane wackjobs that were going to be a royal pain if the group ran into them. The presence of cultists was a complication you couldn’t ignore. You could only pray that you wouldn’t run into them.
Still, you tried to ease your worries. Your hands sliding up your arm to trace your tattoos before pulling the sleeve of your cardigan over it. Get a grip. A deep exhale slipped past your lips as the grip on your sleeve tightened. You’ve faced challenges like these before, ones that tested your limits and forced you into difficult situations. This would be no different. And Tokoyami was right. You weren’t alone. You had your friends, even if they didn’t know the full truth. That was enough. It would have to be enough.
After a moment, you rose from the chair. You had your warning, and tomorrow would bring whatever it would bring. For now, all you could do was return to the group and enjoy the rest of the evening. At the same time, mentally prepare for the worst.
As you made your way back downstairs, the sounds of laughter and conversation grew louder, welcoming you back into the warmth of the inn. Putting a smile on as you rejoined your friends, slipping back into the easy banter and friendship that had become your refuge. No matter what tomorrow held, you had tonight.
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a/n: i finished my thesis so things should be a lot more consistent :)) @chocogoldie @devils-adversary @l0kisbitch @miikii0 @onlyisaa @sleepisfortheweakpooh @helena-way07 @enzstr @qardasngan @rednicotine @318474hello @d4rlinxs @sgtrjivc @ky0ruuu @naliarefira @pro-herokatsukispubies @kitsunetori @emotionallysalty @disappointmentonly @icarusthekid
pairing: barbarian! katsuki bakugou x reader (female)
summary: a bard approaches a lone barbarian in search for a story to tell. Who could have known that the barbarian end up being such a romantic tale.
notes: fantasy au, fluff, strangers to lovers, slow burn, bakusquad, barbarian bakugou
word count: 7.1k
part list
part one: chapter list
a/n: I told myself this would be a oneshot and now it's accumulated to six chapters with no end in sight.
In the heart of this simple town, a rambunctious group of adventurers stumble through the night. Seeking refuge from the cold night. A towering barbarian leads— His broad shoulders clad in woolly animal fur that puffs upwards adding height to his figure. Over his red cape, a scimitar slings over his back serving as a warning to all. Irritation grows with each step, his red eyes darting around his surroundings for shelter.
“Tch.” a grumble leaving his throat as they trudge on, “How hard is it to find a damn inn?” annoyance laces the blonde’s voice. The pink skinned fighter and dragon shifter exchange glances, silently communicating through their facial expressions on how to mitigate Katsuki’s temper. After a brief and wordless discussion, Mina turns to the barbarian.
Attempting to ease the tension, she speaks gently. “Don’t blow a fuse just yet, we’ll find one soon,” Her bright pink skin stands out even in the dim setting, blush pink curls bouncing as she walks, “you’re not the only one who’s exhausted ya know.”. The barbarian rolls his eyes as he moves forward.
Their mindless bickering fills the cool air as they traverse through the town, searching for somewhere easy and simple to stay for the night. Folks that happened to pass by the group could feel their agitation seething from them. Their frustrations would be understood if one simply knew what they’ve been through. Heavy grunts and whiny complaints leaves their mouths as they search for an inn. Exhausted from finishing their recent commission that brought them on a long-winded journey.
Finishing their commission feels like a heavy weight has been lifted from the group’s shoulders. They’ve returned to town to meet with their employer for their reward. Despite how antsy the group is for their pay, they’ll have to wait until it’s day. At the very least, they can get some deserved rest after such a long journey.
A warm glow stops them in their tracks. There’s a bustling inn standing with pride in the centre of the town. The windows are aglow with a golden light, casting a warm, inviting hue onto the weathered cobblestone street below. To them, this inn is a warm haven against this cold night. It appears that their earlier frustrations seem to vanish with this finding. Atop the thatched roof there are wisps of smoke curling lazily from the chimney, carrying the comforting scent of wood, smoke and roasting meat. The smell alone causes their stomachs to grumble. Hunger finally hit them. How long have they been starving? Flickering lanterns hang on either side of the heavy wooden door, their flames dancing within their confines. Hanging above the entrance is a creaky sign emblazoned with the tavern’s name, “The Tipsy Hippogryph”.
The heavy wooden door creaks as it swings open, allowing the sounds and scents of the tavern to spill into the night. The tavern's walls, made of sturdy stone and timber, are adorned with flickering torches and a few faded tapestries. There is a cosy, golden glow over the room. Wooden tables and benches, scarred by years of use, are scattered across the floor, most occupied by patrons enjoying their evening. The low hum of conversation and occasional bursts of laughter create a comforting, lively ambiance. The tavern keeper, a burly man with a thick beard and a booming voice, moves deftly behind the bar, filling tankards with frothy ale and serving plates of hearty stew. His wife, a kind-eyed woman with a quick smile, greets the weary travellers.
“Evening.” She greets warmly, “Looking for rooms or just here for a bite?” It’s clear she’s experienced with her work. There’s a homely touch to her that puts one at ease. Her voice is pleasant with a maternal tone, it welcomes all that step foot into the inn.
Bakugou strides up to the counter, his imposing figure catching the attention of a few patrons. He simply ignores them and speaks to the innkeeper. “Two rooms, we’ll share.” He wastes no time getting straight to the point. Not really keen on small talk or talking in general.
The innkeeper gets to work immediately, flicking through the log book to search for the requested rooms. Her hands are fast to hand the barbarian the keys and inform him where they are located. “If yer hungry, our kitchen is still open.” she gestures to the busy meal area by her side. The place is scattered with patrons from all walks of life. Townsfolk, travellers and merchants. They sit hunched over their mugs, deep in conversation, while others sing raucously, their cheeks flushed from the ale.
At the sound of food, the adventurers do not waste any more time. They find a table by the fireplace. The blooming fire roars in the large hearth, its crackling flames adding to the tavern's warmth. The air is thick with the mingling aromas of roasting meat, fresh bread, and the sharp tang of spilled ale. The scent alone sends them to the edge of their hunger. Eagerly ordering a feast with an abundance of ale to satisfy their stomach. A barmaid weaves through the tables with practised ease, balancing trays laden with food and drink. She exchanges friendly banter with the regulars as she serves them.
In the corner, a minstrel plucks at a lute, singing a cheerful ballad that competes with the din of the crowd. His nimble fingers dance across the strings, and his voice, though not perfect, adds a layer of charm to the tavern's atmosphere. A few patrons clap along, and a couple of children, likely the tavern keeper's, dance near the hearth, their laughter ringing out above the noise. Candles set in iron sconces flicker, casting long shadows that shift and sway with the movement of the patrons. The wooden floorboards creak underfoot, worn smooth by countless feet over the years. The bar is a hub of activity, with patrons jostling for the keeper's attention, coins clinking as they pay for their drinks.
It wasn’t long for the barmaid to come by with their order. As she approached, the enticing smell of the freshly made food made their mouths water. Swiftly, she begins to place the platter onto the round, wooden table. In the centre of the table, golden-brown turkey legs are piled high on a simple steel plate. The skin is crispy and glistening with savoury juices. The sight teases the group as they wait patiently for the maid to finish her job.
A basket of freshly baked bread is placed beside the turkey legs. The bread was still warm, the crust crackling slightly as it cooled. The innkeeper had sliced the loaf thickly, revealing a soft, fluffy interior that begged to be torn apart and slathered with butter. Following that is a large bowl filled with baked potatoes. Each potato was perfectly roasted, the skins crispy and slightly salted. A dollop of melted butter pooled in the centre of each potato, seeping into the fluffy interior and releasing a heavenly, buttery fragrance.
Finally, the barmaid props down a wooden pitcher of ale, frothy and cold, with a rich amber hue. The most exciting addition to the meal. She hands out the sturdy mugs. The ale foams up to the brim, a few droplets spilling over the edges and onto the table.
“Thank you pretty lady.” Denki shoots a charming smile at the barmaid, earning a laugh from her. She waves him off before going back to tend the busy bar. Being impatient as ever, Bakugou, grabbed a turkey leg first, tearing into the tender meat with a satisfied grunt. Kirishima and Mina followed suit, each reaching for a leg of their own. In turn, Sero and Denki dove into the bread, slathering it with butter and passing around the baked potatoes.
They settle into the warmth of the inn, enjoying the hearty meal. Laughter filled the air as they recounted the day's journey, from the close calls during their journey to Denki’s less-than-graceful attempt at flirting with the local from earlier. Bakugou, as usual, mostly grunted in response, too focused on his food and drink to indulge in much conversation. As the night wore on, the group began to grow tired. They’ve satisfied their hunger and now it’s time to turn to other needs. Kirishima stretched and let out a loud yawn, his dragon scales glinting in the firelight. "Alright, I’m beat. Think I’ll hit the hay."
Mina nods, agreeing with Kirishima’s words. She pushes herself off the chair and straightens up, “Busy day tomorrow, we should all get some rest.” The other two members rise from their seats except for one. Bakugou stays in his seat, looking down at his ale. Admiring the deep amber colour. It looks rich and inviting under the flickering light of the hearth. A thick, frothy head crowned the top, with bubbles rising lazily to the surface, creating a satisfying hiss as they popped. The ale clung to the sides of the sturdy wooden mug as Bakugou tilted it slightly, leaving a thin, foamy residue in its wake.
“I’ll be here a while longer,” Bakugou doesn’t look up, “Don’t wait up for me.” He tosses the keys onto the table, keeping the spare for himself. Usually, he’d be the first to hit the sack. Always emphasising on the importance of sleep for the body. But his comrades already know the reason for the sudden change. He needs to be alone. Denki and Sero exchange a glance.
"Don’t stay up too late, Bakugou," Denki teased, slapping the barbarian on the back as he walked past. "We need you in top form tomorrow." As he skips over to Denki, Sero manages to ruffle Bakugou’s hair. Not that it changed much, it’s still a mess.
Bakugou rolled his eyes, taking another swig of ale. "Just.. get outta here." He doesn’t have the energy to be foul. The others laughed as they headed upstairs, leaving Bakugou alone at the table. He leans back in his chair, savouring the quiet and the last few bites of his meal. The inn had began to empty out, with only a few patrons lingering near the bar, their voices low as they finished their drinks.
He stays in his seat, lost in thought, with his pint of ale. Mindlessly watching people leave the tavern, lost in thought. Warmth spreads through Bakugou's chest as he takes a long sip. There was a subtle sweetness from the roasted barley, balanced by a hint of bitterness from the hops that lingered pleasantly on his tongue. The finish is smooth, with a slightly smoky aftertaste, leaving a satisfying sensation that made him reach for another sip almost immediately.
Just as Bakugou was about to take a sip, a figure approached his table. It’s a bard, a lithe man with a lute slung across his back and a curious glint in his eye. He wears a wide-brimmed hat adorned with a single feather, and his fingers were adorned with rings that glinted in the firelight. Bakugou has the intention to ignore the man, he isn’t in the mood for company. Especially from some halfwit in a dumb hat.
The bard gives Bakugou a respectful nod before speaking. “Mind if I join you for a moment, sir?”
Bakugou looks the bard up and down with an unreadable expression. “I do mind, now fuck off.” he gruffly replies as he takes a sip of his ale, “Go bother someone else.”
The bard’s smile remains steady, unruffled by Bakugou's gruff tone. "Forgive me for intruding," he speaks, his eyes twinkling with genuine curiosity. "I couldn’t help but notice you and your companions earlier. You strike me as a man with stories to tell, and I’m always on the lookout for inspiration for my songs. Care to share a tale or two?" His gaze is earnest, carefully assessing Bakugou’s mood, hoping to coax a story from the reluctant barbarian.
Bakugou leans back, grumbling as he takes another swig of ale. "I don’t tell stories. It’s not my thing."
The bard chuckles softly, sliding into a chair without waiting for an invitation. "Everyone has a story, even those who claim otherwise. Perhaps a tale of a great battle, or a quest that brought you to this town? A man like you must have seen his share of adventure."
Bakugou’s eyes narrow, studying the bard. His instinct is to brush off the intrusion, but something about the bard’s easy confidence and genuine curiosity makes him pause. Maybe it was the warmth of the ale or the unusual openness of the evening, but Bakugou found himself surprisingly open to the conversation. He did have a story— one that weighed heavily on him.
"Why do you care?" Bakugou asks, surprised by his own willingness to engage. On any other night, he’d have tossed the bard out or shouted him away.
The bard shrugs, resting his elbows on the table with an air of quiet conviction. "Stories are what keep us alive. They remind us of where we’ve been, what we’ve survived, and inspire others to forge their own paths. Besides," he adds with a grin, "I have a feeling your story is one worth hearing."
Bakugou is silent for a moment, his gaze drifting to the flickering flames in the hearth. He thinks back to all the battles he had fought, the friends he had made, the enemies he had faced. He isn’t one to dwell on the past, but he couldn’t deny that his life had been anything but ordinary. Especially with the most recent chapter of his story: you.
Finally, he sets his mug down with a decisive thud and meets the bard’s gaze. Perhaps the ale has made him loose-lipped. "Alright, I’ll tell you one story. But just one. Don’t expect me to get all sentimental or anything.”
“I met a woman, her name was …”
Your name was scribbled on the back of a map. That was Bakugou’s first introduction to you. He scowled down at what was supposed to be an intricately drawn parchment, then back up at the merchant. “You’re telling me this costs eighty gold and twenty silver?” His teeth clenched, barely containing his frustration at the absurd price. This flimsy, poorly drawn map isn’t worth half that. The barbarian’s patience was wearing thin— this was the twentieth merchant he’d approached in search of this damned map, and all he had to show for it was what looked like a cheap knock-off.
They were hunting for the map of Niniel’s Veil, an ancient, mysterious elven forest known for its dense, enchanted woods. Those who dared venture into it often wandered lost for years, if they ever returned at all. Information about the Veil was scarce, and what little existed was shrouded in myth and legend. All most people knew about was how difficult it was to go in and out of the forest alive. Bakugou was furious to find that after all this effort, all he was offered was this questionable scrap of parchment.
Niniel’s Veil was more than just a forest. It was a vast, sprawling labyrinth of nature. A forest shrouded in ancient magic and mystery, its reputation known far and wide as both a place of wonder and peril. The towering trees, with trunks as wide as castle towers, reached impossibly high, their dense canopies weaving together like an impenetrable tapestry of leaves and branches. The forest floor was an entanglement of twisted roots and thick underbrush, where sunlight barely penetrated, casting the entire woodland in perpetual twilight. Swallowing anyone who dared to enter. Every step inside the Veil felt like stepping into another world, where the air was thick with the scent of moss and the whisper of ancient secrets carried on the wind.
This forest had once been the sacred domain of elven ancestors, a place of refuge and mystery. It was said that within its depths lay countless treasures and artefacts, hidden away by those ancient elves who had stolen them in times of war and turmoil. The promise of these lost relics had lured many adventurers into the forest, but few had ever returned. Those who did spoke of twisted paths that led them in circles, illusions that played tricks on their minds, and creatures that seemed to be made of the very shadows that filled the Veil.
For Bakugou, entering Niniel’s Veil was not a choice but a necessity. He needed to find a lost piece of his draconic artefact, a relic of immense power that had been passed down through his family for generations. Without it, the artefact was incomplete. The artefact was not just a tool; it was a part of him, tied to his very identity and strength. The thought of it being lost forever gnawed at him, driving him to desperation. It’s been left missing for too long and he intended to do something about it.
He stared at the map in his hands, frustration and doubt warring within him. This map was his best chance of navigating the cursed forest, but its authenticity was questionable, and the price was absurd. Eighty gold and twenty silver for a flimsy piece of parchment that might not even be accurate? It felt like a cruel joke after all he had gone through.
But the alternative was wandering the Veil blind, with nothing but his instincts to guide him. The thought of spending years lost in the forest, of never finding the artefact, made his stomach twist. The merchant watched him carefully, sensing his hesitation, but Bakugou was too focused on his internal debate to notice. As he reached for his coin pouch, a pink hand halted him from doing so.
Mina crossed her arms, tapping her foot impatiently as she watched Bakugou wrestle with the decision. The merchant’s smug grin only made her more irritated. Eighty gold and twenty silver for a flimsy map? It was a rip-off, and she wasn’t about to let her friend get swindled.
“Bakugou, we’re not paying that,” she said firmly, stepping forward. She shot a glare at the merchant. Her voice cut through the tension like a blade, drawing the attention of the entire group. “This is daylight robbery, and you know it. We’re leaving.”
Bakugou’s eyes peeked to her before shoving her arm off him. The ever-present scowl on his face tightened. He was not in the mood. “Mina, we need this map. I don’t have time to play around.”
Mina grumbled under her breath, thinking of the possible choices they could make. That is until she takes another good look at the map. She squints at the name, puzzling over each letter. That name scribbled on the map. It's an obviously forged signature of the true creator of the map. But it seems so awfully familiar. The name. Where has she heard it before?
All of the sudden, it clicks in her head. “Thanks for your offer but we’ll have to say no!” Mina stepped in abruptly.
What was she thinking? They needed that map to better their chances of going through the damned forest. Bakugou was about to bark at her but she cut him off. Without waiting for further argument, she grabbed Bakugou’s arm and yanked him away from the counter. “Come on, guys. We’re out of here.”
“What the hell Mina? We needed that map!” Bakugou barked, fighting Mina as she dragged him out of the shop.
Sero was the first to react, a grin spreading across his face as he watched the scene unfold. “Guess that’s that, then,” he said with a shrug, casually following Mina’s lead. He was more amused than anything, enjoying the way Mina took charge. “Gotta admit, it was a pretty steep price for a piece of paper.”
Denki, on the other hand, looked a bit disappointed. “But what if that was the only map?” he protested, jogging to keep up as Mina pulled them out of the shop. “We might have just walked away from our best chance!”
“Or we just saved a ton of money,” Sero countered with a laugh, clapping Denki on the back. “Relax, Denks. We’ll find another way.”
Kirishima looked between Mina and Bakugou, his expression torn. “Mina’s right, Bakugou. That map didn’t even look legit. I know you’re desperate, but we’ve been through worse without needing to pay through the nose for something like that.”
Bakugou’s jaw tightened, but he didn’t resist as Mina practically dragged him out of the merchant’s shop. He hated to admit it, but Kirishima and Mina had a point. The map was overpriced, and there was no guarantee it was even real. Still, the thought of wasting more time searching for another lead made his blood boil. He needed these artefacrs and every delay felt like another step further from his goal.
Once they were outside, Mina finally let go of his arm and spun around to face the group. “Look, I have a better plan. I know how to get the actual map!” She seemed confident. It raised some eyebrows. What did Mina have up her sleeve to guarantee a rare map?
Bakugou glared at her, his frustration evident, but there was no real anger behind it. “You better be right about this, Mina,” he muttered.
As the group walked away from the merchant, Mina could feel the tension still radiating off Bakugou. She knew how important this quest was to him, but she also knew something that the others didn’t. With a sly smile, she stopped the group and turned to face them.
“I didn’t mention this before because I only just realised it, but I actually know the author behind that map.” Mina began, catching their attention. “I took a good look at that dumb, fake-ass map and recognised the name on the back.”
Bakugou’s eyes narrowed. “You what?”
A few months ago, the others had been busy with their own tasks— Bakugou training with Kirishima, Denki and Sero fooling around in the market— Mina had taken some time to explore the outskirts of a small town they’d passed through. She hadn’t meant to wander too far, but something had drawn her deeper into the woods until she stumbled upon a naturally formed dungeon hidden beneath a thick canopy of trees. The entrance had been nearly invisible, covered in moss and overgrown vines, but she’d caught sight of it and felt an irresistible urge to investigate.
Inside, the air had been cool and damp, the walls of the dungeon shimmering with faint traces of ancient magic. As she ventured further, she heard a weak voice calling for help. Instinctively, she followed the sound until she found a small chamber, where a person was slumped against the wall, barely conscious. Their mana and health were dangerously low, and it was clear they wouldn’t survive much longer without assistance.
Mina had acted quickly, using what little healing magic she knew and offering her own supplies to help the stranger recover. As she worked, she couldn’t help but feel a connection to this mysterious individual, and when they finally regained consciousness, she was shocked to learn their identity. The person she had saved was none other than one of the most renowned cartographers in the land, famous for their unparalleled skill in mapping even the most treacherous and unknown territories.
Grateful for her help, the cartographer had offered Mina a unique artefact as a token of thanks: a small, intricately carved crystal pendant. It glowed with a soft, blue light. The cartographer explained that it was enchanted to allow them to communicate with Mina at any time, no matter the distance. “You’ve shown kindness when you had no obligation to,” the cartographer had said, placing the pendant in her hand. “If ever you need guidance or help, you need only call, and I will answer.”
Sero whistled, clearly impressed. “You’ve been holding out on us, Mina. That’s one heck of a connection.”
Bakugou’s frustration began to ease as he listened, his interest piqued. “And you think this cartographer can get us a real map of Niniel’s Veil?”
Mina nodded confidently. “Absolutely. If anyone can, it’s her. And since I helped her out, she’ll probably do it for a fraction of what that greedy merchant was asking. Or maybe even for free.”
Bakugou finally let out a sigh, nodding in approval. “Fine. Contact her. But this better work.”
Without wasting any more time, Mina reached into her pouch and pulled out the crystal pendant. It was a small, clear gem that glowed faintly with a soft, bluish light. Holding it in her hand, she whispered a few words, and the crystal began to hum gently, a sign that the connection had been made. The blue light pulsed gently as the magic connected, and soon a voice came through, calm and familiar.
“Your name and what you need?” the voice asked, tinged with a hint of curiosity.
Mina smiled, her fingers tracing the edges of the pendant. “Hey, this is Mina from a few months ago.”
There was a brief pause, then a soft chuckle. “Ah, yes, I do remember you. Calling for a favour?”
Mina nodded, even though the cartographer couldn’t see her. “So, I need a map for Niniel’s Veil. Could you get me that?”
The line went silent, the only sound the faint crackling of magic in the air. Mina’s heart skipped a beat as she waited, anxiety creeping in as the seconds ticked by.
Finally, the voice spoke again, steady and thoughtful. “Where are you currently?”
Mina quickly glanced around at her friends, who were watching her intently. “Oh, um... we’re at the town of Leford.”
There was a pause, then the cartographer’s voice returned, sounding pleased. “How fortunate, I’m in Khela. I’ll go over to Leford tomorrow. Let’s meet, Mina.”
Mina’s face lit up with excitement. “Really? That’s great!” She could hardly believe her luck, and her grip on the pendant tightened in gratitude.
“Don’t mention it,” the cartographer replied, their tone warm and reassuring. “See you then, Mina.”
Mina exhaled, feeling a wave of relief wash over her as the connection faded and the pendant dimmed. She tucked it back under her shirt, looking up at her friends with a triumphant smile.
“Looks like we’re meeting her tomorrow,” she said, her voice brimming with confidence.
Bakugou gave a satisfied nod, and Kirishima patted her on the back, beaming with pride. “You really pulled through, Mina. Thanks.”
Sero grinned and Denki let out a whoop of excitement, the tension from earlier completely dissipated. They had a plan, and thanks to Mina, they were one step closer to finding the path through Niniel’s Veil.
You look down at the pendant in your hand, watching the soft blue glow fade away. The magic within it settles, leaving only the cool touch of the crystal against your skin. You turn back to the view of Khela, the prosperous town sprawling before you, its beauty tinged with the golden light of the setting sun. You had just finished your business here, so Mina's call was perfectly timed.
Niniel’s Veil. The name stirs something deep within you, a mixture of pride and apprehension. Your mind drifts back to that forest, the memories of navigating its treacherous paths still vivid. That place was hell to map— an ever-shifting labyrinth of ancient trees and hidden dangers. It had taken you and your father five long years to chart every inch of it, and even then, the forest had resisted your efforts, as if it had a will of its own.
Being a cartographer wasn’t just a profession for you; it was a legacy, woven into the very fabric of your being. From the moment you turned ten, your father had taken you under his wing, guiding you through countless expeditions, teaching you the secrets of the trade. Every line on a map, every curve and symbol, held a story— a story your father had passed down to you.
Your thoughts shift to Mina’s request. Niniel’s Veil. It’s not a place one simply wanders through with just a map in hand. You know this all too well. The forest was a living entity, a place where the unwary could lose themselves for years, or forever. Sending them in with nothing more than a piece of parchment would be a death sentence. And after what Mina did for you— saving your life when you were at your weakest— there’s no way you could let that happen. Besides that, you knew your principles wouldn’t allow you to abandon them like that.
Your conscience won’t allow it. You owe her more than just a map. You owe her your guidance, your expertise. She and her companions would need more than directions; they’d need someone who knew the forest’s secrets, who could navigate its shifting trails and hidden perils. With a resolute nod, you make up your mind. You’ll be their guide through Niniel’s Veil. But first, you’ll have to convince them to accept your help.
When you arrived at the inn in Leford, you found Mina and her companions huddled around a large wooden table, deep in conversation. Their chatter halted the moment you stepped closer, their eyes flicking to the pendant hanging around your neck— the very one Mina had described to them. You could feel their wariness, especially from the blond barbarian who fixed you with a hard, scrutinising stare, as if he were already imagining how he might take you down if needed.
“So, you must be the cartographer,” Kirishima said with a friendly grin, his dragon-like features softened by his genuine warmth.
Bakugou, however, was more reserved, his sharp eyes sizing you up. “You got the map?” he asked, cutting straight to the point.
You nodded, but before you could reach for your satchel, you raised a hand to pause them. “I do have the map, but… I’m not just here to hand it over.”
That got their attention. Bakugou’s eyes narrowed suspiciously, and Sero tilted his head curiously. “What do you mean?” Sero asked.
You gave them a small, knowing smile as you pulled up a chair, sitting down without waiting for an invitation. “Are you guys really planning to brave Niniel’s Veil with just a map?”
Bakugou crossed his arms over his chest, glaring at you. “What’s it to you?”
You chuckled, leaning back casually in your chair. “Everything. That forest is no joke. I know because I’m the one who mapped it. If you think you can just waltz in there with a piece of parchment and come out in one piece, you’re either fools or far too brave for your own good.”
Mina shot Bakugou a look, clearly trying to defuse the tension. “We appreciate the concern, really, but we’ve been through a lot together. We can handle it.”
“Oh, I don’t doubt your abilities,” you said, your tone still light but with an edge of seriousness. “But Niniel’s Veil isn’t like anything you’ve faced before. That forest has a mind of its own. It twists and changes to trap you, to keep you lost. I’ve seen seasoned adventurers disappear there, never to be seen again. And frankly, I’d rather not add your names to that list.”
Denki looked a little nervous at your words, glancing at his friends for reassurance. “So, what are you saying? That we’re doomed?”
“Not doomed,” you replied, waving off his concern with a smirk. “Just…in over your heads. Which is why I’m offering to be your guide.”
Kirishima leaned forward, his eyes narrowing with suspicion. “What’s the catch? People don’t just offer to lead groups into dangerous forests for fun.”
You shrugged, pretending to think it over. “Well, I could ask for some gold, but honestly, this is more of a personal matter. I don’t like seeing good people get themselves killed when it can be avoided. Plus, Mina here did save my life, so I figure I owe her one.”
Mina blushed slightly at the mention of her good deed, while Bakugou’s scowl deepened. “We don’t need charity,” he growled.
“Who said anything about charity?” you countered, meeting his glare with a challenging look. “This is about survival. You need someone who knows that forest inside and out. Someone who’s already spent years mapping its every inch. Like I said, you can try it on your own, but I wouldn’t recommend it.”
The group exchanged glances, each of them weighing your words. Finally, it was Bakugou who broke the silence, his voice gruff but grudgingly accepting. “Fine. But if you slow us down, you’re on your own.”
You chuckled again, nodding. “Fair enough. Just try to keep up, and we’ll get along just fine.” You could tell your words struck a nerve with Bakugou— no one tells him to keep up. With a smirk, you tossed the rolled-up map across the table to him, watching as he caught it and unrolled the parchment. The group crowded around the map, eager to take a look.
The moment Bakugou spread out the map, the difference was clear. The shoddy, overpriced map the merchant had tried to sell them was nothing compared to this. Your work was meticulous and precise, every detail painstakingly drawn. The map was likely the best they had ever seen, a masterpiece of cartography. Bakugou’s scowl softened as he took in the craftsmanship, a flicker of something like respect in his eyes. He was relieved they hadn’t wasted their gold on that flimsy knock-off.
“Looks like you really know your stuff,” Kirishima commented, impressed, to which you slightly nodded.
Bakugou said nothing, but his silence was telling. His crimson eyes lingered on you for a moment longer than usual, scrutinising every inch of your expression as if trying to find a crack in your resolve. But the map in his hands, its detailed lines and intricate markings, spoke louder than any words could. He might not admit it, but the quality of your work had earned his grudging respect. For someone like him, that was saying something.
With a huff, he rolled the map up and rose from his seat, the chair scraping loudly against the wooden floor. “We’re leaving at first light. Don’t be late,” he grumbled, his tone more of an order than a suggestion. Without another word, he turned on his heel and strode toward the stairs leading up to the rooms, his heavy boots thudding with each step.
As Bakugou disappeared from view, the atmosphere around the table shifted. The rest of the group visibly relaxed, the tension that Bakugou’s presence often brought fading away. Kirishima chuckled, shaking his head. “Don’t mind him. That’s just how he is. He’s actually a good guy. Just takes a while to warm up.”
Sero leaned back in his chair, a lazy grin spreading across his face. “Yeah, once you get past the scowl and the growling, he’s practically a teddy bear. A really, really angry teddy bear.”
Denki snickered, nodding in agreement. “Just don’t tell him we said that. I like my head attached to my shoulders.”
Mina smiled warmly at you. Her demeanour welcoming and bright, it brought you closer to her. She seemed to be the friendliest out of everyone. “He’s right to be cautious, though. We’ve been through a lot together, and he’s just looking out for us. But I’m glad you’re here. I think we’re going to need all the help we can get in Niniel’s Veil.”
You couldn’t help but appreciate their companionship. The inside jokes and the trust that bound them together told you that this was a group with a long history. It was clear that they had faced their fair share of challenges together, and the way they talked about Bakugou revealed they truly known and have gotten used to him. With all his sharp edges and brutish tongue.
As the conversation flowed, they began sharing stories of their past adventures, tales of battles fought and enemies vanquished, of close calls and hard-won victories. Each story painted a picture of a group that had seen the worst the world had to offer and come out stronger for it. You listened intently, absorbing their words, getting a feel for the dynamics at play.
But amidst the laughter and reminiscing, there was also a word of caution. Kirishima, his expression serious for once, leaned in and said, “Just one thing: Bakugou’s on a mission. It’s personal for him. He won’t tolerate anything or anyone that gets in his way. So just… be aware of that.”
You nodded, understanding the weight of what he was saying. They had told you briefly about their journey to Niniel’s Veil. The draconic artefact, the quest they were on— it wasn’t just about survival or adventure for Bakugou. It was about something deeper, something that drove him relentlessly. They didn’t really tell you details. You respected it quietly, not wanting to pry over something private.
Despite the thrill that tingled at the edge of your senses, there was a weight in your chest as you thought about Niniel’s Veil. The forest was no ordinary place. Its dangers were real, its curse tangible. Returning there as a guide was a challenge that stirred something deep within you, but it was tempered by the sobering knowledge of what awaited. You knew the risks, the treacherous paths, the way the forest itself seemed to conspire against those who dared enter.
This wasn’t just another expedition. It was a test of survival, a journey where one wrong step could mean the difference between life and death. And yet, you had accepted the responsibility to lead them through it, to navigate the shifting shadows and ancient traps that had claimed countless lives before.
Tomorrow, at first light, the real journey would begin. You steeled yourself for the challenges ahead, knowing full well that what lay beyond the veil was as deadly as it was unknown. But this was your path now, and there was no turning back.
You had long grown accustomed to the early mornings, a discipline hammered into you by your father from a young age. He believed that a cartographer had to rise with the sun, to seize every bit of daylight for the work ahead. Expeditions didn’t wait for anyone, and neither did the maps that needed to be drawn. Over the years, waking before dawn became second nature, ingrained into your very being. So there you were, seated alone at a worn wooden table in the inn’s common room, the first rays of morning light filtering through the dusty windows.
You tore off a piece of buttered bread, savoring the simplicity of the meal as you waited. The inn was quiet, save for the occasional creak of old floorboards or the distant sounds of a town beginning to stir. It was a moment of solitude you had come to appreciate. The calm before the storm that was sure to follow once the others arrived.
Bakugou was the first to appear, his heavy boots thudding down the stairs. You glanced up from your breakfast as he entered the room, surprised to see him pause when he spotted you already seated. It was clear from the flicker in his eyes that he hadn’t expected you to be awake, let alone waiting. There was a brief moment of mutual acknowledgment. Him noting your early rise, you noting his surprise.
“Hmph,” he grunted, more to himself than to you as he strode over to the table. “Didn’t think you’d be up before the sun.”
You shrugged, popping a bit of bread into your mouth. “Old habits die hard. Besides, I figured I’d give you lot some extra time to get your beauty sleep.”
Bakugou snorted, dropping into the chair across from you with a scowl. “We’re not here for pleasantries, so don’t think I’ll be impressed by your early wake-up calls.”
“Good,” you replied, leaning back in your chair with a smirk. “Wouldn’t want to set any unrealistic expectations. But I’ll warn you, Niniel’s Veil won’t wait for anyone, not even you. Early starts might just save your hide.”
He narrowed his eyes as if he was weighing your words. “Just make sure you don’t slow us down. I’m not in the mood to babysit anyone.”
“Babysit?” you echoed with a laugh. “You’ve got it backward, Bakugou. I’m the one making sure you don’t wander off and get yourselves killed. That forest isn’t going to play nice just because you’re loud and stubborn.”
“I get results,” he snapped, but there was an edge of amusement in his tone. “But we’ll see if you’re as good as you say you are.”
You locked eyes with him, the challenge hanging in the air between you. “Oh, I’m good, alright. Just try to keep up.”
For a moment, neither of you spoke, the tension taut but strangely invigorating. Then Bakugou huffed, breaking the silence. “Don’t get cocky. We’ll see if you’re still talking like that when we’re deep in that cursed forest.”
You chuckled, the sound low and knowing. “I’ll be fine. Just worry about yourself, barbarian.”
Bakugou leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms with a grunt. Eyes glaring at you with a shadow of annoyance. “Tch. We’ll see. Sthyarli.”
The word rolled off his tongue with a sharp edge, his tone laced with disdain. It was clear he didn’t expect you to understand it, let alone respond. But you had spent years travelling the continent, picking up languages like a second skin. Draconic, while not your strongest, was one you had made sure to grasp. It was a necessity when mapping regions native to dragonborn. What began as a practical skill soon became a weapon in your arsenal. One you were now thankful for, if only to wipe that smug look off his face.
You scoffed, unimpressed by his attempt to catch you off guard. “Really? That’s the best you’ve got?”
The surprise in his eyes was brief but unmistakable as your retort slipped out in his own tongue. “Tiamash.”
Bakugou’s eyes narrowed, his expression darkening for a moment as the insult sank in. He hadn’t seen that coming, and for a split second, you caught the barest hint of respect mingled with the irritation in his gaze.
“Hmph,” he grunted, his voice low and dangerous. “Careful. You might just bite off more than you can chew.”
You grinned, unfazed. “Guess we’ll find out, won’t we?”
Bakugou’s lips twitched as if he was fighting back a retort, but instead, he just shook his head, rising from his seat with a dismissive wave of his hand. “Keep running that mouth. Just don’t slow us down.”
As he turned away, you couldn’t help but feel a small sense of satisfaction. Matching wits with Bakugou might have been risky, but it was also undeniably rewarding. The tension lingered in the air as he stalked off, but it was clear that you had earned a small measure of his respect. There was a sense of mutual understanding between the two of you now. A recognition that while you might not be friends, there was respect born from the knowledge that the road ahead wouldn’t be easy for any of you. And as you sat there, finishing the last of your bread, you couldn’t help but think that perhaps this journey, dangerous as it was, might just be worth it.
next chapter
a/n: thats the first chapter, the next one will come next tuesday !! be ready for the next one @chocogoldie
pairing: barbarian! katsuki bakugou x reader (female)
summary: a bard approaches a lone barbarian in search for a story to tell. Who could have known that the barbarian end up being such a romantic tale.
notes: fantasy au, fluff, strangers to lovers, slow burn, bakusquad, barbarian bakugou
word count: 8.2k
part list
part two: chapter list
a/n: happy new year all! i apologise for being so spotty with my writing and I'll do my best for my few lovelie readers <3
You’d think that after navigating the team safely through Niniel’s Veil, Bakugou would start trusting you more to lead. The barking directed at you made you wonder why you held such an expectation. Of course, Bakugou would be challenging you again. It wasn’t that he didn’t trust you, he does (he will never admit it outloud). But his need to take charge always got the better of him. It’s another day and it starts with the two of you bickering over which route to take on the way to Edresa, each stubbornly defending your own path. Bakugou being a hardass didn’t really surprise you but could anyone blame you for having hope for a peaceful day?
As soon as you realised Edresa was your next stop, you reached out to an old friend, a fellow cartographer who you met in a temple. He prayed next to you and before you knew it, a conversation started. The both of you worked together on a few projects, travelling and mapping out locations until he left for Edresa. Last you heard from him, he had risked mapping out the catacombs himself and actually done it. You never doubted him, you simply were aware of how dangerous those catacombs were. Hence why you contacted him last night. He was one of the few with firsthand knowledge of the place, and his insights could prove invaluable. But that was a problem for later. Right now, the immediate challenge was arguing with this thick-skulled, contentious dragonborn at your side.
Once again, Bakugou was arguing about the best route to take. You swear, each time he sees a shortcut, he’s adamant on taking it no matter the danger. His words irritated the skin of your ears, it were as if he was more relentless, more annoying if he was up against you.
“Do you really want to go through there? It’s laced with traps,” you said, exasperation lacing your voice as you pointed to the narrow and dark trail Bakugou insisted on taking. A map didn’t have to tell you not to venture through there. Simply based on the fact this trial went through a thicket of woods as well as it wasn’t lit, there wasn’t a good reason to go through it. But sure— it ‘cuts 30 minutes out’ of the journey.
In response to your exasperation, a defiant glare stares into you, unbothered by your concerns. “It’ll be faster than taking the long way around,” he countered, his tongue clicked sharply. With a stubbornly confident expression on his face that you’ve grown tired of.
Trying to keep your frustration in check, you rubbed your temples. Your fingers attempted to massage the forming headache away, though it would prove it be useless. “Yeah, faster right up until we end up stuck in some pit or fighting off whatever’s guarding that shortcut. You can’t just rush through every obstacle, Bakugou.” You must have said this to him a thousand times at this point. How did you both always argue like this?
He huffed, crossing his arms as he continued to scan the path ahead. “We don’t have time to waste tiptoeing around every little problem. We ain’t got time to lose, and I’m not about to let some overgrown trail slow us down.”
And so the cartographer and barbarian continued to squabble, neither willing to give an inch. Their argument crackled in the air as the rest of the group hung back, watching the exchange like a familiar, albeit slightly ridiculous, routine. They could only shake their head in amusement, probably betting on who would win again. Despite your differences, Niniel’s Viel had built trust between you. Even in moments like these where you both disagreed on the right path forward, that trust was buried underneath it all. A part of you always knew that the real challenge wasn’t just getting to Edresa; it was navigating each other’s stubbornness along the way.
It was a familiar push-and-pull, the kind that had defined your partnership from the beginning. Bakugou’s impatience was as fierce as ever, only matched by your persistence to avoid unnecessary risks. But both knew that getting stuck in a shouting match wasn’t helping anyone.
You took a deep breath, forcing yourself to rein in the irritation simmering beneath the surface. A deep breath that grounded you from throwing a punch. “Look, Bakugou,” you began, trying to inject some calm into your tone. “I get that you want to get there fast, I do too. But if we rush through every shortcut that looks promising, we’re going to end up making more trouble for ourselves. We need to be smart about this.”
Bakugou’s eyes narrowed, but the fire in his gaze dimmed slightly as he weighed your words. He ran a hand through his hair, trying to come to a decision or at least come to some middle ground. “Fine,” he muttered, though it was clear it took effort to say. “We’ll check out your route first. But if it looks like a dead end or a waste of time, we take mine. No dragging it out, no arguing. Just a final decision.”
You hesitated, surprised by the compromise but not willing to let the opportunity slip. Was he in a good mood of some sorts? “Alright,” you agreed, nodding. “We’ll do a quick scout of my route. If it’s clear and manageable, we go that way. If not, we double back and take your shortcut. But if we hit any traps on your path, you’re buying the first round when we get to Edresa.”
Bakugou snorted at your words. He’s buying the first round if there’s traps? As long as they got to Edresa quicker, he didn’t care. A smirk broke through his frustration, amused by your little proposal. “Deal. And when my way turns out to be faster, I’m holding you to that. No whining when I’m right.” His arms crossed over his chest, that smirk still present on his lips, “Oh, and if we don’t run into any traps, you’re paying.”
You rolled your eyes at his words. That trail would be littered with traps, the question really was if they could avoid it all. Still you couldn’t help but grin at his added condition. “Sure, tough guy. We’ll see who’s buying who drinks.”
With the compromise set, the group moved forward to check out both routes. The tension settled into something lighter— it wasn’t perfect, but you both knew there’d be more arguments ahead. A reality where you both don’t argue does not exist. Though even if your styles clashed, you could find a way to work together. In the end, the group took the shortcut, but that didn’t necessarily mean Bakugou had won. Sure, the route was faster, but speed came with its own risks. Risks that quickly became all too real when the group stumbled into an unexpected trap. Truth be told, it wasn't everyone who got caught up in the mess.
It was just you, out of all people. You.
Shocking really when you are the most cautious one in the group. The one who preached for the longer but safer route. And yet it was you who fell into the trap. You blamed it entirely on Bakugou being his usual, loud-mouthed self. You were focused on trekking carefully through this unknown path, carefully scanning the uneven ground. Trying to avoid suspicious bumps that could potentially be traps.
However, it’s not easy for you to concentrate when Bakugou’s voice boomed with some smart-ass remark. You couldn’t even remember what he was saying. Whatever stupid comment he made, it broke your concentration and you took a seemingly harmless step forward. The ground gave way, and a rope trap snapped around your legs, yanking you up into the air. A loud yelp tore through your throat as it zipped you up. Now there you were, dangling upside down from a tree, your legs bound by a rope, arms crossed tightly over your chest and an unmistakably pissed-off look on your face.
Meanwhile, Bakugou was having the time of his life. He doubled over, his laughter echoing through the forest. His rambunctious laughter threatened to alert whoever set the traps up. Not like he cared. What he cared about was this priceless sight of you sprung up by your legs. “No fucking way,” he guffawed, clutching his sides. “Look who got caught in the damn trap! I thought you were the one meant to help me out of traps.”
You shot him a withering glare, eyes twitching in frustration and embarrassment. Your cheeks burned as your patience thinned out with each laugh. Just your luck. “Yeah, keep laughing, loudmouth,” you snapped, the words had a bite to them. Clearly annoyed but you were stuck. And the person who’s meant to be helping was bursting with laughter like this was the funniest thing he’d ever seen. “This wouldn’t have happened if you weren’t yelling your head off about god-knows-what. You’re louder than a damn war horn.”
Bakugou wiped a tear from his eye, still grinning as he approached. Even his strut was irritatingly cocky. “Oh, so now it’s my fault you can’t watch your step? Face it, you just got sloppy. Happens to the best of us.” He leaned in, mockingly inspecting the ropes. His fiery eyes twinkled with amusement as he met your glare. “Or maybe you just wanted me to save you. Didn’t know you were so eager.”
“Fuck you.” You spat out, refusing to give him any sort of satisfaction. You began to struggle in your confinements, wondering if you could slip out. But each wiggle only came with disappointment. It really was up to the bonehead to get you down. “Just get me down, Bakugou, before I decide hanging upside down is better than listening to you gloat.”
He smirked, taking his time as he inspected the mechanism holding the trap. “Nah, I think I’ll take my time. Good view from down here. Besides, maybe you’ll learn to appreciate my directions more when you’re not too busy tripping over your own feet.”
You huffed, swinging slightly as you tried to maintain what little dignity you had left. “Oh, I’m appreciating something, alright. Mainly that you’re still as insufferable as ever.”
Bakugou finally cut the rope (without warning, of course) and you dropped to the ground in an ungraceful heap. You let out a low groan from the harsh fall. To ease the ache you felt on your head, your hand rose to rub the back of your skull. Was it really too much to give a warning next time? In turn, he extended a hand, still wearing that smug smirk that you wanted to punch off. “Next time, maybe you’ll actually listen.” his voice rumbled with amusement.
You grabbed his hand, pulling yourself up with a huff. Great, now he was going to be insufferable about this. Was this going to last for the whole day? A week? You barely spare him a glance as you straighten up, muttering bitterly in response. “Or maybe I’ll just find a better way to tune you out.”
As you dusted yourself off and shot Bakugou one last glare, the rest of the group finally caught up, having heard the commotion. Mina was the first to arrive, her legs skipping over to catch a glimpse of what was going on. She took one look at the scene: the remnants of the trap, your dishevelled appearance, and Bakugou’s still-present smirk. Mina immediately burst into laughter. At this point, you’ve accepted that this wouldn’t be let down for a while.
“Oh my god, no way!” Mina exclaimed as she tried to catch her breath. She honestly couldn’t believe she missed this. If only she walked quicker, perhaps then she could gotten a glimpse. “You? Caught in a trap?! I wish I’d seen it from the start!”
Kirishima stepped by Mina, hand going through his red locks. He couldn’t hide the wide grin already forming on his face. “You two are always at it, huh?” he said, shaking his head as he glanced between you and Bakugou. “But seriously, are you okay?” His concern was genuine, but with the way his lips twitched, it was clear that he was holding back a laugh.
“Yeah, yeah, I’m fine,” you grumbled, brushing off the last bits of dirt. “Just a little caught off guard, that’s all.” You shot a look at Bakugou, who was still grinning like he’d won some kind of prize. You were just waiting for everyone’s reactions so everyone could move on and continue with the journey.
Sero and Denki came running up just in time to hear the tail end of your conversation. Sero raised an eyebrow, taking in the scene with a wry smile. His hands found his hips as he studied the scene. “Let me guess, Bakugou’s shortcut, right?” he asked, smirking at the confirmation in your eyes. It was spelled out just by the expression on your face.
Denki began to guffaw at the realisation. In between his laughs, he pointed between the two of you. “You guys are always bickering and getting each other into trouble.” He said, another grin joining the group.
“For the record, it wasn’t my fault.” you shot back, attempting to defend yourself. Though you couldn’t help but smile a little at their reactions. Seeing everyone laugh and lighten up did make you feel warm. Even if you were the butt of the joke.
Bakugou rolled his eyes at your flimsy defence, still replaying the memory of you falling for the trap. Still riding the wave of watching you hung upside down, needing his help. “Keep telling yourself that,” he scoffed, snickering at the glare you shot him.
Kirishima clapped a hand on Bakugou’s shoulder, still grinning. “You really shouldn’t tease her so much, man. But I guess that’s just how you two work, huh?”
“But hey, if this is how you guys get along, I’m all for it. Makes the journey a lot more entertaining.” Denki joined in once he finally stopped laughing.
Sero leaned against a tree. After learning that you fell into a trap, he checked the tree for any traps so he wouldn’t be next. “Let’s just try to make it to Edresa without getting tied up again, alright? We’ve got enough to worry about without you two at each other's necks.” he commented, still grinning.
You couldn’t help but roll your eyes, easing up as the group joked around. As the laughter faded, the group prepared to continue on. Despite how unpleasant it was to fall into a trap, it meant Bakugou owed the group a round of drinks. But you also couldn’t complain too much about his methods. Taking the shortcut had saved precious time, and now the group was only two more hours from the city of Edresa. The mood had lightened considerably, with everyone already talking about settling into a cosy inn and indulging in some hot, freshly cooked meals after days of surviving on dry rations.
As the party trudged along the final stretch of their journey to Edresa, the conversation inevitably turned to the catacombs and the mysterious informant you had contacted for guidance. Curiosity rippled through the group, and one by one, they began asking about your mysterious friend. The one with the knowledge of the labyrinthine tunnels hidden beneath Edresa. It wasn’t lost on anyone that navigating such a place would require more than just maps and instinct.
“So, who’s this contact of yours?” Sero asked, adjusting his pack as he shot you a curious glance. “Anyone we need to worry about?”
You shook your head, a small smile playing at the corners of your lips. “No, nothing like that. He’s a friend though he is rather reserved. Not the talkative type, but he knows the catacombs better than anyone. His name is Tokoyami, an Aarakocra I’ve worked with before. If there’s anyone who can give us the layout of those tunnels, it’s him.”
Mina tilted her head as she listened to your words. Another question flew your way, “Tokoyami? What’s he like? Is he going to guide us through the catacombs?”
You hesitated, considering your response thoughtfully. How does one describe him? “He’s… noble and also very focused. He doesn’t do small talk. He’s not likely to guide us himself, though. He’s got his own code, and he doesn’t stray far from it. But his maps and insights are solid, and he’ll share what he knows as long as we don’t waste his time.”
Bakugou’s brow arched at your words, trying to form some sort of image of this mysterious friend of yours. “He better not just be another pain in the ass.” He grumbled, adjusting the equipment on his back as he trudged on.
“You’re the pain in the ass Bakugou.” You swiftly jabbed back, shaking your head as you continued to describe the Aarakocra. “Tokoyami’s the type who thinks deeply before he decides on anything. If he’s helping, it’s because he believes there’s a reason to. He doesn’t take to guiding parties, though. Doesn’t see it as his responsibility. He’s more likely to hand over his notes and expect us to figure it out ourselves.”
“Hey, as long as he’s giving us something useful, that’s good enough for me. We just need a solid map and a little direction. We can handle ourselves, especially if you’re here as our guide.” Kirishima commented with a shrug, confident in your skills and not too worried about the next adventure.
“So, no stories, no friendly advice? Just business?” Denki asked once more, seeming slightly deflated at the idea of Tokoyami’s reserved nature.
You smiled, knowing exactly what Denki meant. “Just business. But trust me, the information he has is worth more than any conversation. The catacombs are no joke. If there’s anything lurking down there, Tokoyami’s maps will keep us one step ahead.”
The conversation revolving around Tokoyami died down and the group moved on to other topics to fill the journey. As the group continued toward Edresa, each were curious to what this segment would hold for them. The prospect of exploring the catacombs was daunting, but knowing that they weren’t going in blind offered some comfort. They had you and Tokoyami’s expertise as support. You could manage the catacombs so long as you had one of the Aarakocra’s maps. Even so, you knew he would be watching from the shadows in case anything happened.
Two hours flew by and the group finally reached Edresa. Its grand city unfolding before them as they passed through its towering gates. The mere moment you stepped foot on Edresa’s grounds, the rejuvenating energy of the city lifted your spirits. It didn’t take a glance to see the stark contrast between the bustling city and the dangerous paths they had travelled to get here. The streets were alive with movement, filled with a flurry of colours and sounds that struck you the moment you crossed into the city.
Merchants hawked their wares from vibrant stalls, their voices mingling with the clatter of wheels on cobblestone and the rhythmic beat of distant music. Children darted between market stands, laughing and chasing one another in games. Street performers entertained passersby with feats of magic, acrobatics, and music, their displays drawing crowds of curious onlookers. The air was rich with the scent of spices and muddled compilation of aromas. This was Edresa.
You took it all in, scanning the busy streets with the trained eye of a cartographer accustomed to navigating unfamiliar terrain. Edresa’s charm was undeniable, with its winding alleys, towering spires, and the constant hum of activity that made the city feel like it had a pulse of its own. It wasn’t your first time here but the city had such life that was impossible to ignore. But the allure of the city’s surface was only a distraction from the ancient, hidden world that lay beneath its foundations.
“We’ll find a place to rest first,” you called over your shoulder, motioning for the others to follow as you threaded your way through the busy crowd. “A good inn where we can get some proper food and a decent night’s sleep. We’ll need to be sharp when we head into the catacombs.”
Bakugou grunted in agreement, his eyes scanning the surroundings with a mix of scrutiny and mild irritation at the crowded chaos. His broad shoulders pushed past people as he tried to keep up with you. “Can’t argue with that. We’ve been roughing it too long. Need to get everyone back on their feet.”
Mina was already admiring the vibrant shops and colourful fabrics displayed in windows. She had already decided that she needed to shop. “I love it here!” she exclaimed, spinning around to take in the city’s sights. “First stop: a hot bath. Second stop: shopping!” She caught your eye, and you nodded with a smile, knowing she’d been craving a break from the endless wilderness. You too shared the same sentiment and couldn’t wait to take a moment to live in civilization. Even if it were for just a bit.
Sero and Denki were equally taken by the city’s lively atmosphere, pointing out different food stalls and eyeing the local street food with keen interest. “Think they have any of those skewers you talked about?” Denki asked as he licked his lips, taking a sniff at the wafting aroma.
“Only one way to find out,” Sero replied with an eager grin, already planning to hit up one of the stalls.
Kirishima stuck close by, keeping an eye on the group’s supplies and making sure nothing got left behind in the bustle. Making sure no pesky pickpockets came by and swiped them. “Let’s get settled first,” he said, glancing between you and Bakugou. “We’ll be ready for anything once we’ve got our bearings.”
You led them through the winding streets, navigating the crowds with ease as you spotted the familiar sign of an inn. A sturdy, welcoming building with a swinging metal sign that read “The Silver Lantern.” It was a place you’d stayed at before: clean, comfortable, and just busy enough that no one would pay too much attention to a group like yours.
Pushing open the heavy wooden door, you were greeted by the warm glow of lanterns and the murmur of voices inside. The inn smelled of roasted meat, fresh bread, and the faint, comforting scent of old wood. It was exactly the kind of respite you all needed. Comfortable beds, actual baths and real food. You turned to the group, smiling at the sense of relief on their faces. “Welcome to civilization, everyone. Let’s get some rooms, some food, and finally, a decent night’s rest. Tomorrow, we figure out how to tackle those catacombs.”
With that, the group settled into the inn, the promise of a warm meal and a soft bed lifting everyone’s spirits. But even as the city’s comforts wrapped around you, just underneath you were the catacombs you all would have to venture through soon. For now, though, you let yourself savour the simple pleasure of being somewhere safe and warm. Soon enough, you all would be risking your lives once more for the next artefact.
Even after the full day of odd jobs, the group were mindful of their dwindling coin purses. You guys still had to go shopping. Rations, health pots, equipment– all sorts that hadn’t been purchased just yet. So the group opted for two rooms for the night, a decision that was equal parts practical and amusing. Stingy or not, it was enough for a comfortable stay. You and Mina lucked out, sharing a cozy, neatly furnished room with two soft beds and a small window overlooking the bustling streets below. Meanwhile, the four men… Bakugou, Kirishima, Sero, and Denki were crammed into the adjoining room, a sight that had you both chuckling when you saw the broad-shouldered warriors squabbling over bed space.
As you and Mina unpacked, you could hear faint bickering through the thin walls, Bakugou’s frustrated grumble unmistakable as he argued with Denki about who was hogging the covers. Mina flopped onto her bed with a contented sigh, stretching out her limbs and kicking off her boots with a flourish. Thank god it was just the two of you. You didn’t dare think of sharing a room with those guys. The muffled sounds of bickering drifted through the thin walls separating your room from the boys’. You exchanged an amused glance, pausing to listen as the distinct voices of your companions filtered through, each one layered with its own brand of annoyance and humour.
“Oi, Kirishima, you’ve got to move! You’re hogging all the space,” Denki’s voice rang out, already whining and complaining. It hadn’t been that long since everyone’s settled in the room.
“Man, I’m not that big!” Kirishima defended, but the creak of the bed suggested otherwise. He sat up, glaring at the messy pile of gear that Denki haphazardly threw on the bed.“You’re the one taking up half the bed with all your gear.”
Sero’s laughter followed, scanning the situation. Obviously there was only one solution. “Guys, seriously? It’s just like babysitting kids. Just throw Denki on the floor if he’s that much of a problem.”
“Wait—! Don’t actually– Kirishima–!” A hard thump followed through.
Mina barely stifled her giggles as she pulled her hair back, tying it up as she listened along. “Sounds like a mess already. Can you believe they’re fighting over bed space? It’s like they’ve never shared a room before.”
Bakugou’s yelling cut through the rest, commanding some semblance of peace and quiet. “Will you all shut up? If anyone’s getting the floor, it’s Sparky. I’m not dealing with him tossing and turning all night.”
Denki’s indignant voice piped up again as he started to rise from being thrown onto the floor. “Hey! Why do I have to be on the floor? Kirishima’s the one taking up half the room with his fat ass, and Bakugou’s the one who snores!”
“When have I ever snored?!”
Mina snorted, covering her mouth to suppress her laughter. The both of you didn’t think free entertainment came with the room. “Honestly, can you imagine having to deal with that all night? We got so lucky.”
You nodded, trying not to laugh as Bakugou’s threats and Denki’s whining blended into a chaotic, comical symphony. “Yeah, no thanks. I’d rather have a little peace and quiet. Plus, I don’t think I could handle Bakugou snoring in my ear all night.”
A crash could be heard in the middle of your conversation, earning a laugh from the both of you. Mina leaned back against her pillow as she rummaged through her bag. Her fingers swiping through her pack as she spoke once more. “Or Denki whining about every little thing. I’d be tempted to smother him with a pillow. This” She lifted her head up and gestured around the quaint room, “is perfect. It’s like a little slice of heaven after everything we’ve been through.”
You couldn’t agree more. The fluffy bed and Mina's comforting company was truly all you needed right about now. You leaned against the wall as you unpacked a few of your belongings. “It really is. We deserve this, you know? Just some time to unwind without worrying about traps or getting lost.”
Pulling out a fresh set of clothes, Mina picked out something light and comfortable for the hot springs. The sight of it also had you pulling out a simple garment for the baths. “Speaking of unwinding, I am so ready to hit those hot baths. My muscles are screaming after all that walking.”
She didn’t have to convince you. For you had been anticipating the soothing waters since you got here. From prior stays here, the one thing you looked forward to was this bathhouse. “Yeah, let’s go before the guys beat us to it. I’ve been dreaming of a proper soak since we got out of Niniel’s Veil.” you hummed as you tilted your head towards the door.
With a shared grin and the sounds of the boys’ bickering still echoing faintly behind you, the two of you quickly changed and made your way down to the inn’s hot baths. The path led you through a narrow hallway, lit by warm lanterns and lined with rows of shelves stocked with towels. The bathhouses were tucked away behind the main building, surrounded by a low wooden fence that offered privacy to their guests. A fellow attendant offered towels and led you both to the arranged baths.
Humidity hit you as soon as you stepped through the wooden gate. Inside were two large wooden baths: one filled with hot water that would ease your tender muscles and another filled with cool water to freshen yourself up. Wisps of steam rose from the surface, curling up into the air like ghostly tendrils, illuminated by the soft, flickering glow of lanterns hung around the perimeter. The lanterns bathed the area in a warm, golden light, casting playful shadows on the walls and making the entire space feel like a warm safe haven.
Mina dipped a toe into the water, shivering in delight as the warmth seeped through her skin. “Oh, this is perfect,” she sighed, sinking slowly into the hot, steaming pool. She let out a contented groan, her head tipping back as she submerged up to her shoulders. “I needed this so badly. It’s like all the stress is just melting away.”
You followed her in, the water embracing you with a soothing heat that eased the tension in your muscles. The heat instantly welcomed your body, the warmth seeping into your skin. “Yeah, I didn’t realise how sore I was until now,” you admitted, closing your eyes as you leaned back against the smooth stones. “Feels like the first real break we’ve had in ages.”
Heat massaged the tired muscles and eased your usually alert senses. Neither fought the relaxing atmosphere and simply melted into it. You shut your eyes as you leaned back, resting your head on the edge of the bath. For a bit, there was a shared silence between the two of you. Slowly emerging from her daze, Mina glanced at you with a softening smile as the steam curled around you both. “I’m really glad you decided to stick with us,” she whispered quietly, letting her voice break the quiet. “Niniel’s Veil was no joke, and I know it wasn’t easy… but having you there made a huge difference.”
You opened your eyes, meeting her gaze through the rising steam. Hearing the sincerity in her voice. Coming on this journey was just by chance, but… “Honestly? I’m glad I stuck around too. I’ve been on my own so much that I forgot what it’s like to actually have people you can count on.” you admitted in a careful voice, as if the admission were fragile.
At your words, Mina couldn’t help but smile. A part of her had wondered if you stayed on out of polite obligation. But it was clear that you were part of their family. Her eyes glimmered brightly even in the dim lantern light. “I get that. And you did more than just stick around, you’ve been leading us through this crazy mess, keeping us on track. I know we all joke around, but we’d be lost without you.”
You laughed softly at her comment, shaking your head. “Trust me, it’s been a learning curve. But… I wouldn’t have it any other way. You guys are fun and we all work well together. Even with Bakugou.”
Mina managed a short laugh at your closing statement, rolling her eyes playfully. “Yeah, well, Bakugou’s Bakugou. But I think even he’s glad you’re with us, even if he’d rather die than say it.”
A comfortable silence blanketed the both of you, the gentle bubbling of the springs and the occasional distant chirp of critters from the outside filled the space. You closed your eyes once more and let the weight of the journey finally lift from your shoulders. All the worries and stresses falling off your skin and into the heated waters. Niniel’s Veil had given you a headache throughout the journey, and now with Edresa, there were new things to worry about. Yet you held no regrets being here.
“I think… I needed this,” after a while you spoke up, keeping your voice low as you arranged your thoughts. “Not just this bath, but everything. The challenge, the team… It's been a long time since I felt like I was part of something bigger.”
Your companion listened with a serene smile. Her lips part as she formulated a response. “...Yeah?” A hum left her mouth as she recalled the past journey through the twisting thicket, “Well… Niniel’s Veil was just the beginning. There’s so much more ahead, but we can handle it all so long as we’re together. Hopefully, you’ll stick around for that long.”
Her words quelled a certain longing in your heart. Something you wished to keep to yourself for now. Nothing was said, you only stared up at the ceiling to ponder.
Being distracted with your thoughts allowed Mina to glance at your skin. Mina’s eyes lingered on your form for a moment, her gaze drifting to the intricate tattoos that adorned your skin. The golden markings were elegant and mysterious, winding across your arms and shoulders like threads of light, their patterns telling a story only you knew. She had always been curious about them, fascinated by the way they seemed to shimmer faintly under the water’s surface, but she knew better than to pry.
She still remembered how you’d instinctively hidden them back in Niniel’s Veil when the two of you had been at the natural hot springs. The way you had shifted your position, almost self-consciously, to shield away these markings. Mina wondered what those tattoos meant. Were they symbols of something painful, or perhaps something sacred. Maybe a memory was tied to them? Whatever it was, you kept it close and guarded. The truth was drawn into your skin but only you were able to read it.
Mina opened her mouth as if to ask, but then closed it, deciding against it. After seeing how secretive you were about the tattoos, maybe you had your own reasons. Personal ones that you weren’t ready to share yet. Mina might be curious but she figured with time you’d open up. Instead, she put on her warm smile and broke the thoughtful silence. “You know,” her words playfully cut through the mist, “I think we’ve soaked long enough. As much as I love it here, there’s a whole city out there calling our names. We should go shopping– grab some fresh clothes and see what Edresa has to offer.”
Snapping from your thoughts, you glanced at her. Smiling back as you straightened up, preparing yourself to leave the baths. “Yeah, I could use a change of scenery,” you agreed, pushing yourself up from the water. Water sloshed around your figure as you wiped your face with a wet towel. “And I definitely wouldn’t mind getting out of these travel-worn clothes. Edresa’s got some of the best markets. We might find something that is actually cute.”
Delighted by your willingness to join her, she rose up with a cheery grin. Practically ready to get out to explore the city and do some well-deserved shopping. “Perfect! I’ve been dying to get my hands on something new. And hey, maybe we can pick up something for the boys, too! Assuming they would wear what we get them.”
You both laughed, stepping out of the tubs and wrapping yourselves in the soft, fluffy towels provided by the inn. The cool air hit your skin, and it felt refreshing after soaking in hot water for so long. As you dressed in fresh clothes and gathered your things, your mind raced with the potential wares you guys could get. Each passing thought got you pumped to begin browsing the stalls.
The streets of Edresa were still alive as you and Mina strolled through the teeming marketplace. The air was filled with the rich scents of spices, fresh flowers, and the sweet aroma of baked goods, drawing you deeper into the heart of the city. Each stall put out their best wares, hoping to catch the eyes of onlookers. Mina’s eyes sparkled as she browsed through racks of colourful fabrics and trinkets, eagerly pulling you along from one shop to the next. The two of you lost yourselves in the simple pleasure of window-shopping, laughing, and exploring all the city had to offer. As you moved through the vibrant market, you felt more at ease than you had in a long time. Whatever secrets you carried, they could wait for another day. Tonight was about embracing the here and now, in the company of a friend who understood what you needed.
All you could hear as you walked through were the sounds of compliments, bartering and the occasional burst of laughter. The fashion district of the market was a lively painting for the eyes. Stalls were overflowing with brightly coloured textiles, shimmering jewellery, and an array of finely crafted goods that represented Edresa’s rich culture and artistry. Mina’s excitement was infectious, darting from one vendor to the next, eyes wide with each finding. You could tell she needed this. She was basically buzzing as she admired pieces of fabric.
Eventually Mina gravitated toward the stalls draped in bright, eye-catching fabrics, eagerly picking out pieces that complemented her rosy pink skin. You watched as she tried a few articles of clothing on as you skimmed through the racks. Silks in vivid blues and purples, and a flowing dress in a dazzling shade of yellow that seemed to radiate against her complexion. She twirled in front of a mirror, admiring the way the fabric caught the light.
“These are perfect!” Mina exclaimed, holding up a billowy skirt embroidered with silver threads. “It’s been ages since I got something fun to wear.”
You smiled, equally captivated by the sheer variety of garments on display. Your eyes were drawn to a stall lined with more earth-toned garments. A few of your cream tunics had been torn, it was about time you needed a new one. The pieces were both practical and elegant, suited for travel but with a touch of refinement. You picked up a finely tailored tunic in this creamy ivory colour, embroidered with gold thread. It had subtle patterns reminiscent of the lush foliage of Niniel’s Veil. Details of leaves and flora around the collar and the ends of the tunic. It was light to the touch and suited your complexion. Your hands travel around the fabric to find that there were even discreet pockets sewn into the sides for practicality.
“This looks like it’s made for you,” Mina noted, picking up a dark leather belt that matched the tunic perfectly. The belt’s clasp was engraved with a swirling design, adding just enough detail to elevate the outfit. Gently accepting the belt, you inspected the leather and design. Mina definitely had a keen eye for fashion, this was a fantastic find.
You nodded as your fingers ran over the leather, wrapping it around the cream top. “It’s perfect. You got a good eye Mina.” Adding to the outfit, you grabbed a pair of dark brown breeches that complimented the outfit. The material would last through all the climbing and running you’ll end up doing. Honestly, you were just relieved to update your wardrobe after trekking through Niniel’s Veil for that long.
As you and Mina continued to browse through, you suddenly heard a familiar voice cutting through the noise of the market. “Well, look who’s playing dress-up,” Bakugou drawled, approaching you both with Kirishima, Sero, and Denki on his flank. The boys were holding skewers of grilled meats and sampling various street foods, clearly enjoying their exploration of Edresa’s culinary delights.
Denki grinned as he looked over your purchases. “Oh, fancy seeing you two here. You should really check the snack stalls next.” He barely finished his last words before he chomped down on the turkey leg he was holding. The seasoning and juices smearing over the corners of his lips.
Mina watched him munch on the meat barbarically, flipping her new shawl over her shoulder. “By the Hells… you eat like a brute.” she took a step back as she watched the blond devour his turkey leg. Denki was about to retort, not even swallowing the chunk of meat in his mouth until Mina stopped him. “Don’t talk with your mouth full–!”
Kirishima chuckled, holding up a skewer topped with glistening, roasted vegetables. “This city’s got some of the best food we’ve seen in a while. Can’t miss out on the experience.” He glanced at your new outfit and grinned wider. Gathering ideas that perhaps he should also do some clothes shopping next. “But I’ve got to admit, you guys are killing it. Nice to see you out of the usual travel gear.”
Smirking, Sero leaned in as he eyed Mina’s bright yellow dress. “Look at you, Mina. Trying to blind our foes with your tastes? I like it.”
Mina let out a haughty laugh, rolling her eyes with her arms sassily positioned on her hips. “I’m not taking advice from your sloppy ass. Not when I look better than you, even at my worst.” she shot back, nudging him playfully as she leaned in to steal a pork bun from the tray he was holding.
Bakugou, who had been silent until now, was appraising the outfit you had fixed up. His eyes lingered briefly on the tunic you held, assessing it quietly before he gave his verdict on your choices. Flicking his gaze up to meet yours, he finally speaks. “Not bad. At least you won’t look like you’ve been dragged through a swamp anymore,” he remarked, begrudgingly complimenting you as his hand reached out to feel the material. “Now if only you’d learn how to stay out of traps.”
You smirked, crossing your arms as you met his gaze. Amused by both his compliment and jab. “Yeah, yeah, and maybe if you’d learn how to keep your mouth shut, we’d get through this trip without half the trouble. You’re not going to let me forget the one time I fell into a trap huh?”
Kirishima laughed, clapping Bakugou on the shoulder. Tugging him along to continue their own adventures in the food section. “Come on, let’s not bother them when they’re finally looking like civilised adventurers… Now we just need to figure out how to get Bakugou to wear an actual top.”
“Shut up.” Bakugou scoffed, lightly elbowing Kirishima’s side for that comment. He turned back toward the food stalls, shoving his hands into his pockets.
You and Mina shared a smile, continuing to do more clothes shopping. Purchasing a few more articles of clothing for the trip ahead. Eventually the two of you joined the boys on their quest for food. The sky dipped into a honey hue as the lot of you returned to the inn, the golden light casting long shadows across the cobblestone streets. The day’s excitement slowly faded into weariness as you all settled into the inn’s common room, ready to collect on the round of drinks that Bakugou owed. The atmosphere was mellow, with the clinking of mugs and the murmur of conversation filling the space as you all gathered around a large wooden table.
The drinks flowed freely, and the food was hearty. A huge difference compared to the rations the group were subjected to whilst on the road. Like always, laughter and lighthearted banter passed between you all as you discussed the journey ahead. Kirishima was enthusiastically recounting some of the tougher fights you’d all faced, while Mina and Denki debated over what equipment the team would need. Which held more importance: rope or chalk?
In the midst of it all, the crystal pendant around your neck suddenly flashed, a soft, pulsating light that caught your attention immediately. It was a subtle flash but unmistakable. Someone was trying to reach you. The group continued to talk and laugh around you, but you knew you couldn’t ignore the call. You gently set down your mug, excusing yourself with a quick smile. “I’ll be right back,” you said, trying to keep your voice casual as you rose from the table. “Just need to check on something.”
Bakugou gave you a brief, questioning glance but didn’t press, while the others barely noticed as you slipped away. You made your way upstairs to your room, the noise of the common room fading behind you as you closed the door and moved to the small desk near the window. Removing the necklace from your neck, you carefully placed the pendant on the table.
The crystal pendant pulsed again as you touched it, a faint warmth spreading through your fingertips as you activated the connection. The light swirled and expanded, coalescing into a small, glowing orb that hovered just above the desk. The familiar voice of Tokoyami emerged from the light, low and serious. By the sound of his voice, you straightened up, already feeling on edge from how weighty his tone was.
“It’s good to see you’re still safe,” Tokoyami began, trying to keep a casual tone. It wasn’t of much use when you could sense the underlying concern. He hid it terribly. “I wished to brief you on what you’ll be facing tomorrow, but something has come to my attention that cannot wait.”
You leaned forward, listening intently. Tokoyami was not one to be alarmed easily, so whatever he had to say was worth your full attention.
“There have been fluctuations in the magic within the catacombs,” he continued, his voice dropping slightly as if speaking of something he’d rather not give form to. “It’s been growing more unstable, as if the very essence of the place is reacting to something or someone. And, more troubling, there has been a significant increase in cultist activity. They seem drawn to the disturbance, or perhaps they’re the cause of it.”
Your breath hitched slightly, but you kept your expression calm. Cultists were always a danger, but the thought of them being involved in something like this… it was concerning. And though Tokoyami didn’t say it outright, you both knew there was more at stake for you than for the others. You were different, marked in ways that made you vulnerable to certain kinds of attention. And this type of attention was one you couldn’t afford to attract.
“Be careful,” His voice sounded more grave now as he continued to warn you, “The cultists have been known to be persistent and they are particularly interested in those with unusual abilities. Keep a low profile, and don’t draw unnecessary attention to yourself. The catacombs are treacherous enough without adding this risk.”
“I’ll keep that in mind,” you replied as your mind swirled with anxiety. Swallowing hard as you attempted to keep your voice steady. “Thank you for the warning. We’ll be cautious.”
There was a brief pause, and then Tokoyami’s tone softened slightly. “You’ve always been resourceful, and I trust you’ll navigate this with the same skill you’ve shown before. But remember, you don’t have to face it alone. The others may not know everything, but they’re still your allies.”
The light from the orb flickered slightly, signalling the end of the conversation. “I’ll meet you all tomorrow as planned,” Tokoyami added, his voice returning to its usual, calm tone. “We’ll discuss the history of the catacombs and the map then. For now, rest and prepare. You’ll need your strength.”
With that, the light faded, leaving the room in quiet darkness. You sat back in your chair, letting out a slow breath as you absorbed the weight of Tokoyami’s words. The catacombs were dangerous, that much you had expected. But this added layer of threat. Insane wackjobs that were going to be a royal pain if the group ran into them. The presence of cultists was a complication you couldn’t ignore. You could only pray that you wouldn’t run into them.
Still, you tried to ease your worries. Your hands sliding up your arm to trace your tattoos before pulling the sleeve of your cardigan over it. Get a grip. A deep exhale slipped past your lips as the grip on your sleeve tightened. You’ve faced challenges like these before, ones that tested your limits and forced you into difficult situations. This would be no different. And Tokoyami was right. You weren’t alone. You had your friends, even if they didn’t know the full truth. That was enough. It would have to be enough.
After a moment, you rose from the chair. You had your warning, and tomorrow would bring whatever it would bring. For now, all you could do was return to the group and enjoy the rest of the evening. At the same time, mentally prepare for the worst.
As you made your way back downstairs, the sounds of laughter and conversation grew louder, welcoming you back into the warmth of the inn. Putting a smile on as you rejoined your friends, slipping back into the easy banter and friendship that had become your refuge. No matter what tomorrow held, you had tonight.
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a/n: i finished my thesis so things should be a lot more consistent :)) @chocogoldie @devils-adversary @l0kisbitch @miikii0 @onlyisaa @sleepisfortheweakpooh @helena-way07 @enzstr @qardasngan @rednicotine @318474hello @d4rlinxs @sgtrjivc @ky0ruuu @naliarefira @pro-herokatsukispubies @kitsunetori @emotionallysalty @disappointmentonly @icarusthekid
pairing: barbarian! katsuki bakugou x reader (female)
summary: a bard approaches a lone barbarian in search for a story to tell. Who could have known that the barbarian end up being such a romantic tale.
notes: fantasy au, fluff, strangers to lovers, slow burn, bakusquad, barbarian bakugou
word count: 8.2k
part list
part two: chapter list
a/n: happy new year all! i apologise for being so spotty with my writing and I'll do my best for my few lovelie readers <3
You’d think that after navigating the team safely through Niniel’s Veil, Bakugou would start trusting you more to lead. The barking directed at you made you wonder why you held such an expectation. Of course, Bakugou would be challenging you again. It wasn’t that he didn’t trust you, he does (he will never admit it outloud). But his need to take charge always got the better of him. It’s another day and it starts with the two of you bickering over which route to take on the way to Edresa, each stubbornly defending your own path. Bakugou being a hardass didn’t really surprise you but could anyone blame you for having hope for a peaceful day?
As soon as you realised Edresa was your next stop, you reached out to an old friend, a fellow cartographer who you met in a temple. He prayed next to you and before you knew it, a conversation started. The both of you worked together on a few projects, travelling and mapping out locations until he left for Edresa. Last you heard from him, he had risked mapping out the catacombs himself and actually done it. You never doubted him, you simply were aware of how dangerous those catacombs were. Hence why you contacted him last night. He was one of the few with firsthand knowledge of the place, and his insights could prove invaluable. But that was a problem for later. Right now, the immediate challenge was arguing with this thick-skulled, contentious dragonborn at your side.
Once again, Bakugou was arguing about the best route to take. You swear, each time he sees a shortcut, he’s adamant on taking it no matter the danger. His words irritated the skin of your ears, it were as if he was more relentless, more annoying if he was up against you.
“Do you really want to go through there? It’s laced with traps,” you said, exasperation lacing your voice as you pointed to the narrow and dark trail Bakugou insisted on taking. A map didn’t have to tell you not to venture through there. Simply based on the fact this trial went through a thicket of woods as well as it wasn’t lit, there wasn’t a good reason to go through it. But sure— it ‘cuts 30 minutes out’ of the journey.
In response to your exasperation, a defiant glare stares into you, unbothered by your concerns. “It’ll be faster than taking the long way around,” he countered, his tongue clicked sharply. With a stubbornly confident expression on his face that you’ve grown tired of.
Trying to keep your frustration in check, you rubbed your temples. Your fingers attempted to massage the forming headache away, though it would prove it be useless. “Yeah, faster right up until we end up stuck in some pit or fighting off whatever’s guarding that shortcut. You can’t just rush through every obstacle, Bakugou.” You must have said this to him a thousand times at this point. How did you both always argue like this?
He huffed, crossing his arms as he continued to scan the path ahead. “We don’t have time to waste tiptoeing around every little problem. We ain’t got time to lose, and I’m not about to let some overgrown trail slow us down.”
And so the cartographer and barbarian continued to squabble, neither willing to give an inch. Their argument crackled in the air as the rest of the group hung back, watching the exchange like a familiar, albeit slightly ridiculous, routine. They could only shake their head in amusement, probably betting on who would win again. Despite your differences, Niniel’s Viel had built trust between you. Even in moments like these where you both disagreed on the right path forward, that trust was buried underneath it all. A part of you always knew that the real challenge wasn’t just getting to Edresa; it was navigating each other’s stubbornness along the way.
It was a familiar push-and-pull, the kind that had defined your partnership from the beginning. Bakugou’s impatience was as fierce as ever, only matched by your persistence to avoid unnecessary risks. But both knew that getting stuck in a shouting match wasn’t helping anyone.
You took a deep breath, forcing yourself to rein in the irritation simmering beneath the surface. A deep breath that grounded you from throwing a punch. “Look, Bakugou,” you began, trying to inject some calm into your tone. “I get that you want to get there fast, I do too. But if we rush through every shortcut that looks promising, we’re going to end up making more trouble for ourselves. We need to be smart about this.”
Bakugou’s eyes narrowed, but the fire in his gaze dimmed slightly as he weighed your words. He ran a hand through his hair, trying to come to a decision or at least come to some middle ground. “Fine,” he muttered, though it was clear it took effort to say. “We’ll check out your route first. But if it looks like a dead end or a waste of time, we take mine. No dragging it out, no arguing. Just a final decision.”
You hesitated, surprised by the compromise but not willing to let the opportunity slip. Was he in a good mood of some sorts? “Alright,” you agreed, nodding. “We’ll do a quick scout of my route. If it’s clear and manageable, we go that way. If not, we double back and take your shortcut. But if we hit any traps on your path, you’re buying the first round when we get to Edresa.”
Bakugou snorted at your words. He’s buying the first round if there’s traps? As long as they got to Edresa quicker, he didn’t care. A smirk broke through his frustration, amused by your little proposal. “Deal. And when my way turns out to be faster, I’m holding you to that. No whining when I’m right.” His arms crossed over his chest, that smirk still present on his lips, “Oh, and if we don’t run into any traps, you’re paying.”
You rolled your eyes at his words. That trail would be littered with traps, the question really was if they could avoid it all. Still you couldn’t help but grin at his added condition. “Sure, tough guy. We’ll see who’s buying who drinks.”
With the compromise set, the group moved forward to check out both routes. The tension settled into something lighter— it wasn’t perfect, but you both knew there’d be more arguments ahead. A reality where you both don’t argue does not exist. Though even if your styles clashed, you could find a way to work together. In the end, the group took the shortcut, but that didn’t necessarily mean Bakugou had won. Sure, the route was faster, but speed came with its own risks. Risks that quickly became all too real when the group stumbled into an unexpected trap. Truth be told, it wasn't everyone who got caught up in the mess.
It was just you, out of all people. You.
Shocking really when you are the most cautious one in the group. The one who preached for the longer but safer route. And yet it was you who fell into the trap. You blamed it entirely on Bakugou being his usual, loud-mouthed self. You were focused on trekking carefully through this unknown path, carefully scanning the uneven ground. Trying to avoid suspicious bumps that could potentially be traps.
However, it’s not easy for you to concentrate when Bakugou’s voice boomed with some smart-ass remark. You couldn’t even remember what he was saying. Whatever stupid comment he made, it broke your concentration and you took a seemingly harmless step forward. The ground gave way, and a rope trap snapped around your legs, yanking you up into the air. A loud yelp tore through your throat as it zipped you up. Now there you were, dangling upside down from a tree, your legs bound by a rope, arms crossed tightly over your chest and an unmistakably pissed-off look on your face.
Meanwhile, Bakugou was having the time of his life. He doubled over, his laughter echoing through the forest. His rambunctious laughter threatened to alert whoever set the traps up. Not like he cared. What he cared about was this priceless sight of you sprung up by your legs. “No fucking way,” he guffawed, clutching his sides. “Look who got caught in the damn trap! I thought you were the one meant to help me out of traps.”
You shot him a withering glare, eyes twitching in frustration and embarrassment. Your cheeks burned as your patience thinned out with each laugh. Just your luck. “Yeah, keep laughing, loudmouth,” you snapped, the words had a bite to them. Clearly annoyed but you were stuck. And the person who’s meant to be helping was bursting with laughter like this was the funniest thing he’d ever seen. “This wouldn’t have happened if you weren’t yelling your head off about god-knows-what. You’re louder than a damn war horn.”
Bakugou wiped a tear from his eye, still grinning as he approached. Even his strut was irritatingly cocky. “Oh, so now it’s my fault you can’t watch your step? Face it, you just got sloppy. Happens to the best of us.” He leaned in, mockingly inspecting the ropes. His fiery eyes twinkled with amusement as he met your glare. “Or maybe you just wanted me to save you. Didn’t know you were so eager.”
“Fuck you.” You spat out, refusing to give him any sort of satisfaction. You began to struggle in your confinements, wondering if you could slip out. But each wiggle only came with disappointment. It really was up to the bonehead to get you down. “Just get me down, Bakugou, before I decide hanging upside down is better than listening to you gloat.”
He smirked, taking his time as he inspected the mechanism holding the trap. “Nah, I think I’ll take my time. Good view from down here. Besides, maybe you’ll learn to appreciate my directions more when you’re not too busy tripping over your own feet.”
You huffed, swinging slightly as you tried to maintain what little dignity you had left. “Oh, I’m appreciating something, alright. Mainly that you’re still as insufferable as ever.”
Bakugou finally cut the rope (without warning, of course) and you dropped to the ground in an ungraceful heap. You let out a low groan from the harsh fall. To ease the ache you felt on your head, your hand rose to rub the back of your skull. Was it really too much to give a warning next time? In turn, he extended a hand, still wearing that smug smirk that you wanted to punch off. “Next time, maybe you’ll actually listen.” his voice rumbled with amusement.
You grabbed his hand, pulling yourself up with a huff. Great, now he was going to be insufferable about this. Was this going to last for the whole day? A week? You barely spare him a glance as you straighten up, muttering bitterly in response. “Or maybe I’ll just find a better way to tune you out.”
As you dusted yourself off and shot Bakugou one last glare, the rest of the group finally caught up, having heard the commotion. Mina was the first to arrive, her legs skipping over to catch a glimpse of what was going on. She took one look at the scene: the remnants of the trap, your dishevelled appearance, and Bakugou’s still-present smirk. Mina immediately burst into laughter. At this point, you’ve accepted that this wouldn’t be let down for a while.
“Oh my god, no way!” Mina exclaimed as she tried to catch her breath. She honestly couldn’t believe she missed this. If only she walked quicker, perhaps then she could gotten a glimpse. “You? Caught in a trap?! I wish I’d seen it from the start!”
Kirishima stepped by Mina, hand going through his red locks. He couldn’t hide the wide grin already forming on his face. “You two are always at it, huh?” he said, shaking his head as he glanced between you and Bakugou. “But seriously, are you okay?” His concern was genuine, but with the way his lips twitched, it was clear that he was holding back a laugh.
“Yeah, yeah, I’m fine,” you grumbled, brushing off the last bits of dirt. “Just a little caught off guard, that’s all.” You shot a look at Bakugou, who was still grinning like he’d won some kind of prize. You were just waiting for everyone’s reactions so everyone could move on and continue with the journey.
Sero and Denki came running up just in time to hear the tail end of your conversation. Sero raised an eyebrow, taking in the scene with a wry smile. His hands found his hips as he studied the scene. “Let me guess, Bakugou’s shortcut, right?” he asked, smirking at the confirmation in your eyes. It was spelled out just by the expression on your face.
Denki began to guffaw at the realisation. In between his laughs, he pointed between the two of you. “You guys are always bickering and getting each other into trouble.” He said, another grin joining the group.
“For the record, it wasn’t my fault.” you shot back, attempting to defend yourself. Though you couldn’t help but smile a little at their reactions. Seeing everyone laugh and lighten up did make you feel warm. Even if you were the butt of the joke.
Bakugou rolled his eyes at your flimsy defence, still replaying the memory of you falling for the trap. Still riding the wave of watching you hung upside down, needing his help. “Keep telling yourself that,” he scoffed, snickering at the glare you shot him.
Kirishima clapped a hand on Bakugou’s shoulder, still grinning. “You really shouldn’t tease her so much, man. But I guess that’s just how you two work, huh?”
“But hey, if this is how you guys get along, I’m all for it. Makes the journey a lot more entertaining.” Denki joined in once he finally stopped laughing.
Sero leaned against a tree. After learning that you fell into a trap, he checked the tree for any traps so he wouldn’t be next. “Let’s just try to make it to Edresa without getting tied up again, alright? We’ve got enough to worry about without you two at each other's necks.” he commented, still grinning.
You couldn’t help but roll your eyes, easing up as the group joked around. As the laughter faded, the group prepared to continue on. Despite how unpleasant it was to fall into a trap, it meant Bakugou owed the group a round of drinks. But you also couldn’t complain too much about his methods. Taking the shortcut had saved precious time, and now the group was only two more hours from the city of Edresa. The mood had lightened considerably, with everyone already talking about settling into a cosy inn and indulging in some hot, freshly cooked meals after days of surviving on dry rations.
As the party trudged along the final stretch of their journey to Edresa, the conversation inevitably turned to the catacombs and the mysterious informant you had contacted for guidance. Curiosity rippled through the group, and one by one, they began asking about your mysterious friend. The one with the knowledge of the labyrinthine tunnels hidden beneath Edresa. It wasn’t lost on anyone that navigating such a place would require more than just maps and instinct.
“So, who’s this contact of yours?” Sero asked, adjusting his pack as he shot you a curious glance. “Anyone we need to worry about?”
You shook your head, a small smile playing at the corners of your lips. “No, nothing like that. He’s a friend though he is rather reserved. Not the talkative type, but he knows the catacombs better than anyone. His name is Tokoyami, an Aarakocra I’ve worked with before. If there’s anyone who can give us the layout of those tunnels, it’s him.”
Mina tilted her head as she listened to your words. Another question flew your way, “Tokoyami? What’s he like? Is he going to guide us through the catacombs?”
You hesitated, considering your response thoughtfully. How does one describe him? “He’s… noble and also very focused. He doesn’t do small talk. He’s not likely to guide us himself, though. He’s got his own code, and he doesn’t stray far from it. But his maps and insights are solid, and he’ll share what he knows as long as we don’t waste his time.”
Bakugou’s brow arched at your words, trying to form some sort of image of this mysterious friend of yours. “He better not just be another pain in the ass.” He grumbled, adjusting the equipment on his back as he trudged on.
“You’re the pain in the ass Bakugou.” You swiftly jabbed back, shaking your head as you continued to describe the Aarakocra. “Tokoyami’s the type who thinks deeply before he decides on anything. If he’s helping, it’s because he believes there’s a reason to. He doesn’t take to guiding parties, though. Doesn’t see it as his responsibility. He’s more likely to hand over his notes and expect us to figure it out ourselves.”
“Hey, as long as he’s giving us something useful, that’s good enough for me. We just need a solid map and a little direction. We can handle ourselves, especially if you’re here as our guide.” Kirishima commented with a shrug, confident in your skills and not too worried about the next adventure.
“So, no stories, no friendly advice? Just business?” Denki asked once more, seeming slightly deflated at the idea of Tokoyami’s reserved nature.
You smiled, knowing exactly what Denki meant. “Just business. But trust me, the information he has is worth more than any conversation. The catacombs are no joke. If there’s anything lurking down there, Tokoyami’s maps will keep us one step ahead.”
The conversation revolving around Tokoyami died down and the group moved on to other topics to fill the journey. As the group continued toward Edresa, each were curious to what this segment would hold for them. The prospect of exploring the catacombs was daunting, but knowing that they weren’t going in blind offered some comfort. They had you and Tokoyami’s expertise as support. You could manage the catacombs so long as you had one of the Aarakocra’s maps. Even so, you knew he would be watching from the shadows in case anything happened.
Two hours flew by and the group finally reached Edresa. Its grand city unfolding before them as they passed through its towering gates. The mere moment you stepped foot on Edresa’s grounds, the rejuvenating energy of the city lifted your spirits. It didn’t take a glance to see the stark contrast between the bustling city and the dangerous paths they had travelled to get here. The streets were alive with movement, filled with a flurry of colours and sounds that struck you the moment you crossed into the city.
Merchants hawked their wares from vibrant stalls, their voices mingling with the clatter of wheels on cobblestone and the rhythmic beat of distant music. Children darted between market stands, laughing and chasing one another in games. Street performers entertained passersby with feats of magic, acrobatics, and music, their displays drawing crowds of curious onlookers. The air was rich with the scent of spices and muddled compilation of aromas. This was Edresa.
You took it all in, scanning the busy streets with the trained eye of a cartographer accustomed to navigating unfamiliar terrain. Edresa’s charm was undeniable, with its winding alleys, towering spires, and the constant hum of activity that made the city feel like it had a pulse of its own. It wasn’t your first time here but the city had such life that was impossible to ignore. But the allure of the city’s surface was only a distraction from the ancient, hidden world that lay beneath its foundations.
“We’ll find a place to rest first,” you called over your shoulder, motioning for the others to follow as you threaded your way through the busy crowd. “A good inn where we can get some proper food and a decent night’s sleep. We’ll need to be sharp when we head into the catacombs.”
Bakugou grunted in agreement, his eyes scanning the surroundings with a mix of scrutiny and mild irritation at the crowded chaos. His broad shoulders pushed past people as he tried to keep up with you. “Can’t argue with that. We’ve been roughing it too long. Need to get everyone back on their feet.”
Mina was already admiring the vibrant shops and colourful fabrics displayed in windows. She had already decided that she needed to shop. “I love it here!” she exclaimed, spinning around to take in the city’s sights. “First stop: a hot bath. Second stop: shopping!” She caught your eye, and you nodded with a smile, knowing she’d been craving a break from the endless wilderness. You too shared the same sentiment and couldn’t wait to take a moment to live in civilization. Even if it were for just a bit.
Sero and Denki were equally taken by the city’s lively atmosphere, pointing out different food stalls and eyeing the local street food with keen interest. “Think they have any of those skewers you talked about?” Denki asked as he licked his lips, taking a sniff at the wafting aroma.
“Only one way to find out,” Sero replied with an eager grin, already planning to hit up one of the stalls.
Kirishima stuck close by, keeping an eye on the group’s supplies and making sure nothing got left behind in the bustle. Making sure no pesky pickpockets came by and swiped them. “Let’s get settled first,” he said, glancing between you and Bakugou. “We’ll be ready for anything once we’ve got our bearings.”
You led them through the winding streets, navigating the crowds with ease as you spotted the familiar sign of an inn. A sturdy, welcoming building with a swinging metal sign that read “The Silver Lantern.” It was a place you’d stayed at before: clean, comfortable, and just busy enough that no one would pay too much attention to a group like yours.
Pushing open the heavy wooden door, you were greeted by the warm glow of lanterns and the murmur of voices inside. The inn smelled of roasted meat, fresh bread, and the faint, comforting scent of old wood. It was exactly the kind of respite you all needed. Comfortable beds, actual baths and real food. You turned to the group, smiling at the sense of relief on their faces. “Welcome to civilization, everyone. Let’s get some rooms, some food, and finally, a decent night’s rest. Tomorrow, we figure out how to tackle those catacombs.”
With that, the group settled into the inn, the promise of a warm meal and a soft bed lifting everyone’s spirits. But even as the city’s comforts wrapped around you, just underneath you were the catacombs you all would have to venture through soon. For now, though, you let yourself savour the simple pleasure of being somewhere safe and warm. Soon enough, you all would be risking your lives once more for the next artefact.
Even after the full day of odd jobs, the group were mindful of their dwindling coin purses. You guys still had to go shopping. Rations, health pots, equipment– all sorts that hadn’t been purchased just yet. So the group opted for two rooms for the night, a decision that was equal parts practical and amusing. Stingy or not, it was enough for a comfortable stay. You and Mina lucked out, sharing a cozy, neatly furnished room with two soft beds and a small window overlooking the bustling streets below. Meanwhile, the four men… Bakugou, Kirishima, Sero, and Denki were crammed into the adjoining room, a sight that had you both chuckling when you saw the broad-shouldered warriors squabbling over bed space.
As you and Mina unpacked, you could hear faint bickering through the thin walls, Bakugou’s frustrated grumble unmistakable as he argued with Denki about who was hogging the covers. Mina flopped onto her bed with a contented sigh, stretching out her limbs and kicking off her boots with a flourish. Thank god it was just the two of you. You didn’t dare think of sharing a room with those guys. The muffled sounds of bickering drifted through the thin walls separating your room from the boys’. You exchanged an amused glance, pausing to listen as the distinct voices of your companions filtered through, each one layered with its own brand of annoyance and humour.
“Oi, Kirishima, you’ve got to move! You’re hogging all the space,” Denki’s voice rang out, already whining and complaining. It hadn’t been that long since everyone’s settled in the room.
“Man, I’m not that big!” Kirishima defended, but the creak of the bed suggested otherwise. He sat up, glaring at the messy pile of gear that Denki haphazardly threw on the bed.“You’re the one taking up half the bed with all your gear.”
Sero’s laughter followed, scanning the situation. Obviously there was only one solution. “Guys, seriously? It’s just like babysitting kids. Just throw Denki on the floor if he’s that much of a problem.”
“Wait—! Don’t actually– Kirishima–!” A hard thump followed through.
Mina barely stifled her giggles as she pulled her hair back, tying it up as she listened along. “Sounds like a mess already. Can you believe they’re fighting over bed space? It’s like they’ve never shared a room before.”
Bakugou’s yelling cut through the rest, commanding some semblance of peace and quiet. “Will you all shut up? If anyone’s getting the floor, it’s Sparky. I’m not dealing with him tossing and turning all night.”
Denki’s indignant voice piped up again as he started to rise from being thrown onto the floor. “Hey! Why do I have to be on the floor? Kirishima’s the one taking up half the room with his fat ass, and Bakugou’s the one who snores!”
“When have I ever snored?!”
Mina snorted, covering her mouth to suppress her laughter. The both of you didn’t think free entertainment came with the room. “Honestly, can you imagine having to deal with that all night? We got so lucky.”
You nodded, trying not to laugh as Bakugou’s threats and Denki’s whining blended into a chaotic, comical symphony. “Yeah, no thanks. I’d rather have a little peace and quiet. Plus, I don’t think I could handle Bakugou snoring in my ear all night.”
A crash could be heard in the middle of your conversation, earning a laugh from the both of you. Mina leaned back against her pillow as she rummaged through her bag. Her fingers swiping through her pack as she spoke once more. “Or Denki whining about every little thing. I’d be tempted to smother him with a pillow. This” She lifted her head up and gestured around the quaint room, “is perfect. It’s like a little slice of heaven after everything we’ve been through.”
You couldn’t agree more. The fluffy bed and Mina's comforting company was truly all you needed right about now. You leaned against the wall as you unpacked a few of your belongings. “It really is. We deserve this, you know? Just some time to unwind without worrying about traps or getting lost.”
Pulling out a fresh set of clothes, Mina picked out something light and comfortable for the hot springs. The sight of it also had you pulling out a simple garment for the baths. “Speaking of unwinding, I am so ready to hit those hot baths. My muscles are screaming after all that walking.”
She didn’t have to convince you. For you had been anticipating the soothing waters since you got here. From prior stays here, the one thing you looked forward to was this bathhouse. “Yeah, let’s go before the guys beat us to it. I’ve been dreaming of a proper soak since we got out of Niniel’s Veil.” you hummed as you tilted your head towards the door.
With a shared grin and the sounds of the boys’ bickering still echoing faintly behind you, the two of you quickly changed and made your way down to the inn’s hot baths. The path led you through a narrow hallway, lit by warm lanterns and lined with rows of shelves stocked with towels. The bathhouses were tucked away behind the main building, surrounded by a low wooden fence that offered privacy to their guests. A fellow attendant offered towels and led you both to the arranged baths.
Humidity hit you as soon as you stepped through the wooden gate. Inside were two large wooden baths: one filled with hot water that would ease your tender muscles and another filled with cool water to freshen yourself up. Wisps of steam rose from the surface, curling up into the air like ghostly tendrils, illuminated by the soft, flickering glow of lanterns hung around the perimeter. The lanterns bathed the area in a warm, golden light, casting playful shadows on the walls and making the entire space feel like a warm safe haven.
Mina dipped a toe into the water, shivering in delight as the warmth seeped through her skin. “Oh, this is perfect,” she sighed, sinking slowly into the hot, steaming pool. She let out a contented groan, her head tipping back as she submerged up to her shoulders. “I needed this so badly. It’s like all the stress is just melting away.”
You followed her in, the water embracing you with a soothing heat that eased the tension in your muscles. The heat instantly welcomed your body, the warmth seeping into your skin. “Yeah, I didn’t realise how sore I was until now,” you admitted, closing your eyes as you leaned back against the smooth stones. “Feels like the first real break we’ve had in ages.”
Heat massaged the tired muscles and eased your usually alert senses. Neither fought the relaxing atmosphere and simply melted into it. You shut your eyes as you leaned back, resting your head on the edge of the bath. For a bit, there was a shared silence between the two of you. Slowly emerging from her daze, Mina glanced at you with a softening smile as the steam curled around you both. “I’m really glad you decided to stick with us,” she whispered quietly, letting her voice break the quiet. “Niniel’s Veil was no joke, and I know it wasn’t easy… but having you there made a huge difference.”
You opened your eyes, meeting her gaze through the rising steam. Hearing the sincerity in her voice. Coming on this journey was just by chance, but… “Honestly? I’m glad I stuck around too. I’ve been on my own so much that I forgot what it’s like to actually have people you can count on.” you admitted in a careful voice, as if the admission were fragile.
At your words, Mina couldn’t help but smile. A part of her had wondered if you stayed on out of polite obligation. But it was clear that you were part of their family. Her eyes glimmered brightly even in the dim lantern light. “I get that. And you did more than just stick around, you’ve been leading us through this crazy mess, keeping us on track. I know we all joke around, but we’d be lost without you.”
You laughed softly at her comment, shaking your head. “Trust me, it’s been a learning curve. But… I wouldn’t have it any other way. You guys are fun and we all work well together. Even with Bakugou.”
Mina managed a short laugh at your closing statement, rolling her eyes playfully. “Yeah, well, Bakugou’s Bakugou. But I think even he’s glad you’re with us, even if he’d rather die than say it.”
A comfortable silence blanketed the both of you, the gentle bubbling of the springs and the occasional distant chirp of critters from the outside filled the space. You closed your eyes once more and let the weight of the journey finally lift from your shoulders. All the worries and stresses falling off your skin and into the heated waters. Niniel’s Veil had given you a headache throughout the journey, and now with Edresa, there were new things to worry about. Yet you held no regrets being here.
“I think… I needed this,” after a while you spoke up, keeping your voice low as you arranged your thoughts. “Not just this bath, but everything. The challenge, the team… It's been a long time since I felt like I was part of something bigger.”
Your companion listened with a serene smile. Her lips part as she formulated a response. “...Yeah?” A hum left her mouth as she recalled the past journey through the twisting thicket, “Well… Niniel’s Veil was just the beginning. There’s so much more ahead, but we can handle it all so long as we’re together. Hopefully, you’ll stick around for that long.”
Her words quelled a certain longing in your heart. Something you wished to keep to yourself for now. Nothing was said, you only stared up at the ceiling to ponder.
Being distracted with your thoughts allowed Mina to glance at your skin. Mina’s eyes lingered on your form for a moment, her gaze drifting to the intricate tattoos that adorned your skin. The golden markings were elegant and mysterious, winding across your arms and shoulders like threads of light, their patterns telling a story only you knew. She had always been curious about them, fascinated by the way they seemed to shimmer faintly under the water’s surface, but she knew better than to pry.
She still remembered how you’d instinctively hidden them back in Niniel’s Veil when the two of you had been at the natural hot springs. The way you had shifted your position, almost self-consciously, to shield away these markings. Mina wondered what those tattoos meant. Were they symbols of something painful, or perhaps something sacred. Maybe a memory was tied to them? Whatever it was, you kept it close and guarded. The truth was drawn into your skin but only you were able to read it.
Mina opened her mouth as if to ask, but then closed it, deciding against it. After seeing how secretive you were about the tattoos, maybe you had your own reasons. Personal ones that you weren’t ready to share yet. Mina might be curious but she figured with time you’d open up. Instead, she put on her warm smile and broke the thoughtful silence. “You know,” her words playfully cut through the mist, “I think we’ve soaked long enough. As much as I love it here, there’s a whole city out there calling our names. We should go shopping– grab some fresh clothes and see what Edresa has to offer.”
Snapping from your thoughts, you glanced at her. Smiling back as you straightened up, preparing yourself to leave the baths. “Yeah, I could use a change of scenery,” you agreed, pushing yourself up from the water. Water sloshed around your figure as you wiped your face with a wet towel. “And I definitely wouldn’t mind getting out of these travel-worn clothes. Edresa’s got some of the best markets. We might find something that is actually cute.”
Delighted by your willingness to join her, she rose up with a cheery grin. Practically ready to get out to explore the city and do some well-deserved shopping. “Perfect! I’ve been dying to get my hands on something new. And hey, maybe we can pick up something for the boys, too! Assuming they would wear what we get them.”
You both laughed, stepping out of the tubs and wrapping yourselves in the soft, fluffy towels provided by the inn. The cool air hit your skin, and it felt refreshing after soaking in hot water for so long. As you dressed in fresh clothes and gathered your things, your mind raced with the potential wares you guys could get. Each passing thought got you pumped to begin browsing the stalls.
The streets of Edresa were still alive as you and Mina strolled through the teeming marketplace. The air was filled with the rich scents of spices, fresh flowers, and the sweet aroma of baked goods, drawing you deeper into the heart of the city. Each stall put out their best wares, hoping to catch the eyes of onlookers. Mina’s eyes sparkled as she browsed through racks of colourful fabrics and trinkets, eagerly pulling you along from one shop to the next. The two of you lost yourselves in the simple pleasure of window-shopping, laughing, and exploring all the city had to offer. As you moved through the vibrant market, you felt more at ease than you had in a long time. Whatever secrets you carried, they could wait for another day. Tonight was about embracing the here and now, in the company of a friend who understood what you needed.
All you could hear as you walked through were the sounds of compliments, bartering and the occasional burst of laughter. The fashion district of the market was a lively painting for the eyes. Stalls were overflowing with brightly coloured textiles, shimmering jewellery, and an array of finely crafted goods that represented Edresa’s rich culture and artistry. Mina’s excitement was infectious, darting from one vendor to the next, eyes wide with each finding. You could tell she needed this. She was basically buzzing as she admired pieces of fabric.
Eventually Mina gravitated toward the stalls draped in bright, eye-catching fabrics, eagerly picking out pieces that complemented her rosy pink skin. You watched as she tried a few articles of clothing on as you skimmed through the racks. Silks in vivid blues and purples, and a flowing dress in a dazzling shade of yellow that seemed to radiate against her complexion. She twirled in front of a mirror, admiring the way the fabric caught the light.
“These are perfect!” Mina exclaimed, holding up a billowy skirt embroidered with silver threads. “It’s been ages since I got something fun to wear.”
You smiled, equally captivated by the sheer variety of garments on display. Your eyes were drawn to a stall lined with more earth-toned garments. A few of your cream tunics had been torn, it was about time you needed a new one. The pieces were both practical and elegant, suited for travel but with a touch of refinement. You picked up a finely tailored tunic in this creamy ivory colour, embroidered with gold thread. It had subtle patterns reminiscent of the lush foliage of Niniel’s Veil. Details of leaves and flora around the collar and the ends of the tunic. It was light to the touch and suited your complexion. Your hands travel around the fabric to find that there were even discreet pockets sewn into the sides for practicality.
“This looks like it’s made for you,” Mina noted, picking up a dark leather belt that matched the tunic perfectly. The belt’s clasp was engraved with a swirling design, adding just enough detail to elevate the outfit. Gently accepting the belt, you inspected the leather and design. Mina definitely had a keen eye for fashion, this was a fantastic find.
You nodded as your fingers ran over the leather, wrapping it around the cream top. “It’s perfect. You got a good eye Mina.” Adding to the outfit, you grabbed a pair of dark brown breeches that complimented the outfit. The material would last through all the climbing and running you’ll end up doing. Honestly, you were just relieved to update your wardrobe after trekking through Niniel’s Veil for that long.
As you and Mina continued to browse through, you suddenly heard a familiar voice cutting through the noise of the market. “Well, look who’s playing dress-up,” Bakugou drawled, approaching you both with Kirishima, Sero, and Denki on his flank. The boys were holding skewers of grilled meats and sampling various street foods, clearly enjoying their exploration of Edresa’s culinary delights.
Denki grinned as he looked over your purchases. “Oh, fancy seeing you two here. You should really check the snack stalls next.” He barely finished his last words before he chomped down on the turkey leg he was holding. The seasoning and juices smearing over the corners of his lips.
Mina watched him munch on the meat barbarically, flipping her new shawl over her shoulder. “By the Hells… you eat like a brute.” she took a step back as she watched the blond devour his turkey leg. Denki was about to retort, not even swallowing the chunk of meat in his mouth until Mina stopped him. “Don’t talk with your mouth full–!”
Kirishima chuckled, holding up a skewer topped with glistening, roasted vegetables. “This city’s got some of the best food we’ve seen in a while. Can’t miss out on the experience.” He glanced at your new outfit and grinned wider. Gathering ideas that perhaps he should also do some clothes shopping next. “But I’ve got to admit, you guys are killing it. Nice to see you out of the usual travel gear.”
Smirking, Sero leaned in as he eyed Mina’s bright yellow dress. “Look at you, Mina. Trying to blind our foes with your tastes? I like it.”
Mina let out a haughty laugh, rolling her eyes with her arms sassily positioned on her hips. “I’m not taking advice from your sloppy ass. Not when I look better than you, even at my worst.” she shot back, nudging him playfully as she leaned in to steal a pork bun from the tray he was holding.
Bakugou, who had been silent until now, was appraising the outfit you had fixed up. His eyes lingered briefly on the tunic you held, assessing it quietly before he gave his verdict on your choices. Flicking his gaze up to meet yours, he finally speaks. “Not bad. At least you won’t look like you’ve been dragged through a swamp anymore,” he remarked, begrudgingly complimenting you as his hand reached out to feel the material. “Now if only you’d learn how to stay out of traps.”
You smirked, crossing your arms as you met his gaze. Amused by both his compliment and jab. “Yeah, yeah, and maybe if you’d learn how to keep your mouth shut, we’d get through this trip without half the trouble. You’re not going to let me forget the one time I fell into a trap huh?”
Kirishima laughed, clapping Bakugou on the shoulder. Tugging him along to continue their own adventures in the food section. “Come on, let’s not bother them when they’re finally looking like civilised adventurers… Now we just need to figure out how to get Bakugou to wear an actual top.”
“Shut up.” Bakugou scoffed, lightly elbowing Kirishima’s side for that comment. He turned back toward the food stalls, shoving his hands into his pockets.
You and Mina shared a smile, continuing to do more clothes shopping. Purchasing a few more articles of clothing for the trip ahead. Eventually the two of you joined the boys on their quest for food. The sky dipped into a honey hue as the lot of you returned to the inn, the golden light casting long shadows across the cobblestone streets. The day’s excitement slowly faded into weariness as you all settled into the inn’s common room, ready to collect on the round of drinks that Bakugou owed. The atmosphere was mellow, with the clinking of mugs and the murmur of conversation filling the space as you all gathered around a large wooden table.
The drinks flowed freely, and the food was hearty. A huge difference compared to the rations the group were subjected to whilst on the road. Like always, laughter and lighthearted banter passed between you all as you discussed the journey ahead. Kirishima was enthusiastically recounting some of the tougher fights you’d all faced, while Mina and Denki debated over what equipment the team would need. Which held more importance: rope or chalk?
In the midst of it all, the crystal pendant around your neck suddenly flashed, a soft, pulsating light that caught your attention immediately. It was a subtle flash but unmistakable. Someone was trying to reach you. The group continued to talk and laugh around you, but you knew you couldn’t ignore the call. You gently set down your mug, excusing yourself with a quick smile. “I’ll be right back,” you said, trying to keep your voice casual as you rose from the table. “Just need to check on something.”
Bakugou gave you a brief, questioning glance but didn’t press, while the others barely noticed as you slipped away. You made your way upstairs to your room, the noise of the common room fading behind you as you closed the door and moved to the small desk near the window. Removing the necklace from your neck, you carefully placed the pendant on the table.
The crystal pendant pulsed again as you touched it, a faint warmth spreading through your fingertips as you activated the connection. The light swirled and expanded, coalescing into a small, glowing orb that hovered just above the desk. The familiar voice of Tokoyami emerged from the light, low and serious. By the sound of his voice, you straightened up, already feeling on edge from how weighty his tone was.
“It’s good to see you’re still safe,” Tokoyami began, trying to keep a casual tone. It wasn’t of much use when you could sense the underlying concern. He hid it terribly. “I wished to brief you on what you’ll be facing tomorrow, but something has come to my attention that cannot wait.”
You leaned forward, listening intently. Tokoyami was not one to be alarmed easily, so whatever he had to say was worth your full attention.
“There have been fluctuations in the magic within the catacombs,” he continued, his voice dropping slightly as if speaking of something he’d rather not give form to. “It’s been growing more unstable, as if the very essence of the place is reacting to something or someone. And, more troubling, there has been a significant increase in cultist activity. They seem drawn to the disturbance, or perhaps they’re the cause of it.”
Your breath hitched slightly, but you kept your expression calm. Cultists were always a danger, but the thought of them being involved in something like this… it was concerning. And though Tokoyami didn’t say it outright, you both knew there was more at stake for you than for the others. You were different, marked in ways that made you vulnerable to certain kinds of attention. And this type of attention was one you couldn’t afford to attract.
“Be careful,” His voice sounded more grave now as he continued to warn you, “The cultists have been known to be persistent and they are particularly interested in those with unusual abilities. Keep a low profile, and don’t draw unnecessary attention to yourself. The catacombs are treacherous enough without adding this risk.”
“I’ll keep that in mind,” you replied as your mind swirled with anxiety. Swallowing hard as you attempted to keep your voice steady. “Thank you for the warning. We’ll be cautious.”
There was a brief pause, and then Tokoyami’s tone softened slightly. “You’ve always been resourceful, and I trust you’ll navigate this with the same skill you’ve shown before. But remember, you don’t have to face it alone. The others may not know everything, but they’re still your allies.”
The light from the orb flickered slightly, signalling the end of the conversation. “I’ll meet you all tomorrow as planned,” Tokoyami added, his voice returning to its usual, calm tone. “We’ll discuss the history of the catacombs and the map then. For now, rest and prepare. You’ll need your strength.”
With that, the light faded, leaving the room in quiet darkness. You sat back in your chair, letting out a slow breath as you absorbed the weight of Tokoyami’s words. The catacombs were dangerous, that much you had expected. But this added layer of threat. Insane wackjobs that were going to be a royal pain if the group ran into them. The presence of cultists was a complication you couldn’t ignore. You could only pray that you wouldn’t run into them.
Still, you tried to ease your worries. Your hands sliding up your arm to trace your tattoos before pulling the sleeve of your cardigan over it. Get a grip. A deep exhale slipped past your lips as the grip on your sleeve tightened. You’ve faced challenges like these before, ones that tested your limits and forced you into difficult situations. This would be no different. And Tokoyami was right. You weren’t alone. You had your friends, even if they didn’t know the full truth. That was enough. It would have to be enough.
After a moment, you rose from the chair. You had your warning, and tomorrow would bring whatever it would bring. For now, all you could do was return to the group and enjoy the rest of the evening. At the same time, mentally prepare for the worst.
As you made your way back downstairs, the sounds of laughter and conversation grew louder, welcoming you back into the warmth of the inn. Putting a smile on as you rejoined your friends, slipping back into the easy banter and friendship that had become your refuge. No matter what tomorrow held, you had tonight.
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a/n: i finished my thesis so things should be a lot more consistent :)) @chocogoldie @devils-adversary @l0kisbitch @miikii0 @onlyisaa @sleepisfortheweakpooh @helena-way07 @enzstr @qardasngan @rednicotine @318474hello @d4rlinxs @sgtrjivc @ky0ruuu @naliarefira @pro-herokatsukispubies @kitsunetori @emotionallysalty @disappointmentonly @icarusthekid
notes: strangers to lovers, fantasy universe, bakusquad, slow burn, fluff, slight angst, draconic language and culture, other tags to be added ...
status: ongoing - this will be updated weekly, every Tuesday.
part list
pairing: barbarian!Katsuki Bakugou x fem!reader
chapter list
chapter 11
↬ excerpt:
You had carved out a place among them. The journey ahead was probably going to be long and dangerous, but being with them made it feel doable. It all felt a little less intimidating with them. And if you were going to suffer, at least it would be with them right?
chapter 12
↬ excerpt:
Bakugou’s brow arched at your words, trying to form some sort of image of this mysterious friend of yours. “He better not just be another pain in the ass.” He grumbled, adjusting the equipment on his back as he trudged on.
“You’re the pain in the ass Bakugou.”
chapter 13
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chapter 14
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chapter 15
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chapter 16
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chapter 17
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chapter 18
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chapter 19
↬ excerpt:
chapter 20
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comment if you want to be in the taglist for this series
pairing: barbarian! katsuki bakugou x reader (female)
summary: a bard approaches a lone barbarian in search for a story to tell. Who could have known that the barbarian end up being such a romantic tale.
notes: fantasy au, fluff, strangers to lovers, slow burn, bakusquad, barbarian bakugou, end of part one
word count: 8.5k
part list
part two: chapter list
a/n: i'm so glad to start part two :)) but i did struggle with this part justtt a little
“We’re finally out!”
Clear as day, Denki's loud cry echoed in the air. His voice rang through the air, spooking some birds that were resting on a tree. The birds didn’t sound too happy being scared off their resting spot. In return, they squawked at Denki brashly as they flew off, cursing at the blond in some avian language. You pushed aside the last of the bush, clearing the way as the group stepped out of Niniel’s Veil. Finally. The air here felt lighter. Fresh and relieving enough to wake your aching body. After what felt like ages, you were all out of the cursed forest. It’s been far too long since you’ve set foot on ground that you didn’t have to think twice about.
The group emerged into the open, and for the first time in a month, they could see the bright sky. They had gotten so accustomed to the canopies of trees that they’d almost forgotten how clear the sky could be. Niniel’s Veil had disappeared behind you, replaced by the open plains and worn out dirt paths. Actual paths and open fields? The mere sight of it was heavenly. Each of you felt relief in your bones after spending so long navigating those twisted trees.
“Can’t believe we made it,” Kirishima yawned mid-stretch. He let out a low groan, he could finally relax. The redhead let out another loud groan as he stretched, the sharp crack of his back sounding almost blissful. “Almost two months... feels like we’ve been in there forever.”
“Yeah, it felt like we were never getting out,” Mina commented, adjusting the leather strap of her shoulder bag. “That place seriously messed with my head.”
Denki nodded, eyeing the land as though the fields themselves were priceless treasure. You didn’t blame him, you could understand the sentiment. “Thank the gods… we’re finally free.” He groaned, letting out a rather dramatic heavy sigh.
“It was a close call a few times,” you admitted, rolling your shoulders back trying to ease the uncomfortable stiffness sitting on your spine. Your back was killing you, pulsing with an ache. If you could, you’d choose to collapse right here on the ground. However, knowing a certain barbarian, you would consequently get yelled at. Frankly, you did not have the energy for that.
While the journey was gruelling you never did lose the confidence in getting out of the ancient woods, it was only that you didn’t expect to be in there for that long. Your sights fell onto the barbarian who was already looking onwards for the next adventure. As if he had the energy or gold to continue on. That fool needs rest, whether he likes it or not. The smallest of smiles drifted upon your lips before you stepped up beside him. “But we got what we came for.”
“There wasn’t a chance we’d leave without it,” Bakugou muttered under his breath, his tone sharp as always. He was already thinking of the next destination. “Third artefact down. One step closer to the finish line.”
“Could’ve done without the Veil’s tricks, though,” Sero said, his voice carrying the exhaustion of the journey. “That place did not want us to leave.”
Bakugou scoffed, already prepared to get going. The stubborn ox of a man already trudging onwards on the dirt path. “Too bad for it. It was never going to keep me there.”
Denki chuckled, still basking in the victory of escaping. “Y’know, we’re practically legends now,” he declared, pausing just long enough to let the weight of the title hang in the air. With a smug lift of his brow, he gave Kirishima a playful nudge as they walked. “We survived Niniel’s Veil and lived to tell the tale. That’s practically unheard of.”
You’re amused at Denki’s enthusiasm. Was he going to use that fact to charm every tavern girl now? A brand new, glowing achievement to use to impress the ladies? You shook your head at the mere thought. Tilting your head back, you let your eyes follow the drift of clouds across the endless blue, breathing in deeply as fatigue rattled your bones. “I could use a break.” was all you could really say.
“It would be nice to be somewhere that isn’t actively trying to kill us.” Sero agreed with a tired smile stretched on his face.
For now, you had earned a moment of peace. Now only open roads lay ahead. A beat of silence passes before you unfurl your trusted map. Tracing the familiar lines and checking for any surrounding towns. Lips parted, muttering to yourself as you scanned the parchment. The area was sparsely dotted with settlements, but you searched for the closest one. One place stood out to you. Not far at all and decently sized. Perhaps not a town, closer to a village really. It was better than nothing.
Rolling up your map, you spoke up, “We should head to the town of Driffin, it’s only ten miles away.” Your gaze swept over the group before settling on Bakugou, giving a firm look. Emphasising the next words for him. “We can rest there, regroup, and figure out our next move.”
Bakugou gave a grunt of agreement, not in the mood to speak. He was tired, whether he wanted to admit it or not. “Good. We need supplies, too. We’re running low.” Short, clipped responses slipping past his grumbling, already striding ahead.
“I could definitely use an actual bed,” Kirishima’s voice dragged with fatigue. He let out another loud groan as he cracked his neck. “And maybe a hot meal that isn’t dried rations for a change.”
Mina’s eyes lit up at the sound of actual food. Her stomach grumbled at the mere idea. “Yes! A real meal sounds like heaven right now.”
The group started to move with a cheer, already discussing what to do once they reach the town. The lingering tension of the Veil was fading as the thought of Driffin became the next goal. A place with warm food, soft beds, and safety. You led the way, your mind already thinking of falling into some soft sheets. Driffin was a small town, but it would offer the rest you all desperately needed. There was a collective sense of relief, knowing that for the first time in weeks, they were heading toward somewhere safe. Even if it was just for a brief rest. As they walked, the conversation naturally shifted toward the newest addition to the team: you.
Small jokes, murmured reassurances, and the occasional glance in your direction. It was clear that they were glad you’d decided to stick around, to join them on this unpredictable, wild ride. And you were glad to stay as well. These weren’t just people you’d agreed to help anymore. Along the bumpy ride, they’d become friends. It had been a long time since you’d truly connected with anyone. You wanted to stay and see where the journey would take everyone. And, if you were honest with yourself, part of that pull came from curiosity. Bakugou still had artefacts left to claim, and you wanted to see him finish his quest. To be there when it all came together. Kirishima was the first to voice his approval.
“I’m glad you decided to stay. We need people like you.” A grin stretched across Kirishima’s face as he glanced back at you. One by one, the others added to the warm conversation.
“Yeah, no complaints from me,” Denki added, flashing you a thumbs-up. “Plus, she makes things more interesting. The more, the merrier, right?”
Mina’s grin widened as she hugged you from behind. Her looped arms loose as the two of you walked. A light giggle bubbled from the both of you. “Definitely. It’s been fun having you around. You’re good with magic and maps, but you also get the team. That’s not always easy to find,” Mina chimed in with a wink. “More than that though, you’re also not half bad at keeping Bakugou in check.”
You couldn’t help but smirk at that, though Bakugou who was a little ahead, scoffed in response. You couldn’t see it but you knew he had that iconic scowl on him. “Don’t start.” he muttered, not wanting to entertain this conversation in the slightest.
Sero leaned in to whisper into the group, keeping his volume down so a certain blond wouldn’t hear his teasing. “He says that now, but we all know he’s just glad someone else can keep up with his attitude.”
Denki laughed, elbowing Sero in agreement. “Right? I was starting to think he was gonna snap one of our necks eventually. But now he’s got someone else to argue with.”
Sero leaned in a little closer, lowering his voice even more. A sly smirk on his lips as he glanced at Bakugou and you. "Honestly, I think he’s happy someone can argue with him."
Denki sniggered, his hand clasping over his mouth to muffle the sound. Though you could see his goofish grin peeking through. "I thought we were gonna be stuck getting yelled at for the rest of the trip. You’ve given him a new target, and we all appreciate it."
You shook your head at their words. “Glad I could take the heat off you guys, I guess.”
Ahead of you, Bakugou’s voice cut through, his ears clearly catching bits of the conversation. “I can hear you idiots,” he growled, barking back at the two to get them to shut it. “I do not need anyone keeping up with my attitude.”
At his words, Sero raised an eyebrow, glancing at you with a cheeky grin. Thumb jutted out, pointing at the back of the barbarian. “See? He’s already getting defensive.”
Bakugou shot him a glare but didn’t bother to respond, quickening his pace slightly as if to distance himself from the banter. You couldn’t help but chuckle at the exchange, feeling more like you’re a part of this group. It’s a warm sensation that fills your chest as you walk with them, feeling accepted and belonging.
Mina leaned into your ear, her voice lower. “He’ll never admit it, but having you around has definitely made things better.”
"Well, someone’s got to keep him in check, right?" You laughed, already able to feel the heat radiating from the blond barbarian ahead.
For someone who’s been listening all along, Bakugou is much quieter than usual. You pinned it on him being exhausted. He didn’t turn around to look at your smug faces, grumbling with a huff. “..As if you could keep me in check.” the grouch muttered under his breath, quickening his pace to get ahead.
As the group’s chatter continued, you stayed silent. You had come into this team a stranger, but now you were all companions. You had carved out a place among them. The journey ahead was probably going to be long and dangerous, but being with them made it feel doable. It all felt a little less intimidating with them. And if you were going to suffer, at least it would be with them right? As the road stretched out before you, the warmth of Mina’s embrace and the shared laughter from Denki and Sero made you feel closer. You were becoming part of their story.
Before you knew it, the town welcomed you with warmth and simplicity. Cobbled streets and small, thatched-roof cottages giving off a mellow vibe. It wasn’t large, perhaps the size of a village, but it had everything you all needed. A place to rest and recover after the lengthy, treacherous trek through Niniel’s Veil. The sound of chatter from the marketplace filled the streets as you made your way toward the local inn. The one that Denki mentioned had the best honey cakes. Lanterns hung from doorways, casting a soft glow on the cobblestone streets as the group made its way toward the inn.
The inn itself was cozy, a rustic building with worn wooden beams and the comforting smell of hearth fire and honey drifting from within. The group practically swarmed inside, eager for a break from the wilds. Two rooms were secured, but as everyone settled in, Bakugou raised a point. He opened the drawstring coin bag with a low drag, the contents inside being rather sparse.
“We need more coin,” he said, leaning against the doorframe of the inn's common room. His hand bounced the light coin bag, gripping it tight as he continued to make his point. “We’ve still got some left from the last job, but we’d better replenish it before we head out again.”
Kirishima peered into the coin purse, squinting as he eyed the lacking gold. His expression scrunched up at the grim amount. “Yeah, you’re right. We burned through a lot of supplies back in the Veil. If we want to stock up properly, we’ll need more gold.”
Mina twirled a strand of her hair, looking at the bulletin board that hung on the wall. She plucked one of the flyers, reading the description. “We could always pick up a few odd jobs while we’re here. Small towns like this always need help with something, right?”
Denki, who was leaning against the wall, grinned and stepped over to snatch the flyer Mina was holding. It earned a light smack from the tiefling but he was unfazed. “Sounds good to me. Some work that doesn’t involve fighting and running from monsters.”
Sero stepped next to Denki, leaning in to get a read of the job listing. “We could use the extra coin. Who knows what kind of expensive supplies we’ll need for the next leg of the journey?”
You considered the idea, going up to the board and selecting a few job offers that paid decently. “We could split up, cover more ground that way.” As you spoke, you were already handing out a few listings to everyone.
Bakugou skimmed through the job listing, grunting in response. “As long as we don’t waste too much time, I’m in. We can split up, get things done quicker. No point hanging around here longer than we need to.”
Sero looked over at you. “You think we could ask the innkeeper or locals? They probably know what needs doing around here.”
“Definitely,” you replied, glancing toward the front of the inn where the innkeeper was busy tending to a customer. “Small towns like this always have something going on. I’ll ask around.”
Kirishima grinned, getting pumped with renewed energy. How did he always get so energised? “Alright! Let’s do this, then. Some work, some rest, and we’ll be ready for whatever comes next.”
Denki groaned, pushing himself off the wall and letting out a rather theatrical groan. “Just as long as I’m not stuck hauling heavy hay around. My back’s still killing me from the Veil.”
“Don’t worry, Denki. You can get the easy jobs, as usual.” Mina laughed, nudging him playfully.
Bakugou rolled his eyes at Denki’s whining. “If you can’t handle it, just say so. We’ll leave the hard stuff to the rest of us.”
“I can handle it! I’m just saying... a little break wouldn’t hurt.” Denki’s ego bristled at his friend’s reactions. So he defended himself, straightening up as he picked out one of the listings.
The group began to disperse, spirits lifted by the idea of a few days of lighter tasks and the promise of proper beds and warm meals. As you headed toward the innkeeper, you felt the weight of the journey finally begin to ease— no high-stakes battles or cursed forests, just a few odd jobs in a peaceful town. Everyone split off in smaller groups, hoping to get these jobs done quickly. Working together on simple mundane tasks.
Right?
A few, easy, peaceful odd jobs.
“How are you this bad at catching chickens?!” you yelled, exasperation dripping from your voice as you swatted a flurry of feathers from your face. This was far from being easy or peaceful.
Your unfortunate partner for this task, Kirishima, was in the middle of tripping over a fence, trying to grab a particularly nimble hen. “I’m trying! These little guys are faster than they look!” he huffed, scrambling to his feet with a huff. Despite how good he was at combat, chasing chickens seemed to be his undoing.
“Maybe try not scaring them off like you’re a charging brute?” you snapped, trying to corner a few chickens that had scattered at Kirishima’s last attempt. Your eyes followed the frantic blur of feathers, and you lunged, managing to catch one by the legs. Victory surged through you, but as soon as you had it in hand, another three took off in the opposite direction. This was going to be a long afternoon.
Kirishima rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. He looked lost and guilty for being this bad. “Sorry! I don’t think chicken catching is my strong suit.”
“No kidding,” you muttered, holding the squirming chicken close to your chest as you tried to strategize. Squinting at the chickens that scrambled about. "At this rate, we'll be here until next week."
Just then, Denki wandered up, casually leaning on the fence, clearly enjoying the spectacle. “You two look like you’re having a blast,” he called out with a punchable smug smirk plastered on his face. “Need some help or should I keep watching?”
“Oh please, by all means, watch while we do all the work,” you replied sarcastically, rolling your eyes as another chicken darted past Kirishima’s feet, completely unbothered by him. Not even fazed when Kirishima tried to swoop in to catch it. He was seriously bad at this.
Kirishima shot Denki a look, rising up with his hands on his hips. “Come on, man, either help or— oh!” He cut himself off as another chicken darted between his legs, causing him to spin and nearly lose his balance again.
Denki laughed, hopping over the fence in one smooth motion. “Alright, alright, I’ll save you two. Honestly, how hard could it be?”
…
Denki’s confidence lasted for all of ten seconds before the chickens, seemingly sensing his cockiness, scattered even faster. He dove for one but missed spectacularly, landing face-first in the dirt. Well, that went about as well as you thought. You weren’t sure why Denki was so confident but it did not last.
"Nice save, Denki," you said dryly, holding back a laugh as he pushed himself up, spitting out a bit of dust. A smidge of dirt still on his cheek.
“They’re slippery!” he protested, brushing dirt off his clothes. "I thought this would be easy."
“Yeah, no kidding,” you muttered. “We’ve been chasing them around like headless chickens out here.”
Just then, Bakugou’s unmistakable voice barked from the distance, louder than necessary. His voice alone was enough for you to give up and simply collapse. Not this meathead. “What the hell are you all doing?! They’re chickens, not enemies! Get it together!”
You groaned. Another one to join this chicken party. “Great, now he’s watching.”
Bakugou approached, arms crossed and that familiar irritating look on his face. The one where he was so sure he could do better. The one that always has you fighting to wipe it off him. “You catch ‘em by herding them together, not running around like idiots.”
“Oh, now you show up with the advice,” you shot back, glaring at him. Frankly annoyed at both the chickens and the introduction of Bakugou. And honestly, the overwhelming sensation of the heat, the flutter of feathers and the sticky sensation of sweat. What you would give for rest. “Why don’t you come down here and help, then?”
Bakugou smirked, ready to prove him right and you wrong. He was enjoying the chaos. Could’ve stayed and watched you idiots run around like the same chickens that were meant to be captured. But he stepped forward nonetheless, going over the fence. Not because he’s a saint. Because he wants to rub it in your face. “Fine. Watch and learn.”
In one swift motion, Bakugou lunged and snatched a chicken by the wings, holding it up victoriously. A cocky, smug smirk aimed directly at you. “See? Not that hard.” Your eye twitched. Not that hard. Great! So, how about fifteen more?
You wanted to argue as usual but Kirishima and Denki exchanged a look with you. And then you all shrugged. At least with Bakugou’s help, maybe you wouldn’t be chasing chickens all day. With Bakugou herding the flock, things went a little smoother. Though there were still a few close calls, like Denki tripping over his own feet and you nearly losing your grip on a particularly feisty hen. By the end of it, the group was covered in dirt and feathers, but the runaway chickens were corralled back into their pen.
Panting, you wiped sweat from your forehead. “I never want to see another chicken again.”
Kirishima laughed, dusting himself off. Relieved that he no longer needed to run around chasing those birds. “Who knew they could be so tough to catch?”
Denki stretched, wincing from his earlier fall. Eyeing the chickens that are now in their coop. “I could eat them right about now.”
“Could’ve been faster.” Bakugou huffed. Generic response expected from him.
“Yeah, yeah,” you muttered, exhausted at having to hear his grating voice after all that chicken catching. “Next time, we’ll leave all the chickens to you.”
Bakugou sneered. “You are all useless.”
The panting from all the running, the scratches on your arms, and the feathers sticking to your clothes— everything seemed worth it when the farmer handed you the bag of coins. Finally. Money. Gold. You let out a breathless chuckle as you tucked the pouch into your pocket, wiping the sweat from your forehead with the back of your hand. "All that for chickens," you muttered to yourself, still feeling the adrenaline buzzing through your veins.
As you caught your breath, a thought crossed your mind. Right. How are Mina and Sero doing?
It didn’t take long to spot Mina, darting across the square with a large box precariously balanced in her arms. She caught sight of you and, despite her loaded hands, gave a quick wave. "Hey!" she called out, her voice cheerful even in the midst of her task. "Finished wrangling chickens?"
“Barely,” you called back, chuckling. You jogged over to her, still feeling the exhaustion from the chicken job. "What’s all this?"
"Deliveries!" she replied with a grin, adjusting her grip on the box. Ensuring it doesn’t slip her fingertips. "The local shopkeeper needed help, so I’m running stuff around town. Sero’s out gathering ingredients for the local alchemist. We figured we might as well get some extra work done while we’re here. You wanna lend a hand?”
You raised an eyebrow, glancing at the box she was struggling with. “Sure, why not? Need any help with that?”
"You read my mind. This thing's heavier than it looks." Mina laughed, eagerly handing the box over to you. Shifting it carefully into your arms.
You took the box from her, realising she wasn’t exaggerating. You let out a surprised grunt at the weight. “What’s in here? Rocks?”
"Close enough," she replied, wiping a bit of sweat from her brow. "It’s herbs, oils, and some other stuff the apothecary ordered. Apparently, they don’t do light packages.”
As you both made your way through town, Mina filled you in on Sero’s task. "Sero’s out by the woods collecting rare plants for some fancy potions. He could probably use a hand if you’re up for it. He's been out there for a while now.”
You nodded as you shifted the box in your arms. "Gathering plants sounds nice actually. I’ll help him out after we drop this off."
Mina grinned. "Great! He’s just outside of town, near that big oak tree. You know the one. I’ll catch up with you guys once I’m done with these deliveries."
Together, you dropped off the box at the apothecary, whose delighted smile made the heavy lifting feel a bit more worthwhile. After helping Mina with the deliveries to the apothecary, the two of you headed toward the bakery, where another delivery was waiting. You figured you’d help her with another run when you saw the large stack of boxes waiting at the bakery’s front. Maybe Sero would be fine on his own. But just as you were about to lift one, you both ran into Denki, Kirishima, and Bakugou coming down the street.
Kirishima raised an eyebrow, noticing the boxes Mina was struggling with. “What’s Mina doing with all those deliveries?”
Mina skidded to a stop in front of them, the box wobbling dangerously in her arms before she regained control. “Oh, I took on some delivery jobs for the local shops! This box is for the baker down the street, but I’ve got a few more to run around town.” She set the box down for a moment, catching her breath. “Honestly, could use some help with the rest. Sero’s out gathering ingredients for the alchemist, and it’s a lot more running around than I thought.”
Denki, still catching his breath from the chicken fiasco, groaned. “More running? I’m not sure I’ve got it in me. I barely survived the chickens!”
Mina laughed, giving Denki a playful shove. “Come on, it’s easy work compared to what we just did. No angry chickens involved. Plus, the baker promised free pastries if we help out.”
Kirishima perked up at the mention of baked goods, like a dog hearing the shake of the treat jar. “Alright, I’m in! Could use a good snack after all that running.” He was already stretching his legs to get ready for this arduous task of delivering boxes around.
Bakugou glanced at the pile of boxes with a sigh. He too was tired, even if he didn’t want to admit it. “Fine, let’s get this over with. But I’m not wasting all day on this.”
With them helping Mina, you slipped away. Mina had more than enough help. You headed toward the edge of town where Sero was gathering ingredients. As you walked, you couldn’t help but take a moment to enjoy this. Simple small-town work, as mundane as it seemed, was a nice change of pace from the life-threatening chaos of your usual adventures. It was good to have these moments— easy, everyday jobs that reminded you what normalcy felt like. When you reached the oak tree, you spotted Sero crouched near a patch of wildflowers, carefully inspecting the plants. "Need some help?" you called out.
Sero glanced up, a grin spreading across his face. "Hey! Perfect timing. I could use an extra set of eyes. This alchemist is picky. Only wants the best quality stuff, and I think I’m going cross-eyed from staring at plants."
You chuckled, joining him at the patch. Kneeling down on the soft ground as you squinted at the fauna. “No problem. Let’s get this done, and maybe we’ll actually have some time to relax today.”
"As long as the alchemist doesn’t send us back out here for more." Sero said with a dry laugh, already looking back at the patch of greenery.
With the two of you working together, the task felt easier, and the sun started to dip lower in the sky. Hues of orange bathed the both of you crouched under the oak tree. You were grateful for the simplicity of the day’s work, even if it had involved quick chickens, heavy deliveries, and now, herbs. As you and Sero crouched among the rows of herbs, the earthy scent of freshly turned soil filling the air, you glanced over at him. His eyes sharply focused on the plants, fingers deftly plucking the right leaves. You watched him for a moment before deciding to speak.
“Sero, what do you think of the journey so far?” you asked as you reached for another plant. You didn’t know him all that well, and this felt like a good moment to change that.
Sero paused for a second, a thoughtful expression crossing his face as he tucked the herbs into the collection bag. "It’s been... intense," he admitted, a small grin tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Definitely not what I expected. But it’s been good. You know, three artefacts in and we’re still standing, so I’d call that a win."
“You’ve been here longer than I have. Any regrets?” You smiled as you tucked a few more herbs into the collection bag.
He shook his head, reflecting back on this wild journey, his grin widening. "Nah, no regrets. It’s been crazy, but I’m close with everyone now. You get used to the chaos, and besides, it’s not every day you get to hunt down ancient artefacts. Keeps life interesting."
“Used to all the chaos?” You chuckled, shaking your head as you plucked a few leaves from the plant in front of you. Getting used to all this chaos would make it hard to go back to normal life.
He shrugged but his next words were genuine. “Chaos, sure. But it’s not just the danger and the running around. It’s the group. Being around you guys makes it easier. Even when things go sideways, I know we’ll figure it out.”
You think back to the memories in Niniel’s Veil. The trek, the caves and the heart of the veil. “Yeah, we’ve definitely been through a lot already, but it’s just getting started.”
Sero hummed thoughtfully, tucking a few more herbs into the bag pinned by his belt. “You’re fitting in pretty quick, though. It’s not easy to jump into the middle of something like this, but you’ve handled it well.” He paused for a moment, then added, “It helps that everyone’s pretty tight. Makes the whole journey feel less like a job and more like an adventure.”
“Definitely feels like an adventure,” you agreed. “I mean, chasing down artefacts, dodging traps, dealing with whatever’s lurking about— it’s not exactly boring.”
“No, never boring. Though I’ve gotta say, after doing this twice before, the stakes keep getting higher.” Sero leaned back on his heels, looking at you with a curious expression. “What about you? How’s it been so far, joining us in the middle of all this?”
You hesitated for a moment, thinking about how the group had quickly become friends to you. It surprised you sometimes, how easily you’d slipped into their rhythm. You hadn’t expected to grow so attached, but here you were, caring more than you thought you would. “Honestly? It’s been... better than I expected. I didn’t know what to think at first… jumping into a group that already had history. But everyone’s been great. And, yeah, the journey can get intense, but it’s been worth it. I’m starting to see why you guys stick together.”
Sero listened to your answer, understanding what you meant. “Yeah, they’re good people. Denki especially, though I’d never say that to his face,” he added with a wink. “He’s like a brother, you know? Always gets himself into trouble, but he’s the first to crack a joke when things get rough.”
You smiled, recalling Denki’s endless humour and energy, even when the odds were against you. “I can see that. He’s good for morale.”
Sero glanced up as if he could hear Denki from across town. “Good for getting on your nerves, too, but I wouldn’t trade him for anything.”
The two of you continued picking the herbs in a comfortable silence for a few minutes before Sero spoke again, his tone more thoughtful. “You know, it’s weird... when I joined this group, I didn’t think I’d stick around this long. I figured I’d help out and then move on. But then the first artefact hunt happened, and by the second one... I don’t know, I guess I just couldn’t leave.”
You looked over at him, curious. “What made you stay?”
He considered that for a moment, his eyes softening. “I think it’s the same reason you’re here now. It’s the people. We might be chasing artefacts and running into danger every other day, but at the end of it, there’s always someone watching your back. That’s not easy to find.”
You smiled, feeling the truth in his words. “Yeah, I get that. It’s not just about the journey, it’s who you’re with.”
Sero chuckled, getting to his feet as he stuffed the last of the herbs into his bag. “Exactly. Plus, someone’s gotta make sure Denki doesn’t step on Bakugou’s toes.”
You laughed, rising to stand beside him. “Guess that’s a full-time job.”
“More than you know,” he grinned, giving you a friendly nudge with his elbow.
As the both of you plucked and gathered herbs for the apothecary, Sero slowly opened up to you. He and Denki, he explained, used to serve as knights in the kingdom of Bruwen— some frigid land up north. The work had its merits, but neither of them ever truly fit into the rigid discipline and formality the post demanded. There were countless times where the both of them got in trouble for their tomfoolery. How they didn’t get expelled sooner, Sero hadn’t had the faintest clue. So they left. Simply because the road beyond the castle walls called to them. They became a pair of wandering adventurers, drifting from one group to the next, taking whatever jobs that paid.
Then came the fateful meeting. How did they come into the dragonborn prince? Somewhere in the middle of nowhere, they quite literally stumbled into Bakugou and Kirishima. Sero chuckled at the memory: Denki had managed to bump into Bakugou, somehow triggering a trap that sealed them all inside. They had bickered every step of the way as they begrudgingly worked together to escape… yet, for reasons none of them could quite explain, it stuck. The four of them just stayed together. And not long after, Mina joined. They’d met her in a bustling little town looking for short work. But, and, as Sero put it, ‘things just clicked.’ From there, they’ve been travelling together.
The conversation ended as the both of you finished up. Sero rose up, brushing the dirt off his hands. “Yeah and well, you’re stuck with us now. Come on, let’s finish up here and meet the others. I’m sure Denki’s found some way to get himself in trouble by now.”
You laughed as you stood up, chucking the rest of the herbs into the bag. “Yeah, knowing Denki, you’re probably right.”
Sero wasn’t exactly wrong. Denki wasn’t an idiot most of the time— but he definitely had his moments, especially when it came to pissing Bakugou off. A special talent of his. The two of you returned with the bag of herbs. The apothecary was definitely strict, taking her time carefully inspecting them. Eventually, the apothecary looked satisfied, choosing to play the both of you handsomely for the meticulous care and effort. You and Sero returned to the inn, pockets full of coins from your errands, only to be greeted by the sight of Denki sprinting around the entrance, with Bakugou hot on his heels.
You groaned, already exhausted just watching them. While it was amusing, you also didn’t want any more problems. "What now?" you muttered under your breath, dreading the answer.
Sero shrugged at you, expecting something like this to happen. “Place your bets. I’m guessing it involves Denki saying something stupid.” Only Denki could get into trouble like this.
As you and Sero approached the inn, you spotted Mina and Kirishima lounging near the entrance, casually observing the chaos unfolding in front of them. Both of them wore matching grins, clearly entertained by the spectacle of Denki running for his life from an enraged Bakugou. You almost felt bad for Denki from how he was sprinting from the barbarian.
Amongst the both of them, Kirishima leaned toward Mina. His grin wide, holding back a laugh as he watched Denki barely dodge Bakugou. “Ten gold on Denki lasting five more minutes before Bakugou catches him.”
Mina snickered at both the bet and the entertainment in front of her. Kirishima had way too much faith in Denki for such a bet. “Oh, please. Five minutes? Bakugou’s about to explode. Denki’s got maybe a minute before he’s toast.”
They both laughed, barely containing their amusement as Bakugou finally managed to grab Denki by the back of his shirt. Even lesser than a minute. Mina grinned and nudged Kirishima to pay up. “Told you. He’s tough, but not that tough.” The dragonborn snickered as he tossed ten gold into her open palm.
Your eyes tracked Denki and Bakugou as the scene continued to unfold in front of you. Denki, with pure luck and desperation, scrambled out of Bakugou’s grasp. The sound of the collar slipping through Bakugou’s grip. Denki immediately took off, sprinting down the inn's courtyard. A nasty roar from Bakugou echoed through the air, his fists clenched in frustration as he stormed after him, his patience practically non-existent.
Denki darted around a corner of crates, laughing nervously as he stammered to reason with Bakugou. “Come on, Bakugou! I didn’t mean for it to turn out this way!”
Bakugou boomed explosively, his anger bursting through his voice. “I’m gonna kill you!”
Poor Denki. You shook your head as you watched the spectacle. Unsure of how to even step in or if you even wanted to. “Never a quiet day, huh?” you muttered to yourself, a dry laugh slipping past your lips.
Sero chuckled as well, watching Denki try to loop around a stack of crates. His best friend still pleading for his life. “Not with those two around.
You both stepped closer to the commotion, Denki’s panicked voice being much clearer now. As if the both weren’t loud enough. “I didn’t mean it like that, Bakugou! It was just a compliment! Technically!”
"Yeah, right, you idiot!" Bakugou snarled, his eyes lit ablaze with fury. He eyed Denki, trying to snatch him up. “I’ve been cleaning up your mess for the last hour because you couldn’t keep your mouth shut!”
Sero raised an eyebrow. Hands on his hips as he asked for more details. “What mess exactly?”
Denki, still running in circles to avoid Bakugou’s wrath, risked a glance in your direction. “Okay, so it was just a little misunderstanding—” Oh— and there goes Denki. He ducked at the last minute and scampered off.
“He started a damn tavern brawl!” Bakugou cut him off, lunging again, though Denki just barely dodged. Was Bakugou just sluggish tonight or was Denki just insanely lucky?
You sighed, already feeling the headache forming. Did they get kicked out of the inn? Were they going to sleep on the streets tonight? “What did you say this time, Denki?”
Denki skidded to a stop near you, hands on his knees, catching his breath. “I– I was just trying to compliment this woman in the tavern, you know? I said she had nice... biceps, or something like that, and—”
“And it turns out she’s the wife of one of the biggest and drunkest guys in the place,” Bakugou growled, finally catching up and grabbing Denki by the back of his shirt again. This time gripping it tight so Denki doesn’t slip away like before. “Which led to everyone throwing punches!”
Denki winced as Bakugou hauled him up, his feet barely touching the ground. “Hey, how was I supposed to know she was married? It was a harmless compliment! People need to be more secure in their relationships.” Amidst the ruckus, Denki was right about that.
Sero snorted at the retelling of the story. Even after knowing Denki for so long, sometimes he couldn’t believe the shit his friend gets into. “So, let me get this straight. With one badly worded compliment and you managed to turn the entire tavern into a brawl?”
Denki flashed a sheepish grin, clearly still feeling the high of the adrenaline. “Yeah, I guess it escalated. But! I think I won that first punch before Bakugou jumped in. Right, man?”
Bakugou’s eyes narrowed as he yanked Denki back, yelling at the troublemaker in his hands. “You didn’t win anything! You hid behind me while I dealt with half the room!”
You massaged your temples, trying to process the absurdity of it all. “And now you’re running around like a couple of kids while the tavern’s recovering from this mess?”
Denki shot you a pleading look. As if his puppy eyes could win his case. “It wasn’t that bad. And hey, we’re not banned... yet.”
Bakugou’s grip tightened, and you could practically see the murderous intent in his eyes. “You’re lucky I didn’t leave you behind in that mess, you damn idiot.”
You couldn’t help but laugh, shaking your head. Remembering Sero’s words about his best friend. Not an idiot most of the time. For all this trouble, it did lighten your mood. Sure you all had to worry about being banned but this was hilarious. “Well, at least it’s never boring with him around.”
Denki, still caught in Bakugou’s grasp, laughed nervously. “See? I keep things interesting! Just... you know, maybe you can let me down now, Bakugou?”
Bakugou growled but finally dropped Denki, who stumbled before straightening up and brushing himself off. “Next time do us all a favour and shut the fuck up.”
Even after getting rattled by Bakugou, Denki had the energy to give a mock salute. Rather daring since Bakugou could still grab ahold of him. “Aye sir. Message received, loud and clear.”
You sighed, shaking your head, ushering him to get into the inn. “Come on, let’s get inside before Bakugou changes his mind and decides to punt you into the ground.”
As you four walked up to inn’s entrance where Mina and Kirishima were, the both of them lit up. The pink skinned fighter spoke up first, waving her arm at you. “What took you guys so long? You missed the best part! Denki started a full-on tavern brawl over a compliment.”
“We heard,” Sero replied, a grin tugging at the corner of his mouth. Peeking at his best friend, looping an arm around his shoulder as they walked together. “Seems like Denki’s flirting skills are as sharp as ever.”
Kirishima chuckled, watching as Bakugou stormed into the inn. Practically able to see the steam seething off his friend. “Honestly, I thought Bakugou was going to finish what the tavern didn’t.”
“Bakugou might still, if Denki opens his mouth again,” you muttered, shooting a look at the fuming barbarian and the sheepish idiot. You held the door of the inn open as each member walked in. You couldn’t help but ask the long-time spectators of the event. “How bad was it?”
Mina leaned in, eyes twinkling as she replayed the moments in her head. “Oh, it was glorious. Denki tried to compliment some woman, and the next thing you know, her husband’s swinging fists. The whole place went down like dominoes, and of course, Bakugou had to step in and handle it.”
Kirishima joined in, laughing along at the memory. His grin widening as he spoke through a chortle. “Yeah, Bakugou was not happy, but I gotta give Denki credit— he managed to duck out just in time. The guy’s got reflexes.”
Denki, overhearing the conversation as he dusted himself off, raised his hands in mock surrender. Once again, trying to defend himself. “Come on, you guys. I’m not that bad! I was just trying to make conversation.”
Bakugou cut it short with a glowering glare, stepping closer to him. His steps are heavy and his bark is biting. “Make conversation again, and I’ll make sure you’re the one swinging next time.” It quickly shut Denki up, watching him shrink down with a pitiful look.
As the group made their way inside, you couldn’t help but chuckle. Chaos seemed to follow Denki wherever he went, but at least there was never a dull moment. With the group finally reunited in one piece, you all made your way back into the inn, ready to (hopefully) end the day without any more disturbances. The innkeeper was agitated but he wasn’t going to ban anyone. All he wanted was for the group to scram at first light which was not a problem. The group made their way toward the stairs, their tired footsteps heavy from the day’s odd jobs. Everyone was eager to crash into their beds and get some much-needed rest. You followed along, but just as Bakugou began to ascend the stairs, you reached out and lightly tugged on his arm.
“Bakugou, wait,” you called out. There was one more thing you had to do before you turned in for the night. It most definitely couldn’t wait for the morning. He stopped mid-step, glancing back at you with an exhausted, grumpy expression. The others continued up without a second thought, too fatigued to notice the exchange.
“What? I’m not in the mood.” Bakugou narrowed his eyes on you, his voice roughened with the earlier frustrations. He was tired too. So were you. That’s why you were intent on keeping this short.
“We need to talk. About the next destination,” you said, motioning toward the common space of the inn. You knew that he would agree if it was about his quest. “Can we sit down for a minute?”
He looked like he might protest for a second, but then he sighed, realising this was important. Plus, you weren’t going to let it go. And even though all he wanted to do was to sink into a mattress. This was a needed conversation. “Fine,” he muttered, following you down the stairs and into the dimly lit common area. You both settled at a table near the fireplace, the crackling of the flames filling the silence between you. Bakugou leaned back in his chair, arms crossed over his chest. He got comfortable in the creaky wooden chair, a grunt leaving his lips.
“So, what is it?” he asked, wanting to get this over and done with.
You rested your arms on the table, your demeanour shifting to being a bit more serious. “I want to know what the next riddle is for the next artefact. We need to be ready, and I need to understand what we’re walking into.”
Bakugou shifted in his seat, clearly considering whether to share the details now or brush it off until later. But after a moment, he sighed and pulled a folded piece of parchment from his pants. “The riddle’s a pain in the ass, like the others,” he mumbled, unfolding it for you. “Listen to this.” He tossed it onto the table between you, the edges frayed from being handled too many times.
Bakugou showed you the latest riddle that pointed to the next location of the artefact. Whoever had hidden these relics across the continent had been considerate enough to leave riddles for each one. A twisted sense of generosity, if you had to guess. How kind of them to make this a scavenger hunt, you thought dryly.
Seek the tomb where spirits weep,
Beneath the city,
where shadows dwell,
In halls where silence casts its spell,
A king's dark past and secrets lie,
Where whispers of the restless sigh.
In crypts where ancient secrets sleep,
Solve the tales of Edresa's yore,
Each riddle etched on walls of lore.
You couldn’t help but feel that this wasn’t just another clue. It was a warning, etched into the lines of the riddle, daring anyone who sought the artefact to tread carefully. A chill slithered down your spine, prickling your skin. Edresa’s catacombs? Rather grim, if anyone asked you. Edresa was a prosperous city, full of life and trade, with bustling marketplaces that made it the heart of the region. But beneath all that vibrancy lay a shadowy secret, a network of ancient catacombs that few dared to speak of. To be honest, you hadn’t heard much about the labyrinthine tunnels beneath the city, but you knew someone who did.
“Edresa, huh…” you muttered softly to yourself, the name stirring memories of a dear friend who resided there. If the riddle pointed to Edresa, it might not be as impossible as it seemed. He could help you. He always had before.
Bakugou’s gaze sharpened when he noticed the shift in your expression. “You know the place?”
You nodded, but quickly waved it off. “Yeah, I know it,” you said, keeping your voice neutral. Not wanting to worry him this late. “But don’t worry about it right now. I know what to do. Get some rest. We’ll talk more in the morning.”
Bakugou narrowed his eyes at you, clearly suspicious. Not that his trust was faltering but he much rather knew what you were thinking. He wasn’t one to walk into something without knowing all he could. And he wasn’t going to have you withhold information from him. “If you’ve got a plan, spill it. If there’s something you’re not saying—.”
You shook your head, firm in your decision. You’ll tell him tomorrow. “You’ve done enough for today. We’ve all been running ourselves ragged. Just go to bed, Bakugou. I’ve got this.”
His jaw ticked at your dismissiveness. He didn’t want to wait till tomorrow, how could you not understand this. “Like hell I will. Spit it out before I drag it out of you.” Bakugou grumbled, his eyes sharpening into a glare.
You held up your hands in mock surrender. Not wanting to fight or agitate him any further. It was simply just a heavy topic that’s easier to swallow when he wasn’t sleep-deprived. “Seriously, I’ll handle it. Go rest. We need you sharp tomorrow.” You reassured, giving him a look to trust you.
Bakugou hesitated for a moment, then grunted, clearly still unconvinced but too tired to argue further. You were stuck with them anyway. It wasn’t like you were going to run off. “Fine. But...” He shot you one last look before pushing back from the table and heading for the stairs. “We’re talking in the morning. No exceptions.”
You firmly nod, meeting his gaze as you reassure him once more.“Of course,” all you could muster was a small smile. As Bakugou disappeared up the stairs, the weight of what you had to do settled over you. Once the room was quiet, you let out a long breath and reached for the crystal pendant around your neck, feeling its cool surface against your fingertips. The soft glow within it flickered to life as you concentrated, your breath wavering as you prepared to make the call.
The pendant warmed in your palm, and after a few moments, the familiar voice crackled through the connection. Holding it tightly, you closed your eyes and whispered an incantation, your voice barely a whisper. After using this gadget so much, it’s something you know how to use fully. The crystal warmed in your palm, and after a moment, the faint outline of a figure began to shimmer within its depths.
"Come on, answer…" you murmured to yourself, feeling the magic connect.
Then that calm voice speaks up.
“Been a while since I heard from you, what’s going on?”
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a/n: this chapter took a while to make, idk why i was struggling so much but enjoy!! @chocogoldie @devils-adversary @l0kisbitch @miikii0 @onlyisaa @sleepisfortheweakpooh @helena-way07 @enzstr @qardasngan @rednicotine @318474hello @d4rlinxs @sgtrjivc @ky0ruuu @naliarefira @katsukispubies @kitsunetori
notes: strangers to lovers, fantasy universe, bakusquad, slow burn, fluff, slight angst, draconic language and culture, other tags to be added ...
status: ongoing - this will be updated weekly, every Tuesday.
part list
pairing: barbarian!Katsuki Bakugou x fem!reader
chapter list
chapter 1
↬ excerpt:
The bard shrugs, resting his elbows on the table with an air of quiet conviction. "Stories are what keep us alive. They remind us of where we’ve been, what we’ve survived, and inspire others to forge their own paths. Besides," he adds with a grin, "I have a feeling your story is one worth hearing."
chapter 2
↬ excerpt:
Denki and Sero exchanged glances, both grinning now as they walked behind you. “I think they’re gonna get along just fine,” Sero whispered.
“Or kill each other trying,” Denki added with a laugh.
chapter 3
↬ excerpt:
There were a couple of things Bakugou noticed about you. It was natural that he was slightly curious about the latest addition to the party. After all, he needed to know if you’d be a threat to them, whether you were loyal, or if you’d bolt if the second things got too rough. Being suspicious of people was second nature to him—he didn’t know anything about you, and you weren’t exactly an open book either.
chapter 4
↬ excerpt:
“She’s not what I expected. That’s all. She’s got guts, I’ll give her that. But the Veil—” He trails off, his thoughts drifting to the dense, dangerous forest. “The Veil isn’t a place for anyone who isn’t serious. She’s not just a mapmaker. She’s… stubborn. Determined. Like she’s got something to prove.”
“Well then,” the bard asks, his voice softer now. “Did she prove it?”
chapter 5
↬ excerpt:
As more time passed, more facets of your character and abilities were unveiled, particularly within the complexities of the woods where your skills were most apparent. The group grew increasingly curious by your depth of knowledge and confidence with which you navigated both the physical and mystical aspects of the forest.
chapter 6
↬ excerpt:
“Karshoj, I thought you were an expert on these shitty woods!” Bakugou cursed, his voice smouldering with frustration as he kicked a nearby rock, sending it skittering across the ground. His fiery eyes locked onto you, anger practically radiating from him.
chapter 7
↬ excerpt:
“Let’s keep moving,” he said, his voice slipping back into its usual hardness as he took the lead once more. And Bakugou’s quest was barely halfway done. There were still more artefacts to find, more trials ahead. It wasn’t over, not by a long shot. And right now, the biggest obstacle to overcome was getting his group together and getting out of the caves.
chapter 8
↬ excerpt:
A day of rest was long overdue for the team. Especially after getting lost in those cave systems for god knows how long. Navigating through those tunnels had drained the group’s energy and dampened their spirits. Leaving them in desperate need of a break. It was clear to the group that they needed time to recover.
chapter 9
↬ excerpt:
“This is it,” you murmured, your voice barely more than a breath as you took in the serene beauty of the heart of Niniel’s Veil. The clearing before you was unlike anything you’d ever seen. A perfect circle enclosed by towering, ancient trees that seemed to watch over the space with silent reverence.
chapter 10
↬ excerpt:
Bakugou’s response was immediate and predictable, his brows furrowing as he let out a sharp scoff. “Hell no. You think I want her tagging along, running her mouth at every turn? She’s got a real attitude problem. Always got something to say, always pushing my buttons.”
comment if you want to be in the taglist for this series
Hi i hope you're doing good , i just wanted to check on you because it's been months since your last update, i really hope that you will continue your story someday, and i really love your writing 💕
Thank you for checking in!!! I'm so sorry I haven't been active lately 🥲 I've been doing my last year of uni + thesis and things are just hectic 😭
Winter break soon tho! Meaning I can write for a good bit!!
You don’t have to answer but I just wanted to let you know that the tale of two lovers series is sooo well written. Giggling and kicking my feet everytime you update
All your sweet comments make me bawl 😭😭 im so glad people enjoy my lil fic 🥰 everyone's comments motivate me to keep going with my silly delusions
pairing: barbarian! katsuki bakugou x reader (female)
summary: a bard approaches a lone barbarian in search for a story to tell. Who could have known that the barbarian end up being such a romantic tale.
notes: fantasy au, fluff, strangers to lovers, slow burn, bakusquad, barbarian bakugou, end of part one
word count: 8.5k
part list
part two: chapter list
a/n: i'm so glad to start part two :)) but i did struggle with this part justtt a little
“We’re finally out!”
Clear as day, Denki's loud cry echoed in the air. His voice rang through the air, spooking some birds that were resting on a tree. The birds didn’t sound too happy being scared off their resting spot. In return, they squawked at Denki brashly as they flew off, cursing at the blond in some avian language. You pushed aside the last of the bush, clearing the way as the group stepped out of Niniel’s Veil. Finally. The air here felt lighter. Fresh and relieving enough to wake your aching body. After what felt like ages, you were all out of the cursed forest. It’s been far too long since you’ve set foot on ground that you didn’t have to think twice about.
The group emerged into the open, and for the first time in a month, they could see the bright sky. They had gotten so accustomed to the canopies of trees that they’d almost forgotten how clear the sky could be. Niniel’s Veil had disappeared behind you, replaced by the open plains and worn out dirt paths. Actual paths and open fields? The mere sight of it was heavenly. Each of you felt relief in your bones after spending so long navigating those twisted trees.
“Can’t believe we made it,” Kirishima yawned mid-stretch. He let out a low groan, he could finally relax. The redhead let out another loud groan as he stretched, the sharp crack of his back sounding almost blissful. “Almost two months... feels like we’ve been in there forever.”
“Yeah, it felt like we were never getting out,” Mina commented, adjusting the leather strap of her shoulder bag. “That place seriously messed with my head.”
Denki nodded, eyeing the land as though the fields themselves were priceless treasure. You didn’t blame him, you could understand the sentiment. “Thank the gods… we’re finally free.” He groaned, letting out a rather dramatic heavy sigh.
“It was a close call a few times,” you admitted, rolling your shoulders back trying to ease the uncomfortable stiffness sitting on your spine. Your back was killing you, pulsing with an ache. If you could, you’d choose to collapse right here on the ground. However, knowing a certain barbarian, you would consequently get yelled at. Frankly, you did not have the energy for that.
While the journey was gruelling you never did lose the confidence in getting out of the ancient woods, it was only that you didn’t expect to be in there for that long. Your sights fell onto the barbarian who was already looking onwards for the next adventure. As if he had the energy or gold to continue on. That fool needs rest, whether he likes it or not. The smallest of smiles drifted upon your lips before you stepped up beside him. “But we got what we came for.”
“There wasn’t a chance we’d leave without it,” Bakugou muttered under his breath, his tone sharp as always. He was already thinking of the next destination. “Third artefact down. One step closer to the finish line.”
“Could’ve done without the Veil’s tricks, though,” Sero said, his voice carrying the exhaustion of the journey. “That place did not want us to leave.”
Bakugou scoffed, already prepared to get going. The stubborn ox of a man already trudging onwards on the dirt path. “Too bad for it. It was never going to keep me there.”
Denki chuckled, still basking in the victory of escaping. “Y’know, we’re practically legends now,” he declared, pausing just long enough to let the weight of the title hang in the air. With a smug lift of his brow, he gave Kirishima a playful nudge as they walked. “We survived Niniel’s Veil and lived to tell the tale. That’s practically unheard of.”
You’re amused at Denki’s enthusiasm. Was he going to use that fact to charm every tavern girl now? A brand new, glowing achievement to use to impress the ladies? You shook your head at the mere thought. Tilting your head back, you let your eyes follow the drift of clouds across the endless blue, breathing in deeply as fatigue rattled your bones. “I could use a break.” was all you could really say.
“It would be nice to be somewhere that isn’t actively trying to kill us.” Sero agreed with a tired smile stretched on his face.
For now, you had earned a moment of peace. Now only open roads lay ahead. A beat of silence passes before you unfurl your trusted map. Tracing the familiar lines and checking for any surrounding towns. Lips parted, muttering to yourself as you scanned the parchment. The area was sparsely dotted with settlements, but you searched for the closest one. One place stood out to you. Not far at all and decently sized. Perhaps not a town, closer to a village really. It was better than nothing.
Rolling up your map, you spoke up, “We should head to the town of Driffin, it’s only ten miles away.” Your gaze swept over the group before settling on Bakugou, giving a firm look. Emphasising the next words for him. “We can rest there, regroup, and figure out our next move.”
Bakugou gave a grunt of agreement, not in the mood to speak. He was tired, whether he wanted to admit it or not. “Good. We need supplies, too. We’re running low.” Short, clipped responses slipping past his grumbling, already striding ahead.
“I could definitely use an actual bed,” Kirishima’s voice dragged with fatigue. He let out another loud groan as he cracked his neck. “And maybe a hot meal that isn’t dried rations for a change.”
Mina’s eyes lit up at the sound of actual food. Her stomach grumbled at the mere idea. “Yes! A real meal sounds like heaven right now.”
The group started to move with a cheer, already discussing what to do once they reach the town. The lingering tension of the Veil was fading as the thought of Driffin became the next goal. A place with warm food, soft beds, and safety. You led the way, your mind already thinking of falling into some soft sheets. Driffin was a small town, but it would offer the rest you all desperately needed. There was a collective sense of relief, knowing that for the first time in weeks, they were heading toward somewhere safe. Even if it was just for a brief rest. As they walked, the conversation naturally shifted toward the newest addition to the team: you.
Small jokes, murmured reassurances, and the occasional glance in your direction. It was clear that they were glad you’d decided to stick around, to join them on this unpredictable, wild ride. And you were glad to stay as well. These weren’t just people you’d agreed to help anymore. Along the bumpy ride, they’d become friends. It had been a long time since you’d truly connected with anyone. You wanted to stay and see where the journey would take everyone. And, if you were honest with yourself, part of that pull came from curiosity. Bakugou still had artefacts left to claim, and you wanted to see him finish his quest. To be there when it all came together. Kirishima was the first to voice his approval.
“I’m glad you decided to stay. We need people like you.” A grin stretched across Kirishima’s face as he glanced back at you. One by one, the others added to the warm conversation.
“Yeah, no complaints from me,” Denki added, flashing you a thumbs-up. “Plus, she makes things more interesting. The more, the merrier, right?”
Mina’s grin widened as she hugged you from behind. Her looped arms loose as the two of you walked. A light giggle bubbled from the both of you. “Definitely. It’s been fun having you around. You’re good with magic and maps, but you also get the team. That’s not always easy to find,” Mina chimed in with a wink. “More than that though, you’re also not half bad at keeping Bakugou in check.”
You couldn’t help but smirk at that, though Bakugou who was a little ahead, scoffed in response. You couldn’t see it but you knew he had that iconic scowl on him. “Don’t start.” he muttered, not wanting to entertain this conversation in the slightest.
Sero leaned in to whisper into the group, keeping his volume down so a certain blond wouldn’t hear his teasing. “He says that now, but we all know he’s just glad someone else can keep up with his attitude.”
Denki laughed, elbowing Sero in agreement. “Right? I was starting to think he was gonna snap one of our necks eventually. But now he’s got someone else to argue with.”
Sero leaned in a little closer, lowering his voice even more. A sly smirk on his lips as he glanced at Bakugou and you. "Honestly, I think he’s happy someone can argue with him."
Denki sniggered, his hand clasping over his mouth to muffle the sound. Though you could see his goofish grin peeking through. "I thought we were gonna be stuck getting yelled at for the rest of the trip. You’ve given him a new target, and we all appreciate it."
You shook your head at their words. “Glad I could take the heat off you guys, I guess.”
Ahead of you, Bakugou’s voice cut through, his ears clearly catching bits of the conversation. “I can hear you idiots,” he growled, barking back at the two to get them to shut it. “I do not need anyone keeping up with my attitude.”
At his words, Sero raised an eyebrow, glancing at you with a cheeky grin. Thumb jutted out, pointing at the back of the barbarian. “See? He’s already getting defensive.”
Bakugou shot him a glare but didn’t bother to respond, quickening his pace slightly as if to distance himself from the banter. You couldn’t help but chuckle at the exchange, feeling more like you’re a part of this group. It’s a warm sensation that fills your chest as you walk with them, feeling accepted and belonging.
Mina leaned into your ear, her voice lower. “He’ll never admit it, but having you around has definitely made things better.”
"Well, someone’s got to keep him in check, right?" You laughed, already able to feel the heat radiating from the blond barbarian ahead.
For someone who’s been listening all along, Bakugou is much quieter than usual. You pinned it on him being exhausted. He didn’t turn around to look at your smug faces, grumbling with a huff. “..As if you could keep me in check.” the grouch muttered under his breath, quickening his pace to get ahead.
As the group’s chatter continued, you stayed silent. You had come into this team a stranger, but now you were all companions. You had carved out a place among them. The journey ahead was probably going to be long and dangerous, but being with them made it feel doable. It all felt a little less intimidating with them. And if you were going to suffer, at least it would be with them right? As the road stretched out before you, the warmth of Mina’s embrace and the shared laughter from Denki and Sero made you feel closer. You were becoming part of their story.
Before you knew it, the town welcomed you with warmth and simplicity. Cobbled streets and small, thatched-roof cottages giving off a mellow vibe. It wasn’t large, perhaps the size of a village, but it had everything you all needed. A place to rest and recover after the lengthy, treacherous trek through Niniel’s Veil. The sound of chatter from the marketplace filled the streets as you made your way toward the local inn. The one that Denki mentioned had the best honey cakes. Lanterns hung from doorways, casting a soft glow on the cobblestone streets as the group made its way toward the inn.
The inn itself was cozy, a rustic building with worn wooden beams and the comforting smell of hearth fire and honey drifting from within. The group practically swarmed inside, eager for a break from the wilds. Two rooms were secured, but as everyone settled in, Bakugou raised a point. He opened the drawstring coin bag with a low drag, the contents inside being rather sparse.
“We need more coin,” he said, leaning against the doorframe of the inn's common room. His hand bounced the light coin bag, gripping it tight as he continued to make his point. “We’ve still got some left from the last job, but we’d better replenish it before we head out again.”
Kirishima peered into the coin purse, squinting as he eyed the lacking gold. His expression scrunched up at the grim amount. “Yeah, you’re right. We burned through a lot of supplies back in the Veil. If we want to stock up properly, we’ll need more gold.”
Mina twirled a strand of her hair, looking at the bulletin board that hung on the wall. She plucked one of the flyers, reading the description. “We could always pick up a few odd jobs while we’re here. Small towns like this always need help with something, right?”
Denki, who was leaning against the wall, grinned and stepped over to snatch the flyer Mina was holding. It earned a light smack from the tiefling but he was unfazed. “Sounds good to me. Some work that doesn’t involve fighting and running from monsters.”
Sero stepped next to Denki, leaning in to get a read of the job listing. “We could use the extra coin. Who knows what kind of expensive supplies we’ll need for the next leg of the journey?”
You considered the idea, going up to the board and selecting a few job offers that paid decently. “We could split up, cover more ground that way.” As you spoke, you were already handing out a few listings to everyone.
Bakugou skimmed through the job listing, grunting in response. “As long as we don’t waste too much time, I’m in. We can split up, get things done quicker. No point hanging around here longer than we need to.”
Sero looked over at you. “You think we could ask the innkeeper or locals? They probably know what needs doing around here.”
“Definitely,” you replied, glancing toward the front of the inn where the innkeeper was busy tending to a customer. “Small towns like this always have something going on. I’ll ask around.”
Kirishima grinned, getting pumped with renewed energy. How did he always get so energised? “Alright! Let’s do this, then. Some work, some rest, and we’ll be ready for whatever comes next.”
Denki groaned, pushing himself off the wall and letting out a rather theatrical groan. “Just as long as I’m not stuck hauling heavy hay around. My back’s still killing me from the Veil.”
“Don’t worry, Denki. You can get the easy jobs, as usual.” Mina laughed, nudging him playfully.
Bakugou rolled his eyes at Denki’s whining. “If you can’t handle it, just say so. We’ll leave the hard stuff to the rest of us.”
“I can handle it! I’m just saying... a little break wouldn’t hurt.” Denki’s ego bristled at his friend’s reactions. So he defended himself, straightening up as he picked out one of the listings.
The group began to disperse, spirits lifted by the idea of a few days of lighter tasks and the promise of proper beds and warm meals. As you headed toward the innkeeper, you felt the weight of the journey finally begin to ease— no high-stakes battles or cursed forests, just a few odd jobs in a peaceful town. Everyone split off in smaller groups, hoping to get these jobs done quickly. Working together on simple mundane tasks.
A few, easy, peaceful odd jobs.
Right?
“How are you this bad at catching chickens?!” you yelled, exasperation dripping from your voice as you swatted a flurry of feathers from your face. This was far from being easy or peaceful.
Your unfortunate partner for this task, Kirishima, was in the middle of tripping over a fence, trying to grab a particularly nimble hen. “I’m trying! These little guys are faster than they look!” he huffed, scrambling to his feet with a huff. Despite how good he was at combat, chasing chickens seemed to be his undoing.
“Maybe try not scaring them off like you’re a charging brute?” you snapped, trying to corner a few chickens that had scattered at Kirishima’s last attempt. Your eyes followed the frantic blur of feathers, and you lunged, managing to catch one by the legs. Victory surged through you, but as soon as you had it in hand, another three took off in the opposite direction. This was going to be a long afternoon.
Kirishima rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. He looked lost and guilty for being this bad. “Sorry! I don’t think chicken catching is my strong suit.”
“No kidding,” you muttered, holding the squirming chicken close to your chest as you tried to strategize. Squinting at the chickens that scrambled about. "At this rate, we'll be here until next week."
Just then, Denki wandered up, casually leaning on the fence, clearly enjoying the spectacle. “You two look like you’re having a blast,” he called out with a punchable smug smirk plastered on his face. “Need some help or should I keep watching?”
“Oh please, by all means, watch while we do all the work,” you replied sarcastically, rolling your eyes as another chicken darted past Kirishima’s feet, completely unbothered by him. Not even fazed when Kirishima tried to swoop in to catch it. He was seriously bad at this.
Kirishima shot Denki a look, rising up with his hands on his hips. “Come on, man, either help or— oh!” He cut himself off as another chicken darted between his legs, causing him to spin and nearly lose his balance again.
Denki laughed, hopping over the fence in one smooth motion. “Alright, alright, I’ll save you two. Honestly, how hard could it be?”
…
Denki’s confidence lasted for all of ten seconds before the chickens, seemingly sensing his cockiness, scattered even faster. He dove for one but missed spectacularly, landing face-first in the dirt. Well, that went about as well as you thought. You weren’t sure why Denki was so confident but it did not last.
"Nice save, Denki," you said dryly, holding back a laugh as he pushed himself up, spitting out a bit of dust. A smidge of dirt still on his cheek.
“They’re slippery!” he protested, brushing dirt off his clothes. "I thought this would be easy."
“Yeah, no kidding,” you muttered. “We’ve been chasing them around like headless chickens out here.”
Just then, Bakugou’s unmistakable voice barked from the distance, louder than necessary. His voice alone was enough for you to give up and simply collapse. Not this meathead. “What the hell are you all doing?! They’re chickens, not enemies! Get it together!”
You groaned. Another one to join this chicken party. “Great, now he’s watching.”
Bakugou approached, arms crossed and that familiar irritating look on his face. The one where he was so sure he could do better. The one that always has you fighting to wipe it off him. “You catch ‘em by herding them together, not running around like idiots.”
“Oh, now you show up with the advice,” you shot back, glaring at him. Frankly annoyed at both the chickens and the introduction of Bakugou. And honestly, the overwhelming sensation of the heat, the flutter of feathers and the sticky sensation of sweat. What you would give for rest. “Why don’t you come down here and help, then?”
Bakugou smirked, ready to prove him right and you wrong. He was enjoying the chaos. Could’ve stayed and watched you idiots run around like the same chickens that were meant to be captured. But he stepped forward nonetheless, going over the fence. Not because he’s a saint. Because he wants to rub it in your face. “Fine. Watch and learn.”
In one swift motion, Bakugou lunged and snatched a chicken by the wings, holding it up victoriously. A cocky, smug smirk aimed directly at you. “See? Not that hard.” Your eye twitched. Not that hard. Great! So, how about fifteen more?
You wanted to argue as usual but Kirishima and Denki exchanged a look with you. And then you all shrugged. At least with Bakugou’s help, maybe you wouldn’t be chasing chickens all day. With Bakugou herding the flock, things went a little smoother. Though there were still a few close calls, like Denki tripping over his own feet and you nearly losing your grip on a particularly feisty hen. By the end of it, the group was covered in dirt and feathers, but the runaway chickens were corralled back into their pen.
Panting, you wiped sweat from your forehead. “I never want to see another chicken again.”
Kirishima laughed, dusting himself off. Relieved that he no longer needed to run around chasing those birds. “Who knew they could be so tough to catch?”
Denki stretched, wincing from his earlier fall. Eyeing the chickens that are now in their coop. “I could eat them right about now.”
“Could’ve been faster.” Bakugou huffed. Generic response expected from him.
“Yeah, yeah,” you muttered, exhausted at having to hear his grating voice after all that chicken catching. “Next time, we’ll leave all the chickens to you.”
Bakugou sneered. “You are all useless.”
The panting from all the running, the scratches on your arms, and the feathers sticking to your clothes— everything seemed worth it when the farmer handed you the bag of coins. Finally. Money. Gold. You let out a breathless chuckle as you tucked the pouch into your pocket, wiping the sweat from your forehead with the back of your hand. "All that for chickens," you muttered to yourself, still feeling the adrenaline buzzing through your veins.
As you caught your breath, a thought crossed your mind. Right. How are Mina and Sero doing?
It didn’t take long to spot Mina, darting across the square with a large box precariously balanced in her arms. She caught sight of you and, despite her loaded hands, gave a quick wave. "Hey!" she called out, her voice cheerful even in the midst of her task. "Finished wrangling chickens?"
“Barely,” you called back, chuckling. You jogged over to her, still feeling the exhaustion from the chicken job. "What’s all this?"
"Deliveries!" she replied with a grin, adjusting her grip on the box. Ensuring it doesn’t slip her fingertips. "The local shopkeeper needed help, so I’m running stuff around town. Sero’s out gathering ingredients for the local alchemist. We figured we might as well get some extra work done while we’re here. You wanna lend a hand?”
You raised an eyebrow, glancing at the box she was struggling with. “Sure, why not? Need any help with that?”
"You read my mind. This thing's heavier than it looks." Mina laughed, eagerly handing the box over to you. Shifting it carefully into your arms.
You took the box from her, realising she wasn’t exaggerating. You let out a surprised grunt at the weight. “What’s in here? Rocks?”
"Close enough," she replied, wiping a bit of sweat from her brow. "It’s herbs, oils, and some other stuff the apothecary ordered. Apparently, they don’t do light packages.”
As you both made your way through town, Mina filled you in on Sero’s task. "Sero’s out by the woods collecting rare plants for some fancy potions. He could probably use a hand if you’re up for it. He's been out there for a while now.”
You nodded as you shifted the box in your arms. "Gathering plants sounds nice actually. I’ll help him out after we drop this off."
Mina grinned. "Great! He’s just outside of town, near that big oak tree. You know the one. I’ll catch up with you guys once I’m done with these deliveries."
Together, you dropped off the box at the apothecary, whose delighted smile made the heavy lifting feel a bit more worthwhile. After helping Mina with the deliveries to the apothecary, the two of you headed toward the bakery, where another delivery was waiting. You figured you’d help her with another run when you saw the large stack of boxes waiting at the bakery’s front. Maybe Sero would be fine on his own. But just as you were about to lift one, you both ran into Denki, Kirishima, and Bakugou coming down the street.
Kirishima raised an eyebrow, noticing the boxes Mina was struggling with. “What’s Mina doing with all those deliveries?”
Mina skidded to a stop in front of them, the box wobbling dangerously in her arms before she regained control. “Oh, I took on some delivery jobs for the local shops! This box is for the baker down the street, but I’ve got a few more to run around town.” She set the box down for a moment, catching her breath. “Honestly, could use some help with the rest. Sero’s out gathering ingredients for the alchemist, and it’s a lot more running around than I thought.”
Denki, still catching his breath from the chicken fiasco, groaned. “More running? I’m not sure I’ve got it in me. I barely survived the chickens!”
Mina laughed, giving Denki a playful shove. “Come on, it’s easy work compared to what we just did. No angry chickens involved. Plus, the baker promised free pastries if we help out.”
Kirishima perked up at the mention of baked goods, like a dog hearing the shake of the treat jar. “Alright, I’m in! Could use a good snack after all that running.” He was already stretching his legs to get ready for this arduous task of delivering boxes around.
Bakugou glanced at the pile of boxes with a sigh. He too was tired, even if he didn’t want to admit it. “Fine, let’s get this over with. But I’m not wasting all day on this.”
With them helping Mina, you slipped away. Mina had more than enough help. You headed toward the edge of town where Sero was gathering ingredients. As you walked, you couldn’t help but take a moment to enjoy this. Simple small-town work, as mundane as it seemed, was a nice change of pace from the life-threatening chaos of your usual adventures. It was good to have these moments— easy, everyday jobs that reminded you what normalcy felt like. When you reached the oak tree, you spotted Sero crouched near a patch of wildflowers, carefully inspecting the plants. "Need some help?" you called out.
Sero glanced up, a grin spreading across his face. "Hey! Perfect timing. I could use an extra set of eyes. This alchemist is picky. Only wants the best quality stuff, and I think I’m going cross-eyed from staring at plants."
You chuckled, joining him at the patch. Kneeling down on the soft ground as you squinted at the fauna. “No problem. Let’s get this done, and maybe we’ll actually have some time to relax today.”
"As long as the alchemist doesn’t send us back out here for more." Sero said with a dry laugh, already looking back at the patch of greenery.
With the two of you working together, the task felt easier, and the sun started to dip lower in the sky. Hues of orange bathed the both of you crouched under the oak tree. You were grateful for the simplicity of the day’s work, even if it had involved quick chickens, heavy deliveries, and now, herbs. As you and Sero crouched among the rows of herbs, the earthy scent of freshly turned soil filling the air, you glanced over at him. His eyes sharply focused on the plants, fingers deftly plucking the right leaves. You watched him for a moment before deciding to speak.
“Sero, what do you think of the journey so far?” you asked as you reached for another plant. You didn’t know him all that well, and this felt like a good moment to change that.
Sero paused for a second, a thoughtful expression crossing his face as he tucked the herbs into the collection bag. "It’s been... intense," he admitted, a small grin tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Definitely not what I expected. But it’s been good. You know, three artefacts in and we’re still standing, so I’d call that a win."
“You’ve been here longer than I have. Any regrets?” You smiled as you tucked a few more herbs into the collection bag.
He shook his head, reflecting back on this wild journey, his grin widening. "Nah, no regrets. It’s been crazy, but I’m close with everyone now. You get used to the chaos, and besides, it’s not every day you get to hunt down ancient artefacts. Keeps life interesting."
“Used to all the chaos?” You chuckled, shaking your head as you plucked a few leaves from the plant in front of you. Getting used to all this chaos would make it hard to go back to normal life.
He shrugged but his next words were genuine. “Chaos, sure. But it’s not just the danger and the running around. It’s the group. Being around you guys makes it easier. Even when things go sideways, I know we’ll figure it out.”
You think back to the memories in Niniel’s Veil. The trek, the caves and the heart of the veil. “Yeah, we’ve definitely been through a lot already, but it’s just getting started.”
Sero hummed thoughtfully, tucking a few more herbs into the bag pinned by his belt. “You’re fitting in pretty quick, though. It’s not easy to jump into the middle of something like this, but you’ve handled it well.” He paused for a moment, then added, “It helps that everyone’s pretty tight. Makes the whole journey feel less like a job and more like an adventure.”
“Definitely feels like an adventure,” you agreed. “I mean, chasing down artefacts, dodging traps, dealing with whatever’s lurking about— it’s not exactly boring.”
“No, never boring. Though I’ve gotta say, after doing this twice before, the stakes keep getting higher.” Sero leaned back on his heels, looking at you with a curious expression. “What about you? How’s it been so far, joining us in the middle of all this?”
You hesitated for a moment, thinking about how the group had quickly become friends to you. It surprised you sometimes, how easily you’d slipped into their rhythm. You hadn’t expected to grow so attached, but here you were, caring more than you thought you would. “Honestly? It’s been... better than I expected. I didn’t know what to think at first… jumping into a group that already had history. But everyone’s been great. And, yeah, the journey can get intense, but it’s been worth it. I’m starting to see why you guys stick together.”
Sero listened to your answer, understanding what you meant. “Yeah, they’re good people. Denki especially, though I’d never say that to his face,” he added with a wink. “He’s like a brother, you know? Always gets himself into trouble, but he’s the first to crack a joke when things get rough.”
You smiled, recalling Denki’s endless humour and energy, even when the odds were against you. “I can see that. He’s good for morale.”
Sero glanced up as if he could hear Denki from across town. “Good for getting on your nerves, too, but I wouldn’t trade him for anything.”
The two of you continued picking the herbs in a comfortable silence for a few minutes before Sero spoke again, his tone more thoughtful. “You know, it’s weird... when I joined this group, I didn’t think I’d stick around this long. I figured I’d help out and then move on. But then the first artefact hunt happened, and by the second one... I don’t know, I guess I just couldn’t leave.”
You looked over at him, curious. “What made you stay?”
He considered that for a moment, his eyes softening. “I think it’s the same reason you’re here now. It’s the people. We might be chasing artefacts and running into danger every other day, but at the end of it, there’s always someone watching your back. That’s not easy to find.”
You smiled, feeling the truth in his words. “Yeah, I get that. It’s not just about the journey, it’s who you’re with.”
Sero chuckled, getting to his feet as he stuffed the last of the herbs into his bag. “Exactly. Plus, someone’s gotta make sure Denki doesn’t step on Bakugou’s toes.”
You laughed, rising to stand beside him. “Guess that’s a full-time job.”
“More than you know,” he grinned, giving you a friendly nudge with his elbow.
As the both of you plucked and gathered herbs for the apothecary, Sero slowly opened up to you. He and Denki, he explained, used to serve as knights in the kingdom of Bruwen— some frigid land up north. The work had its merits, but neither of them ever truly fit into the rigid discipline and formality the post demanded. There were countless times where the both of them got in trouble for their tomfoolery. How they didn’t get expelled sooner, Sero hadn’t had the faintest clue. So they left. Simply because the road beyond the castle walls called to them. They became a pair of wandering adventurers, drifting from one group to the next, taking whatever jobs that paid.
Then came the fateful meeting. How did they come into the dragonborn prince? Somewhere in the middle of nowhere, they quite literally stumbled into Bakugou and Kirishima. Sero chuckled at the memory: Denki had managed to bump into Bakugou, somehow triggering a trap that sealed them all inside. They had bickered every step of the way as they begrudgingly worked together to escape… yet, for reasons none of them could quite explain, it stuck. The four of them just stayed together. And not long after, Mina joined. They’d met her in a bustling little town looking for short work. But, and, as Sero put it, ‘things just clicked.’ From there, they’ve been travelling together.
The conversation ended as the both of you finished up. Sero rose up, brushing the dirt off his hands. “Yeah and well, you’re stuck with us now. Come on, let’s finish up here and meet the others. I’m sure Denki’s found some way to get himself in trouble by now.”
You laughed as you stood up, chucking the rest of the herbs into the bag. “Yeah, knowing Denki, you’re probably right.”
Sero wasn’t exactly wrong. Denki wasn’t an idiot most of the time— but he definitely had his moments, especially when it came to pissing Bakugou off. A special talent of his. The two of you returned with the bag of herbs. The apothecary was definitely strict, taking her time carefully inspecting them. Eventually, the apothecary looked satisfied, choosing to play the both of you handsomely for the meticulous care and effort. You and Sero returned to the inn, pockets full of coins from your errands, only to be greeted by the sight of Denki sprinting around the entrance, with Bakugou hot on his heels.
You groaned, already exhausted just watching them. While it was amusing, you also didn’t want any more problems. "What now?" you muttered under your breath, dreading the answer.
Sero shrugged at you, expecting something like this to happen. “Place your bets. I’m guessing it involves Denki saying something stupid.” Only Denki could get into trouble like this.
As you and Sero approached the inn, you spotted Mina and Kirishima lounging near the entrance, casually observing the chaos unfolding in front of them. Both of them wore matching grins, clearly entertained by the spectacle of Denki running for his life from an enraged Bakugou. You almost felt bad for Denki from how he was sprinting from the barbarian.
Amongst the both of them, Kirishima leaned toward Mina. His grin wide, holding back a laugh as he watched Denki barely dodge Bakugou. “Ten gold on Denki lasting five more minutes before Bakugou catches him.”
Mina snickered at both the bet and the entertainment in front of her. Kirishima had way too much faith in Denki for such a bet. “Oh, please. Five minutes? Bakugou’s about to explode. Denki’s got maybe a minute before he’s toast.”
They both laughed, barely containing their amusement as Bakugou finally managed to grab Denki by the back of his shirt. Even lesser than a minute. Mina grinned and nudged Kirishima to pay up. “Told you. He’s tough, but not that tough.” The dragonborn snickered as he tossed ten gold into her open palm.
Your eyes tracked Denki and Bakugou as the scene continued to unfold in front of you. Denki, with pure luck and desperation, scrambled out of Bakugou’s grasp. The sound of the collar slipping through Bakugou’s grip. Denki immediately took off, sprinting down the inn's courtyard. A nasty roar from Bakugou echoed through the air, his fists clenched in frustration as he stormed after him, his patience practically non-existent.
Denki darted around a corner of crates, laughing nervously as he stammered to reason with Bakugou. “Come on, Bakugou! I didn’t mean for it to turn out this way!”
Bakugou boomed explosively, his anger bursting through his voice. “I’m gonna kill you!”
Poor Denki. You shook your head as you watched the spectacle. Unsure of how to even step in or if you even wanted to. “Never a quiet day, huh?” you muttered to yourself, a dry laugh slipping past your lips.
Sero chuckled as well, watching Denki try to loop around a stack of crates. His best friend still pleading for his life. “Not with those two around.
You both stepped closer to the commotion, Denki’s panicked voice being much clearer now. As if the both weren’t loud enough. “I didn’t mean it like that, Bakugou! It was just a compliment! Technically!”
"Yeah, right, you idiot!" Bakugou snarled, his eyes lit ablaze with fury. He eyed Denki, trying to snatch him up. “I’ve been cleaning up your mess for the last hour because you couldn’t keep your mouth shut!”
Sero raised an eyebrow. Hands on his hips as he asked for more details. “What mess exactly?”
Denki, still running in circles to avoid Bakugou’s wrath, risked a glance in your direction. “Okay, so it was just a little misunderstanding—” Oh— and there goes Denki. He ducked at the last minute and scampered off.
“He started a damn tavern brawl!” Bakugou cut him off, lunging again, though Denki just barely dodged. Was Bakugou just sluggish tonight or was Denki just insanely lucky?
You sighed, already feeling the headache forming. Did they get kicked out of the inn? Were they going to sleep on the streets tonight? “What did you say this time, Denki?”
Denki skidded to a stop near you, hands on his knees, catching his breath. “I– I was just trying to compliment this woman in the tavern, you know? I said she had nice... biceps, or something like that, and—”
“And it turns out she’s the wife of one of the biggest and drunkest guys in the place,” Bakugou growled, finally catching up and grabbing Denki by the back of his shirt again. This time gripping it tight so Denki doesn’t slip away like before. “Which led to everyone throwing punches!”
Denki winced as Bakugou hauled him up, his feet barely touching the ground. “Hey, how was I supposed to know she was married? It was a harmless compliment! People need to be more secure in their relationships.” Amidst the ruckus, Denki was right about that.
Sero snorted at the retelling of the story. Even after knowing Denki for so long, sometimes he couldn’t believe the shit his friend gets into. “So, let me get this straight. With one badly worded compliment and you managed to turn the entire tavern into a brawl?”
Denki flashed a sheepish grin, clearly still feeling the high of the adrenaline. “Yeah, I guess it escalated. But! I think I won that first punch before Bakugou jumped in. Right, man?”
Bakugou’s eyes narrowed as he yanked Denki back, yelling at the troublemaker in his hands. “You didn’t win anything! You hid behind me while I dealt with half the room!”
You massaged your temples, trying to process the absurdity of it all. “And now you’re running around like a couple of kids while the tavern’s recovering from this mess?”
Denki shot you a pleading look. As if his puppy eyes could win his case. “It wasn’t that bad. And hey, we’re not banned... yet.”
Bakugou’s grip tightened, and you could practically see the murderous intent in his eyes. “You’re lucky I didn’t leave you behind in that mess, you damn idiot.”
You couldn’t help but laugh, shaking your head. Remembering Sero’s words about his best friend. Not an idiot most of the time. For all this trouble, it did lighten your mood. Sure you all had to worry about being banned but this was hilarious. “Well, at least it’s never boring with him around.”
Denki, still caught in Bakugou’s grasp, laughed nervously. “See? I keep things interesting! Just... you know, maybe you can let me down now, Bakugou?”
Bakugou growled but finally dropped Denki, who stumbled before straightening up and brushing himself off. “Next time do us all a favour and shut the fuck up.”
Even after getting rattled by Bakugou, Denki had the energy to give a mock salute. Rather daring since Bakugou could still grab ahold of him. “Aye sir. Message received, loud and clear.”
You sighed, shaking your head, ushering him to get into the inn. “Come on, let’s get inside before Bakugou changes his mind and decides to punt you into the ground.”
As you four walked up to inn’s entrance where Mina and Kirishima were, the both of them lit up. The pink skinned fighter spoke up first, waving her arm at you. “What took you guys so long? You missed the best part! Denki started a full-on tavern brawl over a compliment.”
“We heard,” Sero replied, a grin tugging at the corner of his mouth. Peeking at his best friend, looping an arm around his shoulder as they walked together. “Seems like Denki’s flirting skills are as sharp as ever.”
Kirishima chuckled, watching as Bakugou stormed into the inn. Practically able to see the steam seething off his friend. “Honestly, I thought Bakugou was going to finish what the tavern didn’t.”
“Bakugou might still, if Denki opens his mouth again,” you muttered, shooting a look at the fuming barbarian and the sheepish idiot. You held the door of the inn open as each member walked in. You couldn’t help but ask the long-time spectators of the event. “How bad was it?”
Mina leaned in, eyes twinkling as she replayed the moments in her head. “Oh, it was glorious. Denki tried to compliment some woman, and the next thing you know, her husband’s swinging fists. The whole place went down like dominoes, and of course, Bakugou had to step in and handle it.”
Kirishima joined in, laughing along at the memory. His grin widening as he spoke through a chortle. “Yeah, Bakugou was not happy, but I gotta give Denki credit— he managed to duck out just in time. The guy’s got reflexes.”
Denki, overhearing the conversation as he dusted himself off, raised his hands in mock surrender. Once again, trying to defend himself. “Come on, you guys. I’m not that bad! I was just trying to make conversation.”
Bakugou cut it short with a glowering glare, stepping closer to him. His steps are heavy and his bark is biting. “Make conversation again, and I’ll make sure you’re the one swinging next time.” It quickly shut Denki up, watching him shrink down with a pitiful look.
As the group made their way inside, you couldn’t help but chuckle. Chaos seemed to follow Denki wherever he went, but at least there was never a dull moment. With the group finally reunited in one piece, you all made your way back into the inn, ready to (hopefully) end the day without any more disturbances. The innkeeper was agitated but he wasn’t going to ban anyone. All he wanted was for the group to scram at first light which was not a problem. The group made their way toward the stairs, their tired footsteps heavy from the day’s odd jobs. Everyone was eager to crash into their beds and get some much-needed rest. You followed along, but just as Bakugou began to ascend the stairs, you reached out and lightly tugged on his arm.
“Bakugou, wait,” you called out. There was one more thing you had to do before you turned in for the night. It most definitely couldn’t wait for the morning. He stopped mid-step, glancing back at you with an exhausted, grumpy expression. The others continued up without a second thought, too fatigued to notice the exchange.
“What? I’m not in the mood.” Bakugou narrowed his eyes on you, his voice roughened with the earlier frustrations. He was tired too. So were you. That’s why you were intent on keeping this short.
“We need to talk. About the next destination,” you said, motioning toward the common space of the inn. You knew that he would agree if it was about his quest. “Can we sit down for a minute?”
He looked like he might protest for a second, but then he sighed, realising this was important. Plus, you weren’t going to let it go. And even though all he wanted to do was to sink into a mattress. This was a needed conversation. “Fine,” he muttered, following you down the stairs and into the dimly lit common area. You both settled at a table near the fireplace, the crackling of the flames filling the silence between you. Bakugou leaned back in his chair, arms crossed over his chest. He got comfortable in the creaky wooden chair, a grunt leaving his lips.
“So, what is it?” he asked, wanting to get this over and done with.
You rested your arms on the table, your demeanour shifting to being a bit more serious. “I want to know what the next riddle is for the next artefact. We need to be ready, and I need to understand what we’re walking into.”
Bakugou shifted in his seat, clearly considering whether to share the details now or brush it off until later. But after a moment, he sighed and pulled a folded piece of parchment from his pants. “The riddle’s a pain in the ass, like the others,” he mumbled, unfolding it for you. “Listen to this.” He tossed it onto the table between you, the edges frayed from being handled too many times.
Bakugou showed you the latest riddle that pointed to the next location of the artefact. Whoever had hidden these relics across the continent had been considerate enough to leave riddles for each one. A twisted sense of generosity, if you had to guess. How kind of them to make this a scavenger hunt, you thought dryly.
Beneath the city,
where shadows dwell,
In halls where silence casts its spell,
A king's dark past and secrets lie,
Where whispers of the restless sigh.
Seek the tomb where spirits weep,
In crypts where ancient secrets sleep,
Solve the tales of Edresa's yore,
Each riddle etched on walls of lore.
You couldn’t help but feel that this wasn’t just another clue. It was a warning, etched into the lines of the riddle, daring anyone who sought the artefact to tread carefully. A chill slithered down your spine, prickling your skin. Edresa’s catacombs? Rather grim, if anyone asked you. Edresa was a prosperous city, full of life and trade, with bustling marketplaces that made it the heart of the region. But beneath all that vibrancy lay a shadowy secret, a network of ancient catacombs that few dared to speak of. To be honest, you hadn’t heard much about the labyrinthine tunnels beneath the city, but you knew someone who did.
“Edresa, huh…” you muttered softly to yourself, the name stirring memories of a dear friend who resided there. If the riddle pointed to Edresa, it might not be as impossible as it seemed. He could help you. He always had before.
Bakugou’s gaze sharpened when he noticed the shift in your expression. “You know the place?”
You nodded, but quickly waved it off. “Yeah, I know it,” you said, keeping your voice neutral. Not wanting to worry him this late. “But don’t worry about it right now. I know what to do. Get some rest. We’ll talk more in the morning.”
Bakugou narrowed his eyes at you, clearly suspicious. Not that his trust was faltering but he much rather knew what you were thinking. He wasn’t one to walk into something without knowing all he could. And he wasn’t going to have you withhold information from him. “If you’ve got a plan, spill it. If there’s something you’re not saying—.”
You shook your head, firm in your decision. You’ll tell him tomorrow. “You’ve done enough for today. We’ve all been running ourselves ragged. Just go to bed, Bakugou. I’ve got this.”
His jaw ticked at your dismissiveness. He didn’t want to wait till tomorrow, how could you not understand this. “Like hell I will. Spit it out before I drag it out of you.” Bakugou grumbled, his eyes sharpening into a glare.
You held up your hands in mock surrender. Not wanting to fight or agitate him any further. It was simply just a heavy topic that’s easier to swallow when he wasn’t sleep-deprived. “Seriously, I’ll handle it. Go rest. We need you sharp tomorrow.” You reassured, giving him a look to trust you.
Bakugou hesitated for a moment, then grunted, clearly still unconvinced but too tired to argue further. You were stuck with them anyway. It wasn’t like you were going to run off. “Fine. But...” He shot you one last look before pushing back from the table and heading for the stairs. “We’re talking in the morning. No exceptions.”
You firmly nod, meeting his gaze as you reassure him once more.“Of course,” all you could muster was a small smile. As Bakugou disappeared up the stairs, the weight of what you had to do settled over you. Once the room was quiet, you let out a long breath and reached for the crystal pendant around your neck, feeling its cool surface against your fingertips. The soft glow within it flickered to life as you concentrated, your breath wavering as you prepared to make the call.
The pendant warmed in your palm, and after a few moments, the familiar voice crackled through the connection. Holding it tightly, you closed your eyes and whispered an incantation, your voice barely a whisper. After using this gadget so much, it’s something you know how to use fully. The crystal warmed in your palm, and after a moment, the faint outline of a figure began to shimmer within its depths.
"Come on, answer…" you murmured to yourself, feeling the magic connect.
Then that calm voice speaks up.
“Been a while since I heard from you, what’s going on?”
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a/n: this chapter took a while to make, idk why i was struggling so much but enjoy!! @chocogoldie @devils-adversary @l0kisbitch @miikii0 @onlyisaa @sleepisfortheweakpooh @helena-way07 @enzstr @qardasngan @rednicotine @318474hello @d4rlinxs @sgtrjivc @ky0ruuu @naliarefira @katsukispubies @kitsunetori
notes: strangers to lovers, fantasy universe, bakusquad, slow burn, fluff, slight angst, draconic language and culture, d&d inspired, other tags to be added ...
status: ongoing - this will be updated weekly, every Tuesday.
pairing: barbarian!Katsuki Bakugou x fem!reader
section list
part one
↬ synopsis:
Niniel’s Veil was a living forest, where magic breathed through every twisting root and whispered from every shadow. The paths shifted like mirages, and the trees watched with knowing eyes, testing intruders with illusions. The real question wasn’t just about surviving its ever-changing terrain, but whether you and this stubborn barbarian could navigate its trials without snapping each other’s necks in the process.
part two
↬ synopsis:
Originally constructed centuries ago during the reign of Edresa’s first dynasty, the catacombs were intended to be a grand resting place for the city’s nobles, warriors, and scholars. It was meant to honour the great figures of Edresa’s past, a labyrinthine vault of remembrance carved deep into the earth. However, during the reign of King Sindiel, the catacombs became more than just a burial ground..
part three [upcoming]
↬ synopsis:
part four [upcoming]
↬ synopsis:
comment if you want to be in the taglist for this series
notes: strangers to lovers, fantasy universe, bakusquad, slow burn, fluff, slight angst, draconic language and culture, other tags to be added ...
status: ongoing - this will be updated weekly, every Tuesday.
part list
pairing: barbarian!Katsuki Bakugou x fem!reader
chapter list
chapter 11
↬ excerpt:
You had carved out a place among them. The journey ahead was probably going to be long and dangerous, but being with them made it feel doable. It all felt a little less intimidating with them. And if you were going to suffer, at least it would be with them right?
chapter 12
↬ excerpt:
Bakugou’s brow arched at your words, trying to form some sort of image of this mysterious friend of yours. “He better not just be another pain in the ass.” He grumbled, adjusting the equipment on his back as he trudged on.
“You’re the pain in the ass Bakugou.”
chapter 13
↬ excerpt:
chapter 14
↬ excerpt:
chapter 15
↬ excerpt:
chapter 16
↬ excerpt:
chapter 17
↬ excerpt:
chapter 18
↬ excerpt:
chapter 19
↬ excerpt:
chapter 20
↬ excerpt:
comment if you want to be in the taglist for this series
pairing: barbarian! katsuki bakugou x reader (female)
summary: a bard approaches a lone barbarian in search for a story to tell. Who could have known that the barbarian end up being such a romantic tale.
notes: fantasy au, fluff, strangers to lovers, slow burn, bakusquad, barbarian bakugou, end of part one
word count: 9.6k
part list
part one: chapter list
a/n: i'm back from hiatus! my bad for leaving without posting chapter 10 whoops
The mornings were becoming a familiar routine. It was almost always either you or Bakugou who rose first, both mainly due to habit. There had only been one morning when Kirishima beat you both to it, but that was only because he couldn’t sleep. The early hours were quiet, the world still cloaked in the soft hues of dawn. Today was no different. You stirred from your bedroll, blinking away the last remnants of sleep as the first light of day filtered through the tall trees.
As you sat up, your eyes met Bakugou’s across the camp. The dragonborn barbarian was already awake, just as you’d expected. You’ve seen him every morning up and early. He was sitting by the fire, the embers still glowing faintly from the night before, casting a soft light over his features. Was it weird to admit that you’ve come to recognise how he sat? His posture, that quiet intensity in him during these still, solitary moments. You inched closer to him, curious to what he was up to this morning.
Bakugou held the artefact in his hands— a cold, metallic orb etched with ancient markings that seemed to shift and shimmer in the morning light. It was the third artefact in his quest, three out of the six needed to complete the set. The journey to retrieve it had been gruelling (but even that was a tame word to describe it). It had been filled with traps, challenges, and near-misses, but Bakugou had finally claimed it, wrestling it from the heart of Niniel’s Veil. He had fought hard for it, and now it rested in his grasp, a tangible reminder of how far he had come.
His fingers traced the intricate symbols engraved on the orb, each line and curve telling a story only the ancient artisans who crafted it could fully understand. Bakugou’s grip was firm, his thumb brushing over the cold metal almost absentmindedly, as though testing its weight and meaning.
You stood, stretching out the stiffness in your limbs before making your way over to the fire. The early morning air was crisp, carrying with it the faint scent of dew and woodsmoke. As you approached, Bakugou glanced up, his crimson eyes meeting yours. There was no need for words; you both had gotten used to the unspoken rhythm that had developed between you. A rhythm of mutual respect and begrudging trust.
“Morning,” you said, settling onto a log opposite him, the warmth of the fire seeping into your waking bones. You watched as Bakugou continued to study the orb, deep in thought.
“Morning,” he grunted in reply, not sparing you a glance. The draconic prince continued to study the orb in his hand, analysing every curl and curve of the metal. It was a while before he said anything. When he did, you couldn’t help but jolt slightly from the sudden intrusion of silence. “Three down, three to go,” he muttered, more to himself than to you. His voice was quiet as he contemplated the progress of his journey. Even after collecting the third artefact, his body exuded tension of the challenges still ahead. He couldn’t relax.
You nodded, your attention drifting to the orb in his hands. The markings glinted faintly, reflecting the firelight. “You’re halfway there,” you said, a note of cautious optimism in your voice. “You think the next one will be any easier?”
Bakugou’s grip tightened slightly on the orb, tensing from your question. You could already tell his answer from his sudden tension. “Nothing’s ever easy,” he replied, greeting you with a familiar stubbornness. “But it doesn’t matter. We’ll get them. One way or another.” He turned the orb over in his hands, staring at it with determination that could burn someone. The answer was so… him. You weren’t surprised by his answer, you were starting to wonder why you bothered asking. “I can’t wait to bring them home.”
You’ve grown to admire the conviction in his words whenever he voiced about his journey. Despite the endless trials and the constant bickering, you had come to commend Bakugou’s unyielding determination. He was annoyingly relentless, always pushing forward no matter what and refusing to back down from danger. You couldn’t stand him at times but it was his drive that kept you all going, even when the odds were stacked against you. Not everyone was as unrelenting as him. His kind of persistence was personalised to him.
You watched in silence, captivated by the way Bakugou’s fingers traced the intricate markings etched into the cold metal surface of the orb. Each line, each symbol, held a story older than any of you could truly fathom. And it seemed, Bakugou was stubbornly attempting to decipher it. As his thumb brushed over the ancient carvings, you could see a rare softness in his usually intense gaze.
Bakugou’s lips moved as he whispered the words, his gravelly accent peeking through. “Irthir,” he murmured, the Draconic language rolling off his tongue with a quiet, dulcet cadence. “Knowledge…” he bothered to translate it for you, even if you understood.
He paused, turning the orb slightly to get a better glimpse of the words. You could hear him muttering to himself, reading the text with his expression momentarily unguarded. “Isk,” he continued, his voice even softer, almost as if he was speaking to the orb itself. “Star…”
He glanced up at you, turning the orb so you could see the carvings. Honestly, you were surprised he was bothering to turn the artefact around to show you these carvings. You recognized the words after studying it for a moment. Cursive strokes of Draconic carved into the orb with a delicate precision. The words weren’t directions or instructions, they were descriptors that signified what the orbs truly represented. Knowledge. Stars. They were symbols of wisdom and the cosmos itself.
“Knowledge… and star,” you repeated, letting the meaning sink in. It wasn’t just about finding a path or unlocking a hidden location. These orbs represented core elements of a forgotten legacy. “It’s not just a key,” you said quietly, your gaze fixed on the intricate script. Expressions you couldn’t fully understand but there was an inkling of an understanding. “These words… they’re markers of what the orbs stand for. Knowledge. Stars. It’s like each one embodies a different aspect of what the planetarium was built to honour.”
Bakugou nodded, wishing that he could unlock its secrets just by sheer will. “Yeah. These orbs are more than just a way in— they’re pieces of our legacy. They’re what made the dragonborn strong, we were connected to the stars.”
He had told you about his quest in rare, hushed moments. How the dragonborn planetarium, a sacred place of learning and celestial study, had been sealed for 130 years when the keys got stolen. It was a place where the ancient dragonborn had gathered to commune with the stars, where rulers had sought guidance, and where the history of their kind had been recorded in the constellations above. Without the orbs, the planetarium remained locked, its secrets lost to time and the stars unreachable.
For Bakugou, it was a deeply personal journey. Finding these artefacts wasn’t just about unlocking an ancient structure; it was about restoring what had been taken from his people. It was about reclaiming a throne that had been left empty, a legacy interrupted.
You watched him, seeing the fire in him as his hands cradled the orb. He couldn’t wait to return these pieces to their rightful place, to stand beneath the vast, celestial dome of the planetarium and see the stars as his ancestors once did. To take his throne onced he’s pieced his history together.
“So these orbs… they’re like the heart of the planetarium,” you said, your voice filled with newfound understanding. “They represent what was lost. The wisdom, the connection to the cosmos. You’re not just unlocking a building— you’re unlocking everything your people stood for.”
Bakugou’s grip on the orb tightened, thinking of his people and how they’ve been robbed of their history. “Damn right,” he said with his voice low, enunciated with a sharp bite. “These are our birthright. I’m going to return them, and when I do, the planetarium will be whole again. Our history won’t be some forgotten story. It’ll be there for everyone to see.”
Bakugou’s words hung in the air, heavy with the weight of his resolve. This quest was always more than just a pursuit of ancient artefacts. Anyone could go on an artefact hunt. But this was about reclaiming a lost legacy, restoring a piece of history that had been stolen from his people. And with every artefact recovered, that goal felt a little more within reach. You watched as he carefully tucked the orb away, being careful as he was handling something infinitely precious to him.
“Once you have all six,” you said, your voice breaking the contemplative silence, “you’ll finally be able to see what the planetarium holds. The stars, the history… everything your ancestors left behind. It’ll all be there, waiting for you.”
Bakugou’s hard stare flicked to you,the sharpness in his eyes softened. He couldn’t help but soften even a little when it came to this topic. “It’s not just about seeing it,” he replied, his voice quieter now, almost reflective. Much different to the tone he had before. “It’s about bringing it back. Making sure everyone knows what it means to be dragonborn. The strength, the wisdom… we’ve lost too much of it. But once I open that planetarium, it won’t be lost anymore.” He was doing it for his people, for the generations that had come before him and those that would follow. It was a weighty responsibility, one that Bakugou wore like armour.
Bakugou stared into his drink, his expression guarded but slowly relaxing. The bard watched him carefully, fingers tracing idle patterns on the rim of his mug, his curiosity evident beneath the calm facade. The still tavern was their backdrop with the real focus was on the story Bakugou was recounting— the one that had held the bard’s attention from the moment it began. Bakugou was surprised he was still telling the bard this story, but something kept him going. In fact, he felt compelled to continue, as if stopping now would leave too much unsaid.
“So,” the bard said, his voice edged with the kind of genuine interest that made his living. “After you got the artefact, and you were standing there with the orb… What was going through your mind?”
Bakugou’s eyes flicked up, meeting the bard’s. He leaned back slightly, the chair creaking under his weight, and took a slow sip from his mug before setting it down with a soft thunk.
“What was going through my mind?” Bakugou echoed, as if testing the question. His gaze drifted to the inn’s door, as if his home was just beyond it. “I was thinking about what it all means— the planetarium, the legacy, my people… It’s not just about finding these damn artefacts. It’s about everything they represent. The stars. Our history. It’s about making sure our story doesn’t end up as some forgotten tale.”
The bard listened intently, his fingers tapping lightly on the table. “And unlocking the planetarium will change that? Bring it all back?”
Bakugou’s grip tightened on his mug, his knuckles white against the dark wood. “I knew it would. My people lost something when those keys went missing— our connection to what made us strong, what made us dragonborn. The planetarium isn’t just some relic. It’s the core of our history. For all of us.”
The bard leaned in, his interest piqued by the raw conviction in Bakugou’s voice. “You talk about it like it’s more than just a throne you’re after. Like it’s personal.”
Bakugou’s eyes flashed, a brief but unmistakable flicker of vulnerability crossing his hardened expression. “It is personal,” he admitted, his tone laced with an edge that spoke of years of unspoken burdens. “I wasn’t just doing it for the throne. I did it because it’s what my people deserve. They need to remember what we are. Who we are. And I was the only one who could make that happen.”
The bard nodded slowly, absorbing every word. He’d heard countless stories of quests, of battles fought and won, but there was something uniquely fierce in the way Bakugou spoke. Something that went beyond simple duty or ambition. “So in the story, you’ve got three of the six artefacts now,” the bard said, wanting to hear more of this tale. “That’s halfway. But it sounds like the hardest part is still ahead.”
Bakugou nodded, his gaze distant. “Yeah. The next ones did not come easy. But I was ready to tear the damn world apart if I had to.”
“But we had to get out of the Veil first.”
As the group pressed on, the dense trees of Niniel’s Veil slowly began to thin, and the path ahead grew clearer, though the air still carried the weight of the ancient magic they had encountered. The journey out was quieter than usual, their thoughts lingering on the trials they had faced and the artefact now in their possession. While you and Bakugou had definitely reached a place of mutual trust and understanding, it hadn’t put an end to the arguments. Not that it surprised you. The bickering was still as frequent as ever, a constant push and pull that seemed to be woven into the fabric of your relationship.
You led the group through the winding forest path, Bakugou’s presence was a constant at your side, his eyes scanning every twist and turn with an intensity that never seemed to waver. But his commentary? That was a different story.
“You’re taking us the long way around,” Bakugou muttered, crossing his arms as he shot you a pointed look. “We could’ve cut through that clearing back there and saved time. You’re dragging us around in circles.”
You rolled your eyes, barely glancing back at him. “Oh, really? And what, you think you know this place better than I do now? I’ve seen that clearing. It’s full of brambles and unstable ground. But hey, if you want everyone tangled up or falling on their asses, go for it.”
Bakugou scoffed, irritation flashing across his face. “Yeah, yeah, keep talking. I’m just saying, there’s always a faster way if you dared.”
“Oh– Just–” you interrupted, cutting him off before he could finish. You stopped in your tracks, turning to face him with a fierce look. “Just go to the back and quit disturbing me. Shut up and trust me.”
For a moment, Bakugou looked like he was about to argue. But then he saw that look in your gaze, and after a tense pause, he let out a frustrated grunt. You weren’t going to deal with his squabble today, he could tell by your burning stare. “Tch, fine. But if you screw this up, don’t come crying to me.”
With a begrudging roll of his eyes, Bakugou fell back, letting you take the lead. His presence was still palpable behind you, an imposing force of energy and frustration, but he didn’t push further. You felt his eyes on your back, but he stayed silent, allowing you to navigate the winding path ahead.
“Good,” you muttered under your breath, more to yourself than to him, as you refocused on the task at hand. You led the group deeper into the woods, the tension from the heated exchange slowly dissipating, replaced by the familiar rhythm of the journey. The forest was quieter now, the soft rustle of leaves and distant calls of unseen creatures mingling with the steady crunch of footsteps.
Mina slipped into step beside Bakugou, her movements fluid and quick as she matched his pace. She glanced at him, catching the subtle signs of frustration still simmering beneath his composed exterior. Bakugou’s eyes were fixed ahead, scanning every part of the woods and the path with relentless focus. But Mina knew him. She noticed the telltale tension in his shoulders, the way his grip on his scimitar tightened every so often, as if bracing for the next challenge.
Mina knew Bakugou well enough to see that he wasn’t just annoyed— he was wound up, caught between his instinct to charge ahead and the realisation that, for now, he had to follow. There was a restlessness in him that the slow, careful pace of the group did little to soothe, and it showed in every subtle clench of his jaw, every glance that lingered a second too long on the back of your head. Sure, he’s been letting you lead this whole time, but it still bothered him from time to time.
“You good?” Mina asked, her voice light with genuine concern. She nudged him gently with her elbow, trying to draw him out of whatever storm was brewing in his mind. “You’ve been gripping that scimitar like you’re about to fight the trees.”
Bakugou huffed, though the corner of his mouth twitched. “Just thinking,” he muttered, “This whole place puts me on edge. Too damn quiet.”
Mina could understand his unease. This forest has not been a fun ride in the slightest. “Yeah, I get it. But hey, you know she’s got this. We’re in good hands, even if it’s not the fastest route.”
Bakugou’s sights switched to Mina, still slightly annoyed by the whole ordeal. “Yeah, yeah, I know,” he grumbled, loosening his grip slightly. Not wanting to get nagged by Mina.
She glanced at him, her smile suddenly taking a teasing tone. “So,” she began, breaking the comfortable silence that had settled between them, “I’ve been thinking... We should ask her to join us for the rest of the journey.”
Bakugou’s response was immediate and predictable, his brows furrowing as he let out a sharp scoff. “Hell no. You think I want her tagging along, running her mouth at every turn? She’s got a real attitude problem. Always got something to say, always pushing my buttons.”
Mina rolled her eyes, undeterred by his initial resistance. “Oh, come on, Katsuki. You know she’s been more than just useful. She’s saved our skins more than once, and you can’t deny she’s a damn good navigator. She’s got skills we need.”
Bakugou huffed, his gaze narrowing as he looked straight ahead, refusing to meet Mina’s eyes. “Yeah, and she’s also stubborn, always talking back, thinking she knows better. Doesn’t listen, always questioning every move. She’s a pain in the ass, Mina.”
Mina suppressed a smile, knowing that behind all his grumbling, there was something else. “And yet, you haven’t told her to get lost, have you? If she were really that much trouble, you would’ve sent her packing a long time ago. You don’t keep people around who aren’t worth it.”
Bakugou’s jaw tightened, and for a moment, he said nothing, his mind replaying the countless moments where you had proved yourself, the sharp exchanges that somehow kept him on his toes. You were frustrating, no doubt, but he couldn’t deny your competence or the way you challenged him, forcing him to think in ways he often avoided.
“She’s not useless,” he finally conceded, though his tone was grudging. “But that doesn’t mean I want her tagging along the whole way. She’s a handful, always questioning everything I do. It’s annoying.”
Mina nudged him again, a wide grin on her face. She was starting to convince him. “Yeah, well, maybe you need someone like that around. Keeps you from getting too comfortable. Besides, it’s not like you two haven’t figured out how to work together. She’s got guts, Katsuki, and you know it. You might not say it out loud, but you respect her. And if you’re being honest, you’d miss having her around.”
Bakugou let out a frustrated sigh, knowing Mina was right but unwilling to give in so easily. “Fine, we’ve got a decent working relationship,” he grumbled. “But that doesn’t mean I’d miss her and I definitely am not looking forward to more of her lip.”
Bakugou glanced at Mina, his expression conflicted. He couldn’t deny that the cartographer had earned his trust, that they’d developed a rhythm, a way of working together that, despite the arguments, it felt… right. But letting her in further, admitting that he valued her presence? That was a harder pill to swallow.
“She’s trouble,” he muttered, but his tone had softened slightly, still stubborn in fully admitting everything Mina was saying. “But she gets the job done. Doesn’t back down, even when things get rough.”
Mina seized the opportunity, her voice gentle but insistent. “Exactly. And that’s why we need her. Look, I know she pushes your buttons, but she also pushes you. We’re not going to get the rest of those artefacts without some serious help. And deep down, you know she’s more than capable of handling what’s ahead.”
Bakugou scowled, the fire in his eyes flickering with annoyance. Did Mina always have to say shit that stung true? He hated to admit it, but there was something about you that had grown on him, even if it was hidden beneath layers of irritation and sharp-tongued banter. You were resilient, ‘not an idiot’, and had a knack for navigating both the land and the dynamics of the group.
“She’s a pain,” he repeated, but this time it lacked the bite. Seemed like he couldn’t continue to insult you. His tone was faltering. Thankfully, you weren’t there to hear it. “But fine. She can stick around, as long as she knows I’m not here to babysit.”
Mina grinned, patting him on the shoulder. “You’re not fooling anyone, Katsuki. We both know you’d rather have her with us than not. And I think, deep down, you kind of like that she doesn’t take your crap.”
“You’re delusional,” Bakugou scoffed, his lips twitching into a faint smirk. “She better not get in my way, that’s all,” he grumbled, but there was no real malice behind his words— only the implied agreement that you were, in some infuriating way, exactly what the team needed.
Mina smiled to herself, knowing that despite his complaints, Bakugou had already made up his mind. She had seen the way he watched the cartographer when she wasn’t looking. The way he listened to her ideas even as he grumbled about them. There was a part of him, buried deep under all the mindless quarrels, that valued her presence more than he’d ever say. As they continued on, Mina glanced back, watching you navigate the path with your usual air of confidence. It was clear: the journey was far from over, but with you by their side, they were stronger for it, even if Bakugou would never quite say it out loud.
“So,” Mina began, her tone casual but with a teasing flair, “you’ll ask her to come along?”
Bakugou kept his gaze forward, his jaw tightening briefly as he considered her question. He didn’t answer right away, and for a moment, it seemed like he might deflect, but then he sighed, running a hand through his hair in a rare gesture of hesitation. “Yeah,” he said finally, his voice gruff but firm. “I’ll ask her.”
The navigation through the forest had been going surprisingly well, each step forward feeling more assured as the group followed the winding path you’d set. The dense trees of Niniel’s Veil seemed less menacing, and the way ahead was clearer with every turn. That is, until a faint, melodic giggle rippled through the air, light and playful, yet unsettlingly out of place.
You froze, instincts immediately on high alert, as the sound echoed faintly around you. The others paused too, their eyes darting through the trees. Before anyone could react, a flurry of movement caught your attention. Small figures darted between the trunks, their forms barely visible— a blur of shimmering wings, trailing stardust-like glimmers that faded almost as quickly as they appeared.
“They’re fae,” you muttered, recognizing the mischievous energy that hung in the air. “Stay sharp. They’re trying to mess with us.”
The fae were everywhere and nowhere all at once, flitting just out of sight, their presence marked only by flashes of colour and the occasional burst of soft, teasing laughter. They moved like wisps of smoke, intangible and unpredictable, using illusions to bend the light and twist the terrain around you. A path that seemed clear one moment would shift subtly, leading you into a thicker underbrush or looping back in impossible ways.
Mina squinted, trying to keep her focus. “Great, just what we needed. Tricksters with magic. I can’t even tell what’s real anymore.”
Bakugou’s frustration flared, his gaze snapping to where one of the fae had momentarily materialised— a small, ethereal figure with gleaming eyes and a taunting grin. He lunged, but the fae vanished in an instant, leaving only a swirl of sparkling dust behind. “Damn pests,” he growled, glaring at the empty space. “They’re just trying to throw us off. We need to keep moving.”
But the fae weren’t making it easy. Every step seemed to shift the forest around you, the trees warping, paths intertwining and unravelling in a kaleidoscope of illusions. What looked like a straightforward route would suddenly transform, becoming a tangled mess of thorns or leading the team in circles. The laughter of the fae filled the air, light and musical, yet carrying an edge of mockery as they watched your growing frustration.
“Everyone, focus!” you called out, trying to cut through the chaos. “They’re using illusions to mess with our senses. Don’t trust what you see.”
Kirishima stepped forward. “We’ve got to stay close. They’re trying to separate us.”
Denki stumbled, catching himself on a tree that shifted under his touch, the bark melting into a cascade of leaves that swirled around him. “This is ridiculous,” he muttered, eyes wide as he tried to regain his bearings. “It’s like the whole forest is playing tricks on us.”
As the fae circled the group, their shimmering forms flickering in and out of sight, their presence was more than just mischievous— they were curious, playful, and far too clever. They darted close, their translucent wings shimmering like dragonfly scales in the dim light, and with each pass, they whispered teasing comments that were sharp as thorns yet laced with a childlike amusement.
One of the fae, with iridescent emerald eyes and a mischievous grin, flitted close to Bakugou, eyes sparkling with interest. “So fierce, so angry,” it giggled, its voice high and airy, like the chime of a distant bell. “Trying to hide the fear behind all that rage, are we? Such a temper! Are you sure you’re not just a walking tantrum in armour?”
Bakugou’s scowl deepened, his fists clenching at his sides as he glared at the fae. “Tch, get out of my face,” he snapped, swinging his hand through the air where the fae had been, only for it to dart away, laughing. His eyes flashed with irritation at the insult and teases. These little glorified mosquitoes.
Another fae, pale as moonlight with wings that shimmered like silver, hovered near Mina, its gaze flitting from her hair to her bright eyes. “Ah, aren’t you adorable,” it cooed, almost mockingly. “Laughing so no one sees the cracks, is that it? But we see you, little spark. You are… scared.”
Mina’s smile faltered for just a second, her expression tightening as she swatted at the air. “Oh, shut up,” she muttered, her cheerfulness wavering as the fae’s words struck a nerve. She forced her usual grin back into place, but there was a slight tremble in her hands, betraying the anxiety the fae had so easily picked up on.
Twin fae, delicate and quick, buzzed around Sero and Denki, its laughter soft and teasing. “Oh, these two,” it sang, darting between them. “Always joking, always pretending nothing bothers you. But the forest sees through your jokes.”
One of the twins circled around Sero while the other drifted toward Denki, gliding through the air with ease. The air seemed to grow colder with their presence, the playful tone of their voices laced with a sharp blade. Mockery wrapped in silk.
The fae closest to Denki tilted its head, golden eyes gleaming with cruel delight as it hovered inches from his face. “Oh, look at this one,” it purred, voice sweet like a lullaby gone wrong. “So full of jokes and chatter… but we hear the trembling in your thoughts. Afraid you’ll mess up again, aren’t you? That this time, you won’t be enough. That they’ll all see you’re just pretending to know what you’re doing.”
Denki flinched slightly, his hand tightening around the hilt of his blade, but the fae only laughed, the sound airy and maddening.
Meanwhile, the second twin circled Sero with a slow, deliberate elegance, studying him with an unsettling smile. “And you…” it hummed, drifting behind his shoulder. “The one who’s always watching from the edge, pretending you’re fine. Tell us, what scares you more: being left behind, or realizing no one would notice if you were?”
The words hung in the air like smoke, curling into the spaces between heartbeats. Sero’s jaw tensed, but he said nothing, eyes narrowing as the fae continued to orbit him.
The twins giggled in unison, their laughter echoing like wind through hollow trees, before darting away in a swirl of glowing wings. Leaving the sting of their words behind like thorns under the skin.
Denki tried to laugh it off, but it came out strained, his eyes darting nervously. “Yeah, yeah, whatever,” he said, though his smile didn’t quite reach his eyes. Sero shrugged, but his demeanour had faltered, his gaze flickering uneasily to the shifting shadows around them. The fae’s words lingered, uncomfortably close to the truth.
Another fae, her wings a vibrant swirl of blues and purples, hovered near Kirishima, inspecting him with admiration and playful disdain. “The brave one,” she murmured, her tone half-mocking, half-genuine. “So strong, so determined— but does the armour hide a heart that doubts? What happens when courage meets the unknown?”
Kirishima’s jaw clenched, his eyes narrowing as he straightened his posture. “I’m not afraid of anything,” he said firmly, though his voice wavered slightly. He brushed off the comment, but his fingers gripped his weapon a little tighter, as if holding onto his courage with all his strength.
Then, a fae with iridescent wings and a knowing smile circled closer to you, her gaze piercing, like she could see straight through your thoughts. “And the guide,” she said, her voice a whisper that felt like it brushed against your skin. “Always thinking, always planning, always trying to stay one step ahead. Clever guide… so many maps, yet none for your own heart.”
You stiffened, trying to maintain your composure under the weight of her scrutiny. But the fae wasn’t finished. She leaned in closer, her eyes glinting with a sharp, almost predatory curiosity. “You’re hiding something, aren’t you?” she continued, her tone both playful and accusatory, like a cat toying with a mouse. “Something deeper, something you don’t want the others to see. Secrets are heavy, you know. How long before they weigh you down?”
Your breath hitched slightly, and you could feel the heat rising in your chest as if the fae’s words had reached into the most guarded corners of your mind. You forced yourself to hold her gaze, even as you felt a flicker of something cold and uncomfortable stir within you.
You stiffened, trying to ignore the way the fae’s words crawled under your skin. “I’m not here to play games with you,” you hissed sharply, your voice edged with a defensiveness you couldn’t quite hide. You turned away, focusing on the task at hand, but the fae’s question lingered, echoing in your mind like a challenge.
The fae’s comments were light, almost playful, but each word held a mirror to the insecurities and fears that lingered beneath the surface of every traveller. They flitted about, delighting in the discomfort their observations caused, their laughter echoing through the clearing. It was clear they weren’t just here to disrupt— they were here to unravel, to play with the minds of those who dared to tread on their sacred ground.
The fae continued their game, dancing just beyond reach, their playful taunts making it clear they were enjoying this disruption. You could feel the tension rising among your group, the fae’s influence pushing everyone to the edge of their patience.
Bakugou clenched his fists as he scanned the flickering illusions. A vein popping out from his head as their tricks were starting to give him headaches. “This is getting old. We need a way to see past their damn tricks.”
As the group struggled to navigate the illusions, it became clear that brute force or trying to outsmart the fae might not be enough. The laughter and teasing voices of the fae only grew louder, as if mocking your every attempt to push forward. Realising the futility of fighting magic with sheer willpower, you decided to try a different tactic: negotiation.
You stopped, holding up a hand to signal the group to pause. “These tricks are only going to get worse if we keep pushing through,” you said, glancing at each of your companions. “Fae don’t just mess with people for fun— they do it because they want something. We need to figure out what they want.”
Mina nodded thoughtfully, her eyes darting around to the faint glimpses of fae darting in and out of sight. “So, what do we do? Offer them something?”
Bakugou’s brow furrowed, clearly not thrilled with the idea of negotiating. “We don’t have time for games. Why should we play nice with these pests?”
You turned to Bakugou, meeting his frustrated gaze with calm resolve. “Because they’re in control here, and they won’t let us leave until they get what they want. Let me try something.”
You stepped forward, raising your voice to address the playful fae. “Let’s talk,” you called out, your tone firm but not hostile. “We’re just trying to pass through. We don’t want any trouble.”
There was a moment of stillness, the forest seeming to hold its breath. Then, a faint giggle echoed, followed by a shimmering figure emerging from the shadows. The fae, small and ethereal with wings that sparkled like dew in sunlight, hovered in front of you, filled with mischievousness.
“What makes you think we care about what you want?” the fae chimed, its voice musical and teasing. “This is our forest. You’re the trespassers.”
You nodded, acknowledging the fae’s point. “I understand. And we don’t mean to disrespect your home. But we’re on an important journey, and we can’t afford to be delayed. Maybe there’s something we can offer in return for safe passage?”
The fae’s eyes gleamed, clearly intrigued by your offer. It danced closer, studying you with keen interest. “Hmm… mortals always have something to trade, don’t they? A secret, a memory, a promise, a trinket. What will you offer?”
You reached into your pack and pulled out a small, intricately carved trinket— something you’d kept for situations like this. It was a charm infused with a touch of magic, not particularly powerful but crafted with care. Fae valued craftsmanship, especially if it was something unique or imbued with personal significance.
Taking a deep breath, you stepped forward, holding the charm out in the open. “What about this?,” you asked, your voice clear, “we mean no harm and seek only safe passage. In exchange, I offer this charm, crafted with care. Let us leave your domain in peace, and this will be yours.”
For a moment, there was silence. The air seemed to hold its breath, the forest stilling around you. Then, with a faint rustle, the fae began to appear, their small, ethereal forms flitting into view. They hovered around you, their eyes gleaming with curiosity as they examined the charm you held.
One of the fae, slightly larger and more elaborately adorned than the others, fluttered closer, its gaze fixed on the charm. It circled you, considering the offer. The others watched intently, their playful energy momentarily subdued.
Finally, the lead fae spoke, its voice a delicate whisper that seemed to echo in the air. “A fair trade traveller. Your sincerity is noted. We accept your offering.”
With that, the fae reached out, a delicate hand taking the charm from you. As soon as the charm passed into its possession, the oppressive weight of the illusions lifted. The path ahead of you became clear once more, the twisting trees returning to their natural state. The fae, true to their word, began to fade back into the shadows, their mischief satisfied.
“Thank you,” you said, offering a slight bow. The fae giggled softly, a sound more lighthearted than mocking this time, before disappearing entirely.
Bakugou crossed his arms, still looking a bit grumpy but clearly relieved. “Didn’t think they’d go for it,” he muttered, though there was a grudging respect in his tone.
You smiled slightly, feeling the tension ease as you turned back to the group. “Sometimes, it’s not about fighting back. It’s about knowing when to strike a deal.”
With the fae’s mischief finally at bay, the group pressed on, leaving the magical tricksters behind. The trinket was gone, but so were the faeries. As long as you acknowledged their world, they would, in turn, allow you safe passage through it. The journey through should now be smooth.
Once the fae finally fluttered away, their laughter fading into the depths of the forest, an uneasy silence settled over the group. The air felt heavier, as if the playful taunts had left an invisible weight on everyone’s shoulders. The lingering effects of the fae’s words clung to each of you like a thin, uncomfortable fog, difficult to shake off.
Mina let out a shaky breath, her usual cheerfulness dampened as she hugged her arms around herself. “Those little pests really know how to get under your skin,” she murmured, trying to hide the tension in her voice. She glanced around at the others, her eyes searching for reassurance but finding the same shaken expressions reflected back at her.
Kirishima ran a hand through his hair, his normally bright and determined demeanour dulled. “They’re like… they just see right through you,” he admitted, his voice uncharacteristically soft. “All the things you try to push aside, all the stuff you don’t talk about— they just… pull it out of you.” He frowned, clenching and unclenching his fists as if trying to work the feeling out of his system.
Denki and Sero exchanged uneasy glances, their usual easygoing camaraderie muted. Denki kicked at the ground, his smile nowhere to be seen. “Yeah, no kidding. It’s like they were reading my mind or something,” he muttered, a nervous laugh escaping him that sounded hollow. “I didn’t think they’d… I mean, it’s just jokes, right? But…”
Sero nodded with an edge of discomfort. “They’re not just messing with us. It’s like they’re trying to pull us apart from the inside.” He rubbed the back of his neck, as it would rub away this ache he felt. “It’s unsettling. I feel like I’m still hearing their voices.”
Bakugou, standing slightly apart from the group, was scowling at the empty space where the fae had been. He looked more irritated than shaken. “Damn nuisances,” he grumbled, obviously annoyed that the fae had messed with the group like this. “Don’t let them get to you. They were just trying to mess with our heads.” But even as he spoke, his gaze was distant, his own words echoing in his mind.
You felt the uneasy energy radiating off your companions, the quiet vulnerability that hung in the air. The fae had probed deeper than anyone expected, pulling at the frayed edges of doubts and fears that normally stayed buried. There was a rawness in the group now, a sense of exposure that left everyone feeling a little off balance, as if the ground beneath you wasn’t quite solid anymore.
“Let’s keep moving,” you said, trying to inject some steadiness into your voice. “They’re gone now, and we’ve got ground to cover.” But your own words felt thin, strained. You couldn’t quite shake the fae’s whispers, and judging by the expressions around you, neither could anyone else.
The group nodded, subdued but still determined. You all pressed on, moving forward in a tense but unified silence. The usual, easy conversations were absent, replaced by quiet reflection as everyone wrestled with the fae’s parting words. The forest, though seemingly calm, felt different now. More alive, more aware, and you couldn’t help but feel as if you were being watched, your innermost thoughts still laid bare.
The group pressed on, shaken but determined to leave the fae’s taunts behind. By the time you reached a small clearing, the sky had darkened, and the weariness from the day’s events had settled heavily on everyone’s shoulders. Without a word, you all began to set up camp, the familiar motions of pitching tents and gathering firewood providing a welcome distraction from the lingering discomfort.
Once again, the fire crackled to life, casting warm light against the deepening shadows of the forest. As everyone settled around the fire, there was a quiet tension hanging in the air, an unspoken weight left by the fae’s piercing comments. Bakugou had taken his place at the edge of the clearing, arms crossed as he kept a vigilant watch, his eyes trained on the surrounding woods. You, too, sat slightly apart, pretending to be engrossed in tending to the fire, though your mind was still spinning with the fae’s words.
The rest of the group gathered closer, huddling around the fire’s warmth as the chill of the night set in. For a while, no one spoke, the silence between them heavy with the fae’s echoes. Finally, it was Mina who broke the quiet, her voice soft and hesitant.
“I still can’t believe how easily they got under our skin,” she admitted, her gaze fixed on the flickering flames. “They just knew… exactly what to say.”
Denki sighed, rubbing his hands together as if trying to ward off more than just the cold. “Yeah, it’s like they could read every thought we’ve tried to ignore. I hate to admit it, but they were right about me… It’s just… easier that way.”
Sero placed a comforting hand on Denki’s shoulder, giving it a reassuring squeeze. “Hey, man. You don’t have to explain yourself. We trust you and your skills.”
Mina nodded, her expression softening. “Yeah, Denki. And, Sero, you’re always the one keeping us grounded, even when it feels like everything’s upside down. You guys are way stronger than you give yourselves credit for.”
Kirishima let out a deep breath, his normally bright eyes dimmed with the weight of the fae’s words. “They weren’t wrong about me either. I try so hard to be the strong one, but… there’s always that little voice that wonders if I’m really good enough. If I’m actually strong enough to protect everyone.”
Mina scooted closer to Kirishima, bumping him gently with her shoulder. “You are, Kiri. You’re always the first one to jump in when things get tough, not just because you’re strong, but because you care.”
Sero chimed in, his voice steady and sincere. “And Mina, you’re the one who keeps us going when things feel impossible. You never lose hope and that pushes us.”
Mina smiled, though it was tinged with a bittersweet acknowledgment of her own doubts. “Thanks, guys. It’s just… it’s hard to keep that up sometimes, you know? But hearing it from you means a lot.”
The group fell into a comfortable silence, the mutual support easing the tension bit by bit. They were bruised, but not broken, and the quiet words of reassurance passed between them like a warm, healing balm. Each confession, each moment of vulnerability, felt like a thread weaving them closer together, binding their fears into something stronger than before. From your spot by the fire, you watched them, feeling a pang of envy and gratitude all at once. Seeing your companions open up, comfort each other, and push back against the insecurities that had been so cruelly exposed, you felt a flicker of hope.
As the night wore on, the camp settled into a calm, the sting of the fae’s words slowly fading into the background. The doubts and insecurities the fae had stirred still lingered, but the bonds between you all were undeniable, each moment of shared struggle and quiet reassurance weaving a stronger thread between you. The team’s laughter, though softer now, had returned, warmed by the comfort of knowing that they had each other.
Even though you and Bakugou hadn’t voiced your own vulnerabilities, there was an unspoken respect from the others. They didn’t push or pry, understanding that some battles were fought in silence. It was enough that you were all here, together, each person offering their support in the ways they knew best. There was a mutual understanding that didn’t need words. Neither of you were ready to share, and that was okay.
One by one, they drifted off to their bedrolls, carrying with them the warmth of their friends’ words, letting the crackling fire and the cool night air lull them into a well-deserved rest. Except for you, of course. Like many nights, sleep eluded you, your mind too full of thoughts to allow rest. And the words of the fae didn’t help. You stared up at the sky, the stars winking down at you through the canopy of trees, their light soft and distant. But tonight, someone else was awake.
Suddenly, a tuft of blond hair came into your vision, and before you could react, Bakugou’s face hovered over you, his intense gaze locking onto yours as you instinctively sat up. His expression was unreadable in the dim light, but there was something quiet in his eyes. More contemplative than usual.
“Can’t sleep?” you asked softly, your voice barely louder than a whisper.
Bakugou grunted, his usual brusque manner softened by the lateness of the hour. “You either, huh?” he replied, his voice low and rough, like gravel shifting underfoot.
You shook your head, a small smile tugging at your lips. “Nope. Guess we’re both stuck with our thoughts tonight.”
For a moment, neither of you moved, the silence stretching out between you. But then, as if wordlessly deciding on the same course of action, you both stood, brushing off the loose dirt and leaves from your clothes. Without another word, Bakugou jerked his head towards the trees, a silent invitation for a walk. You nodded in agreement, and the two of you set off into the night, leaving the warmth of the campfire behind.
This part of the forest was different at night. Calmer, almost serene, with the sounds of nocturnal creatures quietly rustling through the undergrowth. The moonlight filtered through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the ground, and the air was cool against your skin, carrying the faint scent of damp earth and pine.
You walked side by side, the soft crunch of leaves beneath your boots the only sound between you. Neither of you spoke, but the silence wasn’t uncomfortable. It was a shared stillness that gave you both a moment of much needed peace.
Eventually, the trees began to thin, revealing a small, hidden pond nestled in the heart of the forest. The surface of the water was smooth as glass, reflecting the moon and stars like a mirror. Willows draped their long, trailing branches over the water, their leaves whispering softly in the breeze. It was a place of quiet beauty, untouched by the day’s trials and the lingering tension from the fae’s encounter.
Bakugou stopped at the edge of the pond, his gaze fixed on the water as he took a deep breath. You followed his lead, settling down beside him on the soft grass. The willow branches swayed gently above, creating a natural curtain that made the world beyond seem distant and unimportant.
After a while, you glanced at Bakugou, catching the way his expression had softened in the moonlight, the usual hard lines of his face relaxed in the peaceful surroundings. You settled beside him, drawing your knees up to your chest as you stared at the pond, the reflections of the stars shimmering just out of reach. For a long moment, neither of you spoke, content to simply exist in the shared stillness. The silence was comfortable, wrapped in the unspoken understanding that had grown between you over time.
Finally, Bakugou broke the quiet, his voice softer than you were used to hearing. “You don’t have to say anything about earlier. About… what those fae said. It’s none of their damn business anyway.”
You glanced at him, surprised by the blunt but genuine reassurance in his words. There was no demand for explanation, no pressure to open up. Just a simple acknowledgment that whatever you were carrying, it was yours to hold, or to release, on your own terms.
“Same goes for you,” you replied, feeling thankful for his concern. “You don’t owe anyone an explanation. Not me, not them. We all have our stuff. And it’s okay if we don’t want to talk about it.”
Bakugou’s eyes flicked to yours, he was appreciative in his gaze. “Yeah. Guess we’ve all got shit we’d rather keep to ourselves. But... it’s good to know we’re not the only ones.”
There is another moment of silence before he awkwardly breaks it. “But…” he said gruffly, with a trim of gentleness. Shifting to make eye contact with you, despite how weird he felt about it. “I’m not one for talking about… that kind of crap. But if you ever need to… you know… I’ll listen.”
He was trying. The realisation brought a smile to your face. You nodded, appreciating the offer for what it was. “Thanks. But honestly, I’m okay. Sometimes it’s just… better to keep some things to yourself.”
“Yeah,” Bakugou agreed, his gaze drifting back to the pond. “Just means you’re handling it your way. That’s not a bad thing.”
You nodded, feeling a quiet sense of relief settle over you. The fae had tried to pry open wounds you weren’t ready to share, but here, sitting by the pond with Bakugou, you felt no need to explain yourself. It was comforting.
The night wrapped around you like a familiar cloak, the willows whispering softly as the two of you sat in silence. The pond shimmered gently under the moon’s light, and for a moment, the weight of your unspoken fears didn’t feel so heavy. You were both here, under the same sky, gazing into the still waters, silently easing each other's restless thoughts.
The peaceful silence between you stretched on, the soft rustle of the willow branches and the gentle ripple of the pond the only sounds in the quiet night. But then, Bakugou broke the stillness with a question, still staring out over the water.
“So, what are you gonna do after all this?” he asked, not looking at you directly. “When we’re out of this damn forest?”
You glanced at him, surprised by the sudden question. For a moment, you considered your answer, feeling the weight of the question more than you’d expected. “Honestly? I’m not sure,” you admitted, your tone light but tinged with uncertainty. “I don’t really have any big plans. I’ll probably just go back to taking commissions— mapping out new places, charting paths that haven’t been drawn yet. There’s always something out there that needs a map, and people pay well for a good one.”
Bakugou nodded, though his expression tightened slightly, as if he’d expected something different. “So, just back to the same old routine, huh?” he said, his voice carrying a hint of sarcasm. “Figured you’d be aiming for something bigger, considering all the lip you’ve given me about my plans.”
You raised an eyebrow, catching the snark in his tone. “And what’s wrong with that? Not everyone’s on a grand quest, you know. Some of us just like having a job that pays the bills.”
Bakugou rolled his eyes, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. “Yeah, yeah, I get it. Big important cartographer, mapping the unknown, blah, blah, blah. But don’t you ever get bored of the same old thing? You’re good at this— better than good. Hell, you’ve kept us from getting lost more times than I can count.”
You raised an eyebrow, caught off guard by his sincerity. “Is this you admitting you’d be lost without me?”
“Chaubask vur kepeshk karshoji,” he shot back with some draconic slang, clearly already frustrated with you. You always had to step on his toes. After a moment, he spoke again, his tone was lighter. “I’m just saying, you’ve got more to offer than drawing maps for strangers.”
A moment of silence hung between you, the air thick with unspoken thoughts. You were trying to understand what he was trying to say. But he was going to spell it out… once he stopped hesitating. Bakugou let out a defeated sigh as he finally gathered himself to speak. “Why don’t you stick around?” he asked, almost sounding like he regretted asking already. “Join us. We’re not done yet, and you’re already in this deep. Might as well see it through to the end.”
You blinked, caught off guard by the suggestion. “Join you? On your adventure? You sure you want to deal with me tagging along, Bakugou? I’m pretty sure I annoy the hell out of you.”
Bakugou shot you a sideways glare, but there was no real heat behind it. “You do annoy the hell out of me,” he admitted, crossing his arms over his chest. “But you’re not useless. You know your way around places, and you’re not afraid to stand your ground. Besides, we could use someone who can actually read a damn map.”
You smirked, raising an eyebrow at his reluctant compliment. “Wow, Bakugou, that’s almost sweet. If I didn’t know better, I’d think you were actually trying to be nice.”
Bakugou snorted, rolling his eyes. “I’m just stating the facts. Doesn’t mean I’m suddenly all warm and fuzzy.”
You chuckled, shrugging casually. “Yeah, yeah, I get it. But hey, I’ll take what I can get. And don’t worry— I’ll keep you from getting lost, even if it means dragging you by the ear the whole way.”
“Just think about it. Better than wandering around aimlessly looking for the next gig, right?” he muttered, almost dreading your answer. Were you going to say yes? Or would you reject the offer?
You tilted your head, considering his offer. “I don’t know, Bakugou. You really think you can handle me sticking around? I might drive you crazy.”
Bakugou rolled his eyes, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. “You already drive me crazy,” he shot back, his tone teasing. “Besides, if anyone’s gonna push my buttons, I’d rather it be someone who knows what they’re doing.”
You grinned, folding your arms as you leaned in slightly. “Oh, so you admit you like having me around, huh? Who knew you had a soft spot for the difficult ones?”
Bakugou snorted, but his smirk didn’t fade. “Don’t get it twisted, idiot. I just prefer my headaches to come from someone who actually knows how to pull their weight. Makes it worth the trouble.”
“Yeah, yeah, keep telling yourself that. Just don’t blame me when you end up regretting this.” You chuckled, shaking your head.
“Regret? Please. If I’ve put up with you this long, I’m pretty sure I can handle whatever else you’ve got.” Bakugou barked, his smirk still firmly in place.
You laughed, crossing your arms as you looked at him. “Big talk coming from the guy who nearly loses his temper every time I call him out. You sure you’re ready for more of that?”
Bakugou’s smirk widened, challenge and confidence all over his face. “Bring it on. You keep me on my toes, and I’d rather have you around than deal with idiots who don’t know what they’re doing. I know you’re not gonna back down, you’re stubborn as hell. ”
You paused, studying his face. The familiar scowl that had softened just enough to let something real slip through. “You’re not getting rid of me, huh?” you said, pretending to mull it over, though your mind was already made up.
He shrugged, trying to play it cool, but you could tell he was waiting for your answer. “Damn right. So what’s it gonna be?”
What could go wrong? What did you have to lose?
Just because you felt like it, you paused. Giving a moment for this to really settle before you answered. In time, you gave him a lopsided grin, finally letting the decision settle. “Alright, I’m in.”
Bakugou stilled for a moment, registering your acceptance. Registering that you would be coming along for the journey now. He chuckled under his breath, shaking his head as he leaned back against the willow tree. “Hope you’re ready for it, Sthyarli.”
“Tiamash.”
And with that, the decision was sealed, unspoken promises hanging in the cool night air. You and Bakugou remained there, the water reflecting the stars above, and for once, the future felt just a little less uncertain. Whatever came next… at least you knew that you had this tiamash to deal with.
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a/n: it's going to be part two soon eek!!! sorry this took soo long but i'm back guys, i swear @chocogoldie @devils-adversary @l0kisbitch @miikii0 @onlyisaa @sleepisfortheweakpooh @helena-way07 @enzstr @qardasngan @rednicotine @318474hello @d4rlinxs @sgtrjivc @ky0ruuu
